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Sofi FA, Tabassum N. Natural product inspired leads in the discovery of anticancer agents: an update. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:8605-8628. [PMID: 36255181 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2134212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Natural products have emerged as major leads for the discovery and development of new anti-cancer drugs. The plant-derived anti-cancer drugs account for approximately 60% and the quest for new anti-cancer agents is in progress. Anti-cancer leads have been isolated from plants, animals, marine organisms, and microorganisms from time immemorial. The process of semisynthetic modifications of the parent lead has led to the generation of new anti-cancer agents with improved therapeutic efficacy and minimal side effects. The various chemo-informatics tools, bioinformatics, high-throughput screening, and combinatorial synthesis are able to deliver the new natural product lead molecules. Plant-derived anticancer agents in either late preclinical development or early clinical trials include taxol, vincristine, vinblastine, topotecan, irinotecan, etoposide, paclitaxel, and docetaxel. Similarly, anti-cancer agents from microbial sources include dactinomycin, bleomycin, mitomycin C, and doxorubicin. In this review, we highlighted the importance of natural products leads in the discovery and development of novel anti-cancer agents. The semisynthetic modifications of the parent lead to the new anti-cancer agent are also presented. Further, the leads in the preclinical settings with the potential to become effective anticancer agents are also reviewed.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firdoos Ahmad Sofi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Applied Sciences and Technology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Nahida Tabassum
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Applied Sciences and Technology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
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2
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Lan T, Xue X, Dunmall LC, Miao J, Wang Y. Patient-derived xenograft: a developing tool for screening biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for human esophageal cancers. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:12273-12293. [PMID: 33903283 PMCID: PMC8109069 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) represents a human malignancy, diagnosed often at the advanced stage of cancer and resulting in high morbidity and mortality. The development of precision medicine allows for the identification of more personalized therapeutic strategies to improve cancer treatment. By implanting primary cancer tissues into immunodeficient mice for expansion, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models largely maintain similar histological and genetic representations naturally found in patients' tumor cells. PDX models of EC (EC-PDX) provide fine platforms to investigate the tumor microenvironment, tumor genomic heterogeneity, and tumor response to chemoradiotherapy, which are necessary for new drug discovery to combat EC in addition to optimization of current therapeutic strategies for EC. In this review, we summarize the methods used for establishing EC-PDX models and investigate the utilities of EC-PDX in screening predictive biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. The challenge of this promising research tool is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianfeng Lan
- Sino-British Research Center for Molecular Oncology, National Center for the International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, School of Basic Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Xia Xue
- Sino-British Research Center for Molecular Oncology, National Center for the International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, School of Basic Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- The Academy of Medical Science, Precision Medicine Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Louisa Chard Dunmall
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Biotherapeuitcs, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Jinxin Miao
- Sino-British Research Center for Molecular Oncology, National Center for the International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, School of Basic Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Science, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Yaohe Wang
- Sino-British Research Center for Molecular Oncology, National Center for the International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, School of Basic Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers and Biotherapeuitcs, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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3
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Buzun K, Bielawska A, Bielawski K, Gornowicz A. DNA topoisomerases as molecular targets for anticancer drugs. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2020; 35:1781-1799. [PMID: 32975138 PMCID: PMC7534307 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2020.1821676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant role of topoisomerases in the control of DNA chain topology has been confirmed in numerous research conducted worldwide. The prevalence of these enzymes, as well as the key importance of topoisomerase in the proper functioning of cells, have made them the target of many scientific studies conducted all over the world. This article is a comprehensive review of knowledge about topoisomerases and their inhibitors collected over the years. Studies on the structure-activity relationship and molecular docking are one of the key elements driving drug development. In addition to information on molecular targets, this article contains details on the structure-activity relationship of described classes of compounds. Moreover, the work also includes details about the structure of the compounds that drive the mode of action of topoisomerase inhibitors. Finally, selected topoisomerases inhibitors at the stage of clinical trials and their potential application in the chemotherapy of various cancers are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Buzun
- Department of Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Anna Bielawska
- Department of Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Bielawski
- Department of Synthesis and Technology of Drugs, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Gornowicz
- Department of Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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Kargozar S, Baino F, Hamzehlou S, Hamblin MR, Mozafari M. Nanotechnology for angiogenesis: opportunities and challenges. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:5008-5057. [PMID: 32538379 PMCID: PMC7418030 DOI: 10.1039/c8cs01021h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a critical role within the human body, from the early stages of life (i.e., embryonic development) to life-threatening diseases (e.g., cancer, heart attack, stroke, wound healing). Many pharmaceutical companies have expended huge efforts on both stimulation and inhibition of angiogenesis. During the last decade, the nanotechnology revolution has made a great impact in medicine, and regulatory approvals are starting to be achieved for nanomedicines to treat a wide range of diseases. Angiogenesis therapies involve the inhibition of angiogenesis in oncology and ophthalmology, and stimulation of angiogenesis in wound healing and tissue engineering. This review aims to summarize nanotechnology-based strategies that have been explored in the broad area of angiogenesis. Lipid-based, carbon-based and polymeric nanoparticles, and a wide range of inorganic and metallic nanoparticles are covered in detail. Theranostic and imaging approaches can be facilitated by nanoparticles. Many preparations have been reported to have a bimodal effect where they stimulate angiogenesis at low dose and inhibit it at higher doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Kargozar
- Tissue Engineering Research Group (TERG), Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, 917794-8564 Mashhad, Iran
| | - Francesco Baino
- Institute of Materials Physics and Engineering, Applied Science and Technology Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 101 29 Torino, Italy
| | - Sepideh Hamzehlou
- Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa
| | - Masoud Mozafari
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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5
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Yang CJ, Li B, Zhang ZJ, Gao JM, Wang MJ, Zhao XB, Song ZL, Liu YQ, Li H, Chen Y, Lee KH, Morris-Natschke SL, Xu C. Design, synthesis and antineoplastic activity of novel 20(S)-acylthiourea derivatives of camptothecin. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 187:111971. [PMID: 31881457 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
For the purpose of advancing our research on diverse C-20 decorated derivatives of camptothecin (CPT), 46 new CPT acylthiourea derivatives were synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxicity. All the compounds showed promising in vitro cytotoxicity against six tumor cell lines (Hep3B, MCF7, A549, MDA-MB-231, KB and KB-vin). Out of them, compound c20 possesses remarkable in vitro cytotoxic activity and is more potent than topotecan. Mechanistically, c20 not only induces cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis in A549 cells, but also inhibits Topo I activity in the cell and cell-free system in a manner similar to that of topotecan. In both xenograft and primary HCC mouse models, c20 displays significant in vivo anti-cancer activity and is more potent than topotecan. In addition, the acute toxicity assay showed that c20 has no apparent toxicity to mouse liver, kidney and hemopoietic system of the FVB/N mice. Take together, these results indicated that compound c20 could be a potential anti-cancer candidate for further clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Jie Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Bin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, PR China
| | - Zhi-Jun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Jian-Mei Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Mei-Juan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Zi-Long Song
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Ying-Qian Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China; College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310000, PR China.
| | - Hu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Yuyuan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, PR China
| | - Kuo-Hsiung Lee
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Susan L Morris-Natschke
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Chuanrui Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, PR China
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6
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Reguera RM, Elmahallawy EK, García-Estrada C, Carbajo-Andrés R, Balaña-Fouce R. DNA Topoisomerases of Leishmania Parasites; Druggable Targets for Drug Discovery. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:5900-5923. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180518074959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
DNA topoisomerases (Top) are a group of isomerase enzymes responsible for controlling the topological problems caused by DNA double helix in the cell during the processes of replication, transcription and recombination. Interestingly, these enzymes have been known since long to be key molecular machines in several cellular processes through overwinding or underwinding of DNA in all living organisms. Leishmania, a trypanosomatid parasite responsible for causing fatal diseases mostly in impoverished populations of low-income countries, has a set of six classes of Top enzymes. These are placed in the nucleus and the single mitochondrion and can be deadly targets of suitable drugs. Given the fact that there are clear differences in structure and expression between parasite and host enzymes, numerous studies have reported the therapeutic potential of Top inhibitors as antileishmanial drugs. In this regard, numerous compounds have been described as Top type IB and Top type II inhibitors in Leishmania parasites, such as camptothecin derivatives, indenoisoquinolines, indeno-1,5- naphthyridines, fluoroquinolones, anthracyclines and podophyllotoxins. The aim of this review is to highlight several facts about Top and Top inhibitors as potential antileishmanial drugs, which may represent a promising strategy for the control of this disease of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa M. Reguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leon (ULE), Leon, Spain
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7
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Liu X, Adane E, Tang F, Leggas M. Pharmacokinetic modeling of the blood-stable camptothecin analog AR-67 in two different formulations. Biopharm Drug Dispos 2019; 40:265-275. [PMID: 31292985 DOI: 10.1002/bdd.2199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AR-67 is a lipophilic camptothecin analog currently under clinical investigation using a Cremophor EL based formulation. However, as potential toxicity limitations exist in the clinical use of Cremophor, an alternative cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) based formulation has been proposed. Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies were conducted in mice and the SBE-β-CD based formulation was compared with the Cremophor EL formulation. PK studies were conducted following intravenous or oral administration of AR-67 in either Cremophor or SBE-β-CD formulation in mice. Noncompartmental analysis was used to determine the plasma and tissue drug distribution. A non-linear mixed effects (population) PK model was developed to fit both the oral and intravenous data and to estimate key PK parameters. The effect of formulation was explored as a covariate in the PK model. AR-67 in the SBE-β-CD formulation had similar plasma PK and biodistribution to that in the Cremophor EL formulation. The proposed two-compartment model described the plasma PK of AR-67 in both formulations adequately. AR-67 in the SBE-β-CD formulation exhibited dose linearity following both oral and intravenous administration. Our studies indicate that SBE-β-CD is a viable alternative to Cremophor EL as a pharmaceutical excipient for formulating AR-67.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxi Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Eyob Adane
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH, USA
| | - Fei Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 323 Bio Pharm Complex, 789 South Limestone St, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Markos Leggas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky 323 Bio Pharm Complex, 789 South Limestone St, Lexington, KY, USA
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Weng Q, Zhou L, Xia L, Zheng Y, Zhang X, Li F, Li Q. In vitro evaluation of FL118 and 9-Q20 cytotoxicity and cellular uptake in 2D and 3D different cell models. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2019; 84:527-537. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-019-03846-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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9
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Lynch C, Zhao J, Sakamuru S, Zhang L, Huang R, Witt KL, Merrick BA, Teng CT, Xia M. Identification of Compounds That Inhibit Estrogen-Related Receptor Alpha Signaling Using High-Throughput Screening Assays. Molecules 2019; 24:E841. [PMID: 30818834 PMCID: PMC6429183 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24050841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor, estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα; NR3B1), plays a pivotal role in energy homeostasis. Its expression fluctuates with the demands of energy production in various tissues. When paired with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α), the PGC/ERR pathway regulates a host of genes that participate in metabolic signaling networks and in mitochondrial oxidative respiration. Unregulated overexpression of ERRα is found in many cancer cells, implicating a role in cancer progression and other metabolism-related diseases. Using high throughput screening assays, we screened the Tox21 10K compound library in stably transfected HEK293 cells containing either the ERRα-reporter or the reporter plus PGC-1α expression plasmid. We identified two groups of antagonists that were potent inhibitors of ERRα activity and/or the PGC/ERR pathway: nine antineoplastic agents and thirteen pesticides. Results were confirmed using gene expression studies. These findings suggest a novel mechanism of action on bioenergetics for five of the nine antineoplastic drugs. Nine of the thirteen pesticides, which have not been investigated previously for ERRα disrupting activity, were classified as such. In conclusion, we demonstrated that high-throughput screening assays can be used to reveal new biological properties of therapeutic and environmental chemicals, broadening our understanding of their modes of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Lynch
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Jinghua Zhao
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Srilatha Sakamuru
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Li Zhang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Ruili Huang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Kristine L Witt
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - B Alex Merrick
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Christina T Teng
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Menghang Xia
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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Cinelli MA. Topoisomerase 1B poisons: Over a half-century of drug leads, clinical candidates, and serendipitous discoveries. Med Res Rev 2018; 39:1294-1337. [PMID: 30456874 DOI: 10.1002/med.21546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Topoisomerases are DNA processing enzymes that relieve supercoiling (torsional strain) in DNA, are necessary for normal cellular division, and act by nicking (and then religating) DNA strands. Type 1B topoisomerase (Top1) is overexpressed in certain tumors, and the enzyme has been extensively investigated as a target for cancer chemotherapy. Various chemical agents can act as "poisons" of the enzyme's religation step, leading to Top1-DNA lesions, DNA breakage, and eventual cellular death. In this review, agents that poison Top1 (and have thus been investigated for their anticancer properties) are surveyed, including natural products (such as camptothecins and indolocarbazoles), semisynthetic camptothecin and luotonin derivatives, and synthetic compounds (such as benzonaphthyridines, aromathecins, and indenoisoquinolines), as well as targeted therapies and conjugates. Top1 has also been investigated as a therapeutic target in certain viral and parasitic infections, as well as autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurological disorders, and a summary of literature describing alternative indications is also provided. This review should provide both a reference for the medicinal chemist and potentially offer clues to aid in the development of new Top1 poisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maris A Cinelli
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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A novel oral camptothecin analog, gimatecan, exhibits superior antitumor efficacy than irinotecan toward esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in vitro and in vivo. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:661. [PMID: 29855512 PMCID: PMC5981453 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0700-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a frequently diagnosed and deadly malignancy with few standard therapeutic options. Camptothecins are considered one of the most promising antitumor drugs. A modified lipophilic analog, gimatecan, was synthesized as a novel oral camptothecin and showed impressive effects in various tumors, but its therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms in ESCC remain unclear. This study investigated the antitumor efficacy and mechanisms of gimatecan in ECSS both in vitro and in vivo. Using ESCC cell lines, cell line-derived xenografts and patient-derived xenografts models, we evaluated gimatecan’s inhibition of tumor growth, and compared its antitumor efficacy with that of irinotecan. Topoisomerase I function and expression were assessed using the DNA relaxation assay and Western blotting, respectively. DNA damage was evaluated by Western blotting. Cell cycle progression and cell apoptosis were assessed using flow cytometry and Western blotting. Gimatecan could significantly suppress tumor growth in vivo and inhibit tumor cell proliferation in vitro, which was superior to irinotecan. Gimatecan suppressed the function and expression of topoisomerase I. It also caused DNA damage and activated the phosphorylation of multiple checkpoint gatekeepers, such as ATM, ATR, BRCA1, H2AX, CHK1, CHK2, and p53. It induced S phase arrest, enhanced the expression of p21WAF1/CIP, and suppressed the expression of CDK2 and cyclin A. Induction of apoptosis was accompanied by increases in Bax, cleaved-caspase 3 activation, cleaved-caspase 9 induction, and a decrease in Bcl-2. The molecular and phenotypic changes induced by gimatecan were stronger than that of irinotecan. In ESCC, gimatecan suppressed the expression and function of topoisomerase I, induced DNA damage and intra-S phase cell cycle arrest, and resulted in apoptosis. And the results suggest that gimatecan has higher potency in inhibiting ESCC tumor growth than irinotecan, providing a rational novel therapeutic strategy for future clinical evaluation.
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12
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Shang XF, Morris-Natschke SL, Liu YQ, Guo X, Xu XS, Goto M, Li JC, Yang GZ, Lee KH. Biologically active quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids part I. Med Res Rev 2018; 38:775-828. [PMID: 28902434 PMCID: PMC6421866 DOI: 10.1002/med.21466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids, two important classes of N-based heterocyclic compounds, have attracted tremendous attention from researchers worldwide since the 19th century. Over the past 200 years, many compounds from these two classes were isolated from natural sources, and most of them and their modified analogs possess significant bioactivities. Quinine and camptothecin are two of the most famous and important quinoline alkaloids, and their discoveries opened new areas in antimalarial and anticancer drug development, respectively. In this review, we survey the literature on bioactive alkaloids from these two classes and highlight research achievements prior to the year 2008 (Part I). Over 200 molecules with a broad range of bioactivities, including antitumor, antimalarial, antibacterial and antifungal, antiparasitic and insecticidal, antiviral, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, herbicidal, antioxidant and other activities, were reviewed. This survey should provide new clues or possibilities for the discovery of new and better drugs from the original naturally occurring quinoline and quinazoline alkaloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Fei Shang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development of Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Susan L. Morris-Natschke
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ying-Qian Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development of Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Shan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Masuo Goto
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jun-Cai Li
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Guan-Zhou Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, P.R. China
| | - Kuo-Hsiung Lee
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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13
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Chen Z, Liu Z, Huang W, Li Z, Zou J, Wang J, Lin X, Li B, Chen D, Hu Y, Ji J, Gao J, Shen L. Gimatecan exerts potent antitumor activity against gastric cancer in vitro and in vivo via AKT and MAPK signaling pathways. J Transl Med 2017; 15:253. [PMID: 29237470 PMCID: PMC5729429 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1360-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We investigated antitumor activity and underlying mechanisms of DNA topoisomerase I (TopI) inhibitor gimatecan and irinotecan in gastric cancer (GC) in vitro cell lines and in vivo patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Methods GC cell lines SNU-1, HGC27, MGC803 and NCI-N87 were used to evaluate cell viability and apoptosis after gimatecan or irinotecan treatment, using a cell proliferation assay and flow cytometry, respectively. DNA TopI expression and critical molecules of PI3K/AKT, MAPK and apoptosis signaling pathways were analyzed with western blot. For in vivo studies, five PDXs models were treated with gimatecan or irinotecan to assess its antitumor activity. Immunohistochemistry staining of Ki-67 was performed after mice were sacrificed. Results Gimatecan inhibited the proliferation of GC cells in vitro in a dose- and time-dependent manner by inducing apoptosis, and gimatecan had greater inhibitory effects than irinotecan. In addition, both gimatecan and irinotecan demonstrated significant tumor growth inhibition in in vivo PDX models. Gimatecan treatment significantly inhibited the expression of DNA TopI, phosphorylated AKT (pAKT), phosphorylated MEK (pMEK) and phosphorylated ERK (pERK). Meanwhile, gimatecan could also activate the JNK2 and p38 MAPK pathway as indicated by upregulation of phosphorylated p38 MAPK (p-p38) and phosphorylated JNK2 (pJNK2). Conclusions For the first time, we have shown that the antitumor activity of gimatecan in GC via suppressing AKT and ERK pathway and activating JNK2 and p38 MAPK pathway, which indicated that gimatecan might be an alternative to irinotecan in the treatment of GC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12967-017-1360-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhua Chen
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Zhentao Liu
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Wenwen Huang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Zhongwu Li
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Pathology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jianling Zou
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Jingyuan Wang
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Xiaoting Lin
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Beifang Li
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Dongshao Chen
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Yanting Hu
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Jiafu Ji
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Gao
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Lin Shen
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
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Martino E, Della Volpe S, Terribile E, Benetti E, Sakaj M, Centamore A, Sala A, Collina S. The long story of camptothecin: From traditional medicine to drugs. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2016; 27:701-707. [PMID: 28073672 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2016.12.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
20-(S)-Camptothecin (CPT) is a natural alkaloid extracted from the bark of Camptotheca acuminata (Chinese happy tree). It acts as a DNA topoisomerase 1 poison with an interesting antitumor activity and its use is limited by low stability and solubility and unpredictable drug-drug interactions. Since the late 20th century, it has been widely used in cancer therapy and, since extraction yields from plant tissues are very low, various synthetic routes have been developed to satisfy the increase in demand for CPT. Moreover, SAR studies have allowed for the development of more potent CPT analogues topotecan and irinotecan. Unfortunately, resistance has already occurred in several tumour lines. Additional studies are needed to better understand the relationship between substituents and resistance, its clinical relevance and the impact of related gene polymorphism. One of the latest research approaches focuses on modifying the delivery mode to improve tumour cell uptake and reduce toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Martino
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via S. Epifanio 14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Serena Della Volpe
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Terribile
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Emanuele Benetti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Mirena Sakaj
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Adriana Centamore
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Sala
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Collina
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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Zhao Y, Lau LF, Dai X, Li B. In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of Gimatecan against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2016; 17:4853-4856. [PMID: 28030910 PMCID: PMC5454685 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2016.17.11.4853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Gimatecan is a new camptothecin (CPT) analogue that inhibits tumor growth by targeting DNA topoisomerase I (TOP I) and introducing strong and persistent DNA cleavage. Anti-tumor activity has been demonstrated with a wide range of solid tumors in previous preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we investigated for the first time the effects of gimatecan on the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Anticancer efficacy of gimatecan were evaluated in a panel of HCC cell lines and corresponding mouse xenograft models. Inhibition of cell proliferation was measured by CellTiter-Glo cell viability assay. In vivo, gimatecan and control preparations were orally administered every four days, for a total of four times. Tumor volume and body weights of the mice were measured twice weekly. Results: In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation showed that gimatecan inhibited the proliferation of a large panel of HCC cell lines in a dose dependent manner, with IC50 values ranging between 12.1~1085.0 nM. In vivo evaluation in mouse xenograft models showed significant antitumor effects of gimatecan at 0.8mg/kg and 0.4mg/kg as compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study suggested that gimatecan may have the potential to be used as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youna Zhao
- Lee's Pharmaceutical (Hong Kong) Limited, Hong Kong,China.
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Liu YQ, Li WQ, Morris-Natschke SL, Qian K, Yang L, Zhu GX, Wu XB, Chen AL, Zhang SY, Nan X, Lee KH. Perspectives on biologically active camptothecin derivatives. Med Res Rev 2015; 35:753-89. [PMID: 25808858 DOI: 10.1002/med.21342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Camptothecins (CPTs) are cytotoxic natural alkaloids that specifically target DNA topoisomerase I. Research on CPTs has undergone a significant evolution from the initial discovery of CPT in the late 1960s through the study of synthetic small-molecule derivatives to investigation of macromolecular constructs and formulations. Over the past years, intensive medicinal chemistry efforts have generated numerous CPT derivatives. Three derivatives, topotecan, irinotecan, and belotecan, are currently prescribed as anticancer drugs, and several related compounds are now in clinical trials. Interest in other biological effects, besides anticancer activity, of CPTs is also growing exponentially, as indicated by the large number of publications on the subject during the last decades. Therefore, the main focus of the present review is to provide an ample but condensed overview on various biological activities of CPT derivatives, in addition to continued up-to-date coverage of anticancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Qian Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China.,Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide Preparation, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an 311300, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Qun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Susan L Morris-Natschke
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599
| | - Keduo Qian
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599
| | - Liu Yang
- Environmental and Municipal Engineering School, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Gao-Xiang Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Bing Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - An-Liang Chen
- Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide Preparation, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an 311300, P. R. China
| | - Shao-Yong Zhang
- Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biopesticide Preparation, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an 311300, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Nan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China
| | - Kuo-Hsiung Lee
- Natural Products Research Laboratories, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599.,Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
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Hsu CW, Zhao J, Huang R, Hsieh JH, Hamm J, Chang X, Houck K, Xia M. Quantitative high-throughput profiling of environmental chemicals and drugs that modulate farnesoid X receptor. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6437. [PMID: 25257666 PMCID: PMC4894417 DOI: 10.1038/srep06437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates the homeostasis of bile acids, lipids, and glucose. Because endogenous chemicals bind and activate FXR, it is important to examine which xenobiotic compounds would disrupt normal receptor function. We used a cell-based human FXR β-lactamase (Bla) reporter gene assay to profile the Tox21 10K compound collection of environmental chemicals and drugs. Structure-activity relationships of FXR-active compounds revealed by this screening were then compared against the androgen receptor, estrogen receptor α, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors δ and γ, and the vitamin D receptor. We identified several FXR-active structural classes including anthracyclines, benzimidazoles, dihydropyridines, pyrethroids, retinoic acids, and vinca alkaloids. Microtubule inhibitors potently decreased FXR reporter gene activity. Pyrethroids specifically antagonized FXR transactivation. Anthracyclines affected reporter activity in all tested assays, suggesting non-specific activity. These results provide important information to prioritize chemicals for further investigation, and suggest possible modes of action of compounds in FXR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wen Hsu
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jinghua Zhao
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Ruili Huang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jui-Hua Hsieh
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Jon Hamm
- Integrated Laboratory Systems, Inc., Morrisville, NC
| | | | - Keith Houck
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Menghang Xia
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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Rodríguez-Berna G, Mangas-Sanjuán V, Gonzalez-Alvarez M, Gonzalez-Alvarez I, García-Giménez JL, Díaz Cabañas MJ, Bermejo M, Corma A. A promising camptothecin derivative: Semisynthesis, antitumor activity and intestinal permeability. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 83:366-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.06.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Christodoulou MS, Zunino F, Zuco V, Borrelli S, Comi D, Fontana G, Martinelli M, Lorens JB, Evensen L, Sironi M, Pieraccini S, Dalla Via L, Gia OM, Passarella D. Camptothecin-7-yl-methanthiole: Semisynthesis and Biological Evaluation. ChemMedChem 2012; 7:2134-43. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201200322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Lukka PB, Paxton JW, Kestell P, Baguley BC. Comparison of a homologous series of benzonaphthyridine anti-cancer agents in mice: divergence between tumour and plasma pharmacokinetics. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2012; 70:151-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-012-1892-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Yu S, Feng X, Luo Y, Lu W. Effective asymmetric synthesis of the key chiral building blocks of 20(S)- and 20(R)-camptothecins. MONATSHEFTE FUR CHEMIE 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s00706-011-0617-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Zheng Z, Aojula H, Clarke D. Reduction of doxorubicin resistance in P-glycoprotein overexpressing cells by hybrid cell-penetrating and drug-binding peptide. J Drug Target 2010; 18:477-87. [PMID: 20088680 DOI: 10.3109/10611860903548347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Drug efflux by the membrane transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) plays a key role in multidrug resistance (MDR). In order to bypass P-gp, thus overcoming MDR, a hybrid peptide comprising a cell penetrating peptide (Tat) and a drug binding motif (DBM) has been developed to noncovalently bind and deliver doxorubicin (Dox) into MDR cells. The uptake of Dox into the leukemia cell line K562 and its P-gp overexpressing subline KD30 increased in the presence of DBM-Tat peptide. Confocal microscopy indicated that DBM-Tat associated Dox was directed to a perinuclear area of KD30 cells, while this was not observed in parent K562 cells. When KD30 cells were pretreated with the endosomotropic agent chloroquine (CLQ), peptide associated Dox redistributed into the cytosol, indicating that endocytosis was the predominant uptake route. Altered drug uptake kinetics observed by cellular accumulation assay also supported an endocytic uptake. In the presence of CLQ, DBM-Tat was able to enhance the cytotoxicity of Dox by 68.4% at 5 microM peptide concentration in KD30 cells but there were only minor effects on Dox cytotoxicity in K562 cells even in the presence of CLQ. Thus, combining Dox with DBM-Tat reduces P-gp mediated drug efflux, without a requirement for drug modification or inhibiting P-gp function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohua Zheng
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
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Frapolli R, Zucchetti M, Sessa C, Marsoni S, Viganò L, Locatelli A, Rulli E, Compagnoni A, Bello E, Pisano C, Carminati P, D'Incalci M. Clinical pharmacokinetics of the new oral camptothecin gimatecan: the inter-patient variability is related to alpha1-acid glycoprotein plasma levels. Eur J Cancer 2009; 46:505-16. [PMID: 20007015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2009.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 11/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY To determine the pharmacokinetics of gimatecan, a camptothecin with a lipophilic substitution in position 7, given orally to patients participating in the phase I study. METHODS Pharmacokinetics was evaluated in 78 patients after oral daily dose for 5 days a week for 1, 2 or 3 weeks by HPLC with a fluorescence detector. RESULTS Gimatecan was mainly present in plasma as lactone (>85%), the active form as DNA-topoisomerase I poison. The AUC(0-24) on the first day of treatment normalised per daily dose (mg/m(2)), ranged from 194 to 2909 ng h/mL/mg/m(2). The half-life was 77.1+/-29.6h, consequently C(max) and AUC rose 3-6-fold after multiple dosing. Multivariate analysis indicated the daily dose (p<0.0001) and the alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein (AGP) plasma levels (p<0.0001) as main predictors of gimatecan AUC(0-24). In the overall analysis, daily dose and AGP plasma levels explained 85% of the deviance. The hydroxy metabolite ST1698 was present in plasma at low levels with AUC values of 5-15% of gimatecan. In mice, orally treated with gimatecan, plasma and tissue levels were 2-fold higher after treatment with a pro-inflammatory agent causing AGP induction. CONCLUSIONS Gimatecan is orally absorbed and its variable plasma levels seem to be related to AGP plasma concentrations. Data obtained in mice, together with the fact that AGP levels largely exceeded gimatecan plasma concentrations, suggest that the increased gimatecan levels in patients with high AGP levels are not related to the binding of the drug to AGP with consequent reduced tissue drug distribution, but possibly to other mechanism associated with inflammation being AGP simply a marker of the inflammation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Frapolli
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, via La Masa 19, 20156 Milan, Italy.
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Dexheimer TS, Gediya LK, Stephen AG, Weidlich I, Antony S, Marchand C, Interthal H, Nicklaus M, Fisher RJ, Njar VC, Pommier Y. 4-Pregnen-21-ol-3,20-dione-21-(4-bromobenzenesulfonate) (NSC 88915) and related novel steroid derivatives as tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase (Tdp1) inhibitors. J Med Chem 2009; 52:7122-31. [PMID: 19883083 PMCID: PMC2784989 DOI: 10.1021/jm901061s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1) is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of 3'-phosphotyrosyl bonds. Such linkages form in vivo when topoisomerase I (Top1) processes DNA. For this reason, Tdp1 has been implicated in the repair of irreversible Top1-DNA covalent complexes. Tdp1 inhibitors have been regarded as potential therapeutics in combination with Top1 inhibitors, such as the camptothecin derivatives, topotecan, and irinotecan, which are used to treat human cancers. Using a novel high-throughput screening assay, we have identified the C21-substituted progesterone derivative, NSC 88915 (1), as a potential Tdp1 inhibitor. Secondary screening and cross-reactivity studies with related DNA processing enzymes confirmed that compound 1 possesses specific Tdp1 inhibitory activity. Deconstruction of compound 1 into discrete functional groups reveals that both components are required for inhibition of Tdp1 activity. Moreover, the synthesis of analogues of compound 1 has provided insight into the structural requirements for the inhibition of Tdp1. Surface plasmon resonance shows that compound 1 binds to Tdp1, whereas an inactive analogue fails to interact with the enzyme. On the basis of molecular docking and mechanistic studies, we propose that these compounds are competitive inhibitors, which mimics the oligonucleotide-peptide Tdp1 substrate. These steroid derivatives represent a novel chemotype and provide a new scaffold for developing small molecule inhibitors of Tdp1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S. Dexheimer
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Lalji K. Gediya
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and the Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jefferson School of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, 130 South 9 Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Andrew G. Stephen
- Protein Chemistry Laboratory, Advanced Technology Program, SAIC-Frederick, Inc., NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD 21702
| | - Iwona Weidlich
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702
| | - Smitha Antony
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Christophe Marchand
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | | | - Marc Nicklaus
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702
| | - Robert J. Fisher
- Protein Chemistry Laboratory, Advanced Technology Program, SAIC-Frederick, Inc., NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD 21702
| | - Vincent C. Njar
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and the Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jefferson School of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, 130 South 9 Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Yves Pommier
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
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Zhu AX, Ready N, Clark JW, Safran H, Amato A, Salem N, Pace S, He X, Zvereva N, Lynch TJ, Ryan DP, Supko JG. Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of gimatecan given orally once a week for 3 of 4 weeks in patients with advanced solid tumors. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 15:374-81. [PMID: 19118068 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A phase I study was conducted to determine the dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of gimatecan, a lipophilic camptothecin analogue, administered orally once a week for 3 weeks. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Adult patients with advanced solid tumors with good performance status and adequate hematologic, hepatic, and renal function were eligible for the study. The plasma pharmacokinetics of the drug was characterized during the initial 28-day cycle. RESULTS A total of 33 patients were evaluated at 7 dose levels ranging from 0.27 to 3.20 mg/m(2)/wk. Anemia, fatigue, neutropenia, nausea, and vomiting were the principal toxicities. DLTs experienced by 3 of 7 patients in dose level 7 (3.20 mg/m(2)) were grade 2 hyperbilirubinemia and grade 3 to 4 fatigue. DLT (anorexia and nausea) occurred in only 1 of 11 patients evaluated at the MTD of 2.40 mg/m(2). There were no objective responses, although disease stabilization was observed in 4 patients. Gimatecan has a very long apparent biological half-life (mean +/- SD, 77 +/- 37 h) and exists in plasma almost entirely as the pharmacologically active intact lactone form. At the MTD, mean peak concentrations of the drug in plasma ranged from 67 to 82 ng/mL for the 3 weekly doses and the mean concentration 7 days after dosing was 15 +/- 18 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS Administration of gimatecan orally once a week at doses that are well tolerated provides continuous exposure to potentially effective plasma concentrations of the biologically active form of the drug. This regimen deserves further evaluation to define its antitumor activity in specific tumor types either alone or in combination with other agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew X Zhu
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.
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Beretta GL, Perego P, Zunino F. Targeting topoisomerase I: molecular mechanisms and cellular determinants of response to topoisomerase I inhibitors. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2008; 12:1243-56. [PMID: 18781823 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.12.10.1243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Topoisomerase I is required for DNA relaxation during critical cellular functions. The identification of camptothecins as specific enzyme inhibitors and their clinical efficacy have stimulated extensive efforts to exploit topoisomerase I as a tumor target and explain the putative mechanisms of antitumor-specific action. OBJECTIVE This review provides an overview of the recent achievements in the development of topoisomerase I inhibitors and in the explanation of the biological pathways involved in tumor response. RESULTS/CONCLUSION In spite of the difficulty to identify novel topoisomerase I inhibitors with improved pharmacological properties, a growing body of evidence supports the possibility of optimizing the therapeutic profile of available agents. The explanation of defense mechanisms and the molecular determinants of tumor cell response is expected to provide a basis for the design of combination approaches for optimization of topoisomerase I inhibitors-based therapy.
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Pisano C, De Cesare M, Beretta GL, Zuco V, Pratesi G, Penco S, Vesci L, Foderà R, Ferrara FF, Guglielmi MB, Carminati P, Dallavalle S, Morini G, Merlini L, Orlandi A, Zunino F. Preclinical profile of antitumor activity of a novel hydrophilic camptothecin, ST1968. Mol Cancer Ther 2008; 7:2051-9. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-08-0266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Joguparthi V, Xiang TX, Anderson BD. Liposome transport of hydrophobic drugs: gel phase lipid bilayer permeability and partitioning of the lactone form of a hydrophobic camptothecin, DB-67. J Pharm Sci 2008; 97:400-20. [PMID: 17879989 DOI: 10.1002/jps.21125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The design of liposomal delivery systems for hydrophobic drug molecules having improved encapsulation efficiency and enhanced drug retention would be highly desirable. Unfortunately, the poor aqueous solubility and high membrane binding affinity of hydrophobic drugs necessitates extensive validation of experimental methods to determine both liposome loading and permeability and thus the development of a quantitative understanding of the factors governing the encapsulation and retention/release of such compounds has been slow. This report describes an efflux transport method using dynamic dialysis to study the liposomal membrane permeability of hydrophobic compounds. A mathematical model has been developed to calculate liposomal membrane permeability coefficients of hydrophobic compounds from dynamic dialysis experiments and partitioning experiments using equilibrium dialysis. Also reported is a simple method to study the release kinetics of liposome encapsulated camptothecin lactone in plasma by comparing the hydrolysis kinetics of liposome entrapped versus free drug. DB-67, a novel hydrophobic camptothecin analogue has been used as a model permeant to validate these methods. Theoretical estimates of DB-67 permeability obtained from the bulk solubility diffusion model and the "barrier-domain" solubility diffusion model are compared to the experimentally observed value. The use of dynamic dialysis in drug release studies of liposome and other nanoparticle formulations is further discussed and experimental artifacts that can arise without adequate validation are illustrated through simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Joguparthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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Joguparthi V, Anderson BD. Liposomal delivery of hydrophobic weak acids: enhancement of drug retention using a high intraliposomal pH. J Pharm Sci 2008; 97:433-54. [PMID: 17918731 DOI: 10.1002/jps.21135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Clinical development of highly potent lipophilic neutral camptothecins has been impeded by the poor solubility, stability, and nonspecific toxicity of these compounds. Liposomal encapsulation offers a promising formulation route for tumor site-specific delivery of these novel drug candidates. However, the development of formulation strategies for liposomal loading and retention of hydrophobic drugs such as the neutral camptothecins has been lacking. In the studies presented here, we explored the potential of a trans-bilayer pH gradient strategy for prolonging the liposome retention of DB-67, a novel lipophilic camptothecin that can undergo lactone ring-opening to form a hydrophobic weak acid. The liposome membrane permeability of DB-67 was obtained as a function of pH in aqueous buffers. A permeability model was developed and liposome membrane permeability was shown to be controlled by the fraction of unbound neutral lactone entrapped in the vesicles. Liposome membrane permeability of DB-67 was also studied under physiological conditions. The high membrane partitioning of DB-67 in the intraliposomal microenvironment was found to shift the equilibrium between lactone and carboxylate towards the lactone species resulting in a faster than desired drug release under physiological conditions. The effectiveness of the pH gradient strategy was further reduced under physiological conditions by the rapid loss of trans-membrane pH gradients due to CO(2) uptake. Simulations were conducted to explore the role of membrane binding, intravesicular pH, and carbonate buffer concentration in successful utilization of the pH gradient strategy for hydrophobic weak acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Joguparthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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31
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Abstract
The inhibition of DNA topoisomerase I (Top1) has proven to be a successful approach in the design of anticancer agents. However, despite the clinical successes of the camptothecin derivatives, a significant need for less toxic and more chemically stable Top1 inhibitors still persists. Here, we describe one of the most frequently used protocols to identify novel Top1 inhibitors. These methods use uniquely 3'-radiolabeled DNA substrates and denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis to provide evidence for the Top1-mediated DNA cleaving activity of potential Top1 inhibitors. These assays allow comparison of the effectiveness of different drugs in stabilizing the Top1-DNA intermediate or cleavage (cleavable) complex. A variation on these assays is also presented, which provides a suitable system for determining whether the inhibitor blocks the forward cleavage or religation reactions by measuring the reversibility of the drug-induced Top1-DNA cleavage complexes. This entire protocol can be completed in approximately 2 d.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Dexheimer
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Ismael GFV, Rosa DD, Mano MS, Awada A. Novel cytotoxic drugs: old challenges, new solutions. Cancer Treat Rev 2007; 34:81-91. [PMID: 17905518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2007.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2007] [Revised: 07/26/2007] [Accepted: 08/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of cytotoxic agents was revolutionary for anticancer therapy in the last century, improving survival rates and the quality of life of patients with different types of tumours. However, the development of agents that combine efficacy, safety and convenience remains a great challenge, due to the narrow therapeutic index of some drugs, the fact that they may damage not only cancer cells, but also normal and healthy tissue and the occurrence of resistance, limiting anticancer efficacy. Novel cytotoxic agents have brought certain advantages over the conventional ones, such as shorter administration time, mechanisms to overcome drug resistance and lower incidence of adverse events. In this review we highlight the development of promising novel cytotoxic drugs that will hopefully offer not only gains in efficacy, but also in safety, tolerability and convenience in the treatment of patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo F V Ismael
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jules Bordet Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
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Beretta GL, Zunino F. Relevance of extracellular and intracellular interactions of camptothecins as determinants of antitumor activity. Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 74:1437-44. [PMID: 17540344 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2007.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2007] [Accepted: 04/30/2007] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Camptothecins are potent antitumor agents that stabilize the covalent binding of topoisomerase I to DNA forming a reversible ternary complex which, following collision with the replication forks, converts the single-strand breaks into lethal double-strand breaks. This cytotoxic mechanism has been originally ascribed to the closed lactone form, because opening of the lactone ring resulted in loss of antitumor activity. Since the lipophilic lactone favours passive diffusion into the cancer cells, the stability of the closed form is expected to be predictive for activity. Thus, the in vivo pharmacological behavior of camptothecins, which is dependent on the pH-dependent dynamics, is likely a critical determinant of their antitumor efficacy and therapeutic index. The physicochemical properties could influence a number of cellular and in vivo interactions, including stability of the ternary DNA-enzyme-drug complex, binding to serum proteins, recognition by transport systems. These interactions are also implicated in the processes responsible of toxic side effects and drug resistance which are major limitations of the efficacy of camptothecin-based therapy. A number of strategies have been developed to overcome the limitations associated with the peculiar in vivo reactivity and the reversibility of drug-target interaction. Modifications with hydrophilic or lipophilic substituents at specific positions may have a variable (and somewhat opposite) influence on interaction with the intracellular target and plasma proteins and on recognition by membrane transporters. Here, we highlight the interactions of camptothecins which could be exploited to optimize therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luca Beretta
- Department of Experimental Oncology and Laboratories, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Huang M, Gao H, Chen Y, Zhu H, Cai Y, Zhang X, Miao Z, Jiang H, Zhang J, Shen H, Lin L, Lu W, Ding J. Chimmitecan, a novel 9-substituted camptothecin, with improved anticancer pharmacologic profiles in vitro and in vivo. Clin Cancer Res 2007; 13:1298-307. [PMID: 17287296 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-06-1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate antitumor activities and pharmacologic profiles of chimmitecan, a novel 9-small-alkyl-substituted lipophilic camptothecin, in comparison with irinotecan (CPT-11) and topotecan. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The in vitro cytotoxities of chimmitecan in human tumor cell lines and multidrug resistance (MDR) cells were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and sulforhodamin B assays. DNA relaxation, cleavage assays, and cellular band depletion assay were combined to delineate its effects on topoisomerase I. DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis were assessed using comet assay, flow cytometry, and DNA ladder analysis, respectively. The in vivo antitumor activities were measured in nude mice bearing human tumor xenografts. RESULTS Chimmitecan displayed more potent cytotoxicity than SN38 and topotecan. Neither a cross-resistance to chimmitecan in MDR cells nor an influence of human serum albumin in its cytotoxity was observed. Chimmitecan exhibited comparable effects on topoisomerase I compared with the reference drugs, including inhibiting topoisomerase I catalytic activity and trapping and stabilizing covalent topoisomerase I-DNA complexes. Furthermore, nanomolar levels of chimmitecan caused impressive DNA damage, G(2)-M phase arrest, and apoptosis in human leukemia HL60 cells. I.v. administration of chimmitecan inhibited the growth of HCT-116, MDA-MB-435, BEL-7402, and A549 human carcinoma xenografts in nude mice, with greater potency than CPT-11 against the latter two tumors models. Chimmitecan presented potent efficacy in A549 tumor model when given orally. CONCLUSIONS Chimmitecan is a potent inhibitor of topoisomerase I and displays outstanding activity in vitro and in vivo. The substitution at the 9-position benefits chimmitecan a salient anti-MDR activity, stability in human serum albumin, improved solubility, and oral availability, which might favorably promise its therapeutic potential in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Huang
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
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Sessa C, Cresta S, Cerny T, Baselga J, Rota Caremoli E, Malossi A, Hess D, Trigo J, Zucchetti M, D'Incalci M, Zaniboni A, Capri G, Gatti B, Carminati P, Zanna C, Marsoni S, Gianni L. Concerted escalation of dose and dosing duration in a phase I study of the oral camptothecin gimatecan (ST1481) in patients with advanced solid tumors. Ann Oncol 2006; 18:561-8. [PMID: 17150998 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdl418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gimatecan is an orally bioavailable camptothecin analogue with preclinical findings of promising antitumor activity. A phase I design of concerted dose escalation and dosing duration was implemented to assess the potential schedule dependency of tolerability that emerged from animal studies. PATIENTS AND METHODS Gimatecan was given daily for five consecutive days per week for 1, 2 or 3 weeks every 28 days. Plasma levels of total gimatecan were measured on the first and the last day of treatment in each schedule. RESULTS Overall, 108 patients were treated with 0.8-7.2 mg/m(2) of gimatecan per cycle. The main toxicity was myelosuppression with dose-limiting thrombocytopenia. In the 1-, 2- and 3-week schedule, the maximum tolerated doses were 4.5, 5.6 and 6.4 mg/m(2). Diarrhea and asthenia were of low grade and of minor clinical relevance, while the higher incidence of nausea and vomiting in the 1-week schedule required the use of antiemetic prophylaxis. Due to the prolonged half-life (approximately 77 h), the plasma concentration of gimatecan increased from the first to the last day of dosing. Six partial responses were observed. CONCLUSIONS Tolerability of gimatecan was schedule dependent. Further testing with schedules taking into account its long persistence in human plasma is worthwhile.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sessa
- Istituto Oncologico della Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona, Switzerland
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36
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Abstract
The only approved camptothecins for use in patients to date (topotecan and irinotecan) are delivered intravenously. Thus, an oral camptothecin analogue that would provide the convenience of oral delivery with the flexibility for a variety of prolonged treatment schedules would be advantageous. Rubitecan is an orally available camptothecin analogue that also has potential for delivery transdermally or by inhalation. Like all of the camptothecins, its antitumour activity is mediated through the inhibition of DNA topoisomerase I, which is involved in relaxing supercoiled DNA, which is important for the process of DNA replication and RNA transcription. Rubitecan exists in equilibrium as 9-nitro-camptothecin (9-NC) and 9-amino-camptothecin (9-AC), a metabolite that is thought to be active although it failed in clinical trials. Both 9-NC and 9-AC contain a lactone ring that is required for optimal activity with the carboxylic acid (open ring) forms being significantly less active or inactive. A more acidic environment favours the lactone ring structure, whereas neutral or basic conditions favour the conversion to the carboxylic acid form. In addition to issues of lactone ring stability at physiological pH (true for all of the camptothecin analogues), there is pharmacokinetic variability that has had to be dealt with during the development of rubitecan. Preclinically, rubitecan has shown activity against a broad spectrum of tumour types in in vitro and in vivo human tumour xenograft models. Frustratingly, the level of activity of an agent in preclinical models has not always translated into similar activity against human tumours in clinical trials. To date, with the exception of pancreatic and possibly ovarian cancer, rubitecan has had disappointing activity against a number of other solid tumours in relatively small Phase I/II trials; however, it has shown sufficient activity against pancreatic cancer, a malignancy that remains difficult to treat, to continue to be evaluated in clinical trials for this indication. Results of clinical trials in the next few years should determine whether rubitecan can find a role in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Clark
- Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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37
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De Cesare M, Beretta GL, Tinelli S, Benedetti V, Pratesi G, Penco S, Dallavalle S, Merlini L, Pisano C, Carminati P, Zunino F. Preclinical efficacy of ST1976, a novel camptothecin analog of the 7-oxyiminomethyl series. Biochem Pharmacol 2006; 73:656-64. [PMID: 17169332 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2006.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2006] [Revised: 11/02/2006] [Accepted: 11/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In previous studies, we have documented the potential therapeutic advantages of camptothecin analogs modified at the 7-position, i.e., 7-oxyiminomethyl derivatives. The present study was performed to explore the therapeutic potential of novel hydrophilic derivatives of this series. With one exception (ST1976), the tested camptothecins exhibited a reduced antiproliferative activity and all compounds retained ability to stabilize the topoisomerase I-mediated cleavable complex. The two analogs (ST1976 and ST1968) characterized by the presence of a free amino group in the side chain also exhibited the formation of persistent cleavable complexes. The most potent compound, ST1976 (7-(4-aminobenzyl)oxyiminomethylcamptothecin), was selected for evaluation of its preclinical profile of antitumor activity in a large panel of human tumor xenografts. As expected on the basis of the introduction of a hydrophilic substituent, the novel camptothecin was a substrate for BCRP. However, in spite of an apparent recognition by BCRP, ST1976 was effective following oral administration. The antitumor activity was evaluated using various schedules and routes of administration (i.v. and p.o.). ST1976 exhibited a remarkable activity in all tested tumors and was effective in a number of tumors which are resistant to irinotecan. The biological and pharmacological profile of ST1976 supports the therapeutic potential of camptothecins containing hydrophilic substituents at the 7-position. On the basis of its excellent activity in preclinical models, ST1976 is a promising candidate for clinical development.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer has changed considerably in the past decade. This paper reviews the most significant changes seen in chemotherapy and the most promising new agents in development for this disease. RECENT FINDINGS Chemotherapy prolongs survival and improves quality of life in patients with a good performance status and appears to alleviate disease-related symptoms in patients with a lower performance status. Platinum-based regimens became standard; none of the third-generation drug combinations seemed to be superior to the others. Nonplatinum combinations are reasonable alternatives now and offer a better toxicity profile in certain populations. Attempts to add molecular-targeted therapy to combination chemotherapy have failed except for bevacizumab. New compounds such as pemetrexed, bortezomib, TLK286, bevacizumab, and the epothilones are currently being evaluated in non-small cell lung cancer. SUMMARY Management of non-small cell lung cancer has improved considerably in the past decade. The overall benefit of chemotherapy over supportive care has been shown, platinum-based doublets have been established, nonplatinum regimens have been developed, chemotherapy has been used more broadly in subgroups of patients who have been previously neglected, and a shorter chemotherapy duration has been shown to be equally effective. After hitting a plateau in the benefit of chemotherapy, new drugs with novel action mechanisms such as the ones described here offer hope to improve therapy for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis E Raez
- University of Miami School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Mount Sinai Cancer Center, Florida, USA.
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Zhao YX, Gao JQ, Qiao HL, Chen HL, Liang WQ. Development and validation of a sensitive reversed-phase HPLC method to determine intracellular accumulation of hydroxycamptothecin. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2006; 41:1007-10. [PMID: 16497465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2006.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2005] [Revised: 12/27/2005] [Accepted: 01/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The intracellular accumulation of anti-cancer agents strongly influences the efficiency of chemotherapy for cancer. In the present study, a simple, rapid, sensitive reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated to determine hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) in Eca109 cells. HCPT in cellular lysis solution were measured by RP-HPLC with a C18 column after extraction with ethyl acetate. The mobile phase contained 0.1% triethylamine-phosphoric acid buffer (pH 3.0) and acetonitrile (75:25, v/v). Fluorescence detector with excitation and emission wavelengths of 382 and 528 nm was used for determination of HCPT. The calibration curve was linear from 2 to 100 ng/ml with correlation coefficient of 0.9999, while the limit of quantification is 2 ng/ml. The recovery of assay was between 86.5 and 105.2%. The intra- and inter-day coefficients of variation were less than 10% (R.S.D.). Furthermore, the validated method was used to determine the accumulation of HCPT after incubating the liposomal formulation of HCPT and HCPT for injection with the intact cells. HCPT liposomes showed higher intracellular accumulation of HCPT at different incubation times compared with that of conventional HCPT injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Xing Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 353 Yan'an Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310031, PR China
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Wakelee HA, Sikic BI. Activity of Novel Cytotoxic Agents in Lung Cancer: Epothilones and Topoisomerase I Inhibitors. Clin Lung Cancer 2005; 7 Suppl 1:S6-12. [PMID: 16159420 DOI: 10.3816/clc.2005.s.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of lung cancer--small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)--is a significant challenge in oncology. The best reported median survival remains near 1 year in advanced NSCLC despite several decades of steady improvement and extensive research with traditional chemotherapy drugs and novel compounds targeted to different aspects of tumor cell growth and function (such as the epidermal growth factor receptor). Extensive-stage SCLC survival is only slightly better. Novel "targeted" therapeutic agents hold promise, but cytotoxic therapy remains the backbone of treatment. Many new cytotoxic agents are currently in development. In this review, we will focus on 2 classes of cytotoxins: epothilones and topoisomerase I inhibitors. Epothilones are microtubule stabilizers with a mechanism of action similar to that of the taxanes, with preclinical activity superior to that of the taxanes. Phase I trials have been completed for patupilone and ixabepilone, and there are encouraging phase II data with ixabepilone in NSCLC. A phase II trial of patupilone is ongoing. The camptothecins, which are topoisomerase I inhibitors, have a long history in the treatment of lung cancer, but the currently available drugs, topotecan and irinotecan, have limitations. Gimatecan and other novel camptothecins have superior preclinical activity and promising phase I/II data in NSCLC and SCLC.
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Abstract
Among several drug delivery systems, liposomal encapsulated anti-cancer agents represent an advanced and versatile technology. Several formulations of liposomal anthracyclines are approved, e.g. for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer (pegylated and non-pegylated liposomal doxorubicin) or AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (pegylated liposomal doxorubicin and liposomal daunorubicin). Meanwhile, virtually all anti-cancer drugs have been encapsulated in liposomes using different technologies. This review will summarize preclinical and clinical data of approved and exemplary emerging liposomal anti-cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf-Dieter Hofheinz
- Onkologisches Zentrum, III. Medizinische Klinik, Fakultät für Klinische Medizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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Reni M, Mazza E, Tosoni A, Brandes AA. Novel therapeutics in adult malignant brain gliomas. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2005; 14:643-58. [PMID: 16004593 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.14.6.643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are the most frequent and most malignant intracranial neoplasms. In spite of extensive clinical trials and irrespective of aggressive surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the outcome is very poor and limited progress has been made in the last three decades. Several innovative targeted molecular therapies that are tailored to deregulate the signalling pathways involved in malignant progression have opened new and challenging treatment opportunities and offer hope for an improved outcome in the future. Furthermore, in the field of conventional cytotoxic agents, new drugs or combinations are continuously investigated, widening the therapeutic armamentarium. This paper reviews this rapidly evolving field, focuses on the results of the use of these agents in clinical trials and discusses the main methodological challenges that need to be dealt with before relevant progress in the outcome of malignant gliomas can be yielded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Reni
- Department of Oncology, San Raffaele H. Scientific Institute via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan.
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Glaberman U, Rabinowitz I, Verschraegen CF. Alternative administration of camptothecin analogues. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2005; 2:323-33. [PMID: 16296757 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2.2.323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In order to improve the therapeutic index of camptothecin (CPT) analogues, alternative administration of CPT analogues is being evaluated. Topotecan, irinotecan, rubitecan, lurtotecan and 9-aminocamptothecin have been administered orally with response rates equivalent to that seen after intravenous administration, where applicable. Oral availability and administration of some of the newer CPT analogues, including diflomotecan (BN80915) and grimatecan (ST1481), have also shown promising results. Aerosolisation of liposomal 9-nitrocamptothecin has been studied in patients with advanced malignancies involving the lung, demonstrating systemic antitumour activity. Intrathecal administration of topotecan has been studied in children with refractory neoplastic meningitis. It is well tolerated and associated with some antitumour activity. Intraperitoneal administration of topotecan as consolidation therapy in patients with ovarian cancer has shown promising results. Transdermal administration of rubitecan has been studied in mice. So far, no CPT has been approved for an alternative route of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursa Glaberman
- University of New Mexico Cancer Research and Treatment Center, Albuquerque, 87131, USA
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De Cesare M, Pratesi G, Veneroni S, Bergottini R, Zunino F. Efficacy of the novel camptothecin gimatecan against orthotopic and metastatic human tumor xenograft models. Clin Cancer Res 2005; 10:7357-64. [PMID: 15534112 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-04-0962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gimatecan, a novel oral lipophilic camptothecin characterized by favorable features at molecular/cellular level and by a promising profile of preclinical activity, is currently in clinical phase I/II. The aim of the study was to additionally investigate the therapeutic potential of the drug in human tumor xenografts growing in different organs as models representative of tumor growth in the clinical setting. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The models include two orthotopic central nervous system tumors, two melanomas growing intracranially, and an ovarian carcinoma growing i.p. In addition, gimatecan was tested against experimental lung metastases of two tumor types (lung and ovarian carcinomas). Gimatecan was delivered by oral gavage according to various schedules (daily or intermittent). The time (in days) mice required to show evident signs of disease was used as end point for drug efficacy. RESULTS Gimatecan was highly effective in delaying disease manifestations in all tumor systems investigated. In the intracranially growing tumors, a significant time increase (versus control mice) was achieved by the drug administered according to all of the schedules. In addition, almost all treated mice were alive and tumor-free at the end of the experiment in the metastatic models and in the ascitic ovarian tumor. The daily prolonged treatment schedule was the best one. CONCLUSIONS In all tumor systems investigated, including orthotopic tumor growth models and lung metastases, the oral administration of gimatecan showed a therapeutic benefit in terms of survival increase. The good oral availability allowed a prolonged daily treatment regimen, which seems the most promising to exploit the therapeutic potential of the drug.
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45
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Butler MS. Natural products to drugs: natural product derived compounds in clinical trials. Nat Prod Rep 2005; 22:162-95. [PMID: 15806196 DOI: 10.1039/b402985m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 339] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Natural product and natural product-derived compounds that are being evaluated in clinical trials or in registration (current 31 December 2004) have been reviewed. Natural product derived drugs launched in the United States of America, Europe and Japan since 1998 and new natural product templates discovered since 1990 are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Butler
- MerLion Pharmaceuticals, 1 Science Park Road, The Capricorn #05-01, Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528.
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46
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Ulivi P, Zoli W, Fabbri F, Brigliadori G, Ricotti L, Tesei A, Rosetti M, De Cesare M, Beretta GL, Corna E, Supino R, Zunino F. Cellular basis of antiproliferative and antitumor activity of the novel camptothecin derivative, gimatecan, in bladder carcinoma models. Neoplasia 2005; 7:152-61. [PMID: 15802020 PMCID: PMC1501124 DOI: 10.1593/neo.04397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2004] [Revised: 09/14/2004] [Accepted: 09/14/2004] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the cellular/molecular basis of the activity of a novel lipophilic camptothecin, gimatecan (ST1481), against slowly proliferating cells, we performed a comparative study of topotecan and gimatecan in human bladder cancer models (HT1376 and MCR). Gimatecan was significantly more effective than topotecan in inhibiting the growth of HT1376 tumor, thus reflecting antiproliferative potency. In both HT1376 and MCR cells, gimatecan caused a persistent S-phase arrest, indicating an efficient DNA damage checkpoint. This response was consistent with a cytostatic effect, because no evidence of apoptosis was detected. In contrast to gimatecan, topotecan at equitoxic concentrations caused an early and persistent downregulation of topoisomerase I. Modulation of protein level could not be solely ascribed to the proteasome-mediated degradation of the enzyme because the proteasome inhibitor PS341 sensitized MCR but not HT1376 cells to camptothecins, suggesting alternative mechanisms of drug-induced topoisomerase I downregulation. Indeed, the two camptothecins caused a differential inhibition of topoisomerase I transcription, which is more marked in topotecan-treated cells. The HT1376 model was more sensitive to this immediate decrease of mRNA level. Our data document a marked antitumor activity of gimatecan against a bladder carcinoma model. A limited downregulation of topoisomerase I by gimatecan provides additional insights into the cellular basis of drug potency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Anna Tesei
- Istituto Oncologico Romagnolo, Forlì, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Rosanna Supino
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Franco Zunino
- Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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