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Hwang S, Lee W, Ravi D, Devine W, Yong M, Diebold RB, Seung SA, Ng NW, Lee J, Gupta A, Koh JS. Novel Small-Molecule ROCK2 Inhibitor GNS-3595 Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis in Preclinical Studies. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2024; 71:430-441. [PMID: 38861338 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0401oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic lung disease that leads to respiratory decline caused by scarring and thickening of lung tissues. Multiple pathways contribute to the fibrotic process in this disease, such as inflammation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and oxidative stress. The Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway is a key regulator of profibrotic signaling, as it affects the organization of actin-myosin and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. ROCK1/2, a downstream effector of RhoA, is overexpressed in patients with IPF and is a promising target for IPF therapy. However, because of the hypotensive side effects of ROCK1/2 inhibitors, selective ROCK2 compounds are being explored. In this study, we report the discovery of GNS-3595, a potent and selective ROCK2 inhibitor that has ∼80-fold selectivity over ROCK1 at physiological concentrations of ATP. GNS-3595 effectively inhibited ROCK2-mediated phosphorylation of myosin light chain and reduced the expression of fibrosis-related proteins (e.g., collagen, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin) in various in vitro cellular models. GNS-3595 also prevented transforming growth factor β-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition. In addition, in a bleomycin-induced mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis, therapeutic exposure to GNS-3595, suppressed lung fibrosis, stabilized body weight loss, and prevented fibrosis-induced lung weight gain. Transcriptome and protein expression analysis from lung tissues showed that GNS-3595 can revert the fibrosis-related gene expression induced by bleomycin. These results indicate that GNS-3595 is a highly potent, selective, and orally active ROCK2 inhibitor with promising therapeutic efficacy against pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anu Gupta
- Genosco Inc., Billerica, Massachusetts
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Ma N, Wibowo YC, Wirtz P, Baltus D, Wieland T, Jansen S. Tankyrase inhibition interferes with junction remodeling, induces leakiness, and disturbs YAP1/TAZ signaling in the endothelium. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1763-1789. [PMID: 37741944 PMCID: PMC10858845 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Tankyrase inhibitors are increasingly considered for therapeutic use in malignancies that are characterized by high intrinsic β-catenin activity. However, how tankyrase inhibition affects the endothelium after systemic application remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate how the tankyrase inhibitor XAV939 affects endothelial cell function and the underlying mechanism involved. Endothelial cell function was analyzed using sprouting angiogenesis, endothelial cell migration, junctional dynamics, and permeability using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and explanted mouse retina. Underlying signaling was studied using western blot, immunofluorescence, and qPCR in HUVEC in addition to luciferase reporter gene assays in human embryonic kidney cells. XAV939 treatment leads to altered junctional dynamics and permeability as well as impaired endothelial migration. Mechanistically, XAV939 increased stability of the angiomotin-like proteins 1 and 2, which impedes the nuclear translocation of YAP1/TAZ and consequently suppresses TEAD-mediated transcription. Intriguingly, XAV939 disrupts adherens junctions by inducing RhoA-Rho dependent kinase (ROCK)-mediated F-actin bundling, whereas disruption of F-actin bundling through the ROCK inhibitor H1152 restores endothelial cell function. Unexpectedly, this was accompanied by an increase in nuclear TAZ and TEAD-mediated transcription, suggesting differential regulation of YAP1 and TAZ by the actin cytoskeleton in endothelial cells. In conclusion, our findings elucidate the complex relationship between the actin cytoskeleton, YAP1/TAZ signaling, and endothelial cell function and how tankyrase inhibition disturbs this well-balanced signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Ma
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yohanes Cakrapradipta Wibowo
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Phillip Wirtz
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Doris Baltus
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
- DZHK, German Center for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Sepp Jansen
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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Huang Y, Mao CR, Lou Y, Zhan S, Chen Z, Ding W, Ma Z. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of an Orally Bioavailable, Potent, and Selective ROCK2 Inhibitor for Psoriasis Treatment. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15205-15229. [PMID: 37943013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis, a prevalent chronic skin disorder, remains a significant therapeutic obstacle. This study centers on rho-associated coiled-coil-containing kinase2 (ROCK2) as an advantageous target for treating psoriasis and identifies five potent and selective ROCK2 inhibitors (A31-35). Notably, A32-35 outperform KD025 in ROCK2/ROCK1 selectivity by up to 216-fold. Among these candidates, A31 emerged as an exceedingly promising molecule, showcasing remarkable inhibitory potency (IC50 = 3.7 ± 0.8 nM), 19-fold ROCK2/ROCK1 selectivity, and favorable pharmacokinetics. Insights from the binding mode study further underscored the pivotal role of interactions with Phe103 on the P-loop in determining the selectivity between ROCK1 and ROCK2. In an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model, oral administration of A31 notably ameliorated symptoms by targeting the IL-23/Th17 axis. Based on these compelling findings, A31 was selected as a highly promising compound for further investigation as a potential treatment for psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Huang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Chu-Ru Mao
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Yijie Lou
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shuai Zhan
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Wanjing Ding
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
| | - Zhongjun Ma
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
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Abdullah M, Ali A, Usman M, Naz A, Qureshi JA, Bajaber MA, Zhang X. Post COVID-19 complications and follow up biomarkers. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5705-5716. [PMID: 37881715 PMCID: PMC10597564 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00342f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Millions of people were infected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic, which left a huge burden on the care of post COVID-19 survivors around the globe. The self-reported COVID-19 symptoms were experienced by an estimated 1.3 million people in the United Kingdom (2% of the population), and these symptoms persisted for about 4 weeks from the beginning of the infection. The symptoms most frequently reported were exhaustion, shortness of breath, muscular discomfort, joint pain, headache, cough, chest pain, cognitive impairment, memory loss, anxiety, sleep difficulties, diarrhea, and a decreased sense of smell and taste in post-COVID-19 affected people. The post COVID-19 complications were frequently related to the respiratory, cardiac, nervous, psychological and musculoskeletal systems. The lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, brain and other organs had been impaired by hypoxia and inflammation in post COVID-19 individuals. The upregulation of substance "P" (SP) and various cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and chemokine C-C motif ligand 3 (CCL3) has muddled respiratory, cardiac, neuropsychiatric, dermatological, endocrine, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, renal and genitourinary complications in post COVID-19 people. To prevent these complications from worsening, it was therefore important to study how these biomarkers were upregulated and block their receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Abdullah
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore Pakistan
| | - Amjed Ali
- University Institute of Physical Therapy, University of Lahore Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Medical Informatics and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
| | - Anam Naz
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore Pakistan
| | - Javed Anver Qureshi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore Pakistan
| | - Majed A Bajaber
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University P.O. Box 9004 Abha 61413 Saudi Arabia
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Medical Informatics and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
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Guan X, Wei D, Liang Z, Xie L, Wang Y, Huang Z, Wu J, Pang T. FDCA Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Brain Injury after Cerebral Ischemic Stroke. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3839-3854. [PMID: 37768739 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a deleterious cerebrovascular disease with few therapeutic options, and its functional recovery is highly associated with the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and neuroinflammation. The Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor fasudil (F) and the pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) inhibitor dichloroacetate (DCA) have been demonstrated to exhibit neuroprotection in a series of neurological disorders. Hence, we synthesized and biologically examined the new salt fasudil dichloroacetate (FDCA) and validated that FDCA was eligible for attenuating ischemic volume and neurological deficits in the rat transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model. Additionally, FDCA exerted superior effects than fasudil and dichloroacetate alone or in combination in reducing cerebral ischemic injury. Particularly, FDCA could maintain the blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) protein expression and the degradation of zonula occludens (ZO-1) and Occludin protein. Meanwhile, FDCA could mitigate the neuroinflammation induced by microglia. The in vivo and in vitro experiments further demonstrated that FDCA disrupted the phosphorylations of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, including p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and limited excessive lactic acid metabolites, resulting in inhibition of BBB disruption and neuroinflammation. In addition, FDCA potently mitigated inflammatory response in human monocytes isolated from ischemic stroke patients, which provides the possibilities of a clinical translation perspective. Overall, these findings provided a therapeutic potential for FDCA as a candidate agent for ischemic stroke and other neurological diseases associated with BBB disruption and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Dasha Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Luyang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yifang Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, P. R. China
| | - Zhangjian Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Jin Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, P. R. China
| | - Tao Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Center of Drug Discovery, New Drug Screening Center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
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Baweja S, Kalal B, Maity S. Laser spectroscopic characterization of supersonic jet cooled 2,7-diazaindole. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:26679-26691. [PMID: 37772686 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp03010e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
We report the first gas phase comprehensive study of the electronic spectroscopy of 2,7-diazaindole molecule in the ground and excited states. Single vibronic level fluorescence spectroscopy (SVLF) was performed to determine the ground state vibrations of the molecule, which depicted a large Franck-Condon activity beyond 2600 cm-1. For the excited state characterization, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and two-color resonant two-photon ionization spectroscopy (2C-R2PI) were performed. The band origin (000) for S1 ← S0 transition appeared at 33910 ± 1 cm-1 which was red shifted by 718 cm-1 and 1322 cm-1 compared to that of 7-azaindole and indole respectively. The Franck-Condon active vibrational modes in the spectra were seen till the (000) + 1600 cm-1 region. The IR-UV hole burning spectroscopy confirmed the absence of any other isomeric species in the molecular beam. The ionization energy (IE) of the molecule was measured as 8.921 ± 0.001 eV, recorded using photoionization efficiency spectroscopy. The above IE value was significantly higher than that of the related indole derivatives, suggesting the higher photostability of the 27DAI molecule due to N(2) insertion. The ground and excited state N-H stretching frequencies of the molecule were determined using fluorescence-dip infrared spectroscopy (FDIR) and resonant ion-dip infrared spectroscopy (IDIR), and the values are 3523 and 3467 cm-1, respectively. The lower value of νNH in the electronic excited state implied the increased photoacidity of the group. A comparative analysis of the experimental LIF/2C-R2PI spectra was done against Franck-Condon simulated spectra at three different levels of theory. The vibrational frequencies calculated at B3LYP-D4/def2-TZVPP showed the most accurate prediction in comparison with the experimentally detected symmetric modes in the ground state. However, in the excited state, the lower energy asymmetric modes simulated at the B3LYP/def-SVP level of theory provided the best agreement with the experiment. This is most probably due to the distortion observed at the pyrazolyl ring leading to the appearance of asymmetric vibrational modes. The above study highlights the possibility to appropriately tune the excitation wavelengths as well as alter the photostability of the organic chromophores via additional N-insertion in the molecular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Baweja
- Department of Chemistry, IIT Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India.
| | - Bhavika Kalal
- Department of Chemistry, IIT Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India.
| | - Surajit Maity
- Department of Chemistry, IIT Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502284, India.
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Angre T, Kumar A, Singh AK, Thareja S, Kumar P. Role of collagen regulators in cancer treatment: A comprehensive review. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2022; 22:2956-2984. [DOI: 10.2174/1871520622666220501162351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract:
Collagen is the most important structural protein and also a main component of extra-cellular matrix (ECM). It plays a role in tumor progression. Collagen can be regulated by altering it’s biosynthesis pathway through various signaling pathways, receptors and genes. Activity of cancer cells can also be regulated by other ECM components like metalloproteinases, hyaluronic acid, fibronectin and so on. Hypoxia is also one of the condition which leads to cancer progression by stimulating the expression of procollagen lysine as a collagen crosslinker, which increases the size of collagen fibres promoting cancer spread. The collagen content in cancerous cells leads to resistance in chemotherapy. So, to reduce this resistance, some of the collagen regulating therapies are introduced, which include inhibiting its biosynthesis, disturbing cancer cell signaling pathway, mediating ECM components and directly utilizing collagenase. This study is an effort to compile the strategies reported to control the collagen level and different collagen inhibitors reported so far. More research is needed in this area, growing understandings of collagen’s structural features and its role in cancer progression will aid in the advancement of newer chemotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanuja Angre
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, India
| | - Adarsh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, India
| | - Ankit Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, India
| | - Suresh Thareja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, India
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Esposito D, Pant I, Shen Y, Qiao RF, Yang X, Bai Y, Jin J, Poulikakos PI, Aaronson SA. ROCK1 mechano-signaling dependency of human malignancies driven by TEAD/YAP activation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:703. [PMID: 35121738 PMCID: PMC8817028 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28319-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho family mechano-signaling through the actin cytoskeleton positively regulates physiological TEAD/YAP transcription, while the evolutionarily conserved Hippo tumor suppressor pathway antagonizes this transcription through YAP cytoplasmic localization/degradation. The mechanisms responsible for oncogenic dysregulation of these pathways, their prevalence in tumors, as well as how such dysregulation can be therapeutically targeted are not resolved. We demonstrate that p53 DNA contact mutants in human tumors, indirectly hyperactivate RhoA/ROCK1/actomyosin signaling, which is both necessary and sufficient to drive oncogenic TEAD/YAP transcription. Moreover, we demonstrate that recurrent lesions in the Hippo pathway depend on physiological levels of ROCK1/actomyosin signaling for oncogenic TEAD/YAP transcription. Finally, we show that ROCK inhibitors selectively antagonize proliferation and motility of human tumors with either mechanism. Thus, we identify a cancer driver paradigm and a precision medicine approach for selective targeting of human malignancies driven by TEAD/YAP transcription through mechanisms that either upregulate or depend on homeostatic RhoA mechano-signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Esposito
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ila Pant
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yao Shen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Rui F Qiao
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Xiaobao Yang
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yiyang Bai
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Poulikos I Poulikakos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Stuart A Aaronson
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Zhong W, Zhao L, Yang Z, Yu-Chian Chen C. Graph convolutional network approach to investigate potential selective Limk1 inhibitors. J Mol Graph Model 2021; 107:107965. [PMID: 34167067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2021.107965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Since the Limk1 is a promising drug target and few inhibitors with good Limk1/ROCK2 selectivity have been reported, discovering potential and selective Limk1 inhibitors with novel scaffolds is becoming an urgent need to develop new treatments for the related diseases. Here, we utilized molecular docking to screen potential compounds of Limk1 from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database. Meanwhile, we performed a three-dimensional graph convolutional network (3DGCN), based on 3D molecular graph, to predict the inhibitory activity of Limk1 and ROCK2. Compared with the baseline models (RF, GCN and Weave), the 3DGCN achieved higher accuracy and the averaged RMSE values on test sets for Limk1 and ROCK2 were 0.721 and 0.852 respectively. In 3DGCN, above 80% of the test-set molecules from both two datasets were predicted within absolute error of 1.0 and the feature visualization suggested that it could automatically learn relevant structure features including 3D molecular information from a specific task for prediction. Furthermore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations within 100 ns were employed to verify the stability of ligand-protein complexes and reveal the binding modes of the potential selective lead compounds of Limk1. Finally, integrating docking results, the predicted values by the 3DGCN and the MD analysis, we found that 7549 and 2007_15649 might be the potential and selective inhibitors for Limk1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihe Zhong
- Artificial Intelligence Medical Center, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510275, China; School of Biomedical Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510275, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Artificial Intelligence Medical Center, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510275, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510655, China
| | - Ziduo Yang
- Artificial Intelligence Medical Center, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510275, China
| | - Calvin Yu-Chian Chen
- Artificial Intelligence Medical Center, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510275, China; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan; Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan.
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Al-Hilal TA, Hossain MA, Alobaida A, Alam F, Keshavarz A, Nozik-Grayck E, Stenmark KR, German NA, Ahsan F. Design, synthesis and biological evaluations of a long-acting, hypoxia-activated prodrug of fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, to reduce its systemic side-effects. J Control Release 2021; 334:237-247. [PMID: 33915222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ROCK, one of the downstream regulators of Rho, controls actomyosin cytoskeleton organization, stress fiber formation, smooth muscle contraction, and cell migration. ROCK plays an important role in the pathologies of cerebral and coronary vasospasm, hypertension, cancer, and arteriosclerosis. Pharmacological-induced systemic inhibition of ROCK affects both the pathological and physiological functions of Rho-kinase, resulting in hypotension, increased heart rate, decreased lymphocyte count, and eventually cardiovascular collapse. To overcome the adverse effects of systemic ROCK inhibition, we developed a bioreductive prodrug of a ROCK inhibitor, fasudil, that functions selectively under hypoxic conditions. By masking fasudil's active site with a bioreductive 4-nitrobenzyl group, we synthesized a prodrug of fasudil that is inactive in normoxia. Reduction of the protecting group initiated by hypoxia reveals an electron-donating substituent that leads to fragmentation of the parent molecule. Under normoxia the fasudil prodrug displayed significantly reduced activity against ROCK compared to its parent compound, but under severe hypoxia the prodrug was highly effective in suppressing ROCK activity. Under hypoxia the prodrug elicited an antiproliferative effect on disease-afflicted pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells and pulmonary arterial endothelial cells. The prodrug displayed a long plasma half-life, remained inactive in the blood, and produced no drop in systemic blood pressure when compared with fasudil-treated controls. Due to its selective nature, our hypoxia-activated fasudil prodrug could be used to treat diseases where tissue-hypoxia or hypoxic cells are the pathological basis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taslim A Al-Hilal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Mohammad Anwar Hossain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Ahmed Alobaida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA; Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farzana Alam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Ali Keshavarz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Eva Nozik-Grayck
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kurt R Stenmark
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Nadezhda A German
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Fakhrul Ahsan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA.
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Amin F, Ahmed A, Feroz A, Khaki PSS, Khan MS, Tabrez S, Zaidi SK, Abdulaal WH, Shamsi A, Khan W, Bano B. An Update on the Association of Protein Kinases with Cardiovascular Diseases. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 25:174-183. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190312115140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Protein kinases are the enzymes involved in phosphorylation of different proteins which
leads to functional changes in those proteins. They belong to serine-threonine kinases family and are classified
into the AGC (Protein kinase A/ Protein kinase G/ Protein kinase C) families of protein and Rho-associated
kinase protein (ROCK). The AGC family of kinases are involved in G-protein stimuli, muscle contraction, platelet
biology and lipid signaling. On the other hand, ROCK regulates actin cytoskeleton which is involved in the
development of stress fibres. Inflammation is the main signal in all ROCK-mediated disease. It triggers the cascade
of a reaction involving various proinflammatory cytokine molecules.
Methods:
Two ROCK isoforms are found in mammals and invertebrates. The first isoforms are present mainly in
the kidney, lung, spleen, liver, and testis. The second one is mainly distributed in the brain and heart.
Results:
ROCK proteins are ubiquitously present in all tissues and are involved in many ailments that include
hypertension, stroke, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, vasospasm, ischemia-reperfusion injury and heart
failure. Several ROCK inhibitors have shown positive results in the treatment of various disease including cardiovascular
diseases.
Conclusion:
ROCK inhibitors, fasudil and Y27632, have been reported for significant efficiency in dropping
vascular smooth muscle cell hyper-contraction, vascular inflammatory cell recruitment, cardiac remodelling and
endothelial dysfunction which highlight ROCK role in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhra Amin
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
| | - Azaj Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
| | - Anna Feroz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
| | | | - Mohd Shahnwaz Khan
- Protein Research Chair, Department of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shams Tabrez
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Kashif Zaidi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wesam H. Abdulaal
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetic Unit, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anas Shamsi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
| | - Wajihullah Khan
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
| | - Bilqees Bano
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.), India
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12
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Cantoni S, Cavalli S, Pastore F, Accetta A, Pala D, Vaccaro F, Cesari N, De Logu F, Nassini R, Villetti G, Facchinetti F. Pharmacological characterization of a highly selective Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor and its therapeutic effects in experimental pulmonary hypertension. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 850:126-134. [PMID: 30753868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Studies on the role of Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) in experimental pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) relies mainly on the use of pharmacological inhibitors. However, interpreting these data is hampered by the lack of specificity of commonly utilized inhibitors. To fill this gap, we have selected and characterized a novel ROCK inhibitor, Compound 3, previously described in a patent. Inhibitory potency of Compound 3 against enzymatic activity of ROCK-1 and 2 (IC50 = 10 ± 3.1 and 7.8 ± 0.5 nM, respectively) was accompanied by a strong vasodilating effect in phenylephrine pre-contracted isolated rat pulmonary artery rings (IC50 = 51.7 ± 9.1 nM) as well as in aortic rings (IC50 = 45.5 ± 1.1 nM). Compound 3 showed a remarkable selectivity towards ROCK 1 and 2 when tested against a large panel (>400) of human kinases. A partial explanation for its selectivity is provided from docking simulations within ROCK-1. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that Compound 3 is suitable for a twice daily administration without significant accumulation upon repeated dosing. In rats with monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary hypertension, therapy with Compound 3, (1 and 3 mg/kg, s.c., b.i.d.), started 14 days after induction of the disease, attenuated right ventricle systolic pressure (RVSP) increase. Morphometric histological analysis showed that Compound 3, at both doses, counteracted MCT-induced medial thickening of lung distal arterioles with an effect comparable to macitentan (10 mg/kg, p.o., q.d.). Compound 3 is a potent and highly selective ROCK inhibitor that ameliorates hemodynamic parameters and counteracts pulmonary vascular remodeling in experimental PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cantoni
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Cavalli
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Fiorella Pastore
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Accetta
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Daniele Pala
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Fabio Vaccaro
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Nicola Cesari
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco De Logu
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Romina Nassini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gino Villetti
- Corporate Pre-clinical R&D, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Parma, Italy
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13
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Chen W, Chen S, Chen W, Li XC, Ghobrial RM, Kloc M. Screening RhoA/ROCK inhibitors for the ability to prevent chronic rejection of mouse cardiac allografts. Transpl Immunol 2018; 50:15-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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14
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ROCK inhibition in models of neurodegeneration and its potential for clinical translation. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 189:1-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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15
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Rho kinase activation in circulating leukocytes is related to hypertensive myocardial remodeling. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:1837-1853. [PMID: 30065083 DOI: 10.1042/cs20180312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rho-kinase has relevant functions in blood pressure modulation and cardiovascular remodeling. Rho-kinase activity is determined in circulating leukocytes measuring phosphorylation of its target myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), but its relationship with Rho-kinase activity in the myocardium and in vasculature in hypertension has not been evaluated.The aim was to determine the degree of association between Rho-kinase cascade activation in circulating leukocytes with cardiac and aortic Rho-kinase pathway activation in a model of hypertension and to analyze it with a cause-effect perspective.Hypertensive deoxycorticosterone (DOCA)-salt rats received the Rho-kinase antagonist fasudil (DOCA-Fas, 100 mg/kg/day, 3 weeks). Results were compared with an untreated DOCA-salt and a sham group.Rho-kinase inhibition reduced significantly blood pressure, cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial collagen and macrophage infiltration, but not aortic wall hypertrophy. Fasudil decreased significantly Rho-kinase activity in peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMC), myocardium and aortic wall to similar levels as in the sham group. A significant correlation was found between PBMC Rho-kinase activity and cardiac remodeling, specifically with hypertrophy (r = 0.51, P≤0.01), myocardial collagen (r = 0.40, P≤0.05) and ED1 immunostaining (r = 0.48, P≤0.01). In the untreated hypertensive group, increased levels (P<0.05) of the proinflammatory molecules p65 NF-κB, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and interleukin-6 antibody in the myocardium, aortic wall and PBMC were observed and were reduced with fasudil (P<0.05).In conclusion, in this hypertension model, Rho-kinase and its pathway activation determined in circulating leukocytes reflect the activation of this pathway in the myocardium and in the aortic wall and are significantly related to myocardial remodeling (hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation).
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16
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Fernández-Solà J, Planavila Porta A. New Treatment Strategies for Alcohol-Induced Heart Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E1651. [PMID: 27690014 PMCID: PMC5085684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-dose alcohol misuse induces multiple noxious cardiac effects, including myocyte hypertrophy and necrosis, interstitial fibrosis, decreased ventricular contraction and ventricle enlargement. These effects produce diastolic and systolic ventricular dysfunction leading to congestive heart failure, arrhythmias and an increased death rate. There are multiple, dose-dependent, synchronic and synergistic mechanisms of alcohol-induced cardiac damage. Ethanol alters membrane permeability and composition, interferes with receptors and intracellular transients, induces oxidative, metabolic and energy damage, decreases protein synthesis, excitation-contraction coupling and increases cell apoptosis. In addition, ethanol decreases myocyte protective and repair mechanisms and their regeneration. Although there are diverse different strategies to directly target alcohol-induced heart damage, they are partially effective, and can only be used as support medication in a multidisciplinary approach. Alcohol abstinence is the preferred goal, but control drinking is useful in alcohol-addicted subjects not able to abstain. Correction of nutrition, ionic and vitamin deficiencies and control of alcohol-related systemic organ damage are compulsory. Recently, several growth factors (myostatin, IGF-1, leptin, ghrelin, miRNA, and ROCK inhibitors) and new cardiomyokines such as FGF21 have been described to regulate cardiac plasticity and decrease cardiac damage, improving cardiac repair mechanisms, and they are promising agents in this field. New potential therapeutic targets aim to control oxidative damage, myocyte hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis and persistent apoptosis In addition, stem-cell therapy may improve myocyte regeneration. However, these strategies are not yet approved for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Fernández-Solà
- Alcohol Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ana Planavila Porta
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, Avda Diagonal 643, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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17
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Defert O, Boland S. Kinase profiling in early stage drug discovery: sorting things out. DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY. TECHNOLOGIES 2015; 18:52-61. [PMID: 26723893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ddtec.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Protein kinases represent one of the largest superfamilies of drugable targets and a major research area for both the pharmaceutical industry and academic groups. This has resulted in the emergence of numerous screening technologies and services dedicated to kinase profiling. In spite of this plentiful offering, the field is not without its own pitfalls, as the profusion of reported conditions and data can ultimately complicate interpretation of project results. Here, we discuss how kinase profiling was used in our early stage drug discovery efforts, from the perspective of a smaller biotech relying largely on assay outsourcing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Defert
- Amakem Therapeutics N.V. Agoralaan Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Sandro Boland
- Amakem Therapeutics N.V. Agoralaan Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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18
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Feng Y, LoGrasso PV, Defert O, Li R. Rho Kinase (ROCK) Inhibitors and Their Therapeutic Potential. J Med Chem 2015; 59:2269-300. [PMID: 26486225 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b00683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rho kinases (ROCKs) belong to the serine-threonine family, the inhibition of which affects the function of many downstream substrates. As such, ROCK inhibitors have potential therapeutic applicability in a wide variety of pathological conditions including asthma, cancer, erectile dysfunction, glaucoma, insulin resistance, kidney failure, neuronal degeneration, and osteoporosis. To date, two ROCK inhibitors have been approved for clinical use in Japan (fasudil and ripasudil) and one in China (fasudil). In 1995 fasudil was approved for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm, and more recently, ripasudil was approved for the treatment of glaucoma in 2014. In this Perspective, we present a comprehensive review of the physiological and biological functions for ROCK, the properties and development of over 170 ROCK inhibitors as well as their therapeutic potential, the current status, and future considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Olivier Defert
- Amakem Therapeutics , Agoralaan A bis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Rongshi Li
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Cancer Genes and Molecular Regulation Program, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center , 986805 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
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19
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A novel 3D high-content assay identifies compounds that prevent fibroblast invasion into tissue surrogates. Exp Cell Res 2015; 339:35-43. [PMID: 26475730 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Invasion processes underlie or accompany several pathological processes but only a limited number of high-throughput capable phenotypic models exist to test anti-invasive compounds in vitro. We here evaluated 3D co-cultures as a high-content phenotypic screening system for fibrotic invasive processes. 3D multicellular spheroids were used as living tissue surrogates in co-culture with fluorescently labeled lung fibroblasts to monitor invasion processes by automated microscopy. This setup was used to screen a compound library containing 480 known bioactive substances. Identified hits prevented fibroblast invasion and could be subdivided into two hit classes. First, Prostaglandins were shown to prevent fibroblast invasion, most likely mediated by the prostaglandin EP2 receptor and generation of cAMP. Additionally, Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors prevented fibroblast invasion, possibly by inactivation of myosin II. Importantly, both Prostaglandins and ROCK inhibitors are potential treatment options shown to be effective in in vitro and in vivo models of fibrotic diseases. This validates the presented novel phenotypic screening approach for the evaluation of potential inhibitors and the identification of novel compounds with activity in diseases that are associated with fibroblast invasion.
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20
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Van de Velde S, De Groef L, Stalmans I, Moons L, Van Hove I. Towards axonal regeneration and neuroprotection in glaucoma: Rho kinase inhibitors as promising therapeutics. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 131:105-19. [PMID: 26093354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Due to a prolonged life expectancy worldwide, the incidence of age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as glaucoma is increasing. Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness, resulting from a slow and progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Up to now, intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is the only treatment modality by which ophthalmologists attempt to control disease progression. However, not all patients benefit from this therapy, and the pathophysiology of glaucoma is not always associated with an elevated IOP. These limitations, together with the multifactorial etiology of glaucoma, urge the pressing medical need for novel and alternative treatment strategies. Such new therapies should focus on preventing or retarding RGC death, but also on repair of injured axons, to ultimately preserve or improve structural and functional connectivity. In this respect, Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors hold a promising potential to become very prominent drugs for future glaucoma treatment. Their field of action in the eye does not seem to be restricted to IOP reduction by targeting the trabecular meshwork or improving filtration surgery outcome. Indeed, over the past years, important progress has been made in elucidating their ability to improve ocular blood flow, to prevent RGC death/increase RGC survival and to retard axonal degeneration or induce proper axonal regeneration. Within this review, we aim to highlight the currently known capacity of ROCK inhibition to promote neuroprotection and regeneration in several in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experimental glaucoma models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Van de Velde
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ingeborg Stalmans
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Inge Van Hove
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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21
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rho GTPases are master regulators of actomyosin structure and dynamics and play pivotal roles in a variety of cellular processes including cell morphology, gene transcription, cell cycle progression, and cell adhesion. Because aberrant Rho GTPase signaling activities are widely associated with human cancer, key components of Rho GTPase signaling pathways have attracted increasing interest as potential therapeutic targets. Similar to Ras, Rho GTPases themselves were, until recently, deemed "undruggable" because of structure-function considerations. Several approaches to interfere with Rho GTPase signaling have been explored and show promise as new ways for tackling cancer cells. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on the recent progress in targeting the signaling activities of three prototypical Rho GTPases, that is, RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42. The authors describe the involvement of these Rho GTPases, their key regulators and effectors in cancer. Furthermore, the authors discuss the current approaches for rationally targeting aberrant Rho GTPases along their signaling cascades, upstream and downstream of Rho GTPases, and posttranslational modifications at a molecular level. EXPERT OPINION To date, while no clinically effective drugs targeting Rho GTPase signaling for cancer treatment are available, tool compounds and lead drugs that pharmacologically inhibit Rho GTPase pathways have shown promise. Small-molecule inhibitors targeting Rho GTPase signaling may add new treatment options for future precision cancer therapy, particularly in combination with other anti-cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Lin
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
| | - Yi Zheng
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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22
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Boland S, Bourin A, Alen J, Geraets J, Schroeders P, Castermans K, Kindt N, Boumans N, Panitti L, Fransen S, Vanormelingen J, Stassen JM, Leysen D, Defert O. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel, Highly Active Soft ROCK Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2015; 58:4309-24. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b00308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Boland
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Bourin
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jo Alen
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jacques Geraets
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | | | - Nele Kindt
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nicki Boumans
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Laura Panitti
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Silke Fransen
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | | | - Dirk Leysen
- CSD Farmakem, Elvire Boelensstraat
7, 9160 Lokeren, Belgium
| | - Olivier Defert
- Amakem Therapeutics, Agoralaan
Abis, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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23
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Homan KT, Tesmer JJG. Molecular basis for small molecule inhibition of G protein-coupled receptor kinases. ACS Chem Biol 2015; 10:246-56. [PMID: 24984143 PMCID: PMC4301174 DOI: 10.1021/cb5003976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Small molecules that inhibit the protein kinase A, G, and C (AGC) family of serine/threonine kinases can exert profound effects on cell homeostasis and thereby regulate fundamental processes such as heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism, but there is not yet a clinically approved drug in the United States selective for a member of this family. One subfamily of AGC kinases, the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) kinases (GRKs), initiates the desensitization of active GPCRs. Of these, GRK2 has been directly implicated in the progression of heart failure. Thus, there is great interest in the identification of GRK2-specific chemical probes that can be further developed into therapeutics. Herein, we compare crystal structures of small molecule inhibitors in complex with GRK2 to those of highly selective compounds in complex with Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase 1 (ROCK1), a closely related AGC kinase. This analysis suggests that reduced hydrogen-bond formation with the hinge of the kinase domain, occupation of the hydrophobic subsite, and, consequently, higher buried surface area are key drivers of potency and selectivity among GRK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoff T. Homan
- Life Sciences Institute,
Departments of Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - John J. G. Tesmer
- Life Sciences Institute,
Departments of Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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24
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Mérour JY, Buron F, Plé K, Bonnet P, Routier S. The azaindole framework in the design of kinase inhibitors. Molecules 2014; 19:19935-79. [PMID: 25460315 PMCID: PMC6271083 DOI: 10.3390/molecules191219935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article illustrates the growing use of azaindole derivatives as kinase inhibitors and their contribution to drug discovery and innovation. The different protein kinases which have served as targets and the known molecules which have emerged from medicinal chemistry and Fragment-Based Drug Discovery (FBDD) programs are presented. The various synthetic routes used to access these compounds and the chemical pathways leading to their synthesis are also discussed. An analysis of their mode of binding based on X-ray crystallography data gives structural insights for the design of more potent and selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Yves Mérour
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique (ICOA), Université d'Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, Orléans F-45067, France.
| | - Frédéric Buron
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique (ICOA), Université d'Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, Orléans F-45067, France.
| | - Karen Plé
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique (ICOA), Université d'Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, Orléans F-45067, France.
| | - Pascal Bonnet
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique (ICOA), Université d'Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, Orléans F-45067, France.
| | - Sylvain Routier
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique (ICOA), Université d'Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, Orléans F-45067, France.
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25
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Vigil D, Der CJ. Inhibitors of the ROCK serine/threonine kinases: key effectors of the RhoA small GTPase. Enzymes 2014; 33 Pt A:193-212. [PMID: 25033806 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-416749-0.00009-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the RhoA small GTPase has been implicated in cancer and other human diseases. Therefore, inhibitors of RhoA may have important therapeutic value. However, similar to the Ras small GTPases, RhoA itself is not considered a tractable target and is currently considered to be "undruggable." While recent efforts suggest that direct inhibitors of the Ras oncoprotein may yet be developed, the most promising directions for anti-Ras inhibitors involve inhibitors of protein kinases that are activated downstream of Ras. By analogy, protein kinases activated downstream of RhoA may provide more attractive directions for the development of anti-RhoA inhibitors. Among the multitude of RhoA effectors, the ROCK serine/threonine kinases have emerged as attractive targets for anti-RhoA drug discovery. In this review, we summarize the current status of the development of small molecule inhibitors of ROCK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominico Vigil
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Channing J Der
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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26
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Biro M, Munoz MA, Weninger W. Targeting Rho-GTPases in immune cell migration and inflammation. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:5491-506. [PMID: 24571448 PMCID: PMC4282076 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Leukocytes are unmatched migrators capable of traversing barriers and tissues of remarkably varied structural composition. An effective immune response relies on the ability of its constituent cells to infiltrate target sites. Yet, unwarranted mobilization of immune cells can lead to inflammatory diseases and tissue damage ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening. The efficacy and plasticity of leukocyte migration is driven by the precise spatiotemporal regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. The small GTPases of the Rho family (Rho-GTPases), and their immediate downstream effector kinases, are key regulators of cellular actomyosin dynamics and are therefore considered prime pharmacological targets for stemming leukocyte motility in inflammatory disorders. This review describes advances in the development of small-molecule inhibitors aimed at modulating the Rho-GTPase-centric regulatory pathways governing motility, many of which stem from studies of cancer invasiveness. These inhibitors promise the advent of novel treatment options with high selectivity and potency against immune-mediated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maté Biro
- Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology, Immune Imaging Program, Newtown, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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27
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Abstract
Rho kinase (ROCK) is a major downstream effector of the small GTPase RhoA. ROCK family, consisting of ROCK1 and ROCK2, plays central roles in the organization of actin cytoskeleton and is involved in a wide range of fundamental cellular functions, such as contraction, adhesion, migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. Due to the discovery of effective inhibitors, such as fasudil and Y27632, the biological roles of ROCK have been extensively explored with particular attention on the cardiovascular system. In many preclinical models of cardiovascular diseases, including vasospasm, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, stroke, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and heart failure, ROCK inhibitors have shown a remarkable efficacy in reducing vascular smooth muscle cell hypercontraction, endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory cell recruitment, vascular remodeling, and cardiac remodeling. Moreover, fasudil has been used in the clinical trials of several cardiovascular diseases. The continuing utilization of available pharmacological inhibitors and the development of more potent or isoform-selective inhibitors in ROCK signaling research and in treating human diseases are escalating. In this review, we discuss the recent molecular, cellular, animal, and clinical studies with a focus on the current understanding of ROCK signaling in cardiovascular physiology and diseases. We particularly note that emerging evidence suggests that selective targeting ROCK isoform based on the disease pathophysiology may represent a novel therapeutic approach for the disease treatment including cardiovascular diseases.
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Ca2+ sensitization and Ca2+ entry in the control of blood pressure and adrenergic vasoconstriction in conscious Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Hypertens 2014; 31:2025-35. [PMID: 24107733 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e328362adb3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcium entry through nifedipine-sensitive L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels (L-VDCC) is augmented in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) characterized by enhanced sympathetic vasoconstriction. However, the changes of calcium sensitization mediated by RhoA/Rho kinase pathway are less understood. METHODS AND RESULTS The participation of calcium entry and calcium sensitization in the control of blood pressure (BP) and vascular contraction was studied in SHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. The acute administration of fasudil (Rho kinase inhibitor) caused BP decrease which lasted longer in SHR. Fasudil also attenuated adrenergic contraction in femoral or mesenteric arteries of WKY and SHR. BP reduction elicited by fasudil in WKY was more pronounced than that induced by L-VDCC blocker nifedipine (-33±2 vs. -15±3% of baseline BP, P<0.001), whereas both inhibitors were similarly effective in SHR (-36±4 vs. -41±2%). Fasudil pretreatment also attenuated BP elevation elicited by L-VDCC agonist BAY K8644 more in WKY than in SHR (-63±4 vs. -42±5%, P<0.001), indicating reduced calcium sensitization in SHR. Moreover, fasudil pretreatment shifted norepinephrine dose-response curves to the right more in WKY than in SHR. The additional nifedipine pretreatment shifted these curves further to the right but this shift was more pronounced in SHR than in WKY. Thus adrenergic vasoconstriction is more dependent on L-VDCC in SHR and on RhoA/Rho kinase pathway in WKY rats. CONCLUSION Ca sensitization mediated by RhoA/Rho kinase pathway is attenuated in SHR compared with normotensive WKY rats. This might be a part of the compensation for enhanced Ca entry through L-VDCC in genetic hypertension.
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Abstract
Arterial hypertension is a major health problem, accounting for 12 % of the global death rate. A large proportion of patients treated for high blood pressure do not reach target blood pressure values. The question arises if new antihypertensive drugs could improve present hypertension treatment. Rho-kinases (ROCKs) are ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine kinases and involved in a variety of cell functions. They contribute to the pathogenesis of human and experimental hypertension. Pharmacological ROCK inhibition has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure in patients and experimental animals. Progress has been made towards the understanding on how non-selective ROCK inhibitors lower arterial pressure and efforts are currently undertaken to develop ROCK inhibitors to improve their specificity and isoenzyme selectivity. If introduction of ROCK inhibitors for the treatment of high blood pressure can significantly advance currently available options of antihypertensive pharmacotherapy awaits further experimental and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Grisk
- Department of Physiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswalder Str. 11c, 17495, Greifswald, Karlsburg, Germany,
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Chen HH, Namil A, Severns B, Ward J, Kelly C, Drace C, McLaughlin MA, Yacoub S, Li B, Patil R, Sharif N, Hellberg MR, Rusinko A, Pang IH, Combrink KD. In vivo optimization of 2,3-diaminopyrazine Rho Kinase inhibitors for the treatment of glaucoma. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2014; 24:1875-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2014.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2013] [Revised: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Boland S, Defert O, Alen J, Bourin A, Castermans K, Kindt N, Boumans N, Panitti L, Van de Velde S, Stalmans I, Leysen D. 3-[2-(Aminomethyl)-5-[(pyridin-4-yl)carbamoyl]phenyl] benzoates as soft ROCK inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2013; 23:6442-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2013.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Rho kinase/ROCK is critical in vital signal transduction pathways central to many essential cellular activities. Since ROCK possess multiple substrates, modulation of ROCK activity is useful for treatment of many diseases. AREAS COVERED Significant progress has been made in the development of ROCK inhibitors over the past two years (Jan 2012 to Aug 2013). Patent search in this review was based on FPO IP Research and Communities and Espacenet Patent Search. In this review, patent applications will be classified into four groups for discussions. The grouping is mainly based on structures or scaffolds (groups 1 and 2) and biological functions of ROCK inhibitors (groups 3 and 4). These four groups are i) ROCK inhibitors based on classical structural elements for ROCK inhibition; ii) ROCK inhibitors based on new scaffolds; iii) bis-functional ROCK inhibitors; and iv) novel applications of ROCK inhibitors. EXPERT OPINION Although currently only one ROCK inhibitor (fasudil) is used as a drug, more drugs based on ROCK inhibition are expected to be advanced into market in the near future. Several directions should be considered for future development of ROCK inhibitors, such as soft ROCK inhibitors, bis-functional ROCK inhibitors, ROCK2 isoform-selective inhibitors, and ROCK inhibitors as antiproliferation agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangbo Feng
- Translational Research Institute, The Scripps Research Institute , Scripps Florida, #2A1, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458 , USA +1 561 228 2201 ;
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Hyun Lee J, Zheng Y, von Bornstadt D, Wei Y, Balcioglu A, Daneshmand A, Yalcin N, Yu E, Herisson F, Atalay YB, Kim MH, Ahn YJ, Balkaya M, Sweetnam P, Schueller O, Poyurovsky MV, Kim HH, Lo EH, Furie KL, Ayata C. Selective ROCK2 Inhibition In Focal Cerebral Ischemia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2013; 1:2-14. [PMID: 24466563 PMCID: PMC3900310 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) is a key regulator of numerous processes in multiple cell types relevant in stroke pathophysiology. ROCK inhibitors have improved outcome in experimental models of acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. However, the relevant ROCK isoform (ROCK1 or ROCK2) in acute stroke is not known. METHODS We characterized the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile, and tested the efficacy and safety of a novel selective ROCK2 inhibitor KD025 (formerly SLx-2119) in focal cerebral ischemia models in mice. RESULTS KD025 dose-dependently reduced infarct volume after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. The therapeutic window was at least 3 hours from stroke onset, and the efficacy was sustained for at least 4 weeks. KD025 was at least as efficacious in aged, diabetic or female mice, as in normal adult males. Concurrent treatment with atorvastatin was safe, but not additive or synergistic. KD025 was also safe in a permanent ischemia model, albeit with diminished efficacy. As one mechanism of protection, KD025 improved cortical perfusion in a distal middle cerebral artery occlusion model, implicating enhanced collateral flow. Unlike isoform-nonselective ROCK inhibitors, KD025 did not cause significant hypotension, a dose-limiting side effect in acute ischemic stroke. INTERPRETATION Altogether, these data show that KD025 is efficacious and safe in acute focal cerebral ischemia in mice, implicating ROCK2 as the relevant isoform in acute ischemic stroke. Data suggest that selective ROCK2 inhibition has a favorable safety profile to facilitate clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hyun Lee
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Yi Zheng
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Daniel von Bornstadt
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Ying Wei
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Aygul Balcioglu
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Ali Daneshmand
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Nilufer Yalcin
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Esther Yu
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Fanny Herisson
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Yahya B Atalay
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Maya H Kim
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Yong-Joo Ahn
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Mustafa Balkaya
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | | | | | | | - Hyung-Hwan Kim
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Eng H Lo
- Neuroprotection Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
| | - Karen L Furie
- Department of Neurology, Rhode Island HospitalProvidence, Rhode Island, 02903
| | - Cenk Ayata
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129
- Stroke Service and Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, Massachusetts, 02114
- Correspondence Cenk Ayata, Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street, Room 6403, Charlestown, MA 02129. Tel: (617) 726-8021; Fax: (617) 726-2547; E-mail:
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Akama T, Dong C, Virtucio C, Sullivan D, Zhou Y, Zhang YK, Rock F, Freund Y, Liu L, Bu W, Wu A, Fan XQ, Jarnagin K. Linking phenotype to kinase: identification of a novel benzoxaborole hinge-binding motif for kinase inhibition and development of high-potency rho kinase inhibitors. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2013; 347:615-25. [PMID: 24049062 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.113.207662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzoxaboroles are a novel class of drug-like compounds that have been rich sources of novel inhibitors for various enzymes and of new drugs. While examining benzoxaborole activity in phenotypic screens, our attention was attracted by the (aminomethylphenoxy)benzoxaborole family, which potently inhibited Toll-like receptor-stimulated cytokine secretion from leukocytes. After considering their structure-activity relationships and the central role of kinases in leukocyte biology, we performed a kinome-wide screen to investigate the members of the (aminomethylphenoxy)benzoxaborole family. This technique identified Rho-activated kinase (ROCK) as a target. We showed competitive behavior, with respect to ATP, and then determined the ROCK2-drug cocrystal structure. The drug occupies the ATP site in which the oxaborole moiety provides hydrogen bond donors and acceptors to the hinge, and the aminomethyl group interacts with the magnesium/ATP-interacting aspartic acid common to protein kinases. The series exhibits excellent selectivity against most of the kinome, with greater than 15-fold selectivity against the next best member of the AGC protein kinase subfamily. Medicinal chemistry efforts with structure-based design resulted in a compound with a Ki of 170 nM. Cellular studies revealed strong enzyme inhibition rank correlation with suppression of intracellular phosphorylation of a ROCK substrate. The biochemical potencies of these compounds also translated to functional activity, causing smooth muscle relaxation in rat aorta and guinea pig trachea. The series exhibited oral availability and one member reduced rat blood pressure, consistent with ROCK's role in smooth muscle contraction. Thus, the benzoxaborole moiety represents a novel hinge-binding kinase scaffold that may have potential for therapeutic use.
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Lasker GF, Pankey EA, Allain AV, Murthy SN, Stasch JP, Kadowitz PJ. The selective Rho-kinase inhibitor azaindole-1 has long-lasting erectile activity in the rat. Urology 2013; 81:465.e7-14. [PMID: 23374844 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2012.10.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2012] [Revised: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of the selective Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor azaindole-1 on erectile function under physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions in the rat. METHODS The effect of intracavernosal (i.c.) injections of azaindole-1 on change in intracavernous pressure (ICP), ICP/mean arterial pressure (MAP), area under the curve (AUC), and response duration were investigated in the anesthetized rat under control conditions and when nonadrenergic noncholinergic neurotransmission and cholinergic function or soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) were inhibited or after cavernosal nerve crush injury. RESULTS The i.c. injections of azaindole-1 produced dose-related increases in ICP/MAP and AUC that were long-lasting at the highest doses studied compared with the prototypical ROCK inhibitor fasudil. Erectile responses were not altered by 7-nitroindazole and atropine in doses that reduced the response to cavernosal nerve stimulation by 86%, indicating that they were independent of NO release by cavernosal nerves or activation of muscarinic receptors in the corpora cavernosa. Erectile responses to azaindole-1 were not altered by the sGC inhibitor ODQ in a dose that attenuated responses to the NO donor sodium nitroprusside, indicating that they were independent of an action on sGC. The erectile response to i.c. injections of azaindole-1 or Y-27632, which was reported to be NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent, was not attenuated after cavernosal nerve crush injury. CONCLUSION The present studies indicate that azaindole-1 has long-lasting erectile activity that is independent of NO release, muscarinic receptor, or sGC activation or the integrity of the cavernosal nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- George F Lasker
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
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Chen B, Shi L, Yu X, Sun J, Zhang H, Wang S, Fang L, Du G. Differential effects of Rho-kinase inhibitor and angiotensin II type-1 receptor antagonist on the vascular function in hypertensive rats induced by chronic l-NAME treatment. Acta Pharm Sin B 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Siddiqui S, Redhu NS, Ojo OO, Liu B, Irechukwu N, Billington C, Janssen L, Moir LM. Emerging airway smooth muscle targets to treat asthma. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2012; 26:132-44. [PMID: 22981423 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2012.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2012] [Revised: 07/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is characterized in part by variable airflow obstruction and non-specific hyperresponsiveness to a variety of bronchoconstrictors, both of which are mediated by the airway smooth muscle (ASM). The ASM is also involved in the airway inflammation and airway wall remodeling observed in asthma. For all these reasons, the ASM provides an important target for the treatment of asthma. Several classes of drugs were developed decades ago which targeted the ASM - including β-agonists, anti-cholinergics, anti-histamines and anti-leukotrienes - but no substantially new class of drug has appeared recently. In this review, we summarize the on-going work of several laboratories aimed at producing novel targets and/or tools for the treatment of asthma. These range from receptors and ion channels on the ASM plasmalemma, to intracellular effectors (particularly those related to cyclic nucleotide signaling, calcium-homeostasis and phosphorylation cascades), to anti-IgE therapy and outright destruction of the ASM itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Siddiqui
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 3626 St Urbain, Montréal, Québec H2X 2P2, Canada
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Pankey EA, Byun RJ, Smith WB, Bhartiya M, Bueno FR, Badejo AM, Stasch JP, Murthy SN, Nossaman BD, Kadowitz PJ. The Rho kinase inhibitor azaindole-1 has long-acting vasodilator activity in the pulmonary vascular bed of the intact chest rat. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2012; 90:825-35. [DOI: 10.1139/y2012-061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Responses to a selective azaindole-based Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor (azaindole-1) were investigated in the rat. Intravenous injections of azaindole-1 (10–300 µg/kg), produced small decreases in pulmonary arterial pressure and larger decreases in systemic arterial pressure without changing cardiac output. Responses to azaindole-1 were slow in onset and long in duration. When baseline pulmonary vascular tone was increased with U46619 or L-NAME, the decreases in pulmonary arterial pressure in response to the ROCK inhibitor were increased. The ROCK inhibitor attenuated the increase in pulmonary arterial pressure in response to ventilatory hypoxia. Azaindole-1 decreased pulmonary and systemic arterial pressures in rats with monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension. These results show that azaindole-1 has significant vasodilator activity in the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds and that responses are larger, slower in onset, and longer in duration when compared with the prototypical agent fasudil. Azaindole-1 reversed hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and decreased pulmonary and systemic arterial pressures in a similar manner in rats with monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension. These data suggest that ROCK is involved in regulating baseline tone in the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds, and that ROCK inhibition will promote vasodilation when tone is increased by diverse stimuli including treatment with monocrotaline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward A. Pankey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Ryuk J. Byun
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - William B. Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Manish Bhartiya
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Franklin R. Bueno
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Adeleke M. Badejo
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Johannes-Peter Stasch
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Centre, Bayer AG, D-42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Subramanyam N. Murthy
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
| | - Bobby D. Nossaman
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine Section, Ochsner Medical Center, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, Louisiana 70121, USA
| | - Philip J. Kadowitz
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112-2699, USA
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Surma M, Wei L, Shi J. Rho kinase as a therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease. Future Cardiol 2012; 7:657-71. [PMID: 21929346 DOI: 10.2217/fca.11.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho kinase (ROCK) belongs to the AGC (PKA/PKG/PKC) family of serine/threonine kinases and is a major downstream effector of the small GTPase RhoA. ROCK plays central roles in the organization of the actin cytoskeleton and is involved in a wide range of fundamental cellular functions such as contraction, adhesion, migration, proliferation and gene expression. Two ROCK isoforms, ROCK1 and ROCK2, are assumed to be functionally redundant, based largely on the major common activators, the high degree of homology within the kinase domain and studies from overexpression with kinase constructs and chemical inhibitors (e.g., Y27632 and fasudil), which inhibit both ROCK1 and ROCK2. Extensive experimental and clinical studies support a critical role for the RhoA/ROCK pathway in the vascular bed in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, in which increased ROCK activity mediates vascular smooth muscle cell hypercontraction, endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory cell recruitment and vascular remodeling. Recent experimental studies, using ROCK inhibitors or genetic mouse models, indicate that the RhoA/ROCK pathway in myocardium contributes to cardiac remodeling induced by ischemic injury or persistent hypertrophic stress, thereby leading to cardiac decompensation and heart failure. This article, based on recent molecular, cellular and animal studies, focuses on the current understanding of ROCK signaling in cardiovascular diseases and in the pathogenesis of heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Surma
- Riley Heart Research Centre, Wells Centre for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University, School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Chen YT, Vojkovsky T, Fang X, Pocas JR, Grant W, Handy AMW, Schröter T, LoGrasso P, Bannister TD, Feng Y. Asymmetric synthesis of potent chroman-based Rho kinase (ROCK-II) inhibitors. MEDCHEMCOMM 2011. [DOI: 10.1039/c0md00194e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Larson B, Banks P, Zegzouti H, Goueli SA. A Simple and robust automated kinase profiling platform using luminescent ADP accumulation technology. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2010; 7:573-84. [PMID: 20059362 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2009.0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinases continue to be one of the most important targets in today's drug discovery efforts. Following the identification of lead compounds through screening efforts, it is important to profile these leads against other kinases within that family, as well as from other families, to ascertain potential off-target effects. Because many kinase assays require the use of different substrates, optimization time and costs during profiling can be prohibitive. Here we demonstrate the versatility of a luminescent ADP accumulation assay, where one set of reagents can be used for a wide variety of kinases with differing K(m app) for ATP and substrates. Assay sensitivity allows for the use of low enzyme concentrations and small percent ATP conversion levels while still maintaining high signal:background ratios. We have used a simple, inexpensive automated pipetting system to automate the entire process from enzyme optimization through generation of compound IC(50) values. Agreement with literature values proves this combination of chemistry and instrumentation provides a simple, yet robust solution for automated kinase profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad Larson
- BioTek Instruments, Inc., Winooski, Vermont, USA.
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Hahmann C, Schroeter T. Rho-kinase inhibitors as therapeutics: from pan inhibition to isoform selectivity. Cell Mol Life Sci 2010; 67:171-7. [PMID: 19907920 PMCID: PMC11115778 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-009-0189-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 09/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The emerging critical implications of Rho/Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling in neurodegenerative diseases, glaucoma, renoprotection, diabetes and cancer have sparked growing interest in the pharmacological potential of ROCK inhibitors beyond their current application in cardiovascular disease. This article discusses the therapeutic benefits of novel ROCK inhibitors in development, and highlights the recent advances in the current understanding of disease-dependent and isoform-specific functions of ROCK and their potential impact on future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Hahmann
- Discovery Biology, Translational Research Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, Scripps Florida, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458 USA
| | - T. Schroeter
- Discovery Biology, Translational Research Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, Scripps Florida, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458 USA
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Schirok H, Paulsen H, Kroh W, Chen G, Gao P. Improved Synthesis of the Selective Rho-Kinase Inhibitor 6-Chloro-N4-{3,5-difluoro-4-[(3-methyl-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-4-yl)oxy]phenyl}pyrimidin-2,4-diamine. Org Process Res Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1021/op900260k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hartmut Schirok
- Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Medicinal Chemistry Wuppertal, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany, and Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Holger Paulsen
- Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Medicinal Chemistry Wuppertal, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany, and Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Walter Kroh
- Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Medicinal Chemistry Wuppertal, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany, and Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Medicinal Chemistry Wuppertal, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany, and Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Gao
- Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Medicinal Chemistry Wuppertal, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany, and Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032 Shanghai, China
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Löhn M, Plettenburg O, Ivashchenko Y, Kannt A, Hofmeister A, Kadereit D, Schaefer M, Linz W, Kohlmann M, Herbert JM, Janiak P, O'Connor SE, Ruetten H. Pharmacological characterization of SAR407899, a novel rho-kinase inhibitor. Hypertension 2009; 54:676-83. [PMID: 19597037 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.109.134353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in basic and clinical research have identified Rho kinase as an important target potentially implicated in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. Rho kinase is a downstream mediator of RhoA that leads to stress fiber formation, membrane ruffling, smooth muscle contraction, and cell motility. Increased Rho-kinase activity is associated with vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. We identified a novel inhibitor of Rho kinase (SAR407899) and characterized its effects in biochemical, cellular, tissue-based, and in vivo assays. SAR407899 is an ATP-competitive Rho-kinase inhibitor, equipotent against human and rat-derived Rho-kinase 2 with inhibition constant values of 36 nM and 41 nM, respectively. It is highly selective in panel of 117 receptor and enzyme targets. SAR407899 is approximately 8-fold more active than fasudil. In vitro, SAR407899 demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of Rho-kinase-mediated phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase, thrombin-induced stress fiber formation, platelet-derived growth factor-induced proliferation, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1-stimulated chemotaxis. SAR407899 potently (mean IC(50) values: 122 to 280 nM) and species-independently relaxed precontracted isolated arteries of different species and different vascular beds. In vivo, over the dose range 3 to 30 mg/kg PO, SAR407899 lowered blood pressure in a variety of rodent models of arterial hypertension. The antihypertensive effect of SAR407899 was superior to that of fasudil and Y-27632. In conclusion, SAR407899 is a novel and potent selective Rho-kinase inhibitor with promising antihypertensive activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Löhn
- TD CV Pharmacology, Sanofi-Aventis, Industriepark Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Schirok H, Kast R, Figueroa-Pérez S, Bennabi S, Gnoth M, Feurer A, Heckroth H, Thutewohl M, Paulsen H, Knorr A, Hütter J, Lobell M, Münter K, Geiß V, Ehmke H, Lang D, Radtke M, Mittendorf J, Stasch JP. Design and Synthesis of Potent and Selective Azaindole-Based Rho Kinase (ROCK) Inhibitors. ChemMedChem 2008; 3:1893-904. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.200800211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Schaafsma D, Gosens R, Zaagsma J, Halayko AJ, Meurs H. Rho kinase inhibitors: A novel therapeutical intervention in asthma? Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 585:398-406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2008.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/24/2008] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Rho-Kinase Inhibitors for Cardiovascular Disease. ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s0065-7743(08)00006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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