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Li M, Zhang L, Yu J, Wang X, Cheng L, Ma Z, Chen X, Wang L, Goh BC. AKR1C3 in carcinomas: from multifaceted roles to therapeutic strategies. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1378292. [PMID: 38523637 PMCID: PMC10957692 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1378292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Aldo-Keto Reductase Family 1 Member C3 (AKR1C3), also known as type 5 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD5) or prostaglandin F (PGF) synthase, functions as a pivotal enzyme in androgen biosynthesis. It catalyzes the conversion of weak androgens, estrone (a weak estrogen), and PGD2 into potent androgens (testosterone and 5α-dihydrotestosterone), 17β-estradiol (a potent estrogen), and 11β-PGF2α, respectively. Elevated levels of AKR1C3 activate androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway, contributing to tumor recurrence and imparting resistance to cancer therapies. The overexpression of AKR1C3 serves as an oncogenic factor, promoting carcinoma cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, and is correlated with unfavorable prognosis and overall survival in carcinoma patients. Inhibiting AKR1C3 has demonstrated potent efficacy in suppressing tumor progression and overcoming treatment resistance. As a result, the development and design of AKR1C3 inhibitors have garnered increasing interest among researchers, with significant progress witnessed in recent years. Novel AKR1C3 inhibitors, including natural products and analogues of existing drugs designed based on their structures and frameworks, continue to be discovered and developed in laboratories worldwide. The AKR1C3 enzyme has emerged as a key player in carcinoma progression and therapeutic resistance, posing challenges in cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of AKR1C3's role in carcinoma development, its implications in therapeutic resistance, and recent advancements in the development of AKR1C3 inhibitors for tumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengnan Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Jingzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Jiahui Yu
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Le Cheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zhaowu Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of Haematology–Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Cher Goh
- Department of Haematology–Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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2
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Mishra SK, Millman SE, Zhang L. Metabolism in acute myeloid leukemia: mechanistic insights and therapeutic targets. Blood 2023; 141:1119-1135. [PMID: 36548959 PMCID: PMC10375271 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022018092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring and cellular reprogramming are trademarks of neoplastic initiation and progression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Metabolic alteration in leukemic cells is often genotype specific, with associated changes in epigenetic and functional factors resulting in the downstream upregulation or facilitation of oncogenic pathways. Targeting abnormal or disease-sustaining metabolic activities in AML provides a wide range of therapeutic opportunities, ideally with enhanced therapeutic windows and robust clinical efficacy. This review highlights the dysregulation of amino acid, nucleotide, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism in AML; explores the role of key vitamins and enzymes that regulate these processes; and provides an overview of metabolism-directed therapies currently in use or development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott E. Millman
- Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Lingbo Zhang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY
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Marinović MA, Bekić SS, Kugler M, Brynda J, Škerlová J, Škorić DĐ, Řezáčová P, Petri ET, Ćelić AS. X-ray structure of human aldo-keto reductase 1C3 in complex with a bile acid fused tetrazole inhibitor: experimental validation, molecular docking and structural analysis. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:341-355. [PMID: 36846371 PMCID: PMC9945864 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00387b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) catalyzes the reduction of androstenedione to testosterone and reduces the effectiveness of chemotherapeutics. AKR1C3 is a target for treatment of breast and prostate cancer and AKR1C3 inhibition could be an effective adjuvant therapy in the context of leukemia and other cancers. In the present study, steroidal bile acid fused tetrazoles were screened for their ability to inhibit AKR1C3. Four C24 bile acids with C-ring fused tetrazoles were moderate to strong AKR1C3 inhibitors (37-88% inhibition), while B-ring fused tetrazoles had no effect on AKR1C3 activity. Based on a fluorescence assay in yeast cells, these four compounds displayed no affinity for estrogen receptor-α, or the androgen receptor, suggesting a lack of estrogenic or androgenic effects. A top inhibitor showed specificity for AKR1C3 over AKR1C2, and inhibited AKR1C3 with an IC50 of ∼7 μM. The structure of AKR1C3·NADP+ in complex with this C-ring fused bile acid tetrazole was determined by X-ray crystallography at 1.4 Å resolution, revealing that the C24 carboxylate is anchored to the catalytic oxyanion site (H117, Y55); meanwhile the tetrazole interacts with a tryptophan (W227) important for steroid recognition. Molecular docking predicts that all four top AKR1C3 inhibitors bind with nearly identical geometry, suggesting that C-ring bile acid fused tetrazoles represent a new class of AKR1C3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja A. Marinović
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi SadTrg Dositeja Obradovića 221000 Novi SadSerbia
| | - Sofija S. Bekić
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Environmental Protection, University of Novi SadTrg Dositeja Obradovića 321000 Novi SadSerbia
| | - Michael Kugler
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of SciencesFlemingovo nám. 2Prague16610Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Brynda
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of SciencesFlemingovo nám. 2Prague16610Czech Republic
| | - Jana Škerlová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of SciencesFlemingovo nám. 2Prague16610Czech Republic
| | - Dušan Đ. Škorić
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Environmental Protection, University of Novi SadTrg Dositeja Obradovića 321000 Novi SadSerbia
| | - Pavlína Řezáčová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of SciencesFlemingovo nám. 2Prague16610Czech Republic
| | - Edward T. Petri
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi SadTrg Dositeja Obradovića 221000 Novi SadSerbia
| | - Andjelka S. Ćelić
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi SadTrg Dositeja Obradovića 221000 Novi SadSerbia
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Jiang Y, Southam AD, Trova S, Beke F, Alhazmi B, Francis T, Radotra A, di Maio A, Drayson MT, Bunce CM, Khanim FL. Valproic acid disables the Nrf2 anti-oxidant response in acute myeloid leukaemia cells enhancing reactive oxygen species-mediated killing. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:275-286. [PMID: 34686779 PMCID: PMC8770569 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01570-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated the in vitro killing of AML cells by the combination of the lipid-lowering agent bezafibrate (BEZ) and the contraceptive hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). A phase II trial demonstrated in vivo safety and efficacy of BEZ and MPA (BaP) in elderly, relapsed/refractory AML and high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. However, we observed dose-limiting toxicities in a second trial that attempted to improve outcomes via escalation of BaP doses. Thus we sought to identify a third repurposed drug that potentiates activity of low dose BaP (BaP 0.1 mM). METHODS AND RESULTS We demonstrate that addition of a commonly used anti-epileptic, valproic acid (VAL) to low dose BaP (BaP 0.1 mM)(VBaP) enhanced killing of AML cell lines/primary AML cells to levels similar to high dose BaP (BaP 0.5 mM). Similarly, addition of VAL to BaP 0.1 mM enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation and inhibition of de novo fatty acid synthesis. Overexpression of Nrf2 in K562 and KG1a completely inhibited ROS production and rescued cells from VAL/BaP 0.1 mM/VBaP killing. CONCLUSIONS Given the good safety data of low-dose BaP in elderly/relapsed/refractory AML patients, and that VAL alone is well-tolerated, we propose VBaP as a novel therapeutic combination for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Jiang
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew D. Southam
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sandro Trova
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Flavio Beke
- grid.5335.00000000121885934CRUK Cancer Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bader Alhazmi
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Thomas Francis
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Centre for Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Anshul Radotra
- grid.412570.50000 0004 0400 5079University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Rd, Coventry, UK
| | - Alessandro di Maio
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark T. Drayson
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris M. Bunce
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Farhat L. Khanim
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Penning TM, Jonnalagadda S, Trippier PC, Rižner TL. Aldo-Keto Reductases and Cancer Drug Resistance. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:1150-1171. [PMID: 34312303 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Human aldo-keto reductases (AKRs) catalyze the NADPH-dependent reduction of carbonyl groups to alcohols for conjugation reactions to proceed. They are implicated in resistance to cancer chemotherapeutic agents either because they are directly involved in their metabolism or help eradicate the cellular stress created by these agents (e.g., reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides). Furthermore, this cellular stress activates the Nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (NRF2)-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 pathway. As many human AKR genes are upregulated by the NRF2 transcription factor, this leads to a feed-forward mechanism to enhance drug resistance. Resistance to major classes of chemotherapeutic agents (anthracyclines, mitomycin, cis-platin, antitubulin agents, vinca alkaloids, and cyclophosphamide) occurs by this mechanism. Human AKRs also catalyze the synthesis of androgens and estrogens and the elimination of progestogens and are involved in hormonal-dependent malignancies. They are upregulated by antihormonal therapy providing a second mechanism for cancer drug resistance. Inhibitors of the NRF2 system or pan-AKR1C inhibitors offer promise to surmount cancer drug resistance and/or synergize the effects of existing drugs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Aldo-keto reductases (AKRs) are overexpressed in a large number of human tumors and mediate resistance to cancer chemotherapeutics and antihormonal therapies. Existing drugs and new agents in development may surmount this resistance by acting as specific AKR isoforms or AKR pan-inhibitors to improve clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor M Penning
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (T.M.P.); Department of Pharmaceutical Science (S.J., P.C.T.) and Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center (P.C.T.), University of Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, Omaha, Nebraska; and Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (T.L.R.)
| | - Sravan Jonnalagadda
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (T.M.P.); Department of Pharmaceutical Science (S.J., P.C.T.) and Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center (P.C.T.), University of Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, Omaha, Nebraska; and Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (T.L.R.)
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (T.M.P.); Department of Pharmaceutical Science (S.J., P.C.T.) and Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center (P.C.T.), University of Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, Omaha, Nebraska; and Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (T.L.R.)
| | - Tea Lanišnik Rižner
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (T.M.P.); Department of Pharmaceutical Science (S.J., P.C.T.) and Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center (P.C.T.), University of Nebraska Medical Center and UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, Omaha, Nebraska; and Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (T.L.R.)
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Combined bezafibrate, medroxyprogesterone acetate and valproic acid treatment inhibits osteosarcoma cell growth without adversely affecting normal mesenchymal stem cells. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:227181. [PMID: 33289496 PMCID: PMC7786328 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20202505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a cost-effective means of targeting new therapies for cancer. We have examined the effects of the repurposed drugs, bezafibrate, medroxyprogesterone acetate and valproic acid on human osteosarcoma cells, i.e., SAOS2 and MG63 compared with their normal cell counterparts, i.e. mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). Cell growth, viability and migration were measured by biochemical assay and live cell imaging, whilst levels of lipid-synthesising enzymes were measured by immunoblotting cell extracts. These drug treatments inhibited the growth and survival of SAOS2 and MG63 cells most effectively when used in combination (termed V-BAP). In contrast, V-BAP treated MSCs remained viable with only moderately reduced cell proliferation. V-BAP treatment also inhibited migratory cell phenotypes. MG63 and SAOS2 cells expressed much greater levels of fatty acid synthase and stearoyl CoA desaturase 1 than MSCs, but these elevated enzyme levels significantly decreased in the V-BAP treated osteosarcoma cells prior to cell death. Hence, we have identified a repurposed drug combination that selectively inhibits the growth and survival of human osteosarcoma cells in association with altered lipid metabolism without adversely affecting their non-transformed cell counterparts.
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Tan Y, Wang M, Yang K, Chi T, Liao Z, Wei P. PPAR-α Modulators as Current and Potential Cancer Treatments. Front Oncol 2021; 11:599995. [PMID: 33833983 PMCID: PMC8021859 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.599995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. PPAR modulators may hold great potential for the management of cancer patients. Indeed, PPARs are critical sensors and regulators of lipid, and they are able to promote eNOS activation, regulate immunity and inflammation response, and affect proliferation and differentiation of cancer cells. Cancer, a name given to a group of diseases, is characterized by multiple distinctive biological behaviors, including angiogenesis, abnormal cell proliferation, aerobic glycolysis, inflammation, etc. In the last decade, emerging evidence has shown that PPAR-α, a nuclear hormone receptor, can modulate carcinogenesis via exerting effects on one or several characteristic pathological behaviors of cancer. Therefore, the multi-functional PPAR modulators have substantial promise in various types of cancer therapies. This review aims to consolidate the functions of PPAR-α, as well as discuss the current and potential applications of PPAR-α agonists and antagonists in tackling cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Tan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mina Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Neuromodulation, Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tiange Chi
- The First Clinical Medical School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zehuan Liao
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Stockholm, Sweden
- Zehuan Liao
| | - Peng Wei
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Peng Wei
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8
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Cheng HS, Tan WR, Low ZS, Marvalim C, Lee JYH, Tan NS. Exploration and Development of PPAR Modulators in Health and Disease: An Update of Clinical Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5055. [PMID: 31614690 PMCID: PMC6834327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that govern the expression of genes responsible for energy metabolism, cellular development, and differentiation. Their crucial biological roles dictate the significance of PPAR-targeting synthetic ligands in medical research and drug discovery. Clinical implications of PPAR agonists span across a wide range of health conditions, including metabolic diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases, infections, autoimmune diseases, neurological and psychiatric disorders, and malignancies. In this review we aim to consolidate existing clinical evidence of PPAR modulators, highlighting their clinical prospects and challenges. Findings from clinical trials revealed that different agonists of the same PPAR subtype could present different safety profiles and clinical outcomes in a disease-dependent manner. Pemafibrate, due to its high selectivity, is likely to replace other PPARα agonists for dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. PPARγ agonist pioglitazone showed tremendous promises in many non-metabolic disorders like chronic kidney disease, depression, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. The clinical niche of PPARβ/δ agonists is less well-explored. Interestingly, dual- or pan-PPAR agonists, namely chiglitazar, saroglitazar, elafibranor, and lanifibranor, are gaining momentum with their optimistic outcomes in many diseases including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and primary biliary cholangitis. Notably, the preclinical and clinical development for PPAR antagonists remains unacceptably deficient. We anticipate the future design of better PPAR modulators with minimal off-target effects, high selectivity, superior bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics. This will open new possibilities for PPAR ligands in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Sheng Cheng
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| | - Wei Ren Tan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore.
| | - Zun Siong Low
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore.
| | - Charlie Marvalim
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| | - Justin Yin Hao Lee
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore.
| | - Nguan Soon Tan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore.
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Stuani L, Sabatier M, Sarry JE. Exploiting metabolic vulnerabilities for personalized therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. BMC Biol 2019; 17:57. [PMID: 31319822 PMCID: PMC6637566 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0670-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in cell metabolism and metabolic adaptation are hallmark features of many cancers, including leukemia, that support biological processes involved into tumor initiation, growth, and response to therapeutics. The discovery of mutations in key metabolic enzymes has highlighted the importance of metabolism in cancer biology and how these changes might constitute an Achilles heel for cancer treatment. In this Review, we discuss the role of metabolic and mitochondrial pathways dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia, and the potential of therapeutic intervention targeting these metabolic dependencies on the proliferation, differentiation, stem cell function and cell survival to improve patient stratification and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucille Stuani
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France.
| | - Marie Sabatier
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Sarry
- Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, UMR1037, Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Equipe Labellisée LIGUE 2018, F-31037, Toulouse, France.
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10
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Iakobishvili Z, Hasin T, Klempfner R, Shlomo N, Goldenberg I, Brenner R, Kornowski R, Gerber Y. Association of Bezafibrate Treatment With Reduced Risk of Cancer in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94:1171-1179. [PMID: 31272567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between bezafibrate, a drug used to treat hypertriglyceridemia, and long-term cancer incidence in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). PATIENTS AND METHODS The study comprised 2980 patients with CAD (mean age, 60 years; 2729 [91.6%] men) who were free of cancer and were enrolled in the Bezafibrate Infarction Prevention study, a double-blind trial conducted between May 1, 1990, and January 31, 1993, in 18 cardiology departments in Israel. Patients randomized to receive 400 mg of bezafibrate (n=1486) or placebo (n=1494) daily for a median of 6.2 years (range, 4.7-7.6 years) were followed up for incidence of cancer through the Israeli National Cancer Registry and all-cause death through the Population Registry of the State of Israel until December 31, 2013. Cox proportional hazards and Fine and Gray survival models were used to assess the bezafibrate-cancer association. RESULTS Clinical characteristics and laboratory values were well balanced between the 2 groups at the study entry. Over a median follow-up of 22.5 years (range, 21.2-23.9 years), cancer developed in 753 patients. With death considered a competing event, the cumulative incidence of cancer at the end of the follow-up was lower in the bezafibrate vs the placebo group (23.9%; 95 CI, 21.9%-26.1% vs 27.2%; 95 CI, 25.1%-29.4%; P=.04). The hazard ratio for cancer in the bezafibrate vs placebo groups was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.74-0.99). In mediation analysis, the association between bezafibrate treatment and cancer incidence was not sensitive to adjustment for on-trial lipid levels but was attenuated on adjustment for on-trial fibrinogen levels. CONCLUSION Bezafibrate treatment is associated with reduced risk of cancer among patients with CAD. Fibrinogen, but not lipid lowering, is linked to this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaza Iakobishvili
- Department of Community Cardiology, Tel Aviv District, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Tal Hasin
- Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Robert Klempfner
- Olga and Lev Leviev Heart Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel
| | - Nir Shlomo
- Israel Association for Cardiovascular Trials, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel
| | - Ilan Goldenberg
- Olga and Lev Leviev Heart Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel; Israel Association for Cardiovascular Trials, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel
| | - Ronen Brenner
- Department of Oncology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Ran Kornowski
- Department of Cardiology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | - Yariv Gerber
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Stanley Steyer Institute for Cancer Epidemiology and Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Murray J, Pratt G, Jacob A, Clark F, Blundred R, Fox S, Bishop R, Wheatley K, Khanim F, Bunce C, Drayson M. Single arm phase II trial assessing the safety, compliance with and activity of Bezafibrate and medroxyProgesterone acetate (BaP) therapy against myeloid and lymphoid cancers. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2019; 14:100361. [PMID: 31011660 PMCID: PMC6463739 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported the safety and efficacy of low dose BaP [Bezafibrate (Bez) and Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA)] in 20 acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients for whom chemotherapy was not an option. This study provided evidence that BaP had anti-AML activity and improved haemopoiesis; absence of haematological toxicity allowed continuous daily administration. Similarly a previous trial in endemic Burkitt lymphoma demonstrated anti-B cell lymphoma activity of low and high dose BaP again in the absence of toxicity. We conducted a study to further evaluate the safety and activity of high dose BaP therapy in adults with AML (and high risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (BHNL). Eighteen patients were recruited to the study over 20 months, 16 AML/MDS, 1 CLL, and 1 BNHL. Although MPA was well tolerated throughout the study, only 2 patients were able to tolerate Bez treatment for their whole trial duration, indicating that Bez escalation is not feasible in the setting of adult AML/MDS. Thus there has been no obvious benefit in improved haemopoiesis or overt anti-leukaemia activity from the attempts to escalate BaP dose over previous published studies. Since current therapeutic options in MDS are restricted it may be now of value to continue to evaluate low dose BaP based approaches in low risk MDS rather than AML/high risk MDS. Furthermore, screening of low dose BaP against libraries of other already available dugs may identify an addition to BaP that augments the anti-neoplastic efficacy without significant toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Murray
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Guy Pratt
- Heartlands Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Abe Jacob
- New Cross Hospital, The Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals Trust, UK
| | - Fiona Clark
- Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | | | - Sonia Fox
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Chris Bunce
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark Drayson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, UK
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12
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Abstract
Background Despite chemotherapy intensification, a subgroup of high-risk paediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) patients still experience treatment failure. In this context, we hypothesised that therapy resistance in T-ALL might involve aldo-keto reductase 1C (AKR1C) enzymes as previously reported for solid tumors. Methods Expression of NRF2-AKR1C signaling components has been analysed in paediatric T-ALL samples endowed with different treatment outcomes as well as in patient-derived xenografts of T-ALL. The effects of AKR1C enzyme modulation has been investigated in T-ALL cell lines and primary cultures by combining AKR1C inhibition, overexpression, and gene silencing approaches. Results We show that T-ALL cells overexpress AKR1C1-3 enzymes in therapy-resistant patients. We report that AKR1C1-3 enzymes play a role in the response to vincristine (VCR) treatment, also ex vivo in patient-derived xenografts. Moreover, we demonstrate that the modulation of AKR1C1-3 levels is sufficient to sensitise T-ALL cells to VCR. Finally, we show that T-ALL chemotherapeutics induce overactivation of AKR1C enzymes independent of therapy resistance, thus establishing a potential resistance loop during T-ALL combination treatment. Conclusions Here, we demonstrate that expression and activity of AKR1C enzymes correlate with response to chemotherapeutics in T-ALL, posing AKR1C1-3 as potential targets for combination treatments during T-ALL therapy.
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Denbigh JL, Perez-Guaita D, Vernooij RR, Tobin MJ, Bambery KR, Xu Y, Southam AD, Khanim FL, Drayson MT, Lockyer NP, Goodacre R, Wood BR. Probing the action of a novel anti-leukaemic drug therapy at the single cell level using modern vibrational spectroscopy techniques. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2649. [PMID: 28572622 PMCID: PMC5453947 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a life threatening cancer for which there is an urgent clinical need for novel therapeutic approaches. A redeployed drug combination of bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone acetate (BaP) has shown anti-leukaemic activity in vitro and in vivo. Elucidation of the BaP mechanism of action is required in order to understand how to maximise the clinical benefit. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, Synchrotron radiation FTIR (S-FTIR) and Raman microspectroscopy are powerful complementary techniques which were employed to probe the biochemical composition of two AML cell lines in the presence and absence of BaP. Analysis was performed on single living cells along with dehydrated and fixed cells to provide a large and detailed data set. A consideration of the main spectral differences in conjunction with multivariate statistical analysis reveals a significant change to the cellular lipid composition with drug treatment; furthermore, this response is not caused by cell apoptosis. No change to the DNA of either cell line was observed suggesting this combination therapy primarily targets lipid biosynthesis or effects bioactive lipids that activate specific signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L Denbigh
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, United Kingdom.,Biomedical Research Centre, School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - David Perez-Guaita
- Centre for Biospectroscopy and School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Robbin R Vernooij
- Centre for Biospectroscopy and School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Mark J Tobin
- Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Keith R Bambery
- Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Yun Xu
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew D Southam
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Farhat L Khanim
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Mark T Drayson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas P Lockyer
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Royston Goodacre
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Bayden R Wood
- Centre for Biospectroscopy and School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia.
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14
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Reed MAC, Ludwig C, Bunce CM, Khanim FL, Günther UL. Malonate as a ROS product is associated with pyruvate carboxylase activity in acute myeloid leukaemia cells. Cancer Metab 2016; 4:15. [PMID: 27493727 PMCID: PMC4972992 DOI: 10.1186/s40170-016-0155-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of anaplerotic nutrient entry into the Krebs cycle via pyruvate carboxylase has been the subject of increased scrutiny and in particular whether this is dysregulated in cancer. Here, we use a tracer-based NMR analysis involving high-resolution (1)H-(13)C-HSQC spectra to assess site-specific label incorporation into a range of metabolite pools, including malate, aspartate and glutamate in the acute myeloid leukaemia cell line K562. We also determine how this is affected following treatment with the redeployed drug combination of the lipid-regulating drug bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone (BaP). RESULTS Using the tracer-based approach, we assessed the contribution of pyruvate carboxylase (PC) vs. pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity in the derivation of Krebs cycle intermediates. Our data show that PC activity is indeed high in K562 cells. We also demonstrate a branched entry to the Krebs cycle of K562 cells with one branch running counterclockwise using PC-derived oxaloacetate and the other clockwise from the PDH activity. Finally, we show that the PC activity of K562 cells exclusively fuels the ROS-induced decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to malonate in response to BaP treatment; resulting in further Krebs cycle disruption via depletion of oxaloacetate and malonate-mediated inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) resulting in a twofold reduction of fumarate. CONCLUSIONS This study extends the interest in the PC activity in solid cancers to include leukaemias and further demonstrates the value of tracer-based NMR approaches in generating a more accurate picture of the flow of carbons and metabolites within the increasingly inappropriately named Krebs cycle. Moreover, our studies indicate that the PC activity in cancer cells can be exploited as an Achilles heel by using treatments, such as BaP, that elevate ROS production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A. C. Reed
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Christian Ludwig
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | | | - Farhat L. Khanim
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Ulrich L. Günther
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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15
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Southam AD, Khanim FL, Hayden RE, Constantinou JK, Koczula KM, Michell RH, Viant MR, Drayson MT, Bunce CM. Drug Redeployment to Kill Leukemia and Lymphoma Cells by Disrupting SCD1-Mediated Synthesis of Monounsaturated Fatty Acids. Cancer Res 2015; 75:2530-40. [PMID: 25943877 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The redeployed drug combination of bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone acetate (designated BaP) has potent in vivo anticancer activity in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and endemic Burkitt lymphoma (eBL) patients; however, its mechanism-of-action is unclear. Given that elevated fatty acid biosynthesis is a hallmark of many cancers and that these drugs can affect lipid metabolism, we hypothesized that BaP exerts anticancer effects by disrupting lipogenesis. We applied mass spectrometry-based lipidomics and gene and protein expression measurements of key lipogenic enzymes [acetyl CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1), fatty acid synthase (FASN), and stearoyl CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1)] to AML and eBL cell lines treated with BaP. BaP treatment decreased fatty acid and phospholipid biosynthesis from (13)C D-glucose. The proportion of phospholipid species with saturated and monounsaturated acyl chains was also decreased after treatment, whereas those with polyunsaturated chains increased. BaP decreased SCD1 protein levels in each cell line (0.46- to 0.62-fold; P < 0.023) and decreased FASN protein levels across all cell lines (0.87-fold decrease; P = 1.7 × 10(-4)). Changes to ACC1 protein levels were mostly insignificant. Supplementation with the SCD1 enzymatic product, oleate, rescued AML and e-BL cells from BaP cell killing and decreased levels of BaP-induced reactive oxygen species, whereas supplementation with the SCD1 substrate (and FASN product), palmitate, did not rescue cells. In conclusion, these data suggest that the critical anticancer actions of BaP are decreases in SCD1 levels and monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis. To our knowledge, this is the first time that clinically available antileukemic and antilymphoma drugs targeting SCD1 have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Southam
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Farhat L Khanim
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E Hayden
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Katarzyna M Koczula
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Robert H Michell
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Viant
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mark T Drayson
- School of Immunity and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Chris M Bunce
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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16
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Hayden RE, Kussaibati R, Cronin LM, Pratt G, Roberts C, Drayson MT, Bunce CM. Bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone acetate target resting and CD40L-stimulated primary marginal zone lymphoma and show promise in indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Leuk Lymphoma 2014; 56:1079-87. [DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2014.939962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Selective AKR1C3 inhibitors do not recapitulate the anti-leukaemic activities of the pan-AKR1C inhibitor medroxyprogesterone acetate. Br J Cancer 2014; 110:1506-16. [PMID: 24569460 PMCID: PMC3960632 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2014.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We and others have identified the aldo-keto reductase AKR1C3 as a potential drug target in prostate cancer, breast cancer and leukaemia. As a consequence, significant effort is being invested in the development of AKR1C3-selective inhibitors. Methods: We report the screening of an in-house drug library to identify known drugs that selectively inhibit AKR1C3 over the closely related isoforms AKR1C1, 1C2 and 1C4. This screen initially identified tetracycline as a potential AKR1C3-selective inhibitor. However, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance studies identified that the active agent was a novel breakdown product (4-methyl(de-dimethylamine)-tetracycline (4-MDDT)). Results: We demonstrate that, although 4-MDDT enters AML cells and inhibits their AKR1C3 activity, it does not recapitulate the anti-leukaemic actions of the pan-AKR1C inhibitor medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). Screens of the NCI diversity set and an independently curated small-molecule library identified several additional AKR1C3-selective inhibitors, none of which had the expected anti-leukaemic activity. However, a pan AKR1C, also identified in the NCI diversity set faithfully recapitulated the actions of MPA. Conclusions: In summary, we have identified a novel tetracycline-derived product that provides an excellent lead structure with proven drug-like qualities for the development of AKR1C3 inhibitors. However, our findings suggest that, at least in leukaemia, selective inhibition of AKR1C3 is insufficient to elicit an anticancer effect and that multiple AKR1C inhibition may be required.
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18
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Molyneux E, Merrick B, Khanim FL, Banda K, Dunn JA, Iqbal G, Bunce CM, Drayson MT. Bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone acetate in resistant and relapsed endemic Burkitt lymphoma in Malawi; an open-label, single-arm, phase 2 study (ISRCTN34303497). Br J Haematol 2013; 164:888-90. [PMID: 24266453 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Molyneux
- Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
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19
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Porté S, Xavier Ruiz F, Giménez J, Molist I, Alvarez S, Domínguez M, Alvarez R, de Lera AR, Parés X, Farrés J. Aldo-keto reductases in retinoid metabolism: search for substrate specificity and inhibitor selectivity. Chem Biol Interact 2012; 202:186-94. [PMID: 23220004 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2012.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Biological activity of natural retinoids requires the oxidation of retinol to retinoic acid (RA) and its binding to specific nuclear receptors in target tissues. The first step of this pathway, the reversible oxidoreduction of retinol to retinaldehyde, is essential to control RA levels. The enzymes of retinol oxidation are NAD-dependent dehydrogenases of the cytosolic medium-chain (MDR) and the membrane-bound short-chain (SDR) dehydrogenases/reductases. Retinaldehyde reduction can be performed by SDR and aldo-keto reductases (AKR), while its oxidation to RA is carried out by aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDH). In contrast to SDR, AKR and ALDH are cytosolic. A common property of these enzymes is that they only use free retinoid, but not retinoid bound to cellular retinol binding protein (CRBP). The relative contribution of each enzyme type in retinoid metabolism is discussed in terms of the different subcellular localization, topology of membrane-bound enzymes, kinetic constants, binding affinity of CRBP for retinol and retinaldehyde, and partition of retinoid pools between membranes and cytoplasm. The development of selective inhibitors for AKR enzymes 1B1 and 1B10, of clinical relevance in diabetes and cancer, granted the investigation of some structure-activity relationships. Kinetics with the 4-methyl derivatives of retinaldehyde isomers was performed to identify structural features for substrate specificity. Hydrophilic derivatives were better substrates than the more hydrophobic compounds. We also explored the inhibitory properties of some synthetic retinoids, known for binding to retinoic acid receptors (RAR) and retinoid X receptors (RXR). Consistent with its substrate specificity towards retinaldehyde, AKR1B10 was more effectively inhibited by synthetic retinoids than AKR1B1. A RARβ/γ agonist (UVI2008) inhibited AKR1B10 with the highest potency and selectivity, and docking simulations predicted that its carboxyl group binds to the anion-binding pocket.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Porté
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Penna F, Pin F, Costamagna D, Reffo P, Baccino FM, Bonelli G, Costelli P. Caspase 2 activation and ER stress drive rapid Jurkat cell apoptosis by clofibrate. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45327. [PMID: 23028936 PMCID: PMC3445471 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2010] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Differently from the antiapoptotic action most commonly assigned to peroxisome proliferators (PPs), we demonstrated that some of them, clofibrate (CF) in particular, display clearcut apoptogenic properties on rat hepatoma cell lines. We and others could confirm that CF as well as various other PPs can induce apoptosis in a variety of cells, including human liver, breast and lung cancer cell lines. The present study was aimed at investigating the cytotoxic action of CF on a neoplastic line of different origin, the human T leukemia Jurkat cells. We observed that CF rapidly triggers an extensive and morphologically typical apoptotic process on Jurkat cells, though not in primary T cells, which is completely prevented by the polycaspase inhibitor zVADfmk. Gene silencing studies demonstrated that CF-induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells is partially dependent on activation of caspase 2. Looking for a possible trigger of caspase 2 activation, we observed increased levels of phosphorylated eIF2α and JNK in CF-treated cells. Moreover, intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis was perturbed. Together, these findings are suggestive for the occurrence of ER stress, an event that is known to have the potential to activate caspase 2. The present observations demonstrate that CF induces in Jurkat cells a very fast and extensive apoptosis, that involves induction of ER stress and activation of caspases 2 and 3. Since apoptosis in Jurkat cells occurs at pharmacologically relevant concentrations of CF, the present findings encourage further in depth analysis in order to work out the potential implications of CF cytotoxcity on leukemic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Penna
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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21
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Retinoid differentiation therapy for common types of acute myeloid leukemia. LEUKEMIA RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2012; 2012:939021. [PMID: 23213553 PMCID: PMC3504222 DOI: 10.1155/2012/939021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many cancers arise in a tissue stem cell, and cell differentiation is impaired resulting in an accumulation of immature cells. The introduction of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in 1987 to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a rare subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), pioneered a new approach to obtain remission in malignancies by restoring the terminal maturation of leukemia cells resulting in these cells having a limited lifespan. Differentiation therapy also offers the prospect of a less aggressive treatment by virtue of attenuated growth of leukemia cells coupled to limited damage to normal cells. The success of ATRA in differentiation therapy of APL is well known. However, ATRA does not work in non-APL AML. Here we examine some of the molecular pathways towards new retinoid-based differentiation therapy of non-APL AML. Prospects include modulation of the epigenetic status of ATRA-insensitive AML cells, agents that influence intracellular signalling events that are provoked by ATRA, and the use of novel synthetic retinoids.
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Hayden RE, Pratt G, Roberts C, Drayson MT, Bunce CM. Treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia requires targeting of the protective lymph node environment with novel therapeutic approaches. Leuk Lymphoma 2011; 53:537-49. [PMID: 21812539 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2011.610014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) remains associated with low complete response rates and high relapse rates. This is in part due to poor understanding of CLL biology and thus inadequate targeting of therapy. For years CLL has been proposed as bi-compartmental: the quiescent tumor in the periphery and the proliferating cells within specific microenvironments. Historically the bone marrow was considered the major tissue of the CLL microenvironment. However, many recent innovative studies have categorically shown that peripheral CLL cells are derived from the lymph nodes (LN). Proliferation here is largely driven by helper T cells via CD40-CD40L engagement. Critically, in vitro studies have shown that such engagement additionally protects LN CLLs from apoptosis. Agents inducing apoptosis in non-CD40 engaged CLL cells are frequently ineffective against those continually engaged with CD40L. This emphasizes that, in order to improve responses and prevent relapse, novel therapies must be assessed against CD40L engaged CLL cells to show effective targeting against the LN. This review discusses the evidence supporting the superior involvement of the LN in CLL, how CD40L engaged CLL studies should be conducted, and the novel therapies studied in vitro and in vivo that have been proposed to be effective in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Hayden
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Scatena R, Bottoni P, Pontoglio A, Giardina B. Cancer stem cells: the development of new cancer therapeutics. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2011; 11:875-92. [PMID: 21463158 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2011.573780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells with indefinite proliferative potential that drive the growth of tumors. CSCs seem to provide a suitable explanation for several intriguing aspects of cancer pathophysiology. AREAS COVERED An explosion of therapeutic options for cancer treatment that selectively target CSCs has been recorded in the recent years. These include the targeting of cell-surface proteins, various activated signalling pathways, different molecules of the stem cell niche and various drug resistance mechanisms. Importantly, approaching cancer research by investigating the pathogenesis of these intriguing cancer cells is increasing the knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease, emphasizing certain molecular mechanisms that have been partially neglected. EXPERT OPINION The characterization of the molecular phenotype of these cancer stem-like cells, associated with an accurate definition of their typical derangement in cell differentiation, can represent a fundamental advance in terms of diagnosis and therapy of cancer. Preliminary results seem to be promising but further studies are required to define the therapeutic index of this new anticancer treatment. Moreover, understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms of CSCs can expand the therapeutic applications of normal adult stem cells by reducing the risk of uncontrolled tumorigenic stem cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Scatena
- Catholic University, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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Hayden RE, Pratt G, Drayson MT, Bunce CM. Lycorine sensitizes CD40 ligand-protected chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells to bezafibrate- and medroxyprogesterone acetate-induced apoptosis but dasatanib does not overcome reported CD40-mediated drug resistance. Haematologica 2010; 95:1889-96. [PMID: 20634492 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2010.027821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia accumulate in the periphery through the proliferation of a minority of cells in lymph nodes. The proliferative and survival signals in these proliferation centers include interactions with T lymphocytes expressing CD40 ligand. We have demonstrated that the low toxicity combination of bezafibrate and medroxyprogesterone acetate induces mitochondrial superoxide-mediated apoptosis of non-CD40-liganded cells but not of cells exposed to CD40 ligand. Here, we assessed the ability of dasatinib and lycorine to restore bezafibrate- and medroxyprogesterone acetate- induced apoptosis in cells exposed to CD40 ligand. In parallel experiments we compared the ability of dasatinib to induce apoptosis of cells co-treated with fludarabine. DESIGN AND METHODS Primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were exposed to drug combinations for 72 hours on control and CD40 ligand-expressing fibroblast monolayers. Cells were harvested and analyzed for apoptosis and levels of mitochondrial superoxide using flow cytometry. In some experiments cells were removed from CD40 ligand at 48 hours, retreated and analyzed after a further 24 hours. The effect of CD40 ligand and drug treatments on mitochondrial superoxide levels were assessed. RESULTS As previously described, dasatinib rendered cells sensitive to fludarabine but only when CD40 ligand was removed for the last 24 hours of culture. In contrast, lycorine restored the bezafibrate- and medroxyprogesterone acetate-induced apoptosis associated with mitochondrial superoxide even during continuous exposure to CD40 ligand. Furthermore, combined bezafibrate, medroxyprogesterone acetate and lycorine had little effect against normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells, whereas dasatinib with fludarabine induced high levels of apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate the potential of bezafibrate, medroxyprogesterone acetate and lycorine as novel therapy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and have important implications for the reported potential of c-abl kinase inhibitors in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Hayden
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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