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Chen Y, Zhu H, Luo Y, Tong S, Liu Y. EZH2: The roles in targeted therapy and mechanisms of resistance in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116624. [PMID: 38670045 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance presents a formidable challenge in the realm of breast cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), may serve as a key regulator in controlling drug resistance. EZH2 overexpression has been observed in breast cancer and many other malignancies, showing a strong correlation with poor outcomes. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms by which EZH2 regulates drug resistance, with a specific focus on breast cancer, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying molecular processes. Additionally, we will discuss the current strategies and outcomes of targeting EZH2 using both single agents and combination therapies, with the goal of offering improved guidance for the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients who have developed drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yi Luo
- Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Biotheus Inc., Guangdong Province, Zhuhai 519080, PR China.
| | - Shuangmei Tong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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2
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Xiao B, Shi Z, Liu J, Huang Q, Shu K, Liu F, Zhi C, Zhang D, Wu L, Yang S, Zeng X, Fan T, Liu Z, Jiang Y. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of VHL-based EZH2 degraders for breast cancer. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:107078. [PMID: 38181661 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107078] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
EZH2 (enhancer of zeste homolog 2) is one of the most important histone methyltransferases (HMTs), and overexpression of EZH2 can lead to proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of tumor cells. But most of EZH2 inhibitors are only effective against some hematologic malignancies and have poor efficacy against solid tumors. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of highly potent proteolysis targeting chimeric (PROTACs) small molecules targeting EZH2. We developed a potent and effective EZH2 degrader P4, which effectively induced EZH2 protein degradation and inhibited breast cancer cell growth. Further studies showed that P4 can significantly decrease the degree of H3K27me3 in MDA-MB-231 cell line, induce apoptosis and G0/G1 phase arrest in Pfeiffer and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Therefore, P4 is a potential anticancer molecule for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boren Xiao
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhichao Shi
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Qiuhua Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Kaifei Shu
- The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Funian Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Cailian Zhi
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Lihong Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shiqi Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Xiliang Zeng
- The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tingting Fan
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China.
| | - Zijian Liu
- Shenzhen Kivita Innovative Drug Discovery Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; Shenzhen Winkey Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518000, China.
| | - Yuyang Jiang
- The State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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3
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Wan G, Feng H, Su C, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Zhang Q, Yu L. A patent review of EZH2 inhibitors from 2017 and beyond. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:293-308. [PMID: 37095742 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2206018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION EZH2 is an important epigenetic regulator that forms the PRC2 complex with SUZ12, EED and RbAp46/48. As the key catalytic subunit of PRC2, EZH2 regulates the trimethylation of histone H3K27, which in turn promotes chromatin condensation and represses the transcription of relevant target genes. EZH2 overexpression and mutations are strictly related to tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Currently, a large number of highly specific EZH2 inhibitors have been developed and some have already been in clinical trials. AREAS COVERED The aim of the present review is to provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms of EZH2 inhibitors and to highlight the research advances in the patent literature published from 2017 to date. A search of the literature and patents for EZH2 inhibitors and degraders was performed using the Web of Science, SCIFinder, WIPO, USPTO, EPO and CNIPA databases. EXPERT OPINION In recent years, a great number of structurally diverse EZH2 inhibitors have been identified, including EZH2 reversible inhibitors, EZH2 irreversible inhibitors, EZH2-based dual inhibitors and EZH2 degraders. Despite the multiple challenges, EZH2 inhibitors offer promising potential for the treatment of various diseases, such as cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoquan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Huan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Chang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Lidan Zhang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Qiangsheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Luoting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
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Chemical biology and pharmacology of histone lysine methylation inhibitors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2022; 1865:194840. [PMID: 35753676 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine methylation is a post-translational modification that plays a key role in the epigenetic regulation of a broad spectrum of biological processes. Moreover, the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases particularly cancer. Due to their pathobiological importance, KMTs have garnered immense attention over the last decade as attractive therapeutic targets. These endeavors have culminated in tens of chemical probes that have been used to interrogate many aspects of histone lysine methylation. Besides, over a dozen inhibitors have been advanced to clinical trials, including the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat approved for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and advanced epithelioid sarcoma. In this Review, we highlight the chemical biology and pharmacology of KMT inhibitors and targeted protein degraders focusing on the clinical development of EZH1/2, DOT1L, Menin-MLL, and WDR5-MLL inhibitors. We also briefly discuss the pharmacologic targeting of other KMTs.
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Xia J, Li J, Tian L, Ren X, Liu C, Liang C. Targeting Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies and Solid Tumors: Candidate Structure–Activity Relationships Insights and Evolution Prospects. J Med Chem 2022; 65:7016-7043. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Xia
- Laboratory of Hematologic Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, P. R. China
| | - Jingyi Li
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi’an 710021, P. R. China
| | - Lei Tian
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi’an 710021, P. R. China
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi’an 710021, P. R. China
| | - Xiaodong Ren
- Medical College, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Chang Liu
- Zhuhai Jinan Selenium Source Nanotechnology Co., Ltd., Zhuhai 519030, P. R. China
| | - Chengyuan Liang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi’an 710021, P. R. China
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Mirzaei S, Gholami MH, Hushmandi K, Hashemi F, Zabolian A, Canadas I, Zarrabi A, Nabavi N, Aref AR, Crea F, Wang Y, Ashrafizadeh M, Kumar AP. The long and short non-coding RNAs modulating EZH2 signaling in cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:18. [PMID: 35236381 PMCID: PMC8892735 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01235-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a large family of RNA molecules with no capability in encoding proteins. However, they participate in developmental and biological processes and their abnormal expression affects cancer progression. These RNA molecules can function as upstream mediators of different signaling pathways and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is among them. Briefly, EZH2 belongs to PRCs family and can exert functional roles in cells due to its methyltransferase activity. EZH2 affects gene expression via inducing H3K27me3. In the present review, our aim is to provide a mechanistic discussion of ncRNAs role in regulating EZH2 expression in different cancers. MiRNAs can dually induce/inhibit EZH2 in cancer cells to affect downstream targets such as Wnt, STAT3 and EMT. Furthermore, miRNAs can regulate therapy response of cancer cells via affecting EZH2 signaling. It is noteworthy that EZH2 can reduce miRNA expression by binding to promoter and exerting its methyltransferase activity. Small-interfering RNA (siRNA) and short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) are synthetic, short ncRNAs capable of reducing EZH2 expression and suppressing cancer progression. LncRNAs mainly regulate EZH2 expression via targeting miRNAs. Furthermore, lncRNAs induce EZH2 by modulating miRNA expression. Circular RNAs (CircRNAs), like lncRNAs, affect EZH2 expression via targeting miRNAs. These areas are discussed in the present review with a focus on molecular pathways leading to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Hashemi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, 1417466191, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Zabolian
- Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Golestan, Iran
| | - Israel Canadas
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urological Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Translational Sciences, Xsphera Biosciences Inc., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francesco Crea
- Cancer Research Group-School of Life Health and Chemical Sciences, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Department of Urological Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada.
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey.
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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7
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Liu KL, Zhu K, Zhang H. An overview of the development of EED inhibitors to disable the PRC2 function. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:39-53. [PMID: 35224495 PMCID: PMC8792826 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00274k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) catalyzes the methylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27) and the enrichment of its catalytic product H3K27me3 is responsible for the silencing of tumor suppressor genes and the blocking of transcripts related to immunity and cell terminal differentiation. Aberrations of PRC2 components, such as mutation and overexpression, have been observed in various cancers, which makes PRC2 a potential therapeutic target for cancer. Up to now, targeting the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of PRC2, represents the main strategy in the development of PRC2 inhibitors. Although significant progress has been made, new problems also emerge, e.g. the drug resistance caused by secondary mutations. In recent years, more and more efforts have shifted to another new strategy - targeting embryonic ectoderm development (EED) to disrupt its major interactions with other components, which are necessary to the PRC2 function, and some promising results have been obtained. This review summarizes the recent development of EED inhibitors as possible chemotherapy for cancer treatment, which could help accelerate future related research work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Lu Liu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan Jinan 250022 China
| | - Kongkai Zhu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan Jinan 250022 China
| | - Hua Zhang
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan Jinan 250022 China
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8
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Amin R, Shukla A, Zhu JJ, Kim S, Wang P, Tian SZ, Tran AD, Paul D, Cappell SD, Burkett S, Liu H, Lee MP, Kruhlak MJ, Dwyer JE, Simpson RM, Hager GL, Ruan Y, Hunter KW. Nuclear pore protein NUP210 depletion suppresses metastasis through heterochromatin-mediated disruption of tumor cell mechanical response. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7216. [PMID: 34903738 PMCID: PMC8669001 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27451-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical signals from the extracellular microenvironment have been implicated in tumor and metastatic progression. Here, we identify nucleoporin NUP210 as a metastasis susceptibility gene for human estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer and a cellular mechanosensor. Nup210 depletion suppresses lung metastasis in mouse models of breast cancer. Mechanistically, NUP210 interacts with LINC complex protein SUN2 which connects the nucleus to the cytoskeleton. In addition, the NUP210/SUN2 complex interacts with chromatin via the short isoform of BRD4 and histone H3.1/H3.2 at the nuclear periphery. In Nup210 knockout cells, mechanosensitive genes accumulate H3K27me3 heterochromatin modification, mediated by the polycomb repressive complex 2 and differentially reposition within the nucleus. Transcriptional repression in Nup210 knockout cells results in defective mechanotransduction and focal adhesion necessary for their metastatic capacity. Our study provides an important role of nuclear pore protein in cellular mechanosensation and metastasis. The involvement of nuclear pore proteins in cellular mechanosensing and metastasis is unclear. Here the authors identify that nuclear pore protein NUP210 promotes metastasis through the interaction with mechanotransducer LINC complex protein and chromatin to regulate mechanosensitive genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhul Amin
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Anjali Shukla
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Sohyoung Kim
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ping Wang
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | | | - Andy D Tran
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Debasish Paul
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Steven D Cappell
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sandra Burkett
- Molecular Cytogenetics Core Facility, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Huaitian Liu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.,High-Dimension Data Analysis Group, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Maxwell P Lee
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.,High-Dimension Data Analysis Group, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael J Kruhlak
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer E Dwyer
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - R Mark Simpson
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gordon L Hager
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yijun Ruan
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Kent W Hunter
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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9
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Histone H3 lysine-trimethylation markers are decreased by recombinant methioninase and increased by methotrexate at concentrations which inhibit methionine-addicted osteosarcoma cell proliferation. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 28:101177. [PMID: 34877414 PMCID: PMC8633566 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.101177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Methionine addiction is a fundamental and general hallmark of cancer cells, which require exogenous methionine, despite their ability to synthesize normal amounts of methionine from homocysteine. In contrast, methionine-independent normal cells do not require exogenous methionine in the presence of a methionine precursor. The methionine addiction of cancer cells is due to excess transmethylation reactions. We have previously shown that histone H3 lysine marks are over-methylated in cancer cells and the over-methylation is unstable when the cancer cells are restricted of methionine. In the present study, we show that methionine-addicted osteosarcoma cells are sensitive to both methotrexate (MTX) and recombinant methioninase (rMETase), but they affect histone H3 lysine-methylation in the opposite direction. Concentrations of MTX and rMETase, which inhibit osteosarcoma cells viability to 20%, had opposing effects on the status of histone methylation of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3. rMETase significantly decreased the amount of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3. In contrast, MTX significantly increased the amount of H3K9me and H3K27me3. The results suggest that increase or decrease in these methylated histone lysine marks is associated with proliferation arrest of methionine-addicted osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma cells are sensitive to both methotrexate and recombinant methioninase. MTX increased the amount of H3K9me and H3K27me3. RMETase decreased the amount of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3. Increase/decrease in H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 is associated with proliferation arrest.
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10
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Bagal SK, Gregson C, O' Donovan DH, Pike KG, Bloecher A, Barton P, Borodovsky A, Code E, Fillery SM, Hsu JHR, Kawatkar SP, Li C, Longmire D, Nai Y, Nash SC, Pike A, Robinson J, Read JA, Rawlins PB, Shen M, Tang J, Wang P, Woods H, Williamson B. Diverse, Potent, and Efficacious Inhibitors That Target the EED Subunit of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Methyltransferase. J Med Chem 2021; 64:17146-17183. [PMID: 34807608 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activity of the histone methyltransferase polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) has been linked to several cancers, with small-molecule inhibitors of the catalytic subunit of the PRC2 enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) being recently approved for the treatment of epithelioid sarcoma (ES) and follicular lymphoma (FL). Compounds binding to the EED subunit of PRC2 have recently emerged as allosteric inhibitors of PRC2 methyltransferase activity. In contrast to orthosteric inhibitors that target EZH2, small molecules that bind to EED retain their efficacy in EZH2 inhibitor-resistant cell lines. In this paper we disclose the discovery of potent and orally bioavailable EED ligands with good solubilities. The solubility of the EED ligands was optimized through a variety of design tactics, with the resulting compounds exhibiting in vivo efficacy in EZH2-driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharan K Bagal
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Gregson
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel H O' Donovan
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Kurt G Pike
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Bloecher
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Peter Barton
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | | | - Erin Code
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Shaun M Fillery
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Jessie Hao-Ru Hsu
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Sameer P Kawatkar
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Chengzhi Li
- Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., 6 Taihe Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - David Longmire
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Youfeng Nai
- Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., 6 Taihe Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Samuel C Nash
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Pike
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - James Robinson
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Jon A Read
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Phillip B Rawlins
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Minhui Shen
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Jia Tang
- Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., 6 Taihe Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Peng Wang
- Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., 6 Taihe Road, BDA, Beijing 100176, P. R. China
| | - Haley Woods
- AstraZeneca, 35 Gatehouse Drive, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Beth Williamson
- AstraZeneca, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
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Kusakabe Y, Chiba T, Oshima M, Koide S, Rizq O, Aoyama K, Ao J, Kaneko T, Kanzaki H, Kanayama K, Maeda T, Saito T, Nakagawa R, Kobayashi K, Kiyono S, Nakamura M, Ogasawara S, Suzuki E, Nakamoto S, Yasui S, Mikata R, Muroyama R, Kanda T, Maruyama H, Kato J, Mimura N, Ma A, Jin J, Zen Y, Otsuka M, Kaneda A, Iwama A, Kato N. EZH1/2 inhibition augments the anti-tumor effects of sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21396. [PMID: 34725436 PMCID: PMC8560765 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00889-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Both EZH2 and its homolog EZH1 function as histone H3 Lysine 27 (H3K27) methyltransferases and repress the transcription of target genes. Dysregulation of H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) plays an important role in the development and progression of cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study investigated the relationship between the expression of EZH1/2 and the level of H3K27me3 in HCC. Additionally, the role of EZH1/2 in cell growth, tumorigenicity, and resistance to sorafenib were also analyzed. Both the lentiviral knockdown and the pharmacological inhibition of EZH1/2 (UNC1999) diminished the level of H3K27me3 and suppressed cell growth in liver cancer cells, compared with EZH1 or EZH2 single knockdown. Although a significant association was observed between EZH2 expression and H3K27me3 levels in HCC samples, overexpression of EZH1 appeared to contribute to enhanced H3K27me3 levels in some EZH2lowH3K27me3high cases. Akt suppression following sorafenib treatment resulted in an increase of the H3K27me3 levels through a decrease in EZH2 phosphorylation at serine 21. The combined use of sorafenib and UNC1999 exhibited synergistic antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo. Combination treatment canceled the sorafenib-induced enhancement in H3K27me3 levels, indicating that activation of EZH2 function is one of the mechanisms of sorafenib-resistance in HCC. In conclusion, sorafenib plus EZH1/2 inhibitors may comprise a novel therapeutic approach in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kusakabe
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Chiba
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Motohiko Oshima
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokenadai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Shuhei Koide
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokenadai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Ola Rizq
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokenadai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Aoyama
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Junjie Ao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kanzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kengo Kanayama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Takahiro Maeda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tomoko Saito
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kazufumi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kiyono
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Masato Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Sadahisa Ogasawara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Eiichiro Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Shin Yasui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Rintaro Mikata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Muroyama
- Department of Molecular Virology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Kanda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nihon University School of Medicine, 30-1 Oyaguchi-Kamicho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, 173-8610, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Maruyama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-08421, Japan
| | - Jun Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Naoya Mimura
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Anqi Ma
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yoh Zen
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Masayuki Otsuka
- Department of General Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kaneda
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Atsushi Iwama
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokenadai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Naoya Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
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Li Y, Yang G, Yang C, Tang P, Chen J, Zhang J, Liu J, Ouyang L. Targeting Autophagy-Related Epigenetic Regulators for Cancer Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2021; 64:11798-11815. [PMID: 34378389 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Existing evidence has demonstrated that epigenetic modifications (including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs), which are associated with the occurrence and development of tumors, can directly or indirectly regulate autophagy. In particular, nuclear events induced by several epigenetic regulators can regulate the autophagic process and expression levels of tumor-associated genes, thereby promoting tumor progression. Tumor-associated microRNAs, including oncogenic and tumor-suppressive microRNAs, are of great significance to autophagy during tumor progression. Targeting autophagy with emerging epigenetic drugs is expected to be a promising therapeutic strategy for human tumors. From this perspective, we aim to summarize the role of epigenetic modification in the autophagic process and the underlying molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the regulatory efficacy of epigenetic drugs on the autophagic process in tumors is also summarized. This perspective may provide a theoretical basis for the combined treatment of epigenetic drugs/autophagy mediators in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Gaoxia Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chengcan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Pan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Juncheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
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Zhou J, Yang Y, Wang YL, Zhao Y, Ye WJ, Deng SY, Lang JY, Lu S. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 contributes to apoptosis by inactivating janus kinase 2/ signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling in inflammatory bowel disease. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:3073-3084. [PMID: 34168409 PMCID: PMC8192283 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i22.3073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a prevalent worldwide health problem featured by relapsing, chronic gastrointestinal inflammation. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a critical epigenetic regulator in different pathological models, such as cancer and inflammation. However, the role of EZH2 in the IBD development is still obscure.
AIM To explore the effect of EZH2 on IBD progression and the underlying mechanism.
METHODS The IBD mouse model was conducted by adding dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), and the effect of EZH2 on DSS-induced colitis was assessed in the model. The function of EZH2 in regulating apoptosis and permeability was evaluated by Annexin V-FITC Apoptosis Detection Kit, transepithelial electrical resistance analysis, and Western blot analysis of related markers, including Zona occludens 1, claudin-5, and occludin, in NCM460 and fetal human colon (FHC) cells. The mechanical investigation was performed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays.
RESULTS The colon length was inhibited in the DSS-treated mice and was enhanced by the EZH2 depletion in the system. DSS treatment caused a decreased histological score in the mice, which was reversed by EZH2 depletion. The inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β, were induced in the DSS-treated mice, in which the depletion of EZH2 could reverse this effect. Moreover, the tumor necrosis factor-α treatment induced the apoptosis of NCM460 and FHC cells, in which EZH2 depletion could reverse this effect in the cells. Moreover, the depletion of EZH2 attenuated permeability of colonic epithelial cells. Mechanically, the depletion of EZH2 or EZH2 inhibitor GSK343 was able to enhance the expression and the phosphorylation of janus kinase 2 (JK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription in the NCM460 and FHC cells. Specifically, EZH2 inactivated JAK2 expression by regulating histone H3K27me3. JAK2 inhibitor TG101348 was able to reverse EZH2 knockdown-mediated colonic epithelial cell permeability and apoptosis.
CONCLUSION Thus, we concluded that EZH2 contributed to apoptosis and inflammatory response by inactivating JAK2/ signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling in IBD. EZH2 may be applied as a potential target for IBD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Oncology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu 255415, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yi-Ling Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Wen-Jing Ye
- Department of School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 397992, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Si-Yao Deng
- Department of School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 397992, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jin-Yi Lang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Radiological Protection, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 229717, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Shun Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Radiological Protection, Radiation Oncology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 229717, Sichuan Province, China
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14
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Shang Y, Wu C, Gao Q, Liu C, Li L, Zhang X, Cheng HG, Liu S, Zhou Q. Diversity-oriented functionalization of 2-pyridones and uracils. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2988. [PMID: 34016986 PMCID: PMC8137914 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23058-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterocycles 2-pyridone and uracil are privileged pharmacophores. Diversity-oriented synthesis of their derivatives is in urgent need in medicinal chemistry. Herein, we report a palladium/norbornene cooperative catalysis enabled dual-functionalization of iodinated 2-pyridones and uracils. The success of this research depends on the use of two unique norbornene derivatives as the mediator. Readily available alkyl halides/tosylates and aryl bromides are utilized as ortho-alkylating and -arylating reagents, respectively. Widely accessible ipso-terminating reagents, including H/DCO2Na, boronic acid/ester, terminal alkene and alkyne are compatible with this protocol. Thus, a large number of valuable 2-pyridone derivatives, including deuterium/CD3-labeled 2-pyridones, bicyclic 2-pyridones, 2-pyridone-fenofibrate conjugate, axially chiral 2-pyridone (97% ee), as well as uracil and thymine derivatives, can be quickly prepared in a predictable manner (79 examples reported), which will be very useful in new drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Shang
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenggui Wu
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qianwen Gao
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Lisha Li
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinping Zhang
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Gang Cheng
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianghui Zhou
- Sauvage Center for Molecular Sciences, Engineering Research Center of Organosilicon Compounds & Materials (Ministry of Education), College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, and The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan, China.
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Li X, Gera L, Zhang S, Chen Y, Lou L, Wilson LM, Xie ZR, Sautto G, Liu D, Danaher A, Mamouni K, Yang Y, Du Y, Fu H, Kucuk O, Osunkoya AO, Zhou J, Wu D. Pharmacological inhibition of noncanonical EED-EZH2 signaling overcomes chemoresistance in prostate cancer. Theranostics 2021; 11:6873-6890. [PMID: 34093859 PMCID: PMC8171087 DOI: 10.7150/thno.49235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Chemoresistance is a major obstacle in prostate cancer (PCa) treatment. We sought to understand the underlying mechanism of PCa chemoresistance and discover new treatments to overcome docetaxel resistance. Methods: We developed a novel phenotypic screening platform for the discovery of specific inhibitors of chemoresistant PCa cells. The mechanism of action of the lead compound was investigated using computational, molecular and cellular approaches. The in vivo toxicity and efficacy of the lead compound were evaluated in clinically-relevant animal models. Results: We identified LG1980 as a lead compound that demonstrates high selectivity and potency against chemoresistant PCa cells. Mechanistically, LG1980 binds embryonic ectoderm development (EED), disrupts the interaction between EED and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), thereby inducing the protein degradation of EZH2 and inhibiting the phosphorylation and activity of EZH2. Consequently, LG1980 targets a survival signaling cascade consisting of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (SKP2), ATP binding cassette B 1 (ABCB1) and survivin. As a lead compound, LG1980 is well tolerated in mice and effectively suppresses the in vivo growth of chemoresistant PCa and synergistically enhances the efficacy of docetaxel in xenograft models. Conclusions: These results indicate that pharmacological inhibition of EED-EZH2 interaction is a novel strategy for the treatment of chemoresistant PCa. LG1980 and its analogues have the potential to be integrated into standard of care to improve clinical outcomes in PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Lajos Gera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shumin Zhang
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Lou
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Marie Wilson
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Zhong-Ru Xie
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Giuseppe Sautto
- Center for Vaccines and Immunology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | | | - Alira Danaher
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kenza Mamouni
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Yang Yang
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuhong Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, and Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Haian Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, and Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Omer Kucuk
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adeboye O. Osunkoya
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Daqing Wu
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- MetCure Therapeutics LLC, Atlanta, GA, USA
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16
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Free energy perturbation in the design of EED ligands as inhibitors of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) methyltransferase. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 39:127904. [PMID: 33684441 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.127904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Free Energy Perturbation (FEP) calculations can provide high-confidence predictions of the interaction strength between a ligand and its protein target. We sought to explore a series of triazolopyrimidines which bind to the EED subunit of the PRC2 complex as potential anticancer therapeutics, using FEP calculations to inform compound design. Combining FEP predictions with a late-stage functionalisation (LSF) inspired synthetic approach allowed us to rapidly evaluate structural modifications in a previously unexplored region of the EED binding site. This approach generated a series of novel triazolopyrimidine EED ligands with improved physicochemical properties and which inhibit PRC2 methyltransferase activity in a cancer-relevant G401 cell line.
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Dockerill M, Gregson C, O' Donovan DH. Targeting PRC2 for the treatment of cancer: an updated patent review (2016 - 2020). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2021; 31:119-135. [PMID: 33103538 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2021.1841167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PRC2 is a histone methyltransferase complex associated with several cancer types. Tazemetostat was recently approved as the first inhibitor targeting the catalytic subunit EZH2 and several other EZH2 inhibitors are now under clinical evaluation. Beyond EZH2, researchers have also explored other approaches including PRC2 activators, dual agents inhibiting both EZH1 and EZH2, allosteric inhibitors binding to EED, and compounds which induce the degradation of PRC2 constituent proteins. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of anticancer therapies targeting PRC2 during the period 2016-2020 including clinical trials, patents and the scientific literature. EXPERT OPINION The approval of tazemetostat marks the clinical validation of EZH2 for the treatment of cancer. Despite this success many questions remain; for instance, tazemetostat was briefly placed on clinical hold for safety concerns, while another EZH2 inhibitor (GSK126) demonstrated insufficient efficacy during a Phase I/II trial. It is important to understand these risks as PRC2 therapies progress through clinic evaluation. Alternative approaches to target PRC2 may offer distinct advantages over the inhibition of EZH2, including the potential to overcome EZH2 resistance mutations. However, these emerging modalities may also incur new challenges as they progress toward the clinic. Nonetheless, the diversity of agents under development represents a wealth of therapeutic options for future patients.
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Stuckey JI, Cantone NR, Côté A, Arora S, Vivat V, Ramakrishnan A, Mertz JA, Khanna A, Brenneman J, Gehling VS, Moine L, Sims RJ, Audia JE, Trojer P, Levell JR, Cummings RT. Identification and characterization of second-generation EZH2 inhibitors with extended residence times and improved biological activity. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100349. [PMID: 33524394 PMCID: PMC7949150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone methyltransferase EZH2 has been the target of numerous small-molecule inhibitor discovery efforts over the last 10+ years. Emerging clinical data have provided early evidence for single agent activity with acceptable safety profiles for first-generation inhibitors. We have developed kinetic methodologies for studying EZH2-inhibitor-binding kinetics that have allowed us to identify a unique structural modification that results in significant increases in the drug-target residence times of all EZH2 inhibitor scaffolds we have studied. The unexpected residence time enhancement bestowed by this modification has enabled us to create a series of second-generation EZH2 inhibitors with sub-pM binding affinities. We provide both biophysical evidence validating this sub-pM potency and biological evidence demonstrating the utility and relevance of such high-affinity interactions with EZH2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob I Stuckey
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nico R Cantone
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandre Côté
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shilpi Arora
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Valerie Vivat
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Avinash Khanna
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Ludivine Moine
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert J Sims
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James E Audia
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patrick Trojer
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julian R Levell
- Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Yang X, Wang J, Li H, Sun Y, Tong X. Downregulation of hsa_circ_0026123 suppresses ovarian cancer cell metastasis and proliferation through the miR‑124‑3p/EZH2 signaling pathway. Int J Mol Med 2020; 47:668-676. [PMID: 33416105 PMCID: PMC7797451 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a role in various types of cancer. The present study suggested that hsa_ circ_0026123 expression was upregulated in ovarian cancer (OVA), which was associated with its role in OVA. However, the role of hsa_circ_0026123 in OVA cell invasion and proliferation remains unclear. In the present study, OVA tissues and cell lines were used to investigate the functions of hsa_circ_0026123. The associations between hsa_circ_0026123, miR-124-3p and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) were examined using a luciferase reporter assay. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were used for gene and protein expression analysis, respectively. Tumor growth was detected using nude mouse tumor xenografts derived from SKOV3 cells, with or without hsa_circ_0026123 downregulation. The results confirmed that hsa_circ_0026123 expression was upregulated in OVA tissues and cell lines, while hsa_circ_0026123 silencing suppressed cell proliferation and migration; it also suppressed the expression of cancer stem cell (CSC) differentiation-related markers in either in vivoor in vitro experiments. The data revealed that hsa_circ_0026123 downregulation suppressed EZH2 expression by miR-124-3p 'sponging', which was confirmed by rescue experiments and luciferase reporter assays. The results revealed that hsa_circ_0026123 silencing suppressed ovarian cancer cell progression via the miR-124-3p/EZH2 signaling pathway. Overall, the findings demonstrated that hsa_circ_0026123 knockdown inhibited OVA cell progression by regulating the miR-124-3p/EZH2 axis. This methodology may thus be used for the targeted therapy of OVA, as well as a candidate biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of OVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Huaifang Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, P.R. China
| | - Xiaowen Tong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
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20
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Neganova ME, Klochkov SG, Aleksandrova YR, Aliev G. Histone modifications in epigenetic regulation of cancer: Perspectives and achieved progress. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:452-471. [PMID: 32814115 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic changes associated with histone modifications play an important role in the emergence and maintenance of the phenotype of various cancer types. In contrast to direct mutations in the main DNA sequence, these changes are reversible, which makes the development of inhibitors of enzymes of post-translational histone modifications one of the most promising strategies for the creation of anticancer drugs. To date, a wide variety of histone modifications have been found that play an important role in the regulation of chromatin state, gene expression, and other nuclear events. This review examines the main features of the most common and studied epigenetic histone modifications with a proven role in the pathogenesis of a wide range of malignant neoplasms: acetylation / deacetylation and methylation / demethylation of histone proteins, as well as the role of enzymes of the HAT / HDAC and HMT / HDMT families in the development of oncological pathologies. The data on the relationship between histone modifications and certain types of cancer are presented and discussed. Special attention is devoted to the consideration of various strategies for the development of epigenetic inhibitors. The main directions of the development of inhibitors of histone modifications are analyzed and effective strategies for their creation are identified and discussed. The most promising strategy is the use of multitarget drugs, which will affect multiple molecular targets of cancer. A critical analysis of the current status of approved epigenetic anticancer drugs has also been performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita E Neganova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences, 1, Severnii pr., Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation
| | - Sergey G Klochkov
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences, 1, Severnii pr., Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation
| | - Yulia R Aleksandrova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences, 1, Severnii pr., Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation
| | - Gjumrakch Aliev
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences, 1, Severnii pr., Chernogolovka, 142432, Russian Federation.,I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation.,Laboratory of Cellular Pathology, Federal State Budgetary Institution «Research Institute of Human Morphology», 3, Tsyurupy Str., Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation.,GALLY International Research Institute, 7733 Louis Pasteur Drive, #330, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
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21
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Shankar E, Franco D, Iqbal O, Moreton S, Kanwal R, Gupta S. Dual targeting of EZH2 and androgen receptor as a novel therapy for castration-resistant prostate cancer. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 404:115200. [PMID: 32805266 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) emerges after androgen withdrawal therapy and remains incurable due to the lack of effective treatment protocols. Treatment with enzalutamide, a second generation androgen receptor (AR) antagonist, offers an initial response followed by drug resistance and tumor relapse. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a member of PRC2 complex, is an important target that acts as a coactivator of AR-mediated gene suppression whose oncogenic activity increases during castration. We hypothesize that dual targeting of EZH2 and AR could be highly effective in CRPC treatment. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of combination using EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 with antiandrogen enzalutamide in the treatment of CRPC cells. Treatment of 22Rv1 and C42B CRPC cells with a combination of GSK126 and enzalutamide led to synergistic inhibition of cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest and marked increase in cell death. Mechanistically, this combination treatment significantly reduced expression of AR and AR-v7, decrease in PSA and Akt activity, diminution of EZH2 and other members of PCR2 complex including SUZ12 and EED, with simultaneous loss of H3K27 trimethylation and dissociation between AR and PRC2 complex members compared to individual treatment. This study provides preclinical proof-of-concept that combined treatment of EZH2 inhibitor with AR antagonist results in synergistic anticancer effects opening new possibilities for treatment of CRPC tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eswar Shankar
- Department of Urology, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Daniel Franco
- College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Omair Iqbal
- College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Stephen Moreton
- Department of Urology, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Rajnee Kanwal
- Department of Urology, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Department of Urology, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Urology, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Division of General Medical Sciences, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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22
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Kang SJ, Chun T. Structural heterogeneity of the mammalian polycomb repressor complex in immune regulation. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1004-1015. [PMID: 32636442 PMCID: PMC8080698 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation is mainly mediated by enzymes that can modify the structure of chromatin by altering the structure of DNA or histones. Proteins involved in epigenetic processes have been identified to study the detailed molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of specific mRNA expression. Evolutionarily well-conserved polycomb group (PcG) proteins can function as transcriptional repressors by the trimethylation of histone H3 at the lysine 27 residue (H3K27me3) and the monoubiquitination of histone H2A at the lysine 119 residue (H2AK119ub). PcG proteins form two functionally distinct protein complexes: polycomb repressor complex 1 (PRC1) and PRC2. In mammals, the structural heterogeneity of each PRC complex is dramatically increased by several paralogs of its subunit proteins. Genetic studies with transgenic mice along with RNA-seq and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-seq analyses might be helpful for defining the cell-specific functions of paralogs of PcG proteins. Here, we summarize current knowledge about the immune regulatory role of PcG proteins related to the compositional diversity of each PRC complex and introduce therapeutic drugs that target PcG proteins in hematopoietic malignancy. Protein complexes that suppress gene activity by remodeling chromatin, the substance that contains most of a cell’s DNA, play a critical role in regulating the immune system and provide a therapeutic target for treating blood cancers. Seok-Jin Kang and Taehoon Chun from Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, review how polycomb group proteins, best known for their function in embryonic development, also contribute to the formation of immune cells from blood stem cell precursors. Studies with stem cells and cancer cells have begun to reveal many targets of these proteins, and drug companies are evaluating candidate agents directed against some polycomb group proteins in patients with lymphoma and other cancers. More comprehensive profiling of protein function across a broad range of immune cell types could reveal new targets for additional diseases associated with immune dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok-Jin Kang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehoon Chun
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Rugo HS, Jacobs I, Sharma S, Scappaticci F, Paul TA, Jensen-Pergakes K, Malouf GG. The Promise for Histone Methyltransferase Inhibitors for Epigenetic Therapy in Clinical Oncology: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3059-3082. [PMID: 32445185 PMCID: PMC7467409 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes are essential for normal development and the maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression in mammals. Changes in gene expression and malignant cellular transformation can result from disruption of epigenetic mechanisms, and global disruption in the epigenetic landscape is a key feature of cancer. The study of epigenetics in cancer has revealed that human cancer cells harbor both genetic alterations and epigenetic abnormalities that interplay at all stages of cancer development. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic aberrations are potentially reversible through epigenetic therapy, providing a therapeutically relevant treatment option. Histone methyltransferase inhibitors are emerging as an epigenetic therapy approach with great promise in the field of clinical oncology. The recent accelerated approval of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2; also known as histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2) inhibitor tazemetostat for metastatic or locally advanced epithelioid sarcoma marks the first approval of such a compound for the treatment of cancer. Many other histone methyltransferase inhibitors are currently in development, some of which are being tested in clinical studies. This review focuses on histone methyltransferase inhibitors, highlighting their potential in the treatment of cancer. We also discuss the role for such epigenetic drugs in overcoming epigenetically driven drug resistance mechanisms, and their value in combination with other therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy.
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24
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Li Y, Yuan F, Song Y, Guan X. miR-17-5p and miR-19b-3p prevent osteoarthritis progression by targeting EZH2. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:1653-1663. [PMID: 32765678 PMCID: PMC7388554 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease caused by a variety of factors, including aging, obesity and trauma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to be crucial regulators during OA progression. The present study aimed to investigate the role of miR-17-5p and miR-19b-3p during OA development. Interleukin (IL)-1β-treated chondrocytes were used to mimic OA in vitro. The expression levels of miR-17-5p and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) were measured in cartilage tissues and chondrocytes using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR or western blotting. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. The protein expression levels of extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated genes were detected by western blotting. The binding sites between miR-17-5p or miR-19b-3p and EZH2 were predicted using the MicroT-CDS online database and verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RIP assays. miR-17-5p expression was downregulated, whereas EZH2 expression was upregulated in OA cartilage tissues and IL-1β-induced chondrocytes compared with that in the control tissues and cells. miR-17-5p mimics inhibited IL-1β-induced apoptosis and ECM degradation in chondrocytes. EZH2 was the target of miR-17-5p and miR-19b-3p in chondrocytes, and enhanced apoptosis and ECM degradation in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes. Rescue experiments revealed that miR-17-5p or miR-19b-3p mimic-induced inhibition of OA progression was reversed by EZH2 overexpression. In conclusion, miR-17-5p and miR-19b-3p inhibited OA progression by targeting EZH2, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target for OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Fangchang Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Yuxi Song
- Department of Hand Surgery, The People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Xiliang Guan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
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25
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Zhou Y, Du DH, Wang J, Cai XQ, Deng AX, Nosjean O, Boutin JA, Renard P, Yang DH, Luo C, Wang MW. Identification of catalytic and non-catalytic activity inhibitors against PRC2-EZH2 complex through multiple high-throughput screening campaigns. Chem Biol Drug Des 2020; 96:1024-1051. [PMID: 32394628 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) along with embryonic ectoderm development (EED) and suppressor of zeste 12 (SUZ12), which implements transcriptional repression mainly by depositing trimethylation marks at lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3). Its catalytic activity is closely correlated with the stability of PRC2, and somatic activating mutation of EZH2 Y641F within the catalytic SET domain drives tumor aggressiveness, drug resistance, and poor prognosis. Here, we report two high-throughput screening (HTS) campaigns targeting EZH2 Y641F and EZH2-EED interaction, respectively. For the EZH2 Y641F mutant, the HTS campaign involved a library of 250,000 compounds using a homogenous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay and identified 162 hits, while 60,160 compounds were screened against EZH2-EED interaction with a fluorescence polarization (FP) assay resulting in 97 hits. Among the 162 EZH2 Y641F inhibitors, 38 also suppressed EZH2-EED interaction and 80 showed inhibitory effects on the wide-type (WT) EZH2. Meanwhile, 10 of the 97 EZH2-EED interaction inhibitors were active against WT EZH2. These hit compounds provide useful tools for the development of novel PRC2-EZH2 inhibitors targeting its catalytic and non-catalytic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China
| | - Dao-Hai Du
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Wang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Cai
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China
| | - Alicia X Deng
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | - De-Hua Yang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and The CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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26
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Yamazaki S, Gukasyan HJ, Wang H, Uryu S, Sharma S. Translational Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Modeling for an Orally Available Novel Inhibitor of Epigenetic Regulator Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 373:220-229. [PMID: 32094296 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.263491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PF06821497 has been identified as an orally available small-molecule enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitor. The objectives of the present study were to characterize pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic-disease relationships of PF06821497 in xenograft mouse models with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (Karpas422). An indirect-response model reasonably fit dose-dependent pharmacodynamic responses [histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27) me3 inhibition] with an unbound EC 50 of 76 nM, whereas a signal-transduction model sufficiently fit dose-dependent disease responses (tumor growth inhibition) with an unbound tumor stasis concentration (T sc ) of 168 nM. Thus, effective concentration for 70% of maximal effect (EC70) for H3K27me3 inhibition was roughly comparable to T sc , suggesting that 70% H3K27me3 inhibition could be required for tumor stasis. Consistently, an integrated pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic-disease model adequately describing tumor growth inhibition also suggested that ∼70% H3K27me3 inhibition was associated with tumor stasis. Based on these results, we would propose that an EC70 estimate for H3K27me3 inhibition corresponding to tumor stasis could be considered a minimum target efficacious concentration of PF06821497 in cancer patients. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Using a mathematical modeling approach, the quantitative relationships of an orally available anticancer small-molecule enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitor, PF06821497, were characterized among pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamic biomarker inhibition, and disease responses in nonclinical xenograft models with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The modeling results suggest that >70% histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27) me3 inhibition would be required for tumor stasis (i.e., 100% tumor growth inhibition). Accordingly, we would propose that an effective concentration for 70% of maximal effect estimate for H3K27me3 inhibition could be considered a minimum target efficacious concentration of PF06821497 in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Yamazaki
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism (S.Y.), Pharmaceutical Science (H.J.G.), and Oncology Research Unit (H.W., S.U., S.S.), Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, San Diego, California
| | - Hovhannes J Gukasyan
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism (S.Y.), Pharmaceutical Science (H.J.G.), and Oncology Research Unit (H.W., S.U., S.S.), Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, San Diego, California
| | - Hui Wang
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism (S.Y.), Pharmaceutical Science (H.J.G.), and Oncology Research Unit (H.W., S.U., S.S.), Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, San Diego, California
| | - Sean Uryu
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism (S.Y.), Pharmaceutical Science (H.J.G.), and Oncology Research Unit (H.W., S.U., S.S.), Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, San Diego, California
| | - Shikhar Sharma
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism (S.Y.), Pharmaceutical Science (H.J.G.), and Oncology Research Unit (H.W., S.U., S.S.), Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, San Diego, California
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27
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Huang D, Tian S, Qi Y, Zhang JZH. Binding Modes of Small-Molecule Inhibitors to the EED Pocket of PRC2. Chemphyschem 2020; 21:263-271. [PMID: 31816138 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.201900903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Polycomb Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) plays a key role in silencing epigenetic gene through trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone 3 (H3K27). Dysregulations of PRC2 caused by overexpression and mutations of the core subunits of PRC2 have been implicated in many cancers. The core subunits EZH1/2 are histone-lysine N-methyltransferases that function as the enzymatic component of PRC2. While the core subunit EED is a scaffolding protein to support EZH1/2 and binds JARID2K116me3/H3K27me3 to enhance the enzymatic activity of PRC2 through allosteric activation. Recently, several small molecules that compete with JARI2K116me3 and H3K27me3 have been reported. These molecules selectively bind to the JARID2K116me3/H3K27me3-binding pocket of EED, thereby preventing the allosteric regulation of PRC2. These first-in-class PRC2 inhibitors show robust suppression in DLBCL cell lines, demonstrating anticancer drugs that target the EED subunit of PRC2 are viable. In this study, we used the recently developed MM/GBSA_IE and the alanine scanning method to analyze the hot spots in EED/inhibitor interactions. The analysis of these hot and warm spots helps us to understand the fundamental differences between inhibitors. Our results give a quantitative explanation on why the binding affinities of EED/A-395 interactions are stronger than that of EED/EED226 while their binding modes are similar and provide valuable insights for rational design of novel EED inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dading Huang
- School of Physics and Material Science, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics & New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Shuaizhen Tian
- School of Physics and Material Science, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics & New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yifei Qi
- School of Physics and Material Science, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics & New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.,NYU-ECNU Center for Computational Chemistry at NYU Shanghai, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - John Z H Zhang
- School of Physics and Material Science, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics & New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.,NYU-ECNU Center for Computational Chemistry at NYU Shanghai, Shanghai, 200062, China.,Department of Chemistry, New York University, NY, NY 10003, USA.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030006, China
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28
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Tomaselli D, Lucidi A, Rotili D, Mai A. Epigenetic polypharmacology: A new frontier for epi-drug discovery. Med Res Rev 2020; 40:190-244. [PMID: 31218726 PMCID: PMC6917854 DOI: 10.1002/med.21600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recently, despite the great success achieved by the so-called "magic bullets" in the treatment of different diseases through a marked and specific interaction with the target of interest, the pharmacological research is moving toward the development of "molecular network active compounds," embracing the related polypharmacology approach. This strategy was born to overcome the main limitations of the single target therapy leading to a superior therapeutic effect, a decrease of adverse reactions, and a reduction of potential mechanism(s) of drug resistance caused by robustness and redundancy of biological pathways. It has become clear that multifactorial diseases such as cancer, neurological, and inflammatory disorders, may require more complex therapeutic approaches hitting a certain biological system as a whole. Concerning epigenetics, the goal of the multi-epi-target approach consists in the development of small molecules able to simultaneously and (often) reversibly bind different specific epi-targets. To date, two dual histone deacetylase/kinase inhibitors (CUDC-101 and CUDC-907) are in an advanced stage of clinical trials. In the last years, the growing interest in polypharmacology encouraged the publication of high-quality reviews on combination therapy and hybrid molecules. Hence, to update the state-of-the-art of these therapeutic approaches avoiding redundancy, herein we focused only on multiple medication therapies and multitargeting compounds exploiting epigenetic plus nonepigenetic drugs reported in the literature in 2018. In addition, all the multi-epi-target inhibitors known in literature so far, hitting two or more epigenetic targets, have been included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Tomaselli
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessia Lucidi
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs,
“Sapienza” University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
- Pasteur Institute - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Viale
Regina Elena 291, 00161 Roma, Italy
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29
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Di Pietro A, Good-Jacobson KL. Disrupting the Code: Epigenetic Dysregulation of Lymphocyte Function during Infectious Disease and Lymphoma Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 201:1109-1118. [PMID: 30082273 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lymphocyte differentiation and identity are controlled by signals in the microenvironment that ultimately mediate gene expression in the nucleus. Although much focus has centered on the strategic and often unique roles transcription factors play within lymphocyte subsets, it is increasingly clear that another level of molecular regulation is crucial for regulating gene expression programs. In particular, epigenetic regulation is critical for appropriately regulated temporal and cell-type-specific gene expression during immune responses. As such, mutations in epigenetic modifiers are linked with lymphomagenesis. Furthermore, certain infections can remodel the epigenome in host cells, either through the microenvironment or by directly co-opting host epigenetic mechanisms, leading to inappropriate gene expression and/or ineffective cellular behavior. This review will focus on how histone modifications and DNA methylation, and the enzymes that regulate the epigenome, underpin lymphocyte differentiation and function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Di Pietro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia; and Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Kim L Good-Jacobson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia; and Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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30
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Kumari K, Das B, Adhya AK, Rath AK, Mishra SK. Genome-wide expression analysis reveals six contravened targets of EZH2 associated with breast cancer patient survival. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1974. [PMID: 30760814 PMCID: PMC6374476 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39122-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Several pioneering work have established that apart from genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications contribute significantly in tumor progression. Remarkable role of EZH2 in cancer highlights the importance of identifying its targets. Although much emphasis has been placed in recent years in designing drugs and inhibitors targeting EZH2, less effort has been given in exploring its existing targets that will help in understanding the oncogenic role of EZH2 in turn which may provide a more stringent method of targeting EZH2. In the present study, we validated six direct targets of EZH2 that are GPNMB, PMEPA1, CoL5A1, VGLL4, POMT2 and SUMF1 associated with cancer related pathways. Upon EZH2 knockdown, more than two fold increase in the target gene expression was evident. CHIP-qPCR performed in both MCF-7 and MDA-MDA-231 confirmed the in-vivo binding of EZH2 on its identified target. Thirty invasive breast carcinoma cases with their adjacent normal tissues were included in the study. Immunohistochemistry in primary breast tumor tissue array showed tumor dependent expression of EZH2. Array of MERAV expression database revealed the strength of association of EZH2 with its target genes. Real time PCR performed with RNA extracted from breast tumor tissues further authenticated the existing negative correlation between EZH2 and its target genes. Pearson correlation coefficient & statistical significance computed using the matrix provided in the database strengthened the negative correlation between identified target genes and EZH2. KM plotter analysis showed improved relapse-free survival with increased expression of PMEPA1, POMT2, VGLL4 and SUMF1 in breast cancer patients indicating their therapeutic potential. While investigating the relevance of these target genes, different mutations of them were found in breast cancer patients. Seeking the clinical relevance of our study, following our recent publication that reports the role of EZH2 in nicotine-mediated breast cancer development and progression, we observed significant reduced expression of SUMF1 in breast cancer patient samples with smoking history in comparison to never-smoked patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Kumari
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.,Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Biswajit Das
- Tumor Microenvironment and Animal Models Laboratory, Department of Translational Research, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.,Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Amit K Adhya
- Department of Pathology, AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Arabinda K Rath
- Hemalata Hospitals and Research Centre, Chandrashekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sandip K Mishra
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Increasing evidence suggests that epigenome plays a central role in cancer development making it a promising target for anticancer treatments. Here, we review two new classes of epigenome-targeting agents: the bromodomain and extraterminal domain proteins (BET) inhibitors and the enhancer of zeste homolog (EZH2) inhibitors. RECENT FINDINGS Clinical research evaluating BET and EZH2 inhibitors is still at an early stage; however, both classes of drugs have demonstrated activity among different hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Several studies on BETi and EZH2i are ongoing to better define their potential role in cancer treatment, which patients are most likely to benefit and if the association with other drugs can improve their efficacy.
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Zhang G, Barragan F, Wilson K, Levy N, Herskovits A, Sapozhnikov M, Rodríguez Y, Kelmendi L, Alkasimi H, Korsmo H, Chowdhury M, Gerona‐Navarro G. A Solid‐Phase Approach to Accessing Bisthioether‐Stapled Peptides Resulting in a Potent Inhibitor of PRC2 Catalytic Activity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201810007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry The Graduate Center of The City University of New York New York NY USA
| | - Flavia Barragan
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Khadija Wilson
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Nissim Levy
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Adam Herskovits
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Milana Sapozhnikov
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Yoel Rodríguez
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
- Department of Natural Sciences Hostos Community College of The City University of New York 475 Grand Concourse Bronx NY 10451 USA
| | - Leutrim Kelmendi
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Haleem Alkasimi
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Hunter Korsmo
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Maisha Chowdhury
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
| | - Guillermo Gerona‐Navarro
- Department of Chemistry Brooklyn College of The City University of New York 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn NY 11210 USA
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry The Graduate Center of The City University of New York New York NY USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry The Graduate Center of The City University of New York New York NY USA
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33
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Zhang G, Barragan F, Wilson K, Levy N, Herskovits A, Sapozhnikov M, Rodríguez Y, Kelmendi L, Alkasimi H, Korsmo H, Chowdhury M, Gerona-Navarro G. A Solid-Phase Approach to Accessing Bisthioether-Stapled Peptides Resulting in a Potent Inhibitor of PRC2 Catalytic Activity. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018; 57:17073-17078. [PMID: 30339297 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201810007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Stapled peptides have emerged as a new class of therapeutics to effectively target intractable protein-protein interactions. Thus, efficient and versatile methods granting easy access to this class of compounds and expanding the scope(s) of the currently available ones are of great interest. Now, a solid phase approach is described for the synthesis of bisthioether stapled peptides with multiple architectures, including single-turn, double-turn, and double-stapled macrocycles. This method allows for ligation with all-hydrocarbon linkers of various lengths, avoiding the use of unnatural amino acids and expensive catalysts, and affords cyclopeptides with remarkable resistance to proteolytic degradation. The potential of this procedure is demonstrated by applying it to generate a stapled peptide that shows potent in vitro inhibition of methyltransferase activity of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) of proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA.,Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Flavia Barragan
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Khadija Wilson
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Nissim Levy
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Adam Herskovits
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Milana Sapozhnikov
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Yoel Rodríguez
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA.,Department of Natural Sciences, Hostos Community College of The City University of New York, 475 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY, 10451, USA
| | - Leutrim Kelmendi
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Haleem Alkasimi
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Hunter Korsmo
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Maisha Chowdhury
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Guillermo Gerona-Navarro
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA.,Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.,Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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34
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Histone methylation changes are required for life cycle progression in the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1007066. [PMID: 29782530 PMCID: PMC5983875 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms and chromatin structure play an important role in development. Their impact is therefore expected to be strong in parasites with complex life cycles and multiple, strikingly different, developmental stages, i.e. developmental plasticity. Some studies have already described how the chromatin structure, through histone modifications, varies from a developmental stage to another in a few unicellular parasites. While H3K4me3 profiles remain relatively constant, H3K27 trimethylation and bivalent methylation show strong variation. Inhibitors (A366 and GSK343) of H3K27 histone methyltransferase activity in S. mansoni efficiently blocked miracidium to sporocyst transition indicating that H3K27 trimethylation is required for life cycle progression. As S. mansoni is a multicellular parasite that significantly affects both the health and economy of endemic areas, a better understanding of fluke developmental processes within the definitive host will likely highlight novel disease control strategies. Towards this goal, we also studied H4K20me1 in female cercariae and adults. In particular, we found that bivalent trimethylation of H3K4 and H3K27 at the transcription start site of genes is a landmark of the cercarial stage. In cercariae, H3K27me3 presence and strong enrichment in H4K20me1 over long regions (10–100 kb) is associated with development related genes. Here, we provide a broad overview of the chromatin structure of a metazoan parasite throughout its most important lifecycle stages. The five developmental stages studied here present distinct chromatin structures, indicating that histone methylation plays an important role during development. Hence, components of the histone methylation (and demethylation) machinery may provide suitable Schistosomiasis control targets. Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic flatworm and causative agent of intestinal schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease affecting 67 million people worldwide. The parasite has a complex life cycle involving two consecutive obligate hosts (a poikilotherm snail and a homeotherm mammal) and two transitions between these hosts as free-swimming larvae. Here, we show that the chromatin structure of five different developmental stages is characterized by specific changes in chemical modifications of histones, basic proteins that are closely associated with DNA (trimethylation of lysines 4 and 27 and histone H3, and monomethylation of lysine 20 on histone H4). These modifications occur around protein coding genes as well as within repetitive genomic elements. A functional role for histone methylation during schistosome development was elucidated by the use of epi-drugs targeting G9a/GLP and EZH2 histone methyltransferase orthologs in S. mansoni. Our results indicate that histone methylation plays an important role during schistosome development and suggest that the enzymes responsible for maintaining these chromatin modifications are suitable targets for anti-schistosomal drugs.
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35
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Abstract
Dysregulation of the histone methyltransferase EZH2 plays a critical role in the development of a variety of malignancies including B-cell lymphomas. As a result, a series of small molecule inhibitors of EZH2 have been developed and studied in the pre-clinical setting. Three EZH2 inhibitors: tazemetostat (EPZ-6438), GSK2816126 and CPI-1205 have moved into phase I/phase II clinical trials in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and genetically defined solid tumors. Early data from the tazemetostat trials indicate an acceptable safety profile and early signs of activity in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma, including patients with EZH2 wild-type and mutant tumors. In this review, we present the rationale, key pre-clinical and early clinical findings of small molecule EZH2 inhibitors for use in lymphoma as well as future challenges and potential opportunities for combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitya Gulati
- a Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,b Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Wendy Béguelin
- c Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
| | - Lisa Giulino-Roth
- a Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA.,b Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA.,c Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine , Weill Cornell Medical College , New York , NY , USA
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36
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Lu B, Shen X, Zhang L, Liu D, Zhang C, Cao J, Shen R, Zhang J, Wang D, Wan H, Xu Z, Ho MH, Zhang M, Zhang L, He F, Tao W. Discovery of EBI-2511: A Highly Potent and Orally Active EZH2 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. ACS Med Chem Lett 2018; 9:98-102. [PMID: 29456795 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.7b00437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel series of benzofuran derived EZH2 inhibitors were discovered through a scaffold hopping approach based on the clinical compound of EPZ-6438. Further rational structure-activity relationship exploration and optimization led to the discovery of more potent EZH2 inhibitors with oral bioavailability in mice and rats. A lead compound EBI-2511 (compound 34) demonstrated excellent in vivo efficacy in Pfeiffer tumor Xenograft models in mouse and is under preclinical development for the treatment of cancers associated with EZH2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Lu
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Xiaodong Shen
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Eternity Bioscience Inc., 6 Cedarbrook
Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512, United States
| | - Caihua Zhang
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Jingsong Cao
- Eternity Bioscience Inc., 6 Cedarbrook
Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512, United States
| | - Ru Shen
- Eternity Bioscience Inc., 6 Cedarbrook
Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512, United States
| | - Jiayin Zhang
- Eternity Bioscience Inc., 6 Cedarbrook
Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512, United States
| | - Dan Wang
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Hong Wan
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Zhibin Xu
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Ming-Hsun Ho
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Minsheng Zhang
- Eternity Bioscience Inc., 6 Cedarbrook
Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512, United States
| | - Lianshan Zhang
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Feng He
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
| | - Weikang Tao
- Shanghai Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 279 Wenjing Road, Minhang Hi-tech Zone, Shanghai 200245, China
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