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Deng Q, Chen L, Zhang G, Liu L, Luo SM, Gao X. TRIAL-based combination therapies in cancers. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112570. [PMID: 38971105 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112570] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) shows promising therapeutic potential in cancer treatment as it is able to trigger extrinsic apoptotic pathways by binding to the cognate death receptor, causing broad-spectrum apoptosis in cancer cells with negligible toxicity to normal cells. However, the majority of cancers display resistance to TRAIL, limiting its clinical utility. Overcoming resistance to TRAIL therapies remains a challenge in the development of effective anti-cancer strategies. To address the limitations of TRAIL therapy, a viable alternative approach involves combining TRAIL with more potent drugs compared to monotherapy. This combination strategy aims to induce synergistic effects or sensitize drug-resistant cancer cells. This review provides an overview of relevant modalities of TRAIL combination therapy, highlighting different drug classes. The findings demonstrate that combining TRAIL with other agents can effectively counteract resistance observed with TRAIL therapies in cancer. These findings lay a foundation for future advancements in TRAIL-based therapies for treating various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiumin Deng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Luxuan Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Gui Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Langxia Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Shi-Ming Luo
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510317, China.
| | - Xuejuan Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology and State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Institute of Life and Health Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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2
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Therapeutic targeting of TRAIL death receptors. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:57-70. [PMID: 36629496 PMCID: PMC9988005 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) along with its potent and selective antitumor effects initiated a decades-long search for therapeutic strategies to target the TRAIL pathway. First-generation approaches were focused on the development of TRAIL receptor agonists (TRAs), including recombinant human TRAIL (rhTRAIL) and TRAIL receptor-targeted agonistic antibodies. While such TRAIL pathway-targeted therapies showed promise in preclinical data and clinical trials have been conducted, none have advanced to FDA approval. Subsequent second-generation approaches focused on improving upon the specific limitations of first-generation approaches by ameliorating the pharmacokinetic profiles and agonistic abilities of TRAs as well as through combinatorial approaches to circumvent resistance. In this review, we summarize the successes and shortcomings of first- and second-generation TRAIL pathway-based therapies, concluding with an overview of the discovery and clinical introduction of ONC201, a compound with a unique mechanism of action that represents a new generation of TRAIL pathway-based approaches. We discuss preclinical and clinical findings in different tumor types and provide a unique perspective on translational directions of the field.
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3
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Deng D, Shah K. TRAIL of Hope Meeting Resistance in Cancer. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:989-1001. [PMID: 32718904 PMCID: PMC7688478 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis selectively via its interaction with the death receptors TRAILR1/DR4 and TRAILR2/DR5 in a wide range of cancers, while sparing normal cells. Despite its tremendous potential for cancer therapeutics, the translation of TRAIL into the clinic has been confounded by TRAIL-resistant cancer populations. We discuss different molecular mechanisms underlying TRAIL-mediated apoptosis and resistance to TRAIL. We also discuss the successes and failures of recent preclinical and clinical studies of TRAIL-induced apoptosis, and current attempts to overcome TRAIL resistance, and we provide a perspective for improving the prospects of future clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Deng
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Khalid Shah
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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Kih M, Lee EJ, Lee NK, Kim YK, Lee KE, Jeong C, Yang Y, Kim DH, Kim IS. Designed trimer-mimetic TNF superfamily ligands on self-assembling nanocages. Biomaterials 2018; 180:67-77. [PMID: 30025246 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Presentation of an endogenous bioactive ligand in its native form is a key factor in controlling and determining its bioactivity, stability, and therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we developed a novel strategy for presenting trimeric ligands on nanocages by designing, optimizing and testing based on the rational design, high-resolution structural analysis and agonistic activity assays in vitro and in vivo. We successfully designed a nanocage that presents the TNF superfamily member, TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) in its native-like trimeric structure. The native structure of TRAIL complexes was mimicked on the resulting trimeric TRAIL-presenting nanocages (TTPNs) by inserting sufficient spacing, determined from three-dimensional structural models, to provide optimal access to the corresponding receptors. The efficacy of TTPNs as an anti-tumor agent was confirmed in preclinical studies, which revealed up to 330-fold increased affinity, 62.5-fold enhanced apoptotic activity, and improved pharmacokinetic characteristics and stability compared with the monomeric form of TRAIL (mTRAIL). In this latter context, TTPNs exhibited greater than 90% stability over 1 mo, whereas ∼50% of mTRAIL aggregated within 2 d. Consistent with their enhanced stability and ultra-high affinity for the TRAIL receptor, TTPNs effectively induced apoptosis of tumor cells in vivo, leading to effective inhibition of tumor growth. Although TRAIL was used here as a proof-of-concept, all members of the TNF superfamily share the TNF homology domain (THD) and have similar distances between ecto-domain C-termini. Thus, other TNF superfamily ligands could be genetically substituted for the TRAIL ligand on the surface of this biomimetic delivery platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwoo Kih
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jung Lee
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Applied Chemical Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Kyeong Lee
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Kyoung Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Eun Lee
- Advanced Analysis Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Cherlhyun Jeong
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoosoo Yang
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hwee Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - In-San Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
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Ralff MD, El-Deiry WS. TRAIL pathway targeting therapeutics. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2018; 3:197-204. [PMID: 30740527 DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2018.1476062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Despite decades of focused research efforts, cancer remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is capable of inducing cell death selectively in cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Areas covered In this review, the authors cover TRA therapy and strategies that have been undertaken to improve their efficacy, as well as unconventional approaches to TRAIL pathway activation including TRAIL-inducing small molecules. They also discuss mechanisms of resistance to TRAIL and the use of combination strategies to overcome it. Expert commentary Targeting the TRAIL pathway has been of interest in oncology, and although initial clinical trials of TRAIL receptor agonists (TRAs) showed limitations, novel approaches represent the future of TRAIL-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie D Ralff
- MD/PhD Program, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA.,Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Hematology/Oncology and Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Hematology/Oncology and Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA
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6
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c-FLIP and the NOXA/Mcl-1 axis participate in the synergistic effect of pemetrexed plus cisplatin in human choroidal melanoma cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184135. [PMID: 28863158 PMCID: PMC5581197 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Choroidal melanoma is the most common primary malignant intraocular tumor, and very few effective therapies are available to treat it. Our study aimed to understand whether pemetrexed plus cisplatin exerts a beneficial synergistic effect in human choroidal melanoma cells and to delineate the underlying molecular mechanism. To accomplish these aims, we treated choroidal melanoma cells with pemetrexed and cisplatin and assessed cell survival with SRB and MTT assays. Proteins were detected using western blotting analysis. NOXA and CHOP were knocked down with siRNA. We found that pemetrexed or cisplatin alone inhibited survival and induced apoptosis in human choroidal melanoma cells. Furthermore, the expression levels of c-FLIP, an anti-apoptotic protein in the extrinsic apoptosis pathway, and Mcl-1, an anti-apoptotic protein in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, were decreased by pemetrexed or cisplatin respectively, while the expression of a pro-apoptotic protein in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, NOXA, was up-regulated. Moreover, pemetrexed or cisplatin alone increased the protein expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress markers IRE1α, Bip and CHOP. Silencing CHOP expression reduced NOXA expression. These findings suggest that the pemetrexed or cisplatin induced intrinsic apoptosis via activation of the ER stress response. Importantly, combining the two compounds more strongly induced apoptosis. Following the cotreatment, CHOP and NOXA expression increased, while c-FLIP and Mcl-1 expression decreased, and these effects were more pronounced than when using either compound alone. This result suggests that pemetrexed and cisplatin synergistically activate ER stress response-induced apoptosis in choroidal melanoma cells. To summarize, the c-FLIP and NOXA/Mcl-1 axis participated in the synergistic effect of pemetrexed plus cisplatin in human choroidal melanoma cells. Intrinsic apoptosis was induced via activation of the ER stress response. Our study provides important mechanistic insights into potential cancer treatment with pemetrexed plus cisplatin and enriches our understanding of human choroidal melanoma.
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Yu X, Yang YP, Dikici E, Deo SK, Daunert S. Beyond Antibodies as Binding Partners: The Role of Antibody Mimetics in Bioanalysis. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2017; 10:293-320. [PMID: 28375702 PMCID: PMC5895458 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061516-045205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of novel binding proteins or antibody mimetics capable of binding to ligand analytes in a manner analogous to that of the antigen-antibody interaction has spurred increased interest in the biotechnology and bioanalytical communities. The goal is to produce antibody mimetics designed to outperform antibodies with regard to binding affinities, cellular and tumor penetration, large-scale production, and temperature and pH stability. The generation of antibody mimetics with tailored characteristics involves the identification of a naturally occurring protein scaffold as a template that binds to a desired ligand. This scaffold is then engineered to create a superior binder by first creating a library that is then subjected to a series of selection steps. Antibody mimetics have been successfully used in the development of binding assays for the detection of analytes in biological samples, as well as in separation methods, cancer therapy, targeted drug delivery, and in vivo imaging. This review describes recent advances in the field of antibody mimetics and their applications in bioanalytical chemistry, specifically in diagnostics and other analytical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136;
| | - Yu-Ping Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136;
| | - Emre Dikici
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136;
| | - Sapna K Deo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136;
| | - Sylvia Daunert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136;
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8
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Belkahla H, Herlem G, Picaud F, Gharbi T, Hémadi M, Ammar S, Micheau O. TRAIL-NP hybrids for cancer therapy: a review. NANOSCALE 2017; 9:5755-5768. [PMID: 28443893 DOI: 10.1039/c7nr01469d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a worldwide health problem. It is now considered as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. In the last few decades, considerable progress has been made in anti-cancer therapies, allowing the cure of patients suffering from this disease, or at least helping to prolong their lives. Several cancers, such as those of the lung and pancreas, are still devastating in the absence of therapeutic options. In the early 90s, TRAIL (Tumor Necrosis Factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand), a cytokine belonging to the TNF superfamily, attracted major interest in oncology owing to its selective anti-tumor properties. Clinical trials using soluble TRAIL or antibodies targeting the two main agonist receptors (TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2) have, however, failed to demonstrate their efficacy in the clinic. TRAIL is expressed on the surface of natural killer or CD8+ T activated cells and contributes to tumor surveillance. Nanoparticles functionalized with TRAIL mimic membrane-TRAIL and exhibit stronger antitumoral properties than soluble TRAIL or TRAIL receptor agonist antibodies. This review provides an update on the association and the use of nanoparticles associated with TRAIL for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Belkahla
- Nanomedicine Lab, EA 4662, Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
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9
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Sortase A-aided Escherichia coli expression system for functional osteoprotegerin cysteine-rich domain. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2017; 101:4923-4933. [PMID: 28303296 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-017-8188-6] [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: 11/12/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
As a natural inhibitor of the receptor activator of nuclear factor-кB ligand (RANKL), osteprotegerin (OPG) is considered a promising treatment for metabolic bone diseases. Typical approaches for preparing recombinant OPG or its derivatives employ eukaryotic expression systems. Due to the advantages of a prokaryotic expression system, which include its convenience, low cost, and abundant production, in this study, we establish a strategy for preparing functional OPG using the Escherichia coli expression system. After initial failures in preparation of OPG and its truncation, OPG cysteine-rich domain (OPG-CRD/OPGT) by using pET and pGEX vectors, we constructed a sortase A (SrtA)-aided E. coli expression system, in which the expressed protein was a self-cleaving SrtA fusion protein. Using this system, we successfully prepared the recombinant OPGT protein. The BIAcore analyses indicated that the prepared OPGT had high affinities in binding with RANKL and TRAIL. Cell experiments confirmed the inhibitory effects of the prepared OPGT on RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and TRAIL-induced tumor cell apoptosis. The sortase A-aided E. coli expression system for OPGT established in this study may contribute to further studies and commercial applications of OPG.
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10
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Brünker P, Wartha K, Friess T, Grau-Richards S, Waldhauer I, Koller CF, Weiser B, Majety M, Runza V, Niu H, Packman K, Feng N, Daouti S, Hosse RJ, Mössner E, Weber TG, Herting F, Scheuer W, Sade H, Shao C, Liu B, Wang P, Xu G, Vega-Harring S, Klein C, Bosslet K, Umaña P. RG7386, a Novel Tetravalent FAP-DR5 Antibody, Effectively Triggers FAP-Dependent, Avidity-Driven DR5 Hyperclustering and Tumor Cell Apoptosis. Mol Cancer Ther 2016; 15:946-57. [PMID: 27037412 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-15-0647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulated cellular apoptosis and resistance to cell death are hallmarks of neoplastic initiation and disease progression. Therefore, the development of agents that overcome apoptosis dysregulation in tumor cells is an attractive therapeutic approach. Activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway is strongly dependent on death receptor (DR) hyperclustering on the cell surface. However, strategies to activate DR5 or DR4 through agonistic antibodies have had only limited clinical success. To pursue an alternative approach for tumor-targeted induction of apoptosis, we engineered a bispecific antibody (BsAb), which simultaneously targets fibroblast-activation protein (FAP) on cancer-associated fibroblasts in tumor stroma and DR5 on tumor cells. We hypothesized that bivalent binding to both FAP and DR5 leads to avidity-driven hyperclustering of DR5 and subsequently strong induction of apoptosis in tumor cells but not in normal cells. Here, we show that RG7386, an optimized FAP-DR5 BsAb, triggers potent tumor cell apoptosis in vitro and in vivo in preclinical tumor models with FAP-positive stroma. RG7386 antitumor efficacy was strictly FAP dependent, was independent of FcR cross-linking, and was superior to conventional DR5 antibodies. In combination with irinotecan or doxorubicin, FAP-DR5 treatment resulted in substantial tumor regression in patient-derived xenograft models. FAP-DR5 also demonstrated single-agent activity against FAP-expressing malignant cells, due to cross-binding of FAP and DR5 across tumor cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate that RG7386, a novel and potent antitumor agent in both mono- and combination therapies, overcomes limitations of previous DR5 antibodies and represents a promising approach to conquer tumor-associated resistance to apoptosis. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(5); 946-57. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Brünker
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Wartha
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Friess
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Sandra Grau-Richards
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Inja Waldhauer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Ferrara Koller
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Weiser
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Meher Majety
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Valeria Runza
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Huifeng Niu
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center New York, New York, New York
| | - Kathryn Packman
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center New York, New York, New York
| | - Ningping Feng
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center New York, New York, New York
| | - Sherif Daouti
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center New York, New York, New York
| | - Ralf J Hosse
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Ekkehard Mössner
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Thomas G Weber
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Frank Herting
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Werner Scheuer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Hadassah Sade
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Cuiying Shao
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Gary Xu
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Suzana Vega-Harring
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Christian Klein
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Klaus Bosslet
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Pablo Umaña
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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Vazquez-Lombardi R, Phan TG, Zimmermann C, Lowe D, Jermutus L, Christ D. Challenges and opportunities for non-antibody scaffold drugs. Drug Discov Today 2015; 20:1271-83. [PMID: 26360055 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The first candidates from the promising class of small non-antibody protein scaffolds are now moving into clinical development and practice. Challenges remain, and scaffolds will need to be further tailored toward applications where they provide real advantages over established therapeutics to succeed in a rapidly evolving drug development landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Vazquez-Lombardi
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; The University of New South Wales, Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Tri Giang Phan
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; The University of New South Wales, Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Carsten Zimmermann
- University of San Diego, School of Business Administration, 5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
| | - David Lowe
- MedImmune Ltd., Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GH, UK
| | - Lutz Jermutus
- MedImmune Ltd., Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GH, UK; Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane CB2 1TJ, UK.
| | - Daniel Christ
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; The University of New South Wales, Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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12
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Non-immunoglobulin scaffolds: a focus on their targets. Trends Biotechnol 2015; 33:408-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2015.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 03/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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13
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Talekar MK, Allen JE, Dicker DT, El-Deiry WS. ONC201 induces cell death in pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cells. Cell Cycle 2015; 14:2422-8. [PMID: 26030065 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2015.1054086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
ONC201/TIC10 is a small molecule initially discovered by its ability to coordinately induce and activate the TRAIL pathway selectively in tumor cells and has recently entered clinical trials in adult advanced cancers. The anti-tumor activity of ONC201 has previously been demonstrated in several preclinical models of cancer, including refractory solid tumors and a transgenic lymphoma mouse model. Based on the need for new safe and effective therapies in pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and the non-toxic preclinical profile of ONC201, we investigated the in vitro efficacy of ONC201 in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) cell lines to evaluate its therapeutic potential for this disease. ONC201 caused a dose-dependent reduction in the cell viability of NHL cell lines that resulted from induction of apoptosis. As expected from prior observations, induction of TRAIL and its receptor DR5 was also observed in these cell lines. Furthermore, dual induction of TRAIL and DR5 appeared to drive the observed apoptosis and TRAIL expression was correlated linearly with sub-G1 DNA content, suggesting its potential role as a biomarker of tumor response to ONC201-treated lymphoma cells. We further investigated combinations of ONC201 with approved chemotherapeutic agents used to treat lymphoma. ONC201 exhibited synergy in combination with the anti-metabolic agent cytarabine in vitro, in addition to cooperating with other therapies. Together these findings indicate that ONC201 is an effective TRAIL pathway-inducer as a monoagent that can be combined with chemotherapy to enhance therapeutic responses in pediatric NHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mala K Talekar
- a Division of Oncology & Stem Cell Transplant; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia ; Philadelphia , PA USA
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Lim B, Allen JE, Prabhu VV, Talekar MK, Finnberg NK, El-Deiry WS. Targeting TRAIL in the treatment of cancer: new developments. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:1171-85. [DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1049838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Allen JE, Krigsfeld G, Patel L, Mayes PA, Dicker DT, Wu GS, El-Deiry WS. Identification of TRAIL-inducing compounds highlights small molecule ONC201/TIC10 as a unique anti-cancer agent that activates the TRAIL pathway. Mol Cancer 2015; 14:99. [PMID: 25927855 PMCID: PMC4428111 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-015-0346-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We previously reported the identification of ONC201/TIC10, a novel small molecule inducer of the human TRAIL gene that improves efficacy-limiting properties of recombinant TRAIL and is in clinical trials in advanced cancers based on its promising safety and antitumor efficacy in several preclinical models. Methods We performed a high throughput luciferase reporter screen using the NCI Diversity Set II to identify TRAIL-inducing compounds. Results Small molecule-mediated induction of TRAIL reporter activity was relatively modest and the majority of the hit compounds induced low levels of TRAIL upregulation. Among the candidate TRAIL-inducing compounds, TIC9 and ONC201/TIC10 induced sustained TRAIL upregulation and apoptosis in tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. However, ONC201/TIC10 potentiated tumor cell death while sparing normal cells, unlike TIC9, and lacked genotoxicity in normal fibroblasts. Investigating the effects of TRAIL-inducing compounds on cell signaling pathways revealed that TIC9 and ONC201/TIC10, which are the most potent inducers of cell death, exclusively activate Foxo3a through inactivation of Akt/ERK to upregulate TRAIL and its pro-apoptotic death receptor DR5. Conclusion These studies reveal the selective activity of ONC201/TIC10 that led to its selection as a lead compound for this novel class of antitumor agents and suggest that ONC201/TIC10 is a unique inducer of the TRAIL pathway through its concomitant regulation of the TRAIL ligand and its death receptor DR5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua E Allen
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA. .,Current affiliation: Oncoceutics, Inc., Hummelstown, PA, USA.
| | - Gabriel Krigsfeld
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA.
| | - Luv Patel
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA.
| | - Patrick A Mayes
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA.
| | - David T Dicker
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA. .,Department of Medical Oncology and Molecular Therapeutics Program, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, 19111, PA, USA.
| | - Gen Sheng Wu
- Department of Pathology, Program in Molecular Biology and Genetics, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Departments of Medicine, Genetics, and Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Cell Cycle Regulation, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA. .,Department of Medical Oncology and Molecular Therapeutics Program, Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, 19111, PA, USA.
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Allen JE, Prabhu VV, Talekar M, van den Heuvel APJ, Lim B, Dicker DT, Fritz JL, Beck A, El-Deiry WS. Genetic and Pharmacological Screens Converge in Identifying FLIP, BCL2, and IAP Proteins as Key Regulators of Sensitivity to the TRAIL-Inducing Anticancer Agent ONC201/TIC10. Cancer Res 2015; 75:1668-74. [PMID: 25681273 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
ONC201/TIC10 is a small-molecule inducer of the TRAIL gene under current investigation as a novel anticancer agent. In this study, we identify critical molecular determinants of ONC201 sensitivity offering potential utility as pharmacodynamic or predictive response markers. By screening a library of kinase siRNAs in combination with a subcytotoxic dose of ONC201, we identified several kinases that ablated tumor cell sensitivity, including the MAPK pathway-inducer KSR1. Unexpectedly, KSR1 silencing did not affect MAPK signaling in the presence or absence of ONC201, but instead reduced expression of the antiapoptotic proteins FLIP, Mcl-1, Bcl-2, cIAP1, cIAP2, and survivin. In parallel to this work, we also conducted a synergy screen in which ONC201 was combined with approved small-molecule anticancer drugs. In multiple cancer cell populations, ONC201 synergized with diverse drug classes, including the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib. Notably, combining ONC201 and sorafenib led to synergistic induction of TRAIL and its receptor DR5 along with a potent induction of cell death. In a mouse xenograft model of hepatocellular carcinoma, we demonstrated that ONC201 and sorafenib cooperatively and safely triggered tumor regressions. Overall, our results established a set of determinants for ONC201 sensitivity that may predict therapeutic response, particularly in settings of sorafenib cotreatment to enhance anticancer responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua E Allen
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Varun V Prabhu
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Mala Talekar
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - A Pieter J van den Heuvel
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Bora Lim
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - David T Dicker
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer L Fritz
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Adam Beck
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Wafik S El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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Pulka-Ziach K, Pavet V, Chekkat N, Estieu-Gionnet K, Rohac R, Lechner MC, Smulski CR, Zeder-Lutz G, Altschuh D, Gronemeyer H, Fournel S, Odaert B, Guichard G. Thioether analogues of disulfide-bridged cyclic peptides targeting death receptor 5: conformational analysis, dimerisation and consequences for receptor activation. Chembiochem 2014; 16:293-301. [PMID: 25487639 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201402485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic peptides containing redox-stable thioether bridges might provide a useful alternative to disulfide-bridged bioactive peptides. We report the effect of replacing the disulfide bridge with a lanthionine linkage in a 16-mer cyclic peptide that binds to death receptor 5 (DR5, TRAIL-R2). Upon covalent oligomerisation, the disulfide-bridged peptide has previously shown similar behaviour to that of TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), by selectively triggering the DR5 cell death pathway. The structural and biological properties of the DR5-binding peptide and its desulfurised analogue were compared. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) data suggest that these peptides bind DR5 with comparable affinities. The same holds true for dimeric versions of these peptides: the thioether is able to induce DR5-mediated apoptosis of BJAB lymphoma and tumorigenic BJELR cells, albeit to a slightly lower extent compared to its disulfide homologue. NMR analysis revealed subtle variation in the conformations of the two peptides and suggests that the thioether peptide is slightly less folded than its disulfide homologue. These observations could account for the different capability of the two dimers to cluster DR5 receptors on the cell surface and to trigger apoptosis. Nevertheless, our results suggest that the thioether peptide is a potential candidate for evaluation in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Pulka-Ziach
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux, UMR5248 CBMN, Institut Européen de Chimie et Biologie, 2 rue Robert Escarpit, 33607 Pessac (France); Present address: Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw (Poland)
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Allen JE, Krigsfeld G, Mayes PA, Patel L, Dicker DT, Patel AS, Dolloff NG, Messaris E, Scata KA, Wang W, Zhou JY, Wu GS, El-Deiry WS. Dual inactivation of Akt and ERK by TIC10 signals Foxo3a nuclear translocation, TRAIL gene induction, and potent antitumor effects. Sci Transl Med 2014; 5:171ra17. [PMID: 23390247 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3004828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is an antitumor protein that is in clinical trials as a potential anticancer therapy but suffers from drug properties that may limit efficacy such as short serum half-life, stability, cost, and biodistribution, particularly with respect to the brain. To overcome such limitations, we identified TRAIL-inducing compound 10 (TIC10), a potent, orally active, and stable small molecule that transcriptionally induces TRAIL in a p53-independent manner and crosses the blood-brain barrier. TIC10 induces a sustained up-regulation of TRAIL in tumors and normal cells that may contribute to the demonstrable antitumor activity of TIC10. TIC10 inactivates kinases Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), leading to the translocation of Foxo3a into the nucleus, where it binds to the TRAIL promoter to up-regulate gene transcription. TIC10 is an efficacious antitumor therapeutic agent that acts on tumor cells and their microenvironment to enhance the concentrations of the endogenous tumor suppressor TRAIL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua E Allen
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Department of Medicine-Hematology/Oncology, Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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Holland PM. Death receptor agonist therapies for cancer, which is the right TRAIL? Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 25:185-93. [PMID: 24418173 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The activation of cell-surface death receptors represents an attractive therapeutic strategy to promote apoptosis of tumor cells. Several investigational therapeutics that target this extrinsic pathway, including recombinant human Apo2L/TRAIL and monoclonal agonist antibodies directed against death receptors-4 (DR4) or -5 (DR5), have been evaluated in the clinic. Although Phase 1/1b studies provided encouraging preliminary results, findings from randomized Phase 2 studies failed to demonstrate significant clinical benefit. This has raised multiple questions as to why pre-clinical data were not predictive of clinical response. Results from clinical studies and insight into why current agents have failed to yield robust responses are discussed. In addition, new strategies for the development of next generation death receptor agonists are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela M Holland
- Therapeutic Innovation Unit, Amgen Inc., 360 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States.
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Targeting tumor micro-environment for design and development of novel anti-angiogenic agents arresting tumor growth. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 113:333-54. [PMID: 24139944 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2013.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis: a process of generation of new blood vessels has been proved to be necessary for sustained tumor growth and cancer progression. Inhibiting angiogenesis pathway has long been remained a significant hope for the development of novel, effective and target orientated antitumor agents arresting the tumor proliferation and metastasis. The process of neoangiogenesis as a biological process is regulated by several pro- and anti-angiogenic factors, especially vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, hypoxia inducible factor 1 and transforming growth factor. Every endothelial cell destined for vessel formation is equipped with receptors for these angiogenic peptides. Moreover, numerous other angiogenic cytokines such as platelet derived growth factor (PGDF), placenta growth factor (PGF), nerve growth factor (NGF), stem-cell factor (SCF), and interleukins-2, 4, 6 etc. These molecular players performs critical role in regulating the angiogenic switch. Couple of decade's research in molecular aspects of tumor biology has unraveled numerous structural and functional mysteries of these angiogenic peptides. In present article, a detailed update on the functional and structural peculiarities of the various angiogenic peptides is described focusing on structural opportunities made available that has potential to be used to modulate function of these angiogenic peptides in developing therapeutic agents targeting neoplastic angiogenesis. The data may be useful in the mainstream of developing novel anticancer agents targeting tumor angiogenesis. We also discuss major therapeutic agents that are currently used in angiogenesis associated therapies as well as those are subject of active research or are in clinical trials.
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Abdulghani J, Allen JE, Dicker DT, Liu YY, Goldenberg D, Smith CD, Humphreys R, El-Deiry WS. Sorafenib sensitizes solid tumors to Apo2L/TRAIL and Apo2L/TRAIL receptor agonist antibodies by the Jak2-Stat3-Mcl1 axis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75414. [PMID: 24086526 PMCID: PMC3784419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Approximately half of tumor cell lines are resistant to the tumor-selective apoptotic effects of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (Apo22L/TRAIL). Previously, we showed that combining Apo2L/TRAIL with sorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor, results in dramatic efficacy in Apo2L/TRAIL-resistant tumor xenografts via inhibition of Mcl-1. Soluble Apo2L/TRAIL is capable of binding to several surface receptors, including the pro-apoptotic death receptors, DR4 and DR5, and decoy receptors, DcR1 and DcR2. Monoclonal antibodies targeting either of these death receptors are being investigated as antitumor agents in clinical trials. We hypothesized that sorafenib and Apo2L/TRAIL or Apo2L/TRAIL death receptor agonist (TRA) antibodies against DR4 (mapatumumab) and DR5 (lexatumumab) will overcome resistance to Apo2L/TRAIL-mediated apoptosis and as increase antitumor efficacy in Apo2L/TRAIL-sensitive solid tumors. Methodology/Principal Findings We found that Apo2L/TRAIL or TRA antibodies combined with sorafenib synergistically reduce cell growth and increase cell death across a panel of solid tumor cell lines in vitro. This panel included human breast, prostate, colon, liver and thyroid cancers. The cooperativity of these combinations was also observed invivo, as measured by tumor volume and TUNEL staining as a measure of apoptosis. We found that sorafenib inhibits Jak/Stat3 signaling and downregulates their target genes, including cyclin D1, cyclin D2 and Mcl-1, in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions/Significance The combination of sorafenib with Apo2L/TRAIL or Apo2L/TRAIL receptor agonist antibodies sensitizes Apo2L/TRAIL-resistant cells and increases the sensitivity of Apo2L/TRAIL-sensitive cells. Our findings demonstrate the involvement of the Jak2-Stat3-Mcl1 axis in response to sorafenib treatment, which may play a key role in sorafenib-mediated sensitization to Apo2L/TRAIL.
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Swers JS, Grinberg L, Wang L, Feng H, Lekstrom K, Carrasco R, Xiao Z, Inigo I, Leow CC, Wu H, Tice DA, Baca M. Multivalent scaffold proteins as superagonists of TRAIL receptor 2-induced apoptosis. Mol Cancer Ther 2013; 12:1235-44. [PMID: 23645592 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-12-1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Activation of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 2 (TRAILR2) can induce apoptosis in a variety of human cancer cell lines and xenografts, while lacking toxicity in normal cells. The natural ligand and agonistic antibodies show antitumor activity in preclinical models of cancer, and this had led to significant excitement in the clinical potential of these agents. Unfortunately, this optimism has been tempered by trial data that, thus far, are not showing clear signs of efficacy in cancer patients. The reasons for discrepant preclinical and clinical observations are not understood, but one possibility is that the current TRAILR2 agonists lack sufficient potency to achieve a meaningful response in patients. Toward addressing that possibility, we have developed multivalent forms of a new binding scaffold (Tn3) that are superagonists of TRAILR2 and can induce apoptosis in tumor cell lines at subpicomolar concentrations. The monomer Tn3 unit was a fibronectin type III domain engineered for high-affinity TRAILR2 binding. Multivalent presentation of this basic unit induced cell death in TRAILR2-expressing cell lines. Optimization of binding affinity, molecular format, and valency contributed to cumulative enhancements of agonistic activity. An optimized multivalent agonist consisting of 8 tandem Tn3 repeats was highly potent in triggering cell death in TRAIL-sensitive cell lines and was 1 to 2 orders of magnitude more potent than TRAIL. Enhanced potency was also observed in vivo in a tumor xenograft setting. The TRAILR2 superagonists described here have the potential for superior clinical activity in settings insensitive to the current therapeutic agonists that target this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery S Swers
- Department of Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, MedImmune, LLC, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
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Complete Regression of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma by Multiple Injections of Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells Expressing Dodecameric TRAIL and HSV-TK. Clin Cancer Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-1568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Kimberley FC, van der Sloot AM, Guadagnoli M, Cameron K, Schneider P, Marquart JA, Versloot M, Serrano L, Medema JP. The design and characterization of receptor-selective APRIL variants. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:37434-46. [PMID: 22961987 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.406090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), a member of the TNF ligand superfamily with an important role in humoral immunity, is also implicated in several cancers as a prosurvival factor. APRIL binds two different TNF receptors, B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) and transmembrane activator and cylclophilin ligand interactor (TACI), and also interacts independently with heparan sulfate proteoglycans. Because APRIL shares binding of the TNF receptors with B cell activation factor, separating the precise signaling pathways activated by either ligand in a given context has proven quite difficult. In this study, we have used the protein design algorithm FoldX to successfully generate a BCMA-specific variant of APRIL, APRIL-R206E, and two TACI-selective variants, D132F and D132Y. These APRIL variants show selective activity toward their receptors in several in vitro assays. Moreover, we have used these ligands to show that BCMA and TACI have a distinct role in APRIL-induced B cell stimulation. We conclude that these ligands are useful tools for studying APRIL biology in the context of individual receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona C Kimberley
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105 A2, The Netherlands
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