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Mondal K, Posa MK, Shenoy RP, Roychoudhury S. KRAS Mutation Subtypes and Their Association with Other Driver Mutations in Oncogenic Pathways. Cells 2024; 13:1221. [PMID: 39056802 PMCID: PMC11274496 DOI: 10.3390/cells13141221] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The KRAS mutation stands out as one of the most influential oncogenic mutations, which directly regulates the hallmark features of cancer and interacts with other cancer-causing driver mutations. However, there remains a lack of precise information on their cooccurrence with mutated variants of KRAS and any correlations between KRAS and other driver mutations. To enquire about this issue, we delved into cBioPortal, TCGA, UALCAN, and Uniport studies. We aimed to unravel the complexity of KRAS and its relationships with other driver mutations. We noticed that G12D and G12V are the prevalent mutated variants of KRAS and coexist with the TP53 mutation in PAAD and CRAD, while G12C and G12V coexist with LUAD. We also noticed similar observations in the case of PIK3CA and APC mutations in CRAD. At the transcript level, a positive correlation exists between KRAS and PIK3CA and between APC and KRAS in CRAD. The existence of the co-mutation of KRAS and other driver mutations could influence the signaling pathway in the neoplastic transformation. Moreover, it has immense prognostic and predictive implications, which could help in better therapeutic management to treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koushik Mondal
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute, MG Road, Kolkata 700063, West Bengal, India
- Department of Cancer Immunology, SwasthyaNiketan Integrated Healthcare & Research Foundation, Koramangala, Bengaluru 560034, Karnataka, India
| | - Mahesh Kumar Posa
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jagatpura, Jaipur 302017, Rajasthan, India;
| | - Revathi P. Shenoy
- Department of Biochemistry, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India;
| | - Susanta Roychoudhury
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute, MG Road, Kolkata 700063, West Bengal, India
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C.Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700032, West Bengal, India
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2
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Needham D. Niclosamide: A career builder. J Control Release 2024; 369:786-856. [PMID: 37544514 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
My contribution to honoring Professor Kinam Park celebrates and resonates with his scholarly career in drug delivery, his commitment to encouraging the next generation(s), and his efforts to keep us focused on clinically effective formulations. To do this I take as my example, niclosamide, a small molecule protonophore that, uniquely, can "target" all cell membranes, both plasma and organelle. As such, it acts upstream of many cell pathways and so has the potential to affect many of the essential events that a cell, and particularly a diseased cell or other entities like a virus, use to stay alive and prosper. Literature shows that it has so far been discovered to positively influence (at least): cancer, bacterial and viral infection, metabolic diseases such as Type II diabetes, NASH and NAFLD, artery constriction, endometriosis, neuropathic pain, rheumatoid arthritis, sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease, systemic sclerosis, Parkinson's, and COPD. With such a fundamental action and broad-spectrum activity, I believe that studying niclosamide in all its manifestations, discovering if and to what extent it can contribute positively to disease control (and also where it can't), formulating it as effective therapeutics, and testing them in preclinical and clinical trials is a career builder for our next generation(s). The article is divided into two parts: Part I introduces niclosamide and other proton shunts mainly in cancer and viral infections and reviews an exponentially growing literature with some concepts and physicochemical properties that lead to its proton shunt mechanism. Part II focuses on repurposing by reformulation of niclosamide. I give two examples of "carrier-free formulations", - one for cancer (as a prodrug therapeutic of niclosamide stearate for i.v. and other administration routes, exemplified by our recent work on Osteosarcoma in mice and canine patients), and the other as a niclosamide solution formulation (that could provide the basis for a preventative nasal spray and early treatment option for COVID19 and other respiratory virus infections). My goal is to excite and enthuse, encourage, and motivate all involved in the drug development and testing process in academia, institutes, and industry, to learn more about this interesting molecule and others like it. To enable such endeavors, I give many proposed ideas throughout the document, that have been stimulated and inspired by gaps in the literature, urgent needs in disease, and new studies arising from our own work. The hope is that, by reading through this document and studying the suggested topics and references, the drug delivery and development community will continue our lineage and benefit from our legacy to achieve niclosamide's potential as an effective contributor to the treatment and control of many diseases and conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Needham
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA; Translational Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
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3
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Yuan Y, Li P, Li J, Zhao Q, Chang Y, He X. Protein lipidation in health and disease: molecular basis, physiological function and pathological implication. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:60. [PMID: 38485938 PMCID: PMC10940682 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01759-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications increase the complexity and functional diversity of proteins in response to complex external stimuli and internal changes. Among these, protein lipidations which refer to lipid attachment to proteins are prominent, which primarily encompassing five types including S-palmitoylation, N-myristoylation, S-prenylation, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor and cholesterylation. Lipid attachment to proteins plays an essential role in the regulation of protein trafficking, localisation, stability, conformation, interactions and signal transduction by enhancing hydrophobicity. Accumulating evidence from genetic, structural, and biomedical studies has consistently shown that protein lipidation is pivotal in the regulation of broad physiological functions and is inextricably linked to a variety of diseases. Decades of dedicated research have driven the development of a wide range of drugs targeting protein lipidation, and several agents have been developed and tested in preclinical and clinical studies, some of which, such as asciminib and lonafarnib are FDA-approved for therapeutic use, indicating that targeting protein lipidations represents a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, we comprehensively review the known regulatory enzymes and catalytic mechanisms of various protein lipidation types, outline the impact of protein lipidations on physiology and disease, and highlight potential therapeutic targets and clinical research progress, aiming to provide a comprehensive reference for future protein lipidation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiyuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianghui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ying Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xingxing He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
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4
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Ballari MS, O J Porta E, Zalazar EA, Etichetti CMB, Padrón JM, Girardini JE, Labadie GR. Lipophilic modification of salirasib modulates the antiproliferative and antimigratory activity. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 92:117417. [PMID: 37531922 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Salirasib, or farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS), is a salicylic acid derivative with demonstrated antineoplastic activity. While designed as a competitor of the substrate S-farnesyl cysteine on Ras, it is a potent competitive inhibitor of isoprenylcysteine carboxymethyl transferase. In this study, the antiproliferative activity on six different solid tumor cell lines was evaluated with a series of lipophilic thioether modified salirasib analogues, including those with or without a 1,2,3-triazole linker. A combination of bioassay, cheminformatics, docking, and in silico ADME-Tox was also performed. SAR analysis that analogues with three or more isoprene units or a long aliphatic chain exhibited the most potent activity. Furthermore, three compounds display superior antiproliferative activity than salirasib and similar potency compared to control anticancer drugs across all tested solid tumor cell lines. In addition, the behavior of the collection on migration and invasion, a key process in tumor metastasis, was also studied. Three analogues with specific antimigratory activity were identified with differential structural features being interesting starting points on the development of new antimetastatic agents. The antiproliferative and antimigratory effects observed suggest that modifying the thiol aliphatic/prenyl substituents can modulate the activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Sol Ballari
- Instituto de Química Rosario (IQUIR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario-CONICET, Suipacha 531 S2002LRK, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Exequiel O J Porta
- Instituto de Química Rosario (IQUIR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario-CONICET, Suipacha 531 S2002LRK, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Evelyn Arel Zalazar
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET). Suipacha 590 S2000LRJ, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Carla M Borini Etichetti
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental de Rosario (IFISE-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531 2000 Rosario, Argentina
| | - José M Padrón
- BioLab, Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica "Antonio González" (IUBO-AG), Universidad de La Laguna, Apartado 456 E-38071, La Laguna, Spain.
| | - Javier E Girardini
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET). Suipacha 590 S2000LRJ, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Guillermo R Labadie
- Instituto de Química Rosario (IQUIR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario-CONICET, Suipacha 531 S2002LRK, Rosario, Argentina; Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina.
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Kumar A, Gautam V, Sandhu A, Rawat K, Sharma A, Saha L. Current and emerging therapeutic approaches for colorectal cancer: A comprehensive review. World J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 15:495-519. [PMID: 37206081 PMCID: PMC10190721 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i4.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) affects 1 in 23 males and 1 in 25 females, making it the third most common cancer. With roughly 608000 deaths worldwide, CRC accounts for 8% of all cancer-related deaths, making it the second most common cause of death due to cancer. Standard and conventional CRC treatments include surgical expurgation for resectable CRC and radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and their combinational regimen for non-resectable CRC. Despite these tactics, nearly half of patients develop incurable recurring CRC. Cancer cells resist the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs in a variety of ways, including drug inactivation, drug influx and efflux modifications, and ATP-binding cassette transporter overexpression. These constraints necessitate the development of new target-specific therapeutic strategies. Emerging therapeutic approaches, such as targeted immune boosting therapies, non-coding RNA-based therapies, probiotics, natural products, oncolytic viral therapies, and biomarker-driven therapies, have shown promising results in preclinical and clinical studies. We tethered the entire evolutionary trends in the development of CRC treatments in this review and discussed the potential of new therapies and how they might be used in conjunction with conventional treatments as well as their advantages and drawbacks as future medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Antika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
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Stark M, Levin M, Ulitsky I, Assaraf YG. Folylpolyglutamate synthetase mRNA G-quadruplexes regulate its cell protrusion localization and enhance a cancer cell invasive phenotype upon folate repletion. BMC Biol 2023; 21:13. [PMID: 36721160 PMCID: PMC9889130 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01525-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folates are crucial for the biosynthesis of nucleotides and amino acids, essential for cell proliferation and development. Folate deficiency induces DNA damage, developmental defects, and tumorigenicity. The obligatory enzyme folylpolyglutamate synthetase (FPGS) mediates intracellular folate retention via cytosolic and mitochondrial folate polyglutamylation. Our previous paper demonstrated the association of the cytosolic FPGS (cFPGS) with the cytoskeleton and various cell protrusion proteins. Based on these recent findings, the aim of the current study was to investigate the potential role of cFPGS at cell protrusions. RESULTS Here we uncovered a central role for two G-quadruplex (GQ) motifs in the 3'UTR of FPGS mediating the localization of cFPGS mRNA and protein at cell protrusions. Using the MBSV6-loop reporter system and fluorescence microscopy, we demonstrate that following folate deprivation, cFPGS mRNA is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, whereas upon 15 min of folate repletion, this mRNA is rapidly translocated to cell protrusions in a 3'UTR- and actin-dependent manner. The actin dependency of this folate-induced mRNA translocation is shown by treatment with Latrunculin B and inhibitors of the Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) pathway. Upon folate repletion, the FPGS 3'UTR GQs induce an amoeboid/mesenchymal hybrid cell phenotype during migration and invasion through a collagen gel matrix. Targeted disruption of the 3'UTR GQ motifs by introducing point mutations or masking them by antisense oligonucleotides abrogated cell protrusion targeting of cFPGS mRNA. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the GQ motifs within the 3'UTR of FPGS regulate its transcript and protein localization at cell protrusions in response to a folate cue, inducing cancer cell invasive phenotype. These novel findings suggest that the 3'UTR GQ motifs of FPGS constitute an attractive druggable target aimed at inhibition of cancer invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Stark
- grid.6451.60000000121102151The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003 Haifa, Israel
| | - May Levin
- grid.6451.60000000121102151The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003 Haifa, Israel ,grid.507132.2Present address: May Levin, MeMed Diagnostics Ltd, Tirat Carmel, Israel
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology and Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yehuda G. Assaraf
- grid.6451.60000000121102151The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003 Haifa, Israel
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7
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Yan F, Bai JF, Dong Y, Liu S, Li C, Du CX, Li Y. Catalytic Cyanation of C-N Bonds with CO 2/NH 3. JACS AU 2022; 2:2522-2528. [PMID: 36465537 PMCID: PMC9709945 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.2c00392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cyanation of benzylic C-N bonds is useful in the preparation of important α-aryl nitriles. The first general catalytic cyanation of α-(hetero)aryl amines, analogous to the Sandmeyer reaction of anilines, was developed using reductive cyanation with CO2/NH3. A broad array of α-aryl nitriles was obtained in high yields and regioselectivity by C-N cleavage of intermediates as ammonium salts. Good tolerance of functional groups such as ethers, CF3, F, Cl, esters, indoles, and benzothiophenes was achieved. Using 13CO2, a 13C-labeled tryptamine homologue (five steps, 31% yield) and Cysmethynil (six steps, 37% yield) were synthesized. Both electronic and steric effects of ligands influence the reactivity of alkyl nickel species with electrophilic silyl isocyanates and thus determine the reactivity and selectivity of the cyanation reaction. This work contributes to the understanding of the controllable activation of CO2/NH3 and provides the promising potential of the amine cyanation reaction in the synthesis of bio-relevant molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fachao Yan
- State
Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research
Institute of LICP, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R.
China
| | - Jian-Fei Bai
- State
Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research
Institute of LICP, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Yanan Dong
- State
Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research
Institute of LICP, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Shaoli Liu
- College
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai
University, Yantai 264005, P. R. China
| | - Chen Li
- State
Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research
Institute of LICP, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Chen-Xia Du
- College
of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Yuehui Li
- State
Key Laboratory for Oxo Synthesis and Selective Oxidation, Suzhou Research
Institute of LICP, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics (LICP), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
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Zhu C, Guan X, Zhang X, Luan X, Song Z, Cheng X, Zhang W, Qin JJ. Targeting KRAS mutant cancers: from druggable therapy to drug resistance. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:159. [PMID: 35922812 PMCID: PMC9351107 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01629-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS) is the most frequently mutated oncogene, occurring in a variety of tumor types. Targeting KRAS mutations with drugs is challenging because KRAS is considered undruggable due to the lack of classic drug binding sites. Over the past 40 years, great efforts have been made to explore routes for indirect targeting of KRAS mutant cancers, including KRAS expression, processing, upstream regulators, or downstream effectors. With the advent of KRAS (G12C) inhibitors, KRAS mutations are now druggable. Despite such inhibitors showing remarkable clinical responses, resistance to monotherapy of KRAS inhibitors is eventually developed. Significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance to KRAS-mutant inhibitors. Here we review the most recent advances in therapeutic approaches and resistance mechanisms targeting KRAS mutations and discuss opportunities for combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Zhu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xinuo Zhang
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhengbo Song
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xiangdong Cheng
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
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Xu Z, Chu M. Advances in Immunosuppressive Agents Based on Signal Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:917162. [PMID: 35694243 PMCID: PMC9178660 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.917162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune abnormality involves in various diseases, such as infection, allergic diseases, autoimmune diseases, as well as transplantation. Several signal pathways have been demonstrated to play a central role in the immune response, including JAK/STAT, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT-mTOR, MAPK, and Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway, in which multiple targets have been used to develop immunosuppressive agents. In recent years, varieties of immunosuppressive agents have been approved for clinical use, such as the JAK inhibitor tofacitinib and the mTOR inhibitor everolimus, which have shown good therapeutic effects. Additionally, many immunosuppressive agents are still in clinical trials or preclinical studies. In this review, we classified the immunosuppressive agents according to the immunopharmacological mechanisms, and summarized the phase of immunosuppressive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Xu
- Department of Immunology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ming Chu
- Department of Immunology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
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10
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Negri F, Bottarelli L, de’Angelis GL, Gnetti L. KRAS: A Druggable Target in Colon Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084120. [PMID: 35456940 PMCID: PMC9027058 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in KRAS are among the most frequent aberrations in cancer, including colon cancer. KRAS direct targeting is daunting due to KRAS protein resistance to small molecule inhibition. Moreover, its elevated affinity to cellular guanosine triphosphate (GTP) has made the design of specific drugs challenging. Indeed, KRAS was considered ‘undruggable’. KRASG12C is the most commonly mutated variant of KRAS in non-small cell lung cancer. Currently, the achievements obtained with covalent inhibitors of this variant have given the possibility to assess the best therapeutic approach to KRAS-driven tumors. Mutation-related biochemical assets and the tissue of origin are expected to influence responses to treatment. Further attempts to obtain mutant-specific KRAS (KRASG12C) switch-II covalent inhibitors are ongoing and the results are promising. Drugs targeted to block KRAS effector pathways could be combined with direct KRAS inhibitors, immunotherapy or T cell-targeting approaches in KRAS-mutant tumors. The development of valuable combination regimens will be essential against potential mechanisms of resistance that may arise during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Negri
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lorena Bottarelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Gian Luigi de’Angelis
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Letizia Gnetti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
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An In Vivo Inflammatory Loop Potentiates KRAS Blockade. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030592. [PMID: 35327394 PMCID: PMC8945202 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS (KRAS proto-oncogene, GTPase) inhibitors perform less well than other targeted drugs in vitro and fail clinical trials. To investigate a possible reason for this, we treated human and murine tumor cells with KRAS inhibitors deltarasin (targeting phosphodiesterase-δ), cysmethynil (targeting isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase), and AA12 (targeting KRASG12C), and silenced/overexpressed mutant KRAS using custom-designed vectors. We showed that KRAS-mutant tumor cells exclusively respond to KRAS blockade in vivo, because the oncogene co-opts host myeloid cells via a C-C-motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)/interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-mediated signaling loop for sustained tumorigenicity. Indeed, KRAS-mutant tumors did not respond to deltarasin in C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (Ccr2) and Il1b gene-deficient mice, but were deltarasin-sensitive in wild-type and Ccr2-deficient mice adoptively transplanted with wild-type murine bone marrow. A KRAS-dependent pro-inflammatory transcriptome was prominent in human cancers with high KRAS mutation prevalence and poor predicted survival. Our findings support that in vitro cellular systems are suboptimal for anti-KRAS drug screens, as these drugs function to suppress interleukin-1 receptor 1 (IL1R1) expression and myeloid IL-1β-delivered pro-growth effects in vivo. Moreover, the findings support that IL-1β blockade might be suitable for therapy for KRAS-mutant cancers.
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12
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Isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase is critical for glioblastoma growth and survival by activating Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2022; 89:401-411. [PMID: 35171349 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-022-04401-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The poor outcomes in glioblastoma necessitate new therapeutic target. Isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase (ICMT), a unique enzyme of the final step of prenylation that modifies activities of oncogenic proteins, represents a promising target for many cancers. METHODS Expression pattern, function and downstream pathway of ICMT in glioblastoma were analyzed using immunohistochemistry, ELISA, cellular assays and immunoblotting method. Combinatory effect was analyzed using Chou-Talalay approach. RESULTS Upregulation of ICMT expression is a common phenomenon in glioblastoma patients regardless of clinicopathological characteristics. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analysis support the role of ICMT in glioblastoma growth and survival but not migration. Importantly, pharmacological inhibitors of ICMT are effectively against glioblastoma cells while sparing normal neuron cells, and furthermore that they act synergistically with chemotherapeutic drugs. Consistently, ICMT inhibitor UCM-1336 significantly inhibits glioblastoma growth without causing toxicity in mice. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk rather than Ras/PI3K/Akt/mTOR is the downstream pathway of ICMT-mediated glioblastoma growth. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide the proof-of-concept of pharmacologically targeting ICMT in the treatment of glioblastoma via deactivation of Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk.
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13
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Srivastava AK, Srivastava R, Bharati AP, Singh AK, Sharma A, Das S, Tiwari PK, Srivastava AK, Chakdar H, Kashyap PL, Saxena AK. Analysis of Biosynthetic Gene Clusters, Secretory, and Antimicrobial Peptides Reveals Environmental Suitability of Exiguobacterium profundum PHM11. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:785458. [PMID: 35185816 PMCID: PMC8851196 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.785458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Halotolerant bacteria produce a wide range of bioactive compounds with important applications in agriculture for abiotic stress amelioration and plant growth promotion. In the present study, 17 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) were identified in Exiguobacterium profundum PHM11 belonging to saccharides, desmotamide, pseudaminic acid, dipeptide aldehydes, and terpene biosynthetic pathways representing approximately one-sixth of genomes. The terpene biosynthetic pathway was conserved in Exiguobacterium spp. while the E. profundum PHM11 genome confirms the presence of the 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate (DXP) pathway for the isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) synthesis. Further, 2,877 signal peptides (SPs) were identified using the PrediSi server, out of which 592 proteins were prophesied for the secretion having a transmembrane helix (TMH). In addition, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) were also identified using BAGEL4. The transcriptome analysis of PHM11 under salt stress reveals the differential expression of putative secretion and transporter genes having SPs and TMH. Priming of the rice, wheat and maize seeds with PHM11 under salt stress led to improvement in the root length, root diameters, surface area, number of links and forks, and shoot length. The study shows that the presence of BGCs, SPs, and secretion proteins constituting TMH and AMPs provides superior competitiveness in the environment and make E. profundum PHM11 a suitable candidate for plant growth promotion under salt stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Kumar Srivastava
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
- Alok Kumar Srivastava,
| | - Ruchi Srivastava
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Akhilendra Pratap Bharati
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Alok Kumar Singh
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Anjney Sharma
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Sudipta Das
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Tiwari
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Anchal Kumar Srivastava
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Hillol Chakdar
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
| | - Prem Lal Kashyap
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, India
- *Correspondence: Prem Lal Kashyap, ;
| | - Anil Kumar Saxena
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms, Maunath Bhanjan, India
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14
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Pavic K, Chippalkatti R, Abankwa D. Drug targeting opportunities en route to Ras nanoclusters. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 153:63-99. [PMID: 35101236 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of the native membrane organization of Ras by the farnesyltransferase inhibitor tipifarnib in the late 1990s constituted the first indirect approach to drug target Ras. Since then, our understanding of how dynamically Ras shuttles between subcellular locations has changed significantly. Ras proteins have to arrive at the plasma membrane for efficient MAPK-signal propagation. On the plasma membrane Ras proteins are organized into isoform specific proteo-lipid assemblies called nanocluster. Recent evidence suggests that Ras nanocluster have a specific lipid composition, which supports the recruitment of effectors such as Raf. Conversely, effectors possess lipid-recognition motifs, which appear to serve as co-incidence detectors for the lipid domain of a given Ras isoform. Evidence suggests that dimeric Raf proteins then co-assemble dimeric Ras in an immobile complex, thus forming the minimal unit of an active nanocluster. Here we review established and novel trafficking chaperones and trafficking factors of Ras, along with the set of lipid and protein modulators of Ras nanoclustering. We highlight drug targeting approaches and opportunities against these determinants of functional Ras membrane organization. Finally, we reflect on implications for Ras signaling in polarized cells, such as epithelia, which are a common origin of tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Pavic
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Rohan Chippalkatti
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Daniel Abankwa
- Cancer Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
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15
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3-Carbamoylmethyl-Indole-1-Carboxylic Acid Ethyl Ester. MOLBANK 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/m1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
3-Carbamoylmethyl-Indole-1-Carboxylic Acid Ethyl Ester (an ethoxycarbonyl derivative of indole-3-acetamide) is obtained by Friedel–Crafts type cyclocondensation of γ-functionalized acetoacetamide in neat polyphosphoric acid.
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16
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Long C, Yuan L, Wei W, Li J. Overcoming chemoresistance in glioblastoma by fluvastatin via prenylation-dependent inhibition of Ras signaling. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221125934. [PMID: 36171180 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221125934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The resistance of glioblastoma to chemotherapy remains a significant clinical problem. Targeting alternative pathways such as protein prenylation is known to be effective against many cancers. Fluvastatin is a potent competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl- CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase, thereby inhibits prenylation. We demonstrate that fluvastatin alone effectively inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in multiple human glioblastoma cell lines. The combination index analysis shows that fluvastatin acts synergistically with common chemotherapy drugs for glioblastoma: temozolomide and irinotecan. We further show that fluvastatin acts on glioblastoma through inhibiting prenylation-dependent Ras activation. The combination of fluvastatin and low dose temozolomide resulted in remarkable inhibition of glioblastoma tumor in mice throughout the whole treatment duration without causing toxicity. Such combinatorial effects provide the basis for utilizing these FDA-approved drugs as a potential clinical approach in overcoming resistance and improving glioblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Long
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Limei Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Li
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, People's Republic of China
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17
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Haidar M, Jacquemin P. Past and Future Strategies to Inhibit Membrane Localization of the KRAS Oncogene. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413193. [PMID: 34947990 PMCID: PMC8707736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS is one of the most studied oncogenes. It is well known that KRAS undergoes post-translational modifications at its C-terminal end. These modifications are essential for its membrane location and activity. Despite significant efforts made in the past three decades to target the mechanisms involved in its membrane localization, no therapies have been approved and taken into the clinic. However, many studies have recently reintroduced interest in the development of KRAS inhibitors, either by directly targeting KRAS or indirectly through the inhibition of critical steps involved in post-translational KRAS modifications. In this review, we summarize the approaches that have been applied over the years to inhibit the membrane localization of KRAS in cancer and propose a new anti-KRAS strategy that could be used in clinic.
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18
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Kim HJ, Lee HN, Jeong MS, Jang SB. Oncogenic KRAS: Signaling and Drug Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225599. [PMID: 34830757 PMCID: PMC8616169 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RAS proteins play a role in many physiological signals transduction processes, including cell growth, division, and survival. The Ras protein has amino acids 188-189 and functions as GTPase. These proteins are switch molecules that cycle between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). KRAS is one of the Ras superfamily isoforms (N-RAS, H-RAS, and K-RAS) that frequently mutate in cancer. The mutation of KRAS is essentially performing the transformation in humans. Since most RAS proteins belong to GTPase, mutated and GTP-bound active RAS is found in many cancers. Despite KRAS being an important molecule in mostly human cancer, including pancreatic and breast, numerous efforts in years past have persisted in cancer therapy targeting KRAS mutant. This review summarizes the biological characteristics of these proteins and the recent progress in the exploration of KRAS-targeted anticancer, leading to new insight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jin Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea; (H.J.K.); (H.N.L.)
| | - Han Na Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea; (H.J.K.); (H.N.L.)
| | - Mi Suk Jeong
- Institute for Plastic Information and Energy Materials and Sustainable Utilization of Photovoltaic Energy Research Center, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.S.J.); (S.B.J.); Tel.: +82-51-510-2523 (S.B.J.); Fax: +82-51-581-2544 (S.B.J.)
| | - Se Bok Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Jangjeon-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan 46241, Korea; (H.J.K.); (H.N.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.S.J.); (S.B.J.); Tel.: +82-51-510-2523 (S.B.J.); Fax: +82-51-581-2544 (S.B.J.)
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19
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Role of oncogenic KRAS in the prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:143. [PMID: 34742312 PMCID: PMC8571891 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease at the cellular and molecular levels. Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) is a commonly mutated oncogene in CRC, with mutations in approximately 40% of all CRC cases; its mutations result in constitutive activation of the KRAS protein, which acts as a molecular switch to persistently stimulate downstream signaling pathways, including cell proliferation and survival, thereby leading to tumorigenesis. Patients whose CRC harbors KRAS mutations have a dismal prognosis. Currently, KRAS mutation testing is a routine clinical practice before treating metastatic cases, and the approaches developed to detect KRAS mutations have exhibited favorable sensitivity and accuracy. Due to the presence of KRAS mutations, this group of CRC patients requires more precise therapies. However, KRAS was historically thought to be an undruggable target until the development of KRASG12C allele-specific inhibitors. These promising inhibitors may provide novel strategies to treat KRAS-mutant CRC. Here, we provide an overview of the role of KRAS in the prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
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20
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Tang J, Casey PJ, Wang M. Suppression of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase compromises DNA damage repair. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:4/12/e202101144. [PMID: 34610973 PMCID: PMC8500237 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase reduces cancer cells’ ability to repair DNA damage by suppressing the expression of critical DNA damage repair pathway genes, hence increasing their vulnerability to DNA damaging insults such as PARP inhibitors and other DNA damage agents. DNA damage is a double-edged sword for cancer cells. On the one hand, DNA damage–induced genomic instability contributes to cancer development; on the other hand, accumulating damage compromises proliferation and survival of cancer cells. Understanding the key regulators of DNA damage repair machinery would benefit the development of cancer therapies that induce DNA damage and apoptosis. In this study, we found that isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT), a posttranslational modification enzyme, plays an important role in DNA damage repair. We found that ICMT suppression consistently reduces the activity of MAPK signaling, which compromises the expression of key proteins in the DNA damage repair machinery. The ensuing accumulation of DNA damage leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in multiple breast cancer cells. Interestingly, these observations are more pronounced in cells grown under anchorage-independent conditions or grown in vivo. Consistent with the negative impact on DNA repair, ICMT inhibition transforms the cancer cells into a “BRCA-like” state, hence sensitizing cancer cells to the treatment of PARP inhibitor and other DNA damage–inducing agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Tang
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore .,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596
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21
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Marcos-Ramiro B, Gil-Ordóñez A, Marín-Ramos NI, Ortega-Nogales FJ, Balabasquer M, Gonzalo P, Khiar-Fernández N, Rolas L, Barkaway A, Nourshargh S, Andrés V, Martín-Fontecha M, López-Rodríguez ML, Ortega-Gutiérrez S. Isoprenylcysteine Carboxylmethyltransferase-Based Therapy for Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2021; 7:1300-1310. [PMID: 34471675 PMCID: PMC8393201 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.0c01698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS, progeria) is a rare genetic disease characterized by premature aging and death in childhood for which there were no approved drugs for its treatment until last November, when lonafarnib obtained long-sought FDA approval. However, the benefits of lonafarnib in patients are limited, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies. Here, we validate the enzyme isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) as a new therapeutic target for progeria with the development of a new series of potent inhibitors of this enzyme that exhibit an excellent antiprogeroid profile. Among them, compound UCM-13207 significantly improved the main hallmarks of progeria. Specifically, treatment of fibroblasts from progeroid mice with UCM-13207 delocalized progerin from the nuclear membrane, diminished its total protein levels, resulting in decreased DNA damage, and increased cellular viability. Importantly, these effects were also observed in patient-derived cells. Using the Lmna G609G/G609G progeroid mouse model, UCM-13207 showed an excellent in vivo efficacy by increasing body weight, enhancing grip strength, extending lifespan by 20%, and decreasing tissue senescence in multiple organs. Furthermore, UCM-13207 treatment led to an improvement of key cardiovascular hallmarks such as reduced progerin levels in aortic and endocardial tissue and increased number of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The beneficial effects go well beyond the effects induced by other therapeutic strategies previously reported in the field, thus supporting the use of UCM-13207 as a new treatment for progeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Marcos-Ramiro
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Gil-Ordóñez
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nagore I. Marín-Ramos
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
- CEI
Campus Moncloa, UCM-UPM and CSIC, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Ortega-Nogales
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Moisés Balabasquer
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Gonzalo
- Vascular
Pathophysiology Area, Centro Nacional de
Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), E-28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares
(CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nora Khiar-Fernández
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Loïc Rolas
- Centre
for Microvascular Research, William Harvey
Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry,
Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Barkaway
- Centre
for Microvascular Research, William Harvey
Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry,
Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sussan Nourshargh
- Centre
for Microvascular Research, William Harvey
Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry,
Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Vicente Andrés
- Vascular
Pathophysiology Area, Centro Nacional de
Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), E-28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares
(CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Martín-Fontecha
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María L. López-Rodríguez
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
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22
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Wang WH, Yuan T, Qian MJ, Yan FJ, Yang L, He QJ, Yang B, Lu JJ, Zhu H. Post-translational modification of KRAS: potential targets for cancer therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:1201-1211. [PMID: 33087838 PMCID: PMC8285426 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00542-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the RAS superfamily is one of the critical factors in carcinogenesis. Among them, KRAS is the most frequently mutated one which has inspired extensive studies for developing approaches to intervention. Although the cognition toward KRAS remains far from complete, mounting evidence suggests that a variety of post-translational modifications regulate its activation and localization. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mode of post-translational modifications on KRAS including prenylation, post-prenylation, palmitoylation, ubiquitination, phosphorylation, SUMOylation, acetylation, nitrosylation, etc. We also highlight the recent studies targeting these modifications having exhibited potent anti-tumor activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hua Wang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Tao Yuan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Mei-Jia Qian
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fang-Jie Yan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Qiao-Jun He
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jin-Jian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
| | - Hong Zhu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Rio-Vilariño A, del Puerto-Nevado L, García-Foncillas J, Cebrián A. Ras Family of Small GTPases in CRC: New Perspectives for Overcoming Drug Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3757. [PMID: 34359657 PMCID: PMC8345156 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer remains among the cancers with the highest incidence, prevalence, and mortality worldwide. Although the development of targeted therapies against the EGFR and VEGFR membrane receptors has considerably improved survival in these patients, the appearance of resistance means that their success is still limited. Overactivation of several members of the Ras-GTPase family is one of the main actors in both tumour progression and the lack of response to cytotoxic and targeted therapies. This fact has led many resources to be devoted over the last decades to the development of targeted therapies against these proteins. However, they have not been as successful as expected in their move to the clinic so far. In this review, we will analyse the role of these Ras-GTPases in the emergence and development of colorectal cancer and their relationship with resistance to targeted therapies, as well as the status and new advances in the design of targeted therapies against these proteins and their possible clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jesús García-Foncillas
- Translational Oncology Division, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jimenez Diaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.R.-V.); (L.d.P.-N.)
| | - Arancha Cebrián
- Translational Oncology Division, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jimenez Diaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.R.-V.); (L.d.P.-N.)
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Herdeis L, Gerlach D, McConnell DB, Kessler D. Stopping the beating heart of cancer: KRAS reviewed. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 71:136-147. [PMID: 34303932 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It has taken four decades of research to see the first major breakthrough for KRAS-driven cancers. In particular, the last decade has seen a paradigm shift with the discovery of druggable pockets on KRAS and clinical efficacy with covalent KRASG12C inhibitors, culminating in the first approval of sotorasib monotherapy as second-line treatment in KRASG12C-driven non-small-cell lung cancer. Nevertheless, 85% of all KRAS-mutated cancers still lack novel agents. In this review, we will outline the structure, function, and post-translational modifications of KRAS and highlight the various approaches being adopted to drug KRAS, ranging from selective to pan concepts. The range of molecular modalities being explored, including PROTACs and glues, will also be described. Finally, an outlook toward the next wave of KRAS drugs and the challenges of resistance will be given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Herdeis
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Gerlach
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Darryl B McConnell
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dirk Kessler
- Discovery Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Regional Center Vienna GmbH & Co KG, 1120, Vienna, Austria.
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25
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Macicior J, Marcos-Ramiro B, Ortega-Gutiérrez S. Small-Molecule Therapeutic Perspectives for the Treatment of Progeria. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7190. [PMID: 34281245 PMCID: PMC8267806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), or progeria, is an extremely rare disorder that belongs to the class of laminopathies, diseases characterized by alterations in the genes that encode for the lamin proteins or for their associated interacting proteins. In particular, progeria is caused by a point mutation in the gene that codifies for the lamin A gene. This mutation ultimately leads to the biosynthesis of a mutated version of lamin A called progerin, which accumulates abnormally in the nuclear lamina. This accumulation elicits several alterations at the nuclear, cellular, and tissue levels that are phenotypically reflected in a systemic disorder with important alterations, mainly in the cardiovascular system, bones, skin, and overall growth, which results in premature death at an average age of 14.5 years. In 2020, lonafarnib became the first (and only) FDA approved drug for treating progeria. In this context, the present review focuses on the different therapeutic strategies currently under development, with special attention to the new small molecules described in recent years, which may represent the upcoming first-in-class drugs with new mechanisms of action endowed with effectiveness not only to treat but also to cure progeria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.M.); (B.M.-R.)
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26
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Shu L, Wang D, Saba NF, Chen ZG. A Historic Perspective and Overview of H-Ras Structure, Oncogenicity, and Targeting. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 19:999-1007. [PMID: 32241873 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-19-0660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
H-Ras is a unique isoform of the Ras GTPase family, one of the most prominently mutated oncogene families across the cancer landscape. Relative to other isoforms, though, mutations of H-Ras account for the smallest proportion of mutant Ras cancers. Yet, in recent years, there have been renewed efforts to study this isoform, especially as certain H-Ras-driven cancers, like those of the head and neck, have become more prominent. Important advances have therefore been made not only in the understanding of H-Ras structural biology but also in approaches designed to inhibit and impair its signaling activity. In this review, we outline historic and present initiatives to elucidate the mechanisms of H-Ras-dependent tumorigenesis as well as highlight ongoing developments in the quest to target this critical oncogene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Shu
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Dongsheng Wang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nabil F Saba
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Zhuo G Chen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
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27
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Wang P, van der Hoeven D, Ye N, Chen H, Liu Z, Ma X, Montufar-Solis D, Rehl KM, Cho KJ, Thapa S, Chen W, van der Hoeven R, Frost JA, Hancock JF, Zhou J. Scaffold repurposing of fendiline: Identification of potent KRAS plasma membrane localization inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 217:113381. [PMID: 33756124 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
KRAS plays an essential role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and survival. Mutated KRAS is a major driver of malignant transformation in multiple human cancers. We showed previously that fendiline (6) is an effective inhibitor of KRAS plasma membrane (PM) localization and function. In this study, we designed, synthesized and evaluated a series of new fendiline analogs to optimize its drug properties. Systemic structure-activity relationship studies by scaffold repurposing led to the discovery of several more active KRAS PM localization inhibitors such as compounds 12f (NY0244), 12h (NY0331) and 22 (NY0335) which exhibit nanomolar potencies. These compounds inhibited oncogenic KRAS-driven cancer cell proliferation at single-digit micromolar concentrations in vitro. In vivo studies in a xenograft model of pancreatic cancer revealed that 12h and 22 suppressed oncogenic KRAS-expressing MiaPaCa-2 tumor growth at a low dose range of 1-5 mg/kg with no vasodilatory effects, indicating their potential as chemical probes and anticancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingyuan Wang
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Dharini van der Hoeven
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Na Ye
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Zhiqing Liu
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Xiaoping Ma
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dina Montufar-Solis
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kristen M Rehl
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Kwang-Jin Cho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Sabita Thapa
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ransome van der Hoeven
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Frost
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - John F Hancock
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
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Lau HY, Tang J, Casey PJ, Wang M. Evaluating the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Program in Human Breast Epithelial Cells Cultured in Soft Agar Using a Novel Macromolecule Extraction Protocol. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040807. [PMID: 33671920 PMCID: PMC7919038 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Anchorage-independent soft agar colony formation assays have been widely used as an in vitro surrogate for in vivo tumour formation in xenograft studies, and has found much utility in studies such as cancer drug development. However, molecular characterisation of cells grown in soft agar has proven difficult and sometimes even impossible. We developed a set of new methods that allow DNA, RNA and proteins (including phosphoproteins) to be extracted from cells grown in soft agar, even without visible colony formation. We used these methods to demonstrate the role of the epithelial-mesenchymal program in the malignant transformation of a classical human mammary epithelial cell model. Abstract The ability to grow in anchorage-independent conditions is an important feature of malignant cells, and it is well-established that cellular phenotypes in adherent cultures can differ widely from phenotypes observed in xenografts and anchorage-independent conditions. The anchorage-independent soft-agar colony formation assay has been widely used as a bridge between adherent cell cultures and animal tumor studies, providing a reliable in vitro tool to predict the tumorigenicity of cancer cells. However, this functional assay is limited in its utility for molecular mechanistic studies, as currently there is no reliable method that allows the extraction of biological macromolecules from cells embedded in soft-agar matrices, especially in experimental conditions where no visible colonies form. We developed a set of new methods that enable the extraction of DNA, RNA and proteins directly from cells embedded in soft agar, allowing for a wide range of molecular signaling analysis. Using the new methods and human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs), we studied the role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the ability of HMECs to form colonies in soft agar. We found that, when cultured in soft agar instead of in adherent cultures, immortalized non-malignant HME-hTERT cells upregulated the epithelial program, which was noted to be necessary for their survival in this anchorage-independent condition. Overexpression of SV40 small T antigen (ST) or the EMT master-regulator SNAI1 negates this requirement and significantly enhances colony formation in soft agar driven by mutant-RAS. Interestingly, we found that, similar to SNAI1, ST also promotes EMT changes in HMECs, providing further support for EMT as a prerequisite for the efficient anchorage-independent colony formation driven by mutant-RAS in our HMEC model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yeung Lau
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Jingyi Tang
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Patrick J. Casey
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Mei Wang
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-6516-8608
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Targeting KRAS mutant cancers by preventing signaling transduction in the MAPK pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 211:113006. [PMID: 33228976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
KRAS genes are the most commonly mutated oncogenes in cancer. Unfortunately, effective therapeutic strategies for targeting KRAS mutant cancers have proven to be difficult to obtain. A key reason for this setback is due to the lack of success direct KRAS mutant inhibitors have received. Researchers have turned their efforts away from targeting the KRAS nucleotide-binding site directly and towards targeting other areas of the MAPK signaling pathway to block KRAS function. Researchers found that inhibiting enzymes and protein-protein interactions involved in the MAPK signaling pathway inhibit the activation of KRAS mutant therefore can lead to a potential therapeutic for KRAS mutated cancers. Throughout the past two decades, various indirect inhibitors have been designed and tested. EGFR and MEK inhibitors have presented with less success; however, significant advances have been made when targeting the plasma membrane localization process and the allosteric site of KRAS mutant. Farnesyltransferase and allosteric inhibitors have both advanced to human clinical trials. This comprehensive review presents the most recent developments of direct and indirect KRAS mutant inhibitors. This review summarizes published data on the inhibitory and anti-cancer activity of compounds that target KRAS activation as well as highlights the most promising strategies for targeting KRAS mutant cancers.
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Borini Etichetti CM, Arel Zalazar E, Cocordano N, Girardini J. Beyond the Mevalonate Pathway: Control of Post-Prenylation Processing by Mutant p53. Front Oncol 2020; 10:595034. [PMID: 33224889 PMCID: PMC7674641 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.595034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Missense mutations in the TP53 gene are among the most frequent alterations in human cancer. Consequently, many tumors show high expression of p53 point mutants, which may acquire novel activities that contribute to develop aggressive tumors. An unexpected aspect of mutant p53 function was uncovered by showing that some mutants can increase the malignant phenotype of tumor cells through alteration of the mevalonate pathway. Among metabolites generated through this pathway, isoprenoids are of particular interest, since they participate in a complex process of posttranslational modification known as prenylation. Recent evidence proposes that mutant p53 also enhances this process through transcriptional activation of ICMT, the gene encoding the methyl transferase responsible for the last step of protein prenylation. In this way, mutant p53 may act at different levels to promote prenylation of key proteins in tumorigenesis, including several members of the RAS and RHO families. Instead, wild type p53 acts in the opposite way, downregulating mevalonate pathway genes and ICMT. This oncogenic circuit also allows to establish potential connections with other metabolic pathways. The demand of acetyl-CoA for the mevalonate pathway may pose limitations in cell metabolism. Likewise, the dependence on S-adenosyl methionine for carboxymethylation, may expose cells to methionine stress. The involvement of protein prenylation in tumor progression offers a novel perspective to understand the antitumoral effects of mevalonate pathway inhibitors, such as statins, and to explore novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evelyn Arel Zalazar
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario, IDICER, CONICET-UNR, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Nabila Cocordano
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario, IDICER, CONICET-UNR, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Javier Girardini
- Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario, IDICER, CONICET-UNR, Rosario, Argentina
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31
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Ras inhibition by zoledronic acid effectively sensitizes cervical cancer to chemotherapy. Anticancer Drugs 2020; 30:821-827. [PMID: 30882399 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Ras is common in several human cancers, including cervical cancer. In this study, we show that Ras function can be inhibited by zoledronic acid (ZA) owing to its ability in inhibiting protein prenylation. Using in-vitro cell culture system and an in-vivo xenograft mouse model, the effects of ZA on cervical cancer cell growth and survival were determined. The molecular mechanisms of ZA's action were analyzed focusing on prenylation and its downstream signaling pathways. ZA inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of multiple cervical cancer cell lines regardless of their cellular origin and genetic profiling. The combination of ZA with paclitaxel or doxorubicin was superior to a single drug alone in cervical cancer in vitro and in vivo. Notably, complete inhibition of cervical cancer growth was observed in the combination groups. Mechanistically, ZA inhibited prenylation of oncoproteins. Ras activity was largely affected by ZA in a prenylation-dependent manner. Consistently, Ras-mediated signaling pathways such as Raf/ERK and AKt/mTOR were deactivated in cervical cancer cells exposed to ZA. Overexpression of constitutively active Ras reversed the inhibitory effects of ZA, confirming that Ras inhibition was required for the action of ZA in cervical cancer. Despite extensive efforts, there has been limited progress in the development of direct Ras inhibitors. Our findings suggest that ZA inhibits Ras activity. Our work provides fundamental evidence to repurpose ZA for the treatment of cervical cancer.
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Chai TF, Manu KA, Casey PJ, Wang M. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase is required for the impact of mutant KRAS on TAZ protein level and cancer cell self-renewal. Oncogene 2020; 39:5373-5389. [PMID: 32561852 PMCID: PMC7391290 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1364-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells possess the capacity for self-renewal and resistance to chemotherapy. It is therefore crucial to understand the molecular regulators of stemness in the quest to develop effective cancer therapies. TAZ is a transcription activator that promotes stem cell functions in post-development mammalian cells; suppression of TAZ activity reduces or eliminates cancer stemness in select cancers. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) is the unique enzyme of the last step of posttranslational prenylation processing pathway that modifies several oncogenic proteins, including RAS. We found that suppression of ICMT results in reduced self-renewal/stemness in KRAS-driven pancreatic and breast cancer cells. Silencing of ICMT led to significant reduction of TAZ protein levels and loss of self-renewal ability, which could be reversed by overexpressing mutant KRAS, demonstrating the functional impact of ICMT modification on the ability of KRAS to control TAZ stability and function. Contrary to expectation, YAP protein levels appear to be much less susceptible than TAZ to the regulation by ICMT and KRAS, and YAP is less consequential in regulating stemness characteristics in these cells. Further, we found that the ICMT-dependent KRAS regulation of TAZ was mediated through RAF, but not PI3K, signaling. Functionally, we demonstrate that a signaling cascade from ICMT modification of KRAS to TAZ protein stability supports cancer cell self-renewal abilities in both in vitro and in vivo settings. In addition, studies using the proof-of-concept small molecule inhibitors of ICMT confirmed its role in regulating TAZ and self-renewal, demonstrating the potential utility of targeting ICMT to control aggressive KRAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin Fan Chai
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore
| | - Kanjoormana Aryan Manu
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore. .,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore.
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Uras IZ, Moll HP, Casanova E. Targeting KRAS Mutant Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Past, Present and Future. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4325. [PMID: 32560574 PMCID: PMC7352653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most frequent cancer with an aggressive clinical course and high mortality rates. Most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited and the efficacy of chemotherapy is poor. The disease has a complex and heterogeneous background with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% of patients and lung adenocarcinoma being the most common histological subtype. Almost 30% of adenocarcinomas of the lung are driven by an activating Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) mutation. The ability to inhibit the oncogenic KRAS has been the holy grail of cancer research and the search for inhibitors is immensely ongoing as KRAS-mutated tumors are among the most aggressive and refractory to treatment. Therapeutic strategies tailored for KRAS+ NSCLC rely on the blockage of KRAS functional output, cellular dependencies, metabolic features, KRAS membrane associations, direct targeting of KRAS and immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an update on the most recent advances in anti-KRAS therapy for lung tumors with mechanistic insights into biological diversity and potential clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Z. Uras
- Department of Pharmacology, Center of Physiology and Pharmacology & Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC), Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Herwig P. Moll
- Department of Physiology, Center of Physiology and Pharmacology & Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC), Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (H.P.M.); (E.C.)
| | - Emilio Casanova
- Department of Physiology, Center of Physiology and Pharmacology & Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC), Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (H.P.M.); (E.C.)
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research (LBI-CR), 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
RAS (KRAS, NRAS and HRAS) is the most frequently mutated gene family in cancers, and, consequently, investigators have sought an effective RAS inhibitor for more than three decades. Even 10 years ago, RAS inhibitors were so elusive that RAS was termed 'undruggable'. Now, with the success of allele-specific covalent inhibitors against the most frequently mutated version of RAS in non-small-cell lung cancer, KRASG12C, we have the opportunity to evaluate the best therapeutic strategies to treat RAS-driven cancers. Mutation-specific biochemical properties, as well as the tissue of origin, are likely to affect the effectiveness of such treatments. Currently, direct inhibition of mutant RAS through allele-specific inhibitors provides the best therapeutic approach. Therapies that target RAS-activating pathways or RAS effector pathways could be combined with these direct RAS inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors or T cell-targeting approaches to treat RAS-mutant tumours. Here we review recent advances in therapies that target mutant RAS proteins and discuss the future challenges of these therapies, including combination strategies.
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Isoprenylcysteine Carboxyl Methyltransferase and Its Substrate Ras Are Critical Players Regulating TLR-Mediated Inflammatory Responses. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051216. [PMID: 32422978 PMCID: PMC7291029 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the functional role of isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase (ICMT) and its methylatable substrate Ras in Toll-like receptor (TLR)-activated macrophages and in mouse inflammatory disease conditions. ICMT and RAS expressions were strongly increased in macrophages under the activation conditions of TLRs by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, a TLR4 ligand), pam3CSK (TLR2), or poly(I:C) (TLR3) and in the colons, stomachs, and livers of mice with colitis, gastritis, and hepatitis. The inhibition and activation of ICMT and Ras through genetic and pharmacological approaches significantly affected the activation of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK)s, tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6), transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and MAPK kinases (MAPKKs); translocation of the AP-1 family; and the expressions of inflammation-related genes that depend on both MyD88 and TRIF. Interestingly, the Ras/ICMT-mediated inflammatory reaction critically depends on the TIR domains of myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) and TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF). Taken together, these results suggest that ICMT and its methylated Ras play important roles in the regulation of inflammatory responses through cooperation with the TIR domain of adaptor molecules.
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Chen FY, Li X, Zhu HP, Huang W. Regulation of the Ras-Related Signaling Pathway by Small Molecules Containing an Indole Core Scaffold: A Potential Antitumor Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:280. [PMID: 32231571 PMCID: PMC7082308 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ras-Related signaling pathway plays an important role in cell development and differentiation. A growing body of evidence collected in recent years has shown that the aberrant activation of Ras is associated with tumor-related processes. Several studies have indicated that indole and its derivatives can target regulatory factors and interfere with or even block the aberrant Ras-Related pathway to treat or improve malignant tumors. In this review, we summarize the roles of indole and its derivatives in the isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase-participant Ras membrane localization signaling pathway and Ras-GTP/Raf/MAPK signaling pathway through their regulatory mechanisms. Moreover, we briefly discuss the current treatment strategies that target these pathways. Our review will help guide the further study of the application of Ras-Related signaling pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong-Ping Zhu
- Antibiotics Research and Re-evaluation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Siddiqui F, Alam C, Rosenqvist P, Ora M, Sabt A, Manoharan GB, Bindu L, Okutachi S, Catillon M, Taylor T, Abdelhafez OM, Lönnberg H, Stephen AG, Papageorgiou AC, Virta P, Abankwa D. PDE6D Inhibitors with a New Design Principle Selectively Block K-Ras Activity. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:832-842. [PMID: 31956834 PMCID: PMC6964506 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b03639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The trafficking chaperone PDE6D (also referred to as PDEδ) has been nominated as a surrogate target for K-Ras4B (hereafter K-Ras). Arl2-assisted unloading of K-Ras from PDE6D in the perinuclear area is significant for correct K-Ras localization and therefore activity. However, the unloading mechanism also leads to the undesired ejection of PDE6D inhibitors. To counteract ejection, others have recently optimized inhibitors for picomolar affinities; however, cell penetration generally seems to remain an issue. To increase resilience against ejection, we engineered a "chemical spring" into prenyl-binding pocket inhibitors of PDE6D. Furthermore, cell penetration was improved by attaching a cell-penetration group, allowing us to arrive at micromolar in cellulo potencies in the first generation. Our model compounds, Deltaflexin-1 and -2, selectively disrupt K-Ras, but not H-Ras membrane organization. This selectivity profile is reflected in the antiproliferative activity on colorectal and breast cancer cells, as well as the ability to block stemness traits of lung and breast cancer cells. While our current model compounds still have a low in vitro potency, we expect that our modular and simple inhibitor redesign could significantly advance the development of pharmacologically more potent compounds against PDE6D and related targets, such as UNC119 in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid
A. Siddiqui
- Turku
Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and
Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Catharina Alam
- Turku
Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and
Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Petja Rosenqvist
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Mikko Ora
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Ahmed Sabt
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Chemistry
of Natural Compounds Department, National
Research Centre, Dokki, 12622 Giza, Egypt
| | - Ganesh babu Manoharan
- Cancer
Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Life Sciences Research Unit, University of Luxembourg, 4362 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Lakshman Bindu
- NCI
RAS Initiative, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, 21702 Frederick, Maryland, United States
| | - Sunday Okutachi
- Cancer
Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Life Sciences Research Unit, University of Luxembourg, 4362 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Marie Catillon
- Cancer
Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Life Sciences Research Unit, University of Luxembourg, 4362 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Troy Taylor
- NCI
RAS Initiative, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, 21702 Frederick, Maryland, United States
| | - Omaima M. Abdelhafez
- Chemistry
of Natural Compounds Department, National
Research Centre, Dokki, 12622 Giza, Egypt
| | - Harri Lönnberg
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Andrew G. Stephen
- NCI
RAS Initiative, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, 21702 Frederick, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Pasi Virta
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Daniel Abankwa
- Turku
Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and
Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
- Cancer
Cell Biology and Drug Discovery Group, Life Sciences Research Unit, University of Luxembourg, 4362 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- E-mail:
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38
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Mykhailiuk PK, Koenigs RM. Diazoacetonitrile (N 2 CHCN): A Long Forgotten but Valuable Reagent for Organic Synthesis. Chemistry 2019; 26:89-101. [PMID: 31415714 PMCID: PMC6973033 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201903335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Diazoacetonitrile (N2CHCN) is a small reactive diazoalkane. It has been synthesized for the first time already in 1898 by Theodor Curtius, however, did not gain much recognition in organic synthesis until recently. Only in 2015, after introduction of in situ and flow protocols for the safe generation of diazoacetonitrile, it started gaining popularity. In this minireview, the synthetic properties and applications of this valuable reagent are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel K Mykhailiuk
- Enamine Ltd., Chervonotkatska 78, 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Chemistry Department, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Volodymyrska 64, 01601, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Rene M Koenigs
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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Wang C, Liu X, He R, Li J, Pan R. Prenylation-dependent Ras inhibition by pamidronate inhibits pediatric acute myeloid leukemia stem and differentiated cell growth and survival. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 517:439-444. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.07.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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40
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Manu KA, Cao PHA, Chai TF, Casey PJ, Wang M. p21cip1/waf1 Coordinate Autophagy, Proliferation and Apoptosis in Response to Metabolic Stress. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081112. [PMID: 31382612 PMCID: PMC6721591 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells possess metabolic properties that are different from benign cells. These unique characteristics have become attractive targets that are being actively investigated for cancer therapy. p21cip1/waf1, also known as Cyclin-Dependent Kinase inhibitor 1A, is encoded by the CDKN1A gene. It is a major p53 target gene involved in cell cycle progression that has been extensively evaluated. To date, p21 has been reported to regulate various cell functions, both dependent and independent of p53. Besides regulating the cell cycle, p21 also modulates apoptosis, induces senescence, and maintains cellular quiescence in response to various stimuli. p21 transcription is induced in response to stresses, including those from oxidative and chemotherapeutic treatment. A recent study has shown that in response to metabolic stresses such as nutrient and energy depletion, p21 expression is induced to regulate various cell functions. Despite the biological significance, the mechanism of p21 regulation in cancer adaptation to metabolic stress is underexplored and thus represents an exciting field. This review focuses on the recent development of p21 regulation in response to metabolic stress and its impact in inducing cell cycle arrest and death in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanjoormana Aryan Manu
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Pham Hong Anh Cao
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Tin Fan Chai
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore.
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41
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Saliani M, Jalal R, Ahmadian MR. From basic researches to new achievements in therapeutic strategies of KRAS-driven cancers. Cancer Biol Med 2019; 16:435-461. [PMID: 31565476 PMCID: PMC6743616 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2018.0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the numerous oncogenes involved in human cancers, KRAS represents the most studied and best characterized cancer-related genes. Several therapeutic strategies targeting oncogenic KRAS (KRAS onc ) signaling pathways have been suggested, including the inhibition of synthetic lethal interactions, direct inhibition of KRAS onc itself, blockade of downstream KRAS onc effectors, prevention of post-translational KRAS onc modifications, inhibition of the induced stem cell-like program, targeting of metabolic peculiarities, stimulation of the immune system, inhibition of inflammation, blockade of upstream signaling pathways, targeted RNA replacement, and oncogene-induced senescence. Despite intensive and continuous efforts, KRAS onc remains an elusive target for cancer therapy. To highlight the progress to date, this review covers a collection of studies on therapeutic strategies for KRAS published from 1995 to date. An overview of the path of progress from earlier to more recent insights highlight novel opportunities for clinical development towards KRASonc-signaling targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Saliani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
| | - Razieh Jalal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
- Department of Research Cell and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Ahmadian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
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42
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Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase is associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma chemoresistance and Ras activation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 516:784-789. [PMID: 31253403 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.06.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Development of chemo-resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) poses the therapeutic challenge and its mechanisms are still poorly understood. In this work, we demonstrate that targeting isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (Icmt) is a therapeutic strategy to overcome NPC chemo-resistance. We found that Icmt mRNA and protein levels were increased in NPC cells after prolonged exposure to chemotherapy. Using pharmacological inhibitor cysmethynil or genetic siRNA approaches, we showed that Icmt inhibition was more effective against chemoresistant compared to chemosensitive NPC cells, suggesting that chemoresistant NPC cells is more dependent on Icmt function. The combination of Icmt inhibition with 5-FU or cisplatin resulted in greater efficacy than single chemotherapeutic agent alone in NPC. Notably, we demonstrated that the in vitro observations were translatable to in vivo NPC cancer xenograft mouse model. Mechanism analysis indicated that Icmt inhibition decreased Ras and RhoA activities, leading to the suppression of Ras and RhoA-mediated downstream signaling in NPC cells. The reverse of the inhibitory effects of cysmethynil by constitutively active Ras suggests that Ras is the critical effector of Icmt in NPC cells. Our work is the first to show that Icmt plays an important role in the development of NPC chemoresistance. Our findings also suggest that targeting Icmt represents a promising strategy to inhibit Ras function.
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43
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Marín-Ramos NI, Balabasquer M, Ortega-Nogales FJ, Torrecillas IR, Gil-Ordóñez A, Marcos-Ramiro B, Aguilar-Garrido P, Cushman I, Romero A, Medrano FJ, Gajate C, Mollinedo F, Philips MR, Campillo M, Gallardo M, Martín-Fontecha M, López-Rodríguez ML, Ortega-Gutiérrez S. A Potent Isoprenylcysteine Carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) Inhibitor Improves Survival in Ras-Driven Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Med Chem 2019; 62:6035-6046. [PMID: 31181882 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Blockade of Ras activity by inhibiting its post-translational methylation catalyzed by isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) has been suggested as a promising antitumor strategy. However, the paucity of inhibitors has precluded the clinical validation of this approach. In this work we report a potent ICMT inhibitor, compound 3 [UCM-1336, IC50 = 2 μM], which is selective against the other enzymes involved in the post-translational modifications of Ras. Compound 3 significantly impairs the membrane association of the four Ras isoforms, leading to a decrease of Ras activity and to inhibition of Ras downstream signaling pathways. In addition, it induces cell death in a variety of Ras-mutated tumor cell lines and increases survival in an in vivo model of acute myeloid leukemia. Because ICMT inhibition impairs the activity of the four Ras isoforms regardless of its activating mutation, compound 3 surmounts many of the common limitations of available Ras inhibitors described so far. In addition, these results validate ICMT as a valuable target for the treatment of Ras-driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagore I Marín-Ramos
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain.,CEI Campus Moncloa , UCM-UPM and CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Moisés Balabasquer
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Francisco J Ortega-Nogales
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Iván R Torrecillas
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina , Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona , E-08193 Bellaterra , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Ana Gil-Ordóñez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Beatriz Marcos-Ramiro
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Pedro Aguilar-Garrido
- H12O-CNIO Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit , Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) , E-28029 Madrid , Spain
| | - Ian Cushman
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology , Duke University Medical Center , Durham , North Carolina 27710 , United States
| | - Antonio Romero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | | | - Consuelo Gajate
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | | | - Mark R Philips
- Perlmutter Cancer Center , New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York 10016 , United States
| | - Mercedes Campillo
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina , Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona , E-08193 Bellaterra , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Miguel Gallardo
- H12O-CNIO Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit , Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) , E-28029 Madrid , Spain
| | - Mar Martín-Fontecha
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - María L López-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
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44
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Pan Q, Xu J, Ma L. Simvastatin enhances chemotherapy in cervical cancer via inhibition of multiple prenylation-dependent GTPases-regulated pathways. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2019; 34:32-40. [PMID: 31058344 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of GTPases is common in cervical cancer, and their proper biological functions largely depend on a post-translational modification termed prenylation. Simvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering drug via inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, thereby inhibiting protein prenylation. In this study, we show that simvastatin selectively inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in cervical cancer cells while sparing normal cervical epithelial cells. This is achieved by depleting geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate, inhibiting prenylation, decreasing GTPases activities and suppressing the activation of downstream Ras and RhoA signaling. The combination of simvastatin and paclitaxel remarkably augments in vitro as well as in vivo efficacy of either drug alone in cellular system and xenograft mouse model. Importantly, we show that cervical cancer cells have higher level of HMG-CoA reductase and elevated activities of GTPases, suggesting that cervical cancer cells may be more dependent on prenylation than normal cervical epithelial cells. This might explain the selective inhibitory effects of simvastatin in cervical cancer. Since simvastatin is already available for clinic use, these results suggest that simvastatin is a promising drug candidate in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of cervical cancer. Our findings also emphasize the therapeutic value of prenylation inhibition and provide preclinical evidence to evaluate prenylation-targeted drugs in cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Renmin Road 1, Jingzhou, Hubei, 434020, China
| | - Jiazhen Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Renmin Road 1, Jingzhou, Hubei, 434020, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jingzhou Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Renmin Road 1, Jingzhou, Hubei, 434020, China
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45
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Hock KJ, Knorrscheidt A, Hommelsheim R, Ho J, Weissenborn MJ, Koenigs RM. Eisenporphyrin-katalysierte C-H-Funktionalisierung von Indol mit Diazoacetonitril für die Synthese von Tryptaminen. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201813631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina J. Hock
- Institut für Organische Chemie; RWTH Aachen University; Landoltweg 1 52074 Aachen Deutschland
| | - Anja Knorrscheidt
- Leibniz Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie; Weinberg 3 06120 Halle (Saale) Deutschland
| | - Renè Hommelsheim
- Institut für Organische Chemie; RWTH Aachen University; Landoltweg 1 52074 Aachen Deutschland
| | - Junming Ho
- School of Chemistry; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australien
| | - Martin J. Weissenborn
- Leibniz Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie; Weinberg 3 06120 Halle (Saale) Deutschland
- Institut für Chemie; Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg; Kurt-Mothes-Straße 2 06120 Halle (Saale) Deutschland
| | - Rene M. Koenigs
- Institut für Organische Chemie; RWTH Aachen University; Landoltweg 1 52074 Aachen Deutschland
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46
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Hock KJ, Knorrscheidt A, Hommelsheim R, Ho J, Weissenborn MJ, Koenigs RM. Tryptamine Synthesis by Iron Porphyrin Catalyzed C-H Functionalization of Indoles with Diazoacetonitrile. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:3630-3634. [PMID: 30570826 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201813631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The functionalization of C-H bonds with non-precious metal catalysts is an important research area for the development of efficient and sustainable processes. Herein, we describe the development of iron porphyrin catalyzed reactions of diazoacetonitrile with N-heterocycles yielding important precursors of tryptamines, along with experimental mechanistic studies and proof-of-concept studies of an enzymatic process with YfeX enzyme. By using readily available FeTPPCl, we achieved the highly efficient C-H functionalization of indole and indazole heterocycles. These transformations feature mild reaction conditions, excellent yields with broad functional group tolerance, can be conducted on gram scale, and thus provide a unique streamlined access to tryptamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina J Hock
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anja Knorrscheidt
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Renè Hommelsheim
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Junming Ho
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Martin J Weissenborn
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.,Institute of Chemistry, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 2, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Rene M Koenigs
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Landoltweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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47
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Ropivacaine inhibits the migration of esophageal cancer cells via sodium-channel-independent but prenylation-dependent inhibition of Rac1/JNK/paxillin/FAK. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 501:1074-1079. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.05.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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48
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Liu Q, Chen J, Fu B, Dai J, Zhao Y, Lai L. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase regulates ovarian cancer cell response to chemotherapy and Ras activation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 501:556-562. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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49
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Abstract
Activating Ras mutations are associated with ∼30% of all human cancers and the four Ras isoforms are highly attractive targets for anticancer drug discovery. However, Ras proteins are challenging targets for conventional drug discovery because they function through intracellular protein-protein interactions and their surfaces lack major pockets for small molecules to bind. Over the past few years, researchers have explored a variety of approaches and modalities, with the aim of specifically targeting oncogenic Ras mutants for anticancer treatment. This perspective will provide an overview of the efforts on developing "macromolecular" inhibitors against Ras proteins, including peptides, macrocycles, antibodies, nonimmunoglobulin proteins, and nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210
| | - Kuangyu Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210
| | - Hui Liao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210
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50
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Marín-Ramos NI, Ortega-Gutiérrez S, López-Rodríguez ML. Blocking Ras inhibition as an antitumor strategy. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 54:91-100. [PMID: 29409706 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ras proteins are among the most frequently mutated drivers in human cancer and remain an elusive pharmaceutical targeting. Previous studies have improved the understanding of Ras structure, processing, and signaling pathways in cancer cells and have opened new possibilities for inhibiting Ras function. In this review we discuss the most recent advances towards inhibiting Ras activity with small molecules, highlighting the two approaches: (i) compounds that bind directly to Ras protein and (ii) inhibitors of the enzymes involved in the post-translational modifications of Ras. In the former, we analyze the most recent contributions in each of the main classes of Ras direct binders, including the different types of nucleotide exchange inhibitors, allosteric compounds, and molecules that interfere with the interaction between Ras and its effectors. In the latter, we examine the compounds that inhibit Ras activation by blocking any of its post-translational modifications. Also, a special focus is made on those molecules that have progressed the farthest from medicinal chemistry and drug development points of view. Finally, the current scene regarding the clinical trials of Ras inhibitors, together with the future promising avenues for further development of the challenging Ras field are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagore I Marín-Ramos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Department of Organic Chemistry I, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Av. Complutense s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María L López-Rodríguez
- Department of Organic Chemistry I, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Av. Complutense s/n, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
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