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Ruengsatra T, Soponpong J, Nalinratana N, Jirapongwattana N, Dunkoksung W, Rattanangkool E, Deesiri S, Srisa J, Songthammanuphap S, Udomnilobol U, Prueksaritanont T. Design, synthesis, and optimization of novel PD-L1 inhibitors and the identification of a highly potent and orally bioavailable PD-L1 inhibitor. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 277:116730. [PMID: 39111015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116730] [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: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
In this paper we report the discovery of structurally novel and highly potent programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors targeting surface and intracellular PD-L1. A ring fusion design utilizing dimethoxyphenyl indazole derivatives was used, followed by structural extension, which further improved potency by inducing the formation of additional symmetrical interactions within the PD-L1 binding site, leading to the discovery of novel and highly active tetra-aryl-scaffold inhibitors. Key optimizations involved polar tail chain modifications that improve potency and minimize cell cytotoxicity. In addition, druggability issues that exist outside the rule-of-five chemical space were addressed. CB31, a representative compound, was found to exhibit outstanding activity in blocking programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 interactions (IC50 = 0.2 nM) and enhancing T-cell functions, with minimal cell cytotoxicity. CB31 also displayed favorable oral pharmacokinetic properties, consistent with its high passive permeability and insusceptibility to efflux transporters, as well as its high metabolic stability. Additionally, CB31 demonstrated mechanistically differentiated features from monoclonal antibodies by inducing PD-L1 internalization, intracellular retention of PD-L1 with altered glycosylation pattern, and PD-L1 degradation. It also demonstrated greater effects on tumor size reduction and tumor cell killing, with enhanced T-cell infiltration, in a 3D tumor spheroid model. Overall, results show that CB31 is a promising small-molecule PD-L1 inhibitor that can inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 interactions and promote PD-L1 degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanachote Ruengsatra
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jakapun Soponpong
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nonthaneth Nalinratana
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Niphat Jirapongwattana
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wilasinee Dunkoksung
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Eakkaphon Rattanangkool
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sirikan Deesiri
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jakkrit Srisa
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Songkiat Songthammanuphap
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Udomsak Udomnilobol
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thomayant Prueksaritanont
- Chulalongkorn University Drug Discovery and Drug Development Research Center (Chula4DR), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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2
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Hu L, Sun C, Yuan K, Yang P. Expression, regulation, and function of PD-L1 on non-tumor cells in the tumor microenvironment. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104181. [PMID: 39278561 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Antiprogrammed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) therapy is a leading immunotherapy, but only some patients with solid cancers benefit. Overwhelming evidence has revealed that PD-L1 is expressed on various immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including macrophages, dendritic cells, and regulatory T cells, modulating tumor immunity and influencing tumor progression. PD-L1 can also be located on tumor cell membranes as well as in exosomes and cytoplasm. Accordingly, the dynamic expression and various forms of PD-L1 might explain the therapy's limited efficacy and resistance. Herein a systematic summary of the expression of PD-L1 on different immune cells and their regulatory mechanisms is provided to offer a solid foundation for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingrong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chengliang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Peng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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3
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Ding L, Guo H, Zhang J, Zheng M, Zhang W, Wang L, Du Q, Zhou C, Xu Y, Wu H, He Q, Yang B. Zosuquidar Promotes Antitumor Immunity by Inducing Autophagic Degradation of PD-L1. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400340. [PMID: 39229920 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
The intracellular distribution and transportation process are essential for maintaining PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) expression, and intervening in this cellular process may provide promising therapeutic strategies. Here, through a cell-based high content screening, it is found that the ABCB1 (ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1) modulator zosuquidar dramatically suppresses PD-L1 expression by triggering its autophagic degradation. Mechanistically, ABCB1 interacts with PD-L1 and impairs COP II-mediated PD-L1 transport from ER (endoplasmic reticulum) to Golgi apparatus. The treatment of zosuquidar enhances ABCB1-PD-L1 interaction and leads the ER retention of PD-L1, which is subsequently degraded in the SQSTM1-dependent selective autophagy pathway. In CT26 mouse model and a humanized xenograft mouse model, zosuquidar significantly suppresses tumor growth and accompanies by increased infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. In summary, this study indicates that ABCB1 serves as a negative regulator of PD-L1, and zosuquidar may act as a potential immunotherapy agent by triggering PD-L1 degradation in the early secretory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ding
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
| | - Hongjie Guo
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Mingming Zheng
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Longsheng Wang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qianqian Du
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanjun Xu
- The Cancer Hospital of University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Honghai Wu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qiaojun He
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- The Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- The Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, China
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4
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To VT, Phan TL, Doan BVN, Nguyen PCV, Le QHN, Nguyen HH, Trinh TC, Truong TN. Innovative virtual screening of PD-L1 inhibitors: the synergy of molecular similarity, neural networks and GNINA docking. Future Med Chem 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39230480 DOI: 10.1080/17568919.2024.2389773] [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: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims: Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-L1 are crucial in cancer research for preventing cancer cells from evading the immune system.Materials & methods: This study developed a screening model combining ANN, molecular similarity, and GNINA 1.0 docking to target PD-L1. A database of 2044 substances was compiled from patents.Results: For molecular similarity, the AVALON emerged as the most effective fingerprint, demonstrating an AUC-ROC of 0.963. The ANN model outperformed the Random Forest and Support Vector Classifier in cross-validation and external validation, achieving an average precision of 0.851 and an F1 score of 0.790. GNINA 1.0 was validated through redocking and retrospective control, achieving an AUC of 0.975.Conclusions: From 15235 DrugBank compounds, 22 candidates were shortlisted. Among which (3S)-1-(4-acetylphenyl)-5-oxopyrrolidine-3-carboxylic acid emerged as the most promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Thinh To
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Tieu-Long Phan
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science, and Interdisciplinary Center for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstraße 16-18, 04107, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| | - Bao-Vy Ngoc Doan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Phuoc-Chung Van Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Quang-Huy Nguyen Le
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Hoang-Huy Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - The-Chuong Trinh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Grenoble Alpes University, La Tronche, 38700, France
| | - Tuyen Ngoc Truong
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
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5
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Cao Y, Yi W, Zhu Q. Glycosylation in the tumor immune response: the bitter side of sweetness. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:1184-1198. [PMID: 38946426 PMCID: PMC11399423 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024107] [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] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycosylation is the most structurally diverse form of post-translational modification (PTM) of proteins that affects a myriad of cellular processes. As a pivotal regulator of protein homeostasis, glycosylation notably impacts the function of proteins, spanning from protein localization and stability to protein-protein interactions. Aberrant glycosylation is a hallmark of cancer, and extensive studies have revealed the multifaceted roles of glycosylation in tumor growth, migration, invasion and immune escape Over the past decade, glycosylation has emerged as an immune regulator in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we summarize the intricate interplay between glycosylation and the immune system documented in recent literature, which orchestrates the regulation of the tumor immune response through endogenous lectins, immune checkpoints and the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the TME. In addition, we discuss the latest progress in glycan-based cancer immunotherapy. This review provides a basic understanding of glycosylation in the tumor immune response and a theoretical framework for tumor immunotherapy.
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Konstantinidou M, Arkin MR. Molecular glues for protein-protein interactions: Progressing toward a new dream. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1064-1088. [PMID: 38701786 PMCID: PMC11193649 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.04.002] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
The modulation of protein-protein interactions with small molecules is one of the most rapidly developing areas in drug discovery. In this review, we discuss advances over the past decade (2014-2023) focusing on molecular glues (MGs)-monovalent small molecules that induce proximity, either by stabilizing native interactions or by inducing neomorphic interactions. We include both serendipitous and rational discoveries and describe the different approaches that were used to identify them. We classify the compounds in three main categories: degradative MGs, non-degradative MGs or PPI stabilizers, and MGs that induce self-association. Diverse, illustrative examples with structural data are described in detail, emphasizing the elements of molecular recognition and cooperative binding at the interface that are fundamental for a MG mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markella Konstantinidou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Michelle R Arkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Small Molecule Discovery Center (SMDC), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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7
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Cai M, Xu M, Yu D, Wang Q, Liu S. Posttranslational regulatory mechanism of PD-L1 in cancers and associated opportunities for novel small-molecule therapeutics. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024. [PMID: 38826132 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024085] [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: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the tremendous progress in cancer research over the past few decades, effective therapeutic strategies are still urgently needed. Accumulating evidence suggests that immune checkpoints are the cause of tumor immune escape. PD-1/PD-L1 are among them. Posttranslational modification is the most critical step for protein function, and the regulation of PD-L1 by small molecules through posttranslational modification is highly valuable. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of tumor cell immune escape and several posttranslational modifications associated with PD-L1 and describe examples in which small molecules can regulate PD-L1 through posttranslational modifications. Herein, we propose that the use of small molecule compounds that act by inhibiting PD-L1 through posttranslational modifications is a promising therapeutic approach with the potential to improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients.
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8
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Wang Z, Yuan L, Liao X, Guo X, Chen J. Reducing PD-L1 Expression by Degraders and Downregulators as a Novel Strategy to Target the PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6027-6043. [PMID: 38598179 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Targeting the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway has evolved into one of the most promising strategies for tumor immunotherapy. Thus far, multiple monoclonal antibody drugs have been approved for treating a variety of tumors, while the development of small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has lagged far behind, with only a few small-molecule inhibitors entering clinical trials. In addition to antibody drugs and small-molecule inhibitors, reducing the expression levels of PD-L1 has attracted extensive research interest as another promising strategy to target the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Herein, we analyze the structures and mechanisms of molecules that reduce PD-L1 expression and classify them as degraders and downregulators according to whether they directly bind to PD-L1. Moreover, we discuss the potential prospects for developing PD-L1-targeting drugs based on these molecules. It is hoped that this perspective will provide profound insights into the discovery of potent antitumor immunity drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaotong Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xia Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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9
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Guo J, Yu F, Zhang K, Jiang S, Zhang X, Wang T. Beyond inhibition against the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway: development of PD-L1 inhibitors targeting internalization and degradation of PD-L1. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1096-1108. [PMID: 38665824 PMCID: PMC11042118 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00636k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells hijack the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) pathway to suppress the immune response through overexpressing PD-L1 to interact with PD-1 of T cells. With in-depth ongoing research, tumor-intrinsic PD-L1 is found to play important roles in tumor progression without interaction with PD-1 expressed on T cells, which provides an additional important target and therapeutic approach for development of PD-L1 inhibitors. Existing monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs against the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway generally behave by conformationally blocking the interactions of PD-1 with PD-L1 on the cell surface. Beyond general inhibition of the protein-protein interaction (PPI), inhibitors targeting PD-L1 currently focus on the functional inhibition of the interaction between PD-1/PD-L1 and degradation of tumor-intrinsic PD-L1. This perspective will clarify the evolution of PD-L1 inhibitors and provide insights into the current development of PD-L1 inhibitors, especially targeting internalization and degradation of PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiazheng Guo
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
| | - Fengyi Yu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
| | - Tianyu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 210009 China
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10
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Javed SA, Najmi A, Ahsan W, Zoghebi K. Targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 immune checkpoint inhibition for cancer immunotherapy: success and challenges. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383456. [PMID: 38660299 PMCID: PMC11039846 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The programmed death-1 receptor (PD-1) acts as a T-cell brake, and its interaction with ligand-1 (PD-L-1) interferes with signal transduction of the T-cell receptor. This leads to suppression of T-cell survival, proliferation, and activity in the tumor microenvironment resulting in compromised anticancer immunity. PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction blockade shown remarkable clinical success in various cancer immunotherapies. To date, most PD-1/PD-L-1 blockers approved for clinical use are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs); however, their therapeutic use are limited owing to poor clinical responses in a proportion of patients. mAbs also displayed low tumor penetration, steep production costs, and incidences of immune-related side effects. This strongly indicates the importance of developing novel inhibitors as cancer immunotherapeutic agents. Recently, advancements in the small molecule-based inhibitors (SMIs) that directly block the PD-1/PD-L-1 axis gained attention from the scientific community involved in cancer research. SMIs demonstrated certain advantages over mAbs, including longer half-lives, low cost, greater cell penetration, and possibility of oral administration. Currently, several SMIs are in development pipeline as potential therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. To develop new SMIs, a wide range of structural scaffolds have been explored with excellent outcomes; biphenyl-based scaffolds are most studied. In this review, we analyzed the development of mAbs and SMIs targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 axis for cancer treatment. Altogether, the present review delves into the problems related to mAbs use and a detailed discussion on the development and current status of SMIs. This article may provide a comprehensive guide to medicinal chemists regarding the potential structural scaffolds required for PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Zhang F, Jiang R, Sun S, Wu C, Yu Q, Awadasseid A, Wang J, Zhang W. Recent advances and mechanisms of action of PD-L1 degraders as potential therapeutic agents. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116267. [PMID: 38422701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116267] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PD-L1 is an important immune checkpoint protein that can bind to T cells' PD-1 receptor, thereby promoting immune escape from tumors. In recent years, many researchers have developed strategies to degrade PD-L1 to improve the effect of immunotherapy. The study of degrading PD-L1 provides new opportunities for immunotherapy. Here, we mainly summarize and review the current active molecules and mechanisms that mediate the degradation of immature and mature PD-L1 during the post-translational modification stages, involving PD-L1 phosphorylation, glycosylation, palmitoylation, ubiquitination, and the autophagy-lysosomal process. This review expects that by degrading PD-L1 protein, we will not only gain a better understanding of oncogenic mechanisms involving tumor PD-L1 protein but also provide a new way to improve immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Ruiya Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Shishi Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Caiyun Wu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Qimeng Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Annoor Awadasseid
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Moganshan Institute, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Wen Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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12
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Li Y, Yuan Z, Wang L, Yang J, Pu P, Le Y, Chen X, Wang C, Gao Y, Liu Y, Wang J, Gao X, Li Y, Wang H, Zou C. Prolyl isomerase Pin1 sculpts the immune microenvironment of colorectal cancer. Cell Signal 2024; 115:111041. [PMID: 38199598 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111041] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Pin1, a peptide prolyl cis-trans isomerase, is overexpressed and/or overactivated in many human malignancies. However, whether Pin1 regulates the immunosuppressive TME has not been well defined. In this study, we detected the effect of Pin1 on immune cells and immune checkpoint PD-L1 in the TME of CRC and explored the anti-tumor efficacy of Pin1 inhibitor ATRA combined with PD-1 antibody. We found that Pin1 facilitated the immunosuppressive TME by raising the proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and declining the percentage of CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells. Pin1 restrained PD-L1 protein expression in CRC cells and the effect was tempered by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inducers. Mechanically, Pin1 overexpression decreased the stability of PD-L1 and promoted its degradation by mitigating ER stress. Silencing or inhibiting Pin1 promoted PD-L1 protein expression by inducing ER stress. Hence, Pin1 inhibitor ATRA enhanced the anti-tumor efficacy of PD-1 antibody in the CRC allograft by upregulating PD-L1. Our results reveal the critical and pleiotropic effects of Pin1 on managing the immune cells and immune checkpoint PD-L1 in the TME of CRC, providing a new promising candidate for combination with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Zhongnan Yuan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Pei Pu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yunting Le
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - XianWei Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Chongyang Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yating Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jialin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medicine Sciences, Harbin 150081, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research of Harbin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Harbin 150081, China; Key Laboratory of Preservation of Human Genetic Resources and Disease Control in China (Harbin Medical University), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yanze Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China.
| | - Hefei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China.
| | - Chaoxia Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medicine Sciences, Harbin 150081, China.
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13
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Awadasseid A, Wang R, Sun S, Zhang F, Wu Y, Zhang W. Small molecule and PROTAC molecule experiments in vitro and in vivo, focusing on mouse PD-L1 and human PD-L1 differences as targets. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116257. [PMID: 38350367 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116257] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting PD-L1 have been licensed by the FDA for use in the treatment of cancer, demonstrating the effectiveness of blocking immune checkpoints, particularly the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Although mAb-based therapies have made great strides, they still have their limitations, and new small-molecule or PROTAC-molecule inhibitors that can block the PD-1/PD-L1 axis are desperately needed. Therefore, it is crucial to translate initial in vitro discoveries into appropriate in vivo animal models when creating PD-L1-blocking therapies. Due to their widespread availability and low experimental expenses, classical immunocompetent mice are appealing for research purposes. However, it is yet unclear whether the mouse (m) PD-L1 interaction with human (h) PD-1 in vivo would produce a functional immunological checkpoint. In this review, we summarize the in vitro and in vivo experimental studies of small molecules and PROTAC molecules, particularly the distinctions between mPD-L1 as a target and hPD-L1 as a target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annoor Awadasseid
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Moganshan Institute ZJUT, Deqing 313202, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Biochemistry & Food Sciences, University of Kordofan, El-Obeid 51111, Sudan
| | - Rui Wang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Shishi Sun
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Lab of Molecular Immunology, Virus Inspection Department, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China.
| | - Wen Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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14
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Wang Y, Zhou Y, Yang L, Lei L, He B, Cao J, Gao H. Challenges Coexist with Opportunities: Spatial Heterogeneity Expression of PD-L1 in Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303175. [PMID: 37934012 PMCID: PMC10767451 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies has been used in various clinical applications and achieved certain results. However, such limitations as autoimmunity, tumor hyperprogression, and overall low patient response rate impede its further clinical application. Mounting evidence has revealed that PD-L1 is not only present in tumor cell membrane but also in cytoplasm, exosome, or even nucleus. Among these, the dynamic and spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 in tumors is mainly responsible for the unsatisfactory efficacy of PD-L1 antibodies. Hence, numerous studies focus on inhibiting or degrading PD-L1 to improve immune response, while a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying spatial heterogeneity of PD-L1 can fundamentally transform the current status of PD-L1 antibodies in clinical development. Herein, the concept of spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 is creatively introduced, encompassing the structure and biological functions of various kinds of PD-L1 (including mPD-L1, cPD-L1, nPD-L1, and exoPD-L1). Then an in-depth analysis of the regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of PD-L1 is provided, seeking to offer a solid basis for future investigation. Moreover, the current status of agents is summarized, especially small molecular modulators development directed at these new targets, offering a novel perspective on potential PD-L1 therapeutics strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhen Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Lianyi Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Lei Lei
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Jun Cao
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
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15
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Rocamora F, Peralta AG, Shin S, Sorrentino J, Wu MYM, Toth EA, Fuerst TR, Lewis NE. Glycosylation shapes the efficacy and safety of diverse protein, gene and cell therapies. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 67:108206. [PMID: 37354999 PMCID: PMC11168894 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Over recent decades, therapeutic proteins have had widespread success in treating a myriad of diseases. Glycosylation, a near universal feature of this class of drugs, is a critical quality attribute that significantly influences the physical properties, safety profile and biological activity of therapeutic proteins. Optimizing protein glycosylation, therefore, offers an important avenue to developing more efficacious therapies. In this review, we discuss specific examples of how variations in glycan structure and glycoengineering impacts the stability, safety, and clinical efficacy of protein-based drugs that are already in the market as well as those that are still in preclinical development. We also highlight the impact of glycosylation on next generation biologics such as T cell-based cancer therapy and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Rocamora
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Angelo G Peralta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Seunghyeon Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - James Sorrentino
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Mina Ying Min Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Eric A Toth
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Thomas R Fuerst
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD 20850, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Nathan E Lewis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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16
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Cerella C, Dicato M, Diederich M. Enhancing personalized immune checkpoint therapy by immune archetyping and pharmacological targeting. Pharmacol Res 2023; 196:106914. [PMID: 37714393 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are an expanding class of immunotherapeutic agents with the potential to cure cancer. Despite the outstanding clinical response in patient subsets, most individuals become refractory or develop resistance. Patient stratification and personalized immunotherapies are limited by the absence of predictive response markers. Recent findings show that dominant patterns of immune cell composition, T-cell status and heterogeneity, and spatiotemporal distribution of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) are becoming essential determinants of prognosis and therapeutic response. In this context, ICIs also function as investigational tools and proof of concept, allowing the validation of the identified mechanisms. After reviewing the current state of ICIs, this article will explore new comprehensive predictive markers for ICIs based on recent discoveries. We will discuss the recent establishment of a classification of TMEs into immune archetypes as a tool for personalized immune profiling, allowing patient stratification before ICI treatment. We will discuss the developing comprehension of T-cell diversity and its role in shaping the immune profile of patients. We describe the potential of strategies that score the mutual spatiotemporal modulation between T-cells and other cellular components of the TME. Additionally, we will provide an overview of a range of synthetic and naturally occurring or derived small molecules. We will compare compounds that were recently identified by in silico prediction to wet lab-validated drug candidates with the potential to function as ICIs and/or modulators of the cellular components of the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cerella
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer (LBMCC), Fondation Recherche sur le Cancer et les Maladies du Sang, Pavillon 2, 6A rue Barblé, L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Mario Dicato
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer (LBMCC), Fondation Recherche sur le Cancer et les Maladies du Sang, Pavillon 2, 6A rue Barblé, L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Marc Diederich
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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17
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Chopra C, Yodun T, Singh H, Singh B, Singh SK, Goutam U. Raloxifene, a SERM targets PD-L1: an in-silico study. Am J Transl Res 2023; 15:5206-5215. [PMID: 37692949 PMCID: PMC10492081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Immunotherapeutic interventions in cancer have been considerably successful and widely accepted for cancer treatment, but are costly and cannot be afforded by all patients. Because of the high cost, the pharmaceutical research groups across the world are sufficiently motivated to discover or design small molecule inhibitors to treat cancer through inhibition of the immune checkpoint proteins previously targeted with monoclonal antibodies. The presented study was designed with an aim to establish raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) as a potential ligand of the immune checkpoint protein Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). METHODS In the presented study, the in-silico approach was used for identifying a lead molecule against PD-L1. The hits were screened using the similarity-search method, and drug-likeliness analysis, and the leads were identified through ligand-docking using Autodock. In-vitro cytotoxicity analysis was carried out using the standard sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assay and the wound healing analysis to show the inhibition of cellular migration was performed using the standard scratch assay. RESULTS The in-silico study revealed that raloxifene showed a high drug likelihood and higher binding affinity with PD-L1 as compared to the positive control (BMS-1166; BMS is Bristol Myers Squibb). The binding of raloxifene was shown to occur in the same region as the FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies atezolizumab and durvalumab, indicating the potential of raloxifene for PD1/PD-L1 blockade. In the in-vitro studies, raloxifene showed a time-dependent reduction in IC50 values for the cell line HCT116 (colon cancer). The scratch assay also revealed that raloxifene significantly reduced the migratory potential of HCT-116 cells in-vitro. CONCLUSIONS PD-L1 is a potential target of the SERM raloxifene in-silico. Overall, this study is one step further towards immune checkpoint blockade using small-molecule inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag Chopra
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional UniversityPhagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Tenzen Yodun
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR)Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Harpreet Singh
- Department of Bioinformatics, Hans Raj Mahila Maha VidyalayaJalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Bhupender Singh
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional UniversityPhagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Shashank K Singh
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR)Jammu, J&K, India
| | - Umesh Goutam
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional UniversityPhagwara, Punjab, India
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18
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Hu X, Lv G, Hua D, Zhang N, Liu Q, Qin S, Zhang L, Xi H, Qiu L, Lin J. Preparation and Bioevaluation of 18F-Labeled Small-Molecular Radiotracers via Sulfur(VI) Fluoride Exchange Chemistry for Imaging of Programmed Cell Death Protein Ligand 1 Expression in Tumors. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:4228-4235. [PMID: 37409670 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, one of the most effective methods of tumor immunotherapy is blocking programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) immune checkpoints. However, there is still a significant challenge in selecting patients to benefit from immune checkpoint therapies. Positron emission tomography (PET), a noninvasive molecular imaging technique, offers a new approach to accurately detect PD-L1 expression and allows for a better prediction of response to PD-1/PD-L1 target immunotherapy. Here, we designed and synthesized a novel group of aryl fluorosulfate-containing small-molecule compounds (LGSu-1, LGSu-2, LGSu-3, and LGSu-4) based on the phenoxymethyl-biphenyl scaffold. After screening by the time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assay, the most potent compound LGSu-1 (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50): 15.53 nM) and the low-affinity compound LGSu-2 (IC50: 189.70 nM) as a control were selected for 18F-radiolabeling by sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange chemistry (SuFEx) to use for PET imaging. [18F]LGSu-1 and [18F]LGSu-2 were prepared by a one-step radiofluorination reaction in over 85% radioconversion and nearly 30% radiochemical yield. In B16-F10 melanoma cell assays, [18F]LGSu-1 (5.00 ± 0.06%AD) showed higher cellular uptake than [18F]LGSu-2 (2.55 ± 0.04%AD), in which cell uptake could be significantly blocked by the nonradioactivity LGSu-1. In vivo experiments, micro-PET imaging of B16-F10 tumor-bearing mice and radiographic autoradiography of tumor sections showed that [18F]LGSu-1 was more effectively accumulated in the tumor due to the higher binding affinity with PD-L1. The above experimental results confirmed the potential of the small-molecule probe LGSu-1 as a targeting PD-L1 imaging tracer in tumor tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Gaochao Lv
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Di Hua
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Shuai Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Hongjie Xi
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Ling Qiu
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
| | - Jianguo Lin
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, China
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19
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Ważyńska MA, Butera R, Requesens M, Plat A, Zarganes-Tzitzikas T, Neochoritis CG, Plewka J, Skalniak L, Kocik-Krol J, Musielak B, Magiera-Mularz K, Rodriguez I, Blok SN, de Bruyn M, Nijman HW, Elsinga PH, Holak TA, Dömling A. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of 2-Hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile as PD-L1 Antagonist and Its Comparison to Available Small Molecular PD-L1 Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37450644 PMCID: PMC10388299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In search of a potent small molecular PD-L1 inhibitor, we designed and synthesized a compound based on a 2-hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile moiety. Ligand's performance was tested in vitro and compared side-by-side with a known PD-L1 antagonist with a proven bioactivity BMS1166. Subsequently, we modified both compounds to allow 18F labeling that could be used for PET imaging. Radiolabeling, which is used in drug development and diagnosis, was applied to investigate the properties of those ligands and test them against tissue sections with diverse expression levels of PD-L1. We confirmed biological activity toward hPD-L1 for this inhibitor, comparable with BMS1166, while holding enhanced pharmacological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A Ważyńska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Butera
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Requesens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annechien Plat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tryfon Zarganes-Tzitzikas
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7FZ Oxford, U.K
| | | | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Lukasz Skalniak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Kocik-Krol
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ismael Rodriguez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Simon N Blok
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marco de Bruyn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans W Nijman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Philip H Elsinga
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tad A Holak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alexander Dömling
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc 77900, Czech Republic
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20
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Yan L, Sun Y, Guo J, Jia R. PD-L1 Exon 3 Is a Hidden Switch of Its Expression and Function in Oral Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098193. [PMID: 37175900 PMCID: PMC10178889 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction between programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) protects tumor cells from immune surveillance. PD-L1 exon 3 is a potential alternative exon and encodes an Ig variable (IgV) domain. Here, we found that a lack of exon 3 leads to the significant loss of cellular membrane locations and the dramatically reduced protein expression of PD-L1, indicating that PD-L1 exon 3 is essential for its protein expression and translocation to the cell membrane. Notably, oral cancer cells show almost no exon 3 skipping to ensure the expression of the full-length, functional PD-L1 protein. We discovered two key exonic splicing enhancers (ESEs) for exon 3 inclusion. Two efficient antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) were identified to block these two ESEs, which can significantly trigger exon 3 skipping and decrease the production of full-length, functional PD-L1 on the surface of cancer cells. Treatment of oral cancer cells with these ASOs significantly enhanced immune cells' suppression of cancer cell proliferation. Surprisingly, these two ASOs also significantly inhibited cell growth and induced cell pyroptosis in oral cancer cells. Altogether, the results of our study demonstrate the pivotal roles of exon 3 in PD-L1 expression and provide a novel anti-PD-L1 method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Yan
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Jihua Guo
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Endodontics, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Rong Jia
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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21
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Fu PP, Wang Q, Zhang Q, Jin Y, Liu J, Chen KX, Guo YW, Liu SH, Li XW. Bioactivity-Driven Synthesis of the Marine Natural Product Naamidine J and Its Derivatives as Potential Tumor Immunological Agents by Inhibiting Programmed Death-Ligand 1. J Med Chem 2023; 66:5427-5438. [PMID: 37040446 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The total synthesis of the marine natural product naamidine J and a rapid structure modification toward its derivatives were achieved on the basis of several rounds of structure-relationship analyses of their tumor immunological activities. These compounds were tested for programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein expression in human colorectal adenocarcinoma RKO cells. Among them, compound 11c was found to efficiently suppress constitutive PD-L1 expression in RKO cells with low toxicity and further exerted its antitumor effect in MC38 tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice by reducing PD-L1 expression and enhancing tumor-infiltrating T-cell immunity. This research work may provide insight for the discovery of new marine natural product-derived tumor immunological drug leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan-Pan Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yang Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kai-Xian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yue-Wei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - San-Hong Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xu-Wen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
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22
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Sun C, Yin M, Cheng Y, Kuang Z, Liu X, Wang G, Wang X, Yuan K, Min W, Dong J, Hou Y, Hu L, Zhang G, Pei W, Wang L, Sun Y, Yu X, Xiao Y, Deng H, Yang P. Novel Small-Molecule PD-L1 Inhibitor Induces PD-L1 Internalization and Optimizes the Immune Microenvironment. J Med Chem 2023; 66:2064-2083. [PMID: 36579489 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction has become an important strategy for tumor therapy, which has shown outstanding therapeutic effects in clinical settings. However, unsatisfactory response rates and immune-related adverse effects limit the use of anti-PD1/PD-L1 antibodies. Here, we report the discovery and identification of S4-1, an innovative small-molecule inhibitor of PD-L1. In vitro, S4-1 effectively altered the PD-L1/PD-1 interaction, induced PD-L1 dimerization and internalization, improved its localization to endoplasmic reticulum, and thus enhanced the cytotoxicity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells toward tumor cells. In vivo, S4-1 significantly inhibited tumor growth in both lung and colorectal cancer models, particularly in colorectal cancer, where it led to complete clearance of a portion of the tumor cells. Furthermore, S4-1 induced T-cell activation and inversed the inhibitory tumor microenvironment, consistent with the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway blockade. These data support the continued evaluation of S4-1 as an alternative ICB therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengliang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Mingxiao Yin
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Zean Kuang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaojia Liu
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Gefei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenjian Min
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jingwen Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Lingrong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Guoyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenli Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Liping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yanze Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xinmiao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hongbin Deng
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Peng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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23
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Zheng L, Yang Q, Li F, Zhu M, Yang H, Tan T, Wu B, Liu M, Xu C, Yin J, Cao C. The Glycosylation of Immune Checkpoints and Their Applications in Oncology. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121451. [PMID: 36558902 PMCID: PMC9783268 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor therapies have entered the immunotherapy era. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have achieved tremendous success, with some patients achieving long-term tumor control. Tumors, on the other hand, can still accomplish immune evasion, which is aided by immune checkpoints. The majority of immune checkpoints are membrane glycoproteins, and abnormal tumor glycosylation may alter how the immune system perceives tumors, affecting the body's anti-tumor immunity. Furthermore, RNA can also be glycosylated, and GlycoRNA is important to the immune system. Glycosylation has emerged as a new hallmark of tumors, with glycosylation being considered a potential therapeutic approach. The glycosylation modification of immune checkpoints and the most recent advances in glycosylation-targeted immunotherapy are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Zheng
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Biotherapy Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Feifei Li
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical BioResource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Min Zhu
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Haochi Yang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Tian Tan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Binghuo Wu
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Mingxin Liu
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence: (J.Y.); (C.C.)
| | - Chenhui Cao
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence: (J.Y.); (C.C.)
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24
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Cao P, Yang X, Liu D, Ye S, Yang W, Xie Z, Lei X. Research progress of
PD‐L1
non‐glycosylation in cancer immunotherapy. Scand J Immunol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/sji.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pu Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Daquan Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Simin Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Wei Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Zhizhong Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyong Lei
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
- The Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China Hengyang Hunan P.R. China
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25
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Krutzek F, Kopka K, Stadlbauer S. Development of Radiotracers for Imaging of the PD-1/PD-L1 Axis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060747. [PMID: 35745666 PMCID: PMC9228425 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has emerged as a major treatment option for a variety of cancers. Among the immune checkpoints addressed, the programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 are the key targets for an ICI. PD-L1 has especially been proven to be a reproducible biomarker allowing for therapy decisions and monitoring therapy success. However, the expression of PD-L1 is not only heterogeneous among and within tumor lesions, but the expression is very dynamic and changes over time. Immunohistochemistry, which is the standard diagnostic tool, can only inadequately address these challenges. On the other hand, molecular imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) provide the advantage of a whole-body scan and therefore fully address the issue of the heterogeneous expression of checkpoints over time. Here, we provide an overview of existing PET, SPECT, and optical imaging (OI) (radio)tracers for the imaging of the upregulation levels of PD-1 and PD-L1. We summarize the preclinical and clinical data of the different molecule classes of radiotracers and discuss their respective advantages and disadvantages. At the end, we show possible future directions for developing new radiotracers for the imaging of PD-1/PD-L1 status in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technical University Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, University Cancer Cancer (UCC), 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence:
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26
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Sasikumar PG, Ramachandra M. Small Molecule Agents Targeting PD-1 Checkpoint Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy: Mechanisms of Action and Other Considerations for Their Advanced Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:752065. [PMID: 35585982 PMCID: PMC9108255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.752065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pioneering success of antibodies targeting immune checkpoints such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) has changed the outlook of cancer therapy. Although these antibodies show impressive durable clinical activity, low response rates and immune-related adverse events are becoming increasingly evident in antibody-based approaches. For further strides in cancer immunotherapy, novel treatment strategies including combination therapies and alternate therapeutic modalities are highly warranted. Towards this discovery and development of small molecule, checkpoint inhibitors are actively being pursued, and the efforts have culminated in the ongoing clinical testing of orally bioavailable checkpoint inhibitors. This review focuses on the small molecule agents targeting PD-1 checkpoint pathway for cancer immunotherapy and highlights various chemotypes/scaffolds and their characterization including binding and functionality along with reported mechanism of action. The learnings from the ongoing small molecule clinical trials and crucial points to be considered for their clinical development are also discussed.
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27
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Wu M, Huang Q, Xie Y, Wu X, Ma H, Zhang Y, Xia Y. Improvement of the anticancer efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade via combination therapy and PD-L1 regulation. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:24. [PMID: 35279217 PMCID: PMC8917703 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01242-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 87.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint molecules are promising anticancer targets, among which therapeutic antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway have been widely applied to cancer treatment in clinical practice and have great potential. However, this treatment is greatly limited by its low response rates in certain cancers, lack of known biomarkers, immune-related toxicity, innate and acquired drug resistance, etc. Overcoming these limitations would significantly expand the anticancer applications of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and improve the response rate and survival time of cancer patients. In the present review, we first illustrate the biological mechanisms of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoints and their role in the healthy immune system as well as in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The PD-1/PD-L1 pathway inhibits the anticancer effect of T cells in the TME, which in turn regulates the expression levels of PD-1 and PD-L1 through multiple mechanisms. Several strategies have been proposed to solve the limitations of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatment, including combination therapy with other standard treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-angiogenic therapy, other immunotherapies and even diet control. Downregulation of PD-L1 expression in the TME via pharmacological or gene regulation methods improves the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatment. Surprisingly, recent preclinical studies have shown that upregulation of PD-L1 in the TME also improves the response and efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade. Immunotherapy is a promising anticancer strategy that provides novel insight into clinical applications. This review aims to guide the development of more effective and less toxic anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengling Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qianrui Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Xuyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hongbo Ma
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China. .,Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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28
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Wang T, Cai S, Cheng Y, Zhang W, Wang M, Sun H, Guo B, Li Z, Xiao Y, Jiang S. Discovery of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the PD-1/PD-L1 Axis That Promote PD-L1 Internalization and Degradation. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3879-3893. [PMID: 35188766 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Several monoclonal antibodies targeting the programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathway have been used successfully in anticancer immunotherapy. Inherent limitations of antibody-based therapies remain, however, and alternative small-molecule inhibitors that can block the PD-1/PD-L1 axis are urgent needed. Herein, we report the discovery of compound 17 as a bifunctional inhibitor of PD-1/PD-L1 interactions. 17 inhibits PD-1/PD-L1 interactions and promotes dimerization, internalization, and degradation of PD-L1. 17 promotes cell-surface PD-L1 internalized into the cytosol and induces the degradation of PD-L1 in tumor cells through a lysosome-dependent pathway. Furthermore, 17 suppresses tumor growth in vivo by activating antitumor immunity. These results demonstrate that 17 targets the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and induces PD-L1 degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wanheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Minmin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Huiyong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Binghua Guo
- Syntron Company, Ltd., Yanchen 224500, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Center for Bioenergetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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29
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Yamaguchi H, Hsu JM, Yang WH, Hung MC. Mechanisms regulating PD-L1 expression in cancers and associated opportunities for novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022; 19:287-305. [DOI: 10.1038/s41571-022-00601-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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30
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Choi Y, Kim J, Chae J, Hong J, Park J, Jeong E, Kim H, Tanaka M, Okochi M, Choi J. Surface glycan targeting for cancer nano-immunotherapy. J Control Release 2022; 342:321-336. [PMID: 34998918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is an emerging therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. Most of the immunotherapeutics approved by the FDA regulate the innate immune system and associated immune cell activity, with immune check inhibitors in particular having transformed the field of cancer immunotherapy due to their significant clinical potential. However, previously reported immunotherapeutics have exhibited undesirable side effects, including autoimmune toxicity and inflammation. Controlling these deleterious responses and designing therapeutics that can precisely target specific regions are thus crucial to improving the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. Recent studies have reported that cancer cells employ glycan-immune checkpoint interactions to modulate immune cell activity. Thus, the recognition of cancer glycan moieties such as sialoglycans may improve the anticancer activity of immune cells. In this review, we discuss recent advances in cancer immunotherapies involving glycans and glycan-targeting technologies based on nanomaterial-assisted local delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghyun Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwon Kim
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jayoung Chae
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joohye Hong
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongjun Park
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunseo Jeong
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hayoung Kim
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Masayoshi Tanaka
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-S1-24, O-okayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8552, Japan
| | - Mina Okochi
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1-S1-24, O-okayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8552, Japan
| | - Jonghoon Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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31
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Zhao H, Luo F, Xue J, Li S, Xu RH. Emerging immunological strategies: recent advances and future directions. Front Med 2021; 15:805-828. [PMID: 34874513 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0886-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy plays a compelling role in cancer treatment and has already made remarkable progress. However, many patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors fail to achieve clinical benefits, and the response rates vary among tumor types. New approaches that promote anti-tumor immunity have recently been developed, such as small molecules, bispecific antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor T cell products, and cancer vaccines. Small molecule drugs include agonists and inhibitors that can reach the intracellular or extracellular targets of immune cells participating in innate or adaptive immune pathways. Bispecific antibodies, which bind two different antigens or one antigen with two different epitopes, are of great interest. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell products and cancer vaccines have also been investigated. This review explores the recent progress and challenges of different forms of immunotherapy agents and provides an insight into future immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyun Zhao
- Department of Clinical Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fan Luo
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinhui Xue
- Department of Clinical Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Su Li
- Department of Clinical Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rui-Hua Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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32
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Mittal L, Tonk RK, Awasthi A, Asthana S. Targeting cryptic-orthosteric site of PD-L1 for inhibitor identification using structure-guided approach. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 713:109059. [PMID: 34673001 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Approved mAbs that block the protein-protein interaction (PPI) interface of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint axis have led to significant improvements in cancer treatment. Despite having drawbacks of mAbs only few a compounds are reported till date against this axis. Inhibiting PPIs using small molecules has emerged as a significant therapeutic opportunity, demanding for the identification of drug-like molecules at an accelerated pace under the hit-to-lead campaigns. Due to the PD-L1's cross-talk with PD-1/CD80 and its overexpression on cancer cells, as well as the availability of its crystal structures with small molecules, it is an enticing therapeutic target for structure-assisted small molecule design. Furthermore, the selection of chemical databases enriched with focused designing for PPI interfaces is crucial. Therefore, in this study we have utilized the Asinex signature library for structure-assisted virtual screening to find the potential PD-L1 inhibitors by targeting the cryptic PD-L1 interface, followed by induced fit docking for pose refinements in the pocket. The obtained hits were then subjected to interaction fingerprinting and ligand-based drug-likeness investigations in order to evaluate and analyze their drug-like qualities (ADME). Twelve compounds qualified for molecular dynamics simulations, followed by thermodynamic calculations for evaluation of their stability and energetics inside the pocket. Two novel compounds with different chemical moieties have been identified that are consistent throughout the simulation, mimicking the interactions and binding energies with BMS-1166. These compounds appear as potential therapeutic candidates to be explored experimentally, thereby paving the way for the development of novel leads as immunomodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovika Mittal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India; Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Rajiv K Tonk
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Shailendra Asthana
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India.
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Surmiak E, Magiera-Mularz K, Musielak B, Muszak D, Kocik-Krol J, Kitel R, Plewka J, Holak TA, Skalniak L. PD-L1 Inhibitors: Different Classes, Activities, and Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111797. [PMID: 34769226 PMCID: PMC8583776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111797] [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: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) interaction has become an established strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Although hundreds of small-molecule, peptide, and peptidomimetic inhibitors have been proposed in recent years, only a limited number of drug candidates show good PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity in cell-based assays. In this article, we compare representative molecules from different classes in terms of their PD-1/PD-L1 dissociation capacity measured by HTRF and in vitro bioactivity determined by the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) co-culture assay. We point to recent discoveries that underscore important differences in the mechanisms of action of these molecules and also indicate one principal feature that needs to be considered, which is the eventual human PD-L1 specificity.
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Li C, Chi H, Deng S, Wang H, Yao H, Wang Y, Chen D, Guo X, Fang JY, He F, Xu J. THADA drives Golgi residency and upregulation of PD-L1 in cancer cells and provides promising target for immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-002443. [PMID: 34341130 PMCID: PMC8330570 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-002443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The abnormal upregulation of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in cancer cells inhibits T cell-mediated cytotoxicity, but the molecular mechanisms that drive and maintain PD-L1 expression are still incompletely understood. Methods Combined analyses of genomes and proteomics were applied to find potential regulators of PD-L1. In vitro experiments were performed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of PD-L1 by thyroid adenoma associated gene (THADA) using human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. The prevalence of THADA was analyzed using CRC tissue microarrays by immunohistochemistry. T cell killing assay, programmed cell death 1 binding assay and MC38 transplanted tumor models in C57BL/6 mice were developed to investigate the antitumor effect of THADA. Results THADA is critically required for the Golgi residency of PD-L1, and this non-redundant, coat protein complex II (COPII)-associated mechanism maintains PD-L1 expression in tumor cells. THADA mediated the interaction between PD-L1 as a cargo protein with SEC24A, a module on the COPII trafficking vesicle. Silencing THADA caused absence and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention of PD-L1 but not major histocompatibility complex-I, inducing PD-L1 clearance through ER-associated degradation. Targeting THADA substantially enhanced T cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and increased CD8+ T cells infiltration in mouse tumor tissues. Analysis on clinical tissue samples supported a potential role of THADA in upregulating PD-L1 expression in cancer. Conclusions Our data reveal a crucial cellular process for PD-L1 maturation and maintenance in tumor cells, and highlight THADA as a promising target for overcoming PD-L1-dependent immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chushu Li
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (visiting), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Chi
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shouyan Deng
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (visiting), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huanbin Wang
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (visiting), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Yao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yungang Wang
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dawei Chen
- Innomodels Biotechnology (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Xun Guo
- Innomodels Biotechnology (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Yuan Fang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang He
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Glycosylation of Immune Receptors in Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051100. [PMID: 34064396 PMCID: PMC8147841 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Evading host immune surveillance is one of the hallmarks of cancer. Immune checkpoint therapy, which aims to eliminate cancer progression by reprogramming the antitumor immune response, currently occupies a solid position in the rapidly expanding arsenal of cancer therapy. As most immune checkpoints are membrane glycoproteins, mounting attention is drawn to asking how protein glycosylation affects immune function. The answers to this fundamental question will stimulate the rational development of future cancer diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.
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Metabolism and Interspecies Variation of IMMH-010, a Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 Inhibitor Prodrug. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13050598. [PMID: 33919384 PMCID: PMC8143347 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
IMMH-010 is an ester prodrug of YPD-29B, a potent programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor. The metabolism of IMMH-010 was investigated and compared in various species. Four metabolites of IMMH-010 were identified, and the major metabolite was the parent compound, YPD-29B, which was mainly catalyzed by carboxylesterase 1 (CES1). We observed IMMH-010 metabolism in the plasma of various species. IMMH-010 was rapidly metabolized to YPD-29B in rat and mouse plasma, whereas it remained stable in human and monkey plasma. In the liver S9 fractions of human, monkey, dog, and rat, IMMH-010 was quickly transformed to YPD-29B with no obvious differences among species. In addition, the transformation ratio of IMMH-010 to YPD-29B was low in rat and human intestines, which indicated that the intestine was not an important site for IMMH-010 hydrolysis. Moreover, we demonstrated the remarkable antitumor efficacy of IMMH-010 in B16F10 melanoma and MC38 colon carcinoma xenograft mouse models. We also compared the pharmacokinetic profiles of IMMH-010 in rodents and primates. After oral administration of IMMH-010, the general exposure of active metabolite YPD-29B was slightly lower in primates than in rodents, suggesting that data should be extrapolated cautiously from rodents to humans.
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