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Liu X, Zhao A, Xiao S, Li H, Li M, Guo W, Han Q. PD-1: A critical player and target for immune normalization. Immunology 2024; 172:181-197. [PMID: 38269617 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13755] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune system imbalances contribute to the pathogenesis of several different diseases, and immunotherapy shows great therapeutic efficacy against tumours and infectious diseases with immune-mediated derivations. In recent years, molecules targeting the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint have attracted much attention, and related signalling pathways have been studied clearly. At present, several inhibitors and antibodies targeting PD-1 have been utilized as anti-tumour therapies. However, increasing evidence indicates that PD-1 blockade also has different degrees of adverse side effects, and these new explorations into the therapeutic safety of PD-1 inhibitors contribute to the emerging concept that immune normalization, rather than immune enhancement, is the ultimate goal of disease treatment. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in PD-1 research with regard to immune normalization and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuening Liu
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Alison Zhao
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Su Xiao
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- People's Hospital of Zhoucun, Zibo, Shandong, China
| | - Haohao Li
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Menghua Li
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China
| | - Qiuju Han
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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2
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Zamani MR, Hadzima M, Blažková K, Šubr V, Ormsby T, Celis-Gutierrez J, Malissen B, Kostka L, Etrych T, Šácha P, Konvalinka J. Polymer-based antibody mimetics (iBodies) target human PD-L1 and function as a potent immune checkpoint blocker. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107325. [PMID: 38685532 PMCID: PMC11154707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107325] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) using monoclonal antibodies against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is the treatment of choice for cancer immunotherapy. However, low tissue permeability, immunogenicity, immune-related adverse effects, and high cost could be possibly improved using alternative approaches. On the other hand, synthetic low-molecular-weight (LMW) PD-1/PD-L1 blockers have failed to progress beyond in vitro studies, mostly due to low binding affinity or poor pharmacological characteristics resulting from their limited solubility and/or stability. Here, we report the development of polymer-based anti-human PD-L1 antibody mimetics (α-hPD-L1 iBodies) by attaching the macrocyclic peptide WL12 to a N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer. We characterized the binding properties of iBodies using surface plasmon resonance, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and a cellular ICB model. We found that the α-hPD-L1 iBodies specifically target human PD-L1 (hPD-L1) and block the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction in vitro, comparable to the atezolizumab, durvalumab, and avelumab licensed monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-L1. Our findings suggest that iBodies can be used as experimental tools to target hPD-L1 and could serve as a platform to potentiate the therapeutic effect of hPD-L1-targeting small molecules by improving their affinity and pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Zamani
- Faculty of Science, Department of Cell Biology, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hadzima
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Department of Organic Chemistry, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Blažková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Šubr
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Ormsby
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Javier Celis-Gutierrez
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Bernard Malissen
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Libor Kostka
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Etrych
- Department of Biomedical polymers, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Šácha
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Konvalinka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Xu J, Kong Y, Zhu P, Du M, Liang X, Tong Y, Li X, Dong C. Progress in small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1161-1175. [PMID: 38665838 PMCID: PMC11042164 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00655g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PD-L1 is a transmembrane protein overexpressed by tumor cells. It binds to PD-1 on the surface of T-cells, suppresses T-cell activity and hinders the immune response against cancer. Clinically, several monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have achieved significant success in cancer immunotherapy. Nevertheless, their disadvantages, such as unchecked immune responses, high cost and long half-life, stimulated pharmacologists to develop small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-1/PD-L1. After a batch of excellent inhibitors with a biphenyl core structure were firstly reported by BMS, more and more researchers focused on small-molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1 rather than PD-1. Numerous small-molecule inhibitors were extensively designed and synthesized in the past few years. In this paper, the structural characteristics of PD-L1 and complexes of PD-L1 with its inhibitors are elaborated and small molecule inhibitors developed in the last decade are summarized as well. This paper aims to provide insights into further designing and synthesis of small molecule inhibitors targeting PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindan Xu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Yuanfang Kong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Pengbo Zhu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Mingyan Du
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Xuan Liang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Yan Tong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
| | - Chunhong Dong
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Polysaccharide Research Center Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Polysaccharides and Drugs Research Zhengzhou 450046 Henan China
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Wang Y, Zhou Y, Yang L, Lei L, He B, Cao J, Gao H. Challenges Coexist with Opportunities: Spatial Heterogeneity Expression of PD-L1 in Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303175. [PMID: 37934012 PMCID: PMC10767451 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies has been used in various clinical applications and achieved certain results. However, such limitations as autoimmunity, tumor hyperprogression, and overall low patient response rate impede its further clinical application. Mounting evidence has revealed that PD-L1 is not only present in tumor cell membrane but also in cytoplasm, exosome, or even nucleus. Among these, the dynamic and spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 in tumors is mainly responsible for the unsatisfactory efficacy of PD-L1 antibodies. Hence, numerous studies focus on inhibiting or degrading PD-L1 to improve immune response, while a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying spatial heterogeneity of PD-L1 can fundamentally transform the current status of PD-L1 antibodies in clinical development. Herein, the concept of spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 is creatively introduced, encompassing the structure and biological functions of various kinds of PD-L1 (including mPD-L1, cPD-L1, nPD-L1, and exoPD-L1). Then an in-depth analysis of the regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of PD-L1 is provided, seeking to offer a solid basis for future investigation. Moreover, the current status of agents is summarized, especially small molecular modulators development directed at these new targets, offering a novel perspective on potential PD-L1 therapeutics strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhen Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Lianyi Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Lei Lei
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Jun Cao
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
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5
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Stadlbauer S. Exploring Hydrophilic PD-L1 Radiotracers Utilizing Phosphonic Acids: Insights into Unforeseen Pharmacokinetics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15088. [PMID: 37894769 PMCID: PMC10606431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis in cancer patients, is a promising oncological treatment. However, the number of non-responders remains high, causing a burden for the patient and the healthcare system. Consequently, a diagnostic tool to predict treatment outcomes would help with patient stratification. Molecular imaging provides said diagnostic tool by offering a whole-body quantitative assessment of PD-L1 expression, hence supporting therapy decisions. Four PD-L1 radioligand candidates containing a linker-chelator system for radiometalation, along with three hydrophilizing units-one sulfonic and two phosphonic acids-were synthesized. After labeling with 64Cu, log D7.4 values of less than -3.03 were determined and proteolytic stability confirmed over 94% intact compound after 48 h. Binding affinity was determined using two different assays, revealing high affinities up to 13 nM. µPET/CT imaging was performed in tumor-bearing mice to investigate PD-L1-specific tumor uptake and the pharmacokinetic profile of radioligands. These results yielded an unexpected in vivo distribution, such as low tumor uptake in PD-L1 positive tumors, high liver uptake, and accumulation in bone/bone marrow and potentially synovial spaces. These effects are likely caused by Ca2+-affinity and/or binding to macrophages. Despite phosphonic acids providing high water solubility, their incorporation must be carefully considered to avoid compromising the pharmacokinetic behavior of radioligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
| | - Cornelius K. Donat
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technical University Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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6
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Pandya A, Shah Y, Kothari N, Postwala H, Shah A, Parekh P, Chorawala MR. The future of cancer immunotherapy: DNA vaccines leading the way. Med Oncol 2023; 40:200. [PMID: 37294501 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02060-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Immuno-oncology has revolutionized cancer treatment and has opened up new opportunities for developing vaccination methods. DNA-based cancer vaccines have emerged as a promising approach to activating the bodily immune system against cancer. Plasmid DNA immunizations have shown a favorable safety profile and there occurs induction of generalized as well as tailored immune responses in preclinical and early-phase clinical experiments. However, these vaccines have notable limitations in immunogenicity and heterogeneity and these require refinements. DNA vaccine technology has been focusing on improving vaccine efficacy and delivery, with parallel developments in nanoparticle-based delivery systems and gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9. This approach has showcased great promise in enhancing and tailoring the immune response to vaccination. Strategies to enhance the efficacy of DNA vaccines include the selection of appropriate antigens, optimizing insertion in a plasmid, and studying combinations of vaccines with conventional strategies and targeted therapies. Combination therapies have attenuated immunosuppressive activities in the tumor microenvironment and enhanced the capability of immune cells. This review provides an overview of the current framework of DNA vaccines in oncology and focuses on novel strategies, including established combination therapies and those still under development.The challenges that oncologists, scientists, and researchers need to overcome to establish DNA vaccines as an avant-garde approach to defeating cancer, are also emphasized. The clinical implications of the immunotherapeutic approaches and the need for predictive biomarkers have also been reviewed upon. We have also tried to extend the role of Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to the DNA vaccines. The clinical implications of the immunotherapeutic approaches have also been reviewed upon. Ultimately, refining and optimizing DNA vaccines will enable harnessing the immune system's natural ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, leading the world towards a revolution in cancer cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aanshi Pandya
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Yesha Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Nirjari Kothari
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Humzah Postwala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Aayushi Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Priyajeet Parekh
- AV Pharma LLC, 1545 University Blvd N Ste A, Jacksonville, FL, 32211, USA
| | - Mehul R Chorawala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India.
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7
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Ullrich M, Zarschler K, Ludik MC, Feldmann A, Loureiro LR, Kopka K, Stadlbauer S. Design and Biological Evaluation of Small-Molecule PET-Tracers for Imaging of Programmed Death Ligand 1. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092638. [PMID: 37174103 PMCID: PMC10177516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive molecular imaging of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint is of high clinical relevance for patient stratification and therapy monitoring in cancer patients. Here we report nine small-molecule PD-L1 radiotracers with solubilizing sulfonic acids and a linker-chelator system, designed by molecular docking experiments and synthesized according to a new, convergent synthetic strategy. Binding affinities were determined both in cellular saturation and real-time binding assay (LigandTracer), revealing dissociation constants in the single digit nanomolar range. Incubation in human serum and liver microsomes proved in vitro stability of these compounds. Small animal PET/CT imaging, in mice bearing PD-L1 overexpressing and PD-L1 negative tumors, showed moderate to low uptake. All compounds were cleared primarily through the hepatobiliary excretion route and showed a long circulation time. The latter was attributed to strong blood albumin binding effects, discovered during our binding experiments. Taken together, these compounds are a promising starting point for further development of a new class of PD-L1 targeting radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Cornelius K Donat
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kristof Zarschler
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie-Charlotte Ludik
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Anja Feldmann
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Liliana R Loureiro
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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Lou J, Lu Y, Cheng J, Zhou F, Yan Z, Zhang D, Meng X, Zhao Y. A chemical perspective on the modulation of TEAD transcriptional activities: Recent progress, challenges, and opportunities. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114684. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Liu C, Yang M, Zhang D, Chen M, Zhu D. Clinical cancer immunotherapy: Current progress and prospects. Front Immunol 2022; 13:961805. [PMID: 36304470 PMCID: PMC9592930 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.961805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapy via PD-1 antibodies has shown exciting clinical value and robust therapeutic potential in clinical practice. It can significantly improve progression-free survival and overall survival. Following surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, cancer treatment has now entered the age of immunotherapy. Although cancer immunotherapy has shown remarkable efficacy, it also suffers from limitations such as irAEs, cytokine storm, low response rate, etc. In this review, we discuss the basic classification, research progress, and limitations of cancer immunotherapy. Besides, by combining cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanism with analysis of combination therapy, we give our insights into the development of new anticancer immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglong Liu
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengxuan Yang
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daizhou Zhang
- New Drug Evaluation Center, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Taixing Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Taizhou, China
| | - Di Zhu
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- New Drug Evaluation Center, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of ImmunoTherapeutics, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Di Zhu,
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Sasikumar PG, Ramachandra M. Small Molecule Agents Targeting PD-1 Checkpoint Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy: Mechanisms of Action and Other Considerations for Their Advanced Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:752065. [PMID: 35585982 PMCID: PMC9108255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.752065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pioneering success of antibodies targeting immune checkpoints such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) has changed the outlook of cancer therapy. Although these antibodies show impressive durable clinical activity, low response rates and immune-related adverse events are becoming increasingly evident in antibody-based approaches. For further strides in cancer immunotherapy, novel treatment strategies including combination therapies and alternate therapeutic modalities are highly warranted. Towards this discovery and development of small molecule, checkpoint inhibitors are actively being pursued, and the efforts have culminated in the ongoing clinical testing of orally bioavailable checkpoint inhibitors. This review focuses on the small molecule agents targeting PD-1 checkpoint pathway for cancer immunotherapy and highlights various chemotypes/scaffolds and their characterization including binding and functionality along with reported mechanism of action. The learnings from the ongoing small molecule clinical trials and crucial points to be considered for their clinical development are also discussed.
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Zhang S, Yan Z, Li Y, Gong Y, Lyu X, Lou J, Zhang D, Meng X, Zhao Y. Structure-Based Discovery of MDM2/4 Dual Inhibitors that Exert Antitumor Activities against MDM4-Overexpressing Cancer Cells. J Med Chem 2022; 65:6207-6230. [PMID: 35420431 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent clinical progress in peptide-based dual inhibitors of MDM2/4, small-molecule ones with robust antitumor activities remain challenging. To tackle this issue, 31 (YL93) was structure-based designed and synthesized, which had MDM2/4 binding Ki values of 1.1 and 642 nM, respectively. In three MDM4-overexpressing cancer cell lines harboring wild-type p53, 31 shows improved cell growth inhibition activities compared to RG7388, an MDM2-selective inhibitor in late-stage clinical trials. Mechanistic studies show that 31 increased cellular protein levels of p53 and p21 and upregulated the expression of p53-targeted genes in RKO cells with MDM4 amplification. In addition, 31 induced cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in western blot and flow cytometry assays. Taken together, dual inhibition of MDM2/4 by 31 elicited stronger antitumor activities in vitro compared to selective MDM2 inhibitors in wild-type p53 and MDM4-overexpressing cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ziqin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yafang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Nano Science and Technology Institute, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Yang Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xilin Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianfeng Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Daizhou Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Xiangjing Meng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Yujun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Small-Molecule Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinan 250101, China
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12
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Feng X, Yan Z, Zhou F, Lou J, Lyu X, Ren X, Zeng Z, Liu C, Zhang S, Zhu D, Huang H, Yang J, Zhao Y. Discovery of a selective and covalent small-molecule inhibitor of BFL-1 protein that induces robust apoptosis in cancer cells. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 236:114327. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Song Z, Liu B, Peng X, Gu W, Sun Y, Xing L, Xu Y, Geng M, Ai J, Zhang A. Design, Synthesis, and Pharmacological Evaluation of Biaryl-Containing PD-1/PD-L1 Interaction Inhibitors Bearing a Unique Difluoromethyleneoxy Linkage. J Med Chem 2021; 64:16687-16702. [PMID: 34761679 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Blockade of immune checkpoint PD-1/PD-L1 has been a promising anticancer strategy; however, clinically available PD-1/PD-L1 small-molecule inhibitors are lacking. In view of the high potency of compound 2 (BMS-1002), structural fine tuning of the methoxy linkage together with diverse modification in the solvent interaction region was conducted. A series of novel derivatives featuring a difluoromethyleneoxy linkage were designed. Compound 43 was identified as the most promising PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor with an IC50 value of 10.2 nM in the HTRF assay. This compound is capable of promoting CD8+ T cell activation through inhibiting PD-1/PD-L1 cellular signaling. Moreover, in the Hepa1-6 syngeneic mouse model, administration of compound 43 at 1 mg/kg dosage promoted CD8+ T cell activation and delayed the tumor growth with good tolerance. Notably, the tumor in one mouse of the compound 43-treated group was completely regressed. These results indicate that compound 43 is a promising candidate worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilan Song
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xia Peng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wangting Gu
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yiming Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Li Xing
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Shanghai Pinghe School, 261 Huangyang Road, Shanghai 201206, China
| | - Meiyu Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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