Unliganded epidermal growth factor receptor dimerization induced by direct interaction of quinazolines with the ATP binding site

Roles of epidermal growth factor receptor, claudin-1 and occludin in multi-step entry of hepatitis C virus into polarized hepatoma spheroids

The multi-step process of hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry is facilitated by various host factors, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the tight junction proteins claudin-1 (CLDN1) and occludin (OCLN), which are thought to function at later stages of the HCV entry process. Using single particle imaging of HCV infection of polarized hepatoma spheroids, we observed that EGFR performs multiple functions in HCV entry, both phosphorylation-dependent and -independent. We previously observed, and in this study confirmed, that EGFR is not required for HCV migration to the tight junction. EGFR is required for the recruitment of clathrin to HCV in a phosphorylation-independent manner. EGFR phosphorylation is required for virion internalization at a stage following the recruitment of clathrin. HCV entry activates the RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway downstream of EGFR phosphorylation. This signaling pathway regulates the sorting and maturation of internalized HCV into APPL1- and EEA1-associated early endosomes, which form the site of virion uncoating. The tight junction proteins, CLDN1 and OCLN, function at two distinct stages of HCV entry. Despite its appreciated function as a "late receptor" in HCV entry, CLDN1 is required for efficient HCV virion accumulation at the tight junction. Huh-7.5 cells lacking CLDN1 accumulate HCV virions primarily at the initial basolateral surface. OCLN is required for the late stages of virion internalization. This study produced further insight into the unusually complex HCV endocytic process.

Intrinsically Fluorescent Anti-Cancer Drugs

At present, about one-third of the total protein targets in the pharmaceutical research sector are kinase-based. While kinases have been attractive targets to combat many diseases, including cancer, selective kinase inhibition has been challenging, because of the high degree of structural homology in the active site where many kinase inhibitors bind. Despite efficacy as cancer drugs, kinase inhibitors can exhibit limited target specificity and rationalizing their target profiles in the context of precise molecular mechanisms or rearrangements is a major challenge for the field. Spectroscopic approaches such as infrared, Raman, NMR and fluorescence have the potential to provide significant insights into drug-target and drug-non-target interactions because of sensitivity to molecular environment. This review places a spotlight on the significance of fluorescence for extracting information related to structural properties, discovery of hidden conformers in solution and in target-bound state, binding properties (e.g., location of binding sites, hydrogen-bonding, hydrophobicity), kinetics as well as dynamics of kinase inhibitors. It is concluded that the information gleaned from an understanding of the intrinsic fluorescence from these classes of drugs may aid in the development of future drugs with improved side-effects and less disease resistance.

Evaluation of Site-Diversified, Fully Functionalized Diazirine Probes for Chemical Proteomic Applications

A series of site-diversified, fully functionalized diazirine probes are constructed based on a scaffold shared by several marketed EGFR-targeted drugs. The integrated analysis of protein targets of site-diversified probe toolkit...

Epidermal growth factor receptor activity upregulates lactate dehydrogenase A expression, lactate dehydrogenase activity, and lactate secretion in cultured IB3-1 cystic fibrosis lung epithelial cells

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. It has been postulated that reduced HCO₃^- transport through CFTR may lead to a decreased airway surface liquid pH. In contrast, others have reported no changes in the extracellular pH (pHe). We have recently reported that in carcinoma Caco-2/pRS26 cells (transfected with short hairpin RNA for CFTR) or CF lung epithelial IB3-1 cells, the mutation in CFTR decreased mitochondrial complex I activity and increased lactic acid production, owing to an autocrine IL-1β loop. The secreted lactate accounted for the reduced pHe, because oxamate fully restored the pHe. These effects were attributed to the IL-1β autocrine loop and the downstream signaling kinases c-Src and JNK. Here we show that the pHe of IB3-1 cells can be restored to normal values (∼7.4) by incubation with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, HER1, ErbB1) inhibitors AG1478 and PD168393. PD168393 fully restored the pHe values of IB3-1 cells, suggesting that the reduced pHe is mainly due to increased EGFR activity and lactate. Also, in IB3-1 cells, lactate dehydrogenase A mRNA, protein expression, and activity are downregulated when EGFR is inhibited. Thus, a constitutive EGFR activation seems to be responsible for the reduced pHe in IB3-1 cells.

Structural studies of full-length receptor tyrosine kinases and their implications for drug design

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are important drug targets for cancer and immunological disorders. Crystal structures of individual RTK domains have contributed greatly to the structure-based drug design of clinically used drugs. Low-resolution structures from electron microscopy are now available for the RTKs, EGFR, PDGFR, and Kit. However, there are still no high-resolution structures of full-length RTKs due to the technical challenges of working with these complex, membrane proteins. Here, we review what has been learned from structural studies of these three RTKs regarding their mechanisms of ligand binding, activation, oligomerization, and inhibition. We discuss the implications for drug design. More structural data on full-length RTKs may facilitate the discovery of druggable sites and drugs with improved specificity and effectiveness against resistant mutants.

Human vascular endothelial cells express epithelial growth factor in response to infection by Bartonella bacilliformis

Bartonella are Gram-negative bacterial pathogens that trigger pathological angiogenesis during infection of humans. Bartonella bacilliformis (Bb) is a neglected tropical agent endemic to South America, where it causes Carrión’s disease. Little is known about Bb’s virulence determinants or how the pathogen elicits hyperproliferation of the vasculature, culminating in Peruvian warts (verruga peruana) of the skin. In this study, we determined that active infection of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by live Bb induced host cell secretion of epidermal growth factor (EGF) using ELISA. Killed bacteria or lysates of various Bb strains did not cause EGF production, suggesting that an active infection was necessary for the response. Bb also caused hyperproliferation of infected HUVECs, and the mitogenic response could be inhibited by the EGF-receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, AG1478. Bb strains engineered to overexpress recombinant GroEL, evoked greater EGF production and hyperproliferation of HUVECs compared to control strains. Conditioned (spent) media from cultured HUVECs that had been previously infected by Bb were found to be mitogenic for naïve HUVECs, and the response could be inhibited by EGFR blocking with AG1478. Bb cells and cell lysates stimulated HUVEC migration and capillary-like tube formation in transmigration and Matrigel assays, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of EGF production by Bb-infected endothelial cells; an association that could contribute to hyperproliferation of the vascular bed during bartonellosis.

Bartonella are bacteria that infect the circulatory system and, unlike other bacteria, cause blood vessels to grow uncontrollably in the skin, spleen and liver of humans. In many respects, the process resembles the aberrant blood vessel formation that occurs during tumor formation. This study found that when Bartonella bacilliformis (Bb) infects vascular endothelial cells (VECs) that line the circulatory system, it causes them to overproduce a protein called epidermal growth factor (EGF) which, in turn, causes the cells to multiply more rapidly than usual. We also found that VECs migrate towards the bacterium and form capillary-like tubes; processes that occur during an actual infection. This cause-effect has not been previously reported, and it may help to explain the pathology observed in humans infected by Bb.

Analyses of the oncogenic BRAFD594G variant reveal a kinase-independent function of BRAF in activating MAPK signaling

Class 3 mutations in B-Raf proto-oncogene, Ser/Thr kinase (BRAF), that result in kinase-impaired or kinase-dead BRAF have the highest mutation frequency in BRAF gene in lung adenocarcinoma. Several studies have reported that kinase-dead BRAF variants amplify mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling by dimerizing with and activating WT C-Raf proto-oncogene, Ser/Thr kinase (CRAF). However, the structural and functional principles underlying their activation remain elusive. Herein, using cell biology and various biochemical approaches, we established that variant BRAF^D594G, a kinase-dead representative of class 3 mutation-derived BRAF variants, has a higher dimerization potential as compared with WT BRAF. Molecular dynamics simulations uncovered that the D594G substitution orients the αC-helix toward the IN position and extends the activation loop within the kinase domain, shifting the equilibrium toward the active, dimeric conformation, thus priming BRAF^D594G as an effective allosteric activator of CRAF. We found that B/CRAF heterodimers are the most thermodynamically stable RAF dimers, suggesting that RAF heterodimers, and not homodimers, are the major players in determining the amplitude of MAPK signaling in cells. Additionally, we show that BRAF^D594G:CRAF heterodimers bypass autoinhibitory P-loop phosphorylation, which might contribute to longer duration of MAPK pathway signaling in cancer cells. Last, we propose that the dimer interface of the BRAF^D594G:CRAF heterodimer may represent a promising target in the design of novel anticancer therapeutics.

Targeting Degradation of EGFR through the Allosteric Site Leads to Cancer Cell Detachment-Promoted Death

Targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) has been widely exploited to disrupt aberrant phosphorylation flux in cancer. However, a bottleneck of potent TKIs is the acquisition of drug resistance mutations, secondary effects, and low ability to attenuate tumor progression. We have developed an alternative means of targeting EGFR that relies on protein degradation through two consecutive routes, ultimately leading to cancer cell detachment-related death. We describe furfuryl derivatives of 4-allyl-5-[2-(4-alkoxyphenyl)-quinolin-4-yl]-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol that bind to and weakly inhibit EGFR tyrosine phosphorylation and induce strong endocytic degradation of the receptor in cancer cells. The compound-promoted depletion of EGFR resulted in the sequestration of non-phosphorylated Bim, which no longer ensured the integrity of the cytoskeleton machinery, as shown by the detachment of cancer cells from the extracellular matrix (ECM). Of particular note, the longer CH₃(CH₂)n chains in the terminal moiety of the anti-EGFR molecules confer higher hydrophobicity in the allosteric site located in the immediate vicinity of the catalytic pocket. Small compounds accelerated and enhanced EGFR and associated proteins degradation during EGF and/or glutamine starvation of cultures, thereby demonstrating high potency in killing cancer cells by simultaneously modulating signaling and metabolic pathways. We propose a plausible mechanism of anti-cancer action by small degraders through the allosteric site of EGFR. Our data represent a rational and promising perspective in the treatment of aggressive tumors.

Allosteric regulation of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor ligand binding by tyrosine kinase inhibitors

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor is a classical receptor tyrosine kinase with an extracellular ligand-binding domain and an intracellular kinase domain. Mutations in the EGF receptor have been shown to drive uncontrolled cell growth and are associated with a number of different tumors. Two different types of ATP-competitive EGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been identified that bind to either the active (type I) or inactive (type II) conformation of the kinase domain. Despite the fact that both types of inhibitors block tyrosine kinase activity, they exhibit differential efficacies in different tumor types. Here, we show that in addition to inhibiting kinase activity, these inhibitors allosterically modulate ligand binding. Our data suggest that the conformations of the EGF receptor extracellular domain and intracellular kinase domain are coupled and that these conformations exist in equilibrium. Allosteric regulators, such as the small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, as well as mutations in the EGF receptor itself, shift the conformational equilibrium among the active and inactive species, leading to changes in EGF receptor-binding affinity. Our studies also reveal unexpected positive cooperativity between EGF receptor subunits in dimers formed in the presence of type II inhibitors. These findings indicate that there is strong functional coupling between the intracellular and extracellular domains of this receptor. Such coupling may impact the therapeutic synergy between small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies in vivo.

Inhibitor-induced HER2-HER3 heterodimerisation promotes proliferation through a novel dimer interface

While targeted therapy against HER2 is an effective first-line treatment in HER2+ breast cancer, acquired resistance remains a clinical challenge. The pseudokinase HER3, heterodimerisation partner of HER2, is widely implicated in the resistance to HER2-mediated therapy. Here, we show that lapatinib, an ATP-competitive inhibitor of HER2, is able to induce proliferation cooperatively with the HER3 ligand neuregulin. This counterintuitive synergy between inhibitor and growth factor depends on their ability to promote atypical HER2-HER3 heterodimerisation. By stabilising a particular HER2 conformer, lapatinib drives HER2-HER3 kinase domain heterocomplex formation. This dimer exists in a head-to-head orientation distinct from the canonical asymmetric active dimer. The associated clustering observed for these dimers predisposes to neuregulin responses, affording a proliferative outcome. Our findings provide mechanistic insights into the liabilities involved in targeting kinases with ATP-competitive inhibitors and highlight the complex role of protein conformation in acquired resistance.

Pharmacology of Epidermal Growth Factor Inhibitors

Research into the molecular bases of malignant diseases has yielded the development of many novel agents with potential antitumor activity. Evidence for a causative role for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is now regarded as an excellent target for cancer chemotherapy in human cancer, leads to the development of EGFR inhibitors. Two classes of anti-EGFR agents are currently in clinical use: monoclonal antibodies directed at the extracellular domain of the receptor, and the low-molecular-weight receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors acting intracellularly by competing with adenosine triphosphate for binding to the tyrosine kinase portion of the EGFR. The effect on the receptor interferes with key biological functions including cell cycle arrest, potentiation of apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis and cell invasion and metastasis. Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody, and the receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors gefitinib and erlotinib are currently approved for the treatment of patients with cancer. New agents with clinical activity are entering the clinic, and new combinatorial approaches are being explored with the aim of improving the potency and pharmacokinetics of EGFR inhibition, to increase the synergistic activity in combination with chemotherapy and overcome resistance to the EGFR inhibitors.

EGFR Trafficking in Physiology and Cancer

Signaling from the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) elicits multiple biological responses, including cell proliferation, migration, and survival. Receptor endocytosis and trafficking are critical physiological processes that control the strength, duration, diversification, and spatial restriction of EGFR signaling through multiple mechanisms, which we review in this chapter. These mechanisms include: (i) regulation of receptor density and activation at the cell surface; (ii) concentration of receptors into distinct nascent endocytic structures; (iii) commitment of the receptor to different endocytic routes; (iv) endosomal sorting and postendocytic trafficking of the receptor through distinct pathways, and (v) recycling to restricted regions of the cell surface. We also highlight how communication between organelles controls EGFR activity along the endocytic route. Finally, we illustrate how abnormal trafficking of EGFR oncogenic mutants, as well as alterations of the endocytic machinery, contributes to aberrant EGFR signaling in cancer.

Emerging functions of the EGFR in cancer

The physiological function of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is to regulate epithelial tissue development and homeostasis. In pathological settings, mostly in lung and breast cancer and in glioblastoma, the EGFR is a driver of tumorigenesis. Inappropriate activation of the EGFR in cancer mainly results from amplification and point mutations at the genomic locus, but transcriptional upregulation or ligand overproduction due to autocrine/paracrine mechanisms has also been described. Moreover, the EGFR is increasingly recognized as a biomarker of resistance in tumors, as its amplification or secondary mutations have been found to arise under drug pressure. This evidence, in addition to the prominent function that this receptor plays in normal epithelia, has prompted intense investigations into the role of the EGFR both at physiological and at pathological level. Despite the large body of knowledge obtained over the last two decades, previously unrecognized (herein defined as 'noncanonical') functions of the EGFR are currently emerging. Here, we will initially review the canonical ligand-induced EGFR signaling pathway, with particular emphasis to its regulation by endocytosis and subversion in human tumors. We will then focus on the most recent advances in uncovering noncanonical EGFR functions in stress-induced trafficking, autophagy, and energy metabolism, with a perspective on future therapeutic applications.

Tyrphostin AG1478 Inhibits Encephalomyocarditis Virus and Hepatitis C Virus by Targeting Phosphatidylinositol 4-Kinase IIIα

Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), like hepatitis C virus (HCV), requires phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase IIIα (PI4KA) for genome replication. Here, we demonstrate that tyrphostin AG1478, a known epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, also inhibits PI4KA activity, both in vitro and in cells. AG1478 impaired replication of EMCV and HCV but not that of an EMCV mutant previously shown to escape PI4KA inhibition. This work uncovers novel cellular and antiviral properties of AG1478, a compound previously regarded only as a cancer chemotherapy agent.

UV-Vis spectroscopy and solvatochromism of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG-1478

The effect of twenty-one solvents on the UV-Vis spectrum of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG-1478 was investigated. The absorption spectrum in the range 300-360nm consisted of two partially overlapping bands at approximately 340nm and 330nm. The higher energy absorption band was more sensitive to solvent and exhibited a peak position that varied from 327nm to 336nm, while the lower energy absorption band demonstrated a change in peak position from 340nm to 346nm in non-chlorinated solvents. The fluorescence spectrum of AG-1478 was particularly sensitive to solvent. The wavelength of peak intensity varied from 409nm to 495nm with the corresponding Stokes shift in the range of 64nm to 155nm (4536cm(-1) to 9210cm(-1)). We used a number of methods to assess the relationship between spectroscopic properties and solvent properties. The detailed analysis revealed that for aprotic solvents, the peak position of the emission spectrum in wavenumber scale correlated with the polarity (dielectric constant or ET(30)) of the solvent. In protic solvents, a better correlation was observed between the hydrogen bonding power of the solvent and the position of the emission spectrum. Moreover, the fluorescence quantum yields were larger in aprotic solvents as compared to protic solvents. This analysis underscores the importance of polarity and hydrogen-bonding environment on the spectroscopic properties of AG-1478. These studies will assume relevance in understanding the interaction of AG-1478 in vitro and in vivo.

Activation of EGFR by small compounds through coupling the generation of hydrogen peroxide to stable dimerization of Cu/Zn SOD1

Activation of cell signaling by reactive chemicals and pollutants is an important issue for human health. It has been shown that lipophilic nitro-benzoxadiazole (NBD) compounds rapidly move across the plasma membrane and enhance Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) tyrosine phosphorylation in cancer cells. Unlike ligand-dependent activation, the mechanism of this induction relies on the generation of hydrogen peroxide, which is involved in the activation of the catalytic site of the receptor and the inactivation of protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP-1B. Production of H₂O₂ during redox transformation of NBD compounds is associated with the transition of a monomeric form of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) to stable dimers. The highly stable and functionally active SOD1 dimer, in the absence of adequate activities in downstream reactions, promotes the disproportionate production and accumulation of intracellular hydrogen peroxide shortly after exposure to NBD compounds. The intrinsic fluorescence of small compounds was used to demonstrate their binding to SOD1. Our data indicate that H₂O₂ and concomitantly generated electrophilic intermediates behave as independent entities, but all contribute to the biological reactivity of NBD compounds. This study opens a promising path to identify new biomarkers of oxidative/electrophilic stress in the progression of cancer and other diseases.

A point mutation in the extracellular domain of KIT promotes tumorigenesis of mast cells via ligand-independent auto-dimerization

Mutations in the juxtamembrane and tyrosine kinase domains of the KIT receptor have been implicated in several cancers and are known to promote tumorigenesis. However, the pathophysiological manifestations of mutations in the extracellular domain remain unknown. In this study, we examined the impact of a mutation in the extracellular domain of KIT on mast cell tumorigenesis. A KIT mutant with an Asn508Ile variation (N508I) in the extracellular domain derived from a canine mast cell tumor was introduced into IC-2 cells. The IC-2(N508I) cells proliferated in a cytokine-independent manner and showed KIT auto-phosphorylation. Subcutaneous injection of IC-2(N508I) cells into the dorsal area of immunodeficient BALB/c-nu/nu mice resulted in the formation of solid tumors, but tumor progression was abrogated by treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (STI571). In addition, the N508I mutant KIT protein dimerized in the absence of the natural ligand, stem cell factor. Structure modeling indicates that the increased hydrophobicity of the mutant led to the stabilization of KIT dimers. These results suggest that this extracellular domain mutation confers a ligand-independent tumorigenic phenotype to mast cells by KIT auto-dimerization that is STI571-sensitive. This is the first report demonstrating the tumorigenic potential of a mutation in the extracellular domain of KIT.

Glioma-specific Domain IV EGFR cysteine mutations promote ligand-induced covalent receptor dimerization and display enhanced sensitivity to dacomitinib in vivo

A feature of many gliomas is the amplification of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), resulting in its overexpression. Missense mutations or deletions within the extracellular domain are associated with this amplification and can lead to constitutive activation of the receptor, with the Domain I/II deletion, EGFRvIII, being the most common. These changes have also been associated with increased sensitivity to EGFR inhibition using small molecule inhibitors. We have expressed, in human glioma cells, EGFR containing four glioma-specific EGFR missense mutations within Domain IV (C620Y, C624F, C628Y and C636Y) to analyze their biological properties and sensitivity to EGFR inhibition. One of these mutants, C620Y, exhibited an enhanced basal phosphorylation, which was partially dependent on an EGFR-ligand autocrine loop. All Domain IV mutants responded equally as well as wildtype EGFR (wtEGFR) to ligand stimulation. Biochemical analysis revealed that a pre-formed, disulfide-bonded dimer associated with these mutations was underglycosylated, inactive and cytoplasmically retained. Ligand stimulation resulted in the formation of a tyrosine-phosphorylated, disulfide-bonded dimer for all Domain IV mutants but not for wtEGFR. Following treatment with the next-generation, irreversible pan-ErbB inhibitor dacomitinib, the C620Y, C624F and EGFRvIII mutants were inactivated, covalently dimerized and were retained in the cytoplasm, resulting in cell-surface receptor loss and, for C620Y and C624F, decreased binding of EGF. Dacomitinib treatment significantly reduced the in vivo growth of human glioma xenografts bearing C620Y, but not wtEGFR. Collectively, these data indicate that the unique biochemical traits of Domain IV EGFR cysteine mutants can be exploited for enhanced sensitivity to EGFR small molecule inhibitors, with potential clinical applications.

Kinases and pseudokinases: lessons from RAF

Protein kinases are thought to mediate their biological effects through their catalytic activity. The large number of pseudokinases in the kinome and an increasing appreciation that they have critical roles in signaling pathways, however, suggest that catalyzing protein phosphorylation may not be the only function of protein kinases. Using the principle of hydrophobic spine assembly, we interpret how kinases are capable of performing a dual function in signaling. Its first role is that of a signaling enzyme (classical kinases; canonical), while its second role is that of an allosteric activator of other kinases or as a scaffold protein for signaling in a manner that is independent of phosphoryl transfer (classical pseudokinases; noncanonical). As the hydrophobic spines are a conserved feature of the kinase domain itself, all kinases carry an inherent potential to play both roles in signaling. This review focuses on the recent lessons from the RAF kinases that effectively toggle between these roles and can be "frozen" by introducing mutations at their hydrophobic spines.

Screening and discovery of nitro-benzoxadiazole compounds activating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in cancer cells

Peptide ligand-induced dimerization of the extracellular region of the epidermal growth factor receptor (sEGFR) is central to the signal transduction of many cellular processes. A small molecule microarray screen has been developed to search for non-peptide compounds able to bind to sEGFR. We describe the discovery of nitro-benzoxadiazole (NBD) compounds that enhance tyrosine phosphorylation of EGFR and thereby trigger downstream signaling pathways and other receptor tyrosine kinases in cancer cells. The protein phosphorylation profile in cells exposed to NBD compounds is to some extent reminiscent of the profile induced by the cognate ligand. Experimental studies indicate that the small compounds bind to the dimerization domain of sEGFR, and generate stable dimers providing allosteric activation of the receptor. Moreover, receptor phosphorylation is associated with inhibition of PTP-1B phosphatase. Our data offer a promising paradigm for investigating new aspects of signal transduction mediated by EGFR in cancer cells exposed to electrophilic NBD compounds.

Inactive ERBB receptors cooperate with reactive oxygen species to suppress cancer progression

The ERBB receptors are a family of heterodimerization partners capable of driving transformation and metastasis. While the therapeutic targeting of single receptors has proven efficacious, optimal targeting of this receptor family should target all oncogenic members simultaneously. The juxtamembrane domains of ERBB1, ERBB2, and ERBB3 are highly conserved and control various aspects of ERBB-dependent biology. In an effort to block those functions, we have targeted this domain with decoy peptides synthesized in tandem with a cell-penetrating peptide, termed EJ1. Treatment with EJ1 induces cell death, promotes the formation of inactive ERBB multimers, and results in simultaneous reduction of ERBB1, ERBB2, and ERBB3 activation. Treatment also results in the activation of myosin light chain-dependent cell blebbing while inactivating CaMKII signaling, coincident with the induction of cell death. EJ1 also directly translocates to mitochondria, correlating with a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and production of reactive oxygen species. Finally, treatment of a mouse model of breast cancer with EJ1 results in the inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis without associated toxicities in normal cells. Overall, these data demonstrate that a portion of the ERBB jxm domain, when used as an intracellular decoy, can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, representing a novel anticancer therapeutic.

Dynamic analysis of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor-ErbB2-ErbB3 protein network by luciferase fragment complementation imaging

ErbB3 is a member of the ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases. It is unique because it is the only member of the family whose kinase domain is defective. As a result, it is obliged to form heterodimers with other ErbB receptors to signal. In this study, we characterized the interaction of ErbB3 with the EGF receptor and ErbB2 and assessed the effects of Food and Drug Administration-approved therapeutic agents on these interactions. Our findings support the concept that ErbB3 exists in preformed clusters that can be dissociated by NRG-1β and that it interacts with other ErbB receptors in a distinctly hierarchical fashion. Our study also shows that all pairings of the EGF receptor, ErbB2, and ErbB3 form ligand-independent dimers/oligomers. The small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors erlotinib and lapatinib differentially enhance the dimerization of the various ErbB receptor pairings, with the EGFR/ErbB3 heterodimer being particularly sensitive to the effects of erlotinib. The data suggest that the physiological effects of these drugs may involve not only inhibition of tyrosine kinase activity but also a dynamic restructuring of the entire network of receptors.

Significant increase in hEGF uptake is correlated with formation of EGFR dimers induced by the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib

Purpose

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib (ZD1839, Iressa) is approved for cancer treatment. We investigated whether gefitinib treatment can enhance human EGF (hEGF) uptake in vitro, thereby increasing the potential of hEGF as a vehicle for EGFR-targeted therapy.

Methods

Western blotting was used to detect the effect of gefitinib on EGFR signaling. Different EGFR-expressing tumor cells (SCC-1, 22B, A549, and HT-29) were pretreated with gefitinib, and then with ¹²⁵I-hEGF or ¹²⁵I-Vectibix (an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody). Cell-associated activity was then measured. A cross-linking assay detected increased EGFR dimer formation in gefitinib-treated cells.

Results

Total EGFR levels were not changed, but EGFR phosphorylation was reduced in cells pretreated with gefitinib. Gefitinib mediated formation of EGFR dimers; binding of ¹²⁵I-hEGF to cells pretreated with gefitinib significantly increased. In contrast, binding of ¹²⁵I-Vectibix to tumor cells did not increase. Although total EGFR levels did not increase, binding of hEGF to EGFR + tumors was significantly enhanced after gefitinib treatment, because of increased hEGF binding to gefitinib-induced EGFR dimers.

Conclusion

These results suggest that hEGF could enhance EGFR-targeting when used with gefitinib.

Resolving the EGF-EGFR interaction characteristics through a multiple-temperature, multiple-inhibitor, real-time interaction analysis approach

Overexpression and aberrant activity of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) have been observed in various cancer types, rendering it an important target in oncology research. The interaction between EGF and its receptor (EGFR), as well as subsequent internalization, is complex and may be affected by various factors including tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). By combining real-time binding curves produced in LigandTracer^® with internalization assays conducted at different temperatures and with different TKIs, the processes of ligand binding, internalization and excretion was visualized. SKOV3 cells had a slower excretion rate compared to A431 and U343 cells, and the tested TKIs (gefitinib, lapatinib, AG1478 and erlotinib) reduced the degree of internalization. The kinetic analysis of the binding curves further demonstrated TKI-dependent balances of EGFR monomer and dimer populations, where lapatinib promoted the monomeric form, while the other TKIs induced dimers. The dimer levels were found to be associated with the apparent affinity of the EGF-EGFR interaction, with EGF binding stronger to EGFR dimers compared to monomers. This study analyzed how real-time molecular interaction analysis may be utilized in combination with perturbations in order to understand the kinetics of a ligand-receptor interaction, as well as some of its associated intracellular processes. Our multiple-temperature and -inhibitor assay setup renders it possible to follow the EGFR monomer, dimer and internalized populations in a detailed manner, allowing for a new perspective of the EGFR biology.

Mechanisms for kinase-mediated dimerization of the epidermal growth factor receptor

We study a mechanism by which dimerization of the EGF receptor (EGFR) cytoplasmic domain is transmitted to the ectodomain. Therapeutic and other small molecule antagonists to the kinase domain that stabilize its active conformation, but not those that stabilize an inactive conformation, stabilize ectodomain dimerization. Inhibitor-induced dimerization requires an asymmetric kinase domain interface associated with activation. EGF and kinase inhibitors stimulate formation of identical dimer interfaces in the EGFR transmembrane domain, as shown by disulfide cross-linking. Disulfide cross-linking at an interface in domain IV in the ectodomain was also stimulated similarly; however, EGF but not inhibitors stimulated cross-linking in domain II. Inhibitors similarly induced noncovalent dimerization in nearly full-length, detergent-solubilized EGFR as shown by gel filtration. EGFR ectodomain deletion resulted in spontaneous dimerization, whereas deletion of exons 2-7, in which extracellular domains III and IV are retained, did not. In EM, kinase inhibitor-induced dimers lacked any well defined orientation between the ectodomain monomers. Fab of the therapeutic antibody cetuximab to domain III confirmed a variable position and orientation of this domain in inhibitor-induced dimers but suggested that the C termini of domain IV of the two monomers were in close proximity, consistent with dimerization in the transmembrane domains. The results provide insights into the relative energetics of intracellular and extracellular dimerization in EGFR and have significance for physiologic dimerization through the asymmetric kinase interface, bidirectional signal transmission in EGFR, and mechanism of action of therapeutics.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors as modulators of ABC transporter-mediated drug resistance

Tyrosine kinases (TKs) are involved in key signaling events/pathways that regulate cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and metastasis. Deregulated activity of TKs has been implicated in several types of cancers. In recent years, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been developed to inhibit specific kinases whose constitutive activity results in specific cancer types. These TKIs have been found to demonstrate effective anticancer activity and some of them have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for clinical use or are in clinical trials. However, these targeted therapeutic agents are also transported by ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, resulting in altered pharmacokinetics or development of resistance to these drugs in cancer patients. This review covers the recent findings on the interactions of clinically important TKIs with ABC drug transporters. Future research efforts in the development of novel TKIs with specific targets, seeking improved activity, should consider these underlying causes of resistance to TKIs in cancer cells.

The membrane-proximal intracellular domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor underlies negative cooperativity in ligand binding

The binding of EGF induces dimerization of its receptor, leading to the stimulation of its intracellular tyrosine kinase activity. Kinase activation occurs within the context of an asymmetric dimer in which one kinase domain serves as the activator for the other kinase domain but is not itself activated. How ligand binding is related to the formation and dynamics of this asymmetric dimer is not known. The binding of EGF to its receptor is negatively cooperative--that is, EGF binds with lower affinity to the second site on the dimer than to the first site on the dimer. In this study, we analyzed the binding of (125)I-EGF to a series of EGF receptor mutants in the intracellular juxtamembrane domain and demonstrate that the most membrane-proximal portion of this region plays a significant role in the genesis of negative cooperativity in the EGF receptor. The data are consistent with a model in which the binding of EGF to the first site on the dimer induces the formation of one asymmetric kinase dimer. The binding of EGF to the second site is required to disrupt the initial asymmetric dimer and allow the formation of the reciprocal asymmetric dimer. Thus, some of the energy of binding to the second site is used to reorient the first asymmetric dimer, leading to a lower binding affinity and the observed negative cooperativity.

Receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors and cytotoxic drugs affect pleural mesothelioma cell proliferation: insight into EGFR and ERK1/2 as antitumor targets

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive chemotherapy-resistant cancer. Up-regulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in MPM development and EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may represent novel therapeutic options. We tested the effects of the EGFR TKIs gefitinib and erlotinib and TKIs targeted to other growth factors (VEGFR and PDGFR), in comparison to standard antineoplastic agents, in two human MPM cell lines, IST-Mes2 and ZL55. All drugs showed IC(50) values in the micromolar range: TKIs induced cytostatic effects at concentrations up to the IC(50,) while conventional drug growth-inhibitory activity was mainly cytotoxic. Moreover, the treatment of IST-Mes2 with TKIs (gefitinib and imatinib mesylate) in combination with cisplatin and gemcitabine did not show additivity. Focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of EGFR-TKIs, we observed that gefitinib induced the formation and stabilization of inactive EGFR homodimers, even in absence of EGF, as demonstrated by EGFR B(max) and number of sites/cell. The analysis of downstream effectors of EGFR signaling demonstrated that EGF-induced proliferation, reverted by gefitinib, involved ERK1/2 activation, independently from Akt pathway. Gefitinib inhibits MPM cell growth and survival, preventing EGF-dependent activation of ERK1/2 pathway by blocking EGFR-TK phosphorylation and stabilizing inactive EGFR dimers. Along with the molecular definition of TKIs pharmacological efficacy in vitro, these results may contribute to delve deep into the promising but still controversial role for targeted and conventional drugs in the therapy of MPM.

Quantitative assays for the measurement of HER1-HER2 heterodimerization and phosphorylation in cell lines and breast tumors: applications for diagnostics and targeted drug mechanism of action

Introduction

Ligand-bound and phosphorylated ErbB/HER heterodimers are potent signaling forms of this receptor family, and quantitative measurements of these active receptors may be predictive of patient response to targeted therapies. Using VeraTag™ technology, we developed and characterized quantitative assays measuring epidermal growth factor (EGF)-dependent increases in activated HER receptors in tumor cell line lysates and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor sections. We demonstrated the ability of the assays to quantitatively measure changes in activated HER1 and HER2 receptor levels in cell lines following treatment with 2C4, erlotinib, and lapatinib. We utilized these assays to determine the prevalence and distribution of activated HER1, HER2, and HER1-HER2 heterodimers in 43 HER2-positive breast tumors.

Methods

Assays for activated HER1 and HER2 receptors in FFPE and cell lysate formats were developed using VeraTag™ technology, which requires the proximity of an antibody pair for light-dependent release of a fluorescently labeled tag, followed by capillary electrophoresis-based quantitation.

Results

Ligand-dependent and independent HER1-HER2 heterodimer levels measured by lysate and FFPE VeraTag™ assays trended with HER1 and HER2 expression levels in tumor cell lines, which was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation. The formation of EGF-dependent HER1-HER2 heterodimers were inhibited by the HER2-targeted monoclonal antibody 2C4 and stabilized by the HER1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) erlotinib. EGF-dependent HER1 and HER2 phosphorylation was inhibited by lapatinib and erlotinib. Further, we observed that dominant receptor signaling patterns may switch between HER1-HER1 and HER1-HER2, depending on drug mechanism of action and relative levels of HER receptors. In FFPE breast tumors that expressed both HER1 and HER2, HER1-HER2 heterodimers were detected in 25 to 50% of tumors, depending on detection method. The levels of activated phospho-HER1-HER2 heterodimers correlated with HER1 or HER2 levels in an analysis of 43 HER2-positive breast tumors.

Conclusions

VeraTag™ lysate assays can be used as a tool for understanding the mechanism of action of targeted HER-family inhibitors in the preclinical setting, while VeraTag™ FFPE assays of activated HER receptors combined with total HER2 measurements (HERmark^®) in tumor samples may provide a more accurate prediction of clinical response to both HER1 and HER2 targeted therapies.

Time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) to analyze the disruption of EGFR/HER2 dimers: a new method to evaluate the efficiency of targeted therapy using monoclonal antibodies

In oncology, simultaneous inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER2 by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is an efficient therapeutic strategy but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we describe a time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) method to quantify EGFR/HER2 heterodimers on cell surface to shed some light on the mechanism of such therapies. First, we tested this antibody-based TR-FRET assay in NIH/3T3 cell lines that express EGFR and/or HER2 and in various tumor cell lines. Then, we used the antibody-based TR-FRET assay to evaluate in vitro the effect of different targeted therapies on EGFR/HER2 heterodimers in the ovarian carcinoma cell line SKOV-3. A simultaneous incubation with Cetuximab (anti-EGFR) and Trastuzumab (anti-HER2) disturbed EGFR/HER2 heterodimers resulting in a 72% reduction. Cetuximab, Trastuzumab or Pertuzumab (anti-HER2) alone induced a 48, 44, or 24% reduction, respectively. In contrast, the tyrosine kinase inhibitors Erlotinib and Lapatinib had very little effect on EGFR/HER2 dimers concentration. In vivo, the combination of Cetuximab and Trastuzumab showed a better therapeutic effect (median survival and percentage of tumor-free mice) than the single mAbs. These results suggest a correlation between the extent of the mAb-induced EGFR/HER2 heterodimer reduction and the efficacy of such mAbs in targeted therapies. In conclusion, quantifying EGFR/HER2 heterodimers using our antibody-based TR-FRET assay may represent a useful method to predict the efficacy and explain the mechanisms of action of therapeutic mAbs, in addition to other commonly used techniques that focus on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, phosphorylation, and cell proliferation.

Time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) to analyze the disruption of EGFR/HER2 dimers: a new method to evaluate the efficiency of targeted therapy using monoclonal antibodies

In oncology, simultaneous inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER2 by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is an efficient therapeutic strategy but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we describe a time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) method to quantify EGFR/HER2 heterodimers on cell surface to shed some light on the mechanism of such therapies. First, we tested this antibody-based TR-FRET assay in NIH/3T3 cell lines that express EGFR and/or HER2 and in various tumor cell lines. Then, we used the antibody-based TR-FRET assay to evaluate in vitro the effect of different targeted therapies on EGFR/HER2 heterodimers in the ovarian carcinoma cell line SKOV-3. A simultaneous incubation with Cetuximab (anti-EGFR) and Trastuzumab (anti-HER2) disturbed EGFR/HER2 heterodimers resulting in a 72% reduction. Cetuximab, Trastuzumab or Pertuzumab (anti-HER2) alone induced a 48, 44, or 24% reduction, respectively. In contrast, the tyrosine kinase inhibitors Erlotinib and Lapatinib had very little effect on EGFR/HER2 dimers concentration. In vivo, the combination of Cetuximab and Trastuzumab showed a better therapeutic effect (median survival and percentage of tumor-free mice) than the single mAbs. These results suggest a correlation between the extent of the mAb-induced EGFR/HER2 heterodimer reduction and the efficacy of such mAbs in targeted therapies. In conclusion, quantifying EGFR/HER2 heterodimers using our antibody-based TR-FRET assay may represent a useful method to predict the efficacy and explain the mechanisms of action of therapeutic mAbs, in addition to other commonly used techniques that focus on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, phosphorylation, and cell proliferation.

Kinase-mediated quasi-dimers of EGFR

Ligand-induced dimerization of the epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB-1/EGFR) involves conformational changes that expose an extracellular dimerization interface. Subsequent alterations within the cytoplasmic kinase domain, which culminate in tyrosine phosphorylation, are less understood. Our study addressed this question by using two strategies: a chimeric receptor approach employed ErbB-3, whose defective kinase domain was replaced by the respective part of EGFR. The implanted full-length kinase, unlike its subdomains, conferred dimerization and catalysis. The data infer that the kinase function of EGFR is restrained by the carboxyl tail; once grafted distally to the ectopic tail of ErbB-3, the kinase domain acquires quasi-dimerization and activation. In an attempt to alternatively refold the cytoplasmic tail, our other approach employed kinase inhibitors. Biophysical measurements and covalent cross-linking analyses showed that inhibitors targeting the active conformation of EGFR, in contrast to a compound recognizing the inactive conformation, induce quasi-dimers in a manner similar to the chimeric ErbB-3 molecule. Collectively, these observations unveil kinase domain-mediated quasi-dimers, which are regulated by an autoinhibitory carboxyl tail. On the basis of these observations, we propose that quasi-dimers precede formation of ligand-induced, fully active dimers, which are stabilized by both extracellular and intracellular receptor-receptor interactions.

Synergistic effect of gefitinib and rofecoxib in mesothelioma cells

BACKGROUND

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive tumor that is resistant to conventional modes of treatment with chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Research into the molecular pathways involved in the development of MM should yield information that will guide therapeutic decisions. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) are involved in the carcinogenesis of MM. Combination of COX-2 and EGFR inhibitors, therefore, could be an effective strategy for reducing cell growth in those lines expressing the two molecular markers.

RESULTS

In order to verify the effect of COX-2 and EGFR inhibitors, five MM cell lines NCI-2452, MPP89, Ist-Mes-1, Ist-Mes-2 and MSTO-211 were characterized for COX-2 and EGFR and then treated with respective inhibitors (rofecoxib and gefitinib) alone and in combination. Only MPP89, Ist-Mes-1 and Ist-Mes-2 were sensitive to rofecoxib and showed growth-inhibition upon gefitinib treatment. The combination of two drugs demonstrated synergistic effects on cell killing only in Ist-Mes-2, the cell line that was more sensitive to gefitinib and rofecoxib alone. Down-regulation of COX-2, EGFR, p-EGFR and up-regulation of p21 and p27 were found in Ist-Mes-2, after treatment with single agents and in combination. In contrast, association of two drugs resulted in antagonistic effect in Ist-Mes-1 and MPP89. In these cell lines after rofecoxib exposition, only an evident reduction of p-AKT was observed. No change in p-AKT in Ist-Mes-1 and MPP89 was observed after treatment with gefitinib alone and in combination with rofecoxib.

CONCLUSIONS

Gefitinib and rofecoxib exert cell type-specific effects that vary between different MM cells. Total EGFR expression and downstream signalling does not correlate with gefitinib sensitivity. These data suggest that the effect of gefitinib can be potentiated by rofecoxib in MM cell lines where AKT is not activated.

Targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor in epithelial ovarian cancer: current knowledge and future challenges

The epidermal growth factor receptor is overexpressed in up to 60% of ovarian epithelial malignancies. EGFR regulates complex cellular events due to the large number of ligands, dimerization partners, and diverse signaling pathways engaged. In ovarian cancer, EGFR activation is associated with increased malignant tumor phenotype and poorer patient outcome. However, unlike some other EGFR-positive solid tumors, treatment of ovarian tumors with anti-EGFR agents has induced minimal response. While the amount of information regarding EGFR-mediated signaling is considerable, current data provides little insight for the lack of efficacy of anti-EGFR agents in ovarian cancer. More comprehensive, systematic, and well-defined approaches are needed to dissect the roles that EGFR plays in the complex signaling processes in ovarian cancer as well as to identify biomarkers that can accurately predict sensitivity toward EGFR-targeted therapeutic agents. This new knowledge could facilitate the development of rational combinatorial therapies to sensitize tumor cells toward EGFR-targeted therapies.

HER3 is required for the maintenance of neuregulin-dependent and -independent attributes of malignant progression in prostate cancer cells

HER3 (ERBB3) is a catalytically inactive pseudokinase of the HER receptor tyrosine kinase family, frequently overexpressed in prostate and other cancers. Aberrant expression and mutations of 2 other members of the family, EGFR and HER2, are key carcinogenic events in several types of tumors, and both are well- validated therapeutic targets. In this study, we show that HER3 is required to maintain the motile and invasive phenotypes of prostate (DU-145) and breast (MCF-7) cancer cells in response to the HER3 ligand neuregulin-1 (NRG-1), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fetal bovine serum. Although MCF-7 breast cancer cells appeared to require HER3 as part of an autocrine response induced by EGF and FBS, the response of DU-145 prostate cancer cells to these stimuli, while requiring HER3, did not appear to involve autocrine stimulation of the receptor. DU-145 cells required the expression of HER3 for efficient clonogenicity in vitro in standard growth medium and for tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice. These observations suggest that prostate cancer cells derived from tumors that overexpress HER3 are dependent on its expression for the maintenance of major attributes of neoplastic aggressiveness, with or without cognate ligand stimulation.

Cetuximab/C225-induced intracellular trafficking of epidermal growth factor receptor

The monoclonal antibody C225 interacts with the ectodomain of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) to block ligand binding and initiates receptor endocytosis and intracellular trafficking. The data herein show that C225-dependent EGFR trafficking relocalizes the receptor to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and nucleus. This mechanism, which also involves interaction of the C225-internalized receptor with the Sec61 translocon within the ER, is, in most respects, analogous to the pathway previously described for EGF-induced trafficking to the ER and nucleus. However, although inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinase activity blocks EGF-induced nuclear localization of the receptor, the same kinase inhibitors stimulate C225-dependent nuclear localization of EGFR in the nucleus. In contrast, the kinase inhibitor Lapatinib fails to stimulate nuclear accumulation of the receptor in C225-treated cells and does not provoke receptor dimerization as do inhibitors that recognize the open conformation of the receptor kinase. This suggests that inhibitor-dependent receptor dimerization may facilitate C225-induced receptor trafficking.

Neutrophil adhesion and activation under flow

Neutrophil recruitment into inflamed tissue in response to injury or infection is tightly regulated. Reduced neutrophil recruitment can result in a reduced ability to fight invading microorganisms. During inflammation, neutrophils roll along the endothelial wall of postcapillary venules and integrate inflammatory signals. Neutrophil activation by selectins and chemokines regulates integrin adhesiveness. Binding of activated integrins to their counter-receptors on endothelial cells induces neutrophil arrest and firm adhesion. Adherent neutrophils can be further activated to undergo cytoskeletal rearrangement, crawling, transmigration, superoxide production, and respiratory burst. Signaling through G-protein-coupled receptors, selectin ligands, Fc receptors and outside-in signaling through integrins are all involved in neutrophil activation, but their interplay in the multistep process of recruitment is only beginning to emerge. This review provides an overview of signaling in rolling and adherent neutrophils.

Antiangiogenic drugs: current knowledge and new approaches to cancer therapy

Angiogenesis--process of new blood-vessel growth from existing vasculature--is an integral part of both normal developmental processes and numerous pathologies such as cancer, ischemic diseases and chronic inflammation. Angiogenesis plays a crucial role facilitating tumour growth and the metastatic process, and it is the result of a dynamic balance between proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors. The potential to block tumour growth and metastases by angiogenesis inhibition represents an intriguing approach to the cancer treatment. Angiogenesis continues to be a topic of major scientific interest; and there are currently more antiangiogenic drugs in cancer clinical trials than those that fit into any other mechanistic category. Based on preclinical studies, researchers believe that targeting the blood vessels which support tumour growth could help treatment of a broad range of cancers. Angiogenic factors or their receptors, endothelial cell proliferation, matrix metalloproteinases or endothelial cell adhesion, are the main targets of an increasing number of clinical trials approved to test the tolerance and therapeutic efficacy of antiangiogenic agents. Unfortunately, contrary to initial expectations, it has been described that antiangiogenic treatment can cause different toxicities in cancer patients. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of current attempts to inhibit tumour angiogenesis for cancer therapy.

Luciferase fragment complementation imaging of conformational changes in the epidermal growth factor receptor

Crystal structures of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor suggest that its activation is associated with extensive conformational changes in both the extracellular and intracellular domains. However, evidence of these structural dynamics in intact cells has been lacking. Here we use luciferase complementation imaging to follow EGF-induced conformational changes in its receptor in real time in live cells. When the luciferase fragments are fused to the C terminus of an EGF receptor lacking the cytoplasmic domain, EGF stimulates a rapid increase in luciferase activity, consistent with ligand-induced receptor dimerization. However, when the luciferase fragments are fused to the C terminus of the full-length receptor, EGF induces a rapid but transient decrease in luciferase activity. The decrease requires tyrosine kinase activity, whereas the subsequent recovery requires MAP kinase activity. Our data demonstrate the utility of the luciferase system for in vivo imaging changes in EGF receptor dimerization and conformation. They also identify two sequential ligand-induced conformational changes in the EGF receptor.

Rapamycin induces transactivation of the EGFR and increases cell survival

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling network regulates cell growth, proliferation and cell survival. Deregulated activation of this pathway is a common event in diverse human diseases such as cancers, cardiac hypertrophy, vascular restenosis and nephrotic hypertrophy. Although mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, has been widely used to inhibit the aberrant signaling due to mTOR activation that plays a major role in hyperproliferative diseases, in some cases rapamycin does not attenuate the cell proliferation and survival. Thus, we studied the mechanism(s) by which cells may confer resistance to rapamycin. Our data show that in a variety of cell types the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin activates extracellularly regulated kinases (Erk1/2) signaling. Rapamycin-mediated activation of the Erk1/2 signaling requires (a) the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), (b) its tyrosine kinase activity and (c) intact autophosphorylation sites on the receptor. Rapamycin treatment increases tyrosine phosphorylation of EGFR without the addition of growth factor and this transactivation of receptor involves activation of c-Src. We also show that rapamycin treatment triggers activation of cell survival signaling pathway by activating the prosurvival kinases Erk1/2 and p90RSK. These studies provide a novel paradigm by which cells escape the apoptotic actions of rapamycin and its derivatives that inhibit the mTOR pathway.

Inhibiting the function of ABCB1 and ABCG2 by the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1478

The tyrphostin 4-(3-chloroanilino)-6,7-dimethoxyquinazoline (AG1478) is a potent and specific EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI); its promising pre-clinical results have led to clinical trials. Overexpression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters such as ABCB1, ABCC1 and ABCG2 is one of the main causes of multidrug resistance (MDR) and usually results in the failure of cancer chemotherapy. However, the interaction of AG1478 with these ABC transporters is still unclear. In the present study, we have investigated this interaction and found that AG1478 has differential effects on these transporters. In ABCB1-overexpressing cells, non-toxic doses of AG1478 were found to partially inhibit resistance to ABCB1 substrate anticancer drugs as well as increase intracellular accumulation of [3H]-paclitaxel. Similarly, in ABCG2-overexpressing cells, AG1478 significantly reversed resistance to ABCG2 substrate anticancer drugs and increased intracellular accumulation of [3H]-mitoxantrone as well as fluorescent compound BODIPY-prazosin. AG1478 also profoundly inhibited the transport of [3H]-E(2)17betaG and [3H]-methotrexate by ABCG2. We also found that AG1478 slightly stimulated ABCB1 ATPase activity and significantly stimulated ABCG2 ATPase activity. Interestingly, AG1478 did not inhibit the photolabeling of ABCB1 or ABCG2 with [125I]-iodoarylazidoprazosin. Additionally, AG1478 did not alter the sensitivity of parental, ABCB1- or ABCG2-overexpressing cells to non-ABCB1 and non-ABCG2 substrate drug and had no effect on the function of ABCC1. Overall, we conclude that AG1478 is able to inhibit the function of ABCB1 and ABCG2, with a more pronounced effect on ABCG2. Our findings provide valuable contributions to the development of safer and more effective EGFR TKIs for use as anticancer agents in the clinic.

HER2 oncogenic function escapes EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors via activation of alternative HER receptors in breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The response rate to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may be poor and unpredictable in cancer patients with EGFR expression itself being an inadequate response indicator. There is limited understanding of the mechanisms underlying this resistance. Furthermore, although TKIs suppress the growth of HER2-overexpressing breast tumor cells, they do not fully inhibit HER2 oncogenic function at physiological doses.

METHODOLOGY AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Here we have provided a molecular mechanism of how HER2 oncogenic function escapes TKIs' inhibition via alternative HER receptor activation as a result of autocrine ligand release. Using both Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) which monitors in situ HER receptor phosphorylation as well as classical biochemical analysis, we have shown that the specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) of EGFR, AG1478 and Iressa (Gefitinib) decreased EGFR and HER3 phosphorylation through the inhibition of EGFR/HER3 dimerization. Consequent to this, we demonstrate that cleavage of HER4 and dimerization of HER4/HER2 occur together with reactivation of HER3 via HER2/HER3, leading to persistent HER2 phosphorylation in the now resistant, surviving cells. These drug treatment-induced processes were found to be mediated by the release of ligands including heregulin and betacellulin that activate HER3 and HER4 via HER2. Whereas an anti-betacellulin antibody in combination with Iressa increased the anti-proliferative effect in resistant cells, ligands such as heregulin and betacellulin rendered sensitive SKBR3 cells resistant to Iressa.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

These results demonstrate the role of drug-induced autocrine events leading to the activation of alternative HER receptors in maintaining HER2 phosphorylation and in mediating resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in breast cancer cells, and hence specify treatment opportunities to overcome resistance in patients.

Signaling via ErbB2 and ErbB3 associates with resistance and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification with sensitivity to EGFR inhibitor gefitinib in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells

PURPOSE

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor gefitinib (Iressa) has shown antitumor activity in clinical trials against cancers, such as non-small cell lung cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Research on non-small cell lung cancer has elucidated factors that may predict response to gefitinib. Less is known about molecular markers that may predict response to gefitinib in HNSCC patients.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We analyzed possible associations of responsiveness to gefitinib with molecular markers of the EGFR/ErbB receptor family signaling pathway using 10 established HNSCC lines in vitro. IC50 of gefitinib sensitivity was determined using clonogenic survival assays. ErbB signaling was assessed by Western and real-time reverse transcription-PCR analyses of EGFR, ErbB2, ErbB3, and ErbB4 expression levels as well as by phosphorylation analysis of pEGFR, pErbB2, pErbB3, pAkt, and pErk. EGFR sequences encoding kinase domain and EGFR gene copy numbers were determined by cDNA sequencing and real-time PCR, respectively. Finally, responsiveness to gefitinib was compared with responsiveness to the anti-EGFR antibody cetuximab (Erbitux).

RESULTS

Expression levels of pErbB2 (P = 0.02) and total ErbB3 protein (P = 0.02) associated with resistance to gefitinib. Combining gefitinib with pertuzumab (Omnitarg), an antibody targeting ErbB2 heterodimerization, provided additional growth-inhibitory effect over gefitinib alone on relatively gefitinib-resistant HNSCC cell lines. The same markers did not predict resistance to cetuximab. In contrast, a similar trend suggesting association between EGFR gene copy number and drug sensitivity was observed for both gefitinib (P = 0.0498) and cetuximab (P = 0.053). No activating EGFR mutations were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

EGFR amplification may predict sensitivity to gefitinib in HNSCC. However, other EGFR/ErbB receptor family members than EGFR may contribute to resistance to gefitinib. ErbB2 and ErbB3 may have potential as predictive markers and as therapeutic targets for combination therapy in treatment of HNSCC with gefitinib.

Differential constitutive activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor in non-small cell lung cancer cells bearing EGFR gene mutation and amplification

The identification of somatic mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the association of such mutations with the clinical response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), such as gefitinib and erlotinib, have had a substantial effect on the treatment of this disease. EGFR gene amplification has also been associated with an increased therapeutic response to EGFR-TKIs. The effects of these two types of EGFR alteration on EGFR function have remained unclear, however. We have now examined 16 NSCLC cell lines, including eight newly established lines from Japanese NSCLC patients, for the presence of EGFR mutations and amplification. Four of the six cell lines that harbor EGFR mutations were found to be positive for EGFR amplification, whereas none of the 10 cell lines negative for EGFR mutation manifested EGFR amplification, suggesting that these two types of EGFR alteration are closely associated. Endogenous EGFRs expressed in NSCLC cell lines positive for both EGFR mutation and amplification were found to be constitutively activated as a result of ligand-independent dimerization. Furthermore, the patterns of both EGFR amplification and EGFR autophosphorylation were shown to differ between cell lines harboring the two most common types of EGFR mutation (exon 19 deletion and L858R point mutation in exon 21). These results reveal distinct biochemical properties of endogenous mutant forms of EGFR expressed in NSCLC cell lines and may have implications for treatment of this condition.

Gastrin-releasing peptide activates Akt through the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway and abrogates the effect of gefitinib

Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) is a mitogen for lung epithelial cells and initiates signaling through a G-protein-coupled receptor, gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR). Because GRPR transactivates the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), we investigated induction by GRP of Akt, an EGFR-activated signaling pathway, and examined effects of GRP on viability of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells exposed to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib. GRP induced Akt activation primarily through c-Src-mediated transactivation of EGFR. Transfection of dominant-negative c-Src abolished GRP-induced EGFR and Akt activation. GRP induced release of amphiregulin, and pre-incubation with human amphiregulin neutralizing antibody eliminated GRP-induced Akt phosphorylation. Pretreatment with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002 completely blocked GRP-initiated Akt phosphorylation. These results suggest that GRP stimulates Akt activation primarily via c-Src activation, followed by extracellular release of the EGFR ligand amphiregulin, leading to the activation of EGFR and PI3K. Pretreatment of NSCLC cells with GRP resulted in an increase in the IC(50) of gefitinib of up to 9-fold; this protective effect was mimicked by the pretreatment of cells with amphiregulin and reversed by Akt or PI3K inhibition. GRP appears to rescue NSCLC cells exposed to gefitinib through release of amphiregulin and activation of the Akt pathway, suggesting GRPR and/or EGFR autocrine pathways in NSCLC cells may modulate therapeutic response to EGFR inhibitors.