1
|
Li Y, Li G, Wang Y, Li L, Song Y, Cao F, Yang K. Discovery and biological evaluation of biaryl acetamide derivatives as selective and in vivo active sphingosine kinase-2 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116577. [PMID: 38875809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116577] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy due to its critical role in tumor growth. However, the lack of potent and selective inhibitors has hindered its clinical application. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a series of novel SphK2 inhibitors, culminating in the identification of compound 12q as a highly selective and potent inhibitor of SphK2. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the incorporation of larger substitution groups facilitates a more effective occupation of the binding site, thereby stabilizing the complex. Compared to the widely used inhibitor ABC294640, compound 12q exhibits superior anti-proliferative activity against various cancer cells, inducing G2 phase arrest and apoptosis in liver cancer cells HepG2. Notably, 12q inhibited migration and colony formation in HepG2 and altered intracellular sphingolipid content. Moreover, intraperitoneal administration of 12q in mice resulted in decreased levels of S1P. 12q provides a valuable tool compound for exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting SphK2 in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Gang Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Longfei Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Yali Song
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Fei Cao
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China; Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis, Ministry of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
| | - Kan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China; Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis, Ministry of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yokoyama S, Koo I, Aibara D, Tian Y, Murray IA, Collins SL, Coslo DM, Kono M, Peters JM, Proia RL, Gonzalez FJ, Perdew GH, Patterson AD. Sphingosine Kinase 2 Regulates Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Nuclear Translocation and Target Gene Activation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400794. [PMID: 39207053 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Sphingolipids play vital roles in metabolism and regulation. Previously, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, was reported to directly regulate ceramide synthesis genes by binding to their promoters. Herein, sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2), responsible for producing sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), was found to interact with AHR through LXXLL motifs, influencing AHR nuclear localization. Through mutagenesis and co-transfection studies, AHR activation and subsequent nuclear translocation was hindered by SPHK2 LXXLL mutants or SPHK2 lacking a nuclear localization signal (NLS). Similarly, an NLS-deficient AHR mutant impaired SPHK2 nuclear translocation. Silencing SPHK2 reduced AHR expression and its target gene CYP1A1, while SPHK2 overexpression enhanced AHR activity. SPHK2 was found enriched on the CYP1A1 promoter, underscoring its role in AHR target gene activation. Additionally, S1P rapidly increased AHR expression at both the mRNA and protein levels and promoted AHR recruitment to the CYP1A1 promoter. Using mouse models, AHR deficiency compromised SPHK2 nuclear translocation, illustrating a critical interaction where SPHK2 facilitates AHR nuclear localization and supports a positive feedback loop between AHR and sphingolipid enzyme activity in the nucleus. These findings highlight a novel function of SPHK2 in regulating AHR activity and gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shigetoshi Yokoyama
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Imhoi Koo
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Daisuke Aibara
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Iain A Murray
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Stephanie L Collins
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Denise M Coslo
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Mari Kono
- Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Peters
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Richard L Proia
- Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Frank J Gonzalez
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Gary H Perdew
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Andrew D Patterson
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Neuenschwander FC, Barnett-Griness O, Piconi S, Maor Y, Sprinz E, Assy N, Khmelnitskiy O, Lomakin NV, Goloshchekin BM, Nahorecka E, Joaquim Westheimer Calvacante A, Ivanova A, Vladimirovich Zhuravel S, Yurevna Trufanova G, Bonora S, Saffoury A, Mayo A, Shvarts YG, Rizzardini G, Sobroza de Mello R, Pilau J, Klinov A, Valente-Acosta B, Olegovich Burlaka O, Bakhtina N, Bar-Meir M, Nikolaevich Shishimorov I, Oñate-Gutierrez J, García Rincón CI, Ivanovna Martynenko T, Hajjar LA, Carolina Nazare de Mendonca Procopio A, Simon K, Gabriel Chaves Santiago W, Fronczak A, Roberto Hoffmann Filho C, Hussein O, Aleksandrovich Martynov V, Chichino G, Blewaska P, Wroblewski J, Saul Irizar Santana S, Felipe Ocampo Agudelo A, Barczyk A, Lask Gerlach R, Campbell E, Bibliowicz A, Fathi R, Anderson P, Raday G, Klein M, Fehrmann C, Eagle G, Ben-Yair VK, Levitt ML. Effect of Opaganib on Supplemental Oxygen and Mortality in Patients with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Based upon FIO 2 Requirements. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1767. [PMID: 39338442 PMCID: PMC11434591 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12091767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Once a patient has been diagnosed with severe COVID-19 pneumonia, treatment options have limited effectiveness. Opaganib is an oral treatment under investigation being evaluated for treatment of hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind phase 2/3 trial was conducted in 57 sites worldwide from August 2020 to July 2021. Patients received either opaganib (n = 230; 500 mg twice daily) or matching placebo (n = 233) for 14 days. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients no longer requiring supplemental oxygen by day 14. Secondary outcomes included changes in the World Health Organization Ordinal Scale for Clinical Improvement, viral clearance, intubation, and mortality at 28 and 42 days. Pre-specified primary and secondary outcome analyses did not demonstrate statistically significant benefit (except nominally for time to viral clearance). Post-hoc analysis revealed the fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2) at baseline was prognostic for opaganib treatment responsiveness and corresponded to disease severity markers. Patients with FIO2 levels at or below the median value (≤60%) had better outcomes after opaganib treatment (n = 117) compared to placebo (n = 134). The proportion of patients with ≤60% FIO2 at baseline that no longer required supplemental oxygen (≥24 h) by day 14 of opaganib treatment increased (76.9% vs. 63.4%; nominal p-value = 0.033). There was a 62.6% reduction in intubation/mechanical ventilation (6.84% vs. 17.91%; nominal p-value = 0.012) and a clinically meaningful 62% reduction in mortality (5.98% vs. 16.7%; nominal p-value = 0.019) by day 42. No new safety concerns were observed. While the primary analyses were not statistically significant, post-hoc analysis suggests opaganib benefit for patients with severe COVID-19 requiring supplemental oxygen with an FIO2 of ≤60%. Further studies are warranted to prospectively confirm opaganib benefit in this subpopulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yasmin Maor
- Infectious Disease Unit, E. Wolfson Medical Center, Holon 58100, Israel
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Eduardo Sprinz
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Nimer Assy
- Western Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya 221001, Israel
| | - Oleg Khmelnitskiy
- Saint-Petersburg State Budget Healthcare Institution "City Pokrovskaya Hospital", Saint-Petersburg 199106, Russia
| | - Nikita V Lomakin
- Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 121359, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Anastasia Ivanova
- State Budgetary Institution of Ryazan Region "Regional Clinical Hospital", Ryazan 390026, Russia
| | | | - Galina Yurevna Trufanova
- State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Tver Region "Regional Clinical Hospital", Tver 170100, Russia
| | | | | | - Ami Mayo
- Assuta Medical Center Ashdod, Ashdod 7747629, Israel
| | - Yury G Shvarts
- Clinical Hospital n.a-S.R. Mirotvortseva SSMU, Saratov 410012, Russia
| | | | - Rogerio Sobroza de Mello
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Tubarão, Centro de Pesquisas Clínicas do Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Tubarão 88701-160, Brazil
| | - Janaina Pilau
- Hospital de Clínicas de Passo Fundo, Cento de Pesquisa Clínica, Passo Fundo 99010-260, Brazil
| | - Alexey Klinov
- Kirovsk Interregional Hospital, Leningrad 187342, Russia
| | | | - Oleg Olegovich Burlaka
- Saint-Petersburg State Budgetary Healthcare Institution "City Aleksandrovskaya Hospital", Saint-Petersburg 193312, Russia
| | - Natalia Bakhtina
- State Regional Budgetary Healthcare Institution Murmansk Regional Clinical Hospital, Murmansk 183032, Russia
| | | | - Ivan Nikolaevich Shishimorov
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Institute of Medical and Physiotherapy, Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd 400087, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Ludhmila Abrahão Hajjar
- Instituto do Coração do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Andar 05403-900, Brazil
| | | | - Krzysztof Simon
- Szpital Specjalistyczny im. Gromkowskiego, 51-149 Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Adam Fronczak
- Centrum Onkologii w Lodzi, Oddzial COVID-19, 93-510 Lodz, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jacek Wroblewski
- Szpital Wojewódzki im. Mikołaja Kopernika, 75-581 Koszalin, Poland
| | | | | | - Adam Barczyk
- Department of Pneumology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | | | | | | | - Reza Fathi
- RedHill Biopharma Ltd., Tel-Aviv 6473921, Israel
| | | | - Gilead Raday
- RedHill Biopharma Ltd., Tel-Aviv 6473921, Israel
| | | | - Clara Fehrmann
- CEEF Solutions Beaconsfield, Pointe-Claire, QC H9S 4L7, Canada
| | - Gina Eagle
- G.E.T. Pharma Consulting, LLC, Lumberville, PA 18933, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Prell A, Wigger D, Huwiler A, Schumacher F, Kleuser B. The sphingosine kinase 2 inhibitors ABC294640 and K145 elevate (dihydro)sphingosine 1-phosphate levels in various cells. J Lipid Res 2024; 65:100631. [PMID: 39182604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100631] [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: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine kinases (SphKs), enzymes that produce the bioactive lipids dihydrosphingosine 1-phosphate (dhS1P) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), are associated with various diseases, including cancer and infections. For this reason, a number of SphK inhibitors have been developed. Although off-target effects have been described for selected agents, SphK inhibitors are mostly used in research without monitoring the effects on the sphingolipidome. We have now investigated the effects of seven commonly used SphK inhibitors (5c, ABC294640 (opaganib), N,N-dimethylsphingosine, K145, PF-543, SLM6031434, and SKI-II) on profiles of selected sphingolipids in Chang, HepG2, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. While we observed the expected (dh)S1P reduction for N,N-dimethylsphingosine, PF-543, SKI-II, and SLM6031434, 5c showed hardly any effect. Remarkably, for K145 and ABC294640, both reported to be specific for SphK2, we observed dose-dependent strong increases in dhS1P and S1P across cell lines. Compensatory effects of SphK1 could be excluded, as this observation was also made in SphK1-deficient HK-2 cells. Furthermore, we observed effects on dihydroceramide desaturase activity for all inhibitors tested, as has been previously noted for ABC294640 and SKI-II. In additional mechanistic studies, we investigated the massive increase of dhS1P and S1P after short-term cell treatment with ABC294640 and K145 in more detail. We found that both compounds affect sphingolipid de novo synthesis, with 3-ketodihydrosphingosine reductase and dihydroceramide desaturase as their targets. Our study indicates that none of the seven SphK inhibitors tested was free of unexpected on-target and/or off-target effects. Therefore, it is important to monitor cellular sphingolipid profiles when SphK inhibitors are used in mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agata Prell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dominik Wigger
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Huwiler
- Institute of Pharmacology, Inselspital, INO-F, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Schumacher
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Burkhard Kleuser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Patel SH, Wilson GC, Wu Y, Keitsch S, Wilker B, Mattarei A, Ahmad SA, Szabo I, Gulbins E. Sphingosine is involved in PAPTP-induced death of pancreas cancer cells by interfering with mitochondrial functions. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:947-959. [PMID: 38780771 PMCID: PMC11213728 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02456-2] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Pancreas ductal adenocarcinoma belongs to the most common cancers, but also to the tumors with the poorest prognosis. Here, we pharmacologically targeted a mitochondrial potassium channel, namely mitochondrial Kv1.3, and investigated the role of sphingolipids and mutated Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Virus (KRAS) in Kv1.3-mediated cell death. We demonstrate that inhibition of Kv1.3 using the Kv1.3-inhibitor PAPTP results in an increase of sphingosine and superoxide in membranes and/or membranes associated with mitochondria, which is enhanced by KRAS mutation. The effect of PAPTP on sphingosine and mitochondrial superoxide formation as well as cell death is prevented by sh-RNA-mediated downregulation of Kv1.3. Induction of sphingosine in human pancreas cancer cells by PAPTP is mediated by activation of sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase and prevented by an inhibitor of sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase. A rapid depolarization of isolated mitochondria is triggered by binding of sphingosine to cardiolipin, which is neutralized by addition of exogenous cardiolipin. The significance of these findings is indicated by treatment of mutated KRAS-harboring metastasized pancreas cancer with PAPTP in combination with ABC294640, a blocker of sphingosine kinases. This treatment results in increased formation of sphingosine and death of pancreas cancer cells in vitro and, most importantly, prolongs in vivo survival of mice challenged with metastatic pancreas cancer. KEY MESSAGES: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a common tumor with poor prognosis. The mitochondrial Kv1.3 ion channel blocker induced mitochondrial sphingosine. Sphingosine binds to cardiolipin thereby mediating mitochondrial depolarization. Sphingosine is formed by a PAPTP-mediated activation of S1P-Phosphatase. Inhibition of sphingosine-consumption amplifies PAPTP effects on PDAC in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sameer H Patel
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Gregory C Wilson
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Yuqing Wu
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Simone Keitsch
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Barbara Wilker
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Andrea Mattarei
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Syed A Ahmad
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ildiko Szabo
- Department of Biology, CNR Institute of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Erich Gulbins
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Maines LW, Keller SN, Smith RA, Schrecengost RS, Smith CD. Opaganib Downregulates N-Myc Expression and Suppresses In Vitro and In Vivo Growth of Neuroblastoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1779. [PMID: 38730731 PMCID: PMC11082966 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB), the most common cancer in infants and the most common solid tumor outside the brain in children, grows aggressively and responds poorly to current therapies. We have identified a new drug (opaganib, also known as ABC294640) that modulates sphingolipid metabolism by inhibiting the synthesis of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) by sphingosine kinase-2 and elevating dihydroceramides by inhibition of dihydroceramide desaturase. The present studies sought to determine the potential therapeutic activity of opaganib in cell culture and xenograft models of NB. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that NB cells, including cells with amplified MYCN, are effectively killed by opaganib concentrations well below those that accumulate in tumors in vivo. Opaganib was shown to cause dose-dependent decreases in S1P and hexosylceramide levels in Neuro-2a cells, while concurrently elevating levels of dihydroceramides. As with other tumor cells, opaganib reduced c-Myc and Mcl-1 protein levels in Neuro-2a cells, and also reduced the expression of the N-Myc protein. The in vivo growth of xenografts of human SK-N-(BE)2 cells with amplified MYCN was suppressed by oral administration of opaganib at doses that are well tolerated in mice. Combining opaganib with temozolomide plus irinotecan, considered the backbone for therapy of relapsed or refractory NB, resulted in increased antitumor activity in vivo compared with temozolomide plus irinotecan or opaganib alone. Mice did not lose additional weight when opaganib was combined with temozolomide plus irinotecan, indicating that the combination is well tolerated. Opaganib has additive antitumor activity toward Neuro-2a tumors when combined with the checkpoint inhibitor anti-CTLA-4 antibody; however, the combination of opaganib with anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibodies did not provide increased antitumor activity over that seen with opaganib alone. Overall, the data demonstrate that opaganib modulates sphingolipid metabolism and intracellular signaling in NB cells and inhibits NB tumor growth alone and in combination with other anticancer drugs. Amplified MYCN does not confer resistance to opaganib, and, in fact, the drug attenuates the expression of both c-Myc and N-Myc. The safety of opaganib has been established in clinical trials with adults with advanced cancer or severe COVID-19, and so opaganib has excellent potential for treating patients with NB, particularly in combination with temozolomide and irinotecan or anti-CTLA-4 antibody.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Charles D. Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA 17036, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Komai M, Noda Y, Ikeda A, Kaneshiro N, Kamikubo Y, Sakurai T, Uehara T, Takasugi N. Nuclear SphK2/S1P signaling is a key regulator of ApoE production and Aβ uptake in astrocytes. J Lipid Res 2024; 65:100510. [PMID: 38280459 PMCID: PMC10907773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100510] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The link between changes in astrocyte function and the pathological progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has attracted considerable attention. Interestingly, activated astrocytes in AD show abnormalities in their lipid content and metabolism. In particular, the expression of apolipoprotein E (ApoE), a lipid transporter, is decreased. Because ApoE has anti-inflammatory and amyloid β (Aβ)-metabolizing effects, the nuclear receptors, retinoid X receptor (RXR) and LXR, which are involved in ApoE expression, are considered promising therapeutic targets for AD. However, the therapeutic effects of agents targeting these receptors are limited or vary considerably among groups, indicating the involvement of an unknown pathological factor that modifies astrocyte and ApoE function. Here, we focused on the signaling lipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), which is mainly produced by sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) in the brain. Using astrocyte models, we found that upregulation of SphK2/S1P signaling suppressed ApoE induction by both RXR and LXR agonists. We also found that SphK2 activation reduced RXR binding to the APOE promoter region in the nucleus, suggesting the nuclear function of SphK2/S1P. Intriguingly, suppression of SphK2 activity by RNA knockdown or specific inhibitors upregulated lipidated ApoE induction. Furthermore, the induced ApoE facilitates Aβ uptake in astrocytes. Together with our previous findings that SphK2 activity is upregulated in AD brain and promotes Aβ production in neurons, these results indicate that SphK2/S1P signaling is a promising multifunctional therapeutic target for AD that can modulate astrocyte function by stabilizing the effects of RXR and LXR agonists, and simultaneously regulate neuronal pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masato Komai
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan; Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuka Noda
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsuya Ikeda
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Nanaka Kaneshiro
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yuji Kamikubo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Sakurai
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Uehara
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - Nobumasa Takasugi
- Department of Medicinal Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hengst JA, Nduwumwami AJ, Sharma A, Yun JK. Fanning the Flames of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress: Can Sphingolipid Metabolism Be Targeted to Enhance ER Stress-Associated Immunogenic Cell Death in Cancer? Mol Pharmacol 2024; 105:155-165. [PMID: 38164594 PMCID: PMC10877730 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.123.000786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The three arms of the unfolded protein response (UPR) surveil the luminal environment of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and transmit information through the lipid bilayer to the cytoplasm to alert the cell of stress conditions within the ER lumen. That same lipid bilayer is the site of de novo synthesis of phospholipids and sphingolipids. Thus, it is no surprise that lipids are modulated by and are modulators of ER stress. Given that sphingolipids have both prosurvival and proapoptotic effects, they also exert opposing effects on life/death decisions in the face of prolonged ER stress detected by the UPR. In this review, we will focus on several recent studies that demonstrate how sphingolipids affect each arm of the UPR. We will also discuss the role of sphingolipids in the process of immunogenic cell death downstream of the protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)/eukaryotic initiating factor 2α (eIF2α) arm of the UPR. Furthermore, we will discuss strategies to target the sphingolipid metabolic pathway that could potentially act synergistically with agents that induce ER stress as novel anticancer treatments. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review provides the readers with a brief discussion of the sphingolipid metabolic pathway and the unfolded protein response. The primary focus of the review is the mechanism(s) by which sphingolipids modulate the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response pathways and the critical role of sphingolipids in the process of immunogenic cell death associated with the ER stress response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Hengst
- Departments of Pediatrics (J.A.H.) and Pharmacology (A.S., J.K.Y.), Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, National Center for Advancing Translational Science, Rockville, Maryland (A.J.N.)
| | - Asvelt J Nduwumwami
- Departments of Pediatrics (J.A.H.) and Pharmacology (A.S., J.K.Y.), Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, National Center for Advancing Translational Science, Rockville, Maryland (A.J.N.)
| | - Arati Sharma
- Departments of Pediatrics (J.A.H.) and Pharmacology (A.S., J.K.Y.), Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, National Center for Advancing Translational Science, Rockville, Maryland (A.J.N.)
| | - Jong K Yun
- Departments of Pediatrics (J.A.H.) and Pharmacology (A.S., J.K.Y.), Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, National Center for Advancing Translational Science, Rockville, Maryland (A.J.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Maines LW, Keller SN, Smith RA, Green CL, Smith CD. The Sphingolipid-Modulating Drug Opaganib Protects against Radiation-Induced Lung Inflammation and Fibrosis: Potential Uses as a Medical Countermeasure and in Cancer Radiotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2322. [PMID: 38396999 PMCID: PMC10888706 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042322] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic pathology resulting from excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components that leads to the loss of tissue function. Pulmonary fibrosis can follow a variety of diverse insults including ischemia, respiratory infection, or exposure to ionizing radiation. Consequently, treatments that attenuate the development of debilitating fibrosis are in desperate need across a range of conditions. Sphingolipid metabolism is a critical regulator of cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and pathologic inflammation, processes that are all involved in fibrosis. Opaganib (formerly ABC294640) is the first-in-class investigational drug targeting sphingolipid metabolism for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Opaganib inhibits key enzymes in sphingolipid metabolism, including sphingosine kinase-2 and dihydroceramide desaturase, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting autophagy. Herein, we demonstrate in mouse models of lung damage following exposure to ionizing radiation that opaganib significantly improved long-term survival associated with reduced lung fibrosis, suppression of granulocyte infiltration, and reduced expression of IL-6 and TNFα at 180 days after radiation. These data further demonstrate that sphingolipid metabolism is a critical regulator of fibrogenesis, and specifically show that opaganib suppresses radiation-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. Because opaganib has demonstrated an excellent safety profile during clinical testing in other diseases (cancer and COVID-19), the present studies support additional clinical trials with this drug in patients at risk for pulmonary fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Charles D. Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA 17036, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jin J, Chang S, Chen Y, Liu M, Dong Y, Liu J, Wang Q, Huang H, Fan L, Xiang R. Reticulon 3 regulates sphingosine-1-phosphate synthesis in endothelial cells to control blood pressure. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e480. [PMID: 38352050 PMCID: PMC10863919 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the endothelium as a major regulator of vascular tone triggered intense research among basic and clinical investigators to unravel the physiologic and pathophysiologic significance of this phenomenon. Sphingosine-l-phosphate (S1P), derived from the vascular endothelium, is a significant regulator of blood pressure. However, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of S1P biosynthetic pathways in arteries remain to be further clarified. Here, we reported that Reticulon 3 (RTN3) regulated endothelial sphingolipid biosynthesis and blood pressure. We employed public datasets, patients, and mouse models to explore the pathophysiological roles of RTN3 in blood pressure control. The underlying mechanisms were studied in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We reported that increased RTN3 was found in patients and that RTN3-null mice presented hypotension. In HUVECs, RTN3 can regulate migration and tube formation via the S1P signaling pathway. Mechanistically, RTN3 can interact with CERS2 to promote the selective autophagy of CERS2 and further influence S1P signals to control blood pressure. We also identified an RTN3 variant (c.116C>T, p.T39M) in a family with hypertension. Our data provided the first evidence of the association between RTN3 level changes and blood pressure anomalies and preliminarily elucidated the importance of RTN3 in S1P metabolism and blood pressure regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie‐Yuan Jin
- Department of OrthopaedicsMicrosurgery & Reconstruction Research CenterXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Si‐Hua Chang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Ya‐Qin Chen
- Department of CardiologyThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Meng‐Wei Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- College of Basic MedicalXinjiang Medical UniversityUrumqiChina
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Ji‐Shi Liu
- Department of NephrologyThe Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of OrthopaedicsMicrosurgery & Reconstruction Research CenterXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Liang‐Liang Fan
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Rong Xiang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life SciencesCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dai L, Goyal N, Liu J, Foroozesh M, Qin Z. Developing new ceramide analogs against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:86-96. [PMID: 38323290 PMCID: PMC10839310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes the predominant form of lung cancer and stands as the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy yield suboptimal responses in a significant portion of lung cancer patients, resulting in a discouraging 5-year survival rate of approximately 15%. Despite advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, many NSCLC patients exhibit either negligible or partial responses, emphasizing the pressing necessity for the discovery of innovative anti-cancer agents. Our previous study demonstrated that ABC294640, an inhibitor of one of the key enzymes in sphingolipid metabolism, sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), displayed anti-NSCLC activities in vitro and in vivo. In the current study, through the screening of a series of newly synthesized ceramide analogs, we have identified new compounds, particularly analogs 403 and 953, that exhibit potent anti-NSCLC activities. These compounds induce significant NSCLC apoptosis by elevating intracellular pre-apoptotic ceramide and dihydro(dh)-ceramide production. Lipidomics analyses further elucidate the alterations in ceramide and dh-ceramide species signature/proportion across different NSCLC cell-lines induced by these novel ceramide analogs. Treatments with ceramide analogs 403 and 953 remarkably inhibit NSCLC progression in vivo without observable toxicity. Collectively, these findings establish a foundation for the development of promising sphingolipid-based therapies aimed at enhancing the prognosis of NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Dai
- Department of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Navneet Goyal
- Department of Chemistry, Xavier University of Louisiana1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
| | - Jiawang Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science CenterMemphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Maryam Foroozesh
- Department of Chemistry, Xavier University of Louisiana1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Department of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jamjoum R, Majumder S, Issleny B, Stiban J. Mysterious sphingolipids: metabolic interrelationships at the center of pathophysiology. Front Physiol 2024; 14:1229108. [PMID: 38235387 PMCID: PMC10791800 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1229108] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic pathways are complex and intertwined. Deficiencies in one or more enzymes in a given pathway are directly linked with genetic diseases, most of them having devastating manifestations. The metabolic pathways undertaken by sphingolipids are diverse and elaborate with ceramide species serving as the hubs of sphingolipid intermediary metabolism and function. Sphingolipids are bioactive lipids that serve a multitude of cellular functions. Being pleiotropic in function, deficiency or overproduction of certain sphingolipids is associated with many genetic and chronic diseases. In this up-to-date review article, we strive to gather recent scientific evidence about sphingolipid metabolism, its enzymes, and regulation. We shed light on the importance of sphingolipid metabolism in a variety of genetic diseases and in nervous and immune system ailments. This is a comprehensive review of the state of the field of sphingolipid biochemistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rama Jamjoum
- Department of Pharmacy, Birzeit University, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Saurav Majumder
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Batoul Issleny
- Department of Pharmacy, Birzeit University, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Johnny Stiban
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Birzeit University, West Bank, Palestine
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fugio LB, Silva G, Ferraz CL, Trevisan GL, Coeli-Lacchini FB, Garcia CB, Sousa LO, Malta TM, Gil CD, Leopoldino AM. Accumulation of sphingosine kinase 2 protein induces malignant transformation in oral keratinocytes associated with stemness, autophagy, senescence, and proliferation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119616. [PMID: 37898377 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling has been widely explored as a therapeutic target in cancer. Sphingosine kinase 2 (SK2), one of the kinases that phosphorylate sphingosine, has a cell type and cell location-dependent mechanism of action, so the ability of SK2 to induce cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, proliferation, and survival is strongly influenced by the cell-context. In contrast to SK1, which is widely studied in different types of cancer, including head and neck cancer, the role of SK2 in the development and progression of oral cancer is still poorly understood. In order to elucidate SK2 role in oral cancer, we performed the overexpression of SK2 in non-tumor oral keratinocyte cell (NOK SK2) and in oral squamous cell carcinoma (HN12 SK2), and RNA interference for SK2 in another oral squamous cell carcinoma (HN13 shSK2). In our study we demonstrate for the first time that accumulation of SK2 can be a starting point for oncogenesis and transforms a non-tumor oral keratinocyte (NOK-SI) into highly aggressive tumor cells, even acting on cell plasticity. Furthermore, in oral metastatic cell line (HN12), SK2 contributed even more to the tumorigenesis, inducing proliferation and tumor growth. Our work reveals the intriguing role of SK2 as an oral tumor promoter and regulator of different pathways and cellular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lais Brigliadori Fugio
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Silva
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Lopes Ferraz
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Glauce Lunardelli Trevisan
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Borchers Coeli-Lacchini
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Bernadelli Garcia
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Oliveira Sousa
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tathiane Maistro Malta
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Damas Gil
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of the State of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andréia Machado Leopoldino
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Maines LW, Keller SN, Smith CD. Opaganib (ABC294640) Induces Immunogenic Tumor Cell Death and Enhances Checkpoint Antibody Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16901. [PMID: 38069222 PMCID: PMC10706694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-based cancer drugs that target the checkpoint proteins CTLA-4, PD-1 and PD-L1 provide marked improvement in some patients with deadly diseases such as lung cancer and melanoma. However, most patients are either unresponsive or relapse following an initial response, underscoring the need for further improvement in immunotherapy. Certain drugs induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells in which the dying cells promote immunologic responses in the host that may enhance the in vivo activity of checkpoint antibodies. Sphingolipid metabolism is a key pathway in cancer biology, in which ceramides and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) regulate tumor cell death, proliferation and drug resistance, as well as host inflammation and immunity. In particular, sphingosine kinases are key sites for manipulation of the ceramide/S1P balance that regulates tumor cell proliferation and sensitivity to radiation and chemotherapy. We and others have demonstrated that inhibition of sphingosine kinase-2 by the small-molecule investigational drug opaganib (formerly ABC294640) kills tumor cells and increases their sensitivities to other drugs and radiation. Because sphingolipids have been shown to regulate ICD, opaganib may induce ICD and improve the efficacy of checkpoint antibodies for cancer therapy. This was demonstrated by showing that in vitro treatment with opaganib increases the surface expression of the ICD marker calreticulin on a variety of tumor cell types. In vivo confirmation was achieved using the gold standard immunization assay in which B16 melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) or Neuro-2a neuroblastoma cells were treated with opaganib in vitro and then injected subcutaneously into syngeneic mice, followed by implantation of untreated tumor cells 7 days later. In all cases, immunization with opaganib-treated cells strongly suppressed the growth of subsequently injected tumor cells. Interestingly, opaganib treatment induced crossover immunity in that opaganib-treated B16 cells suppressed the growth of both untreated B16 and LLC cells and opaganib-treated LLC cells inhibited the growth of both untreated LLC and B16 cells. Next, the effects of opaganib in combination with a checkpoint antibody on tumor growth in vivo were assessed. Opaganib and anti-PD-1 antibody each slowed the growth of B16 tumors and improved mouse survival, while the combination of opaganib plus anti-PD-1 strongly suppressed tumor growth and improved survival (p < 0.0001). Individually, opaganib and anti-CTLA-4 antibody had modest effects on the growth of LLC tumors and mouse survival, whereas the combination of opaganib with anti-CTLA-4 substantially inhibited tumor growth and increased survival (p < 0.001). Finally, the survival of mice bearing B16 tumors was only marginally improved by opaganib or anti-PD-L1 antibody alone but was nearly doubled by the drugs in combination (p < 0.005). Overall, these studies demonstrate the ability of opaganib to induce ICD in tumor cells, which improves the antitumor activity of checkpoint antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Charles D. Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA 17036, USA; (L.W.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang F, Hilakivi-Clarke L, Shaha A, Wang Y, Wang X, Deng Y, Lai J, Kang N. Metabolic reprogramming and its clinical implication for liver cancer. Hepatology 2023; 78:1602-1624. [PMID: 36626639 PMCID: PMC10315435 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells often encounter hypoxic and hypo-nutrient conditions, which force them to make adaptive changes to meet their high demands for energy and various biomaterials for biomass synthesis. As a result, enhanced catabolism (breakdown of macromolecules for energy production) and anabolism (macromolecule synthesis from bio-precursors) are induced in cancer. This phenomenon is called "metabolic reprogramming," a cancer hallmark contributing to cancer development, metastasis, and drug resistance. HCC and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are 2 different liver cancers with high intertumoral heterogeneity in terms of etiologies, mutational landscapes, transcriptomes, and histological representations. In agreement, metabolism in HCC or CCA is remarkably heterogeneous, although changes in the glycolytic pathways and an increase in the generation of lactate (the Warburg effect) have been frequently detected in those tumors. For example, HCC tumors with activated β-catenin are addicted to fatty acid catabolism, whereas HCC tumors derived from fatty liver avoid using fatty acids. In this review, we describe common metabolic alterations in HCC and CCA as well as metabolic features unique for their subsets. We discuss metabolism of NAFLD as well, because NAFLD will likely become a leading etiology of liver cancer in the coming years due to the obesity epidemic in the Western world. Furthermore, we outline the clinical implication of liver cancer metabolism and highlight the computation and systems biology approaches, such as genome-wide metabolic models, as a valuable tool allowing us to identify therapeutic targets and develop personalized treatments for liver cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flora Yang
- BA/MD Joint Admission Scholars Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Leena Hilakivi-Clarke
- Food Science and Nutrition Section, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Aurpita Shaha
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Yuanguo Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Xianghu Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| | - Yibin Deng
- Department of Urology, Masonic Cancer Center, The University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jinping Lai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Ningling Kang
- Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis Section, the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mohammed S, Bindu A, Viswanathan A, Harikumar KB. Sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling during infection and immunity. Prog Lipid Res 2023; 92:101251. [PMID: 37633365 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2023.101251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are essential components of all eukaryotic membranes. The bioactive sphingolipid molecule, Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P), regulates various important biological functions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of S1P signaling pathway in various immune cell functions under different pathophysiological conditions including bacterial and viral infections, autoimmune disorders, inflammation, and cancer. We covered the aspects of S1P pathways in NOD/TLR pathways, bacterial and viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and tumor immunology. This implies that targeting S1P signaling can be used as a strategy to block these pathologies. Our current understanding of targeting various components of S1P signaling for therapeutic purposes and the present status of S1P pathway inhibitors or modulators in disease conditions where the host immune system plays a pivotal role is the primary focus of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabira Mohammed
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State 695014, India
| | - Anu Bindu
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State 695014, India
| | - Arun Viswanathan
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State 695014, India; Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal 576104, India
| | - Kuzhuvelil B Harikumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State 695014, India.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Afrin F, Mateen S, Oman J, Lai JCK, Barrott JJ, Pashikanti S. Natural Products and Small Molecules Targeting Cellular Ceramide Metabolism to Enhance Apoptosis in Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4645. [PMID: 37760612 PMCID: PMC10527029 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular targeting strategies have been used for years in order to control cancer progression and are often based on targeting various enzymes involved in metabolic pathways. Keeping this in mind, it is essential to determine the role of each enzyme in a particular metabolic pathway. In this review, we provide in-depth information on various enzymes such as ceramidase, sphingosine kinase, sphingomyelin synthase, dihydroceramide desaturase, and ceramide synthase which are associated with various types of cancers. We also discuss the physicochemical properties of well-studied inhibitors with natural product origins and their related structures in terms of these enzymes. Targeting ceramide metabolism exhibited promising mono- and combination therapies at preclinical stages in preventing cancer progression and cemented the significance of sphingolipid metabolism in cancer treatments. Targeting ceramide-metabolizing enzymes will help medicinal chemists design potent and selective small molecules for treating cancer progression at various levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farjana Afrin
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA; (F.A.); (S.M.); (J.O.); (J.C.K.L.)
| | - Sameena Mateen
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA; (F.A.); (S.M.); (J.O.); (J.C.K.L.)
| | - Jordan Oman
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA; (F.A.); (S.M.); (J.O.); (J.C.K.L.)
| | - James C. K. Lai
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA; (F.A.); (S.M.); (J.O.); (J.C.K.L.)
| | - Jared J. Barrott
- Cell Biology and Physiology, College of Life Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Srinath Pashikanti
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA; (F.A.); (S.M.); (J.O.); (J.C.K.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jin L, Zhu J, Yao L, Shen G, Xue BX, Tao W. Targeting SphK1/2 by SKI-178 inhibits prostate cancer cell growth. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:537. [PMID: 37604912 PMCID: PMC10442381 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06023-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Sphingosine kinases (SphK), including SphK1 and SphK2, are important enzymes promoting progression of prostate cancer. SKI-178 is a novel and highly potent SphK1/2 dual inhibitor. We here tested the potential anti-prostate cancer cell activity of SKI-178. Bioinformatics analyses and results from local tissues demonstrated that that both SphK1 and SphK2 are upregulated in human prostate cancer tissues. Ectopic overexpression of SphK1 and SphK2, by lentiviral constructs, promoted primary prostate cancer cell proliferation and migration. In primary human prostate cancer cells and immortalized cell lines, SKI-178 potently inhibited cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression and cell migration, causing robust cell death and apoptosis. SKI-178 impaired mitochondrial functions, causing mitochondrial depolarization, reactive oxygen species production and ATP depletion.SKI-178 potently inhibited SphK activity and induced ceramide production, without affecting SphK1/2 expression in prostate cancer cells. Further, SKI-178 inhibited Akt-mTOR activation and induced JNK activation in prostate cancer cells. Contrarily, a constitutively-active Akt1 construct or the pharmacological JNK inhibitors attenuated SKI-178-induced cytotoxicity in prostate cancer cells. In vivo, daily intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of SKI-178 potently inhibited PC-3 xenograft growth in nude mice. SphK inhibition, ceramide production, ATP depletion and lipid peroxidation as well as Akt-mTOR inactivation and JNK activation were detected in PC-3 xenograft tissues with SKI-178 administration. Together, targeting SphK1/2 by SKI-178 potently inhibited prostate cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Jin
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jin Zhu
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Linya Yao
- Department of Urology, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Kunshan, China
| | - Gang Shen
- Department of Urology, DUSHU Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Bo-Xin Xue
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Wei Tao
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Shi M, Tang C, Wu JX, Ji BW, Gong BM, Wu XH, Wang X. Mass Spectrometry Detects Sphingolipid Metabolites for Discovery of New Strategy for Cancer Therapy from the Aspect of Programmed Cell Death. Metabolites 2023; 13:867. [PMID: 37512574 PMCID: PMC10384871 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13070867] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids, a type of bioactive lipid, play crucial roles within cells, serving as integral components of membranes and exhibiting strong signaling properties that have potential therapeutic implications in anti-cancer treatments. However, due to the diverse group of lipids and intricate mechanisms, sphingolipids still face challenges in enhancing the efficacy of different therapy approaches. In recent decades, mass spectrometry has made significant advancements in uncovering sphingolipid biomarkers and elucidating their impact on cancer development, progression, and resistance. Primary sphingolipids, such as ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate, exhibit contrasting roles in regulating cancer cell death and survival. The evasion of cell death is a characteristic hallmark of cancer cells, leading to treatment failure and a poor prognosis. The escape initiates with long-established apoptosis and extends to other programmed cell death (PCD) forms when patients experience chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or immunotherapy. Gradually, supportive evidence has uncovered the fundamental molecular mechanisms underlying various forms of PCD leading to the development of innovative molecular, genetic, and pharmacological tools that specifically target sphingolipid signaling nodes. In this study, we provide a comprehensive overview of the sphingolipid biomarkers revealed through mass spectrometry in recent decades, as well as an in-depth analysis of the six main forms of PCD (apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, necroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis) in aspects of tumorigenesis, metastasis, and tumor response to treatments. We review the corresponding small-molecule compounds associated with these processes and their potential implications in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and National Center for International Research of Development and Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Institute of Developmental Biology and Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Chao Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jia-Xing Wu
- SINO-SWISS Institute of Advanced Technology, School of Microelectronics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Bao-Wei Ji
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bao-Ming Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and National Center for International Research of Development and Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Institute of Developmental Biology and Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and National Center for International Research of Development and Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Institute of Developmental Biology and Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and National Center for International Research of Development and Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Institute of Developmental Biology and Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mebarek S, Skafi N, Brizuela L. Targeting Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Metabolism as a Therapeutic Avenue for Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2732. [PMID: 37345069 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102732] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. More than 65% of men diagnosed with PC are above 65. Patients with localized PC show high long-term survival, however with the disease progression into a metastatic form, it becomes incurable, even after strong radio- and/or chemotherapy. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid that participates in all the steps of oncogenesis including tumor cell proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and metastatic spread. The S1P-producing enzymes sphingosine kinases 1 and 2 (SK1 and SK2), and the S1P degrading enzyme S1P lyase (SPL), have been shown to be highly implicated in the onset, development, and therapy resistance of PC during the last 20 years. In this review, the most important studies demonstrating the role of S1P and S1P metabolic partners in PC are discussed. The different in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models of PC that were used to demonstrate the implication of S1P metabolism are especially highlighted. Furthermore, the most efficient molecules targeting S1P metabolism that are under preclinical and clinical development for curing PC are summarized. Finally, the possibility of targeting S1P metabolism alone or combined with other therapies in the foreseeable future as an alternative option for PC patients is discussed. Research Strategy: PubMed from INSB was used for article research. First, key words "prostate & sphingosine" were used and 144 articles were found. We also realized other combinations of key words as "prostate cancer bone metastasis" and "prostate cancer treatment". We used the most recent reviews to illustrate prostate cancer topic and sphingolipid metabolism overview topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saida Mebarek
- CNRS UMR 5246, INSA Lyon, Institut de Chimie et Biochimie Moléculaires et Supramoléculaires (ICBMS), 69622 Lyon, France
| | - Najwa Skafi
- CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, University of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 43 Bd 11 Novembre 1918, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Leyre Brizuela
- CNRS UMR 5246, INSA Lyon, Institut de Chimie et Biochimie Moléculaires et Supramoléculaires (ICBMS), 69622 Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Targeting Human Proteins for Antiviral Drug Discovery and Repurposing Efforts: A Focus on Protein Kinases. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020568. [PMID: 36851782 PMCID: PMC9966946 DOI: 10.3390/v15020568] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great technological and medical advances in fighting viral diseases, new therapies for most of them are still lacking, and existing antivirals suffer from major limitations regarding drug resistance and a limited spectrum of activity. In fact, most approved antivirals are directly acting antiviral (DAA) drugs, which interfere with viral proteins and confer great selectivity towards their viral targets but suffer from resistance and limited spectrum. Nowadays, host-targeted antivirals (HTAs) are on the rise, in the drug discovery and development pipelines, in academia and in the pharmaceutical industry. These drugs target host proteins involved in the virus life cycle and are considered promising alternatives to DAAs due to their broader spectrum and lower potential for resistance. Herein, we discuss an important class of HTAs that modulate signal transduction pathways by targeting host kinases. Kinases are considered key enzymes that control virus-host interactions. We also provide a synopsis of the antiviral drug discovery and development pipeline detailing antiviral kinase targets, drug types, therapeutic classes for repurposed drugs, and top developing organizations. Furthermore, we detail the drug design and repurposing considerations, as well as the limitations and challenges, for kinase-targeted antivirals, including the choice of the binding sites, physicochemical properties, and drug combinations.
Collapse
|
22
|
Weigel C, Maczis MA, Palladino END, Green CD, Maceyka M, Guo C, Wang XY, Dozmorov MG, Milstien S, Spiegel S. Sphingosine Kinase 2 in Stromal Fibroblasts Creates a Hospitable Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2023; 83:553-567. [PMID: 36541910 PMCID: PMC9931683 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Reciprocal interactions between breast cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) are important for cancer progression and metastasis. We report here that the deletion or inhibition of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), which produces sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), markedly suppresses syngeneic breast tumor growth and lung metastasis in mice by creating a hostile microenvironment for tumor growth and invasion. SphK2 deficiency decreased S1P and concomitantly increased ceramides, including C16-ceramide, in stromal fibroblasts. Ceramide accumulation suppressed activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) by upregulating stromal p53, which restrained production of tumor-promoting factors to reprogram the TME and to restrict breast cancer establishment. Ablation of p53 in SphK2-deficient fibroblasts reversed these effects, enabled CAF activation and promoted tumor growth and invasion. These data uncovered a novel role of SphK2 in regulating non-cell-autonomous functions of p53 in stromal fibroblasts and their transition to tumor-promoting CAFs, paving the way for the development of a strategy to target the TME and to enhance therapeutic efficacy. SIGNIFICANCE Sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) facilitates the activation of stromal fibroblasts to tumor-promoting cancer-associated fibroblasts by suppressing host p53 activity, revealing SphK2 as a potential target to reprogram the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Weigel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Melissa A. Maczis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Elisa N. D. Palladino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Christopher D. Green
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Michael Maceyka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Chunqing Guo
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Xiang-Yang Wang
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Mikhail G. Dozmorov
- Departments of Biostatistics and Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Sheldon Milstien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Sarah Spiegel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kang Y, Sundaramoorthy P, Gasparetto C, Feinberg D, Fan S, Long G, Sellars E, Garrett A, Tuchman SA, Reeves BN, Li Z, Liu B, Ogretmen B, Maines L, Ben-Yair VK, Smith C, Plasse T. Phase I study of opaganib, an oral sphingosine kinase 2-specific inhibitor, in relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma. Ann Hematol 2023; 102:369-383. [PMID: 36460794 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-022-05056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease and there is an unmet medical need for novel therapeutic drugs that do not share similar mechanisms of action with currently available agents. Sphingosine kinase 2 (SK2) is an innovative molecular target for anticancer therapy. We previously reported that treatment with SK2 inhibitor opaganib inhibited myeloma tumor growth in vitro and in vivo in a mouse xenograft model. In the current study, we performed a phase I study of opaganib in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Thirteen patients with RRMM previously treated with immunomodulatory agents and proteasome inhibitors were enrolled and treated with single-agent opaganib at three oral dosing regimens (250 mg BID, 500 mg BID, or 750 mg BID, 28 days as a cycle). Safety and maximal tolerated dose (MTD) were determined. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and correlative studies were also performed. Opaganib was well tolerated up to a dose of 750 mg BID. The most common possibly related adverse event (AE) was decreased neutrophil counts. There were no serious AEs considered to be related to opaganib. MTD was determined as at least 750 mg BID. On an intent-to-treat basis, one patient (7.7%) in the 500 mg BID dose cohort showed a very good partial response, and one other patient (7.7%) achieved stable disease for 3 months. SK2 is an innovative molecular target for antimyeloma therapy. The first-in-class SK2 inhibitor opaganib is generally safe for administration to RRMM patients, and has potential therapeutic activity in these patients. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02757326.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yubin Kang
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA.
| | - Pasupathi Sundaramoorthy
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Cristina Gasparetto
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Daniel Feinberg
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Shengjun Fan
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Gwynn Long
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Emily Sellars
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Anderson Garrett
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2400 Pratt Street, Suite 5000, Durham, NC, DUMC 396127710, USA
| | - Sascha A Tuchman
- Division of Hematology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Brandi N Reeves
- Division of Hematology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Zhiguo Li
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bei Liu
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Besim Ogretmen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Lynn Maines
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
| | | | - Charles Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Scheinberg T, Mak B, Butler L, Selth L, Horvath LG. Targeting lipid metabolism in metastatic prostate cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231152839. [PMID: 36743527 PMCID: PMC9893394 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231152839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite key advances in the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa), a proportion of men have de novo resistance, and all will develop resistance to current therapeutics over time. Aberrant lipid metabolism has long been associated with prostate carcinogenesis and progression, but more recently there has been an explosion of preclinical and clinical data which is informing new clinical trials. This review explores the epidemiological links between obesity and metabolic syndrome and PCa, the evidence for altered circulating lipids in PCa and their potential role as biomarkers, as well as novel therapeutic strategies for targeting lipids in men with PCa, including therapies widely used in cardiovascular disease such as statins, metformin and lifestyle modification, as well as novel targeted agents such as sphingosine kinase inhibitors, DES1 inhibitors and agents targeting FASN and beta oxidation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tahlia Scheinberg
- Medical Oncology, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown NSW, Australia,Advanced Prostate Cancer Group, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia,University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Blossom Mak
- Medical Oncology, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown NSW, Australia,Advanced Prostate Cancer Group, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia,University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa Butler
- Prostate Cancer Research Group, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia,South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute and Freemason’s Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke Selth
- South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute and Freemason’s Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia,Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Labs, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia,Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health, Bedford Park, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Limbu KR, Chhetri RB, Oh YS, Baek DJ, Park EY. Mebendazole Impedes the Proliferation and Migration of Pancreatic Cancer Cells through SK1 Inhibition Dependent Pathway. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238127. [PMID: 36500220 PMCID: PMC9739667 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the highest mortality rates and requires the development of highly efficacious medications that can improve the efficiency of existing treatment methods. In particular, in PDAC, resistance to conventional chemotherapy reduces the effectiveness of anticancer drugs, decreasing the therapeutic efficiency. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), produced by sphingosine kinase (SK), plays a vital role in cancer growth, metastasis, chemotherapy, and drug resistance. Focusing on the structural characteristics of mebendazole (MBZ), we studied whether MBZ would affect metastasis, invasion, and drug resistance in cancer by lowering S1P production through inhibition of SK activity. MBZ selectively inhibited SK1 more than SK2 and regulated the levels of sphingolipids. MBZ inhibited the proliferation and migration of cancer cells in other PDAC cell lines. To determine whether the effect of MBZ on cancer cell growth and migration is S1P-mediated, S1P was treated, and the growth and migration of cancer cells were observed. It was found that MBZ inhibited S1P-induced cancer cell growth, and MBZ showed a growth inhibitory effect by regulating the JAK2/STAT3/Bcl-2 pathway. The phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a transcription factor that regulates migration, was inhibited by MBZ, so it was found that the effect of MBZ regulates the migration of cancer cells through the S1P/FAK/vimentin pathway. In conclusion, our study suggests that the anthelmintic MBZ can be used as a potential therapeutic agent for treating PDAC and for structural synthesis studies of its analogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khem Raj Limbu
- College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Mokpo 58554, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Yoon Sin Oh
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Eulji University, Seongnam 13135, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Jae Baek
- College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Mokpo 58554, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (D.J.B.); (E.-Y.P.)
| | - Eun-Young Park
- College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Mokpo 58554, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (D.J.B.); (E.-Y.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Maines LW, Green CL, Keller SN, Fitzpatrick LR, Smith CD. The Sphingosine Kinase 2 Inhibitor Opaganib Protects Against Acute Kidney Injury in Mice. Int J Nephrol Renovasc Dis 2022; 15:323-334. [PMID: 36420520 PMCID: PMC9677921 DOI: 10.2147/ijnrd.s386396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common multifactorial adverse effect of surgery, circulatory obstruction, sepsis or drug/toxin exposure that often results in morbidity and mortality. Sphingolipid metabolism is a critical regulator of cell survival and pathologic inflammation processes involved in AKI. Opaganib (also known as ABC294640) is a first-in-class experimental drug targeting sphingolipid metabolism that reduces the production and activity of inflammatory cytokines and, therefore, may be effective to prevent and treat AKI. Methods Murine models of AKI were used to assess the in vivo efficacy of opaganib including ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury induced by either transient bilateral occlusion of renal blood flow (a moderate model) or nephrectomy followed immediately by occlusion of the contralateral kidney (a severe model) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis. Biochemical and histologic assays were used to quantify the effects of oral opaganib treatment on renal damage in these models. Results Opaganib suppressed the elevations of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), as well as granulocyte infiltration into the kidneys, of mice that experienced moderate IR from transient bilateral ligation. Opaganib also markedly decreased these parameters and completely prevented mortality in the severe renal IR model. Additionally, opaganib blunted the elevations of BUN, creatinine and inflammatory cytokines following exposure to LPS. Conclusion The data support the hypotheses that sphingolipid metabolism is a key mediator of renal inflammatory damage following IR injury and sepsis, and that this can be suppressed by opaganib. Because opaganib has already undergone clinical testing in other diseases (cancer and Covid-19), the present studies support conducting clinical trials with this drug with surgical or septic patients at risk for AKI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn W Maines
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Charles D Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
- Correspondence: Charles D Smith, Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, USA, Email
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Maines LW, Schrecengost RS, Zhuang Y, Keller SN, Smith RA, Green CL, Smith CD. Opaganib Protects against Radiation Toxicity: Implications for Homeland Security and Antitumor Radiotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13191. [PMID: 36361977 PMCID: PMC9655569 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to ionizing radiation (IR) is a lingering threat from accidental or terroristic nuclear events, but is also widely used in cancer therapy. In both cases, host inflammatory responses to IR damage normal tissue causing morbidity and possibly mortality to the victim/patient. Opaganib, a first-in-class inhibitor of sphingolipid metabolism, has broad anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. Opaganib elevates ceramide and reduces sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) in cells, conditions that increase the antitumor efficacy of radiation while concomitantly suppressing inflammatory damage to normal tissue. Therefore, opaganib may suppress toxicity from unintended IR exposure and improve patient response to chemoradiation. To test these hypotheses, we first examined the effects of opaganib on the toxicity and antitumor activity of radiation in mice exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) or IR with partial bone marrow shielding. Oral treatment with opaganib 2 h before TBI shifted the LD75 from 9.5 Gy to 11.5 Gy, and provided substantial protection against gastrointestinal damage associated with suppression of radiation-induced elevations of S1P and TNFα in the small intestines. In the partially shielded model, opaganib provided dose-dependent survival advantages when administered 4 h before or 24 h after radiation exposure, and was particularly effective when given both prior to and following radiation. Relevant to cancer radiotherapy, opaganib decreased the sensitivity of IEC6 (non-transformed mouse intestinal epithelial) cells to radiation, while sensitizing PAN02 cells to in vitro radiation. Next, the in vivo effects of opaganib in combination with radiation were examined in a syngeneic tumor model consisting of C57BL/6 mice bearing xenografts of PAN02 pancreatic cancer cells and a cross-species xenograft model consisting of nude mice bearing xenografts of human FaDu cells. Mice were treated with opaganib and/or IR (plus cisplatin in the case of FaDu tumors). In both tumor models, the optimal suppression of tumor growth was attained by the combination of opaganib with IR (± cisplatin). Overall, opaganib substantially protects normal tissue from radiation damage that may occur through unintended exposure or cancer radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Charles D. Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA 17036, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Raza Y, Atallah J, Luberto C. Advancements on the Multifaceted Roles of Sphingolipids in Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12745. [PMID: 36361536 PMCID: PMC9654982 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism plays a complex role in hematological malignancies, beginning with the first historical link between sphingolipids and apoptosis discovered in HL-60 leukemic cells. Numerous manuscripts have reviewed the field including the early discoveries that jumpstarted the studies. Many studies discussed here support a role for sphingolipids, such as ceramide, in combinatorial therapeutic regimens to enhance anti-leukemic effects and reduce resistance to standard therapies. Additionally, inhibitors of specific nodes of the sphingolipid pathway, such as sphingosine kinase inhibitors, significantly reduce leukemic cell survival in various types of leukemias. Acid ceramidase inhibitors have also shown promising results in acute myeloid leukemia. As the field moves rapidly, here we aim to expand the body of literature discussed in previously published reviews by focusing on advances reported in the latter part of the last decade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasharah Raza
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Jane Atallah
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Chiara Luberto
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pal P, Atilla-Gokcumen GE, Frasor J. Emerging Roles of Ceramides in Breast Cancer Biology and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911178. [PMID: 36232480 PMCID: PMC9569866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the classic hallmarks of cancer is the imbalance between elevated cell proliferation and reduced cell death. Ceramide, a bioactive sphingolipid that can regulate this balance, has long been implicated in cancer. While the effects of ceramide on cell death and therapeutic efficacy are well established, emerging evidence indicates that ceramide turnover to downstream sphingolipids, such as sphingomyelin, hexosylceramides, sphingosine-1-phosphate, and ceramide-1-phosphate, is equally important in driving pro-tumorigenic phenotypes, such as proliferation, survival, migration, stemness, and therapy resistance. The complex and dynamic sphingolipid network has been extensively studied in several cancers, including breast cancer, to find key sphingolipidomic alterations that can be exploited to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. Here, we review how the current literature shapes our understanding of how ceramide synthesis and turnover are altered in breast cancer and how these changes offer potential strategies to improve breast cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Purab Pal
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - G. Ekin Atilla-Gokcumen
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
- Correspondence: (G.E.A.-G.); (J.F.)
| | - Jonna Frasor
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence: (G.E.A.-G.); (J.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Jiang Y, Zhao T, Zhou X, Xiang Y, Gutierrez‐Castrellon P, Ma X. Inflammatory pathways in COVID-19: Mechanism and therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e154. [PMID: 35923762 PMCID: PMC9340488 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has become a global crisis. In the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 infection induces an excessive inflammatory response in patients, causing an inflammatory cytokine storm in severe cases. Cytokine storm leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary and other multiorgan failure, which is an important cause of COVID-19 progression and even death. Among them, activation of inflammatory pathways is a major factor in generating cytokine storms and causing dysregulated immune responses, which is closely related to the severity of viral infection. Therefore, elucidation of the inflammatory signaling pathway of SARS-CoV-2 is important in providing otential therapeutic targets and treatment strategies against COVID-19. Here, we discuss the major inflammatory pathways in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, including induction, function, and downstream signaling, as well as existing and potential interventions targeting these cytokines or related signaling pathways. We believe that a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory pathways of COVID-19 immune dysregulation and inflammation will help develop better clinical therapy strategies to effectively control inflammatory diseases, such as COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Jiang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug TargetState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Tingmei Zhao
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug TargetState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Xueyan Zhou
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug TargetState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyNational Clinical Research Center for GeriatricsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Yu Xiang
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Pedro Gutierrez‐Castrellon
- Center for Translational Research on Health Science Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea GonzalezMinistry of HealthMexico CityMexico
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Smith CD, Maines LW, Keller SN, Katz Ben-Yair V, Fathi R, Plasse TF, Levitt ML. Recent Progress in the Development of Opaganib for the Treatment of Covid-19. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:2199-2211. [PMID: 35855741 PMCID: PMC9288228 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s367612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic driven by the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to exert extensive humanitarian and economic stress across the world. Although antivirals active against mild disease have been identified recently, new drugs to treat moderate and severe Covid-19 patients are needed. Sphingolipids regulate key pathologic processes, including viral proliferation and pathologic host inflammation. Opaganib (aka ABC294640) is a first-in-class clinical drug targeting sphingolipid metabolism for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Recent work demonstrates that opaganib also has antiviral activity against several viruses including SARS-CoV-2. A recently completed multinational Phase 2/3 clinical trial of opaganib in patients hospitalized with Covid-19 demonstrated that opaganib can be safely administered to these patients, and more importantly, resulted in a 62% decrease in mortality in a large subpopulation of patients with moderately severe Covid-19. Furthermore, acceleration of the clearance of the virus was observed in opaganib-treated patients. Understanding the biochemical mechanism for the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of opaganib is essential for optimizing Covid-19 treatment protocols. Opaganib inhibits three key enzymes in sphingolipid metabolism: sphingosine kinase-2 (SK2); dihydroceramide desaturase (DES1); and glucosylceramide synthase (GCS). Herein, we describe a tripartite model by which opaganib suppresses infection and replication of SARS-CoV-2 by inhibiting SK2, DES1 and GCS. The potential impact of modulation of sphingolipid signaling on multi-organ dysfunction in Covid-19 patients is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles D Smith
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
- Correspondence: Charles D Smith, Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, 1214 Research Blvd, Suite 2015, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, USA, Tel +1 843 814 9257, Email
| | - Lynn W Maines
- Apogee Biotechnology Corporation, Hummelstown, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kim SB, Kim KJ, Shrestha J, Oh YS, Lee JY, Lee S, Park EY, Baek DJ. Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of Fingolimod (FTY720) Analogs with Various Amide Head Groups. Pharm Chem J 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11094-022-02659-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
33
|
Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Lung Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic Target. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:9099612. [PMID: 35799611 PMCID: PMC9256431 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9099612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are important bioactive lipids that not only play an important role in maintaining the barrier function and fluidity of cell membranes but also regulate multiple processes in cancer development by controlling multiple signaling pathways in the signal transduction network. Dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism is thought to be one of the most important dysregulated pathways in lung cancer, the most prevalent type of cancer in terms of incidence and mortality worldwide. This article focuses on lung cancer, reviewing the important lipids in sphingolipid metabolism and the related enzymes in relation to lung cancer progression and their effects on the tumor microenvironment and discussing their roles in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
Collapse
|
34
|
Petrusca DN, Lee KP, Galson DL. Role of Sphingolipids in Multiple Myeloma Progression, Drug Resistance, and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets. Front Oncol 2022; 12:925807. [PMID: 35756630 PMCID: PMC9213658 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.925807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incapacitating hematological malignancy characterized by accumulation of cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow (BM) and production of an abnormal monoclonal protein (M-protein). The BM microenvironment has a key role in myeloma development by facilitating the growth of the aberrant plasma cells, which eventually interfere with the homeostasis of the bone cells, exacerbating osteolysis and inhibiting osteoblast differentiation. Recent recognition that metabolic reprograming has a major role in tumor growth and adaptation to specific changes in the microenvironmental niche have led to consideration of the role of sphingolipids and the enzymes that control their biosynthesis and degradation as critical mediators of cancer since these bioactive lipids have been directly linked to the control of cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis, among other cellular functions. In this review, we present the recent progress of the research investigating the biological implications of sphingolipid metabolism alterations in the regulation of myeloma development and its progression from the pre-malignant stage and discuss the roles of sphingolipids in in MM migration and adhesion, survival and proliferation, as well as angiogenesis and invasion. We introduce the current knowledge regarding the role of sphingolipids as mediators of the immune response and drug-resistance in MM and tackle the new developments suggesting the manipulation of the sphingolipid network as a novel therapeutic direction for MM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela N Petrusca
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Kelvin P Lee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.,Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Deborah L Galson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, HCC Research Pavilion, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
A Novel Sphingosine Kinase Inhibitor Suppresses Chikungunya Virus Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061123. [PMID: 35746595 PMCID: PMC9229564 DOI: 10.3390/v14061123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging arbovirus in the alphavirus genus. Upon infection, it can cause severe joint pain that can last years in some patients, significantly affecting their quality of life. Currently, there are no vaccines or anti-viral therapies available against CHIKV. Its spread to the Americas from the eastern continents has substantially increased the count of the infected by millions. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify therapeutic targets for CHIKV treatment. A potential point of intervention is the sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) pathway. Conversion of sphingosine to S1P is catalyzed by Sphingosine kinases (SKs), which we previously showed to be crucial pro-viral host factor during CHIKV infection. In this study, we screened inhibitors of SKs and identified a novel potent inhibitor of CHIKV infection—SLL3071511. We showed that the pre-treatment of cells with SLL3071511 in vitro effectively inhibited CHIKV infection with an EC50 value of 2.91 µM under both prophylactic and therapeutic modes, significantly decreasing the viral gene expression and release of viral particles. Our studies suggest that targeting SKs is a viable approach for controlling CHIKV replication.
Collapse
|
36
|
Winthrop KL, Skolnick AW, Rafiq AM, Beegle SH, Suszanski J, Koehne G, Barnett-Griness O, Bibliowicz A, Fathi R, Anderson P, Raday G, Eagle G, Katz Ben-Yair V, Minkowitz HS, Levitt ML, Gordon MS. Opaganib in COVID-19 pneumonia: Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 2a trial. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac232. [PMID: 35832268 PMCID: PMC9129144 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Opaganib, an oral sphingosine kinase-2 inhibitor with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, was shown to inhibit severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 replication in vitro. We thus considered that opaganib could be beneficial for moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. The objective of the study was to evaluate the safety of opaganib and its effect on supplemental oxygen requirements and time to hospital discharge in COVID-19 pneumonia hospitalized patients requiring supplemental oxygen. Methods This Phase 2a, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted between July and December 2020 in 8 sites in the United States. Forty-two enrolled patients received opaganib (n = 23) or placebo (n = 19) added to standard of care for up to 14 days and were followed up for 28 days after their last dose of opaganib/placebo. Results There were no safety concerns arising in this study. The incidence of ≥Grade 3 treatment-emergent adverse events was 17.4% and 33.3% in the opaganib and placebo groups, respectively. Three deaths occurred in each group. A numerical advantage for opaganib over placebo was observed in in this nonpowered study reflected by total supplemental oxygen requirement from baseline to Day 14, the requirement for supplemental oxygen for at least 24 hours by Day 14, and hospital discharge. Conclusions In this proof-of-concept study, hypoxic, hospitalized patients receiving oral opaganib had a similar safety profile to placebo-treated patients, with preliminary evidence of benefit for opaganib as measured by supplementary oxygen requirement and earlier hospital discharge. These findings support further evaluation of opaganib in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Reza Fathi
- RedHill Biopharma Ltd., Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | - Gina Eagle
- G.E.T Pharma Consulting LLC, Lambertville, NJ, US
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Gu M, Pan B, Chen W, Xu H, Wu X, Hu X, Zheng L, Ye Y, Meng Q, Xian G, Zhang Z, Sheng P. SPHK Inhibitors and Zoledronic Acid Suppress Osteoclastogenesis and Wear Particle-Induced Osteolysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:794429. [PMID: 35237148 PMCID: PMC8883393 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.794429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inflammatory osteolysis induced by wear particles is the major cause of prosthetic loosening after artificial joint replacement, and its prevention and treatment are difficult worldwide. Our previous study confirmed that sphingosine kinases (SPHKs) are important mediators regulating the wear particle-induced macrophage inflammatory response. However, it is unclear whether SPHKs can modulate chronic inflammation and alleviate osteolysis. Zoledronic acid (ZA), an imidazole-containing bisphosphonate, directly affects osteoclasts and prevents bone mineral-related diseases. However, the effects of SPHK inhibitors and ZA used to treat periprosthetic osteolysis are unknown. Methods: We applied tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining to evaluate bone destruction in the interface membranes of patients with aseptic loosening and a control group. A murine calvarial osteolysis model was used to examine the preventative effect of SPHK inhibitors and ZA on osteolysis. Micro-CT scanning, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and histomorphometric analysis were conducted to determine the variations in inflammatory osteolysis. The effects of different drug concentrations on cell viability were evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was performed to confirm the reduced expression of osteoclast-specific genes after drug and titanium treatment. The osteoclast formation and functions of the drugs were analyzed using TRAP staining in vivo and in vitro. The effect of SPHKs/S1P-TRAF2-BECN1 signaling pathways was verified via RT-qPCR and tissue IHC. Results: In this study, we found that SPHK inhibitors (ABC294640 and FTY720) combined with ZA decreased the degree of inflammatory osteolysis in vivo. However, ABC294640 and ZA suppressed osteoclast differentiation and osteoclast-specific genes in vitro. SPHKs regulate the inflammatory osteolysis induced by wear particles by increasing the expression of SPHKs/S1P-TRAF2-BECN1. Conclusion: Our study revealed that wear particles could induce inflammatory osteolysis by upregulating SPHKs/S1P-TRAF2-BECN1 and SPHK inhibitors/ZA inhibit osteoclastogenesis in vitro and prevent inflammatory osteolysis in vivo, suggesting that SPHK inhibitors and ZA can be a new perspective and scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of prosthesis loosening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Gu
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baiqi Pan
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weishen Chen
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuantao Hu
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linli Zheng
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongyu Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Meng
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Orthopedics, Guizhou Orthopedics Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Guoyan Xian
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Université de Paris, CNRS, INSERM, B3OA, Paris, France
| | - Ziji Zhang
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Puyi Sheng
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Tanaka Y, Okabe S, Ohyashiki K, Gotoh A. Potential of a sphingosine 1‑phosphate receptor antagonist and sphingosine kinase inhibitors as targets for multiple myeloma treatment. Oncol Lett 2022; 23:111. [PMID: 35251342 PMCID: PMC8850960 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid involved in cancer progression through its binding to S1P receptors (S1PRs). However, the association between multiple myeloma (MM) and S1P is unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the potential anti-cancer effects of fingolimod and sphingosine kinase (SK) inhibitors in myeloma cells and the effects of S1P-induced chemoresistance and neovascularization on MM cell proliferation. MM cell lines were treated with the S1PR1 antagonist fingolimod and the SK inhibitors ABC294640 and SK1-I, after which cell proliferation was measured. Protein expression was also assessed under each condition using immunoblotting. Serum S1P levels in patients with MM, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and healthy volunteers were assessed. Human umbilical vessel cells (HUVECs) were co-cultured with anti-S1P agents to assess the effect on cell migration. All treatments suppressed myeloma cell proliferation and caspase-3-mediated apoptosis by suppressing S1P activity. These findings suggest that S1P activation is associated with proliferation and survival for MM cells. S1P attenuated the proteosome inhibitor (PI) effect, while the anti-S1P agents recovered the effect. In addition, S1P promoted the migration and proliferation of HUVECs, whereas the S1P inhibitors reduced the influence of S1P. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of anti-S1P agents for MM treatment. Inhibition of S1P function may overcome resistance to PI developed by myeloma cells and inhibit the changes to the bone marrow microenvironment via neovascularization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Tanaka
- Division of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| | - Seiichi Okabe
- Division of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| | - Kazuma Ohyashiki
- Division of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| | - Akihiko Gotoh
- Division of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160‑0023, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Revealing 2-Dimethylhydrazino-2-alkyl alkynyl sphingosine derivatives as Sphingosine Kinase 2 inhibitors: some hints on the structural basis for selective inhibition. Bioorg Chem 2022; 121:105668. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
40
|
Dai L, Wang C, Wang W, Song K, Ye T, Zhu J, Di W. Activation of SphK2 contributes to adipocyte-induced EOC cell proliferation. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:229-238. [PMID: 35178477 PMCID: PMC8812714 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of deaths due to cancer in women. Adipocytes have been suggested to play a key role in the stimulation of EOC growth. However, the mechanisms underlying the adipocyte-induced EOC proliferation remain undefined. Here, we provide the first evidence that adipocytes induce the activation of sphingosine kinase (SphK) 2 in EOC, which represents a novel pathway that mediates the adipocyte-induced EOC growth. SphK2 inhibition in EOC cells led to a remarkable inhibition of the adipocyte-induced cell proliferation. Moreover, the adipocyte-induced SphK2 activation in EOC cells was extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases (ERK) dependent. Furthermore, silencing SphK2 in EOC significantly inhibited the adipocyte-induced expression of phospho-ERK and c-Myc, two crucial players in EOC growth. Collectively, the current study unraveled a previously unrecognized role of SphK2 in the adipocyte-induced growth-promoting action in EOC, suggesting a novel target for EOC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Keqi Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Taiyang Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| | - Wen Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
- Department of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai 200127 , China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Urokinase and Its Receptor in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030498. [PMID: 35158766 PMCID: PMC8833673 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have ascertained that uPA and uPAR do participate in tumor progression and metastasis and are involved in cell adhesion, migration, invasion and survival, as well as angiogenesis. Increased levels of uPA and uPAR in tumor tissues, stroma and biological fluids correlate with adverse clinic-pathologic features and poor patient outcomes. After binding to uPAR, uPA activates plasminogen to plasmin, a broad-spectrum matrix- and fibrin-degrading enzyme able to facilitate tumor cell invasion and dissemination to distant sites. Moreover, uPAR activated by uPA regulates most cancer cell activities by interacting with a broad range of cell membrane receptors. These findings make uPA and uPAR not only promising diagnostic and prognostic markers but also attractive targets for developing anticancer therapies. In this review, we debate the uPA/uPAR structure-function relationship as well as give an update on the molecules that interfere with or inhibit uPA/uPAR functions. Additionally, the possible clinical development of these compounds is discussed.
Collapse
|
42
|
Pitman MR, Lewis AC, Davies LT, Moretti PAB, Anderson D, Creek DJ, Powell JA, Pitson SM. The sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 2/4 antagonist JTE-013 elicits off-target effects on sphingolipid metabolism. Sci Rep 2022; 12:454. [PMID: 35013382 PMCID: PMC8748775 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04009-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a signaling lipid that has broad roles, working either intracellularly through various protein targets, or extracellularly via a family of five G-protein coupled receptors. Agents that selectively and specifically target each of the S1P receptors have been sought as both biological tools and potential therapeutics. JTE-013, a small molecule antagonist of S1P receptors 2 and 4 (S1P2 and S1P4) has been widely used in defining the roles of these receptors in various biological processes. Indeed, our previous studies showed that JTE-013 had anti-acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) activity, supporting a role for S1P2 in the biology and therapeutic targeting of AML. Here we examined this further and describe lipidomic analysis of AML cells that revealed JTE-013 caused alterations in sphingolipid metabolism, increasing cellular ceramides, dihydroceramides, sphingosine and dihydrosphingosine. Further examination of the mechanisms behind these observations showed that JTE-013, at concentrations frequently used in the literature to target S1P2/4, inhibits several sphingolipid metabolic enzymes, including dihydroceramide desaturase 1 and both sphingosine kinases. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that JTE-013 can have broad off-target effects on sphingolipid metabolism and highlight that caution must be employed in interpreting the use of this reagent in defining the roles of S1P2/4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Pitman
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Alexander C Lewis
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lorena T Davies
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul A B Moretti
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dovile Anderson
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Darren J Creek
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jason A Powell
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Molecular Therapeutics Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia. .,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lemberg KM, Gori SS, Tsukamoto T, Rais R, Slusher BS. Clinical development of metabolic inhibitors for oncology. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e148550. [PMID: 34981784 PMCID: PMC8718137 DOI: 10.1172/jci148550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic inhibitors have been used in oncology for decades, dating back to antimetabolites developed in the 1940s. In the past 25 years, there has been increased recognition of metabolic derangements in tumor cells leading to a resurgence of interest in targeting metabolism. More recently there has been recognition that drugs targeting tumor metabolism also affect the often acidic, hypoxic, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and non-tumor cell populations within it, including immune cells. Here we review small-molecule metabolic inhibitors currently in clinical development for oncology applications. For each agent, we evaluate the preclinical studies demonstrating antitumor and TME effects and review ongoing clinical trials. The goal of this Review is to provide an overview of the landscape of metabolic inhibitors in clinical development for oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Lemberg
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Oncology and The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | | | - Takashi Tsukamoto
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
| | - Rana Rais
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
| | - Barbara S. Slusher
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Oncology and The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
- Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Loss of E-Cadherin Leads to Druggable Vulnerabilities in Sphingolipid Metabolism and Vesicle Trafficking. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010102. [PMID: 35008266 PMCID: PMC8749886 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Germline loss of the CDH1 gene is the primary genetic basis for hereditary diffuse gastric cancer, a disease resulting in elevated risk of both diffuse gastric cancer and lobular breast cancer. Current preventative treatment consists of prophylactic total gastrectomy, a therapy with several associated long-term morbidities. To address the lack of targeted molecular therapies for hereditary diffuse gastric cancer, we have utilized a synthetic lethal approach to identify candidate compounds that can specifically kill CDH1-null cells. Inhibitors of sphingolipid metabolism and vesicle trafficking pathways were identified as promising candidate compounds in a cell line model of CDH1 loss, then further validated in murine-derived organoid models of hereditary diffuse gastric cancer. With further research, these findings may lead to the development of novel chemoprevention strategies for the treatment of hereditary diffuse gastric cancer. Abstract Germline inactivating variants of CDH1 are causative of hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), a cancer syndrome characterized by an increased risk of both diffuse gastric cancer and lobular breast cancer. Because loss of function mutations are difficult to target therapeutically, we have taken a synthetic lethal approach to identify targetable vulnerabilities in CDH1-null cells. We have previously observed that CDH1-null MCF10A cells exhibit a reduced rate of endocytosis relative to wildtype MCF10A cells. To determine whether this deficiency is associated with wider vulnerabilities in vesicle trafficking, we screened isogenic MCF10A cell lines with known inhibitors of autophagy, endocytosis, and sphingolipid metabolism. Relative to wildtype MCF10A cells, CDH1−/− MCF10A cells showed significantly greater sensitivity to several drugs targeting these processes, including the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine, the endocytosis inhibitors chlorpromazine and PP1, and the sphingosine kinase 1 inhibitor PF-543. Synthetic lethality was confirmed in both gastric and mammary organoid models of CDH1 loss, derived from CD44-Cre/Cdh1fl/fl/tdTomato mice. Collectively, these results suggest that both sphingolipid metabolism and vesicle trafficking represent previously unrecognised druggable vulnerabilities in CDH1-null cells and may lead to the development of new therapies for HDGC.
Collapse
|
45
|
Lengacher R, Wang Y, Braband H, Blacque O, Gasser G, Alberto R. Organometallic small molecule kinase inhibitors - direct incorporation of Re and 99mTc into Opaganib®. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:13349-13352. [PMID: 34817478 PMCID: PMC8658909 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc03678e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
[(η5-Cp)ReI(CO)3] was incorporated into the kinase inhibitor Opaganib®. The resulting bioorganometallic complex showed a similar anti-cancer activity to Opaganib® against PC-3 cancer cells. The IC50 value for the kinase SK2 is 30x higher than that of Opaganib®. The 99mTc homologue was synthesized, completing a matched-pair for molecular theranostics. Replacing an adamantyl unit in the protein kinase inhibitor Opaganib® with an integrated [(η5-Cp)M(CO)3] (M = Re, 99mTc) unit retains the lead's bioactivity and yields a true matched-pair pharmacomimetic.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Youchao Wang
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Henrik Braband
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Olivier Blacque
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Gilles Gasser
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Roger Alberto
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Companioni O, Mir C, Garcia-Mayea Y, LLeonart ME. Targeting Sphingolipids for Cancer Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:745092. [PMID: 34737957 PMCID: PMC8560795 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.745092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are an extensive class of lipids with different functions in the cell, ranging from proliferation to cell death. Sphingolipids are modified in multiple cancers and are responsible for tumor proliferation, progression, and metastasis. Several inhibitors or activators of sphingolipid signaling, such as fenretinide, safingol, ABC294640, ceramide nanoliposomes (CNLs), SKI-II, α-galactosylceramide, fingolimod, and sonepcizumab, have been described. The objective of this review was to analyze the results from preclinical and clinical trials of these drugs for the treatment of cancer. Sphingolipid-targeting drugs have been tested alone or in combination with chemotherapy, exhibiting antitumor activity alone and in synergism with chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo. As a consequence of treatments, the most frequent mechanism of cell death is apoptosis, followed by autophagy. Aslthough all these drugs have produced good results in preclinical studies of multiple cancers, the outcomes of clinical trials have not been similar. The most effective drugs are fenretinide and α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). In contrast, minor adverse effects restricted to a few subjects and hepatic toxicity have been observed in clinical trials of ABC294640 and safingol, respectively. In the case of CNLs, SKI-II, fingolimod and sonepcizumab there are some limitations and absence of enough clinical studies to demonstrate a benefit. The effectiveness or lack of a major therapeutic effect of sphingolipid modulation by some drugs as a cancer therapy and other aspects related to their mechanism of action are discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osmel Companioni
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Mir
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoelsis Garcia-Mayea
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Matilde E LLeonart
- Biomedical Research in Cancer Stem Cells Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Network Center in Oncology, CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lin HM, Mak B, Yeung N, Huynh K, Meikle TG, Mellett NA, Kwan EM, Fettke H, Tran B, Davis ID, Mahon KL, Zhang A, Stockler MR, Briscoe K, Marx G, Crumbaker M, Stricker PD, Du P, Yu J, Jia S, Scheinberg T, Fitzpatrick M, Bonnitcha P, Sullivan DR, Joshua AM, Azad AA, Butler LM, Meikle PJ, Horvath LG. Overcoming enzalutamide resistance in metastatic prostate cancer by targeting sphingosine kinase. EBioMedicine 2021; 72:103625. [PMID: 34656931 PMCID: PMC8526762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intrinsic resistance to androgen receptor signalling inhibitors (ARSI) occurs in 20–30% of men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Ceramide metabolism may have a role in ARSI resistance. Our study's aim is to investigate the association of the ceramide-sphingosine-1-phosphate (ceramide-S1P) signalling axis with ARSI resistance in mCRPC. Methods Lipidomic analysis (∼700 lipids) was performed on plasma collected from 132 men with mCRPC, before commencing enzalutamide or abiraterone. AR gene aberrations in 77 of these men were identified by deep sequencing of circulating tumour DNA. Associations between circulating lipids, radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) and overall survival (OS) were examined by Cox regression. Inhibition of ceramide-S1P signalling with sphingosine kinase (SPHK) inhibitors (PF-543 and ABC294640) on enzalutamide efficacy was investigated with in vitro assays, and transcriptomic and lipidomic analyses of prostate cancer (PC) cell lines (LNCaP, C42B, 22Rv1). Findings Men with elevated circulating ceramide levels had shorter rPFS (HR=2·3, 95% CI=1·5–3·6, p = 0·0004) and shorter OS (HR=2·3, 95% CI=1·4–36, p = 0·0005). The combined presence of an AR aberration with elevated ceramide levels conferred a worse prognosis than the presence of only one or none of these characteristics (median rPFS time = 3·9 vs 8·3 vs 17·7 months; median OS time = 8·9 vs 19·8 vs 34·4 months). SPHK inhibitors enhanced enzalutamide efficacy in PC cell lines. Transcriptomic and lipidomic analyses indicated that enzalutamide combined with SPHK inhibition enhanced PC cell death by SREBP-induced lipotoxicity. Interpretation Ceramide-S1P signalling promotes ARSI resistance, which can be reversed with SPHK inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ming Lin
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Blossom Mak
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicole Yeung
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kevin Huynh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas G Meikle
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Edmond M Kwan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Heidi Fettke
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Tran
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ian D Davis
- Cancer Services, Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate L Mahon
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia; Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alison Zhang
- Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Martin R Stockler
- Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karen Briscoe
- Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gavin Marx
- Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Megan Crumbaker
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia; The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip D Stricker
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pan Du
- Predicine, Inc., Hayward, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Tahlia Scheinberg
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Paul Bonnitcha
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; NSW Health Pathology, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David R Sullivan
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; NSW Health Pathology, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony M Joshua
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia; The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Arun A Azad
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa M Butler
- Adelaide Medical School and Freemason's Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J Meikle
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa G Horvath
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia; Chris O' Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
The Role of Sphingomyelin Metabolism in the Protection of Rat Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells by Mild Hypothermia. Neurocrit Care 2021; 36:546-559. [PMID: 34508278 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01338-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sphingomyelin, composed of ceramide (CER), sphingosine (Sph), and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), is an essential structural component of cellular membranes and plays an important role in the signal transduction regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. CER is mainly metabolized to Sph, and under the action of sphingosine kinases (SphKs), Sph produces S1P, which can be converted back to Sph by S1P phosphatase. It is suggested that the fate of cells is controlled partly by the interconversion of CER and intracellular S1P. SphK2 is considered the main kinase of S1P synthesis in the central nervous system. The objective of this study was to explore the hypothesis that SphK2 and sphingomyelin metabolism participated in the process of cell apoptosis and the protection of mild hypothermia. METHODS Rat brain microvascular endothelial cells were divided into groups for intervention of SphK2 inhibitor, SphK2 small interfering RNA (SiRNA) transfection, ischemia-reperfusion, and mild hypothermia. After interventions, cell apoptosis was detected by 4,6-diamino-2-phenyl indole (DAPI) and flow cytometry, the expression of apoptosis-related protein was detected by Western Blot, and SphK2 enzyme activity and the content of sphingomyelin were determined. RESULTS ABC294640 and transfection of SphK2 SiRNA could increase apoptosis, accompanied by the increase of the expression of proapoptotic genes Caspase3 and Bax and the decrease of the expression of BCL-2. This effect could be partially reversed with mild hypothermia. Ischemia-reperfusion injury, transfection of SphK2 SiRNA, and the addition of ABC294640 could significantly inhibit the activity of SphK2, accompanied by the increase of CERs and the decrease of S1P. Mild hypothermia could reverse the changes of sphingolipids but have no significant effect on the activity of sphk2. CONCLUSIONS Mild hypothermia can inhibit the occurrence of apoptosis and reverse the changes of apoptosis-related genes and sphingomyelin content induced by ischemia-reperfusion injury, but the effect on sphk2 enzyme activity was not significant.
Collapse
|
49
|
Nduwumwami AJ, Hengst JA, Yun JK. Sphingosine Kinase Inhibition Enhances Dimerization of Calreticulin at the Cell Surface in Mitoxantrone-Induced Immunogenic Cell Death. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2021; 378:300-310. [PMID: 34158403 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.121.000629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Agents that induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) alter the cellular localization of calreticulin (CRT), causing it to become cell surface-exposed within the plasma membrane lipid raft microdomain [cell surface-exposed CRT (ectoCRT)] where it serves as a damage associated-molecular pattern that elicits an antitumor immune response. We have identified the sphingolipid metabolic pathway as an integral component of the process of ectoCRT exposure. Inhibition of the sphingosine kinases (SphKs) enhances mitoxantrone-induced production of hallmarks of ICD, including ectoCRT production, with an absolute mean difference of 40 MFI (95% CI: 19-62; P = 0.0014) and 1.3-fold increase of ATP secretion with an absolute mean difference of 87 RLU (95% CI: 55-120; P < 0.0001). Mechanistically, sphingosine kinase inhibition increases mitoxantrone-induced accumulation of ceramide species, including C16:0 ceramide 2.8-fold with an absolute mean difference of 1.390 pmol/nmol Pi (95% CI: 0.798-1.983; P = 0.0023). We further examined the localization of ectoCRT to the lipid raft microdomain and demonstrate that ectoCRT forms disulfide-bridged dimers. Together, our findings suggest that ceramide accumulation impinges on the homeostatic function of the endoplasmic reticulum to induce ectoCRT exposure and that structural alterations of ectoCRT may underlie its immunogenicity. Our findings further suggest that inhibition of the SphKs may represent a means to enhance the therapeutic immunogenic efficacy of ICD-inducing agents while reducing overt toxicity/immunosuppressive effects by allowing for the modification of dosing regimens or directly lowering the dosages of ICD-inducing agents employed in therapeutic regimens. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study demonstrates that inhibition of sphingosine kinase enhances the mitoxantrone-induced cell surface exposure of a dimeric form of the normally endoplasmic reticulum resident chaperone calreticulin as part of the process of a unique form of regulated cell death termed immunogenic cell death. Importantly, inhibition of sphingosine kinase may represent a means to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of immunogenic cell death-inducing agents, such as mitoxantrone, while reducing their overt toxicity and immunosuppressive effects, leading to better therapeutic outcomes for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asvelt J Nduwumwami
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeremy A Hengst
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Jong K Yun
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Strepkos D, Markouli M, Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG, Piperi C. Emerging roles for the YAP/TAZ transcriptional regulators in brain tumour pathology and targeting options. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2021; 48:e12762. [PMID: 34409639 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The transcriptional co-activators Yes-associated protein 1/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) have emerged as significant regulators of a wide variety of cellular and organ functions with impact in early embryonic development, especially during the expansion of the neural progenitor cell pool. YAP/TAZ signalling regulates organ size development, tissue homeostasis, wound healing and angiogenesis by participating in a complex network of various pathways. However, recent evidence suggests an association of these physiologic regulatory effects of YAP/TAZ with pro-oncogenic activities. Herein, we discuss the physiological functions of YAP/TAZ as well as the extensive network of signalling pathways that control their expression and activity, leading to brain tumour development and progression. Furthermore, we describe current targeting approaches and drug options including direct YAP/TAZ and YAP-TEA domain transcription factor (TEAD) interaction inhibitors, G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) signalling modulators and kinase inhibitors, which may be used to successfully attack YAP/TAZ-dependent tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Strepkos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|