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Gong Y, Germeraad WTV, Zhang X, Wu N, Li B, Janssen L, He Z, Gijbels MJJ, Wu B, Gijsbers BLMG, Olieslagers TI, Bos GMJ, Zheng L, Klein Wolterink RGJ. NKG2A genetic deletion promotes human primary NK cell anti-tumor responses better than an anti-NKG2A monoclonal antibody. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2711-2727. [PMID: 38943249 PMCID: PMC11405175 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells eliminate infected or cancer cells via their cytotoxic capacity. NKG2A is an inhibitory receptor on NK cells and cancer cells often overexpress its ligand HLA-E to evade NK cell surveillance. Given the successes of immune checkpoint blockade in cancer therapy, NKG2A is an interesting novel target. However, anti-NKG2A antibodies have shown limited clinical response. In the pursuit of enhancing NK cell-mediated anti-tumor responses, we devised a Cas9-based strategy to delete KLRC1, encoding NKG2A, in human primary NK cells. Our approach involved electroporation of KLRC1-targeting Cas9 ribonucleoprotein resulting in effective ablation of NKG2A expression. Compared with anti-NKG2A antibody blockade, NKG2AKO NK cells exhibited enhanced activation, reduced suppressive signaling, and elevated expression of key transcription factors. NKG2AKO NK cells overcame inhibition from HLA-E, significantly boosting NK cell activity against solid and hematologic cancer cells. We validated this efficacy across multiple cell lines, a xenograft mouse model, and primary human leukemic cells. Combining NKG2A knockout with antibody coating of tumor cells further enhanced cytotoxicity through ADCC. Thus, we provide a comprehensive comparison of inhibition of the NKG2A pathway using genetic ablation and antibodies and provide novel insight in the observed differences in molecular mechanisms, which can be translated to enhance adoptive NK cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P.R. China; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Wilfred T V Germeraad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands; CiMaas BV, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Xulin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Nisha Wu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P.R. China
| | - Lynn Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Zongzhong He
- Department of Transfusion Medicine of General Hospital of Southern Theatre Command, Guangzhou 510515, P.R. China
| | - Marion J J Gijbels
- GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Experimental Vascular Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bodeng Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P.R. China
| | - Birgit L M G Gijsbers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Timo I Olieslagers
- GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Transplantation Immunology, Tissue Typing Laboratory, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gerard M J Bos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands; CiMaas BV, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P.R. China.
| | - Roel G J Klein Wolterink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, 6227 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands; GROW - Research Institute for Oncology & Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Poirier D. Description of Chemical Synthesis, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Characterization and Biological Activity of Estrane-Based Inhibitors/Activators of Steroidogenesis. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083499. [PMID: 37110733 PMCID: PMC10143840 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083499] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones play a crucial role in several aspects of human life, and steroidogenesis is the process by which hormones are produced from cholesterol using several enzymes that work in concert to obtain the appropriate levels of each hormone at the right time. Unfortunately, many diseases, such as cancer, endometriosis, and osteoporosis as examples, are caused by an increase in the production of certain hormones. For these diseases, the use of an inhibitor to block the activity of an enzyme and, in doing so, the production of a key hormone is a proven therapeutic strategy whose development continues. This account-type article focuses on seven inhibitors (compounds 1-7) and an activator (compound 8) of six enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, namely steroid sulfatase, aldo-keto reductase 1C3, types 1, 2, 3, and 12 of the 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. For these steroid derivatives, three topics will be addressed: (1) Their chemical synthesis from the same starting material, estrone, (2) their structural characterization using nuclear magnetic resonance, and (3) their in vitro or in vivo biological activities. These bioactive molecules constitute potential therapeutic or mechanistic tools that could be used to better understand the role of certain hormones in steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec Research Center-Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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Poirier D, Nyachieo A, Romano A, Roy J, Maltais R, Chai D, Delvoux B, Tomassetti C, Vanhie A. An irreversible inhibitor of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 inhibits estradiol synthesis in human endometriosis lesions and induces regression of the non-human primate endometriosis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 222:106136. [PMID: 35691460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2022.106136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder affecting about 10% of women and can lead to invalidating painful symptoms and infertility. Since there is no current definitive cure for this disease, new therapeutic options are necessary. 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) is involved in the production of estradiol (E2), the most potent estrogen in women, and of 5-androstene-3β,17β-diol (5-diol), a weaker estrogen than E2, but whose importance increases after menopause. 17β-HSD1 is therefore a pharmacological target of choice for the treatment of estrogen-dependent diseases such as endometriosis. We developed a targeted-covalent (irreversible) and non-estrogenic inhibitor of 17β-HSD1, a molecule named PBRM, and herein evaluated its efficiency for the treatment of endometriosis. In a cell-free assay containing estrone (E1), the natural substrate of 17β-HSD1, PBRM was able to block the formation of E2 in a collection of 50 human endometriosis lesions from a different clinical feature type, location, and phase. When given orally by gavage at 15 mg/kg to baboons, the resulting plasmatic concentration of PBRM was found to be sufficiently high (up to 125 ng/mL) for an efficacy study in a non-human primate (baboon) endometriosis model. After 2 months of treatment, the number of lesions/adhesions decreased in 60% of animals (3/5) in the PBRM-treated group, compared to the placebo group which showed an increase in the number of lesion/adhesions in 60% (3/5) of animals. Indeed, the total number of lesions/adhesions decreased in treated group (-6.5 or -19% when excluding one animal) while it increased in the control group receiving a placebo (+11%). Analysis of specific endometriotic lesions revealed that PBRM decreased the number of red lesions (-67%; 8/12) and white lesions (-35%; 11/31), but not of blue-black lesions. Similarly, PBRM decreased the surface area of dense adhesions and filmy adhesions, as compared to placebo. Also, PBRM treatment did not significantly affect the number of menstrual days. Finally, this targeted covalent inhibitor showed no adverse effects and no apparent toxicity for the duration of the treatment. These data indicate that 17β-HSD1 inhibitor PBRM is a promising candidate for therapy targeting endometriosis and supports the need of additional efforts toward clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
| | - Atunga Nyachieo
- Institute of Primate Research, PO Box 24481-00502, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrea Romano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW: School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, CHU de Québec Research Center, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Chai
- Institute of Primate Research, PO Box 24481-00502, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bert Delvoux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW: School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Carla Tomassetti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven University Fertility Centre, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arne Vanhie
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven University Fertility Centre, Leuven, Belgium
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The cell-line-derived subcutaneous tumor model in preclinical cancer research. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:2108-2128. [PMID: 35859135 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00709-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-bearing experimental animals are essential for preclinical cancer drug development. A broad range of tumor models is available, with the simplest and most widely used involving a tumor of mouse or human origin growing beneath the skin of a mouse: the subcutaneous tumor model. Here, we outline the different types of in vivo tumor model, including some of their advantages and disadvantages and how they fit into the drug-development process. We then describe in more detail the subcutaneous tumor model and key steps needed to establish it in the laboratory, namely: choosing the mouse strain and tumor cells; cell culture, preparation and injection of tumor cells; determining tumor volume; mouse welfare; and an appropriate experimental end point. The protocol leads to subcutaneous tumor growth usually within 1-3 weeks of cell injection and is suitable for those with experience in tissue culture and mouse experimentation.
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Overexpression of Human Estrogen Biosynthetic Enzyme Hydroxysteroid (17beta) Dehydrogenase Type 1 Induces Adenomyosis-like Phenotype in Transgenic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094815. [PMID: 35563206 PMCID: PMC9104619 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydroxysteroid (17beta) dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD17B1) is an enzyme that converts estrone to estradiol, while adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent disease with poorly understood pathophysiology. In the present study, we show that mice universally over-expressing human estrogen biosynthetic enzyme HSD17B1 (HSD17B1TG mice) present with adenomyosis phenotype, characterized by histological and molecular evaluation. The first adenomyotic changes with endometrial glands partially or fully infiltrated into the myometrium appeared at the age of 5.5 months in HSD17B1TG females and became more prominent with increasing age. Preceding the phenotype, increased myometrial smooth muscle actin positivity and increased amount of glandular myofibroblast cells were observed in HSD17B1TG uteri. This was accompanied by transcriptomic upregulation of inflammatory and estrogen signaling pathways. Further, the genes upregulated in the HSD17B1TG uterus were enriched with genes previously observed to be induced in the human adenomyotic uterus, including several genes of the NFKB pathway. A 6-week-long HSD17B1 inhibitor treatment reduced the occurrence of the adenomyotic changes by 5-fold, whereas no effect was observed in the vehicle-treated HSD17B1TG mice, suggesting that estrogen is the main upstream regulator of adenomyosis-induced uterine signaling pathways. HSD17B1 is considered as a promising drug target to inhibit estrogen-dependent growth of endometrial disorders. The present data indicate that HSD17B1 over-expression in TG mice results in adenomyotic changes reversed by HSD17B1 inhibitor treatment and HSD17B1 is, thus, a potential novel drug target for adenomyosis.
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C-Ring Oxidized Estrone Acetate Derivatives: Assessment of Antiproliferative Activities and Docking Studies. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12073579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
C-Ring oxidized estrone acetate derivatives as antiproliferative agents were prepared and tested against five cancer cell lines by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Flow cytometry assays to evaluate cell viability and modifications in cell cycle phases and molecular docking research against estrogen receptor α, steroid sulfatase, and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 were performed. 9α-Hydroxy,11β-nitrooxyestrone acetate was the most cytotoxic molecule against hormone-dependent cancer cells. Furthermore, flow cytometry experiments revealed that this 9α-hydroxy,11β-nitrooxy derivative markedly reduced HepaRG cells viability (~92%) after 24 h of treatment. However, 9α-hydroxyestrone acetate led to selective inhibition of HepaRG cells growth, inducing a G0/G1 cycle arrest, and did not originate a proliferation effect on T47-D cancer cells. Docking studies estimated a generally lower affinity of these compounds to estrogen receptor α than predicted for estrone and 17β-estradiol. Therefore, this structural modification can be of interest to develop new anticancer estrane derivatives devoid of estrogenic action.
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Coradini D. De novo cholesterol biosynthesis: an additional therapeutic target for the treatment of postmenopausal breast cancer with excessive adipose tissue. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:841-852. [PMID: 36654818 PMCID: PMC9834634 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00116] [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: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset and development of breast cancer in postmenopausal women are associated with closely related individual-dependent factors, including weight gain and high levels of circulating androgens. Adipose tissue is the most peripheral site of aromatase enzyme synthesis; therefore, the excessive accumulation of visceral fat results in increased androgens aromatization and estradiol production that provides the microenvironment favorable to tumorigenesis in mammary epithelial cells expressing estrogen receptors (ERs). Moreover, to meet the increased requirement of cholesterol for cell membrane assembly and the production of steroid hormones to sustain their proliferation, ER-positive cells activate de novo cholesterol biosynthesis and subsequent steroidogenesis. Several approaches have been followed to neutralize the de novo cholesterol synthesis, including specific enzyme inhibitors, statins, and, more recently, metformin. Cumulating evidence indicated that inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis by statins and metformin may be a promising therapeutic strategy to block breast cancer progression. Unlike antiestrogens and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) which compete for binding to ER and inhibit androgens aromatization, respectively, statins block the production of mevalonic acid by inhibiting the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, and metformin hampers the activation of the sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) transcription factor, thus inhibiting the synthesis of several enzymes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis. Noteworthy, statins and metformin not only improve the prognosis of overweight patients with ER-positive cancer but also improve the prognosis of patients with triple-negative breast cancer, the aggressive tumor subtype that lacks, at present, specific therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danila Coradini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Campus Cascina Rosa, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy,Correspondence: Danila Coradini, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Campus Cascina Rosa, University of Milan, Via Vanzetti 5, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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Lespérance M, Roy J, Djiemeny Ngueta A, Maltais R, Poirier D. Synthesis of 16β-derivatives of 3-(2-bromoethyl)-estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17β-ol as inhibitors of 17β-HSD1 and/or steroid sulfatase for the treatment of estrogen-dependent diseases. Steroids 2021; 172:108856. [PMID: 33945801 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2021.108856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) and steroid sulfatase (STS) are involved in the synthesis of the most potent estrogen in the human body, estradiol (E2). These enzymes are known to play a pivotal role in the progression of estrogen-dependent diseases, such as breast cancer and endometriosis. Therefore, the inhibition of 17β-HSD1 and/or STS represents a promising avenue to modulate the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors or lesions. We recently established the key role of a bromoethyl side chain added at the C3-position of a 16β-carbamoyl-benzyl-E2 nucleus to covalently inhibit 17β-HSD1. To extend the structure-activity relationship study to the C16β-position of this new selective irreversible inhibitor (PBRM), we synthesized a series of analog compounds by changing the nature of the C16β-side chain but keeping the 2-bromoethyl group at position C3. We determined their 17β-HSD1 inhibitions in T-47D cells (transformation of E1 into E2), but we did not obtain a stronger 17β-HSD1 inhibitor than PBRM. Compounds 16 and 17 were found to be more likely to bind to the catalytic site and showed a promising but moderate inhibitory activity with estimated IC50 values of 0.5 and 0.7 µM, respectively (about 10 times higher than PBRM). Interestingly, adding one or two sulfamate groups in the D-ring's surroundings did not significantly decrease compounds' potential to inhibit 17β-HSD1, but clearly improved their potential to inhibit STS. These results open the door to the development of a new family of steroid derivatives with dual (17β-HSD1 and STS) inhibiting actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Lespérance
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec, QC G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec, QC G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Adrien Djiemeny Ngueta
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec, QC G1V4G2, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec, QC G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec, QC G1V4G2, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V0A6, Canada.
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New Estrone Oxime Derivatives: Synthesis, Cytotoxic Evaluation and Docking Studies. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092687. [PMID: 34064380 PMCID: PMC8125528 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The interest in the introduction of the oxime group in molecules aiming to improve their biological effects is increasing. This work aimed to develop new steroidal oximes of the estrane series with potential antitumor interest. For this, several oximes were synthesized by reaction of hydroxylamine with the 17-ketone of estrone derivatives. Then, their cytotoxicity was evaluated in six cell lines. An estrogenicity assay, a cell cycle distribution analysis and a fluorescence microscopy study with Hoechst 3358 staining were performed with the most promising compound. In addition, molecular docking studies against estrogen receptor α, steroid sulfatase, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 and β-tubulin were also accomplished. The 2-nitroestrone oxime showed higher cytotoxicity than the parent compound on MCF-7 cancer cells. Furthermore, the oximes bearing halogen groups in A-ring evidenced selectivity for HepaRG cells. Remarkably, the Δ9,11-estrone oxime was the most cytotoxic and arrested LNCaP cells in the G2/M phase. Fluorescence microscopy studies showed the presence of condensed DNA typical of prophase and condensed and fragmented nuclei characteristic of apoptosis. However, this oxime promoted the proliferation of T47-D cells. Interestingly, molecular docking studies estimated a strong interaction between Δ9,11-estrone oxime and estrogen receptor α and β-tubulin, which may account for the described effects.
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A Targeted-Covalent Inhibitor of 17β-HSD1 Blocks Two Estrogen-Biosynthesis Pathways: In Vitro (Metabolism) and In Vivo (Xenograft) Studies in T-47D Breast Cancer Models. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081841. [PMID: 33924352 PMCID: PMC8069897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) is responsible for the production of estrogens estradiol (E2) and 5-androsten-3β,17β-diol (5-diol). This enzyme is therefore a target of choice for the treatment of estrogen-dependent diseases such as breast cancer and endometriosis, by blocking estrogen biosynthesis. After we developed the first irreversible and non-estrogenic 17β-HSD1 inhibitor, a molecule named PBRM, our goal was to demonstrate its therapeutic potential. PBRM was able to block the formation of E2 and 5-diol in T-47D human breast cancer cells. When given orally to mice, PBRM was also able to block the tumor growth without any observed toxic effects. Thanks to its irreversible type of inhibition, PBRM retained its anti-tumor growth effect, even after reducing its frequency of administration to only once a week, a clear advantage over reversible inhibitors. These results strongly support the use of PBRM as a new approach in the treatment of breast cancer. Abstract 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) plays an important role in estrogen-dependent breast tumor growth. In addition to being involved in the production of estradiol (E2), the most potent estrogen in women, 17β-HSD1 is also responsible for the production of 5-androsten-3β,17β-diol (5-diol), a weaker estrogen than E2, but whose importance increases after menopause. 17β-HSD1 is therefore a target of choice for the treatment of estrogen-dependent diseases such as breast cancer and endometriosis. After we developed the first targeted-covalent (irreversible) and non-estrogenic inhibitor of 17β-HSD1, a molecule named PBRM, our goal was to demonstrate its therapeutic potential. Enzymatic assays demonstrated that estrone (E1) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) were transformed into E2 and 5-diol in T-47D human breast cancer cells, and that PBRM was able to block these transformations. Thereafter, we tested PBRM in a mouse tumor model (cell-derived T-47D xenografts). After treatment of ovariectomized (OVX) mice receiving E1 or DHEA, PBRM given orally was able to reduce the tumor growth at the control (OVX) level without any observed toxic effects. Thanks to its irreversible type of inhibition, PBRM retained its anti-tumor growth effect, even after reducing its frequency of administration to only once a week, a clear advantage over reversible inhibitors.
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Mottinelli M, Sinreih M, Rižner TL, Leese MP, Potter BVL. N-Phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline: An Alternative Scaffold for the Design of 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 1 Inhibitors. ChemMedChem 2020; 16:259-291. [PMID: 33151004 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000762] [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: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases catalyse interconversion at the C17 position between oxidized and reduced forms of steroidal nuclear receptor ligands. The type 1 enzyme, expressed in malignant cells, catalyses reduction of the less-active estrone to estradiol, and inhibitors have therapeutic potential in estrogen-dependent diseases such as breast and ovarian cancers and in endometriosis. Synthetic decoration of the nonsteroidal N-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ) template was pursued by using Pomeranz-Fritsch-Bobbitt, Pictet-Spengler and Bischler-Napieralski approaches to explore the viability of this scaffold as a steroid mimic. Derivatives were evaluated biologically in vitro as type 1 enzyme inhibitors in a bacterial cell homogenate as source of recombinant protein. Structure-activity relationships are discussed. THIQs possessing a 6-hydroxy group, lipophilic substitutions at the 1- or 4-positions in combination with N-4'-chlorophenyl substitution were most favourable for activity. Of these, one compound had an IC50 of ca. 350 nM as a racemate, testifying to the applicability of this novel approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Mottinelli
- Wolfson Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath, UK.,Present address: Department of Medicinal Chemistry School of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1345 Center Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Maša Sinreih
- Institute of Biochemistry Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tea L Rižner
- Institute of Biochemistry Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mathew P Leese
- Wolfson Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath, UK
| | - Barry V L Potter
- Drug Discovery & Medicinal Chemistry Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK.,Wolfson Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath, UK
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12
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Maltais R, Poirier D. Development of a Gram-Scale Synthesis of PBRM, an Irreversible Inhibitor of 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1. Org Process Res Dev 2019. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.8b00402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
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13
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Essential oils disrupt steroidogenesis in a feto-placental co-culture model. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 90:33-43. [PMID: 31425786 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
We determined whether 5 common essential oils (basil, fennel seed, orange, black pepper and sage) interfered with feto-placental steroidogenesis in a co-culture model composed of fetal-like adrenocortical (H295R) and placental trophoblast-like (BeWo) cells. After a 24 h exposure, only basil and fennel seed oil significantly increased hormone concentrations of estradiol, estrone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, progesterone, and estriol. Basil and fennel seed oil were shown to significantly alter the expression of steroidogenic enzymes involved in cholesterol transport and steroid hormone biosynthesis, including StAR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD1/2, SULT2A1, and HSD17β1, -4, and -5. Also, basil and fennel seed oil stimulated placental-specific promoter I.1 and pII-derived CYP19 mRNA in BeWo and H295R cells, respectively, as well as, increased CYP19 enzyme activity. Our results indicate that further study is necessary to determine the potential risks of using basil and fennel seed oils during pregnancy considering their potential to disrupt steroidogenic enzyme activity and expression in vitro.
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14
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Heinosalo T, Saarinen N, Poutanen M. Role of hydroxysteroid (17beta) dehydrogenase type 1 in reproductive tissues and hormone-dependent diseases. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 489:9-31. [PMID: 30149044 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal synthesis and metabolism of sex steroids is involved in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, such as endometriosis and cancers arising from the breast and uterus. Steroid biosynthesis is a multistep enzymatic process proceeding from cholesterol to highly active sex steroids via different intermediates. Human Hydroxysteroid (17beta) dehydrogenase 1 (HSD17B1) enzyme shows a high capacity to produce the highly active estrogen, estradiol, from a precursor hormone, estrone. However, the enzyme may also play a role in other steps of the steroid biosynthesis pathway. In this article, we have reviewed the literature on HSD17B1, and summarize the role of the enzyme in hormone-dependent diseases in women as evidenced by preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taija Heinosalo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
| | - Niina Saarinen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
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15
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Poirier D, Roy J, Maltais R, Ayan D. Antisulfatase, Osteogenic, and Anticancer Activities of Steroid Sulfatase Inhibitor EO-33 in Mice. J Med Chem 2019; 62:5512-5521. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Diana Ayan
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research Center, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
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16
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Lespérance M, Barbeau X, Roy J, Maltais R, Lagüe P, Poirier D. Chemical synthesis of C3-oxiranyl/oxiranylmethyl-estrane derivatives targeted by molecular modeling and tested as potential inhibitors of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1. Steroids 2018; 140:104-113. [PMID: 30273695 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) is a promising therapeutic target known to play a pivotal role in the progression of estrogen-dependent diseases such as breast cancer, and endometriosis. This enzyme is responsible for the last step in the biosynthesis of the most potent estrogen, estradiol (E2) and its inhibition would prevent the growth of estrogen-sensitive tumors. Based on molecular modeling with docking experiments, we identified two promising C3-oxiranyl/oxiranylmethyl-estrane derivatives that would bind competitively and irreversibly in the catalytic site of 17β-HSD1. They have been synthesized in a short and efficient route and their inhibitory activities over 17β-HSD1 have been assessed by an enzymatic assay. Compound 15, with an oxiranylmethyl group at position C3, was more likely to bind the catalytic site and showed an interesting, but weak, inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 1.3 µM (for the reduction of estrone into E2 in T-47D cells). Compound 11, with an oxiranyl at position C3, produced a lower inhibition rate, and the IC50 value cannot be determined. When tested in estrogen-sensitive T-47D cells, both compounds were also slightly estrogenic, although much less than the estrogenic hormone E2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Lespérance
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL T4), Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Xavier Barbeau
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), and Centre de Recherche sur la Fonction, la Structure et l'Ingénierie des Protéines (PROTEO), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL T4), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL T4), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Lagüe
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bioinformatic, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), and Centre de Recherche sur la Fonction, la Structure et l'Ingénierie des Protéines (PROTEO), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL T4), Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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17
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Li T, Maltais R, Poirier D, Lin SX. Combined Biophysical Chemistry Reveals a New Covalent Inhibitor with a Low-Reactivity Alkyl Halide. J Phys Chem Lett 2018; 9:5275-5280. [PMID: 30148957 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.8b02225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) plays a pivotal role in the progression of estrogen-related diseases because of its involvement in the biosynthesis of estradiol (E2), constituting a valuable therapeutic target for endocrine treatment. In the present study, we successfully cocrystallized the enzyme with the reversible inhibitor 2-methoxy-16β-( m-carbamoylbenzyl)-E2 (2-MeO-CC-156) as well as the enzyme with the irreversible inhibitor 3-(2-bromoethyl)-16β-( m-carbamoylbenzyl)-17β-hydroxy-1,3,5(10)-estratriene (PBRM). The structures of ternary complexes of 17β-HSD1-2-MeO-CC-156-NADP+ and 17β-HSD1-PBRM-NADP+ comparatively show the formation of a covalent bond between His221 and the bromoethyl side chain of the inhibitor in the PBRM structure. A dynamic process including beneficial molecular interactions that favor the specific binding of a low-reactivity inhibitor and subsequent N-alkylation event through the participation of His221 in the enzyme catalytic site clearly demonstrates the covalent bond formation. This finding opens the door to a new design of alkyl halide-based specific covalent inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents for different enzymes, contributing to the development of highly efficient inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tang Li
- CHU de Québec - Research Center , 2705 Boulevard Laurier , Québec , QC G1V 4G2 , Canada
- Faculty of Medicine , Université Laval , Québec , QC G1V 0A6 , Canada
| | - René Maltais
- CHU de Québec - Research Center , 2705 Boulevard Laurier , Québec , QC G1V 4G2 , Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- CHU de Québec - Research Center , 2705 Boulevard Laurier , Québec , QC G1V 4G2 , Canada
- Faculty of Medicine , Université Laval , Québec , QC G1V 0A6 , Canada
| | - Sheng-Xiang Lin
- CHU de Québec - Research Center , 2705 Boulevard Laurier , Québec , QC G1V 4G2 , Canada
- Faculty of Medicine , Université Laval , Québec , QC G1V 0A6 , Canada
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18
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Maltais R, Trottier A, Roy J, Ayan D, Bertrand N, Poirier D. Pharmacokinetic profile of PBRM in rodents, a first selective covalent inhibitor of 17β-HSD1 for breast cancer and endometriosis treatments. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:167-176. [PMID: 29248731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of a covalent inhibitor of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) is a promising approach for the treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer and endometriosis. After reporting the steroid derivative PBRM as a first potent covalent inhibitor of 17β-HSD1 without estrogenic activity, we are now interested in studying its pharmaceutical behavior. The metabolism study in a human liver microsomal preparation showed a gradual transformation of PBRM into PBRM-O, an oxidized ketonic form of PBRM at position C17. Interestingly, PBRM-O also inhibits 17β-HSD1 and is not estrogenic in estrogen-sensitive T-47D cells. However, when PBRM was injected subcutaneously (sc) in mice, a very small proportion of PBRM-O was measured in a 24 h-time course experiment. A pharmacokinetic study in mice revealed suitable values for half-life (T1/2 = 3.4 h), clearance (CL = 2088 mL/h kg), distribution volume (Vz = 10.3 L/kg) and absolute bioavailability (F = 65%) when PBRM was injected sc at 14.7 mg/kg. A good F value of 33% was also obtained when PBRM was given orally. A tritiated version of PBRM, 3H-PBRM, was synthesized and used for an in vivo biodistribution study that showed its gradual accumulation in various mouse tissues (peak at 6 h) followed by elimination until complete disappearance after 72 h. Elimination was found to occur in feces (93%) and urine (7%) as revealed by a mass balance experiment. PBRM was also evaluated for its toxicity in mice and it was found to be very well tolerated after weekly sc administration (30-405 mg/kg for 8 weeks) or by po administration (300-900 mg/kg for 4 weeks). Overall, these experiments represent important steps in the preclinical characterization of the pharmaceutical behavior of PBRM, as well as for its translation to clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Trottier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Diana Ayan
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Nicolas Bertrand
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-13), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec - Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), Québec, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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19
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Hilborn E, Stål O, Jansson A. Estrogen and androgen-converting enzymes 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and their involvement in cancer: with a special focus on 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, 2, and breast cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 8:30552-30562. [PMID: 28430630 PMCID: PMC5444764 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones such as estrogens and androgens are involved in the development and differentiation of the breast tissue. The activity and concentration of sex steroids is determined by the availability from the circulation, and on local conversion. This conversion is primarily mediated by aromatase, steroid sulfatase, and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. In postmenopausal women, this is the primary source of estrogens in the breast. Up to 70-80% of all breast cancers express the estrogen receptor-α, responsible for promoting the growth of the tissue. Further, 60-80% express the androgen receptor, which has been shown to have tissue protective effects in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer, and a more ambiguous response in estrogen receptor negative breast cancers. In this review, we summarize the function and clinical relevance in cancer for 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 1, which facilitates the reduction of estrone to estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone to androstendiol and dihydrotestosterone to 3α- and 3β-diol as well as 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 2 which mediates the oxidation of estradiol to estrone, testosterone to androstenedione and androstendiol to dehydroepiandrosterone. The expression of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 1 and 2 alone and in combination has been shown to predict patient outcome, and inhibition of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 1 has been proposed to be a prime candidate for inhibition in patients who develop aromatase inhibitor resistance or in combination with aromatase inhibitors as a first line treatment. Here we review the status of inhibitors against 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 1. In addition, we review the involvement of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases 4, 5, 7, and 14 in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hilborn
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Department of Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Olle Stål
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Department of Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Agneta Jansson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Department of Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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20
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Insight into the mode of action and selectivity of PBRM, a covalent steroidal inhibitor of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 144:149-161. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Han H, Thériault JF, Chen G, Lin SX. Substrate inhibition of 17β-HSD1 in living cells and regulation of 17β-HSD7 by 17β-HSD1 knockdown. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 172:36-45. [PMID: 28554725 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This study addresses first the role of human 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) in breast cancer (BC) cells. The enzyme has a high estrone-activating activity that is subject to strong substrate inhibition as shown by enzyme kinetics at the molecular level. We used BC cells to verify this phenomenon in living cells: estrone concentration increase did reduce the reaction with 0.025 to 4μM substrate. Moreover, 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) demonstrated some inhibition of estrogen activation at both the molecular and cellular levels. The presence of DHT did not change the tendency toward substrate inhibition for estrone conversion, but shifted the inhibition toward higher substrate concentrations. Moreover, a binding study demonstrated that both DHT and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) can be bound to the enzyme, thereby supporting the multi-specificity of 17β-HSD1. We then followed the concentrations of estradiol and performed q-RT-PCR measurements of reductive 17β-HSDs after 17β-HSD1 inhibition. The estradiol decrease by the 17β-HSD1 inhibition was demonstrated lending support to this observation. Knockdown and inhibition of 17β-HSD1 produced reduction in estradiol levels and the down-regulation of another reductive enzyme 17β-HSD7, thus "amplifying" the reduction of estradiol by the 17β-HSD1 modulation itself. The critical positioning of 17β-HSD7 in sex-hormone-regulation as well as the mutual regulation of steroid enzymes via estradiol in BC, are clearly demonstrated. Our study demonstrates that fundamental enzymological mechanisms are relevant in living cells. Moreover, further enzyme study in cells is merited to advance biological and medical research. We also demonstrated the central role of 17β-HSD7 in sex-hormone conversion and regulation, supporting it as a novel target for estrogen-dependent (ER+) BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Han
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec Research Center (CHUL) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Jean-François Thériault
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec Research Center (CHUL) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Guang Chen
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Sheng-Xiang Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Quebec Research Center (CHUL) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec G1V4G2, Canada.
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22
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Beck KR, Kaserer T, Schuster D, Odermatt A. Virtual screening applications in short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase research. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 171:157-177. [PMID: 28286207 PMCID: PMC6831487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several members of the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) enzyme family play fundamental roles in adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis as well as in the metabolism of steroids, oxysterols, bile acids, and retinoids in peripheral tissues, thereby controlling the local activation of their cognate receptors. Some of these SDRs are considered as promising therapeutic targets, for example to treat estrogen-/androgen-dependent and corticosteroid-related diseases, whereas others are considered as anti-targets as their inhibition may lead to disturbances of endocrine functions, thereby contributing to the development and progression of diseases. Nevertheless, the physiological functions of about half of all SDR members are still unknown. In this respect, in silico tools are highly valuable in drug discovery for lead molecule identification, in toxicology screenings to facilitate the identification of hazardous chemicals, and in fundamental research for substrate identification and enzyme characterization. Regarding SDRs, computational methods have been employed for a variety of applications including drug discovery, enzyme characterization and substrate identification, as well as identification of potential endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC). This review provides an overview of the efforts undertaken in the field of virtual screening supported identification of bioactive molecules in SDR research. In addition, it presents an outlook and addresses the opportunities and limitations of computational modeling and in vitro validation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina R Beck
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Teresa Kaserer
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Daniela Schuster
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Alex Odermatt
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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23
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Zhang Y, Xu YY, Yao CB, Li JT, Zhao XN, Yang HB, Zhang M, Yin M, Chen J, Lei QY. Acetylation targets HSD17B4 for degradation via the CMA pathway in response to estrone. Autophagy 2017; 13:538-553. [PMID: 28296597 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2016.1268302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of hormone metabolism is implicated in human breast cancer. 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 4 (HSD17B4) catalyzes the conversion of estradiol (E2) to estrone (E1), and is associated with the pathogenesis and development of various cancers. Here we show that E1 upregulates HSD17B4 acetylation at lysine 669 (K669) and thereby promotes HSD17B4 degradation via chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), while a single mutation at K669 reverses the degradation and confers migratory and invasive properties to MCF7 cells upon E1 treatment. CREBBP and SIRT3 dynamically control K669 acetylation level of HSD17B4 in response to E1. More importantly, K669 acetylation is inversely correlated with HSD17B4 in human breast cancer tissues. Our study reveals a crosstalk between acetylation and CMA degradation in HSD17B4 regulation, and a critical role of the regulation in the malignant progression of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Ying-Ying Xu
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Chuan-Bo Yao
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Jin-Tao Li
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiang-Ning Zhao
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Hong-Bin Yang
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Min Zhang
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Miao Yin
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
| | - Jing Chen
- b Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology , Winship Cancer Institute of Emory, Emory University School of Medicine , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Qun-Ying Lei
- a Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Cancer Metabolism Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University , Shanghai , China
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24
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Perreault M, Maltais R, Roy J, Dutour R, Poirier D. Design of a Mestranol 2-N-Piperazino-Substituted Derivative Showing Potent and Selective in vitro and in vivo Activities in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Models. ChemMedChem 2017; 12:177-182. [PMID: 28060448 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201600482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Anticancer structure-activity relationship studies on aminosteroid (5α-androstane) derivatives have emerged with a promising lead candidate: RM-133 (2β-[1-(quinoline-2-carbonyl)pyrrolidine-2-carbonyl]-N-piperazine-5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol), which possesses high in vitro and in vivo activities against several cancer cells, and selectivity over normal cells. However, the relatively weak metabolic stability of RM-133 has been a drawback to its progression toward clinical trials. We investigated the replacement of the androstane backbone by a more stable mestranol moiety. The resulting compound, called RM-581 ({4-[17α-ethynyl-17β-hydroxy-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-2-yl]piperazin-1-yl}[(2S)-1-(quinolin-2-ylcarbonyl)pyrrolidin-2-yl]methanone), was synthesized efficiently in only five steps from commercially available estrone. In comparison with RM-133, RM-581 was found to be twice as metabolically stable, retains potent cytotoxic activity in breast cancer MCF-7 cell culture, and fully blocks tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model of breast cancer. Advantageously, the selectivity over normal cells has been increased with this estrane version of RM-133. In fact, RM-581 showed a better selectivity index (15.3 vs. 3.0) for breast cancer MCF-7 cells over normal breast MCF-10A cells, and was found to be nontoxic toward primary human kidney proximal tubule cells at doses reaching 50 μm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Perreault
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Jenny Roy
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Raphaël Dutour
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4-42), 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
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25
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Maltais R, Trottier A, Barbeau X, Lagüe P, Perreault M, Thériault JF, Lin SX, Poirier D. Impact of structural modifications at positions 13, 16 and 17 of 16β-(m-carbamoylbenzyl)-estradiol on 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 inhibition and estrogenic activity. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 161:24-35. [PMID: 26519987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The chemical synthesis of four stereoisomers (compounds 5a-d) of 16β-(m-carbamoylbenzyl)-estradiol, a potent reversible inhibitor of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1), and two intermediates (compounds 3a and b) was performed. Assignment of all nuclear magnetic resonance signals confirmed the stereochemistry at positions 13, 16 and 17. Nuclear overhauser effects showed clear correlations supporting a C-ring chair conformation for 5a and b and a C-ring boat conformation for 5c and d. These compounds were tested as 17β-HSD1 inhibitors and to assess their proliferative activity on estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells (T-47D) and androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells (LAPC-4). Steroid derivative 5a showed the best inhibitory activity for the transformation of estrone to estradiol (95, 82 and 27%, at 10, 1 and 0.1μM, respectively), but like the other isomers 5c and d, it was found to be estrogenic. The intermediate 3a, however, was weakly estrogenic at 1μM, not at all at 0.1μM, and showed an interesting inhibitory potency on 17β-HSD1 (90, 59 and 22%, at 10, 1 and 0.1μM, respectively). As expected, no compound showed an androgenic activity. The binding modes for compounds 3a and b, 5a-d and CC-156 were evaluated from molecular modeling. While the non-polar interactions were conserved for all the inhibitors in their binding to 17β-HSD1, differences in polar interactions and in binding conformational energies correlated to the inhibitory potencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Maltais
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Trottier
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Xavier Barbeau
- Département de chimie, Institut de biologie intégrative et des systèmes (IBIS), Québec City, QC, Canada; Centre de recherche sur la fonction, la structure et l'ingénierie des protéines (PROTEO),Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Lagüe
- Centre de recherche sur la fonction, la structure et l'ingénierie des protéines (PROTEO),Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Département de biochimie microbiologie et bio-informatique, Institut de biologie intégrative et des systèmes (IBIS), Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Martin Perreault
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-François Thériault
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sheng-Xiang Lin
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec-Research Center (CHUL, T4), Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.
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Current knowledge of the multifunctional 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD17B1). Gene 2016; 588:54-61. [PMID: 27102893 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
At the late 1940s, 17β-HSD1 was discovered as the first member of the 17β-HSD family with its gene cloned. The three-dimensional structure of human 17β-HSD1 is the first example of any human steroid converting enzyme. The human enzyme's structure and biological function have thus been studied extensively in the last two decades. In humans, the enzyme is expressed in placenta, ovary, endometrium and breast. The high activity of estrogen activation provides the basis of 17β-HSD1's implication in estrogen-dependent diseases, such as breast cancer, endometriosis and non-small cell lung carcinomas. Its dual function in estrogen activation and androgen inactivation has been revealed in molecular and breast cancer cell levels, significantly stimulating the proliferation of such cells. The enzyme's overexpression in breast cancer was demonstrated by clinical samples. Inhibition of human 17β-HSD1 led to xenograft tumor shrinkage. Unfortunately, through decades of studies, there is still no drug using the enzyme's inhibitors available. This is due to the difficulty to get rid of the estrogenic activity of its inhibitors, which are mostly estrogen analogues. New non-steroid inhibitors for the enzyme provide new hope for non-estrogenic inhibitors of the enzyme.
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Pharmacophore Models and Pharmacophore-Based Virtual Screening: Concepts and Applications Exemplified on Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases. Molecules 2015; 20:22799-832. [PMID: 26703541 PMCID: PMC6332202 DOI: 10.3390/molecules201219880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Computational methods are well-established tools in the drug discovery process and can be employed for a variety of tasks. Common applications include lead identification and scaffold hopping, as well as lead optimization by structure-activity relationship analysis and selectivity profiling. In addition, compound-target interactions associated with potentially harmful effects can be identified and investigated. This review focuses on pharmacophore-based virtual screening campaigns specifically addressing the target class of hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Many members of this enzyme family are associated with specific pathological conditions, and pharmacological modulation of their activity may represent promising therapeutic strategies. On the other hand, unintended interference with their biological functions, e.g., upon inhibition by xenobiotics, can disrupt steroid hormone-mediated effects, thereby contributing to the development and progression of major diseases. Besides a general introduction to pharmacophore modeling and pharmacophore-based virtual screening, exemplary case studies from the field of short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) research are presented. These success stories highlight the suitability of pharmacophore modeling for the various application fields and suggest its application also in futures studies.
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Segawa T, Teramoto S, Omi K, Miyauchi O, Watanabe Y, Osada H. Changes in estrone and estradiol levels during follicle development: a retrospective large-scale study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:54. [PMID: 26032991 PMCID: PMC4461898 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0051-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The improved reagent for measuring estradiol (E2), the ST AIA-PACK iE2 reagent, has a higher specificity for the measurement of E2 levels than the original ST AIA-PACK E2 reagent, because of its lower cross-reactivity with estrone (E1). As we had E2 data obtained with either of the reagents, we analyzed changes in E1 and E2 levels during follicle development. METHODS The study included 14371 serum hormone measurements from 4412 patients who underwent oocyte retrieval or frozen/thawed embryo transfer in natural cycle in vitro fertilization in Shinbashi YUME clinic, Tokyo, between June 2011 and May 2014. The age of the patients ranged from 24 to 48 year (mean and standard deviation, 39.8 ± 4.0 year). Patients were categorized into three age groups (<38 year, 38-40 year, and >40 year) and into 10 groups of largest follicle diameter from 11 to 20 mm, with 1-mm intervals. Serum E2 levels were measured in the follicular phase with either the ST AIA-PACK E2 reagent or the ST AIA-PACK iE2 reagent, and the data were compared. Also, for 26 randomly selected samples, E2 was measured using both reagents, together with E1 and E3, and the E1/E2 ratios were compared. RESULTS E2 concentrations measured with the ST AIA-PACK iE2 reagent were significantly lower than those measured with the ST AIA-PACK E2 reagent in the largest follicle diameter category of 11-17 mm in the <38 year group, in the largest follicle diameter category of 11-18 mm in the 38-40 year group, and in the largest follicle diameter category of 11-15 mm in the >40 year group. The serum E1/E2 ratio in the 26 samples was 3.4 ± 1.1 and 0.7 ± 0.1 in the early follicular phase and in the ovulatory phase, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The difference between the E2 concentrations measured with the ST AIA-PACK E2 reagent and the ST AIA-PACK iE2 reagent tended to decrease as the follicle diameter increased, particularly in the older patients, which suggests E1 secretion is more abundant in the early follicular phase and in younger patients than in the ovulatory phase and in older patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Segawa
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
| | - Shokichi Teramoto
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
| | - Kenji Omi
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
| | - Osamu Miyauchi
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
| | - Yoshiaki Watanabe
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
| | - Hisao Osada
- Shinbashi YUME Clinic, Excel Shinbashi, 2-5-1, Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
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29
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Zhang CY, Wang WQ, Chen J, Lin SX. Reductive 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases which synthesize estradiol and inactivate dihydrotestosterone constitute major and concerted players in ER+ breast cancer cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 150:24-34. [PMID: 25257817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The reductive 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases which catalyze the last step in estrogen activation for estrogen dependent breast cancer cells were studied. Their biological function and the effects of their knockdown for cancer cell proliferation were demonstrated. The multidisciplinary study involves enzyme catalysis, sex-hormone and cell cycle regulation, as well as cell proliferation in breast cancer cells. Reductive 17β-HSD1, -7 and -12 were studied in the main breast cancer epithelial cells MCF-7 and T47D. Modification of estradiol and 5α-dihydrotestosterone concentrations was monitored by ELISA assay while corresponding cell viability measured by MTT assay. Cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry. Dual activity of estradiol activation and 5α-dihydrotestosterone reduction by 17β-HSD1 and -7 was critical for breast cancer cell (T47D and MCF-7) viability. Cell viability was decreased by 35.8% ± 1.6% in T47D cells after simultaneously knocking down 17β-HSD1 and -7. MCF-7 cell viability was decreased by 29.3% ± 4.2% using a combination of siRNAs and inhibitors. By knocking down 17β-HSD7, we have provided the first demonstration of the significant role of this enzyme in the stimulation of breast cancer cell viability as a result of its high activity on androgen reduction with positive feedback on estradiol production. A further decrease in cell viability was not observed with additional knockdown of 17β-HSD12 after 17β-HSD1 and 7. Breast cancer cell cycle progression was impeded to enter the S phase from G0-G1 after knocking down 17β-HSD1 and -7. In summary, this is the first demonstration that the dual activity in estrone activation and 5α-dihydrotestosterone reduction are the functional basis of reductive 17β-HSDs in breast cancer cells. 17β-HSD1 and -7 are principal reductive 17β-HSDs and major players in the viability of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. Combined targeting of these enzymes may be potential for molecular therapy of such cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Yan Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, CHU de Quebec-Research Center (CHUL) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnic University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei-Qi Wang
- Shanghai Engineer and technology Research Center of Reproductive Health Drug and Devices, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiong Chen
- Shanghai Engineer and technology Research Center of Reproductive Health Drug and Devices, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng-Xiang Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, CHU de Quebec-Research Center (CHUL) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Shanghai Engineer and technology Research Center of Reproductive Health Drug and Devices, Shanghai, China.
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30
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Järvensivu P, Saloniemi-Heinonen T, Awosanya M, Koskimies P, Saarinen N, Poutanen M. HSD17B1 expression enhances estrogen signaling stimulated by the low active estrone, evidenced by an estrogen responsive element-driven reporter gene in vivo. Chem Biol Interact 2015; 234:126-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2015.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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31
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Wang X, Gérard C, Thériault JF, Poirier D, Doillon CJ, Lin SX. Synergistic control of sex hormones by 17β-HSD type 7: a novel target for estrogen-dependent breast cancer. J Mol Cell Biol 2015; 7:568-79. [PMID: 25966904 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjv028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) type 1 is known as a critical target to block the final step of estrogen production in estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Recent confirmation of the role of dyhydroxytestosterone (DHT) in counteracting estrogen-induced cell growth prompted us to study the reductive 17β-HSD type 7 (17β-HSD7), which activates estrone while markedly inactivating DHT. The role of DHT in breast cancer cell proliferation is demonstrated by its independent suppression of cell growth in the presence of a physiological concentration of estradiol (E2). Moreover, an integral analysis of a large number of clinical samples in Oncomine datasets demonstrated the overexpression of 17β-HSD7 in breast carcinoma. Inhibition of 17β-HSD7 in breast cancer cells resulted in a lower level of E2 and a higher level of DHT, successively induced regulation of cyclinD1, p21, Bcl-2, and Bik, consequently arrested cell cycle in the G(0)/G(1) phase, and triggered apoptosis and auto-downregulation feedback of the enzyme. Such inhibition led to significant shrinkage of xenograft tumors with decreased cancer cell density and reduced 17β-HSD7 expression. Decreased plasma E2 and elevated plasma DHT levels were also found. Thus, the dual functional 17β-HSD7 is proposed as a novel target for estrogen-dependent breast cancer by regulating the balance of E2 and DHT. This demonstrates a conceptual advance on the general belief that the major role of this enzyme is in cholesterol metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiang Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Catherine Gérard
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Jean-François Thériault
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Charles J Doillon
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Sheng-Xiang Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center (CHUL, CHU) and Laval University, Québec City, Québec, G1V4G2, Canada
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32
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Vini R, Sreeja S. Punica granatum and its therapeutic implications on breast carcinogenesis: A review. Biofactors 2015; 41:78-89. [PMID: 25857627 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Punica granatum has a recorded history of pharmacological properties which can be attributed to its rich reservoir of phytochemicals. Investigations in recent years have established its tremendous potential as an antitumorogenic agent against various cancers including breast cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. The plausible role of Punica as a therapeutic agent, as an adjuvant in chemotherapy, and its dietary implications as chemopreventive agent in breast cancer have been explored. Mechanistic studies have revealed that Punica extracts and its components, individually or in combination, can modulate and target key proteins and genes involved in breast cancer. Our earlier finding also demonstrated the role of methanolic extract of pomegranate pericarp in reducing proliferation in breast cancer by binding to estrogen receptor at the same time not affecting uterine weight unlike estradiol or tamoxifen. This review analyses other plausible mechanisms of Punica in preventing the progression of breast cancer and how it can possibly be a therapeutic agent by acting at various steps of carcinogenesis including proliferation, invasion, migration, metastasis, angiogenesis, and inflammation via various molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindran Vini
- Cancer Research Programme, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, India
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33
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Identification of fused 16β,17β-oxazinone-estradiol derivatives as a new family of non-estrogenic 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2015; 93:470-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.01.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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34
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Trottier A, Maltais R, Poirier D. Identification of a first enzymatic activator of a 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. ACS Chem Biol 2014; 9:1668-73. [PMID: 24910887 DOI: 10.1021/cb500109e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Small molecule activators that directly modulate the activity of an enzyme are uncommon entities, and such activators had never yet been identified for any 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD). We hereby report the fortuitous discovery of a steroid derivative that caused an up to 3-fold increase in the activity of 17β-HSD12. The stimulation of estrone to estradiol conversion has been characterized in intact and homogenized stably transfected HEK-293 cells and has also been observed in T47D breast cancer cells. Structure-activity relationships closely linked to the nature of the substituent on the [1,3]oxazinan-2-one ring of an estradiol derivative emerged from this study and may help in the identification of a previously unsuspected endogenous activation of 17β-HSD12. This activator will therefore be a useful tool to study this relatively unknown enzyme as well as the possible activation of other 17β-HSD family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Trottier
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry,
Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec (CHUL, T4),
and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - René Maltais
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry,
Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec (CHUL, T4),
and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry,
Endocrinology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec (CHUL, T4),
and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
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35
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Yin YD, Fu M, Brooke DG, Heinrich DM, Denny WA, Jamieson SMF. The Activity of SN33638, an Inhibitor of AKR1C3, on Testosterone and 17β-Estradiol Production and Function in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer and ER-Positive Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2014; 4:159. [PMID: 24995161 PMCID: PMC4061482 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2014.00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
AKR1C3 is a novel therapeutic target in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer because of its ability to produce testosterone and 17β-estradiol intratumorally, thus promoting nuclear receptor signaling and tumor progression. A panel of CRPC, ER-positive breast cancer and high/low AKR1C3-expressing cell lines were treated with SN33638, a selective inhibitor of AKR1C3, in the presence of hormone or prostaglandin (PG) precursors, prior to evaluation of cell proliferation and levels of 11β-PG F2α (11β-PGF2α), testosterone, 17β-estradiol, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). A meta-analysis of AKR1C3 mRNA expression in patient samples was also conducted, which revealed that AKR1C3 mRNA was upregulated in CRPC, but downregulated in ER-positive breast cancer. 11β-PGF2α and testosterone levels in the cell line panel correlated with AKR1C3 protein expression. SN33638 prevented 11β-PGF2α formation in cell lines that expressed AKR1C3, but partially inhibited testosterone formation and subsequently cell proliferation and/or PSA expression only in high (LAPC4 AKR1C3-overexpressing cells) or moderate (22RV1) AKR1C3-expressing cell lines. SN33638 had little effect on 17β-estradiol production or estrone-stimulated cell proliferation in ER-positive breast cancer cell lines. Although SN33638 could prevent 11β-PGF2α formation, its ability to prevent testosterone and 17β-estradiol production and their roles in CRPC and ER-positive breast cancer progression was limited due to AKR1C3-independent steroid hormone production, except in LAPC4 AKR1C3 cells where the majority of testosterone was AKR1C3-dependent. These results suggest that inhibition of AKR1C3 is unlikely to produce therapeutic benefit in CRPC and ER-positive breast cancer patients, except possibly in the small subpopulation of CRPC patients with tumors that have upregulated AKR1C3 expression and are dependent on AKR1C3 to produce the testosterone required for their growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yarong Diana Yin
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Melissa Fu
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Darby G Brooke
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Daniel M Heinrich
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - William A Denny
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand ; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Stephen M F Jamieson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand ; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
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36
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Maltais R, Ayan D, Trottier A, Barbeau X, Lagüe P, Bouchard JE, Poirier D. Discovery of a Non-Estrogenic Irreversible Inhibitor of 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 from 3-Substituted-16β-(m-carbamoylbenzyl)-estradiol Derivatives. J Med Chem 2013; 57:204-22. [DOI: 10.1021/jm401639v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- René Maltais
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research
Center (CHUL, T4-42) and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec
City, Québec G1V
4G2, Canada
| | - Diana Ayan
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research
Center (CHUL, T4-42) and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec
City, Québec G1V
4G2, Canada
| | - Alexandre Trottier
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research
Center (CHUL, T4-42) and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec
City, Québec G1V
4G2, Canada
| | - Xavier Barbeau
- Département
de Chimie, Institut de Biologie Intégrative et Des Systèmes
(IBIS), and Centre de Recherche sur la Fonction, la Structure et l’Ingénierie
des Protéines (PROTEO), Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Patrick Lagüe
- Département
de Biochimie Microbiologie et Bio-informatique, Institut de Biologie
Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), and Centre de Recherche
sur la Fonction, la Structure et l’Ingénierie des Protéines
(PROTEO), Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Bouchard
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research
Center (CHUL, T4-42) and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec
City, Québec G1V
4G2, Canada
| | - Donald Poirier
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Oncology and Nephrology Unit, CHU de Québec—Research
Center (CHUL, T4-42) and Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec
City, Québec G1V
4G2, Canada
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Cysteine-10 on 17 β -Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 1 Has Stabilizing Interactions in the Cofactor Binding Region and Renders Sensitivity to Sulfhydryl Modifying Chemicals. Int J Cell Biol 2013; 2013:769536. [PMID: 24348564 PMCID: PMC3855964 DOI: 10.1155/2013/769536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17β-HSD1) catalyzes the conversion of estrone to the potent estrogen estradiol. 17β-HSD1 is highly expressed in breast and ovary tissues and represents a prognostic marker for the tumor progression and survival of patients with breast cancer and other estrogen-dependent tumors. Therefore, the enzyme is considered a promising drug target against estrogen-dependent cancers. For the development of novel inhibitors, an improved understanding of the structure-function relationships is essential. In the present study, we examined the role of a cysteine residue, Cys10, in the Rossmann-fold NADPH binding region, for 17β-HSD1 function and tested the sensitivity towards sulfhydryl modifying chemicals. 3D structure modeling revealed important interactions of Cys10 with residues involved in the stabilization of amino acids of the NADPH binding pocket. Analysis of enzyme activity revealed that 17β-HSD1 was irreversibly inhibited by the sulfhydryl modifying agents N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) and dithiocarbamates. Preincubation with increasing concentrations of NADPH protected 17β-HSD1 from inhibition by these chemicals. Cys10Ser mutant 17β-HSD1 was partially protected from inhibition by NEM and dithiocarbamates, emphasizing the importance of Cys10 in the cofactor binding region. Substitution of Cys10 with serine resulted in a decreased protein half-life, without significantly altering kinetic properties. Despite the fact that Cys10 on 17β-HSD1 seems to have limited potential as a target for new enzyme inhibitors, the present study provides new insight into the structure-function relationships of this enzyme.
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Knower KC, To SQ, Clyne CD. Intracrine oestrogen production and action in breast cancer: an epigenetic focus. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 137:157-64. [PMID: 23339934 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Epigenome changes have been widely demonstrated to contribute to the initiation and progression of a vast array of cancers including breast cancer. The reversible process of many epigenetic modifications is thus an attractive feature for the development of novel therapeutic measures. In oestrogen receptor α (hereinafter referred to as ER) positive tumours, endocrine therapies have proven beneficial in patient care, particularly in postmenopausal women where two-thirds of tumours are oestrogen dependent. However, resistance to such therapies is a common feature amongst individuals. In the current review, we discuss the influence that epigenetics has on oestrogen dependent breast cancers, in particular (i) the production of intracrine oestrogen in postmenopausal women, (ii) the action of oestrogen on epigenetic processes, and (iii) the links between epigenetics and endocrine resistance and the current advancements in epigenetic therapy that target this process. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'CSR 2013'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Knower
- Cancer Drug Discovery, Prince Henry's Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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