1
|
Guidetti L, Castelli R, Zappia A, Ferrari FR, Giorgio C, Barocelli E, Pagliaro L, Vento F, Roti G, Scalvini L, Vacondio F, Rivara S, Mor M, Lodola A, Tognolini M. Discovery of a new 1-(phenylsulfonyl)-1H-indole derivative targeting the EphA2 receptor with antiproliferative activity on U251 glioblastoma cell line. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116681. [PMID: 39024966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116681] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
In our continuing effort devoted at developing agents targeting the EphA2 receptor by means of protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors, we report here the design and synthesis of a new class of l-β-homotryptophan conjugates of 3-β-hydroxy-Δ5-cholenic acid bearing a set of arylsulfonyl substituents at the indole nitrogen atom. An extensive structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis indicates that the presence of a bulky lipophilic moiety at the indole nitrogen is fundamental for improving potency on the EphA2 receptor, while abrogating activity on the EphB1-EphB3 receptor subtypes. A rational exploration, guided by the combined application of an experimental design on σp and π physicochemical descriptors and docking simulations, led to the discovery of UniPR1454, a 1-(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)sulfonyl derivative acting as potent and competitive EphA2 antagonist able to inhibit ephrin-A1 dependent signals and to reduce proliferation of glioblastoma (U251) cell line at micromolar concentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Guidetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alfonso Zappia
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Carmine Giorgio
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Barocelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliaro
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy; Ematologia e CTMO, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy; Translational Hematology and Chemogenomics (THEC), Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Vento
- Translational Hematology and Chemogenomics (THEC), Università di Parma, Parma, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Roti
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy; Ematologia e CTMO, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy; Translational Hematology and Chemogenomics (THEC), Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Scalvini
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Vacondio
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy; Microbiome Research Hub, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sasine JP, Kozlova NY, Valicente L, Dukov J, Tran DH, Himburg HA, Kumar S, Khorsandi S, Chan A, Grohe S, Li M, Kan J, Sehl ME, Schiller GJ, Reinhardt B, Singh BK, Ho R, Yue P, Pasquale EB, Chute JP. Inhibition of Ephrin B2 Reverse Signaling Abolishes Multiple Myeloma Pathogenesis. Cancer Res 2024; 84:919-934. [PMID: 38231476 PMCID: PMC10940855 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Bone marrow vascular endothelial cells (BM EC) regulate multiple myeloma pathogenesis. Identification of the mechanisms underlying this interaction could lead to the development of improved strategies for treating multiple myeloma. Here, we performed a transcriptomic analysis of human ECs with high capacity to promote multiple myeloma growth, revealing overexpression of the receptor tyrosine kinases, EPHB1 and EPHB4, in multiple myeloma-supportive ECs. Expression of ephrin B2 (EFNB2), the binding partner for EPHB1 and EPHB4, was significantly increased in multiple myeloma cells. Silencing EPHB1 or EPHB4 in ECs suppressed multiple myeloma growth in coculture. Similarly, loss of EFNB2 in multiple myeloma cells blocked multiple myeloma proliferation and survival in vitro, abrogated multiple myeloma engraftment in immune-deficient mice, and increased multiple myeloma sensitivity to chemotherapy. Administration of an EFNB2-targeted single-chain variable fragment also suppressed multiple myeloma growth in vivo. In contrast, overexpression of EFNB2 in multiple myeloma cells increased STAT5 activation, increased multiple myeloma cell survival and proliferation, and decreased multiple myeloma sensitivity to chemotherapy. Conversely, expression of mutant EFNB2 lacking reverse signaling capacity in multiple myeloma cells increased multiple myeloma cell death and sensitivity to chemotherapy and abolished multiple myeloma growth in vivo. Complementary analysis of multiple myeloma patient data revealed that increased EFNB2 expression is associated with adverse-risk disease and decreased survival. This study suggests that EFNB2 reverse signaling controls multiple myeloma pathogenesis and can be therapeutically targeted to improve multiple myeloma outcomes. SIGNIFICANCE Ephrin B2 reverse signaling mediated by endothelial cells directly regulates multiple myeloma progression and treatment resistance, which can be overcome through targeted inhibition of ephrin B2 to abolish myeloma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P. Sasine
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Natalia Y. Kozlova
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lisa Valicente
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jennifer Dukov
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
| | - Dana H. Tran
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
| | - Heather A. Himburg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sarah Khorsandi
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Aldi Chan
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Samantha Grohe
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michelle Li
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jenny Kan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mary E. Sehl
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Gary J. Schiller
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Bryanna Reinhardt
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Brijesh Kumar Singh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ritchie Ho
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Peibin Yue
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Elena B. Pasquale
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, San Diego, California
| | - John P. Chute
- Division of Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tröster A, Jores N, Mineev KS, Sreeramulu S, DiPrima M, Tosato G, Schwalbe H. Targeting EPHA2 with Kinase Inhibitors in Colorectal Cancer. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202300420. [PMID: 37736700 PMCID: PMC10843416 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The ephrin type-A 2 receptor tyrosine kinase (EPHA2) is involved in the development and progression of various cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). There is also evidence that EPHA2 plays a key role in the development of resistance to the endothelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibody Cetuximab used clinically in CRC. Despite the promising pharmacological potential of EPHA2, only a handful of specific inhibitors are currently available. In this concept paper, general strategies for EPHA2 inhibition with molecules of low molecular weight (small molecules) are described. Furthermore, available examples of inhibiting EPHA2 in CRC using small molecules are summarized, highlighting the potential of this approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alix Tröster
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 7, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nathalie Jores
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 7, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Konstantin S Mineev
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 7, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sridhar Sreeramulu
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 7, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael DiPrima
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), 37 Convent Drive, NIH Bethesda Campus Building 37, Room 4124, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Giovanna Tosato
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), 37 Convent Drive, NIH Bethesda Campus Building 37, Room 4124, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Harald Schwalbe
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance, Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 7, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Guidetti L, Zappia A, Scalvini L, Ferrari FR, Giorgio C, Castelli R, Galvani F, Vacondio F, Rivara S, Mor M, Urbinati C, Rusnati M, Tognolini M, Lodola A. Molecular Determinants of EphA2 and EphB2 Antagonism Enable the Design of Ligands with Improved Selectivity. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:6900-6911. [PMID: 37910792 PMCID: PMC10647059 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c01064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
With the aim of identifying novel antagonists selective for the EphA receptor family, a combined experimental and computational approach was taken to investigate the molecular basis of the recognition between a prototypical Eph-ephrin antagonist (UniPR1447) and two representative receptors of the EphA and EphB subfamilies, namely, EphA2 and EphB2 receptors. The conformational free-energy surface (FES) of the binding state of UniPR1447 within the ligand binding domain of EphA2 and EphB2, reconstructed from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations performed on the microsecond time scale, was exploited to drive the design and synthesis of a novel antagonist selective for EphA2 over the EphB2 receptor. The availability of compounds with this pharmacological profile will help discriminate the importance of these two receptors in the insurgence and progression of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Guidetti
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alfonso Zappia
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Scalvini
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ferrari
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Carmine Giorgio
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Galvani
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Federica Vacondio
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
- Microbiome
Research Hub, Università degli Studi
di Parma, Parco Area
delle scienze 11/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Urbinati
- Dipartimento
di Medicina Molecolare Traslazionale, Università
degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia 25121, Italy
| | - Marco Rusnati
- Dipartimento
di Medicina Molecolare Traslazionale, Università
degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia 25121, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento
di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, I- 43124 Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Festuccia C, Corrado M, Rossetti A, Castelli R, Lodola A, Gravina GL, Tognolini M, Giorgio C. A Pharmacological Investigation of Eph-Ephrin Antagonism in Prostate Cancer: UniPR1331 Efficacy Evidence. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1452. [PMID: 37895923 PMCID: PMC10609876 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Eph kinases are the largest receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) family in humans. PC3 human prostate adenocarcinoma cells are a well-established model for studying Eph-ephrin pharmacology as they naturally express a high level of EphA2, a promising target for new cancer therapies. A pharmacological approach with agonists did not show significant efficacy on tumor growth in prostate orthotopic murine models, but reduced distal metastasis formation. In order to improve the comprehension of the pharmacological targeting of Eph receptors in prostate cancer, in the present work, we investigated the efficacy of Eph antagonism both in vitro and in vivo, using UniPR1331, a small orally bioavailable Eph-ephrin interaction inhibitor. UniPR1331 was able to inhibit PC3 cells' growth in vitro in a dose-dependent manner, affecting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. Moreover, UniPR1331 promoted the PC3 epithelial phenotype, downregulating epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. As a consequence, UniPR1331 reduced in vitro PC3 migration, invasion, and vasculomimicry capabilities. The antitumor activity of UniPR1331 was confirmed in vivo when administered alone or in combination with cytotoxic drugs in PC3-xenograft mice. Our results demonstrated that Eph antagonism is a promising strategy for inhibiting prostate cancer growth, especially in combination with cytotoxic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Festuccia
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Miriam Corrado
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Alessandra Rossetti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Giovanni Luca Gravina
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio (Coppito), 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.R.); (G.L.G.)
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Carmine Giorgio
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (M.C.); (R.C.); (A.L.); (M.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ferrari FR, Giorgio C, Zappia A, Ballabeni V, Bertoni S, Barocelli E, Scalvini L, Galvani F, Mor M, Lodola A, Tognolini M. Pharmacological characterization of second generation FXR agonists as effective EphA2 antagonists: A successful application of target hopping approach. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 209:115452. [PMID: 36792038 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
It is well demonstrated the key role of Eph-ephrin system, specifically of EphA2 receptor, in supporting tumor growth, invasion, metastasis and neovascularization. We previously identified FXR agonists as eligible antagonists of Eph-ephrin system. Herein we characterize new commercially available FXR (Farnesoid X Receptor) agonists as potential Eph ligands including Cilofexor, Nidufexor, Tropifexor, Turofexorate isopropyl and Vonafexor. Our exploration based on molecular modelling investigations and binding assays shows that Cilofexor binds specifically and reversibly to EphA2 receptor with a Ki value in the low micromolar range. Furthermore, Cilofexor interferes with the phosphorylation of EphA2 and the cell retraction and rounding in PC3 prostate cancer cells, both events depending on EphA2 activation. In conclusion, we can confirm that target hopping can be a successful approach to discover new moiety of protein-protein inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Ferrari
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Carmine Giorgio
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alfonso Zappia
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Vigilio Ballabeni
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Simona Bertoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Barocelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Scalvini
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Galvani
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen X, Yu D, Zhou H, Zhang X, Hu Y, Zhang R, Gao X, Lin M, Guo T, Zhang K. The role of EphA7 in different tumors. Clin Transl Oncol 2022; 24:1274-1289. [PMID: 35112312 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02783-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
Ephrin receptor A7 (EphA7) is a member of the Eph receptor family. It is widely involved in signal transduction between cells, regulates cell proliferation and differentiation, and participates in developing neural tubes and brain. In addition, EphA7 also has a dual role of tumor promoter and tumor suppressor. It can participate in cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis through various mechanisms, and affect tumor differentiation, staging and prognosis. EphA7 may be a potential diagnostic marker and tumor treatment target. This article reviews the effects of EphA7 on a variety of tumor biological processes and pathological characteristics, as well as specific effects and regulatory mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Dechen Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Haiyu Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China. .,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China.
| | - Xiaobo Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Yicun Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Ruihao Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Xidan Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Maoqiang Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Taowen Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Diseases, Lanzhou, 730030, China.,Xigu District People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ferlenghi F, Giorgio C, Incerti M, Guidetti L, Chiodelli P, Rusnati M, Tognolini M, Vacondio F, Mor M, Lodola A. Metabolic Soft Spot and Pharmacokinetics: Functionalization of C-3 Position of an Eph-Ephrin Antagonist Featuring a Bile Acid Core as an Effective Strategy to Obtain Oral Bioavailability in Mice. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 15:ph15010041. [PMID: 35056098 PMCID: PMC8779995 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UniPR129, an L-β-homotryptophan conjugate of the secondary bile acid lithocholic acid (LCA), acts as an effective protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitor of the Eph-ephrin system but suffers from a poor oral bioavailability in mice. To improve UniPR129 bioavailability, a metabolic soft spot, i.e., the 3α-hydroxyl group on the LCA steroidal ring, was functionalized to 3-hydroxyimine. In vitro metabolism of UniPR129 and 3-hydroxyimine derivative UniPR500 was compared in mouse liver subcellular fractions, and main metabolites were profiled by high resolution (HR-MS) and tandem (MS/MS) mass spectrometry. In mouse liver microsomes (MLM), UniPR129 was converted into several metabolites: M1 derived from the oxidation of the 3-hydroxy group to 3-oxo, M2-M7, mono-hydroxylated metabolites, M8-M10, di-hydroxylated metabolites, and M11, a mono-hydroxylated metabolite of M1. Phase II reactions were only minor routes of in vitro biotransformation. UniPR500 shared several metabolic pathways with parent UniPR129, but it showed higher stability in MLM, with a half-life (t1/2) of 60.4 min, if compared to a t1/2 = 16.8 min for UniPR129. When orally administered to mice at the same dose, UniPR500 showed an increased systemic exposure, maintaining an in vitro valuable pharmacological profile as an EphA2 receptor antagonist and an overall improvement in its physico-chemical profile (solubility, lipophilicity), if compared to UniPR129. The present work highlights an effective strategy for the pharmacokinetic optimization of aminoacid conjugates of bile acids as small molecule Eph-ephrin antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ferlenghi
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Carmine Giorgio
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Matteo Incerti
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Lorenzo Guidetti
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Paola Chiodelli
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco Rusnati
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Massimiliano Tognolini
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Federica Vacondio
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-0521-905076 (F.V.); +39-0521-905059 (M.M.)
| | - Marco Mor
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-0521-905076 (F.V.); +39-0521-905059 (M.M.)
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (F.F.); (C.G.); (M.I.); (L.G.); (M.T.); (A.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Arthur A, Gronthos S. Eph-Ephrin Signaling Mediates Cross-Talk Within the Bone Microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:598612. [PMID: 33634116 PMCID: PMC7902060 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.598612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal integrity is maintained through the tightly regulated bone remodeling process that occurs continuously throughout postnatal life to replace old bone and to repair skeletal damage. This is maintained primarily through complex interactions between bone resorbing osteoclasts and bone forming osteoblasts. Other elements within the bone microenvironment, including stromal, osteogenic, hematopoietic, endothelial and neural cells, also contribute to maintaining skeletal integrity. Disruption of the dynamic interactions between these diverse cellular systems can lead to poor bone health and an increased susceptibility to skeletal diseases including osteopenia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, osteomalacia, and major fractures. Recent reports have implicated a direct role for the Eph tyrosine kinase receptors and their ephrin ligands during bone development, homeostasis and skeletal repair. These membrane-bound molecules mediate contact-dependent signaling through both the Eph receptors, termed forward signaling, and through the ephrin ligands, referred to as reverse signaling. This review will focus on Eph/ ephrin cross-talk as mediators of hematopoietic and stromal cell communication, and how these interactions contribute to blood/ bone marrow function and skeletal integrity during normal steady state or pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Arthur
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stan Gronthos
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Holdhof D, Johann PD, Spohn M, Bockmayr M, Safaei S, Joshi P, Masliah-Planchon J, Ho B, Andrianteranagna M, Bourdeaut F, Huang A, Kool M, Upadhyaya SA, Bendel AE, Indenbirken D, Foulkes WD, Bush JW, Creytens D, Kordes U, Frühwald MC, Hasselblatt M, Schüller U. Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (ATRTs) with SMARCA4 mutation are molecularly distinct from SMARCB1-deficient cases. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:291-301. [PMID: 33331994 PMCID: PMC7847432 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-020-02250-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (ATRTs) are very aggressive childhood malignancies of the central nervous system. The underlying genetic cause are inactivating bi-allelic mutations in SMARCB1 or (rarely) in SMARCA4. ATRT-SMARCA4 have been associated with a higher frequency of germline mutations, younger age, and an inferior prognosis in comparison to SMARCB1 mutated cases. Based on their DNA methylation profiles and transcriptomics, SMARCB1 mutated ATRTs have been divided into three distinct molecular subgroups: ATRT-TYR, ATRT-SHH, and ATRT-MYC. These subgroups differ in terms of age at diagnosis, tumor location, type of SMARCB1 alterations, and overall survival. ATRT-SMARCA4 are, however, less well understood, and it remains unknown, whether they belong to one of the described ATRT subgroups. Here, we examined 14 ATRT-SMARCA4 by global DNA methylation analyses. We show that they form a separate group segregating from SMARCB1 mutated ATRTs and from other SMARCA4-deficient tumors like small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT) or SMARCA4 mutated extra-cranial malignant rhabdoid tumors. In contrast, medulloblastoma (MB) samples with heterozygous SMARCA4 mutations do not group separately, but with established MB subgroups. RNA sequencing of ATRT-SMARCA4 confirmed the clustering results based on DNA methylation profiling and displayed an absence of typical signature genes upregulated in SMARCB1 deleted ATRT. In summary, our results suggest that, in line with previous clinical observations, ATRT-SMARCA4 should be regarded as a distinct molecular subgroup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dörthe Holdhof
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, N63 (HPI), 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pascal D Johann
- Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Swabian Childrens' Cancer Center Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Spohn
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, N63 (HPI), 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bockmayr
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, N63 (HPI), 20251, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sepehr Safaei
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, N63 (HPI), 20251, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Piyush Joshi
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julien Masliah-Planchon
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, SIREDO Pediatric Oncology Center, Curie Institute, Paris, France
| | - Ben Ho
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mamy Andrianteranagna
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, SIREDO Pediatric Oncology Center, Curie Institute, Paris, France
- INSERM U900, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, MINES ParisTech, PSL Research University, Curie Institute, Paris, France
| | - Franck Bourdeaut
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, SIREDO Pediatric Oncology Center, Curie Institute, Paris, France
- Departments of Genetics and of Oncopediatry and Young Adults, Curie Institute, Paris, France
| | - Annie Huang
- INSERM U830, Laboratory of Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, SIREDO Pediatric Oncology Center, Curie Institute, Paris, France
| | - Marcel Kool
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Pediatric Neurooncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Research Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Santhosh A Upadhyaya
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Anne E Bendel
- Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Daniela Indenbirken
- Heinrich-Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - William D Foulkes
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jonathan W Bush
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, British Columbia Children's Hospital and Women's Hospital and Health Center, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David Creytens
- Department of Pathology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Uwe Kordes
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael C Frühwald
- Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Swabian Childrens' Cancer Center Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Martin Hasselblatt
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schüller
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Research Institute Children's Cancer Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, N63 (HPI), 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|