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Strobl MAR, Martin AL, West J, Gallaher J, Robertson-Tessi M, Gatenby R, Wenham R, Maini PK, Damaghi M, Anderson ARA. To modulate or to skip: De-escalating PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy in ovarian cancer using adaptive therapy. Cell Syst 2024; 15:510-525.e6. [PMID: 38772367 PMCID: PMC11190943 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Toxicity and emerging drug resistance pose important challenges in poly-adenosine ribose polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) maintenance therapy of ovarian cancer. We propose that adaptive therapy, which dynamically reduces treatment based on the tumor dynamics, might alleviate both issues. Utilizing in vitro time-lapse microscopy and stepwise model selection, we calibrate and validate a differential equation mathematical model, which we leverage to test different plausible adaptive treatment schedules. Our model indicates that adjusting the dosage, rather than skipping treatments, is more effective at reducing drug use while maintaining efficacy due to a delay in cell kill and a diminishing dose-response relationship. In vivo pilot experiments confirm this conclusion. Although our focus is toxicity mitigation, reducing drug use may also delay resistance. This study enhances our understanding of PARPi treatment scheduling and illustrates the first steps in developing adaptive therapies for new treatment settings. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian A R Strobl
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA; Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Alexandra L Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA; Division of Gynecologic Oncology, West Cancer Center and Research Institute, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey West
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jill Gallaher
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Mark Robertson-Tessi
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Robert Gatenby
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA; Cancer Biology and Evolution Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Robert Wenham
- Gynecologic Oncology Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Philip K Maini
- Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Mehdi Damaghi
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Medicine, SUNY, Brookhaven, NY, USA; Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook Medicine, SUNY, Brookhaven, NY, USA.
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Eissa I, Yousef RG, Elkaeed EB, Alsfouk AA, Husein DZ, Ibrahim IM, Ismail A, Elkady H, Metwaly AM. New Theobromine Apoptotic Analogue with Anticancer Potential Targeting the EGFR Protein: Computational and In Vitro Studies. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:15861-15881. [PMID: 38617602 PMCID: PMC11007702 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to design and examine a novel epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor with apoptotic properties by utilizing the essential structural characteristics of existing EGFR inhibitors as a foundation. METHOD The study began with the natural alkaloid theobromine and developed a new semisynthetic derivative (T-1-PMPA). Computational ADMET assessments were conducted first to evaluate its anticipated safety and general drug-likeness. Deep density functional theory (DFT) computations were initially performed to validate the three-dimensional (3D) structure and reactivity of T-1-PMPA. Molecular docking against the EGFR proteins was conducted to investigate T-1-PMPA's binding affinity and inhibitory potential. Additional molecular dynamics (MD) simulations over 200 ns along with MM-GPSA, PLIP, and principal component analysis of trajectories (PCAT) experiments were employed to verify the binding and inhibitory properties of T-1-PMPA. Afterward, T-1-PMPA was semisynthesized to validate the proposed design and in silico findings through several in vitro examinations. RESULTS DFT studies indicated T-1-PMPA's reactivity using electrostatic potential, global reactive indices, and total density of states. Molecular docking, MD simulations, MM-GPSA, PLIP, and ED suggested the binding and inhibitory properties of T-1-PMPA against the EGFR protein. The in silico ADMET predicted T-1-PMPA's safety and general drug-likeness. In vitro experiments demonstrated that T-1-PMPA effectively inhibited EGFRWT and EGFR790m, with IC50 values of 86 and 561 nM, respectively, compared to Erlotinib (31 and 456 nM). T-1-PMPA also showed significant suppression of the proliferation of HepG2 and MCF7 malignant cell lines, with IC50 values of 3.51 and 4.13 μM, respectively. The selectivity indices against the two cancer cell lines indicated the overall safety of T-1-PMPA. Flow cytometry confirmed the apoptotic effects of T-1-PMPA by increasing the total percentage of apoptosis to 42% compared to 31, and 3% in Erlotinib-treated and control cells, respectively. The qRT-PCR analysis further supported the apoptotic effects by revealing significant increases in the levels of Casp3 and Casp9. Additionally, T-1-PMPA controlled the levels of TNFα and IL2 by 74 and 50%, comparing Erlotinib's values (84 and 74%), respectively. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our study's findings suggest the potential of T-1-PMPA as a promising apoptotic anticancer lead compound targeting the EGFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim
H. Eissa
- Pharmaceutical
Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy
(Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Reda G. Yousef
- Pharmaceutical
Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy
(Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Eslam B. Elkaeed
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aisha A. Alsfouk
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dalal Z. Husein
- Chemistry
Department, Faculty of Science, New Valley
University, El-Kharja 72511, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M. Ibrahim
- Biophysics
Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Biochemistry
and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Hazem Elkady
- Pharmaceutical
Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy
(Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Metwaly
- Pharmacognosy
and Medicinal Plants Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
- Biopharmaceutical
Products Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Research Institute, City of Scientific Research
and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria 21934, Egypt
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3
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Eissa IH, Yousef RG, Elkady H, Elkaeed EB, Alsfouk BA, Husein DZ, Asmaey MA, Ibrahim IM, Metwaly AM. Anti-breast cancer potential of a new xanthine derivative: In silico, antiproliferative, selectivity, VEGFR-2 inhibition, apoptosis induction and migration inhibition studies. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154894. [PMID: 37857034 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The overexpression of VEGFR-2 receptors in breast cancer provides a valuable approach to anticancer strategies. Targeting VEGFR-2, a new semisynthetic compound (T-1-MCPAB) has been designed. METHODS Computational methods (ADMET, toxicity, DFT, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulations, MM-GBSA, PLIP, and PCAT) were conducted. In addition to the semi-synthesis, in vitro studies (anti-VEGFR-2, anti-proliferative, flow cytometry, and wound scratch assay) were employed. RESULTS ADME and toxicity profiles of T-1-MCPAB studies indicated its overall drug-likeness showing results much better than Sorafenib. Then, T-1-MCPAB's exact 3D structure, stability, and reactivity were evoked by the DFT calculations. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, MM-GPSA, PLIP, and PCAT studies denoted the correct binding and inhibiting potential of T-1-MCPAB, towards VEGFR-2 protein. After the semisynthesis, T-1-MCPAB inhibited VEGFR-2 with an IC50 of 0.135 µM, which was comparable to sorafenib's IC50 of 0.0591 µM. T-1-MCPAB also showed a notable performance against MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 30.95 µM and 63.64 µM, respectively, and had high selectivity index values of 3.7 and 1.8, respectively. Furthermore, T-1-MCPAB influenced early and late apoptosis and significantly decreased the potential of MCF7 cells to heal and migrate. CONCLUSION T-1-MCPAB is a promising VEGFR-2 inhibitor with potential for breast cancer treatment. Further chemical and biological studies are needed to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim H Eissa
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt.
| | - Reda G Yousef
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt.
| | - Hazem Elkady
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt.
| | - Eslam B Elkaeed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bshra A Alsfouk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Dalal Z Husein
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, New Valley University, El-Kharja 72511, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa A Asmaey
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, 71524 Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Ibrahim M Ibrahim
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University. Cairo 12613, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Metwaly
- Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt; Biopharmaceutical Products Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria, Egypt.
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Strobl MAR, Gallaher J, Robertson-Tessi M, West J, Anderson ARA. Treatment of evolving cancers will require dynamic decision support. Ann Oncol 2023; 34:867-884. [PMID: 37777307 PMCID: PMC10688269 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer research has traditionally focused on developing new agents, but an underexplored question is that of the dose and frequency of existing drugs. Based on the modus operandi established in the early days of chemotherapies, most drugs are administered according to predetermined schedules that seek to deliver the maximum tolerated dose and are only adjusted for toxicity. However, we believe that the complex, evolving nature of cancer requires a more dynamic and personalized approach. Chronicling the milestones of the field, we show that the impact of schedule choice crucially depends on processes driving treatment response and failure. As such, cancer heterogeneity and evolution dictate that a one-size-fits-all solution is unlikely-instead, each patient should be mapped to the strategy that best matches their current disease characteristics and treatment objectives (i.e. their 'tumorscape'). To achieve this level of personalization, we need mathematical modeling. In this perspective, we propose a five-step 'Adaptive Dosing Adjusted for Personalized Tumorscapes (ADAPT)' paradigm to integrate data and understanding across scales and derive dynamic and personalized schedules. We conclude with promising examples of model-guided schedule personalization and a call to action to address key outstanding challenges surrounding data collection, model development, and integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A R Strobl
- Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa; Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, USA
| | - J Gallaher
- Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa
| | - M Robertson-Tessi
- Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa
| | - J West
- Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa
| | - A R A Anderson
- Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa.
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Nealy ES, Reed SJ, Adelmund SM, Badeau BA, Shadish JA, Girard EJ, Pakiam FJ, Mhyre AJ, Price JP, Sarkar S, Kalia V, DeForest CA, Olson JM. Versatile Tissue-Injectable Hydrogels with Extended Hydrolytic Release of Bioactive Protein Therapeutics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.01.554391. [PMID: 37693598 PMCID: PMC10491173 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.01.554391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels generally have broad utilization in healthcare due to their tunable structures, high water content, and inherent biocompatibility. FDA-approved applications of hydrogels include spinal cord regeneration, skin fillers, and local therapeutic delivery. Drawbacks exist in the clinical hydrogel space, largely pertaining to inconsistent therapeutic exposure, short-lived release windows, and difficulties inserting the polymer into tissue. In this study, we engineered injectable, biocompatible hydrogels that function as a local protein therapeutic depot with a high degree of user-customizability. We showcase a PEG-based hydrogel functionalized with bioorthogonal strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition (SPAAC) handles for its polymerization and functionalization with a variety of payloads. Small-molecule and protein cargos, including chemokines and antibodies, were site-specifically modified with hydrolysable "azidoesters" of varying hydrophobicity via direct chemical conjugation or sortase-mediated transpeptidation. These hydrolysable esters afforded extended release of payloads linked to our hydrogels beyond diffusion; with timescales spanning days to months dependent on ester hydrophobicity. Injected hydrogels polymerize in situ and remain in tissue over extended periods of time. Hydrogel-delivered protein payloads elicit biological activity after being modified with SPAAC-compatible linkers, as demonstrated by the successful recruitment of murine T-cells to a mouse melanoma model by hydrolytically released murine CXCL10. These results highlight a highly versatile, customizable hydrogel-based delivery system for local delivery of protein therapeutics with payload release profiles appropriate for a variety of clinical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S. Nealy
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle WA
| | | | - Steve M. Adelmund
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Barry A. Badeau
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Jared A. Shadish
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Emily J. Girard
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle WA
| | | | - Andrew J. Mhyre
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle WA
| | - Jason P. Price
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle WA
| | - Surojit Sarkar
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Vandana Kalia
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Cole A. DeForest
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - James M. Olson
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle WA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle WA
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English BA, Ereshefsky L. Experimental Medicine Approaches in Early-Phase CNS Drug Development. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 30:417-455. [PMID: 36928860 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-21054-9_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally, Phase 1 clinical trials were largely conducted in healthy normal volunteers and focused on collection of safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic data. However, in the CNS therapeutic area, with more drugs failing in later phase development, Phase 1 trials have undergone an evolution that includes incorporation of novel approaches involving novel study designs, inclusion of biomarkers, and early inclusion of patients to improve the pharmacologic understanding of novel CNS-active compounds early in clinical development with the hope of improving success in later phase pivotal trials. In this chapter, the authors will discuss the changing landscape of Phase 1 clinical trials in CNS, including novel trial methodology, inclusion of pharmacodynamic biomarkers, and experimental medicine approaches to inform early decision-making in clinical development.
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7
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Nature-Derived Compounds as Potential Bioactive Leads against CDK9-Induced Cancer: Computational and Network Pharmacology Approaches. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10122512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the importance of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) in the maintenance of cell development, gene transcription, and other essential biological operations, CDK blockers have been generated to manage a variety of disorders resulting from CDK irregularities. Furthermore, CDK9 has a crucial role in transcription by regulating short-lived anti-apoptotic genes necessary for cancer cell persistence. Addressing CDK9 with blockers has consequently emerged as a promising treatment for cancer. This study scrutinizes the effectiveness of nature-derived compounds (geniposidic acid, quercetin, geniposide, curcumin, and withanolide C) against CDK9 through computational approaches. A molecular docking study was performed after preparing the protein and the ligands. The selected blockers of the CDK9 exerted reliable binding affinities (−8.114 kcal/mol to −13.908 kcal/mol) against the selected protein, resulting in promising candidates compared to the co-crystallized ligand (LCI). The binding affinity of geniposidic acid (−13.908 kcal/mol) to CDK9 is higher than quercetin (−10.775 kcal/mol), geniposide (−9.969 kcal/mol), curcumin (−9.898 kcal/mol), withanolide C (−8.114 kcal/mol), and the co-crystallized ligand LCI (−11.425 kcal/mol). Therefore, geniposidic acid is a promising inhibitor of CDK9. Moreover, the molecular dynamics studies assessed the structure–function relationships and protein–ligand interactions. The network pharmacology study for the selected ligands demonstrated the auspicious compound–target–pathway signaling pathways vital in developing tumor, tumor cell growth, differentiation, and promoting tumor cell progression. Moreover, this study concluded by analyzing the computational approaches the natural-derived compounds that have potential interacting activities against CDK9 and, therefore, can be considered promising candidates for CKD9-induced cancer. To substantiate this study’s outcomes, in vivo research is recommended.
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8
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Yang J, Wang X, Wang B, Park K, Wooley K, Zhang S. Challenging the fundamental conjectures in nanoparticle drug delivery for chemotherapy treatment of solid cancers. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 190:114525. [PMID: 36100142 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Nanomedicines for cancer treatment have been studied extensively over the last few decades. Yet, only five anticancer nanomedicines have received approvals from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating solid tumors. This drastic mismatch between effort and return calls into question the basic understanding of this field. Various viewpoints on nanomedicines have been presented regarding their potentials and inefficiencies. However, the underlying logics of nanomedicine research and its inadequate translation to the successful use in the clinic have not been thoroughly examined. Tumor-targeted drug delivery was used to understand the shortfalls of the nanomedicine field in general. The concept of tumor-targeted drug delivery by nanomedicine has been based on two conjectures: (i) increased drug delivery to tumors provides better efficacy, and (ii) decreased drug delivery to healthy organs results in fewer side effects. The clinical evidence gathered from the literature indicates that nanomedicines bearing classic chemotherapeutic drugs, such as Dox, cis-Pt, CPT and PTX, have already reached the maximum drug delivery limit to solid tumors in humans. Still, the anticancer efficacy and safety remain unchanged despite the increased tumor accumulation. Thus, it is understandable to see few nanomedicine-based formulations approved by the FDA. The examination of FDA-approved nanomedicine formulations indicates that their approvals were not based on the improved delivery to tumors but mostly on changes in dose-limiting toxicity unique to each drug. This comprehensive analysis of the fundamentals of anticancer nanomedicines is designed to provide an accurate picture of the field's underlying false conjectures, hopefully, thereby accelerating the future clinical translations of many formulations under research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Xiaojin Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Clinical Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 227 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Bingshun Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Clinical Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 227 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, PR China
| | - Kinam Park
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, and Department of Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Karen Wooley
- Departments of Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering and Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Shiyi Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, PR China
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9
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Li ML, Yuan JM, Yuan H, Wu BH, Huang SL, Li QJ, Ou TM, Wang HG, Tan JH, Li D, Chen SB, Huang ZS. Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of New Sugar-Substituted Imidazole Derivatives as Selective c-MYC Transcription Repressors Targeting the Promoter G-Quadruplex. J Med Chem 2022; 65:12675-12700. [PMID: 36121464 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
c-MYC is a key driver of tumorigenesis. Repressing the transcription of c-MYC by stabilizing the G-quadruplex (G4) structure with small molecules is a potential strategy for cancer therapy. Herein, we designed and synthesized 49 new derivatives by introducing carbohydrates to our previously developed c-MYC G4 ligand 1. Among these compounds, 19a coupled with a d-glucose 1,2-orthoester displayed better c-MYC G4 binding, stabilization, and protein binding disruption abilities than 1. Our further evaluation indicated that 19a blocked c-MYC transcription by targeting the promoter G4, leading to c-MYC-dependent cancer cell death in triple-negative breast cancer cell MDA-MB-231. Also, 19a significantly inhibited tumor growth in the MDA-MB-231 mouse xenograft model accompanied by c-MYC downregulation. Notably, the safety of 19a was dramatically improved compared to 1. Our findings indicated that 19a could become a promising anticancer candidate, which suggested that introducing carbohydrates to improve the G4-targeting and antitumor activity is a feasible option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao-Lin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jing-Mei Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Bi-Han Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shi-Liang Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qing-Jiang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Tian-Miao Ou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hong-Gen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia-Heng Tan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ding Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuo-Bin Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhi-Shu Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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Rowaiye AB, Ogugua AJ, Ibeanu G, Bur D, Asala MT, Ogbeide OB, Abraham EO, Usman HB. Identifying potential natural inhibitors of Brucella melitensis Methionyl-tRNA synthetase through an in-silico approach. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0009799. [PMID: 35312681 PMCID: PMC8970508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brucellosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. Although it is the most common zoonosis worldwide, there are increasing reports of drug resistance and cases of relapse after long term treatment with the existing drugs of choice. This study therefore aims at identifying possible natural inhibitors of Brucella melitensis Methionyl-tRNA synthetase through an in-silico approach. Methods Using PyRx 0.8 virtual screening software, the target was docked against a library of natural compounds obtained from edible African plants. The compound, 2-({3-[(3,5-dichlorobenzyl) amino] propyl} amino) quinolin-4(1H)-one (OOU) which is a co-crystallized ligand with the target was used as the reference compound. Screening of the molecular descriptors of the compounds for bioavailability, pharmacokinetic properties, and bioactivity was performed using the SWISSADME, pkCSM, and Molinspiration web servers respectively. The Fpocket and PLIP webservers were used to perform the analyses of the binding pockets and the protein ligand interactions. Analysis of the time-resolved trajectories of the Apo and Holo forms of the target was performed using the Galaxy and MDWeb servers. Results The lead compounds, Strophanthidin and Isopteropodin are present in Corchorus olitorius and Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s-claw) plants respectively. Isopteropodin had a binding affinity score of -8.9 kcal / ml with the target and had 17 anti-correlating residues in Pocket 1 after molecular dynamics simulation. The complex formed by Isopteropodin and the target had a total RMSD of 4.408 and a total RMSF of 9.8067. However, Strophanthidin formed 3 hydrogen bonds with the target at ILE21, GLY262 and LEU294, and induced a total RMSF of 5.4541 at Pocket 1. Conclusion Overall, Isopteropodin and Strophanthidin were found to be better drug candidates than OOU and they showed potentials to inhibit the Brucella melitensis Methionyl-tRNA synthetase at Pocket 1, hence abilities to treat brucellosis. In-vivo and in-vitro investigations are needed to further evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of the lead compounds. The cure for brucellosis involves a long course of treatment with a combination of antibiotics. However, some of the drugs are not recommended for very young children and pregnant women. Moreover, cases of relapse and resistance to these drugs are reported. With the Brucella Methionyl-tRNA synthetase as a target, molecular docking and virtual screening was used to identify possible drug candidates from a library of 1524 compounds obtained from edible African plants. Two lead compounds, Strophanthidin and Isopteropodin usually present in Corchorus olitorius and Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s claw) plants showed potentials to inhibit the Brucella melitensis Methionyl-tRNA synthetase. Their bioactivities were also confirmed in their molecular dynamic simulation with the target protein. Consequently, both compounds have potentials for safety and efficacy in the treatment of brucellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akwoba Joseph Ogugua
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
- * E-mail:
| | - Gordon Ibeanu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Doofan Bur
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Mercy Titilayo Asala
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Hamzah Bundu Usman
- Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Federal University Gusau, Gusau, Nigeria
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11
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Moradi Kashkooli F, Soltani M. Evaluation of solid tumor response to sequential treatment cycles via a new computational hybrid approach. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21475. [PMID: 34728726 PMCID: PMC8563754 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00989-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of an in silico approach that evaluates and identifies appropriate treatment protocols for individuals could help grow personalized treatment and increase cancer patient lifespans. With this motivation, the present study introduces a novel approach for sequential treatment cycles based on simultaneously examining drug delivery, tumor growth, and chemotherapy efficacy. This model incorporates the physical conditions of tumor geometry, including tumor, capillary network, and normal tissue assuming real circumstances, as well as the intravascular and interstitial fluid flow, drug concentration, chemotherapy efficacy, and tumor recurrence. Three treatment approaches-maximum tolerated dose (MTD), metronomic chemotherapy (MC), and chemo-switching (CS)-as well as different chemotherapy schedules are investigated on a real tumor geometry extracted from image. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis of effective parameters of drug is carried out to evaluate the potential of using different other drugs in cancer treatment. The main findings are: (i) CS, MC, and MTD have the best performance in reducing tumor cells, respectively; (ii) multiple doses raise the efficacy of drugs that have slower clearance, higher diffusivity, and lower to medium binding affinities; (iii) the suggested approach to eradicating tumors is to reduce their cells to a predetermined rate through chemotherapy and then apply adjunct therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Soltani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Advanced Bioengineering Initiative Center, Computational Medicine Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Musser ML, Curran KM, Flesner BK, Johannes CM. A Retrospective Evaluation of Chemotherapy Overdoses in Dogs and Cats. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:718967. [PMID: 34631850 PMCID: PMC8492923 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.718967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy overdoses (ODs) are severe complications that can occur following the use of antineoplastics. However, little is known about chemotherapy ODs in veterinary medicine. The goals of this retrospective study were to report the occurrence, type, and cause of known chemotherapy ODs in companion animal medicine. The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine oncology and internal medicine listservs were solicited for chemotherapy OD cases in dogs and cats. An OD was defined as administration of a chemotherapy dose 10% higher than intended, or at a shorter interval than planned. Twelve non-anthracycline ODs in 11 dogs, and 3 cat ODs, were collected. Overdoses in dogs included carboplatin, cyclophosphamide, L-asparaginase, lomustine, mustargen, vincristine, and vinorelbine. The cat ODs included doxorubicin and vincristine. In dogs, the median OD was 2.1x (range: 1.2–10x) the intended dose. All dogs survived the OD and developed a variety of gastrointestinal and hematologic toxicities of varying grades. Both cats with a 2.4x vincristine OD died despite supportive care. The cat who received a 2x OD of doxorubicin survived the event, experiencing Veterinary Cooperative Oncology Group–common terminology criteria for adverse events (VCOG) grade I thrombocytopenia and anemia, and VCOG grade II neutropenia. Chemotherapy ODs appear to be rare in veterinary medicine and are typically 2–3xs the intended dose. Clinical effects include VCOG grade I and II gastrointestinal distress and VCOG grade III and IV hematologic effects. With appropriate supportive care, most patients will survive the event. Life-threatening events are more common in cats following vincristine ODs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret L Musser
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Kaitlin M Curran
- Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Brian K Flesner
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Chad M Johannes
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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13
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Novel, selective acrylamide linked quinazolines for the treatment of double mutant EGFR-L858R/T790M Non-Small-Cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Bioorg Chem 2021; 115:105234. [PMID: 34399322 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
T790M mutation is the most common mechanism of acquired resistance to first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs). To overcome this resistance, 4-anilinoquinazoline-based irreversible inhibitors afatinib, dacomitinib has been developed. However, the clinical application of these irreversible inhibitors is limited due to its narrow selectivity against L858R/T790M mutant EGFR. In an attempt to develop potent and selective EGFR T790M inhibitors, we have designed and synthesized two series of novel acrylamide linked quinazolines. Among them, compounds 2i (IC50 0.171 µM) and 11h (IC50 0.159 µM) were identified as potent compounds, which displayed selective and potent anti-proliferative activity on gefitinib-resistant cell line NCI-H1975 as compared to the gefitinib and WZ4002 in cellular assay. Furthermore, a molecular dynamic simulation of 11h was carried out to assess the stability to form a complex with the L858R/T790M EGFR Kinase domain, which demonstrated that complex was stable for the 100 ns and form strong crucial covalent binding contacts with the thiol group of Cys797 residue. Finally, satisfactory in silico pharmacokinetics properties of 2i, 11h and 11i compounds were predicted. The synthesized compounds were also evaluated for in vitro cytotoxic activity/hepatotoxicity against HepG2 cell line through MTT assay. The results revealed that compounds exhibited lower cytotoxicity to HepG2 cells.
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14
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Sramek JJ, Murphy MF, Adcock S, Stark JG, Cutler NR. Phase 1 Clinical Trials of Small Molecules: Evolution and State of the Art. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2021; 16:232-241. [PMID: 33563172 DOI: 10.2174/1574887116666210204125844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phase 1 studies comprise the first exposure of a promising new chemical entity in healthy volunteers or, when appropriate, in patients. To assure a solid foundation for subsequent drug development, this first step must carefully assess the safety and tolerance of a new compound and often provide some indication of potential effect, so that a safe dose or dose range can be confidently selected for the initial Phase 2 efficacy study in the target patient population. METHODS This review was based on a literature search using both Google Scholar and PubMed, dated back to 1970, using search terms including "healthy volunteers", "Phase 1", and "normal volunteers", and also based on the authors' own experience conducting Phase 1 clinical trials. This paper reviews the history of Phase 1 studies of small molecules and their rapid evolution, focusing on the critical single and multiple dose studies, their designs, methodology, use of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling, application of potentially helpful biomarkers, study stopping criteria, and novel study designs. RESULTS We advocate for determining the safe dose range of a new compound by conducting careful dose escalation in a well-staffed inpatient setting, defining the maximally tolerated dose (MTD) by reaching the minimally intolerated dose (MID). The dose immediately below the MID is then defined as the MTD. This is best accomplished by using appropriately screened patients for the target indication, as patients in many CNS indications often tolerate doses differently than healthy non-patients. Biomarkers for safety and pharmacodynamic measures can also assist in further defining a safe and potentially effective dose range for subsequent clinical trial phases. CONCLUSION Phase 1 studies can yield critical insights into the pharmacology of a new compound in man and offer perhaps the only development period in which the dose range can be safely and thoroughly explored. Phase 1 studies often contain multiple endpoint objectives, the reconciliation of which can present a dilemma for drug developers and study investigators alike, but which can crucially determine whether a compound can survive to the next step in the drug development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Sramek
- Worldwide Clinical Trials, 401 N Maple Dr, Beverly Hills, CA90210, United States
| | - Michael F Murphy
- Worldwide Clinical Trials, 480 E. Swedesford Rd, Suite 200, Wayne, PA19087, United States
| | - Sherilyn Adcock
- Worldwide Clinical Trials, San Antonio, TX78217, United States
| | - Jeffrey G Stark
- Worldwide Clinical Trials, 8609 Cross Park Dr, Austin, TX78754, United States
| | - Neal R Cutler
- Worldwide Clinical Trials, 401 N Maple Dr, Beverly Hills, CA90210, United States
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15
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Stampfer HG, Gabb GM, Dimmitt SB. Why maximum tolerated dose? Br J Clin Pharmacol 2019; 85:2213-2217. [PMID: 31219196 PMCID: PMC6783596 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A long-established approach to the pharmacological treatment of disease has been to start low and go slow. However, clinicians often prescribe up to maximum tolerated dose (MTD), especially when treating acute and more severe disease, without evidence to show that MTD is more likely to improve outcomes. Cardiovascular guidelines for some indications advocate MTD even in prevention, for example hypercholesterolaemia, without compelling evidence of better outcomes. This review explores the origins and potential problems of prescribing medications at MTD. Oral effective dose 50 (ED50) may be a useful guide for balancing efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans G. Stampfer
- Division of Psychiatry, Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern Australia
| | - Genevieve M. Gabb
- Department of General MedicineRoyal Adelaide HospitalAdelaideSouth Australia
| | - Simon B. Dimmitt
- Division of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaCrawleyWestern Australia
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
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