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Jin X, Wang S, Luo L, Yan F, He Q. Targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer: Potential for advancement. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116463. [PMID: 39102994 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers (GICs) are highly prevalent cancers that threaten human health worldwide. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has been reported to play a pivotal role in the carcinogenesis of GICs. Numerous interventions targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GICs are currently being tested in clinical trials with promising results. Unfortunately, there are no clinically approved drugs that effectively target this pathway. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the impact of clinical therapies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in GICs. By integrating data from bioinformatics databases and recent literature from the past five years, we examine the heterogeneous expression and regulatory mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin pathway genes and proteins in GICs. Specifically, we focus on expression patterns, mutation frequencies, and clinical prognoses to understand their implications for treatment strategies. Additionally, we discuss recent clinical trial efforts targeting this pathway. Understanding the inhibitors currently under clinical investigation may help optimize foundational research and clinical strategies. We hope that elucidating the current status of precision therapeutic stratification for patients targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway will guide future innovations in precision medicine for GICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xizhi Jin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, PR China
| | - Sijie Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China
| | - Lihua Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China.
| | - Fangjie Yan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, PR China.
| | - Qiaojun He
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China.
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2
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Song P, Gao Z, Bao Y, Chen L, Huang Y, Liu Y, Dong Q, Wei X. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:46. [PMID: 38886806 PMCID: PMC11184729 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01563-4] [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: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, encompassing development, tissue homeostasis, and cell proliferation. Under normal physiological conditions, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is meticulously regulated. However, aberrant activation of this pathway and downstream target genes can occur due to mutations in key components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, epigenetic modifications, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways. Consequently, these dysregulations contribute significantly to tumor initiation and progression. Therapies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling transduction have exhibited promising prospects and potential for tumor treatment. An increasing number of medications targeting this pathway are continuously being developed and validated. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the latest advances in our understanding of the role played by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and targeted therapy, providing valuable insights into acknowledging current opportunities and challenges associated with targeting this signaling pathway in cancer research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Song
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Zirui Gao
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yige Bao
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, China
| | - Li Chen
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuhe Huang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Dong
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, China.
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
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3
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Choudhary S, Singh MK, Kashyap S, Seth R, Singh L. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Pediatric Tumors: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:700. [PMID: 38929279 PMCID: PMC11201634 DOI: 10.3390/children11060700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The evolutionarily conserved Wnt signaling has a significant and diverse role in maintaining cell homeostasis and tissue maintenance. It is necessary in the regulation of crucial biological functions such as embryonal development, proliferation, differentiation, cell fate, and stem cell pluripotency. The deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling often leads to various diseases, including cancer and non-cancer diseases. The role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in adult tumors has been extensively studied in literature. Although the Wnt signaling pathway has been well explored and recognized to play a role in the initiation and progression of cancer, there is still a lack of understanding on how it affects pediatric tumors. This review discusses the recent developments of this signaling pathway in pediatric tumors. We also focus on understanding how different types of variations in Wnt signaling pathway contribute to cancer development and provide an insight of tissue specific mutations that lead to clinical progression of these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Choudhary
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (S.C.); (R.S.)
| | | | - Seema Kashyap
- Department of Ocular Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India;
| | - Rachna Seth
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (S.C.); (R.S.)
| | - Lata Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (S.C.); (R.S.)
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Yu Z, Deng P, Chen Y, Lin D, Liu S, Hong J, Guan P, Chen J, Zhong ME, Chen J, Chen X, Sun Y, Wang Y, Wang P, Cai Z, Chan JY, Huang Y, Xiao R, Guo Y, Zeng X, Wang W, Zou Y, Yu Q, Lan P, Teh BT, Wu X, Tan J. Pharmacological modulation of RB1 activity mitigates resistance to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2304619121. [PMID: 38289962 PMCID: PMC10861914 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2304619121] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Resistance to neoadjuvant chemotherapy leads to poor prognosis of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), representing an unmet clinical need that demands further exploration of therapeutic strategies to improve clinical outcomes. Here, we identified a noncanonical role of RB1 for modulating chromatin activity that contributes to oxaliplatin resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). We demonstrate that oxaliplatin induces RB1 phosphorylation, which is associated with the resistance to neoadjuvant oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in LARC. Inhibition of RB1 phosphorylation by CDK4/6 inhibitor results in vulnerability to oxaliplatin in both intrinsic and acquired chemoresistant CRC. Mechanistically, we show that RB1 modulates chromatin activity through the TEAD4/HDAC1 complex to epigenetically suppress the expression of DNA repair genes. Antagonizing RB1 phosphorylation through CDK4/6 inhibition enforces RB1/TEAD4/HDAC1 repressor activity, leading to DNA repair defects, thus sensitizing oxaliplatin treatment in LARC. Our study identifies a RB1 function in regulating chromatin activity through TEAD4/HDAC1. It also provides the combination of CDK4/6 inhibitor with oxaliplatin as a potential synthetic lethality strategy to mitigate oxaliplatin resistance in LARC, whereby phosphorylated RB1/TEAD4 can serve as potential biomarkers to guide the patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoliang Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Deng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yufeng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dezheng Lin
- Department of Endoscopic Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shini Liu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinghan Hong
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke–National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
| | - Peiyong Guan
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke–National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore138672, Singapore
| | - Jianfeng Chen
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min-er Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaochuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yichen Sun
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yali Wang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peili Wang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zerong Cai
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jason Yongsheng Chan
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenome, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore169610, Singapore
| | - Yulin Huang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaoyu Guo
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian Zeng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenyu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Zou
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke–National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore138672, Singapore
| | - Ping Lan
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Tean Teh
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke–National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore169857, Singapore
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenome, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore169610, Singapore
| | - Xiaojian Wu
- Department of General Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong510655, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Tan
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong510060, People’s Republic of China
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenome, Division of Medical Sciences, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore169610, Singapore
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Peters XQ, Elamin G, Aljoundi A, Alahmdi MI, Abo-Dya NE, Sidhom PA, Tawfeek AM, Ibrahim MAA, Soremekun O, Soliman MES. Therapeutic Path to Triple Knockout: Investigating the Pan-inhibitory Mechanisms of AKT, CDK9, and TNKS2 by a Novel 2-phenylquinazolinone Derivative in Cancer Therapy- An In-silico Investigation Therapy. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2024; 25:1288-1303. [PMID: 37581526 DOI: 10.2174/1389201024666230815145001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blocking the oncogenic Wnt//β-catenin pathway has of late been investigated as a viable therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer. This involves the multi-targeting of certain members of the tankyrase-kinase family; Tankyrase 2 (TNKS2), Protein Kinase B (AKT), and Cyclin- Dependent Kinase 9 (CDK9), which propagate the oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. METHODS During a recent investigation, the pharmacological activity of 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro- 3H-quinazolin-4-one was repurposed to serve as a 'triple-target' inhibitor of TNKS2, AKT and CDK9. Yet, the molecular mechanism that surrounds its multi-targeting activity remains unanswered. As such, this study aims to explore the pan-inhibitory mechanism of 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro-3H-quinazolin- 4-one towards AKT, CDK9, and TNKS2, using in silico techniques. RESULTS Results revealed favourable binding affinities of -34.17 kcal/mol, -28.74 kcal/mol, and -27.30 kcal/mol for 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro-3H-quinazolin-4-one towards TNKS2, CDK9, and AKT, respectively. Pan-inhibitory binding of 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro-3H-quinazolin-4-one is illustrated by close interaction with specific residues on tankyrase-kinase. Structurally, 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro- 3H-quinazolin-4-one had an impact on the flexibility, solvent-accessible surface area, and stability of all three proteins, which was illustrated by numerous modifications observed in the unbound as well as the bound states of the structures, which evidenced the disruption of their biological function. Prediction of the pharmacokinetics and physicochemical properties of 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro-3H-quinazolin-4- one further established its inhibitory potential, evidenced by the favourable absorption, metabolism, excretion, and minimal toxicity properties. CONCLUSION The following structural insights provide a starting point for understanding the paninhibitory activity of 2-(4-aminophenyl)-7-chloro-3H-quinazolin-4-one. Determining the criticality of the interactions that exist between the pyrimidine ring and catalytic residues could offer insight into the structure-based design of innovative tankyrase-kinase inhibitors with enhanced therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xylia Q Peters
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4001, South Africa
| | - Ghazi Elamin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4001, South Africa
| | - Aimen Aljoundi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4001, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Issa Alahmdi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 7149, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nader E Abo-Dya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 7149, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Peter A Sidhom
- Department of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Tawfeek
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud A A Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4001, South Africa
- Chemistry Department, Computational Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Minia University, Minia, 61519, Egypt
| | - Opeyemi Soremekun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mahmoud E S Soliman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4001, South Africa
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Sagathia V, Patel C, Beladiya J, Patel S, Sheth D, Shah G. Tankyrase: a promising therapeutic target with pleiotropic action. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:3363-3374. [PMID: 37338576 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02576-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Tankyrase 1 (TNKS1) and tankyrase 2 (TNKS2) enzymes belong to the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) family participates in process of poly-ADP-ribosylation of different target proteins which leads to ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation. Tankyrases are also involved in the pathophysiology of many diseases, especially cancer. Their functions include cell cycle homeostasis (primarily in mitosis), telomere maintenance, Wnt signaling pathway regulation, and insulin signaling (particularly GLUT4 translocation). Studies have implicated that genetic changes, mutations in the tankyrase coding sequence, or up regulation and down regulation of tankyrase are reflected in the numerous disease conditions. Investigations are pursued to develop putative molecules that target tankyrase in various diseases such as cancer, obesity, osteoarthritis, fibrosis, cherubism, and diabetes, thereby providing a new therapeutic treatment option. In the present review, we described the structure and function of tankyrase along with its role in different disease conditions. Furthermore, we also presented cumulative experimental evidences of different drugs acting on tankyrase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vrunda Sagathia
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Chirag Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India.
| | - Jayesh Beladiya
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Sandip Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Devang Sheth
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Gaurang Shah
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
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Park WJ, Kim MJ. A New Wave of Targeting 'Undruggable' Wnt Signaling for Cancer Therapy: Challenges and Opportunities. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081110. [PMID: 37190019 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Wnt signaling activation is frequently observed in many cancers. The mutation acquisition of Wnt signaling leads to tumorigenesis, whereas the inhibition of Wnt signaling robustly suppresses tumor development in various in vivo models. Based on the excellent preclinical effect of targeting Wnt signaling, over the past 40 years, numerous Wnt-targeted therapies have been investigated for cancer treatment. However, Wnt signaling-targeting drugs are still not clinically available. A major obstacle to Wnt targeting is the concomitant side effects during treatment due to the pleiotropic role of Wnt signaling in development, tissue homeostasis, and stem cells. Additionally, the complexity of the Wnt signaling cascades across different cancer contexts hinders the development of optimized targeted therapies. Although the therapeutic targeting of Wnt signaling remains challenging, alternative strategies have been continuously developed alongside technological advances. In this review, we give an overview of current Wnt targeting strategies and discuss recent promising trials that have the potential to be clinically realized based on their mechanism of action. Furthermore, we highlight new waves of Wnt targeting that combine recently developed technologies such as PROTAC/molecular glue, antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), and anti-sense oligonucleotides (ASO), which may provide us with new opportunities to target 'undruggable' Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Jung Park
- Department of Life Science, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Jong Kim
- Department of Life Science, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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8
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Kim DY, Kwon YJ, Seo WY, Kim UI, Ahn S, Choi SM, Bang HT, Kim K, Kim JS. Tankyrase-selective inhibitor STP1002 shows preclinical antitumour efficacy without on-target toxicity in the gastrointestinal tract. Eur J Cancer 2022; 173:41-51. [PMID: 35849876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tankyrase inhibition stabilises AXINs and antagonises the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in adenomatous polyposis coli (APC)-mutated colorectal cancer (CRC), suggesting that tankyrase is a potential therapeutic target for APC-mutated CRC. However, clinical trials on reported tankyrase inhibitors have been severely limited by on-target toxicity in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Herein, we report a new tankyrase-selective inhibitor, STP1002, having preclinical antitumour efficacy without on-target toxicity in APC-mutated CRC models. METHODS STP1002 was developed and characterised using in vitro and in vivo functional studies; its pharmacokinetics, antitumour efficacy and toxicity were evaluated in vivo. RESULTS STP1002 showed potent, selective inhibition of tankyrase 1/2 but not of members of the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1/2 (PARP1/2). STP1002 exerted antitumour activity by stabilising AXINs and antagonising the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in a subset of APC-mutated CRC cell lines but not in inhibitor-resistant cells and APC-wild-type CRC cell lines. STP1002 showed favourable pharmacokinetic profiles for oral administration once daily. STP1002 inhibited tumour growth of APC-mutated CRC xenograft animal models but not of APC-wild type models in a dose-dependent manner. The antitumour efficacy of STP1002 was confirmed using APC-mutated CRC patient-derived tumour xenograft models. STP1002 showed no significant on-target toxicity in the GI tract compared to G007-LK, which shows severe ileum toxicity in preclinical animal models. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that STP1002, a novel, orally active tankyrase inhibitor, shows preclinical antitumour efficacy without on-target toxicity in the GI tract. Our data provide a rationale for a clinical trial on STP1002 as a potential tankyrase-targeted drug in patients with APC-mutated CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Young Kim
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Ju Kwon
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, South Korea; Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Uk-Il Kim
- ST Pharm Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
| | | | | | | | | | - Jae-Sung Kim
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, South Korea; Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.
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Yu M, Yang Y, Sykes M, Wang S. Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Tankyrases as Prospective Therapeutics for Cancer. J Med Chem 2022; 65:5244-5273. [PMID: 35306814 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c02139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tankyrases are multifunctional poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerases that regulate diverse biological processes including telomere maintenance and cellular signaling. These processes are often implicated in a number of human diseases, with cancer being the most prevalent example. Accordingly, tankyrase inhibitors have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutics. Since the discovery of XAV939 and IWR-1 as the first tankyrase inhibitors over two decades ago, tankyrase-targeted drug discovery has made significant progress. This review starts with an introduction of tankyrases, with emphasis placed on their cancer-related functions. Small-molecule inhibitors of tankyrases are subsequently delineated based on their distinct modes of binding to the enzymes. In addition to inhibitors that compete with oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) for binding to the catalytic domain of tankyrases, non-NAD+-competitive inhibitors are detailed. This is followed by a description of three clinically trialled tankyrase inhibitors. To conclude, some of challenges and prospects in developing tankyrase-targeted cancer therapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfeng Yu
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Yuchao Yang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Matthew Sykes
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
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10
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Xu C, Xu Z, Zhang Y, Evert M, Calvisi DF, Chen X. β-Catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:154515. [PMID: 35166233 PMCID: PMC8843739 DOI: 10.1172/jci154515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling is one of the main genetic alterations in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Comprehensive genomic analyses have revealed that gain-of-function mutation of CTNNB1, which encodes β-catenin, and loss-of-function mutation of AXIN1 occur in approximately 35% of human HCC samples. Human HCCs with activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway demonstrate unique gene expression patterns and pathological features. Activated Wnt/β-catenin synergizes with multiple signaling cascades to drive HCC formation, and it functions through its downstream effectors. Therefore, strategies targeting Wnt/β-catenin have been pursued as possible therapeutics against HCC. Here, we review the genetic alterations and oncogenic roles of aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling during hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, we discuss the implication of this pathway in HCC diagnosis, classification, and personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanrui Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diego F Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
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11
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Leenders RGG, Brinch SA, Sowa ST, Amundsen-Isaksen E, Galera-Prat A, Murthy S, Aertssen S, Smits JN, Nieczypor P, Damen E, Wegert A, Nazaré M, Lehtiö L, Waaler J, Krauss S. Development of a 1,2,4-Triazole-Based Lead Tankyrase Inhibitor: Part II. J Med Chem 2021; 64:17936-17949. [PMID: 34878777 PMCID: PMC8713164 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Tankyrase 1 and 2
(TNKS1/2) catalyze post-translational modification
by poly-ADP-ribosylation of a plethora of target proteins. In this
function, TNKS1/2 also impact the WNT/β-catenin and Hippo signaling
pathways that are involved in numerous human disease conditions including
cancer. Targeting TNKS1/2 with small-molecule inhibitors shows promising
potential to modulate the involved pathways, thereby potentiating
disease intervention. Based on our 1,2,4-triazole-based lead compound 1 (OM-1700), further structure–activity relationship
analyses of East-, South- and West-single-point alterations and hybrids
identified compound 24 (OM-153). Compound 24 showed picomolar IC50 inhibition in a cellular (HEK293)
WNT/β-catenin signaling reporter assay, no off-target liabilities,
overall favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion
(ADME) properties, and an improved pharmacokinetic profile in mice.
Moreover, treatment with compound 24 induced dose-dependent
biomarker engagement and reduced cell growth in the colon cancer cell
line COLO 320DM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shoshy Alam Brinch
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway.,Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Sven T Sowa
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Enya Amundsen-Isaksen
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway.,Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Albert Galera-Prat
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Sudarshan Murthy
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | | | | | | | - Eddy Damen
- Symeres, Kerkenbos 1013, 6546 BB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anita Wegert
- Symeres, Kerkenbos 1013, 6546 BB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marc Nazaré
- Medicinal Chemistry, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Campus Berlin Buch, Robert-Roessle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lari Lehtiö
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Jo Waaler
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway.,Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway.,Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
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12
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Wu J, Crowe DL. PARP5B is required for nonhomologous end joining during tumorigenesis in vivo. Mol Carcinog 2021; 61:85-98. [PMID: 34710250 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP) act as DNA damage sensors that produce poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) chains at double-strand breaks, facilitating the recruitment of repair factors. Cancers with homologous recombination defects are sensitive to small molecule PARP inhibitors. Despite PARP5B gene copy number changes in many cancers, the effects of this genetic alteration on tumor phenotype are largely unknown. To better understand this clinical finding, we characterized a PARP5B null mutation in a carcinogen-induced in vivo head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) model. Reduced PARP5B expression inhibited tumor growth, induced primary tumor differentiation and apoptosis, and inhibited cell proliferation and metastasis. Loss of PARP5B expression-induced ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3 related (ATR) activation and depleted the cancer stem cell fraction. PARP5B null tumor cells lacked 53BP1+ double-strand break foci, ATM activation, and p53 induction compared to PARP5B+/+ cancers. PARP5B null SCC expresses a multiprotein complex containing PML, pRPA, Rad50, Rad51, XRCC1, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and Mcm2, suggesting an HR-mediated repair mechanism at DNA replication foci. Low doses of etoposide combined with the PARP5B inhibitor XAV939 induced senescence and apoptosis in human SCC lines. NBS1 overexpression in these cells inhibited the effects of low-dose etoposide/XAV939 treatment. Our results indicate that PARP5B inhibition is new targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianchun Wu
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - David L Crowe
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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13
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Poltronieri P, Miwa M, Masutani M. ADP-Ribosylation as Post-Translational Modification of Proteins: Use of Inhibitors in Cancer Control. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10829. [PMID: 34639169 PMCID: PMC8509805 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the post-translational modifications of proteins, ADP-ribosylation has been studied for over fifty years, and a large set of functions, including DNA repair, transcription, and cell signaling, have been assigned to this post-translational modification (PTM). This review presents an update on the function of a large set of enzyme writers, the readers that are recruited by the modified targets, and the erasers that reverse the modification to the original amino acid residue, removing the covalent bonds formed. In particular, the review provides details on the involvement of the enzymes performing monoADP-ribosylation/polyADP-ribosylation (MAR/PAR) cycling in cancers. Of note, there is potential for the application of the inhibitors developed for cancer also in the therapy of non-oncological diseases such as the protection against oxidative stress, the suppression of inflammatory responses, and the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This field of studies is not concluded, since novel enzymes are being discovered at a rapid pace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palmiro Poltronieri
- Institute of Sciences of Food Productions, National Research Council of Italy, CNR-ISPA, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Masanao Miwa
- Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama 526-0829, Japan;
| | - Mitsuko Masutani
- Department of Molecular and Genomic Biomedicine, CBMM, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
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14
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Neiheisel A, Kaur M, Ma N, Havard P, Shenoy AK. Wnt pathway modulators in cancer therapeutics: An update on completed and ongoing clinical trials. Int J Cancer 2021; 150:727-740. [PMID: 34536299 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays an essential role in the initiation and progression of various types of cancer. Besides, the Wnt pathway components have been established as reliable biomarkers and potential targets for cancer therapy. Wnt signaling is categorized into canonical and noncanonical pathways. The canonical pathway is involved in cell survival, proliferation, differentiation and migration, while the noncanonical pathway regulates cell polarity and migration. Apart from its biological role in development and homeostasis, the Wnt pathway has been implicated in several pathological disorders, including cancer. As a result, inhibiting this pathway has been a focus of cancer research with multiple targetable candidates in development. In this review, our focus will be to summarize information about ongoing and completed clinical trials targeting various Wnt pathway components, along with describing current and emerging Wnt targeted therapies. In addition, we will discuss potential opportunities and associated challenges of inhibiting Wnt signaling for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Neiheisel
- College of Pharmacy, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, California, USA
| | - Manpreet Kaur
- College of Pharmacy, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, California, USA
| | - Nancy Ma
- College of Pharmacy, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, California, USA
| | - Patty Havard
- Kaweah Health Foundation, Kaweah Health, Visalia, California, USA
| | - Anitha K Shenoy
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, California, USA
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15
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Parsons MJ, Tammela T, Dow LE. WNT as a Driver and Dependency in Cancer. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:2413-2429. [PMID: 34518209 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The WNT signaling pathway is a critical regulator of development and adult tissue homeostasis and becomes dysregulated in many cancer types. Although hyperactivation of WNT signaling is common, the type and frequency of genetic WNT pathway alterations can vary dramatically between different cancers, highlighting possible cancer-specific mechanisms for WNT-driven disease. In this review, we discuss how WNT pathway disruption contributes to tumorigenesis in different organs and how WNT affects the tumor cell and immune microenvironment. Finally, we describe recent and ongoing efforts to target oncogenic WNT signaling as a therapeutic strategy. SIGNIFICANCE: WNT signaling is a fundamental regulator of tissue homeostasis and oncogenic driver in many cancer types. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of WNT signaling in cancer, particularly the complexities of WNT activation in distinct cancer types, its role in immune evasion, and the challenge of targeting the WNT pathway as a therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie J Parsons
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Tuomas Tammela
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lukas E Dow
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York. .,Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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16
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Buchstaller HP, Anlauf U, Dorsch D, Kögler S, Kuhn D, Lehmann M, Leuthner B, Lodholz S, Musil D, Radtki D, Rettig C, Ritzert C, Rohdich F, Schneider R, Wegener A, Weigt S, Wilkinson K, Esdar C. Optimization of a Screening Hit toward M2912, an Oral Tankyrase Inhibitor with Antitumor Activity in Colorectal Cancer Models. J Med Chem 2021; 64:10371-10392. [PMID: 34255518 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Constitutive activation of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, in most cases driven by inactivation of the tumor suppressor APC, is a hallmark of colorectal cancer. Tankyrases are druggable key regulators in these malignancies and are considered as attractive targets for therapeutic interventions, although no inhibitor has been progressed to clinical development yet. We continued our efforts to develop tankyrase inhibitors targeting the nicotinamide pocket with suitable drug-like properties for investigating effects of Wnt pathway inhibition on tumor growth. Herein, the identification of a screening hit series and its optimization through scaffold hopping and SAR exploration is described. The systematic assessment delivered M2912, a compound with an optimal balance between excellent TNKS potency, exquisite PARP selectivity, and a predicted human PK compatible with once daily oral dosing. Modulation of cellular Wnt pathway activity and significant tumor growth inhibition was demonstrated with this compound in colorectal xenograft models in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Buchstaller
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Uwe Anlauf
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Dieter Dorsch
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sarah Kögler
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Daniel Kuhn
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Martin Lehmann
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Birgitta Leuthner
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sara Lodholz
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Djordje Musil
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Daniela Radtki
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Corinna Rettig
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Claudio Ritzert
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Felix Rohdich
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Richard Schneider
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ansgar Wegener
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Weigt
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Kai Wilkinson
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christina Esdar
- Merck KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
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17
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Bayle E, Svensson F, Atkinson BN, Steadman D, Willis NJ, Woodward HL, Whiting P, Vincent JP, Fish PV. Carboxylesterase Notum Is a Druggable Target to Modulate Wnt Signaling. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4289-4311. [PMID: 33783220 PMCID: PMC8172013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway is critically important for a number of cellular processes in both development and adult mammalian biology. This Perspective will provide a summary of current and emerging therapeutic opportunities in modulating Wnt signaling, especially through inhibition of Notum carboxylesterase activity. Notum was recently shown to act as a negative regulator of Wnt signaling through the removal of an essential palmitoleate group. Inhibition of Notum activity may represent a new approach to treat disease where aberrant Notum activity has been identified as the underlying cause. Reliable screening technologies are available to identify inhibitors of Notum, and structural studies are accelerating the discovery of new inhibitors. A selection of these hits have been optimized to give fit-for-purpose small molecule inhibitors of Notum. Three noteworthy examples are LP-922056 (26), ABC99 (27), and ARUK3001185 (28), which are complementary chemical tools for exploring the role of Notum in Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott
D. Bayle
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Fredrik Svensson
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Benjamin N. Atkinson
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - David Steadman
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Nicky J. Willis
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Hannah L. Woodward
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Paul Whiting
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Jean-Paul Vincent
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Paul V. Fish
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
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18
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Tamiro F, Weng AP, Giambra V. Targeting Leukemia-Initiating Cells in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cancer Res 2021; 81:4165-4173. [PMID: 33414170 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The concept that different leukemias are developmentally distinct and, like in normal hematopoiesis, generated by restricted populations of cells named leukemia-initiating cells (LIC), is becoming more established. These cancer stem-like cells have been assumed to have unique properties, including the capability of self-renewing and giving rise to "differentiated" or non-LICs that make up the whole tumor. Cell populations enriched with LIC activity have been characterized in different hematopoietic malignancies, including human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Related studies have also demonstrated that LICs are functionally distinct from bulk cells and modulated by distinct molecular signaling pathways and epigenetic mechanisms. Here we review several biological and clinical aspects related to LICs in ALL, including (i) immunophenotypic characterization of LIC-enriched subsets in human and mouse models of ALL, (ii) emerging therapeutics against regulatory signaling pathways involved in LIC progression and maintenance in T- and B-cell leukemias, (iii) novel epigenetic and age-related mechanisms of LIC propagation, and (iv) ongoing efforts in immunotherapy to eradicate LIC-enriched cell subsets in relapsed and refractory ALL cases. Current conventional treatments do not efficiently eliminate LICs. Therefore, innovative therapeutics that exclusively target LICs hold great promise for developing an effective cure for ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tamiro
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies (ISBReMIT), Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Andrew P Weng
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Giambra
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies (ISBReMIT), Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
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19
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Kinosada H, Okada-Iwasaki R, Kunieda K, Suzuki-Imaizumi M, Takahashi Y, Miyagi H, Suzuki M, Motosawa K, Watanabe M, Mie M, Ishii T, Ishida H, Saito JI, Nakai R. The dual pocket binding novel tankyrase inhibitor K-476 enhances the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor by attracting CD8 + T cells to tumors. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:264-276. [PMID: 33520373 PMCID: PMC7840722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is associated with disease progression, is activated in many cancers. Tankyrase (TNKS) has received attention as a target molecule for Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibition. We identified K-476, a novel TNKS inhibitor, a dual pocket binder that binds to both the nicotinamide and ADP-ribose pockets. In a human colon cancer cell line, K-476 specifically and potently inhibited TNKS and led to stabilization of the Axin protein, resulting in Wnt/β-catenin pathway suppression. Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation was recently reported as a possible mechanism of ineffectiveness in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment. Because the Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation causes dendritic cell inactivation and suppresses chemokine production, resulting in a paucity of CD8+ T cells in tumor tissue, which is an important effector of ICIs. Thus, TNKS inhibitors may enhance the efficacy of ICIs. To examine whether K-476 enhances the antitumor effect of anti-PD-L1 antibodies, K-476 was administered orally with an anti-PD-L1 antibody to melanoma-bearing C57BL/6J mice. Although K-476 was ineffective as a monotherapy, it significantly enhanced the antitumor effect in combination with anti-PD-L1 antibody. In mice, intra-tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells was increased by combination treatment. K-476 upregulated the chemokine expression (e.g., Ccl3 and Ccl4), which attracted CD8+ T cells. This was considered to contribute to the increased CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, while the potential gastrointestinal toxicity of TNKS inhibitors has been reported, it was not observed at effective doses. Thus, K-476 could be an attractive therapeutic option to enhance the efficacy of ICIs.
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20
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Lai KKY, Kahn M. Pharmacologically Targeting the WNT/β-Catenin Signaling Cascade: Avoiding the Sword of Damocles. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 269:383-422. [PMID: 34463849 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
WNT/β-catenin signaling plays fundamental roles in numerous developmental processes and in adult tissue homeostasis and repair after injury, by controlling cellular self-renewal, activation, division, differentiation, movement, genetic stability, and apoptosis. As such, it comes as no surprise that dysregulation of WNT/β-catenin signaling is associated with various diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, neurodegeneration, etc. Although multiple agents that specifically target the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway have been studied preclinically and a number have entered clinical trials, none has been approved by the FDA to date. In this chapter, we provide our insights as to the reason(s) it has been so difficult to safely pharmacologically target the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway and discuss the significant efforts undertaken towards this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keane K Y Lai
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Michael Kahn
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
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21
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Almasoud N, Binhamdan S, Younis G, Alaskar H, Alotaibi A, Manikandan M, Alfayez M, Kassem M, AlMuraikhi N. Tankyrase inhibitor XAV-939 enhances osteoblastogenesis and mineralization of human skeletal (mesenchymal) stem cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16746. [PMID: 33028869 PMCID: PMC7541626 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73439-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tankyrase is part of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase superfamily required for numerous cellular and molecular processes. Tankyrase inhibition negatively regulates Wnt pathway. Thus, Tankyrase inhibitors have been extensively investigated for the treatment of clinical conditions associated with activated Wnt signaling such as cancer and fibrotic diseases. Moreover, Tankyrase inhibition has been recently reported to upregulate osteogenesis through the accumulation of SH3 domain-binding protein 2, an adaptor protein required for bone metabolism. In this study, we investigated the effect of Tankyrase inhibition in osteoblast differentiation of human skeletal (mesenchymal) stem cells (hMSCs). A Tankyrase inhibitor, XAV-939, identified during a functional library screening of small molecules. Alkaline phosphatase activity and Alizarin red staining were employed as markers for osteoblastic differentiation and in vitro mineralized matrix formation, respectively. Global gene expression profiling was performed using the Agilent microarray platform. XAV-939, a Tankyrase inhibitor, enhanced osteoblast differentiation of hBMSCs as evidenced by increased ALP activity, in vitro mineralized matrix formation, and upregulation of osteoblast-related gene expression. Global gene expression profiling of XAV-939-treated cells identified 847 upregulated and 614 downregulated mRNA transcripts, compared to vehicle-treated control cells. It also points towards possible changes in multiple signaling pathways, including TGFβ, insulin signaling, focal adhesion, estrogen metabolism, oxidative stress, RANK-RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand) signaling, Vitamin D synthesis, IL6, and cytokines and inflammatory responses. Further bioinformatic analysis, employing Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified significant enrichment in XAV-939-treated cells of functional categories and networks involved in TNF, NFκB, and STAT signaling. We identified a Tankyrase inhibitor (XAV-939) as a powerful enhancer of osteoblastic differentiation of hBMSC that may be useful as a therapeutic option for treating conditions associated with low bone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuha Almasoud
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Binhamdan
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, 11533, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghaydaa Younis
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanouf Alaskar
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Science Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Alotaibi
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Muthurangan Manikandan
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Musaad Alfayez
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Moustapha Kassem
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Molecular Endocrinology Unit (KMEB), Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Odense and University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Danish Stem Cell Center (DanStem), University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nihal AlMuraikhi
- Stem Cell Unit, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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22
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Bian J, Dannappel M, Wan C, Firestein R. Transcriptional Regulation of Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Colorectal Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092125. [PMID: 32961708 PMCID: PMC7564852 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway exerts integral roles in embryogenesis and adult homeostasis. Aberrant activation of the pathway is implicated in growth-associated diseases and cancers, especially as a key driver in the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Loss or inactivation of Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) results in constitutive activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which is considered as an initiating event in the development of CRC. Increased Wnt/β-catenin signaling is observed in virtually all CRC patients, underscoring the importance of this pathway for therapeutic intervention. Prior studies have deciphered the regulatory networks required for the cytoplasmic stabilisation or degradation of the Wnt pathway effector, β-catenin. However, the mechanism whereby nuclear β-catenin drives or inhibits expression of Wnt target genes is more diverse and less well characterised. Here, we describe a brief synopsis of the core canonical Wnt pathway components, set the spotlight on nuclear mediators and highlight the emerging role of chromatin regulators as modulators of β-catenin-dependent transcription activity and oncogenic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Bian
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Marius Dannappel
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Chunhua Wan
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence:
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23
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Badder LM, Hollins AJ, Herpers B, Yan K, Ewan KB, Thomas M, Shone JR, Badder DA, Naven M, Ashelford KE, Hargest R, Clarke AR, Esdar C, Buchstaller HP, Treherne JM, Boj S, Ramezanpour B, Wienke D, Price LS, Shaw PH, Dale TC. 3D imaging of colorectal cancer organoids identifies responses to Tankyrase inhibitors. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235319. [PMID: 32810173 PMCID: PMC7433887 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Wnt signalling pathway is required for tumour initiation and survival in the majority of colorectal cancers. The development of inhibitors of Wnt signalling has been the focus of multiple drug discovery programs targeting colorectal cancer and other malignancies associated with aberrant pathway activation. However, progression of new clinical entities targeting the Wnt pathway has been slow. One challenge lies with the limited predictive power of 2D cancer cell lines because they fail to fully recapitulate intratumoural phenotypic heterogeneity. In particular, the relationship between 2D cancer cell biology and cancer stem cell function is poorly understood. By contrast, 3D tumour organoids provide a platform in which complex cell-cell interactions can be studied. However, complex 3D models provide a challenging platform for the quantitative analysis of drug responses of therapies that have differential effects on tumour cell subpopulations. Here, we generated tumour organoids from colorectal cancer patients and tested their responses to inhibitors of Tankyrase (TNKSi) which are known to modulate Wnt signalling. Using compounds with 3 orders of magnitude difference in cellular mechanistic potency together with image-based assays, we demonstrate that morphometric analyses can capture subtle alterations in organoid responses to Wnt inhibitors that are consistent with activity against a cancer stem cell subpopulation. Overall our study highlights the value of phenotypic readouts as a quantitative method to asses drug-induced effects in a relevant preclinical model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luned M. Badder
- Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute (ECSCRI), Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Hollins
- Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute (ECSCRI), Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kuan Yan
- OcellO B.V., Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kenneth B. Ewan
- Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Mairian Thomas
- Cellesce Ltd, Cardiff Medicentre, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer R. Shone
- Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Delyth A. Badder
- Cellular Pathology Department, University Hospital for Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Marc Naven
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin E. Ashelford
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Hargest
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, CCMRC, Henry Wellcome Building, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Alan R. Clarke
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute (ECSCRI), Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Esdar
- Biopharma, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Research & Development, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - J. Mark Treherne
- Cellesce Ltd, Cardiff Medicentre, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Sylvia Boj
- Hubrecht Organoid Technology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Dirk Wienke
- Biopharma, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Research & Development, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Paul H. Shaw
- Velindre Cancer Centre, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Trevor C. Dale
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute (ECSCRI), Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
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24
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Wen X, Wu Y, Awadasseid A, Tanaka Y, Zhang W. New Advances in Canonical Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:6987-6998. [PMID: 32821165 PMCID: PMC7418153 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s258645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin-mediated signaling is a key pathway regulating tissue growth and development, and tumorigenesis, and has received increasing attention in recent years. In addition to participating in healthy tissue and organ development, ectopic activation of the pathway can cause a variety of tumors and other pathologies. The pathway plays a critical role in many processes such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer cell stemness. The importance of the Wnt signal is self-evident. This review describes the underlying mechanism of Wnt signaling pathway and highlights the latest findings on the relationship between Wnt signaling pathway and tumorigenesis. In addition, the potential relationship between miRNAs and Wnt signaling is presented. Furthermore, we discuss the intrinsic link between Wnt signaling and cancer cell stemness, which shed light on the malignant progression of tumor cells. Finally, cancer treatment strategies based on the canonical Wnt signaling pathway are summarized, hoping to help clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Wen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, People's Republic of China
| | - Annoor Awadasseid
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, People's Republic of China.,Center for Natural Products Research, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Yoshimasa Tanaka
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Molecular Medicine, Center for Medical Innovation, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan
| | - Wen Zhang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, People's Republic of China
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25
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Berishvili VP, Kuimov AN, Voronkov AE, Radchenko EV, Kumar P, Choonara YE, Pillay V, Kamal A, Palyulin VA. Discovery of Novel Tankyrase Inhibitors through Molecular Docking-Based Virtual Screening and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Studies. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143171. [PMID: 32664504 PMCID: PMC7397142 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Tankyrase enzymes (TNKS), a core part of the canonical Wnt pathway, are a promising target in the search for potential anti-cancer agents. Although several hundreds of the TNKS inhibitors are currently known, identification of their novel chemotypes attracts considerable interest. In this study, the molecular docking and machine learning-based virtual screening techniques combined with the physico-chemical and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity) profile prediction and molecular dynamics simulations were applied to a subset of the ZINC database containing about 1.7 M commercially available compounds. Out of seven candidate compounds biologically evaluated in vitro for their inhibition of the TNKS2 enzyme using immunochemical assay, two compounds have shown a decent level of inhibitory activity with the IC50 values of less than 10 nM and 10 μM. Relatively simple scores based on molecular docking or MM-PBSA (molecular mechanics, Poisson-Boltzmann, surface area) methods proved unsuitable for predicting the effect of structural modification or for accurate ranking of the compounds based on their binding energies. On the other hand, the molecular dynamics simulations and Free Energy Perturbation (FEP) calculations allowed us to further decipher the structure-activity relationships and retrospectively analyze the docking-based virtual screening performance. This approach can be applied at the subsequent lead optimization stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir P. Berishvili
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.P.B.); (A.E.V.); (E.V.R.)
| | - Alexander N. Kuimov
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Andrew E. Voronkov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.P.B.); (A.E.V.); (E.V.R.)
- Digital BioPharm Ltd., Hovseterveien 42 A, H0301, 0768 Oslo, Norway
| | - Eugene V. Radchenko
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.P.B.); (A.E.V.); (E.V.R.)
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown 2193, South Africa; (P.K.); (Y.E.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Yahya E. Choonara
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown 2193, South Africa; (P.K.); (Y.E.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Viness Pillay
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown 2193, South Africa; (P.K.); (Y.E.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Ahmed Kamal
- School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110 062, India;
| | - Vladimir A. Palyulin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.P.B.); (A.E.V.); (E.V.R.)
- Correspondence:
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26
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Discovery of Novel Inhibitor for WNT/β-Catenin Pathway by Tankyrase 1/2 Structure-Based Virtual Screening. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25071680. [PMID: 32268564 PMCID: PMC7180783 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway is implicated in various types of cancers. Inhibitors targeting the Wnt signaling pathway are intensively studied in the current cancer research field, the outcomes of which remain to be determined. In this study, we have attempted to discover novel potent WNT/β-catenin pathway inhibitors through tankyrase 1/2 structure-based virtual screening. After screening more than 13.4 million compounds through molecular docking, we experimentally verified one compound, LZZ-02, as the most potent inhibitor out of 11 structurally representative top hits. LiCl-induced HEK293 cells containing TOPFlash reporter showed that LZZ-02 inhibited the transcriptional activity of β-catenin with an IC50 of 10 ± 1.2 μM. Mechanistically, LZZ-02 degrades the expression of β-catenin by stabilizing axin 2, thereby diminishing downstream proteins levels, including c-Myc and cyclin D1. LZZ-02 also inhibits the growth of colonic carcinoma cell harboring constitutively active β-catenin. More importantly, LZZ-02 effectively shrinks tumor xenograft derived from colonic cell lines. Our study successfully identified a novel tankyrase 1/2 inhibitor and shed light on a novel strategy for developing inhibitors targeting the WNT/β-catenin signaling axis.
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27
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Shirai F, Mizutani A, Yashiroda Y, Tsumura T, Kano Y, Muramatsu Y, Chikada T, Yuki H, Niwa H, Sato S, Washizuka K, Koda Y, Mazaki Y, Jang MK, Yoshida H, Nagamori A, Okue M, Watanabe T, Kitamura K, Shitara E, Honma T, Umehara T, Shirouzu M, Fukami T, Seimiya H, Yoshida M, Koyama H. Design and Discovery of an Orally Efficacious Spiroindolinone-Based Tankyrase Inhibitor for the Treatment of Colon Cancer. J Med Chem 2020; 63:4183-4204. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Mizutani
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Yukiko Muramatsu
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Myung-Kyu Jang
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-31 Ariake,
Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | - Haruka Yoshida
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | - Akiko Nagamori
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hiroyuki Seimiya
- Division of Molecular Biotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-31 Ariake,
Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8850, Japan
| | - Minoru Yoshida
- Department of Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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28
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Jackstadt R, Hodder MC, Sansom OJ. WNT and β-Catenin in Cancer: Genes and Therapy. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY-SERIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-030419-033628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The WNT pathway is a pleiotropic signaling pathway that controls developmental processes, tissue homeostasis, and cancer. The WNT pathway is commonly mutated in many cancers, leading to widespread research into the role of WNT signaling in carcinogenesis. Understanding which cancers are reliant upon WNT activation and which components of the WNT signaling pathway are mutated is paramount to advancing therapeutic strategies. In addition, building holistic insights into the role of WNT signaling in not only tumor cells but also the tumor microenvironment is a vital area of research and may be a promising therapeutic strategy in multiple immunologically inert cancers. Novel compounds aimed at modulating the WNT signaling pathway using diverse mechanisms are currently under investigation in preclinical/early clinical studies. Here, we review how the WNT pathway is activated in multiple cancers and discuss current strategies to target aberrant WNT signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rene Jackstadt
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, United Kingdom
| | | | - Owen James Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
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29
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Jung YS, Park JI. Wnt signaling in cancer: therapeutic targeting of Wnt signaling beyond β-catenin and the destruction complex. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:183-191. [PMID: 32037398 PMCID: PMC7062731 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is implicated in many physiological processes, including development, tissue homeostasis, and tissue regeneration. In human cancers, Wnt/β-catenin signaling is highly activated, which has led to the development of various Wnt signaling inhibitors for cancer therapies. Nonetheless, the blockade of Wnt signaling causes side effects such as impairment of tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Recently, several studies have identified cancer-specific Wnt signaling regulators. In this review, we discuss the Wnt inhibitors currently being used in clinical trials and suggest how additional cancer-specific regulators could be utilized to treat Wnt signaling-associated cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youn-Sang Jung
- 0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Jae-Il Park
- 0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA ,0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA ,0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Program in Genetics and Epigenetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA
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30
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Foronda M, Tarumoto Y, Schatoff EM, Leach BI, Diaz BJ, Zimmerman J, Goswami S, Shusterman M, Vakoc CR, Dow LE. Tankyrase inhibition sensitizes cells to CDK4 blockade. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226645. [PMID: 31891587 PMCID: PMC6938305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tankyrase (TNKS) 1/2 are positive regulators of WNT signaling by controlling the activity of the ß-catenin destruction complex. TNKS inhibitors provide an opportunity to suppress hyperactive WNT signaling in tumors, however, they have shown limited anti-proliferative activity as a monotherapy in human cancer cell lines. Here we perform a kinome-focused CRISPR screen to identify potential effective drug combinations with TNKS inhibition. We show that the loss of CDK4, but not CDK6, synergizes with TNKS1/2 blockade to drive G1 cell cycle arrest and senescence. Through precise modelling of cancer-associated mutations using cytidine base editors, we show that this therapeutic approach is absolutely dependent on suppression of canonical WNT signaling by TNKS inhibitors and is effective in cells from multiple epithelial cancer types. Together, our results suggest that combined WNT and CDK4 inhibition might provide a potential therapeutic strategy for difficult-to-treat epithelial tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Foronda
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Yusuke Tarumoto
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, United States of America
| | - Emma M. Schatoff
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Tri-Institutional MD-PhD program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Benjamin I. Leach
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Bianca J. Diaz
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jill Zimmerman
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Sukanya Goswami
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Michael Shusterman
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | - Lukas E. Dow
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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31
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Pollock K, Liu M, Zaleska M, Meniconi M, Pfuhl M, Collins I, Guettler S. Fragment-based screening identifies molecules targeting the substrate-binding ankyrin repeat domains of tankyrase. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19130. [PMID: 31836723 PMCID: PMC6911004 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55240-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The PARP enzyme and scaffolding protein tankyrase (TNKS, TNKS2) uses its ankyrin repeat clusters (ARCs) to bind a wide range of proteins and thereby controls diverse cellular functions. A number of these are implicated in cancer-relevant processes, including Wnt/β-catenin signalling, Hippo signalling and telomere maintenance. The ARCs recognise a conserved tankyrase-binding peptide motif (TBM). All currently available tankyrase inhibitors target the catalytic domain and inhibit tankyrase's poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation function. However, there is emerging evidence that catalysis-independent "scaffolding" mechanisms contribute to tankyrase function. Here we report a fragment-based screening programme against tankyrase ARC domains, using a combination of biophysical assays, including differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. We identify fragment molecules that will serve as starting points for the development of tankyrase substrate binding antagonists. Such compounds will enable probing the scaffolding functions of tankyrase, and may, in the future, provide potential alternative therapeutic approaches to inhibiting tankyrase activity in cancer and other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Pollock
- Divisions of Structural Biology & Cancer Biology, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Drug Discovery Programme, Glasgow, G61 1BD, United Kingdom
| | - Manjuan Liu
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom
| | - Mariola Zaleska
- Divisions of Structural Biology & Cancer Biology, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom
| | - Mirco Meniconi
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Pfuhl
- School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences and Randall Centre, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Collins
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom.
| | - Sebastian Guettler
- Divisions of Structural Biology & Cancer Biology, The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, SW7 3RP, United Kingdom.
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32
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Clara JA, Monge C, Yang Y, Takebe N. Targeting signalling pathways and the immune microenvironment of cancer stem cells - a clinical update. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2019; 17:204-232. [PMID: 31792354 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-019-0293-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 427] [Impact Index Per Article: 85.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have important roles in tumour development, relapse and metastasis; the intrinsic self-renewal characteristics and tumorigenic properties of these cells provide them with unique capabilities to resist diverse forms of anticancer therapy, seed recurrent tumours, and disseminate to and colonize distant tissues. The findings of several studies indicate that CSCs originate from non-malignant stem or progenitor cells. Accordingly, inhibition of developmental signalling pathways that are crucial for stem and progenitor cell homeostasis and function, such as the Notch, WNT, Hedgehog and Hippo signalling cascades, continues to be pursued across multiple cancer types as a strategy for targeting the CSCs hypothesized to drive cancer progression - with some success in certain malignancies. In addition, with the renaissance of anticancer immunotherapy, a better understanding of the interplay between CSCs and the tumour immune microenvironment might be the key to unlocking a new era of oncological treatments associated with a reduced propensity for the development of resistance and with enhanced antimetastatic activity, thus ultimately resulting in improved patient outcomes. Herein, we provide an update on the progress to date in the clinical development of therapeutics targeting the Notch, WNT, Hedgehog and Hippo pathways. We also discuss the interactions between CSCs and the immune system, including the potential immunological effects of agents targeting CSC-associated developmental signalling pathways, and provide an overview of the emerging approaches to CSC-targeted immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Clara
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cecilia Monge
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yingzi Yang
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Naoko Takebe
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Peters XQ, Malinga TH, Agoni C, Olotu FA, Soliman MES. Zoning in on Tankyrases: A Brief Review on the Past, Present and Prospective Studies. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2019; 19:1920-1934. [PMID: 31648650 DOI: 10.2174/1871520619666191019114321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tankyrases are known for their multifunctionalities within the poly(ADPribose) polymerases family and playing vital roles in various cellular processes which include the regulation of tumour suppressors. Tankyrases, which exist in two isoforms; Tankyrase 1 and 2, are highly homologous and an integral part of the Wnt β -catenin pathway that becomes overly dysregulated when hijacked by pro-carcinogenic machineries. METHODS In this review, we cover the distinct roles of the Tankyrase isoforms and their involvement in the disease pathogenesis. Also, we provide updates on experimentally and computationally derived antagonists of Tankyrase whilst highlighting the precedence of integrative computer-aided drug design methods towards the discovery of selective inhibitors. RESULTS Despite the high prospects embedded in the therapeutic targeting and blockade of Tankyrase isoforms, the inability of small molecule inhibitors to achieve selective targeting has remained a major setback, even until date. This explains numerous incessant drug design efforts geared towards the development of highly selective inhibitors of the respective Tankyrase isoforms since they mediate distinct aberrancies in disease progression. Therefore, considering the setbacks of conventional drug design methods, can computer-aided approaches actually save the day? CONCLUSION The implementation of computer-aided drug design techniques in Tankyrase research could help complement experimental methods and facilitate ligand/structure-based design and discovery of small molecule inhibitors with enhanced selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xylia Q Peters
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Thembeka H Malinga
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Clement Agoni
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Fisayo A Olotu
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Mahmoud E S Soliman
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa
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Buchstaller HP, Anlauf U, Dorsch D, Kuhn D, Lehmann M, Leuthner B, Musil D, Radtki D, Ritzert C, Rohdich F, Schneider R, Esdar C. Discovery and Optimization of 2-Arylquinazolin-4-ones into a Potent and Selective Tankyrase Inhibitor Modulating Wnt Pathway Activity. J Med Chem 2019; 62:7897-7909. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Buchstaller
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Uwe Anlauf
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Dieter Dorsch
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Daniel Kuhn
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Martin Lehmann
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Birgitta Leuthner
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Djordje Musil
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Daniela Radtki
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Claudio Ritzert
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Felix Rohdich
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Richard Schneider
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christina Esdar
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Global Research & Development, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
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Schatoff EM, Goswami S, Zafra MP, Foronda M, Shusterman M, Leach BI, Katti A, Diaz BJ, Dow LE. Distinct Colorectal Cancer-Associated APC Mutations Dictate Response to Tankyrase Inhibition. Cancer Discov 2019; 9:1358-1371. [PMID: 31337618 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-19-0289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The majority of colorectal cancers show hyperactivated WNT signaling due to inactivating mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) tumor suppressor. Genetically restoring APC suppresses WNT and induces rapid and sustained tumor regression, implying that reengaging this endogenous tumor-suppressive mechanism may be an effective therapeutic strategy. Here, using new animal models, human cell lines, and ex vivo organoid cultures, we show that tankyrase (TNKS) inhibition can control WNT hyperactivation and provide long-term tumor control in vivo, but that effective responses are critically dependent on how APC is disrupted. Mutant APC proteins truncated within the mutation cluster region physically engage the destruction complex and suppress the WNT transcriptional program, while APC variants with early truncations (e.g., Apc Min) show limited interaction with AXIN1 and β-catenin, and do not respond to TNKS blockade. Together, this work shows that TNKS inhibition, like APC restoration, can reestablish endogenous control of WNT/β-catenin signaling, but that APC genotype is a crucial determinant of this response. SIGNIFICANCE: This study reveals how subtle changes to the mutations in a critical colorectal tumor suppressor, APC, influence the cellular response to a targeted therapy. It underscores how investigating the specific genetic alterations that occur in human cancer can identify important biological mechanisms of drug response and resistance.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1325.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Schatoff
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-I MD-PhD program, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Sukanya Goswami
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Maria Paz Zafra
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Miguel Foronda
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Michael Shusterman
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Benjamin I Leach
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Alyna Katti
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Bianca J Diaz
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Lukas E Dow
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York. .,Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.,Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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