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Deng H, Zhang J, Liu L, Zhang H, Han Y, Wu L, Jing Y, Huang M, Zhao L. Discovery of Novel Mcl-1 Inhibitors with a 3-Substituted-1 H-indole-1-yl Moiety Binding to the P1-P3 Pockets to Induce Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. J Med Chem 2024; 67:13925-13958. [PMID: 39121336 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
Mcl-1 is a main antiapoptotic protein in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is used as a target to develop inhibitors. Currently, potent Mcl-1 inhibitors primarily interact with the P2-P4 pockets of Mcl-1, but pharmacological modulation by targeting the P1 pocket is less explored. We designed a series of 1H-indole-2-carboxylic acid compounds as novel Mcl-1 inhibitors occupying the P1-P3 pockets and evaluated their Mcl-1 inhibition and apoptosis induction in AML cells. Two-dimensional 15N-HSQC spectroscopy indicated that 47 (Ki = 24 nM) bound to the BH3 binding groove, occupied the P1 pocket in Mcl-1, and formed interactions with Lys234 and Val249. 47 exhibited good microsomal stability and pharmacokinetic profiles, with low potential risk of cardiotoxicity. 47 inhibited tumor growth in HL-60 and THP-1 xenograft models with growth inhibition rate of 63.7% and 57.4%, respectively. Collectively, 47 represents a novel Mcl-1 inhibitor targeting the P1-P3 pockets with excellent antileukemia effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongguang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yu Han
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linlin Wu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yongkui Jing
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Targeting Drugs for Hematological Malignancies, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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2
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Deng H, Han Y, Liu L, Zhang H, Liu D, Wen J, Huang M, Zhao L. Targeting Myeloid Leukemia-1 in Cancer Therapy: Advances and Directions. J Med Chem 2024; 67:5963-5998. [PMID: 38597264 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
As a tripartite cell death switch, B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2) family members precisely regulate the endogenous apoptosis pathway in response to various cell signal stresses through protein-protein interactions. Myeloid leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), a key anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member, is positioned downstream in the endogenous apoptotic pathway and plays a central role in regulating mitochondrial function. Mcl-1 is highly expressed in a variety of hematological malignancies and solid tumors, contributing to tumorigenesis, poor prognosis, and chemoresistance, making it an attractive target for cancer treatment. This Perspective aims to discuss the mechanism by which Mcl-1 regulates apoptosis and non-apoptotic functions in cancer cells and to outline the discovery and optimization process of potent Mcl-1 modulators. In addition, we summarize the structural characteristics of potent inhibitors that bind to Mcl-1 through multiple co-crystal structures and analyze the cardiotoxicity caused by current Mcl-1 inhibitors, providing prospects for rational targeting of Mcl-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongguang Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yu Han
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jiachen Wen
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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Di Gregorio J, Appignani M, Flati V. Role of the Mitochondrial E3 Ubiquitin Ligases as Possible Therapeutic Targets in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17176. [PMID: 38139010 PMCID: PMC10743160 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification that targets specific proteins on their lysine residues. Depending on the type of ubiquitination, this modification ultimately regulates the stability or degradation of the targeted proteins. Ubiquitination is mediated by three different classes of enzymes: the E1 ubiquitin-activating enzymes, the E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes and, most importantly, the E3 ubiquitin ligases. E3 ligases are responsible for the final step of the ubiquitin cascade, interacting directly with the target proteins. E3 ligases can also be involved in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation and response to stress; alteration in their levels can be involved in oncogenic transformation and cancer progression. Of all the six hundred E3 ligases of the human genome, only three of them are specific to the mitochondrion: MARCH5, RNF185 and MUL1. Their alterations (that reflect on the alteration of the mitochondria functions) can be related to cancer progression, as underlined by the increasing research performed in recent years on these three mitochondrial enzymes. This review will focus on the function and mechanisms of the mitochondrial E3 ubiquitin ligases, as well as their important targets, in cancer development and progression, also highlighting their potential use for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (J.D.G.); (M.A.)
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De A, Roychowdhury P, Bhuyan NR, Ko YT, Singh SK, Dua K, Kuppusamy G. Folic Acid Functionalized Diallyl Trisulfide-Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Targeting Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031393. [PMID: 36771058 PMCID: PMC9921651 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
DATS (diallyl trisulfide), an anti-oxidant and cytotoxic chemical derived from the plant garlic, has been found to have potential therapeutic activity against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Its hydrophobicity, short half-life, lack of target selectivity, and limited bioavailability at the tumor site limit its efficacy in treating TNBC. Overexpression of the Folate receptor on the surface of TNBC is a well-known target receptor for overcoming off-targeting, and lipid nanoparticles solve the limitations of limited bioavailability and short half-life. In order to overcome these constraints, we developed folic acid (FA)-conjugated DATS-SLNs in this research. The design of experiment (DoE) method was employed to optimize the FA-DATS-SLNs' nanoformulation, which resulted in a particle size of 168.2 ± 3.78 nm and a DATS entrapment of 71.91 ± 6.27%. The similarity index between MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines demonstrates that FA-DATS-SLNs are more therapeutically efficacious in the treatment of aggravating TNBC. Higher cellular internalization and efficient Bcl2 protein downregulation support the hypothesis that functionalization of the FA on the surface of DATS-SLNs improves anticancer efficacy when compared with DATS and DATS-SLNs. FA-functionalized DATS-SLNs have demonstrated to be a promising therapeutic strategy for TNBC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anindita De
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (G.K.); Tel.: +82-1098218750 (A.D.); +91-9443089812 (G.K.)
| | - Parikshit Roychowdhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Himalayan Pharmacy Institute, Majitar 737136, East Sikkim, India
| | - Nihar Ranjan Bhuyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Himalayan Pharmacy Institute, Majitar 737136, East Sikkim, India
| | - Young Tag Ko
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary & Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Gowthamarajan Kuppusamy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty 643001, Tamil Nadu, India
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (G.K.); Tel.: +82-1098218750 (A.D.); +91-9443089812 (G.K.)
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5
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Orelabrutinib and venetoclax synergistically induce cell death in double-hit lymphoma by interfering with the crosstalk between the PI3K/AKT and p38/MAPK signaling. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04473-5. [PMID: 36471019 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04473-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Double-hit lymphoma (DHL) is a rare and aggressive mature B-cell malignancy with concurrent MYC and BCL2 rearrangements. When DHL becomes relapsed or refractory, it becomes resistant to the majority of therapeutic approaches and has subpar clinical results. Therefore, innovative therapeutics for this particular patient population are urgently needed. METHODS Orelabrutinib, a new oral BTK inhibitor, combined with the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax, was used to confirm the antitumor effect of DHL. Cell counting kit-8 and Annexin V-FITC/PI assays were used to examine the interaction of this combined regimen on DHL cell lines and primary lymphoma cells. RNA sequencing, EdU incorporation assay, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, and western blotting were employed to explore the molecule mechanism for the cytotoxicity of orelabrutinib with or without venetoclax against DHL cell lines. RESULTS In this study, orelabrutinib combined with venetoclax synergistically induced DHL cell death, as evidenced by the inhibition of cell proliferation, the induct of cell cycle arrest, and the promotion of cell apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. Orelabrutinib treatment alters genome-wide gene expression in DHL cells. The combined regimen decreases the expression of BTK and Mcl-1, potentially interfering with the activity and crosstalk of PI3K/AKT signaling and p38/MAPK signaling. In addition, the combination of orelabrutinib and venetoclax shows cytotoxic activity in primary B-lymphoma cells. CONCLUSION In summary, these findings reveal a novel therapy targeting BCR signaling and the Bcl-2 family for DHL patients with a poor prognosis.
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Hoffmeister-Wittmann P, Mock A, Nichetti F, Korell F, Heilig CE, Scherr AL, Günther M, Albrecht T, Kelmendi E, Xu K, Nader L, Kessler A, Schmitt N, Fritzsche S, Weiler S, Sobol B, Stenzinger A, Boeck S, Westphalen CB, Schulze-Osthoff K, Trojan J, Kindler T, Weichert W, Spiekermann K, Bitzer M, Folprecht G, Illert AL, Boerries M, Klauschen F, Ochsenreither S, Siveke J, Bauer S, Glimm H, Brors B, Hüllein J, Hübschmann D, Uhrig S, Horak P, Kreutzfeldt S, Banales JM, Springfeld C, Jäger D, Schirmacher P, Roessler S, Ormanns S, Goeppert B, Fröhling S, Köhler BC. Bcl-x L as prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in cholangiocarcinoma. Liver Int 2022; 42:2855-2870. [PMID: 35983950 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA, pCCA, dCCA) are highly malignant tumours with increasing mortality rates due to therapy resistances. Among the mechanisms mediating resistance, overexpression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL , Mcl-1) is particularly important. In this study, we investigated whether antiapoptotic protein patterns are prognostically relevant and potential therapeutic targets in CCA. Bcl-2 proteins were analysed in a pan-cancer cohort from the NCT/DKFZ/DKTK MASTER registry trial (n = 1140, CCA n = 72) via RNA-sequencing and transcriptome-based protein activity interference revealing high ranks of CCA for Bcl-xL and Mcl-1. Expression of Bcl-xL , Mcl-1, and Bcl-2 was assessed in human CCA tissue and cell lines compared with cholangiocytes by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and quantitative-RT-PCR. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the upregulation of Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 in iCCA tissues. Cell death of CCA cell lines upon treatment with specific small molecule inhibitors of Bcl-xL (Wehi-539), of Mcl-1 (S63845), and Bcl-2 (ABT-199), either alone, in combination with each other or together with chemotherapeutics was assessed by flow cytometry. Targeting Bcl-xL induced cell death and augmented the effect of chemotherapy in CCA cells. Combined inhibition of Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 led to a synergistic increase in cell death in CCA cell lines. Correlation between Bcl-2 protein expression and survival was analysed within three independent patient cohorts from cancer centers in Germany comprising 656 CCA cases indicating a prognostic value of Bcl-xL in CCA depending on the CCA subtype. Collectively, these observations identify Bcl-xL as a key protein in cell death resistance of CCA and may pave the way for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Hoffmeister-Wittmann
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiooncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Mock
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Federico Nichetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori, Milan, Italy.,Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Felix Korell
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Medicine V, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph E Heilig
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Scherr
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Günther
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Albrecht
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eblina Kelmendi
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kaiyu Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Luisa Nader
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Annika Kessler
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Schmitt
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sarah Fritzsche
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sofia Weiler
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Sobol
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Boeck
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine III and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph B Westphalen
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine III and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Schulze-Osthoff
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Interfaculty Institute for Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jörg Trojan
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Kindler
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Mainz, Germany
| | - Wilko Weichert
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Technichal University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Karsten Spiekermann
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Bitzer
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gunnar Folprecht
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna L Illert
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Boerries
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Frederick Klauschen
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Ochsenreither
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCC), Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of hematology, medical oncology and tumor immunology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Siveke
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK Partner Site Essen) and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department for Translational Oncology, West German Tumor Center (WTZ), Essen University Hospital, Essen, Germany
| | - Hanno Glimm
- Translational Medical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Department for Translational Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT/UCC), Dresden, Germany: Germany Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Dresden, Germany.,Translational Functional Cancer Genomics, National Center für Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Brors
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Hüllein
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Hübschmann
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Stem cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Uhrig
- Computational Oncology Group, Molecular Precision Oncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Horak
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Kreutzfeldt
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jesus M Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Ikerbasque, Network Centre for Biomedical Research in Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), San Sebastian, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Christoph Springfeld
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Jäger
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schirmacher
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roessler
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Ormanns
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Goeppert
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, RKH Klinikum Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Fröhling
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bruno C Köhler
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Partner Sites, Heidelberg, Germany.,Liver Cancer Center Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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7
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Drennen B, Goodis CC, Bowen N, Yu W, Vickers G, Wilder PT, MacKerell AD, Fletcher S. Scaffold hopping from indoles to indazoles yields dual MCL-1/BCL-2 inhibitors from MCL-1 selective leads. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:963-969. [PMID: 36092148 PMCID: PMC9384788 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00095d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins is associated with the development and progression of a range of cancers. Venetoclax, an FDA-approved BCL-2 inhibitor, is fast becoming the standard-of-care for acute myeloid leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. However, the median survival offered by venetoclax is only 18 months (as part of a combination therapy regimen), and one of the primary culprits for this is the concomitant upregulation of sister anti-apoptotic proteins, in particular MCL-1 (and BCL-xL), which provides an escape route that manifests as venetoclax resistance. Since inhibition of BCL-xL leads to thrombocytopenia, we believe that a dual MCL-1/BCL-2 inhibitor may provide an enhanced therapeutic effect relative to a selective BCL-2 inhibitor. Beginning with a carboxylic acid-containing literature compound that is a potent inhibitor of MCL-1 and a moderate inhibitor of BCL-2, we herein describe our efforts to develop dual inhibitors of MCL-1 and BCL-2 by scaffold hopping from an indole core to an indazole framework. Subsequently, further elaboration of our novel N2-substituted, indazole-3-carboxylic acid lead into a family of indazole-3-acylsulfonamides resulted in improved inhibition of both MCL-1 and BCL-2, possibly through occupation of the p4 pocket, with minimal or no inhibition of BCL-xL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Drennen
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences 20 N. Pine St. Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Christopher C. Goodis
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences20 N. Pine St.BaltimoreMD 21201USA
| | - Nathan Bowen
- Department of Chemistry, Cardiff UniversityCF10 3ATUK
| | - Wenbo Yu
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences 20 N. Pine St. Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | | | - Paul T. Wilder
- University of Maryland School of Medicine20 S. Greene St.BaltimoreMD 21201USA
| | - Alexander D. MacKerell
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences20 N. Pine St.BaltimoreMD 21201USA,University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center20 S. Greene St.BaltimoreMD 21201USA
| | - Steven Fletcher
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences 20 N. Pine St. Baltimore MD 21201 USA .,University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center 20 S. Greene St. Baltimore MD 21201 USA
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8
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No time to die? Intrinsic apoptosis signaling in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and therapeutic implications. Curr Opin Hematol 2022; 29:181-187. [PMID: 35787546 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Dysregulated apoptosis contributes to the pathogenesis of many hematologic malignancies. BH3-mimetics, antagonists of antiapoptotic BCL-2 proteins, represent novel, and promising cancer drugs. While the acute myelosuppressive effects of Venetoclax, the first Food and Drug Administration approved BCL-2 inhibitor, are fairly well described, little is known about side effects of novel BH3-mimetics and effects of chronic Venetoclax treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Highly relevant publications focused on the effects of acute and chronic Venetoclax therapy, with focus on cell-type specific adaptive mechanisms, the emergence of clonal hematopoiesis, and the selection of BAX-mutated hematopoietic cells in patients treated with Venetoclax for a long period. Important advances were made in understanding primary and secondary Venetoclax resistance and prediction of Venetoclax response. Combination therapies of BH3-mimetics targeting different BCL-2 proteins are highly anticipated. However, human stem and progenitors require both MCL-1 and BCL-XL for survival, and serious myelosuppressive effects of combined MCL-1/BCL-XL inhibition can be expected. SUMMARY Long-term studies are indispensable to profile the chronic side effects of Venetoclax and novel BH3-mimetics and better balance their risk vs. benefit in cancer therapy. Combination therapies will be powerful, but potentially limited by severe myelosuppression. For precision medicine, a better knowledge of BCL-2 proteins in the healthy and diseased hematopoietic system is required.
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Xu Y, Ye H. Progress in understanding the mechanisms of resistance to BCL-2 inhibitors. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:31. [PMID: 35598030 PMCID: PMC9124382 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00283-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax is a new type of BH3 mimetic compound that can target the binding site in the BCL-2 protein and induce apoptosis in cancer cells by stimulating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Venetoclax is especially used to treat haematological malignancies. However, with the recent expansion in the applications of venetoclax, some cases of venetoclax resistance have appeared, posing a major problem in clinical treatment. In this article, we explored several common mechanisms of venetoclax resistance. Increased expression of the antiapoptotic proteins MCL-1 and BCL-XL plays a key role in conferring cellular resistance to venetoclax. These proteins can bind to the released BIM in the context of venetoclax binding to BCL-2 and thus continue to inhibit mitochondrial apoptosis. Structural mutations in BCL-2 family proteins caused by genetic instability lead to decreased affinity for venetoclax and inhibit the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Mutation or deletion of the BAX gene renders the BAX protein unable to anchor to the outer mitochondrial membrane to form pores. In addition to changes in BCL-2 family genes, mutations in other oncogenes can also confer resistance to apoptosis induced by venetoclax. TP53 mutations and the expansion of FLT3-ITD promote the expression of antiapoptotic proteins MCL-1 and BCL-XL through multiple signalling pathways, and interfere with venetoclax-mediated apoptosis processes depending on their affinity for BH3-only proteins. Finally, the level of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in venetoclax-resistant leukaemia stem cells is highly abnormal. Not only the metabolic pathways but also the levels of important metabolic components are changed, and all of these alterations antagonize the venetoclax-mediated inhibition of energy metabolism and promote the survival and proliferation of leukaemia stem cells. In addition, venetoclax can change mitochondrial morphology independent of the BCL-2 protein family, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. However, mitochondria resistant to venetoclax antagonize this effect, forming tighter mitochondrial cristae, which provide more energy for cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilan Xu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University-Zhejiang, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haige Ye
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University-Zhejiang, Wenzhou, China.
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10
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Refining AML Treatment: The Role of Genetics in Response and Resistance Evaluation to New Agents. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071689. [PMID: 35406464 PMCID: PMC8996853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive cancer of the hematopoietic system. At present, we know that AML is heterogeneous and varies from one patient to another, often characterized by specific changes in the DNA (mutations). Likewise, we know that the mutational landscape of the disease predicts its response to certain therapies and that it can change under the influence of therapy. Since 2017, the number of potential drugs intended to treat AML has substantially increased and so has our knowledge about the role of certain mutations in the prediction of disease response, relapse and resistance. In this article, we review the current state of knowledge of genetic aberrations with respect to clinical decision making. Abstract The number of treatment options for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has greatly increased since 2017. This development is paralleled by the broad implantation of genetic profiling as an integral part of clinical studies, enabling us to characterize mutation–response, mutation–non-response, or mutation–relapse patterns. The aim of this review is to provide a concise overview of the current state of knowledge with respect to newly approved AML treatment options and the association of response, relapse and resistance with genetic alterations. Specifically, we will highlight current genetic data regarding FLT3 inhibitors, IDH inhibitors, hypomethylating agents (HMA), the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax (VEN), the anti-CD33 antibody conjugate gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) and the liposomal dual drug CPX-351.
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11
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Burley TA, Kennedy E, Broad G, Boyd M, Li D, Woo T, West C, Ladikou EE, Ashworth I, Fegan C, Johnston R, Mitchell S, Mackay SP, Pepper AGS, Pepper C. Targeting the Non-Canonical NF-κB Pathway in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061489. [PMID: 35326640 PMCID: PMC8946537 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated an NF-κB inducing kinase (NIK) inhibitor, CW15337, in primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells, CLL and multiple myeloma (MM) cell lines and normal B- and T-lymphocytes. Basal NF-κB subunit activity was characterized using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the effects of NIK inhibition were then assessed in terms of cytotoxicity and the expression of nuclear NF-κB subunits following monoculture and co-culture with CD40L-expressing fibroblasts, as a model of the lymphoid niche. CW15337 induced a dose-dependent increase in apoptosis, and nuclear expression of the non-canonical NF-κB subunit, p52, was correlated with sensitivity to CW15337 (p = 0.01; r2 = 0.39). Co-culture on CD40L-expressing cells induced both canonical and non-canonical subunit expression in nuclear extracts, which promoted in vitro resistance against fludarabine and ABT-199 (venetoclax) but not CW15337. Furthermore, the combination of CW15337 with fludarabine or ABT-199 showed cytotoxic synergy. Mechanistically, CW15337 caused the selective inhibition of non-canonical NF-κB subunits and the transcriptional repression of BCL2L1, BCL2A1 and MCL1 gene transcription. Taken together, these data suggest that the NIK inhibitor, CW15337, exerts its effects via suppression of the non-canonical NF-κB signaling pathway, which reverses BCL2 family-mediated resistance in the context of CD40L stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Burley
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
| | - Emma Kennedy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
| | - Georgia Broad
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
| | - Melanie Boyd
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK; (M.B.); (D.L.); (T.W.); (C.F.)
| | - David Li
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK; (M.B.); (D.L.); (T.W.); (C.F.)
| | - Timothy Woo
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK; (M.B.); (D.L.); (T.W.); (C.F.)
| | - Christopher West
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK; (C.W.); (S.P.M.)
- Drug Discovery Unit, The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Eleni E. Ladikou
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
- Department of Haematology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital Trust, Brighton BN2 5BE, UK;
| | - Iona Ashworth
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
- Department of Haematology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital Trust, Brighton BN2 5BE, UK;
| | - Christopher Fegan
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK; (M.B.); (D.L.); (T.W.); (C.F.)
| | - Rosalynd Johnston
- Department of Haematology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital Trust, Brighton BN2 5BE, UK;
| | - Simon Mitchell
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
| | - Simon P. Mackay
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK; (C.W.); (S.P.M.)
| | - Andrea G. S. Pepper
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
| | - Chris Pepper
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer BN1 9PX, UK; (T.A.B.); (E.K.); (G.B.); (E.E.L.); (I.A.); (S.M.); (A.G.S.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-012-7367-8644
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12
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Zehnle PMA, Wu Y, Pommerening H, Erlacher M. Stayin‘ alive: BCL-2 proteins in the hematopoietic system. Exp Hematol 2022; 110:1-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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13
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Chen W, Li J. Alternative splicing of BCL-X and implications for treating hematological malignancies. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:670. [PMID: 34345295 PMCID: PMC8323006 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BCL-X is a member of the BCL-2 family. It regulates apoptosis and plays a critical role in hematological malignancies. It is well-known that >90% of human genes undergo alternative splicing. A total of 10 distinct splicing transcripts of the BCL-X gene have been identified, including transcript variants 1–9 and ABALON. Different transcripts from the same gene have different functions. The present review discusses the progress in understanding the different alternative splicing transcripts of BCL-X, including their characteristics, functions and expression patterns. The potential use of BCL-X in targeted therapies for hematological malignancies is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanling Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian 361023, P.R. China
| | - Jinggang Li
- Department of Hematology, Fujian Institute of Hematology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
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14
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Wang H, Guo M, Wei H, Chen Y. Targeting MCL-1 in cancer: current status and perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:67. [PMID: 33883020 PMCID: PMC8061042 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid leukemia 1 (MCL-1) is an antiapoptotic protein of the BCL-2 family that prevents apoptosis by binding to the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins. Overexpression of MCL-1 is frequently observed in many tumor types and is closely associated with tumorigenesis, poor prognosis and drug resistance. The central role of MCL-1 in regulating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway makes it an attractive target for cancer therapy. Significant progress has been made with regard to MCL-1 inhibitors, some of which have entered clinical trials. Here, we discuss the mechanism by which MCL-1 regulates cancer cell apoptosis and review the progress related to MCL-1 small molecule inhibitors and their role in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolan Wang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hudie Wei
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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15
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Pędziwiatr-Werbicka E, Gorzkiewicz M, Michlewska S, Ionov M, Shcharbin D, Klajnert-Maculewicz B, Peña-González CE, Sánchez-Nieves J, Gómez R, de la Mata FJ, Bryszewska M. Evaluation of dendronized gold nanoparticles as siRNAs carriers into cancer cells. J Mol Liq 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.114726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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16
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Yue X, Chen Q, He J. Combination strategies to overcome resistance to the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax in hematologic malignancies. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:524. [PMID: 33292251 PMCID: PMC7597043 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01614-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration since 2016 as a monotherapy for treating patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia having 17p deletion. It has led to a breakthrough in the treatment of hematologic malignancies in recent years. However, unfortunately, resistance to venetoclax is inevitable. Multiple studies confirmed that the upregulation of the anti-apoptotic proteins of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) family mediated by various mechanisms, such as tumor microenvironment, and the activation of intracellular signaling pathways were the major factors leading to resistance to venetoclax. Therefore, only targeting BCL2 often fails to achieve the expected therapeutic effect. Based on the mechanism of resistance in specific hematologic malignancies, the combination of specific drugs with venetoclax was a clinically optional treatment strategy for overcoming resistance to venetoclax. This study aimed to summarize the possible resistance mechanisms of various hematologic tumors to venetoclax and the corresponding clinical strategies to overcome resistance to venetoclax in hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- XiaoYan Yue
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79, Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingxiao Chen
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79, Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - JingSong He
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79, Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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17
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Cerella C, Dicato M, Diederich M. BH3 Mimetics in AML Therapy: Death and Beyond? Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:793-814. [PMID: 33032835 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) homology domain 3 (BH3) mimetics are targeted therapeutic agents that allow response prediction and patient stratification. BH3 mimetics are prototypical activators of the mitochondrial death program in cancer. They emerged as important modulators of cellular mechanisms contributing to poor therapeutic responses, including cancer cell stemness, cancer-specific metabolic routes, paracrine signaling to the tumor microenvironment, and immune modulation. We present an overview of the antagonism between BH3 mimetics and antiapoptotic BCL2 proteins. We focus on acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a cancer with reduced therapeutic options that have recently been improved by BH3 mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cerella
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer, Hôpital Kirchberg, L-2540 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Mario Dicato
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer, Hôpital Kirchberg, L-2540 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Marc Diederich
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, South Korea.
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18
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Wilde L, Ramanathan S, Kasner M. B-cell lymphoma-2 inhibition and resistance in acute myeloid leukemia. World J Clin Oncol 2020; 11:528-540. [PMID: 32879842 PMCID: PMC7443828 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v11.i8.528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spurred by better understanding of disease biology, improvements in molecular diagnostics, and the development of targeted therapies, the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has undergone significant evolution in recent years. Arguably, the most exciting shift has come from the success of treatment with the B-cell lymphoma-2 inhibitor venetoclax. When given in combination with a hypomethylating agent or low dose cytarabine, venetoclax demonstrates high response rates, some of which are durable. In spite of this, relapses after venetoclax treatment are common, and much interest exists in elucidating the mechanisms of resistance to the drug. Alterations in leukemic stem cell metabolism have been identified as a possible escape route, and clinical trials focusing on targeting metabolism in AML are ongoing. This review article highlights current research regarding venetoclax treatment and resistance in AML with a focus on cellular metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Wilde
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| | - Sabarina Ramanathan
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| | - Margaret Kasner
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
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Abstract
Agents that specifically target pathologic mechanisms of survival have now been approved for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in both the treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory settings. These 4 agents include the Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor ibrutinib, the B-cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 inhibitor venetoclax, and the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase inhibitors idelalisib and duvelisib. Although clinical outcomes are improved with all of these inhibitors, acquired resistance does occur and leads to progression of disease. Resistance to targeted therapy can occur through direct mutations of the target or through the overexpression of alternative cell survival pathways not affected by the specific inhibitor. Determining which patients will develop resistance, why resistance occurs, how to overcome resistance, and when to test for resistance are all subjects of ongoing research. In this review, we describe the current data relative to the development of resistance to targeted therapies in CLL.
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Mallick DJ, Eastman A. AT101 [(-)-Gossypol] Selectively Inhibits MCL1 and Sensitizes Carcinoma to BH3 Mimetics by Inducing and Stabilizing NOXA. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2298. [PMID: 32824203 PMCID: PMC7464284 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-apoptotic BCL2 proteins are important targets for cancer therapy as cancers depend on their activity for survival. Direct inhibitors of MCL1 have entered clinical trials, although their efficacy may be limited by toxicity. An alternative approach may be to induce the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA which selectively inhibits MCL1 in cells. Many compounds originally proposed as inhibitors of the BCL2 family were subsequently found to induce the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA through the unfolded protein response. In the present study, we compared various putative BH3 mimetics across a panel of carcinoma cell lines and measured expression of NOXA protein and mRNA, as well as the kinetics of NOXA induction. We found that AT101 [(-)-gossypol] induces high levels of NOXA in carcinoma cell lines yet cells survive. When combined with an appropriate BCL2 or BCL-XL inhibitor, NOXA-dependent sensitization occurs. NOXA protein continues to accumulate for many hours after AT101 is removed, providing a window for administering these combinations. As MCL1 promotes drug resistance and overall survival, we propose that NOXA induction is an alternative therapeutic strategy to target MCL1 and either kill cancer cells that are dependent on MCL1 or sensitize cancer cells to other BCL2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Mallick
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
| | - Alan Eastman
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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Abstract
For over three decades, a mainstay and goal of clinical oncology has been the development of therapies promoting the effective elimination of cancer cells by apoptosis. This programmed cell death process is mediated by several signalling pathways (referred to as intrinsic and extrinsic) triggered by multiple factors, including cellular stress, DNA damage and immune surveillance. The interaction of apoptosis pathways with other signalling mechanisms can also affect cell death. The clinical translation of effective pro-apoptotic agents involves drug discovery studies (addressing the bioavailability, stability, tumour penetration, toxicity profile in non-malignant tissues, drug interactions and off-target effects) as well as an understanding of tumour biology (including heterogeneity and evolution of resistant clones). While tumour cell death can result in response to therapy, the selection, growth and dissemination of resistant cells can ultimately be fatal. In this Review, we present the main apoptosis pathways and other signalling pathways that interact with them, and discuss actionable molecular targets, therapeutic agents in clinical translation and known mechanisms of resistance to these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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Li Y, Zhou D, Xu S, Rao M, Zhang Z, Wu L, Zhang C, Lin N. DYRK1A suppression restrains Mcl-1 expression and sensitizes NSCLC cells to Bcl-2 inhibitors. Cancer Biol Med 2020; 17:387-400. [PMID: 32587776 PMCID: PMC7309455 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2019.0380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Mcl-1 overexpression confers acquired resistance to Bcl-2 inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but no direct Mcl-1 inhibitor is currently available for clinical use. Thus, novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to target Mcl-1 and sensitize the anti-NSCLC activity of Bcl-2 inhibitors. Methods: Cell proliferation was measured using sulforhodamine B and colony formation assays, and apoptosis was detected with Annexin V-FITC staining. Gene expression was manipulated using siRNAs and plasmids. Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to measure mRNA and protein levels. Immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence were used to analyze co-localization of dual specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) and Mcl-1. Results: Suppression of DYRK1A resulted in reduced Mcl-1 expression in NSCLC cells, whereas overexpression of DYRK1A significantly increased Mcl-1 expression. Suppression of DYRK1A did not alter Mcl-1 mRNA levels, but did result in an accelerated degradation of Mcl-1 protein in NSCLC cells. Furthermore, DYRK1A mediated proteasome-dependent degradation of Mcl-1 in NSCLC cells, and DYRK1A co-localized with Mcl-1 in NSCLC cells and was co-expressed with Mcl-1 in tumor samples from lung cancer patients, suggesting that Mcl-1 may be a novel DYRK1A substrate. We showed that combined therapy with harmine and Bcl-2 antagonists significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in NSCLC cell lines as well as primary NSCLC cells. Conclusions: Mcl-1 is a novel DYRK1A substrate, and the role of DYRK1A in promoting Mcl-1 stability makes it an attractive target for decreasing Bcl-2 inhibitor resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangling Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Dongmei Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Shuang Xu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Mingjun Rao
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 311402, China
| | - Zuoyan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Linwen Wu
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Chong Zhang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Nengming Lin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 311402, China
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23
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Pearson JM, Tan SF, Sharma A, Annageldiyev C, Fox TE, Abad JL, Fabrias G, Desai D, Amin S, Wang HG, Cabot MC, Claxton DF, Kester M, Feith DJ, Loughran TP. Ceramide Analogue SACLAC Modulates Sphingolipid Levels and MCL-1 Splicing to Induce Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 18:352-363. [PMID: 31744877 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of immature myeloid cells in the blood and bone marrow. The 5-year survival rate is approximately 25%, and recent therapeutic developments have yielded little survival benefit. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify novel therapeutic targets. We previously demonstrated that acid ceramidase (ASAH1, referred to as AC) is upregulated in AML and high AC activity correlates with poor patient survival. Here, we characterized a novel AC inhibitor, SACLAC, that significantly reduced the viability of AML cells with an EC50 of approximately 3 μmol/L across 30 human AML cell lines. Treatment of AML cell lines with SACLAC effectively blocked AC activity and induced a decrease in sphingosine 1-phosphate and a 2.5-fold increase in total ceramide levels. Mechanistically, we showed that SACLAC treatment led to reduced levels of splicing factor SF3B1 and alternative MCL-1 mRNA splicing in multiple human AML cell lines. This increased proapoptotic MCL-1S levels and contributed to SACLAC-induced apoptosis in AML cells. The apoptotic effects of SACLAC were attenuated by SF3B1 or MCL-1 overexpression and by selective knockdown of MCL-1S. Furthermore, AC knockdown and exogenous C16-ceramide supplementation induced similar changes in SF3B1 level and MCL-1S/L ratio. Finally, we demonstrated that SACLAC treatment leads to a 37% to 75% reduction in leukemic burden in two human AML xenograft mouse models. IMPLICATIONS: These data further emphasize AC as a therapeutic target in AML and define SACLAC as a potent inhibitor to be further optimized for future clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Pearson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Su-Fern Tan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Arati Sharma
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Hershey, Pennsylvania.,Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Todd E Fox
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jose Luis Abad
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBER-EHD), Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia, Spanish National Research Council (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Fabrias
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBER-EHD), Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia, Spanish National Research Council (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dhimant Desai
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Shantu Amin
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Hong-Gang Wang
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Hershey, Pennsylvania.,Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Myles C Cabot
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
| | | | - Mark Kester
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.,University of Virginia Cancer Center, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - David J Feith
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.,University of Virginia Cancer Center, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Thomas P Loughran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia. .,University of Virginia Cancer Center, Charlottesville, Virginia
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