1
|
Miao H, Chen D, Ropa J, Purohit T, Kim E, Sulis ML, Ferrando A, Cierpicki T, Grembecka J. Combination of menin and kinase inhibitors as an effective treatment for leukemia with NUP98 translocations. Leukemia 2024:10.1038/s41375-024-02312-9. [PMID: 38890447 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02312-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations of the nucleoporin 98 (NUP98) gene are found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients leading to very poor outcomes. The oncogenic activity of NUP98 fusion proteins is dependent on the interaction between Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1 and menin. NUP98-rearranged (NUP98-r) leukemia cells also rely on specific kinases, including CDK6 and/or FLT3, suggesting that simultaneous targeting of these kinases and menin could overcome limited sensitivity to single agents. Here, we found that combinations of menin inhibitor, MI-3454, with kinase inhibitors targeting either CDK6 (Palbociclib) or FLT3 (Gilteritinib) strongly enhance the anti-leukemic effect of menin inhibition in NUP98-r leukemia models. We found strong synergistic effects of both combinations on cell growth, colony formation and differentiation in patient samples with NUP98 translocations. These combinations also markedly augmented anti-leukemic efficacy of menin inhibitor in Patient Derived Xenograft models of NUP98-r leukemia. Despite inhibiting two unrelated kinases, when Palbociclib or Gilteritinib were combined with the menin inhibitor, they affected similar pathways relevant to leukemogenesis, including cell cycle regulation, cell proliferation and differentiation. This study provides strong rationale for clinical translation of the combination of menin and kinase inhibitors as novel treatments for NUP98-r leukemia, supporting the unexplored combinations of epigenetic drugs with kinase inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhi Miao
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - James Ropa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University, School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Trupta Purohit
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - EunGi Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Maria-Luisa Sulis
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Adolfo Ferrando
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Regeneron Genetics Center, Tarrytown, NY, 10591, USA
| | - Tomasz Cierpicki
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Jolanta Grembecka
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Malone CF, Mabe NW, Forman AB, Alexe G, Engel KL, Chen YJC, Soeung M, Salhotra S, Basanthakumar A, Liu B, Dent SYR, Stegmaier K. The KAT module of the SAGA complex maintains the oncogenic gene expression program in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadm9449. [PMID: 38820154 PMCID: PMC11141635 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adm9449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric cancers are frequently driven by genomic alterations that result in aberrant transcription factor activity. Here, we used functional genomic screens to identify multiple genes within the transcriptional coactivator Spt-Ada-Gcn5-acetyltransferase (SAGA) complex as selective dependencies for MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma, a disease of dysregulated development driven by an aberrant oncogenic transcriptional program. We characterized the DNA recruitment sites of the SAGA complex in neuroblastoma and the consequences of loss of SAGA complex lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) activity on histone acetylation and gene expression. We demonstrate that loss of SAGA complex KAT activity is associated with reduced MYCN binding on chromatin, suppression of MYC/MYCN gene expression programs, and impaired cell cycle progression. Further, we showed that the SAGA complex is pharmacologically targetable in vitro and in vivo with a KAT2A/KAT2B proteolysis targeting chimeric. Our findings expand our understanding of the histone-modifying complexes that maintain the oncogenic transcriptional state in this disease and suggest therapeutic potential for inhibitors of SAGA KAT activity in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare F Malone
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nathaniel W Mabe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexandra B Forman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gabriela Alexe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathleen L Engel
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ying-Jiun C Chen
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Melinda Soeung
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Silvi Salhotra
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Allen Basanthakumar
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sharon Y R Dent
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The Center for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Candoni A, Coppola G. A 2024 Update on Menin Inhibitors. A New Class of Target Agents against KMT2A-Rearranged and NPM1-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Hematol Rep 2024; 16:244-254. [PMID: 38651453 PMCID: PMC11036224 DOI: 10.3390/hematolrep16020024] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Menin inhibitors are new and promising agents currently in clinical development that target the HOX/MEIS1 transcriptional program which is critical for leukemogenesis in histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2A-rearranged (KMT2Ar) and in NPM1-mutated (NPM1mut) acute leukemias. The mechanism of action of this new class of agents is based on the disruption of the menin-KMT2A complex (consisting of chromatin remodeling proteins), leading to the differentiation and apoptosis of AML cells expressing KMT2A or with mutated NPM1. To date, this new class of drugs has been tested in phase I and II clinical trials, both alone and in combination with synergistic drugs showing promising results in terms of response rates and safety in heavily pre-treated acute leukemia patients. In this brief review, we summarize the key findings on menin inhibitors, focusing on the mechanism of action and preliminary clinical data on the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia with this promising new class of agents, particularly revumenib and ziftomenib.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Candoni
- Section of Haematology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41123 Modena, Italy;
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gao Y, Vakoc CR. Therapeutic index of targeting select chromatin complexes in human cancer patients. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 85:102162. [PMID: 38401489 PMCID: PMC11072572 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant chromatin regulation can promote the initiation and progression of human cancer. An improved understanding of such mechanisms has resulted in the identification of cancers with an enhanced dependency on specific chromatin regulatory proteins relative to nonmalignant cell types. Hence, targeting of such complexes with small molecules has significant therapeutic potential in oncology. In recent years, several drugs have been developed and evaluated in human cancer patients, which can influence tumor biology by reprogramming of chromatin structure. In this review, we summarize several of the known mechanisms that endow cancer cells with a powerful dependency on chromatin regulation that exceeds the requirements for normal tissue homeostasis. We also summarize the remarkable small-molecule inhibitors that exploit chromatin regulator dependencies with a clear therapeutic benefit in human cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Gao
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA. https://twitter.com/@yuangao_yg
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kulczycka M, Derlatka K, Tasior J, Sygacz M, Lejman M, Zawitkowska J. Infant Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia-New Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3721. [PMID: 38612531 PMCID: PMC11011884 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073721] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Infant ALL) is a kind of pediatric ALL, diagnosed in children under 1 year of age and accounts for less than 5% of pediatric ALL. In the infant ALL group, two subtypes can be distinguished: KMT2A-rearranged ALL, known as a more difficult to cure form and KMT2A- non-rearranged ALL with better survival outcomes. As infants with ALL have lesser treatment outcomes compared to older children, it is pivotal to provide novel treatment approaches. Progress in the development of molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapy presents exciting opportunities for potential improvement. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current literature on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, molecular genetics, and therapeutic approaches specific to ALL in the infant population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marika Kulczycka
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.K.); (K.D.); (J.T.); (M.S.)
| | - Kamila Derlatka
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.K.); (K.D.); (J.T.); (M.S.)
| | - Justyna Tasior
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.K.); (K.D.); (J.T.); (M.S.)
| | - Maja Sygacz
- Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.K.); (K.D.); (J.T.); (M.S.)
| | - Monika Lejman
- Independent Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bai H, Yang Z, Lei H, Wu Y, Liu J, Yuan B, Ma M, Gao L, Zhang SQ, Xin M. Discovery of novel pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines as potent menin-mixed lineage leukemia interaction inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116226. [PMID: 38367493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116226] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
To interfere the Menin-MLL interaction using small molecular inhibitors has been shown as new treatment of several special hematological malignancies. Herein, a series of Menin-MLL interaction inhibitors with pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine scaffold were designed, synthesized and evaluated. Among them, compound A6 exhibited potent binding affinity with an IC50 value of 0.38 μM, and strong anti-proliferative activity against MV4-11 cells with an IC50 value of 1.07 μM. Further study showed A6 reduced the transcriptional levels of HOXA9 and MEIS1 genes. Moreover, A6 induced cellular apoptosis, arrested the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase, and reversed the differentiation arrest in a concentration-dependent manner. This study suggested compound A6 was as a novel potent Menin-MLL interaction inhibitor, and it proved that introduction of 4-amino pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine to occupy the P10 hydrophobic pocket was new idea for design of novel Menin-MLL interaction inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanrong Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Zhe Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Hao Lei
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Yujie Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Jiaxin Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Bo Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Mengyan Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Li Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Minhang Xin
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wenge DV, Armstrong SA. The future of HOXA- expressing leukemias: Menin inhibitor response and resistance. Curr Opin Hematol 2024; 31:64-70. [PMID: 38010951 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We provide an update on the successes and ongoing challenges of Menin inhibition as a novel approach for the treatment of patients with acute leukemias that express HOXA cluster genes including leukemias with KMT2A -rearrangements, NPM1 mutations or NUP98 -rearrangements. Initial clinical trials show promising response rates in heavily pretreated patients suggesting these inhibitors may have a significant impact on patient outcome. Furthermore, the development of resistance mutations that decrease drug binding affinity, validates Menin as a therapeutic target in human cancers. Therapeutic strategies aiming at overcoming and preventing resistance, are of high clinical relevance. RECENT FINDINGS Several Menin inhibitor chemotypes have entered clinical trials. Acquired point mutations have recently been described as a mechanism of resistance towards Menin inhibitors. However, resistance can develop in absence of these mutations. Combination therapies are currently being investigated in preclinical models and in early phase clinical trials. SUMMARY Given the remarkable overall response rates, shedding light on treatment options for patients whose leukemias develop resistance to Menin inhibitors is an imminent clinical need. Studying the underlying mechanisms to inform clinical decision making, and to potentially prevent the development of resistance is of outmost importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela V Wenge
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Thomas X. Small Molecule Menin Inhibitors: Novel Therapeutic Agents Targeting Acute Myeloid Leukemia with KMT2A Rearrangement or NPM1 Mutation. Oncol Ther 2024; 12:57-72. [PMID: 38300432 PMCID: PMC10881917 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-024-00262-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances have included insights into the clinical value of genomic abnormalities in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and consequently the development of numerous targeted therapeutic agents that have improved clinical outcome. In this setting, various clinical trials have recently explored novel therapeutic agents either used alone or in combination with intensive chemotherapy or low-intensity treatments. Among them, menin inhibitors could represent a novel group of targeted therapies in AML driven by rearrangement of the lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) gene, previously known as mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL), or by mutation of the nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) gene. Recent phase 1/2 clinical trials confirmed the efficacy of SNDX-5613 (revumenib) and KO-539 (ziftomenib) and their acceptable tolerability. Several small molecule menin inhibitors are currently being evaluated as a combination therapy with standard of care treatments. The current paper reviews the recent progress in exploring the inhibitors of menin-KMT2A interactions and their application prospects in the treatment of acute leukemias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Thomas
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Bâtiment 1G, 165 Chemin du Grand Revoyet, 69495, Pierre-Bénite Cedex, France.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lin TL, Jaiswal AK, Ritter AJ, Reppas J, Tran TM, Neeb ZT, Katzman S, Thaxton ML, Cohen A, Sanford JR, Rao DS. Targeting IGF2BP3 enhances antileukemic effects of menin-MLL inhibition in MLL-AF4 leukemia. Blood Adv 2024; 8:261-275. [PMID: 38048400 PMCID: PMC10824693 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023011132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are emerging as a novel class of therapeutic targets in cancer, including in leukemia, given their important role in posttranscriptional gene regulation, and have the unexplored potential to be combined with existing therapies. The RBP insulin-like growth factor 2 messenger RNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) has been found to be a critical regulator of MLL-AF4 leukemogenesis and represents a promising therapeutic target. Here, we study the combined effects of targeting IGF2BP3 and menin-MLL interaction in MLL-AF4-driven leukemia in vitro and in vivo, using genetic inhibition with CRISPR-Cas9-mediated deletion of Igf2bp3 and pharmacologic inhibition of the menin-MLL interaction with multiple commercially available inhibitors. Depletion of Igf2bp3 sensitized MLL-AF4 leukemia to the effects of menin-MLL inhibition on cell growth and leukemic initiating cells in vitro. Mechanistically, we found that both Igf2bp3 depletion and menin-MLL inhibition led to increased differentiation in vitro and in vivo, seen in functional readouts and by gene expression analyses. IGF2BP3 knockdown had a greater effect on increasing survival and attenuating disease than pharmacologic menin-MLL inhibition with small molecule MI-503 alone and showed enhanced antileukemic effects in combination. Our work shows that IGF2BP3 is an oncogenic amplifier of MLL-AF4-mediated leukemogenesis and a potent therapeutic target, providing a paradigm for targeting leukemia at both the transcriptional and posttranscriptional level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tasha L. Lin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Amit K. Jaiswal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alexander J. Ritter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Jenna Reppas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Tiffany M. Tran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Zachary T. Neeb
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Sol Katzman
- Center for Biomolecular Science & Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Michelle L. Thaxton
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Amanda Cohen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jeremy R. Sanford
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
- Center for Biomolecular Science & Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Dinesh S. Rao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Radzisheuskaya A, Peña‐Rømer I, Lorenzini E, Koche R, Zhan Y, Shliaha PV, Cooper AJ, Fan Z, Shlyueva D, Johansen JV, Hendrickson RC, Helin K. An alternative NURF complex sustains acute myeloid leukemia by regulating the accessibility of insulator regions. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114221. [PMID: 37987160 PMCID: PMC10711654 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients remains a challenge despite recent therapeutic advances. Here, using a CRISPRi screen targeting chromatin factors, we identified the nucleosome-remodeling factor (NURF) subunit BPTF as an essential regulator of AML cell survival. We demonstrate that BPTF forms an alternative NURF chromatin remodeling complex with SMARCA5 and BAP18, which regulates the accessibility of a large set of insulator regions in leukemic cells. This ensures efficient CTCF binding and boundary formation between topologically associated domains that is essential for maintaining the leukemic transcriptional programs. We also demonstrate that the well-studied PHD2-BROMO chromatin reader domains of BPTF, while contributing to complex recruitment to chromatin, are dispensable for leukemic cell growth. Taken together, our results uncover how the alternative NURF complex contributes to leukemia and provide a rationale for its targeting in AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aliaksandra Radzisheuskaya
- Division of Cancer BiologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Center for Epigenetics ResearchMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Cell Biology ProgramMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Isabel Peña‐Rømer
- Division of Cancer BiologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Eugenia Lorenzini
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Richard Koche
- Center for Epigenetics ResearchMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Yingqian Zhan
- Center for Epigenetics ResearchMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Pavel V Shliaha
- Microchemistry & Proteomics CoreMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | - Zheng Fan
- Division of Cancer BiologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Daria Shlyueva
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Center for Epigenetics ResearchMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Cell Biology ProgramMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Jens V Johansen
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Ronald C Hendrickson
- Microchemistry & Proteomics CoreMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Kristian Helin
- Division of Cancer BiologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- Biotech Research & Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem)University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Center for Epigenetics ResearchMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Cell Biology ProgramMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Juul-Dam KL, Shukla NN, Cooper TM, Cuglievan B, Heidenreich O, Kolb EA, Rasouli M, Hasle H, Zwaan CM. Therapeutic targeting in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia with aberrant HOX/MEIS1 expression. Eur J Med Genet 2023; 66:104869. [PMID: 38174649 PMCID: PMC11195042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2023.104869] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Despite advances in the clinical management of childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) during the last decades, outcome remains fatal in approximately one third of patients. Primary chemoresistance, relapse and acute and long-term toxicities to conventional myelosuppressive therapies still constitute significant challenges and emphasize the unmet need for effective targeted therapies. Years of scientific efforts have translated into extensive insights on the heterogeneous spectrum of genetics and oncogenic signaling pathways of AML and identified a subset of patients characterized by upregulation of HOXA and HOXB homeobox genes and myeloid ecotropic virus insertion site 1 (MEIS1). Aberrant HOXA/MEIS1 expression is associated with genotypes such as rearrangements in Histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A-r), nucleoporin 98 (NUP98-r) and mutated nucleophosmin (NPM1c) that are found in approximately one third of children with AML. AML with upregulated HOXA/MEIS1 shares a number of molecular vulnerabilities amenable to recently developed molecules targeting the assembly of protein complexes or transcriptional regulators. The interaction between the nuclear scaffold protein menin and KMT2A has gained particular interest and constitutes a molecular dependency for maintenance of the HOXA/MEIS1 transcription program. Menin inhibitors disrupt the menin-KMT2A complex in preclinical models of KMT2A-r, NUP98-r and NPM1c acute leukemias and its occupancy at target genes leading to leukemic cell differentiation and apoptosis. Early-phase clinical trials are either ongoing or in development and preliminary data suggests tolerable toxicities and encouraging efficacy of menin inhibitors in adults with relapsed or refractory KMT2A-r and NPM1c AML. The Pediatric Acute Leukemia/European Pediatric Acute Leukemia (PedAL/EUPAL) project is focused to advance and coordinate informative clinical trials with new agents and constitute an ideal framework for testing of menin inhibitors in pediatric study populations. Menin inhibitors in combination with standard chemotherapy or other targeting agents may enhance anti-leukemic effects and constitute rational treatment strategies for select genotypes of childhood AML, and provide enhanced safety to avoid differentiation syndrome. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms in KMT2A-r, NUP98-r and NPM1c AML, emerging molecules targeting the HOXA/MEIS1 transcription program with menin inhibitors as the most prominent examples and future therapeutic implications of these agents in childhood AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristian L Juul-Dam
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Neerav N Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Todd M Cooper
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Branko Cuglievan
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Olaf Heidenreich
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - E Anders Kolb
- Division of Oncology, Nemours/Alfred I. Dupont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, USA
| | - Milad Rasouli
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henrik Hasle
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C Michel Zwaan
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sharma R, Incoronato A, Zhang C, Jayanthan A, Shah R, Narendran A. Establishment of a t(11;19), KMT2A Rearranged B-ALL Cell Line for Preclinical Evaluation and Novel Therapeutics Development for Refractory Infant Leukemia. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2023; 45:e750-e756. [PMID: 37494611 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Leukemia, diagnosed in children less than 12 months of age, is a rare condition with an aggressive disease presentation and poor response to conventional chemotherapeutic agents. In addition, the unique vulnerability of the affected population does not always permit the use of markedly intense regimens with higher doses of cytotoxic agents. However, the unique biology of these leukemic cells also provides opportunities for the identification of effective and potentially well-tolerated targeted therapeutic strategies. In this report, we describe the establishment and characterization of a cell line from the blasts of an infant diagnosed with refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) carrying the characteristic histone lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) gene rearrangement. This cell line consists of rapidly proliferating clones of cells with chemosensitivity patterns previously described for KMT2A rearranged leukemia cells, including relative resistance to glucocorticoids and sensitivity to cytarabine. We also show effective targetability with menin inhibitors, indicating the activity of abnormal KMT2A-related pathways and the potential utility of this cell line in comprehensive drug library screens. Overall, our findings report the establishment and in vitro validation of a cell line for research into key aspects of infant leukemia biology and targeted therapeutics development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ritul Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrea Incoronato
- Department of Hemato-oncology, Pereira Rossell Hospital, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Chunfen Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Ravi Shah
- Department of Pediatrics and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Aru Narendran
- Department of Pediatrics and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Premnath N, Madanat YF. Novel Investigational Agents and Pathways That May Influence the Future Management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2958. [PMID: 37296920 PMCID: PMC10252053 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112958] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clinically heterogeneous disease with a 5-year overall survival of 32% between 2012 to 2018. The above number severely dwindles with age and adverse risk of disease, presenting opportunities for new drug development and is an area of dire unmet need. Basic science and clinical investigators across the world have been working on many new and old molecule formulations and combination strategies to improve outcomes in this disease. In this review, we discuss select promising novel agents in various stages of clinical development for patients with AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Premnath
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA;
| | - Yazan F. Madanat
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA;
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Telomere Transcription in MLL-Rearranged Leukemia Cell Lines: Increased Levels of TERRA Associate with Lymphoid Lineage and Are Independent of Telomere Length and Ploidy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030925. [PMID: 36979904 PMCID: PMC10046226 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere transcription into telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) is an integral component of all aspects of chromosome end protection consisting of telomerase- or recombination-dependent telomere elongation, telomere capping, and the preservation of the (sub)telomeric heterochromatin structure. The chromatin modifier and transcriptional regulator MLL binds to telomeres and regulates TERRA transcription in telomere length homeostasis and response to telomere dysfunction. MLL fusion proteins (MLL-FPs), the product of MLL rearrangements in leukemia, also bind to telomeric chromatin. However, an effect on telomere transcription in MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemia has not yet been evaluated. Here, we show increased UUAGGG repeat-containing RNA levels in MLL-r acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) when compared to non-MLL-r ALL and myeloid leukemia. MLL rearrangements do not affect telomere length and UUAGGG repeat-containing RNA levels correlate with mean telomere length and reflect increased levels of TERRA. Furthermore, high levels of TERRA in MLL-r ALL occur in the presence of telomerase activity and are independent of ploidy, an underestimated source of variation on the overall transcriptome size in a cell. This MLL rearrangement-dependent and lymphoid lineage-associated increase in levels of TERRA supports a sustained telomere transcription by MLL-FPs that correlates with marked genomic stability previously reported in pediatric MLL-r ALL.
Collapse
|
15
|
Numata M, Haginoya N, Shiroishi M, Hirata T, Sato-Otsubo A, Yoshikawa K, Takata Y, Nagase R, Kashimoto Y, Suzuki M, Schulte N, Polier G, Kurimoto A, Tomoe Y, Toyota A, Yoneyama T, Imai E, Watanabe K, Hamada T, Kanada R, Watanabe J, Kagoshima Y, Tokumaru E, Murata K, Baba T, Shinozaki T, Ohtsuka M, Goto K, Karibe T, Deguchi T, Gocho Y, Yoshida M, Tomizawa D, Kato M, Tsutsumi S, Kitagawa M, Abe Y. A novel Menin-MLL1 inhibitor, DS-1594a, prevents the progression of acute leukemia with rearranged MLL1 or mutated NPM1. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:36. [PMID: 36841758 PMCID: PMC9960487 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02877-y] [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: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mixed lineage leukemia 1-rearranged (MLL1-r) acute leukemia patients respond poorly to currently available treatments and there is a need to develop more effective therapies directly disrupting the Menin‒MLL1 complex. Small-molecule-mediated inhibition of the protein‒protein interaction between Menin and MLL1 fusion proteins is a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with MLL1-r or mutated-nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1c) acute leukemia. In this study, we preclinically evaluated the new compound DS-1594a and its salts. METHODS We evaluated the preclinical efficacy of DS-1594a as well as DS-1594a·HCl (the HCl salt of DS-1594a) and DS-1594a·succinate (the succinic acid salt of DS-1594a, DS-1594b) in vitro and in vivo using acute myeloid leukemia (AML)/acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) models. RESULTS Our results showed that MLL1-r or NPM1c human leukemic cell lines were selectively and highly sensitive to DS-1594a·HCl, with 50% growth inhibition values < 30 nM. Compared with cytrabine, the standard chemotherapy drug as AML therapy, both DS-1594a·HCl and DS-1594a·succinate mediated the eradication of potential leukemia-initiating cells by enhancing differentiation and reducing serial colony-forming potential in MLL1-r AML cells in vitro. The results were confirmed by flow cytometry, RNA sequencing, RT‒qPCR and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analyses. DS-1594a·HCl and DS-1594a·succinate exhibited significant antitumor efficacy and survival benefit in MOLM-13 cell and patient-derived xenograft models of MLL1-r or NPM1c acute leukemia in vivo. CONCLUSION We have generated a novel, potent, orally available small-molecule inhibitor of the Menin-MLL1 interaction, DS-1594a. Our results suggest that DS-1594a has medicinal properties distinct from those of cytarabine and that DS-1594a has the potential to be a new anticancer therapy and support oral dosing regimen for clinical studies (NCT04752163).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Numata
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Noriyasu Haginoya
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Machiko Shiroishi
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirata
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aiko Sato-Otsubo
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan ,grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Yoshikawa
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Yoshimi Takata
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Reina Nagase
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kashimoto
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Suzuki
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nina Schulte
- grid.488273.20000 0004 0623 5599Daiichi Sankyo Europe GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Gernot Polier
- grid.488273.20000 0004 0623 5599Daiichi Sankyo Europe GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Akiko Kurimoto
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Yumiko Tomoe
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Akiko Toyota
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Tomoko Yoneyama
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Imai
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Daiichi Sankyo RD Novare Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Watanabe
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Tomoaki Hamada
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kanada
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Jun Watanabe
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Yoshiko Kagoshima
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Eri Tokumaru
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Kenji Murata
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Takayuki Baba
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Taeko Shinozaki
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Masami Ohtsuka
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Koichi Goto
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Karibe
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Takao Deguchi
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Children’s Cancer Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Gocho
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Children’s Cancer Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanori Yoshida
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Tomizawa
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Children’s Cancer Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motohiro Kato
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan ,grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan ,grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Children’s Cancer Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Tsutsumi
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| | - Mayumi Kitagawa
- Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005, Japan.
| | - Yuki Abe
- grid.410844.d0000 0004 4911 4738Shinagawa R&D Center, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd, 1-2-5 Hiromachi, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo, 140-0005 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Discovery of cysteine-targeting covalent histone methyltransferase inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 246:115028. [PMID: 36528996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.115028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-translational methylation of histone lysine or arginine residues by histone methyltransferases (HMTs) plays crucial roles in gene regulation and diverse physiological processes and is implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Therefore, histone methyltransferases have been increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic targets. Consequently, the discovery and development of histone methyltransferase inhibitors have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages of limited clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of HMTs inhibitors. Targeted covalent modification represents a proven strategy for kinase drug development and has gained increasing attention in HMTs drug discovery. In this review, we focus on the discovery, characterization, and biological applications of covalent inhibitors for HMTs with emphasis on advancements in the field. In addition, we identify the challenges and future directions in this fast-growing research area of drug discovery.
Collapse
|
17
|
Zou J, Yu C, Zhang C, Guan Y, Zhang Y, Tolbert E, Zhang W, Zhao T, Bayliss G, Li X, Ye Z, Zhuang S. Inhibition of MLL1-menin interaction attenuates renal fibrosis in obstructive nephropathy. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22712. [PMID: 36527439 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100634rrr] [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: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), a histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methyltransferase, exerts its enzymatic activity by interacting with menin and other proteins. It is unclear whether inhibition of the MLL1-menin interaction influences epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), renal fibroblast activation, and renal fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of disrupting MLL1-menin interaction on those events and mechanisms involved in a murine model of renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), in cultured mouse proximal tubular cells and renal interstitial fibroblasts. Injury to the kidney increased the expression of MLL1 and menin and H3K4 monomethylation (H3K4me1); MLL1 and menin were expressed in renal epithelial cells and renal interstitial fibroblasts. Inhibition of the MLL1-menin interaction by MI-503 administration or siRNA-mediated silencing of MLL1 attenuated UUO-induced renal fibrosis, and reduced expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin. These treatments also inhibited UUO-induced expression of transcription factors Snail and Twist and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) while expression of E-cadherin was preserved. Moreover, treatment with MI-503 and transfection with either MLL siRNA or menin siRNA inhibited TGF-β1-induced upregulation of α-SMA, fibronectin and Snail, phosphorylation of Smad3 and AKT, and downregulation of E-cadherin in cultured renal epithelial cells. Finally, MI-503 was effective in abrogating serum or TGFβ1-induced transformation of renal interstitial fibroblasts to myofibroblasts in vitro. Taken together, these results suggest that targeting disruption of the MLL1-menin interaction attenuates renal fibrosis through inhibition of partial EMT and renal fibroblast activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Zou
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyun Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Yingjie Guan
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Yunhe Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Evelyn Tolbert
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Ting Zhao
- Department of Surgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - George Bayliss
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Xiaogang Li
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Zhibin Ye
- Department of Nephrology, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sahasrabudhe KD, Mims AS. Novel investigational approaches for high-risk genetic subsets of AML: TP53, KMT2A, FLT3. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2022; 2022:15-22. [PMID: 36485136 PMCID: PMC9820850 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2022000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The treatment landscape in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is rapidly evolving, with multiple new therapies approved in recent years. However, the prognosis for patients with high-risk genetic subsets of AML remains poor, and the development of more effective treatment options for these patients is ongoing. Three of these high-risk AML patient subsets include TP53-mutated AML, FLT3-internal tandem duplication (ITD)-mutated AML, and AML harboring rearrangements affecting the KMT2A locus (KMT2A-r AML). The prognosis for TP53-mutated AML remains poor with both intensive and targeted regimens, including those incorporating the BCL-2 inhibitor, venetoclax. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only potentially curative therapy for these patients, but posttransplant relapse rates remain high. Patients with FLT3-ITD-mutated AML continue to have suboptimal outcomes with standard therapies and experience high rates of relapse following transplant. KMT2A-r AML is also associated with poor outcomes with current treatment approaches, and effective standards of care are lacking for patients with relapsed/refractory disease. This article discusses current treatment approaches, along with the investigational agents being explored for the treatment of these 3 AML subsets, focusing primarily on agents that are further along in development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice S Mims
- The James Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Roles of Chromatin Remodelling and Molecular Heterogeneity in Therapy Resistance in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194942. [PMID: 36230865 PMCID: PMC9563350 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194942] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary We review the role of chromatin and epigenetic dysregulation in therapy resistance in glioblastoma. We discuss how epigenetic and genetic forces may cooperate to programme functional cell states that are inherently resistant to therapy. Targeting epigenetic factors that are dysregulated in this malignancy could, therefore, improve clinical outcomes for patients. We highlight some preclinical and clinical compounds that were tested or are currently being explored for glioblastoma. Lastly, we present our thoughts on the requirements for the development of next-generation epigenetic therapies. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a therapy-resistant reservoir in glioblastoma (GBM). It is now becoming clear that epigenetic and chromatin remodelling programs link the stemlike behaviour of CSCs to their treatment resistance. New evidence indicates that the epigenome of GBM cells is shaped by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including their genetic makeup, their interactions and communication with other neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells, including immune cells, and their metabolic niche. In this review, we explore how all these factors contribute to epigenomic heterogeneity in a tumour and the selection of therapy-resistant cells. Lastly, we discuss current and emerging experimental platforms aimed at precisely understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of therapy resistance that ultimately lead to tumour relapse. Given the growing arsenal of drugs that target epigenetic enzymes, our review addresses promising preclinical and clinical applications of epidrugs to treat GBM, and possible mechanisms of resistance that need to be overcome.
Collapse
|
20
|
Lei H, Zhang SQ, Bai H, Zhao HY, Sun J, Chuai H, Xin M. Discovery of Novel, Potent, and Selective Small-Molecule Menin-Mixed Lineage Leukemia Interaction Inhibitors through Attempting Introduction of Hydrophilic Groups. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13413-13435. [PMID: 36173787 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction of the N,N-dimethylaminoethoxy group to pyrido[3,2-d]pyrimidine led to the discovery of menin-mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) interaction inhibitor C20. C20 showed strong binding affinity to menin protein and achieved sub-micromolar potency in cell growth inhibition. C20 had good selectivity for the inhibition of the interaction between menin and MLL in the kinase profile evaluation. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that C20 possessed good stability and low clearance rate in liver microsomes and acceptable bioavailability in rats. Subsequent oral administration of C20 showed potent antitumor activity in the MV4;11 subcutaneous xenograft models of MLL-rearranged leukemia. The docking study showed that C20 bound highly with menin, and the N,N-dimethylaminoethoxy group occupied the F9 pocket of menin. This study proved that introducing a hydrophilic group into the F9 pocket of menin would be a new strategy for the design of menin-MLL interaction inhibitors with potent binding affinity and improved physical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - Huanrong Bai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Yi Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - Jiajia Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - Hongyan Chuai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| | - Minhang Xin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi710061, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Malhotra L, Singh A, Kaur P, Ethayathulla AS. Comprehensive omics studies of p53 mutants in human cancer. Brief Funct Genomics 2022; 22:97-108. [PMID: 35809339 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The p53 is the master regulator of the cell known for regulating a large array of cellular processes. Inactivation of p53 by missense mutations is one of the leading causes of cancer. Some of these mutations endow p53 with selective oncogenic functions to promote tumor progression. Due to the vast array of mutations found in p53, the experimental studies showing the role of different mutant p53 as an oncogene are also expanding. In this review, we discuss the oncogenic roles of different p53 mutants at the cellular level identified by multi-omics tools. We discuss some of the therapeutic studies to tackle p53 mutants and their downstream targets identified by omics. We also highlight the future prospective and scope of further studies of downstream p53 targets by omics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lakshay Malhotra
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Alankrita Singh
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Punit Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Abdul S Ethayathulla
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Feoli A, Viviano M, Cipriano A, Milite C, Castellano S, Sbardella G. Lysine methyltransferase inhibitors: where we are now. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:359-406. [PMID: 35441141 PMCID: PMC8985178 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00196e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein lysine methyltransferases constitute a large family of epigenetic writers that catalyse the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine to histone- and non-histone-specific substrates. Alterations in the expression and activity of these proteins have been linked to the genesis and progress of several diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and growing defects, hence they represent interesting targets for new therapeutic approaches. Over the past two decades, the identification of modulators of lysine methyltransferases has increased tremendously, clarifying the role of these proteins in different physio-pathological states. The aim of this review is to furnish an updated outlook about the protein lysine methyltransferases disclosed modulators, reporting their potency, their mechanism of action and their eventual use in clinical and preclinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Feoli
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Monica Viviano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Alessandra Cipriano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Ciro Milite
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Sabrina Castellano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Gianluca Sbardella
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bai H, Zhang SQ, Lei H, Wang F, Ma M, Xin M. Menin-MLL protein-protein interaction inhibitors: a patent review (2014-2021). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2022; 32:507-522. [PMID: 35202550 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2022.2045947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chromosomal translocations involving the mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL, KMT2A, MLL1) genes result in the production of MLL fusion proteins, which cause abnormal transcriptional regulation leading to acute leukemia (AL). Menin (MEN1) protein is essential for MLL to regulate the expression of related target genes. High affinity interactions between the amino terminus of MLL proteins and Menin proteins are required to mediate the oncogenic transformation of MLL fusion proteins. Therefore, inhibition of Menin and MLL interaction is a potential therapeutic strategy for MLL rearrangement (MLL-r) leukemia and can provide a new choice for treatment of other diseases. Therefore, researchers have made great efforts to explore small molecule Menin-MLL interaction inhibitors. AREAS COVERED This review is to provide an overview of the patented Menin-MLL protein protein interaction inhibitors from 2014 to 2021. EXPERT OPINION Menin-MLL interaction inhibitors have therapeutic potential in the treatment of acute leukemia, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Nowadays, SNDX-5613 and KO-539 have been granted orphan drug designation by the FDA for treatment of refractory/relapsed leukemia and AML, respectively. In addition, they are undergoing clinical evaluation for other indications. It is clear that Menin-MLL interaction inhibitors have promising benefits in the clinical treatment of acute leukemia and other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanrong Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Hao Lei
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Fang Wang
- Hebei Chemical & Pharmaceutical College, Shijiazhuang 050000, P.R. China
| | - Mengyan Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Minhang Xin
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Swaminathan M, Bourgeois W, Armstrong SA, Wang ES. Menin Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia-What Does the Future Hold? Cancer J 2022; 28:62-66. [PMID: 35072375 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Menin inhibitors constitute a novel class of agents targeting the underlying biology of nucleophosmin (NPM1) mutant and KMT2A (formerly known as MLL1) rearranged (KMT2Ar) acute leukemias. KMT2Ar acute leukemias constitute 5% to 10% of acute leukemias, and NPM1 mutations are identified in 30% of newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemias (AMLs). In preclinical AML models, small molecule inhibitors of the menin-KMT2A protein-protein interaction induce differentiation, downregulate critical gene expression programs, and confer a survival advantage in patient-derived xenograft models of NPM1 mutant and KMT2Ar AML. Multiple clinical trials evaluating oral menin inhibitors in acute leukemias are ongoing. Preliminary results in relapsed/refractory NPM1 mutant and KMT2Ar AML have shown on-target effects, tolerable toxicity, and promising clinical activity. This review details the current clinical experience of menin inhibitors in AML and discusses how these agents can be successfully integrated into future therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Swaminathan
- From the Department of Leukemia, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Wallace Bourgeois
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA
| | - Scott A Armstrong
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA
| | - Eunice S Wang
- From the Department of Leukemia, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Meriç N, Kocabaş F. The Historical Relationship Between Meis1 and Leukemia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1387:127-144. [DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
26
|
Onodera A, Kiuchi M, Kokubo K, Nakayama T. Epigenetic regulation of inflammation by CxxC domain‐containing proteins*. Immunol Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/imr.13056
expr 964170082 + 969516512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Onodera
- Department of Immunology Graduate School of Medicine Chiba University Chiba Japan
- Institute for Global Prominent Research Chiba University Chiba Japan
| | - Masahiro Kiuchi
- Department of Immunology Graduate School of Medicine Chiba University Chiba Japan
| | - Kota Kokubo
- Department of Immunology Graduate School of Medicine Chiba University Chiba Japan
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology Graduate School of Medicine Chiba University Chiba Japan
- AMED‐CREST, AMED Chiba Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Onodera A, Kiuchi M, Kokubo K, Nakayama T. Epigenetic regulation of inflammation by CxxC domain-containing proteins. Immunol Rev 2021; 305:137-151. [PMID: 34935162 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of gene transcription in the immune system is important for proper control of protective and pathogenic inflammation. Aberrant epigenetic modifications are often associated with dysregulation of the immune cells, including lymphocytes and macrophages, leading to pathogenic inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Two classical epigenetic markers-histone modifications and DNA cytosine methylation, the latter is the 5 position of the cytosine base in the context of CpG dinucleotides-play multiple roles in the immune system. CxxC domain-containing proteins, which basically bind to the non-methylated CpG (i.e., epigenetic "readers"), often function as "writers" of the epigenetic markers via their catalytic domain within the proteins or by interacting with other epigenetic modifiers. We herein report the most recent advances in our understanding of the functions of CxxC domain-containing proteins in the immune system and inflammation, mainly focusing on T cells and macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Onodera
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Institute for Global Prominent Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kiuchi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kota Kokubo
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,AMED-CREST, AMED, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lei H, Zhang SQ, Fan S, Bai HR, Zhao HY, Mao S, Xin M. Recent Progress of Small Molecule Menin-MLL Interaction Inhibitors as Therapeutic Agents for Acute Leukemia. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15519-15533. [PMID: 34726905 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangements are associated with acute leukemia. The protein menin is regarded as a critical oncogenic cofactor of the resulting MLL fusion proteins in acute leukemia. A direct interaction between menin and the MLL amino terminal sequences is necessary for MLL fusion protein-mediated leukemogenesis. Thus, inhibition of the interaction between menin and MLL has emerged as a novel therapeutic strategy. Recent improvements in structural biology and chemical reactivity have promoted the design and development of selective and potent menin-MLL interaction inhibitors. In this Perspective, different classes of menin-MLL interaction inhibitors are comprehensively summarized. Further research potential, challenges, and opportunities in the field are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Shu Fan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Huan-Rong Bai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Hong-Yi Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Shuai Mao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Minhang Xin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tsakaneli A, Williams O. Drug Repurposing for Targeting Acute Leukemia With KMT2A ( MLL)-Gene Rearrangements. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:741413. [PMID: 34594227 PMCID: PMC8478155 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.741413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment failure rates of acute leukemia with rearrangements of the Mixed Lineage Leukemia (MLL) gene highlight the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Taking into consideration the limitations of the current therapies and the advantages of novel strategies for drug discovery, drug repurposing offers valuable opportunities to identify treatments and develop therapeutic approaches quickly and effectively for acute leukemia with MLL-rearrangements. These approaches are complimentary to de novo drug discovery and have taken advantage of increased knowledge of the mechanistic basis of MLL-fusion protein complex function as well as refined drug repurposing screens. Despite the vast number of different leukemia associated MLL-rearrangements, the existence of common core oncogenic pathways holds the promise that many such therapies will be broadly applicable to MLL-rearranged leukemia as a whole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Tsakaneli
- Cancer Section, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Owen Williams
- Cancer Section, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Therapeutic implications of menin inhibition in acute leukemias. Leukemia 2021; 35:2482-2495. [PMID: 34131281 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01309-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Menin inhibitors are novel targeted agents currently in clinical development for the treatment of genetically defined subsets of acute leukemia. Menin has a tumor suppressor function in endocrine glands. Germline mutations in the gene encoding menin cause the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome, a hereditary condition associated with tumors of the endocrine glands. However, menin is also critical for leukemogenesis in subsets driven by rearrangement of the Lysine Methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) gene, previously known as mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL), which encodes an epigenetic modifier. These seemingly opposing functions of menin can be explained by its various roles in gene regulation. Therefore, leukemias with rearrangement of KMT2A are predicted to respond to menin inhibition with early clinical data validating this proof-of-concept. These leukemias affect infants, children and adults, and lead to adverse outcomes with current standard therapies. Recent studies have identified novel targets in acute leukemia that are susceptible to menin inhibition, such as mutated Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1), the most common genetic alteration in adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition to these alterations, other leukemia subsets with similar transcriptional dependency could be targeted through menin inhibition. This led to rationally designed clinical studies, investigating small-molecule oral menin inhibitors in relapsed acute leukemias with promising early results. Herein, we discuss the physiologic and malignant biology of menin, the mechanisms of leukemia in these susceptible subsets, and future therapeutic strategies using these inhibitors in acute leukemia.
Collapse
|
31
|
Antisense Oligonucleotide-Based Therapeutic against Menin for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070795. [PMID: 34356858 PMCID: PMC8301388 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor menin has dual functions, acting either as a tumor suppressor or as an oncogene/oncoprotein, depending on the oncological context. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by the lack of expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (ERBB2/HER2) and is often a basal-like breast cancer. TNBC is associated with a dismal prognosis and an insufficient response to chemotherapies. Previously, menin was shown to play a proliferative role in ER-positive breast cancer; however, the functions of menin in TNBC remain unknown. Here, we have demonstrated that menin is expressed in various TNBC subtypes with the strongest expression in the TNBC Hs 578T cells. The depletion of menin by an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) inhibits cell proliferation, enhances apoptosis in Hs 578T cells, highlighting the oncogenic functions of menin in this TNBC model. ASO-based menin silencing also delays the tumor progression of TNBC xenografts. Analysis of the menin interactome suggests that menin could drive TNBC tumorigenesis through the regulation of MLL/KMT2A-driven transcriptional activity, mRNA 3′-end processing and apoptosis. The study provides a rationale behind the use of ASO-based therapy, targeting menin in monotherapy or in combination with chemo or PARP inhibitors for menin-positive TNBC treatments.
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang M, Aguilar A, Xu S, Huang L, Chinnaswamy K, Sleger T, Wang B, Gross S, Nicolay BN, Ronseaux S, Harvey K, Wang Y, McEachern D, Kirchhoff PD, Liu Z, Stuckey J, Tron AE, Liu T, Wang S. Discovery of M-1121 as an Orally Active Covalent Inhibitor of Menin-MLL Interaction Capable of Achieving Complete and Long-Lasting Tumor Regression. J Med Chem 2021; 64:10333-10349. [PMID: 34196551 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Targeting the menin-MLL protein-protein interaction is being pursued as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of acute leukemia carrying MLL-rearrangements (MLLr leukemia). Herein, we report M-1121, a covalent and orally active inhibitor of the menin-MLL interaction capable of achieving complete and persistent tumor regression. M-1121 establishes covalent interactions with Cysteine 329 located in the MLL binding pocket of menin and potently inhibits growth of acute leukemia cell lines carrying MLL translocations with no activity in cell lines with wild-type MLL. Consistent with the mechanism of action, M-1121 drives dose-dependent down-regulation of HOXA9 and MEIS1 gene expression in the MLL-rearranged MV4;11 leukemia cell line. M-1121 is orally bioavailable and shows potent antitumor activity in vivo with tumor regressions observed at tolerated doses in the MV4;11 subcutaneous and disseminated models of MLL-rearranged leukemia. Together, our findings support development of an orally active covalent menin inhibitor as a new therapy for MLLr leukemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Angelo Aguilar
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Shilin Xu
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Liyue Huang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | | | - Taryn Sleger
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Bo Wang
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Stefan Gross
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Brandon N Nicolay
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Sebastien Ronseaux
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Kaitlin Harvey
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yu Wang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Donna McEachern
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Paul D Kirchhoff
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Zhaomin Liu
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jeanne Stuckey
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Adriana E Tron
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Tao Liu
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Shaomeng Wang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ozyerli‐Goknar E, Nizamuddin S, Timmers HTM. A Box of Chemistry to Inhibit the MEN1 Tumor Suppressor Gene Promoting Leukemia. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:1391-1402. [PMID: 33534953 PMCID: PMC8252030 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Targeting protein-protein interactions (PPIs) with small-molecule inhibitors has become a hotbed of modern drug development. In this review, we describe a new class of PPI inhibitors that block menin from binding to MLL proteins. Menin is encoded by the MEN1 tumor suppressor, but acts as an essential cofactor for MLL/KMT2A-rearranged leukemias. The most promising menin-MLL inhibitors belong to the thienopyrimidine class and have recently entered phase I/II clinical trials for treating acute leukemias characterized by MLL/KMT2A translocations or NPM1 mutations. As single agents, thienopyrimidine compounds eradicate leukemia in a xenograft models of primary leukemic cells belonging to the MLL-rearranged or NPM1-mutant subtypes. These compounds are well tolerated with few or no side effects, which is remarkable given the tumor-suppressor function of menin. The menin-MLL inhibitors highlight how leukemia patients could benefit from a targeted epigenetic therapy with novel PPI inhibitors obtained by directed chemical evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Ozyerli‐Goknar
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Freiburg German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Department of UrologyBreisacherstrasse 6679016FreiburgGermany
| | - Sheikh Nizamuddin
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Freiburg German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Department of UrologyBreisacherstrasse 6679016FreiburgGermany
| | - H. T. Marc Timmers
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) partner site Freiburg German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Department of UrologyBreisacherstrasse 6679016FreiburgGermany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gao K, Shaabani S, Xu R, Zarganes-Tzitzikas T, Gao L, Ahmadianmoghaddam M, Groves MR, Dömling A. Nanoscale, automated, high throughput synthesis and screening for the accelerated discovery of protein modifiers. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:809-818. [PMID: 34124680 PMCID: PMC8152715 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00087j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hit finding in early drug discovery is often based on high throughput screening (HTS) of existing and historical compound libraries, which can limit chemical diversity, is time-consuming, very costly, and environmentally not sustainable. On-the-fly compound synthesis and in situ screening in a highly miniaturized and automated format has the potential to greatly reduce the medicinal chemistry environmental footprint. Here, we used acoustic dispensing technology to synthesize a library in a 1536 well format based on the Groebcke-Blackburn-Bienaymé reaction (GBB-3CR) on a nanomole scale. The unpurified library was screened by differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and cross-validated using microscale thermophoresis (MST) against the oncogenic protein-protein interaction menin-MLL. Several GBB reaction products were found as μM menin binder, and the structural basis of the interactions with menin was elucidated by co-crystal structure analysis. Miniaturization and automation of the organic synthesis and screening process can lead to an acceleration in the early drug discovery process, which is an alternative to classical HTS and a step towards the paradigm of continuous manufacturing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Gao
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Shabnam Shaabani
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Ruixue Xu
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Tryfon Zarganes-Tzitzikas
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Li Gao
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Maryam Ahmadianmoghaddam
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Matthew R Groves
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Dömling
- Pharmacy Department, Drug Design group, University of Groningen A. Deusinglaan 1 9700 AD Groningen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wan C, Mahara S, Sun C, Doan A, Chua HK, Xu D, Bian J, Li Y, Zhu D, Sooraj D, Cierpicki T, Grembecka J, Firestein R. Genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 screen of Wnt/β-catenin signaling identifies therapeutic targets for colorectal cancer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabf2567. [PMID: 34138730 PMCID: PMC8133758 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf2567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a key driver of colorectal cancer (CRC) growth and of great therapeutic importance. In this study, we performed comprehensive CRISPR screens to interrogate the regulatory network of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in CRC cells. We found marked discrepancies between the artificial TOP reporter activity and β-catenin-mediated endogenous transcription and redundant roles of T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor transcription factors in transducing β-catenin signaling. Compiled functional genomic screens and network analysis revealed unique epigenetic regulators of β-catenin transcriptional output, including the histone lysine methyltransferase 2A oncoprotein (KMT2A/Mll1). Using an integrative epigenomic and transcriptional profiling approach, we show that KMT2A loss diminishes the binding of β-catenin to consensus DNA motifs and the transcription of β-catenin targets in CRC. These results suggest that KMT2A may be a promising target for CRCs and highlight the broader potential for exploiting epigenetic modulation as a therapeutic strategy for β-catenin-driven malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhua Wan
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Sylvia Mahara
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Claire Sun
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Anh Doan
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Hui Kheng Chua
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Dakang Xu
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200025 Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Bian
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Yue Li
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200025 Shanghai, China
| | - Danxi Zhu
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Dhanya Sooraj
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Tomasz Cierpicki
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jolanta Grembecka
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Panagopoulos I, Heim S. Interstitial Deletions Generating Fusion Genes. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2021; 18:167-196. [PMID: 33893073 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A fusion gene is the physical juxtaposition of two different genes resulting in a structure consisting of the head of one gene and the tail of the other. Gene fusion is often a primary neoplasia-inducing event in leukemias, lymphomas, solid malignancies as well as benign tumors. Knowledge about fusion genes is crucial not only for our understanding of tumorigenesis, but also for the diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment of cancer. Balanced chromosomal rearrangements, in particular translocations and inversions, are the most frequent genetic events leading to the generation of fusion genes. In the present review, we summarize the existing knowledge on chromosome deletions as a mechanism for fusion gene formation. Such deletions are mostly submicroscopic and, hence, not detected by cytogenetic analyses but by array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) and/or high throughput sequencing (HTS). They are found across the genome in a variety of neoplasias. As tumors are increasingly analyzed using aCGH and HTS, it is likely that more interstitial deletions giving rise to fusion genes will be found, significantly impacting our understanding and treatment of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Panagopoulos
- Section for Cancer Cytogenetics, Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway;
| | - Sverre Heim
- Section for Cancer Cytogenetics, Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Li X, Song Y. Structure, function and inhibition of critical protein-protein interactions involving mixed lineage leukemia 1 and its fusion oncoproteins. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:56. [PMID: 33823889 PMCID: PMC8022399 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01057-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1, also known as MLL or KMT2A) is an important transcription factor and histone-H3 lysine-4 (H3K4) methyltransferase. It is a master regulator for transcription of important genes (e.g., Hox genes) for embryonic development and hematopoiesis. However, it is largely dispensable in matured cells. Dysregulation of MLL1 leads to overexpression of certain Hox genes and eventually leukemia initiation. Chromosome translocations involving MLL1 cause ~ 75% of acute leukemia in infants and 5–10% in children and adults with a poor prognosis. Targeted therapeutics against oncogenic fusion MLL1 (onco-MLL1) are therefore needed. Onco-MLL1 consists of the N-terminal DNA-interacting domains of MLL1 fused with one of > 70 fusion partners, among which transcription cofactors AF4, AF9 and its paralog ENL, and ELL are the most frequent. Wild-type (WT)- and onco-MLL1 involve numerous protein–protein interactions (PPI), which play critical roles in regulating gene expression in normal physiology and leukemia. Moreover, WT-MLL1 has been found to be essential for MLL1-rearranged (MLL1-r) leukemia. Rigorous studies of such PPIs have been performed and much progress has been achieved in understanding their structures, structure–function relationships and the mechanisms for activating gene transcription as well as leukemic transformation. Inhibition of several critical PPIs by peptides, peptidomimetic or small-molecule compounds has been explored as a therapeutic approach for MLL1-r leukemia. This review summarizes the biological functions, biochemistry, structure and inhibition of the critical PPIs involving MLL1 and its fusion partner proteins. In addition, challenges and perspectives of drug discovery targeting these PPIs for the treatment of MLL1-r leukemia are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yongcheng Song
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Hackeng WM, Dreijerink KMA, Offerhaus GJA, Brosens LAA. A Parathyroid-Gut Axis: Hypercalcemia and the Pathogenesis of Gastrinoma in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia 1. Mol Cancer Res 2021; 19:946-949. [PMID: 33771883 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia 1 (MEN1) syndrome have a germline mutation in the MEN1 gene. Loss of the wild-type allele can initiate endocrine tumorigenesis. Microscopic and macroscopic pituitary, parathyroid, and pancreatic tumors (referred to as the 3 P's) show loss of the wild-type MEN1 allele up to 100%. In contrast, the duodenal gastrinoma pathogenesis in MEN1 syndrome follows a hyperplasia-to-neoplasia sequence. Gastrinomas have loss of heterozygosity of the MEN1 locus in <50%, and invariably coincide with linear, diffuse, or micronodular gastrin-cell hyperplasia. The factor initiating the gastrin-cell hyperplasia-to-neoplasia sequence is unknown. In this perspective, we argue that hypercalcemia may promote the gastrin-cell hyperplasia-to-neoplasia sequence through the calcium sensing receptor. Hypercalcemia is present in almost all patients with MEN1 syndrome due to parathyroid adenomas. We propose a parathyroid-gut axis, which could well explain why patients with MEN1 syndrome are regularly cured of duodenal gastrinoma after parathyroid surgery, and might cause MEN1 syndrome phenocopies in MEN1-mutation negative individuals with parathyroid adenomas. This perspective on the pathogenesis of the gastrin-cell hyperplasia and neoplasia sequence sheds new light on tumorigenic mechanisms in neuroendocrine tumors and might open up novel areas of gastrinoma research. It may also shift focus in the treatment of MEN1 syndrome-related gastrinoma to biochemical prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Koen M A Dreijerink
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Neonates are at risk for 3 major forms of leukemia in the first year of life: acute leukemia, juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, and transient abnormal myelopoiesis associated with Down syndrome. These disorders are rare but generate interest due to aggressive clinical presentation, suboptimal response to current therapies, and fascinating biology. Each can arise as a result of unique constitutional and acquired genetic events. Genetic insights are pointing the way toward novel therapeutic approaches. This article reviews key epidemiologic, clinical, and molecular features of neonatal leukemias, focusing on risk stratification, treatment, and strategies for developing novel molecularly targeted approaches to improve future outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A Brown
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Unlike Its Paralog LEDGF/p75, HRP-2 Is Dispensable for MLL-R Leukemogenesis but Important for Leukemic Cell Survival. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010192. [PMID: 33477970 PMCID: PMC7835958 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HDGF-related protein 2 (HRP-2) is a member of the Hepatoma-Derived Growth Factor-related protein family that harbors the structured PWWP and Integrase Binding Domain, known to associate with methylated histone tails or cellular and viral proteins, respectively. Interestingly, HRP-2 is a paralog of Lens Epithelium Derived Growth Factor p75 (LEDGF/p75), which is essential for MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemia but dispensable for hematopoiesis. Sequel to these findings, we investigated the role of HRP-2 in hematopoiesis and MLL-r leukemia. Protein interactions were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation and validated using recombinant proteins in NMR. A systemic knockout mouse model was used to study normal hematopoiesis and MLL-ENL transformation upon the different HRP-2 genotypes. The role of HRP-2 in MLL-r and other leukemic, human cell lines was evaluated by lentiviral-mediated miRNA targeting HRP-2. We demonstrate that MLL and HRP-2 interact through a conserved interface, although this interaction proved less dependent on menin than the MLL-LEDGF/p75 interaction. The systemic HRP-2 knockout mice only revealed an increase in neutrophils in the peripheral blood, whereas the depletion of HRP-2 in leukemic cell lines and transformed primary murine cells resulted in reduced colony formation independently of MLL-rearrangements. In contrast, primary murine HRP-2 knockout cells were efficiently transformed by the MLL-ENL fusion, indicating that HRP-2, unlike LEDGF/p75, is dispensable for the transformation of MLL-ENL leukemogenesis but important for leukemic cell survival.
Collapse
|
41
|
Libbrecht C, Xie HM, Kingsley MC, Haladyna JN, Riedel SS, Alikarami F, Lenard A, McGeehan GM, Ernst P, Bernt KM. Menin is necessary for long term maintenance of meningioma-1 driven leukemia. Leukemia 2021; 35:1405-1417. [PMID: 33542482 PMCID: PMC8102197 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01146-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Translocations of Meningioma-1 (MN1) occur in a subset of acute myeloid leukemias (AML) and result in high expression of MN1, either as a full-length protein, or as a fusion protein that includes most of the N-terminus of MN1. High levels of MN1 correlate with poor prognosis. When overexpressed in murine hematopoietic progenitors, MN1 causes an aggressive AML characterized by an aberrant myeloid precursor-like gene expression program that shares features of KMT2A-rearranged (KMT2A-r) leukemia, including high levels of Hoxa and Meis1 gene expression. Compounds that target a critical KMT2A-Menin interaction have proven effective in KMT2A-r leukemia. Here, we demonstrate that Menin (Men1) is also critical for the self-renewal of MN1-driven AML through the maintenance of a distinct gene expression program. Genetic inactivation of Men1 led to a decrease in the number of functional leukemia-initiating cells. Pharmacologic inhibition of the KMT2A-Menin interaction decreased colony-forming activity, induced differentiation programs in MN1-driven murine leukemia and decreased leukemic burden in a human AML xenograft carrying an MN1-ETV6 translocation. Collectively, these results nominate Menin inhibition as a promising therapeutic strategy in MN1-driven leukemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Libbrecht
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA ,grid.452431.50000 0004 0442 349XInstitut d’Hématologie et d’Oncologie Pédiatrique, Lyon, France
| | - Hongbo M. Xie
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Department of Bioinformatics and Health Informatics (DBHI), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Molly C. Kingsley
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Jessica N. Haladyna
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Simone S. Riedel
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Fatemeh Alikarami
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Alexandra Lenard
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | | | - Patricia Ernst
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA ,grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Pharmacology, University of Colorado, Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Kathrin M. Bernt
- grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA USA ,grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Abramson Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA USA ,grid.239552.a0000 0001 0680 8770Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3501 Civic Center Boulevard, CTRB 3064, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
SUV39H1 regulates the progression of MLL-AF9-induced acute myeloid leukemia. Oncogene 2020; 39:7239-7252. [PMID: 33037410 PMCID: PMC7728597 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01495-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulations play crucial roles in leukemogenesis and leukemia progression. SUV39H1 is the dominant H3K9 methyltransferase in the hematopoietic system, and its expression declines with aging. However, the role of SUV39H1 via its-mediated repressive modification H3K9me3 in leukemogenesis/leukemia progression remains to be explored. We found that SUV39H1 was down-regulated in a variety of leukemias, including MLL-r AML, as compared with normal individuals. Decreased levels of Suv39h1 expression and genomic H3K9me3 occupancy were observed in LSCs from MLL-r-induced AML mouse models in comparison with that of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Suv39h1 overexpression increased leukemia latency and decreased the frequency of LSCs in MLL-r AML mouse models, while Suv39h1 knockdown accelerated disease progression with increased number of LSCs. Increased Suv39h1 expression led to the inactivation of Hoxb13 and Six1, as well as reversion of Hoxa9/Meis1 downstream target genes, which in turn decelerated leukemia progression. Interestingly, Hoxb13 expression is up-regulated in MLL-AF9-induced AML cells, while knockdown of Hoxb13 in MLL-AF9 leukemic cells significantly prolonged the survival of leukemic mice with reduced LSC frequencies. Our data revealed that SUV39H1 functions as a tumor suppressor in MLL-AF9-induced AML progression. These findings provide the direct link of SUV39H1 to AML development and progression.
Collapse
|
43
|
Pearson AD, Stegmaier K, Bourdeaut F, Reaman G, Heenen D, Meyers ML, Armstrong SA, Brown P, De Carvalho D, Jabado N, Marshall L, Rivera M, Smith M, Adamson PC, Barone A, Baumann C, Blackman S, Buenger V, Donoghue M, Duncan AD, Fox E, Gadbaw B, Hattersley M, Ho P, Jacobs I, Kelly MJ, Kieran M, Lesa G, Ligas F, Ludwinski D, McDonough J, Nikolova Z, Norga K, Senderowicz A, Taube T, Weiner S, Karres D, Vassal G. Paediatric Strategy Forum for medicinal product development of epigenetic modifiers for children: ACCELERATE in collaboration with the European Medicines Agency with participation of the Food and Drug Administration. Eur J Cancer 2020; 139:135-148. [PMID: 32992153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2020.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The fifth multistakeholder Paediatric Strategy Forum focussed on epigenetic modifier therapies for children and adolescents with cancer. As most mutations in paediatric malignancies influence chromatin-associated proteins or transcription and paediatric cancers are driven by developmental gene expression programs, targeting epigenetic mechanisms is predicted to be a very important therapeutic approach in paediatric cancer. The Research to Accelerate Cures and Equity (RACE) for Children Act FDARA amendments to section 505B of the FD&C Act was implemented in August 2020, and as there are many epigenetic targets on the FDA Paediatric Molecular Targets List, clinical evaluation of epigenetic modifiers in paediatric cancers should be considered early in drug development. Companies are also required to submit to the EMA paediatric investigation plans aiming to ensure that the necessary data to support the authorisation of a medicine for children in EU are of high quality and ethically researched. The specific aims of the forum were i) to identify epigenetic targets or mechanisms of action associated with epigenetic modification relevant to paediatric cancers and ii) to define the landscape for paediatric drug development of epigenetic modifier therapies. DNA methyltransferase inhibitors/hypomethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors were largely excluded from discussion as the aim was to discuss those targets for which therapeutic agents are currently in early paediatric and adult development. Epigenetics is an evolving field and could be highly relevant to many paediatric cancers; the biology is multifaceted and new targets are frequently emerging. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in paediatric malignancy has in most circumstances yet to reach or extend beyond clinical proof of concept, as many targets do not yet have available investigational drugs developed. Eight classes of medicinal products were discussed and prioritised based on the existing level of science to support early evaluation in children: inhibitors of menin, DOT1L, EZH2, EED, BET, PRMT5 and LSD1 and a retinoic acid receptor alpha agonist. Menin inhibitors should be moved rapidly into paediatric development, in view of their biological rationale, strong preclinical activity and ability to fulfil an unmet clinical need. A combination approach is critical for successful utilisation of any epigenetic modifiers (e.g. EZH2 and EED) and exploration of the optimum combination(s) should be supported by preclinical research and, where possible, molecular biomarker validation in advance of clinical translation. A follow-up multistakeholder meeting focussing on BET inhibitors will be held to define how to prioritise the multiple compounds in clinical development that could be evaluated in children with cancer. As epigenetic modifiers are relatively early in development in paediatrics, there is a clear opportunity to shape the landscape of therapies targeting the epigenome in order that efficient and optimum plans for their evaluation in children and adolescents are developed in a timely manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lynley Marshall
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust/Institute of Cancer Research, UK
| | | | | | - Peter C Adamson
- Sanofi US, Emeritus Professor of Paediatrics and Pharmacology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Giovanni Lesa
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Medicines Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Franca Ligas
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Medicines Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Koen Norga
- Antwerp University Hospital, Paediatric Committee of the European Medicines Agency, Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Dominik Karres
- Paediatric Medicines Office, Scientific Evidence Generation Department, Human Medicines Division, European Medicines Agency (EMA), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Yu Q, Liao Z, Liu D, Xie W, Liu Z, Liao G, Wang C. Small molecule inhibitors of the prostate cancer target KMT2D. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 533:540-547. [PMID: 32988590 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine N-methyltransferase 2D (KMT2D), an important methyltransferase that is involved in the methylation of lysine 4 in histone H3 (H3K4) and related to the development of prostate cancer. Hypermethylation of H3K4 is shown in prostate cancer (PCa). However, KMT2D inhibitors have not yet been developed. This article aims to design small molecule inhibitors targeting KMT2D_SET to prevent PCa cell proliferation and migration. Twenty-four inhibitors were firstly designed according to a virtual screening of computers,and shown different degrees of binding to KMT2D_SET. Compounds 1 and 16 showed high binding affinities to KMT2D, with KD values of 147 ± 32.9 μM and 176 ± 37.9 μM, respectively. In addition, they exerted strong inhibitory activity against the PCa cell lines PC-3 and DU145, with IC50 values of 1.1 ± 0.06 μM, 1.5 ± 0.06 μM and 1.8 ± 0.1 μM, 2.3 ± 0.2 μM, respectively. Furthermore, these two compounds significantly suppressed the migration of PCa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Zonglang Liao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China
| | - Guochao Liao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China.
| | - Caiyan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Klossowski S, Miao H, Kempinska K, Wu T, Purohit T, Kim E, Linhares BM, Chen D, Jih G, Perkey E, Huang H, He M, Wen B, Wang Y, Yu K, Lee SCW, Danet-Desnoyers G, Trotman W, Kandarpa M, Cotton A, Abdel-Wahab O, Lei H, Dou Y, Guzman M, Peterson L, Gruber T, Choi S, Sun D, Ren P, Li LS, Liu Y, Burrows F, Maillard I, Cierpicki T, Grembecka J. Menin inhibitor MI-3454 induces remission in MLL1-rearranged and NPM1-mutated models of leukemia. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:981-997. [PMID: 31855575 DOI: 10.1172/jci129126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The protein-protein interaction between menin and mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1) plays a critical role in acute leukemias with translocations of the MLL1 gene or with mutations in the nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) gene. As a step toward clinical translation of menin-MLL1 inhibitors, we report development of MI-3454, a highly potent and orally bioavailable inhibitor of the menin-MLL1 interaction. MI-3454 profoundly inhibited proliferation and induced differentiation in acute leukemia cells and primary patient samples with MLL1 translocations or NPM1 mutations. When applied as a single agent, MI-3454 induced complete remission or regression of leukemia in mouse models of MLL1-rearranged or NPM1-mutated leukemia, including patient-derived xenograft models, through downregulation of key genes involved in leukemogenesis. We also identified MEIS1 as a potential pharmacodynamic biomarker of treatment response with MI-3454 in leukemia, and demonstrated that this compound is well tolerated and did not impair normal hematopoiesis in mice. Overall, this study demonstrates, for the first time to our knowledge, profound activity of the menin-MLL1 inhibitor as a single agent in clinically relevant PDX models of leukemia. These data provide a strong rationale for clinical translation of MI-3454 or its analogs for leukemia patients with MLL1 rearrangements or NPM1 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Klossowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Hongzhi Miao
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Tao Wu
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | - Trupta Purohit
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - EunGi Kim
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Brian M Linhares
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Huang Huang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Miao He
- College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Bo Wen
- College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ke Yu
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Gwenn Danet-Desnoyers
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Winifred Trotman
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Malathi Kandarpa
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Hongwei Lei
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yali Dou
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Luke Peterson
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Tanja Gruber
- Saint Jude Children's Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sarah Choi
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Duxin Sun
- College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pingda Ren
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA.,Kura Oncology, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | - Lian-Sheng Li
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | - Yi Liu
- Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Ivan Maillard
- Life Sciences Institute and.,Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tomasz Cierpicki
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jolanta Grembecka
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Wong NHM, So CWE. Novel therapeutic strategies for MLL-rearranged leukemias. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194584. [PMID: 32534041 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
MLL rearrangement is one of the key drivers and generally regarded as an independent poor prognostic marker in acute leukemias. The standard of care for MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemias has remained largely unchanged for the past 50 years despite unsatisfying clinical outcomes, so there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that a vast number of epigenetic regulators are directly or indirectly involved in MLL-r leukemia, and they are responsible for supporting the aberrant gene expression program mediated by MLL-fusions. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications can be reversed by pharmacologic targeting of the responsible epigenetic regulators. This leads to significant interest in developing epigenetic therapies for MLL-r leukemia. Intriguingly, many of the epigenetic enzymes also involve in DNA damage response (DDR), which can be potential targets for synthetic lethality-induced therapies. In this review, we will summarize some of the recent advances in the development of epigenetic and DDR therapeutics by targeting epigenetic regulators or protein complexes that mediate MLL-r leukemia gene expression program and key players in DDR that safeguard essential genome integrity. The rationale and molecular mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic effects will also be discussed with a focus on how these treatments can disrupt MLL-fusion mediated transcriptional programs and impair DDR, which may help overcome treatment resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nok-Hei Mickey Wong
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Chi Wai Eric So
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sugeedha J, Gautam J, Tyagi S. SET1/MLL family of proteins: functions beyond histone methylation. Epigenetics 2020; 16:469-487. [PMID: 32795105 PMCID: PMC8078731 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1809873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The SET1 family of enzymes are well known for their involvement in the histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methylation, a conserved trait of euchromatin associated with transcriptional activation. These methyltransferases are distinct, and involved in various biological functions in the cell. Impairment in the function of SET1 family members leads to a number of abnormalities such as skeletal and neurological defects, leukaemogenesis and even lethality. Tremendous progress has been made in understanding the unique biological roles and the mechanism of SET1 enzymes in context with H3K4 methylation/canonical functions. However, in recent years, several studies have indicated the novel role of SET1 family proteins, other than H3K4 methylation, which are equally important for cellular functions. In this review, we focus on these non-canonical function of SET1 family members.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeyapal Sugeedha
- Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Uppal, Hyderabad, India
| | - Jyoti Gautam
- Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Uppal, Hyderabad, India
| | - Shweta Tyagi
- Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Uppal, Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Rugo HS, Jacobs I, Sharma S, Scappaticci F, Paul TA, Jensen-Pergakes K, Malouf GG. The Promise for Histone Methyltransferase Inhibitors for Epigenetic Therapy in Clinical Oncology: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3059-3082. [PMID: 32445185 PMCID: PMC7467409 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes are essential for normal development and the maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression in mammals. Changes in gene expression and malignant cellular transformation can result from disruption of epigenetic mechanisms, and global disruption in the epigenetic landscape is a key feature of cancer. The study of epigenetics in cancer has revealed that human cancer cells harbor both genetic alterations and epigenetic abnormalities that interplay at all stages of cancer development. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic aberrations are potentially reversible through epigenetic therapy, providing a therapeutically relevant treatment option. Histone methyltransferase inhibitors are emerging as an epigenetic therapy approach with great promise in the field of clinical oncology. The recent accelerated approval of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2; also known as histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2) inhibitor tazemetostat for metastatic or locally advanced epithelioid sarcoma marks the first approval of such a compound for the treatment of cancer. Many other histone methyltransferase inhibitors are currently in development, some of which are being tested in clinical studies. This review focuses on histone methyltransferase inhibitors, highlighting their potential in the treatment of cancer. We also discuss the role for such epigenetic drugs in overcoming epigenetically driven drug resistance mechanisms, and their value in combination with other therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
49
|
Targeting epigenetic protein-protein interactions with small-molecule inhibitors. Future Med Chem 2020; 12:1305-1326. [PMID: 32551894 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2020-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play essential roles in regulating gene expression, and their dysregulations have been implicated in many diseases. These PPIs are comprised of reader domains recognizing post-translational modifications on histone proteins, and of scaffolding proteins that maintain integrities of epigenetic complexes. Targeting PPIs have become focuses for development of small-molecule inhibitors and anticancer therapeutics. Here we summarize efforts to develop small-molecule inhibitors targeting common epigenetic PPI domains. Potent small molecules have been reported for many domains, yet small domains that recognize methylated lysine side chains on histones are challenging in inhibitor development. We posit that the development of potent inhibitors for difficult-to-prosecute epigenetic PPIs may be achieved by interdisciplinary approaches and extensive explorations of chemical space.
Collapse
|
50
|
Insights on the regulation of the MLL/SET1 family histone methyltransferases. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194561. [PMID: 32304759 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In eukaryotes, histone H3K4 methylation by the MLL/SET1 family histone methyltransferases is enriched at transcription regulatory elements including gene promoters and enhancers. The level of H3K4 methylation is highly correlated with transcription activation and is one of the most frequently used histone post-translational modifications to predict transcriptional outcome. Recently, it has been shown that rearrangement of the cellular landscape of H3K4 mono-methylation at distal enhancers precedes cell fate transition and is used for identification of novel regulatory elements for development and disease progression. Similarly, broad H3K4 tri-methylation regions have also been used to predict intrinsic tumor suppression properties of regulator regions in a variety of cellular models. Understanding the regulation for how H3K4 methylation is deposited and regulated is of paramount importance. In this review, we will discuss new findings on how the MLL/SET1 family enzymes are regulated on chromatin and their potential functional and regulatory implications. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The MLL family of proteins in normal development and disease edited by Thomas A Milne.
Collapse
|