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Hernandez-Lara MA, Richard J, Deshpande DA. Diacylglycerol kinase is a keystone regulator of signaling relevant to the pathophysiology of asthma. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 327:L3-L18. [PMID: 38742284 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00091.2024] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and immunoreceptors converge at the activation of phospholipase C (PLC) for the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) into inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG). This is a point for second-messenger bifurcation where DAG via protein kinase C (PKC) and IP3 via calcium activate distinct protein targets and regulate cellular functions. IP3 signaling is regulated by multiple calcium influx and efflux proteins involved in calcium homeostasis. A family of lipid kinases belonging to DAG kinases (DGKs) converts DAG to phosphatidic acid (PA), negatively regulating DAG signaling and pathophysiological functions. PA, through a series of biochemical reactions, is recycled to produce new molecules of PIP2. Therefore, DGKs act as a central switch in terminating DAG signaling and resynthesis of membrane phospholipids precursor. Interestingly, calcium and PKC regulate the activation of α and ζ isoforms of DGK that are predominantly expressed in airway and immune cells. Thus, DGK forms a feedback and feedforward control point and plays a crucial role in fine-tuning phospholipid stoichiometry, signaling, and functions. In this review, we discuss the previously underappreciated complex and intriguing DAG/DGK-driven mechanisms in regulating cellular functions associated with asthma, such as contraction and proliferation of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells and inflammatory activation of immune cells. We highlight the benefits of manipulating DGK activity in mitigating salient features of asthma pathophysiology and shed light on DGK as a molecule of interest for heterogeneous diseases such as asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Hernandez-Lara
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Jane & Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Joshua Richard
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Jane & Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Deepak A Deshpande
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Jane & Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Hu X, Li E, Zhou Y, You Q, Jiang Z. Casitas b cell lymphoma‑B (Cbl-b): A new therapeutic avenue for small-molecule immunotherapy. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 102:117677. [PMID: 38457911 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117677] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the area of cancer treatment. Although most immunotherapies now are antibodies targeting membrane checkpoint molecules, there is an increasing demand for small-molecule drugs that address intracellular pathways. The E3 ubiquitin ligase Casitas B cell lymphoma‑b (Cbl-b) has been regarded as a promising intracellular immunotherapy target. Cbl-b regulates the downstream proteins of multiple membrane receptors and co-receptors, restricting the activation of the innate and adaptive immune system. Recently, Cbl-b inhibitors have been reported with promising effects on immune surveillance activation and anti-tumor efficacy. Several molecules have entered phase Ⅰ clinical trials. In this review, the biological rationale of Cbl-b as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy and the latest research progress of Cbl-b are summarized, with special emphasis on the allosteric small-molecule inhibitors of Cbl-b.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Erdong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yangguo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qidong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Zhengyu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Chupak L, Wichroski M, Zheng X, Ding M, Martin S, Allard C, Shi J, Gentles R, Meanwell NA, Fang J, Tenney D, Tokarski J, Cao C, Wee S. Discovery of Potent, Dual-Inhibitors of Diacylglycerol Kinases Alpha and Zeta Guided by Phenotypic Optimization. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:929-935. [PMID: 37465293 PMCID: PMC10351048 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00063] [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: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
We describe a phenotypic screening and optimization strategy to discover compounds that block intracellular checkpoint signaling in T-cells. We identified dual DGKα and ζ inhibitors notwithstanding the modest similarity between α and ζ relative to other DGK isoforms. Optimized compounds produced cytokine release and T-cell proliferation consistent with DGK inhibition and potentiated an immune response in human and mouse T-cells. Additionally, lead inhibitor BMS-502 demonstrated dose-dependent immune stimulation in the mouse OT-1 model, setting the stage for a drug discovery program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Chupak
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Michael Wichroski
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Xiaofan Zheng
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Min Ding
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Scott Martin
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Christopher Allard
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Jianliang Shi
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - Robert Gentles
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, 100 Binney Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Meanwell
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - Jie Fang
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - Daniel Tenney
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - John Tokarski
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - Carolyn Cao
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
| | - Susan Wee
- Bristol
Myers Squibb Research and Early Development, PO Box 4000, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000, United
States
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4
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Gravina T, Boggio CMT, Gorla E, Racca L, Polidoro S, Centonze S, Ferrante D, Lunghi M, Graziani A, Corà D, Baldanzi G. Role of Diacylglycerol Kinases in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1877. [PMID: 37509516 PMCID: PMC10377028 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071877] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) play dual roles in cell transformation and immunosurveillance. According to cancer expression databases, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) exhibits significant overexpression of multiple DGK isoforms, including DGKA, DGKD and DGKG, without a precise correlation with specific AML subtypes. In the TGCA database, high DGKA expression negatively correlates with survival, while high DGKG expression is associated with a more favorable prognosis. DGKA and DGKG also feature different patterns of co-expressed genes. Conversely, the BeatAML and TARGET databases show that high DGKH expression is correlated with shorter survival. To assess the suitability of DGKs as therapeutic targets, we treated HL-60 and HEL cells with DGK inhibitors and compared cell growth and survival with those of untransformed lymphocytes. We observed a specific sensitivity to R59022 and R59949, two poorly selective inhibitors, which promoted cytotoxicity and cell accumulation in the S phase in both cell lines. Conversely, the DGKA-specific inhibitors CU-3 and AMB639752 showed poor efficacy. These findings underscore the pivotal and isoform-specific involvement of DGKs in AML, offering a promising pathway for the identification of potential therapeutic targets. Notably, the DGKA and DGKH isoforms emerge as relevant players in AML pathogenesis, albeit DGKA inhibition alone seems insufficient to impair AML cell viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Gravina
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Teresa Boggio
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elisa Gorla
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luisa Racca
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Silvia Polidoro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Sara Centonze
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daniela Ferrante
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Monia Lunghi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28110 Novara, Italy
| | - Andrea Graziani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Davide Corà
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Baldanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Offringa R, Kötzner L, Huck B, Urbahns K. The expanding role for small molecules in immuno-oncology. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:821-840. [PMID: 35982333 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00538-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The advent of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) using antibodies against PD1 and its ligand PDL1 has prompted substantial efforts to develop complementary drugs. Although many of these are antibodies directed against additional checkpoint proteins, there is an increasing interest in small-molecule immuno-oncology drugs that address intracellular pathways, some of which have recently entered clinical trials. In parallel, small molecules that target pro-tumorigenic pathways in cancer cells and the tumour microenvironment have been found to have immunostimulatory effects that synergize with the action of ICI antibodies, leading to the approval of an increasing number of regimens that combine such drugs. Combinations with small molecules targeting cancer metabolism, cytokine/chemokine and innate immune pathways, and T cell checkpoints are now under investigation. This Review discusses the recent milestones and hurdles encountered in this area of drug development, as well as our views on the best path forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rienk Offringa
- Department of Molecular Oncology of Gastrointestinal Tumors, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany. .,DKFZ-Bayer Immunotherapeutics Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Lisa Kötzner
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Healthcare R&D, Discovery and Development Technologies, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Bayard Huck
- EMD Serono, Healthcare R&D, Discovery and Development Technologies, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Klaus Urbahns
- EMD Serono, Healthcare R&D, Discovery and Development Technologies, Billerica, MA, USA.
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6
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Immune Checkpoint Receptors Signaling in T Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073529. [PMID: 35408889 PMCID: PMC8999077 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The characterization of the receptors negatively modulating lymphocyte function is rapidly advancing, driven by success in tumor immunotherapy. As a result, the number of immune checkpoint receptors characterized from a functional perspective and targeted by innovative drugs continues to expand. This review focuses on the less explored area of the signaling mechanisms of these receptors, of those expressed in T cells. Studies conducted mainly on PD-1, CTLA-4, and BTLA have evidenced that the extracellular parts of some of the receptors act as decoy receptors for activating ligands, but in all instances, the tyrosine phosphorylation of their cytoplasmatic tail drives a crucial inhibitory signal. This negative signal is mediated by a few key signal transducers, such as tyrosine phosphatase, inositol phosphatase, and diacylglycerol kinase, which allows them to counteract TCR-mediated activation. The characterization of these signaling pathways is of great interest in the development of therapies for counteracting tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte exhaustion/anergy independently from the receptors involved.
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Granade ME, Manigat LC, Lemke MC, Purow BW, Harris TE. Identification of ritanserin analogs that display DGK isoform specificity. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 197:114908. [PMID: 34999054 PMCID: PMC8858877 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114908] [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: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) family of lipid enzymes catalyzes the conversion of diacylglycerol (DAG) to phosphatidic acid (PA). Both DAG and PA are lipid signaling molecules that are of notable importance in regulating cell processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. There are ten mammalian DGK enzymes that appear to have distinct biological functions. DGKα has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in numerous cancers including glioblastoma (GBM) and melanoma as treatment with small molecule DGKα inhibitors results in reduced tumor sizes and prolonged survival. Importantly, DGKα has also been identified as an immune checkpoint due to its promotion of T cell anergy, and its inhibition has been shown to improve T cell activation. There are few small molecule DGKα inhibitors currently available, and the application of existing compounds to clinical settings is hindered by species-dependent variability in potency, as well as concerns regarding isotype specificity particularly amongst other type I DGKs. In order to resolve these issues, we have screened a library of compounds structurally analogous to the DGKα inhibitor, ritanserin, in an effort to identify more potent and specific alternatives. We identified two compounds that more potently and selectively inhibit DGKα, one of which (JNJ-3790339) demonstrates similar cytotoxicity in GBM and melanoma cells as ritanserin. Consistent with its inhibitor profile towards DGKα, JNJ-3790339 also demonstrated improved activation of T cells compared with ritanserin. Together our data support efforts to identify DGK isoform-selective inhibitors as a mechanism to produce pharmacologically relevant cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell E Granade
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Laryssa C Manigat
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Michael C Lemke
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Benjamin W Purow
- University of Virginia, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuro-Oncology, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
| | - Thurl E Harris
- University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
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Sakane F, Hoshino F, Ebina M, Sakai H, Takahashi D. The Roles of Diacylglycerol Kinase α in Cancer Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205190. [PMID: 34680338 PMCID: PMC8534027 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Diacylglycerol (DG) kinase (DGK) phosphorylates DG to generate phosphatidic acid (PA). DGKα is highly expressed in several refractory cancer cells, including melanoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and glioblastoma cells, attenuates apoptosis, and promotes proliferation. In cancer cells, PA produced by DGKα plays an important role in proliferation/antiapoptosis. In addition to cancer cells, DGKα is highly abundant in T cells and induces a nonresponsive state (anergy), representing the main mechanism by which advanced cancers avoid immune action. In T cells, DGKα induces anergy through DG consumption. Therefore, a DGKα-specific inhibitor is expected to be a dual effective anticancer treatment that inhibits cancer cell proliferation and simultaneously activates T cell function. Moreover, the inhibition of DGKα synergistically enhances the anticancer effects of programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand 1 blockade. Taken together, DGKα inhibition provides a promising new treatment strategy for refractory cancers. Abstract Diacylglycerol (DG) kinase (DGK) phosphorylates DG to generate phosphatidic acid (PA). The α isozyme is activated by Ca2+ through its EF-hand motifs and tyrosine phosphorylation. DGKα is highly expressed in several refractory cancer cells including melanoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and glioblastoma cells. In melanoma cells, DGKα is an antiapoptotic factor that activates nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) through the atypical protein kinase C (PKC) ζ-mediated phosphorylation of NF-κB. DGKα acts as an enhancer of proliferative activity through the Raf–MEK–ERK pathway and consequently exacerbates hepatocellular carcinoma progression. In glioblastoma and melanoma cells, DGKα attenuates apoptosis by enhancing the phosphodiesterase (PDE)-4A1–mammalian target of the rapamycin pathway. As PA activates PKCζ, Raf, and PDE, it is likely that PA generated by DGKα plays an important role in the proliferation/antiapoptosis of cancer cells. In addition to cancer cells, DGKα is highly abundant in T cells and induces a nonresponsive state (anergy), which represents the main mechanism by which advanced cancers escape immune action. In T cells, DGKα attenuates the activity of Ras-guanyl nucleotide-releasing protein, which is activated by DG and avoids anergy through DG consumption. Therefore, a DGKα-specific inhibitor is expected to be a dual effective anticancer treatment that inhibits cancer cell proliferation and simultaneously enhances T cell functions. Moreover, the inhibition of DGKα synergistically enhances the anticancer effects of programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand 1 blockade. Taken together, DGKα inhibition provides a promising new treatment strategy for refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumio Sakane
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (F.H.); (M.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-43-290-3695
| | - Fumi Hoshino
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (F.H.); (M.E.)
| | - Masayuki Ebina
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (F.H.); (M.E.)
| | - Hiromichi Sakai
- Department of Biosignaling and Radioisotope Experiment, Interdisciplinary Center for Science Research, Organization for Research and Academic Information, Shimane University, Izumo 693-8501, Japan;
| | - Daisuke Takahashi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Care and Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan;
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Diacylglycerol Kinase alpha in X Linked Lymphoproliferative Disease Type 1. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115816. [PMID: 34072296 PMCID: PMC8198409 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Diacylglycerol kinases are intracellular enzymes that control the balance between the secondary messengers diacylglycerol and phosphatidic acid. DGKα and DGKζ are the prominent isoforms that restrain the intensity of T cell receptor signalling by metabolizing PLCγ generated diacylglycerol. Thus, their activity must be tightly controlled to grant cellular homeostasis and refine immune responses. DGKα is specifically inhibited by strong T cell activating signals to allow for full diacylglycerol signalling which mediates T cell response. In X-linked lymphoproliferative disease 1, deficiency of the adaptor protein SAP results in altered T cell receptor signalling, due in part to persistent DGKα activity. This activity constrains diacylglycerol levels, attenuating downstream pathways such as PKCθ and Ras/MAPK and decreasing T cell restimulation induced cell death. This is a form of apoptosis triggered by prolonged T cell activation that is indeed defective in CD8+ cells of X-linked lymphoproliferative disease type 1 patients. Accordingly, inhibition or downregulation of DGKα activity restores in vitro a correct diacylglycerol dependent signal transduction, cytokines production and restimulation induced apoptosis. In animal disease models, DGKα inhibitors limit CD8+ expansion and immune-mediated tissue damage, suggesting the possibility of using inhibitors of diacylglycerol kinase as a new therapeutic approach.
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Potential role of diacylglycerol kinases in immune-mediated diseases. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 134:1637-1658. [PMID: 32608491 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism promoting exacerbated immune responses in allergy and autoimmunity as well as those blunting the immune control of cancer cells are of primary interest in medicine. Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) are key modulators of signal transduction, which blunt diacylglycerol (DAG) signals and produce phosphatidic acid (PA). By modulating lipid second messengers, DGK modulate the activity of downstream signaling proteins, vesicle trafficking and membrane shape. The biological role of the DGK α and ζ isoforms in immune cells differentiation and effector function was subjected to in deep investigations. DGK α and ζ resulted in negatively regulating synergistic way basal and receptor induced DAG signals in T cells as well as leukocytes. In this way, they contributed to keep under control the immune response but also downmodulate immune response against tumors. Alteration in DGKα activity is also implicated in the pathogenesis of genetic perturbations of the immune function such as the X-linked lymphoproliferative disease 1 and localized juvenile periodontitis. These findings suggested a participation of DGK to the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying several immune-mediated diseases and prompted several researches aiming to target DGK with pharmacologic and molecular strategies. Those findings are discussed inhere together with experimental applications in tumors as well as in other immune-mediated diseases such as asthma.
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11
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Takao S, Akiyama R, Sakane F. Combined inhibition/silencing of diacylglycerol kinase α and ζ simultaneously and synergistically enhances interleukin-2 production in T cells and induces cell death of melanoma cells. J Cell Biochem 2021; 122:494-506. [PMID: 33399248 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The α-isozyme of diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) enhances cancer cell proliferation and, conversely, it promotes the nonresponsive immune state known as T-cell anergy. Moreover, a DGKα-selective inhibitor, CU-3, induced cell death in cancer-derived cells and simultaneously enhanced T-cell interleukin-2 production. In addition to DGKα, DGKζ is also known to induce T-cell anergy. In the present study, we examined whether combined inhibition/silencing of DGKα and DGKζ synergistically enhanced T-cell activity. Combined treatment with CU-3 or DGKα-small interfering RNA (siRNA) and DGKζ-siRNA more potently enhanced T-cell receptor-crosslink-dependent interleukin-2 production in Jurkat T cells than treatment with either alone. Intriguingly, in addition to activating T cells, dual inhibition/silencing of DGKα and DGKζ synergistically reduced viability and increased caspase 3/7 activity in AKI melanoma cells. Taken together, these results indicate that combined inhibition/silencing of DGKα and DGKζ simultaneously and synergistically enhances interleukin-2 production in T cells and induces cell death in melanoma. Therefore, dual inhibition/silencing of these DGK isozymes represents an ideal therapy that potently attenuates cancer cell proliferation and simultaneously enhances immune responses that impact anticancer immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saki Takao
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Rino Akiyama
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Fumio Sakane
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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12
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Babushkina AA, Egorov DM, Kaskevich KI. Synthesis and Functionalization of 5-Alkyl-6-methyl-2-thiouracils. RUSS J GEN CHEM+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1070363220110110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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13
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Varalda M, Antona A, Bettio V, Roy K, Vachamaram A, Yellenki V, Massarotti A, Baldanzi G, Capello D. Psychotropic Drugs Show Anticancer Activity by Disrupting Mitochondrial and Lysosomal Function. Front Oncol 2020; 10:562196. [PMID: 33194631 PMCID: PMC7604408 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.562196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Drug repositioning is a promising strategy for discovering new therapeutic strategies for cancer therapy. We investigated psychotropic drugs for their antitumor activity because of several epidemiological studies reporting lower cancer incidence in individuals receiving long term drug treatment. Experimental Approach: We investigated 27 psychotropic drugs for their cytotoxic activity in colorectal carcinoma, glioblastoma and breast cancer cell lines. Consistent with the cationic amphiphilic structure of the most cytotoxic compounds, we investigated their effect on mitochondrial and lysosomal compartments. Results: Penfluridol, ebastine, pimozide and fluoxetine, fluspirilene and nefazodone showed significant cytotoxicity, in the low micromolar range, in all cell lines tested. In MCF7 cells these drugs caused mitochondrial membrane depolarization, increased the acidic vesicular compartments and induced phospholipidosis. Both penfluridol and spiperone induced AMPK activation and autophagy. Neither caspase nor autophagy inhibitors rescued cells from death induced by ebastine, fluoxetine, fluspirilene and nefazodone. Treatment with 3-methyladenine partially rescued cell death induced by pimozide and spiperone, whereas enhanced the cytotoxic activity of penfluridol. Conversely, inhibition of lysosomal cathepsins significantly reduced cell death induced by ebastin, penfluridol, pimozide, spiperone and mildly in fluoxetine treated cells. Lastly, Spiperone cytotoxicity was restricted to colorectal cancer and breast cancer and caused apoptotic cell death in MCF7 cells. Conclusions: The cytotoxicity of psychotropic drugs with cationic amphiphilic structures relied on simultaneous mitochondrial and lysosomal disruption and induction of cell death that not necessarily requires apoptosis. Since dual targeting of lysosomes and mitochondria constitutes a new promising therapeutic approach for cancer, particularly those in which the apoptotic machinery is defective, these data further support their clinical development for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Varalda
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,UPO Biobank, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Annamaria Antona
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Valentina Bettio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,UPO Biobank, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Konkonika Roy
- Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Ajay Vachamaram
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Vaibhav Yellenki
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Alberto Massarotti
- Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Baldanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,Center for Translational Research on Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Daniela Capello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre of Excellence in Aging Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,UPO Biobank, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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14
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New Era of Diacylglycerol Kinase, Phosphatidic Acid and Phosphatidic Acid-Binding Protein. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186794. [PMID: 32947951 PMCID: PMC7555651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) phosphorylates diacylglycerol (DG) to generate phosphatidic acid (PA). Mammalian DGK consists of ten isozymes (α–κ) and governs a wide range of physiological and pathological events, including immune responses, neuronal networking, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, fragile X syndrome, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. DG and PA comprise diverse molecular species that have different acyl chains at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions. Because the DGK activity is essential for phosphatidylinositol turnover, which exclusively produces 1-stearoyl-2-arachidonoyl-DG, it has been generally thought that all DGK isozymes utilize the DG species derived from the turnover. However, it was recently revealed that DGK isozymes, except for DGKε, phosphorylate diverse DG species, which are not derived from phosphatidylinositol turnover. In addition, various PA-binding proteins (PABPs), which have different selectivities for PA species, were recently found. These results suggest that DGK–PA–PABP axes can potentially construct a large and complex signaling network and play physiologically and pathologically important roles in addition to DGK-dependent attenuation of DG–DG-binding protein axes. For example, 1-stearoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-PA produced by DGKδ interacts with and activates Praja-1, the E3 ubiquitin ligase acting on the serotonin transporter, which is a target of drugs for obsessive-compulsive and major depressive disorders, in the brain. This article reviews recent research progress on PA species produced by DGK isozymes, the selective binding of PABPs to PA species and a phosphatidylinositol turnover-independent DG supply pathway.
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15
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Kambayashi T, Deshpande DA. The role of diacylglycerol kinases in allergic airway disease. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2020; 51:50-58. [PMID: 32836013 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is an obstructive inflammatory airway disease. Airway obstruction is mediated by hyperresponsive airway smooth muscle cell contraction, which is induced and compounded by inflammation caused by T lymphocytes. One important signal transduction pathway that is involved in the activation of these cell types involves the generation of a lipid second messenger known as diacylglycerol (DAG). DAG levels are controlled in cells by a negative regulator known as DAG kinase (DGK). In this review, we discuss how the DAG signaling pathway attenuates the pathological function of immune cells and airway smooth muscle cells in allergic airway disease and asthma. Furthermore, we discuss how the enhancement of the DAG signaling pathway through the inhibition of DGK may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Kambayashi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Deepak A Deshpande
- Center for Translational Medicine, Jane and Leonard Korman Lung Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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16
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Subcellular Localization Relevance and Cancer-Associated Mechanisms of Diacylglycerol Kinases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155297. [PMID: 32722576 PMCID: PMC7432101 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of reports suggests a significant involvement of the phosphoinositide (PI) cycle in cancer development and progression. Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) are very active in the PI cycle. They are a family of ten members that convert diacylglycerol (DAG) into phosphatidic acid (PA), two-second messengers with versatile cellular functions. Notably, some DGK isoforms, such as DGKα, have been reported to possess promising therapeutic potential in cancer therapy. However, further studies are needed in order to better comprehend their involvement in cancer. In this review, we highlight that DGKs are an essential component of the PI cycle that localize within several subcellular compartments, including the nucleus and plasma membrane, together with their PI substrates and that they are involved in mediating major cancer cell mechanisms such as growth and metastasis. DGKs control cancer cell survival, proliferation, and angiogenesis by regulating Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK pathways. In addition, some DGKs control cancer cell migration by regulating the activities of the Rho GTPases Rac1 and RhoA.
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17
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Liu CS, Schmezer P, Popanda O. Diacylglycerol Kinase Alpha in Radiation-Induced Fibrosis: Potential as a Predictive Marker or Therapeutic Target. Front Oncol 2020; 10:737. [PMID: 32477950 PMCID: PMC7235333 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an efficient tool in cancer treatment, but it brings along the risk of side effects such as fibrosis in the irradiated healthy tissue thus limiting tumor control and impairing quality of life of cancer survivors. Knowledge on radiation-related fibrosis risk and therapeutic options is still limited and requires further research. Recent studies demonstrated that epigenetic regulation of diacylglycerol kinase alpha (DGKA) is associated with radiation-induced fibrosis. However, the specific mechanisms are still unknown. In this review, we scrutinized the role of DGKA in the radiation response and in further cellular functions to show the potential of DGKA as a predictive marker or a novel target in fibrosis treatment. DGKA was reported to participate in immune response, lipid signaling, exosome production, and migration as well as cell proliferation, all processes which are suggested to be critical steps in fibrogenesis. Most of these functions are based on the conversion of diacylglycerol (DAG) to phosphatidic acid (PA) at plasma membranes, but DGKA might have also other, yet not well-known functions in the nucleus. Current evidence summarized here underlines that DGKA activation may play a central role in fibrosis formation post-irradiation and shows a potential of direct DGKA inhibitors or epigenetic modulators to attenuate pro-fibrotic reactions, thus providing novel therapeutic choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Shan Liu
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schmezer
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Odilia Popanda
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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