1
|
Yuan D, Chen W, Jin S, Li W, Liu W, Liu L, Wu Y, Zhang Y, He X, Jiang J, Sun H, Liu X, Liu J. Co-expression of immune checkpoints in glioblastoma revealed by single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1534-1546. [PMID: 38633388 PMCID: PMC11021796 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most malignant tumors of the central nervous system. The pattern of immune checkpoint expression in GBM remains largely unknown. We performed snRNA-Seq and spatial transcriptomic (ST) analyses on untreated GBM samples. 8 major cell types were found in both tumor and adjacent normal tissues, with variations in infiltration grade. Neoplastic cells_6 was identified in malignant cells with high expression of invasion and proliferator-related genes, and analyzed its interactions with microglia, MDM cells and T cells. Significant alterations in ligand-receptor interactions were observed, particularly between Neoplastic cells_6 and microglia, and found prominent expression of VISTA/VSIG3, suggesting a potential mechanism for evading immune system attacks. High expression of TIM-3, VISTA, PSGL-1 and VSIG-3 with similar expression patterns in GBM, may have potential as therapeutic targets. The prognostic value of VISTA expression was cross-validated in 180 glioma patients, and it was observed that patients with high VISTA expression had a poorer prognosis. In addition, multimodal cross analysis integrated SnRNA-seq and ST, revealing complex intracellular communication and mapping the GBM tumor microenvironment. This study reveals novel molecular characteristics of GBM, co-expression of immune checkpoints, and potential therapeutic targets, contributing to improving the understanding and treatment of GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dingyi Yuan
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shasha Jin
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wanmei Liu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yinhao Wu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu He
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwei Jiang
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Di JW, Wang YX, Ma RX, Luo ZJ, Chen WT, Liu WM, Yuan DY, Zhang YY, Wu YH, Chen CP, Liu J. Repositioning baloxavir marboxil as VISTA agonist that ameliorates experimental asthma. Cell Biol Toxicol 2024; 40:12. [PMID: 38340268 PMCID: PMC10858940 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-024-09852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
V-type immunoglobulin domain-containing suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA), a novel negative checkpoint regulator, plays an essential role in allergic pulmonary inflammation in mice. Treatment with a VISTA agonistic antibody could significantly improve asthma symptoms. Thus, for allergic asthma treatment, VISTA targeting may be a compelling approach. In this study, we examined the functional mechanism of VISTA in allergic pulmonary inflammation and screened the FDA-approved drugs for VISTA agonists. By using mass cytometry (CyTOF), we found that VISTA deficiency primarily increased lung macrophage infiltration in the OVA-induced asthma model, accompanied by an increased proportion of M1 macrophages (CD11b+F4/80+CD86+) and a decreased proportion of M2 macrophages (CD11b+F4/80+CD206+). Further in vitro studies showed that VISTA deficiency promoted M1 polarization and inhibited M2 polarization of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Importantly, we discovered baloxavir marboxil (BXM) as a VISTA agonist by virtual screening of FDA-approved drugs. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assays revealed that BXM (KD = 1.07 µM) as well as its active form, baloxavir acid (BXA) (KD = 0.21 µM), could directly bind to VISTA with high affinity. Notably, treatment with BXM significantly ameliorated asthma symptoms, including less lung inflammation, mucus secretion, and the generation of Th2 cytokines (IL-5, IL-13, and IL-4), which were dramatically attenuated by anti-VISTA monoclonal antibody treatment. BXM administration also reduced the pulmonary infiltration of M1 macrophages and raised M2 macrophages. Collectively, our study indicates that VISTA regulates pulmonary inflammation in allergic asthma by regulating macrophage polarization and baloxavir marboxil, and an old drug might be a new treatment for allergic asthma through targeting VISTA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Wen Di
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Rui-Xue Ma
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Luo
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wen-Ting Chen
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wan-Mei Liu
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ding-Yi Yuan
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yu-Ying Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yin-Hao Wu
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Cai-Ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing, 401135, China.
| | - Jun Liu
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yang L, Zhang T, Wang P, Chen W, Liu W, He X, Zhang Y, Jin S, Luo Z, Zhang Z, Wang X, Liu J. Imatinib and M351-0056 enhance the function of VISTA and ameliorate the development of SLE via IFN-I and noncanonical NF-κB pathway. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:3287-3304. [PMID: 37804401 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-023-09833-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA), an important negative checkpoint protein, participates in immunoregulation. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which patients exhibit high levels of autoantibodies and multi-organ tissue injury, primarily involving the kidney and skin. In wild-type (WT) mice and Vsir-/- mice with pristane-induced lupus-like disease, we found that VISTA deficiency exacerbated the lupus-like disease in mice, possibly through aberrant activation of type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling, CD4+ T cell, and noncanonical nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. Surface plasmon resonance results showed that imatinib, an FDA-approved tyrosine kinase inhibitor, may have a high affinity for human VISTA-ECD with a KD value of 0.2009 μM. The biological activities of imatinib and VISTA agonist M351-0056 were studied in monocytes and T cells and in lupus-like disease murine model of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. VISTA small-molecule agonist reduced the cytokine production of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and Jurkat cells and inhibited PBMCs proliferation. Moreover, they attenuated the levels of autoantibodies, renal injury, inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and immune cell expansion in the cGVHD mouse model and MRL/lpr mice. Our findings also demonstrated that VISTA small-molecule agonist ameliorated the development of SLE through improving aberrantly activated IFN-I signaling and noncanonical NF-κB pathway. In conclusion, VISTA has a protective effect on the development and progression of SLE. VISTA agonist M351-0056 and imatinib have been firstly demonstrated to attenuate SLE, suggesting interventions to enhance VISTA function may be effective in treating SLE. VISTA deficiency exacerbates pristane-induced lupus-like disease in mice by promoting activation of the IFN-I and noncanonical NF-κB pathway. Imatinib was screened as a small-molecule VISTA agonist by molecular docking, SPR, and cellular level experiments. VISTA agonists (M351-0056 and imatinib) alleviated lupus-like disease progression in the cGVHD mouse model and MRL/lpr mice by inhibiting activation of IFN-I and noncanonical NF-κB pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Penglu Wang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wanmei Liu
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiaoyu He
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Shasha Jin
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhijie Luo
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zunjian Zhang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xinzhi Wang
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Jun Liu
- New Drug Screening Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shahab M, Al-Madhagi H, Zheng G, Zeb A, Alasmari AF, Alharbi M, Alasmari F, Khan MQ, Khan M, Wadood A. Structure based virtual screening and molecular simulation study of FDA-approved drugs to inhibit human HDAC6 and VISTA as dual cancer immunotherapy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14466. [PMID: 37660065 PMCID: PMC10475047 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41325-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has significantly contributed to the treatment of various types of cancers mainly by targeting immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Among them, V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) has been explored as a promising therapeutic target. Besides, histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) has been demonstrated to be efficacious target for several cancers. The current theoretical work was performed to explore the virtual repurposing of the FDA-approved drugs as inhibitors against these two (VISTA and HDAC6) cancers therapeutic targets. The crystal structure of the two proteins were downloaded from PDB and subjected to virtual screening by DrugRep webserver while using FDA-approved drugs library as ligands database. Our study revealed that Oxymorphone and Bexarotene are the top-ranked inhibitors of VISTA and HDAC6, respectively. The docking score of Bexarotene was predicted as - 10 kcal/mol while the docking score of Oxymorphone was predicted as - 6.2 kcal/mol. Furthermore, a total of 100 ns MD simulation revealed that the two drugs Oxymorphone and Bexarotene formed stable complexes with VISTA and HDAC6 drug targets. As compared to the standard drug the two drugs Oxymorphone and Bexarotene revealed great stability during the whole 100 ns MD simulation. The binding free energy calculation further supported the Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) result which stated that as compared to the ref/HDAC6 (- 18.0253 ± 2.6218) the binding free energy score of the Bexarotene/HDAC6 was good (- 51.9698 ± 3.1572 kcal/mol). The binding free energy score of Oxymorphone/VISTA and Ref/VISTA were calculated as - 36.8323 ± 3.4565, and - 21.5611 ± 4.8581 respectively. In conclusion, the two drugs deserve further consideration as cancer treatment option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shahab
- State Key Laboratories of Chemical Resources Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | | | - Guojun Zheng
- State Key Laboratories of Chemical Resources Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Amir Zeb
- Department of Natural and Basic Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Turbat, Turbat, 92600, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah Fayez Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Metab Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Qayash Khan
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Momin Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Wadood
- Department of Biochemistry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang D, Tao J, Zhang X, Ma X, Li C, Li H, Li W, Chen J, Liu H. Novel Pro-myogenic Factor Neoruscogenin Induces Muscle Fiber Hypertrophy by Inhibiting MSTN Maturation and Activating the Akt/mTOR Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:499-511. [PMID: 36563293 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c06527] [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: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Neoruscogenin is a plant-origin sapogenin that has the potential to modulate muscle growth among the small-molecule compounds that we previously predicted by artificial intelligence to target myostatin (MSTN). This study aimed to elucidate the biological role of neoruscogenin on muscle growth and its relationship with MSTN. Using molecular biological techniques, we found that neoruscogenin inhibited MSTN maturation, thereby repressing its signal transduction; further facilitated protein synthesis metabolism and reduced protein degradation metabolism, ultimately promoting the differentiation of myoblasts and hypertrophy of muscle fibers; and had the effect of repairing muscle injury. This study enriched the biological functions of neoruscogenin and provided a theoretical basis for the treatment of human myopathy and its application in the livestock industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dingding Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jingli Tao
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiangfei Ma
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chengyu Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hongmin Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Weijian Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Honglin Liu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zheng S, Zhang K, Zhang X, Xiao Y, Wang T, Jiang S. Development of Inhibitors Targeting the V-Domain Ig Suppressor of T Cell Activation Signal Pathway. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11900-11912. [PMID: 36083840 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Blockade of cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) has produced considerable therapeutic effect, but only in a fraction of patients, so more targets are being investigated. VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation) is a novel immune checkpoint that is broadly expressed within hematopoietic cells and multiple cancers (low expressing frequency on solid tumors), particularly those with a poor immunotherapy response rate. As a result, VISTA has been identified as an appealing target for immunotherapy, and several VISTA inhibitors are currently in clinical and preclinical trials. In this review, the structural features and binding partners of VISTA are summarized, and we describe the latest developments of monoclonal antibodies and small molecules targeting VISTA as well as possible future directions for development of therapies targeting VISTA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianyu Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Veríssimo GC, Serafim MSM, Kronenberger T, Ferreira RS, Honorio KM, Maltarollo VG. Designing drugs when there is low data availability: one-shot learning and other approaches to face the issues of a long-term concern. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:929-947. [PMID: 35983695 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2114451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Modern drug discovery generally is accessed by useful information from previous large databases or uncovering novel data. The lack of biological and/or chemical data tends to slow the development of scientific research and innovation. Here, approaches that may help provide solutions to generate or obtain enough relevant data or improve/accelerate existing methods within the last five years were reviewed. AREAS COVERED One-shot learning (OSL) approaches, structural modeling, molecular docking, scoring function space (SFS), molecular dynamics (MD), and quantum mechanics (QM) may be used to amplify the amount of available data to drug design and discovery campaigns, presenting methods, their perspectives, and discussions to be employed in the near future. EXPERT OPINION Recent works have successfully used these techniques to solve a range of issues in the face of data scarcity, including complex problems such as the challenging scenario of drug design aimed at intrinsically disordered proteins and the evaluation of potential adverse effects in a clinical scenario. These examples show that it is possible to improve and kickstart research from scarce available data to design and discover new potential drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel C Veríssimo
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mateus Sá M Serafim
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thales Kronenberger
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology, Internal Medicine VIII, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Rafaela S Ferreira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Kathia M Honorio
- Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC), Santo André, Brazil
| | - Vinícius G Maltarollo
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen W, Qie C, Hu X, Wang L, Jiang J, Liu W, Liu J. A small molecule inhibitor of VSIG-8 prevents its binding to VISTA. Invest New Drugs 2022; 40:690-699. [DOI: 10.1007/s10637-022-01244-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
9
|
Wu C, Cao X, Zhang X. VISTA inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: a short perspective on recent progresses. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:1672-1679. [PMID: 34778768 PMCID: PMC8528208 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00185j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
V-domain immunoglobulin (Ig) suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is a novel negative checkpoint regulator that mediates T cell proliferation and cytokine production. The VISTA signaling pathway blockade has been proved as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Recent VISTA sequence analysis and crystal structure investigations have revealed its independent and unique function as compared with B7 family members, such as PD-1. This review will discuss VISTA binding partners and compare the structural differences between VISTA and other B7 family members, focusing on VISTA functions in immune activation and maintaining T cell quiescence. Recent progress and the therapeutic potential of biomacromolecules, such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small molecules targeting VISTA, are also discussed. Among these, a first-in-class small-molecule antagonist, CA-170, is highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, and Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 211198 China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Xiaojin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, and Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 211198 China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pan Y, You Y, Sun L, Sui Q, Liu L, Yuan H, Chen C, Liu J, Wen X, Dai L, Sun H. The STING antagonist H-151 ameliorates psoriasis via suppression of STING/NF-κB-mediated inflammation. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:4907-4922. [PMID: 34460100 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with both innate and adaptive immune responses. The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) protein engages in sensing of cytosolic DNA to initiate dsDNA-driven immune responses. In vitro and in vivo anti-psoriasis effects of STING antagonist H-151 were explored. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We analysed the gene expression profile of STING and related downstream targets in the skin samples of healthy people and psoriasis patients from the GEO database. Cellular inhibitory activity of H-151 on STING pathway was confirmed via qPCR and western blotting. The preventive effect of topical application of H-151 on imiquimod-induced psoriatic mice was examined through histological, immunohistochemical, immunofluorescent, flow cytometric analysis, ELISA Kits and other approaches. Preliminary mechanistic studies were also performed. KEY RESULTS Gene expressions of STING and its downstream target were up-regulated in lesional skin samples from psoriasis patients. Topical administration of H-151 attenuated the skin lesions in imiquimod-induced psoriatic mouse model, while the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-17, IL-23 and IL-6), infiltration of M1 macrophages and differentiation of Th17 cells were significantly suppressed by H-151 treatment. Mechanistically, H-151 inhibited STING/NF-κB signalling in both keratinocytes and immune cells. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS H-151 displayed anti-inflammatory activity in both keratinocytes and immune cells, and decreased the severity of psoriatic response in vivo. Inhibition of STING signalling pathway may represent a novel therapeutic approach to psoriasis and related complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanping You
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Sun
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy of Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Qibang Sui
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haoliang Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Caiping Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoan Wen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Dai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy of Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li TT, Jiang JW, Qie CX, Xuan CX, Hu XL, Liu WM, Chen WT, Liu J. Identification of active small-molecule modulators targeting the novel immune checkpoint VISTA. BMC Immunol 2021; 22:55. [PMID: 34380434 PMCID: PMC8359099 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-021-00446-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer immunotherapy has gained increasing popularity as a novel approach to treat cancer. A member of the B7 family, V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) is a novel immune checkpoint that regulates a broad spectrum of immune responses. VISTA is an acidic pH-selective ligand for P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1(PSGL-1). CA-170, a first-in-class small-molecule dual antagonist of VISTA/PD-L1, was collaboratively developed by Aurigene Discovery Technologies Limited and Curis, Inc. It is currently in Phase I clinical trial. Results In this study, we develop homology modeling for the VISTA 3D structure and subsequent virtual screening for VISTA small-molecule hit ligands. Visualization of the binding postures of docked ligands with the VISTA protein indicates that some small molecular compounds target VISTA. The ability of antagonist to disrupt immune checkpoint VISTA pathways was investigated though functional studies in vitro. Conclusions Affinity active molecule for VISTA was obtained through virtual screening, and the antagonist compound activity to VISTA was assayed in cellular level. We reported a small molecule with high VISTA affinity as antagonist, providing ideas for development VISTA-targeted small molecule compound in cancer immunotherapy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12865-021-00446-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Li
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jing-Wei Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chen-Xin Qie
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chun-Xiao Xuan
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xin-Lei Hu
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wan-Mei Liu
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wen-Ting Chen
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|