1
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Pessino G, Lonati L, Scotti C, Calandra S, Cazzalini O, Iaria O, Previtali A, Baiocco G, Perucca P, Tricarico A, Vetro M, Stivala LA, Ganini C, Cancelliere M, Zucchetti M, Guardamagna I, Maggi M. Differential effect of asparagine and glutamine removal on three adenocarcinoma cell lines. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35789. [PMID: 39170541 PMCID: PMC11337022 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Asparagine and glutamine depletion operated by the drug Asparaginase (ASNase) has revolutionized therapy in pediatric patients affected by Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), bringing remissions to a remarkable 90 % of cases. However, the knowledge of the proproliferative role of asparagine in adult and solid tumors is still limited. We have here analyzed the effect of ASNase on three adenocarcinoma cell lines (A549, lung adenocarcinoma, MCF-7, breast cancer, and 786-O, kidney cancer). In contrast to MCF-7 cells, 786-O and A549 cells proved to be a relevant target for cell cycle perturbation by asparagine and glutamine shortage. Indeed, when the cell-cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry, A549 showed a canonical response to asparaginase, 786-O cells, instead, showed a reduction of the percentage of cells in the G1 phase and an increase of those in the S-phase. Despite an increased number of PCNA and RPA70 positive nuclear foci, BrdU and EdU incorporation was absent or strongly delayed in treated 786-O cells, thus indicating a readiness of replication forks unmatched by DNA synthesis. In 786-O asparagine synthetase was reduced following treatment and glutamine synthetase was totally absent. Interestingly, DNA synthesis could be recovered by adding Gln to the medium. MCF-7 cells showed no significant changes in the cell cycle phases, in DNA-bound PCNA and in total PCNA, but a significant increase in ASNS and GS mRNA and protein expression. The collected data suggest that the effect observed on 786-O cells following ASNase treatment could rely on mechanisms which differ from those well-known and described for leukemic blasts, consisting of a complete block in the G1/S transition in proliferating cells and on an increase on non-proliferative (G0) blasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Leonardo Lonati
- Laboratory of Radiation Biophysics and Radiobiology, Department of Physics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Calandra
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapy, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ornella Cazzalini
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Ombretta Iaria
- Laboratory of Radiation Biophysics and Radiobiology, Department of Physics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Previtali
- Laboratory of Radiation Biophysics and Radiobiology, Department of Physics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Baiocco
- Laboratory of Radiation Biophysics and Radiobiology, Department of Physics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Perucca
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Tricarico
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Martina Vetro
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Lucia Anna Stivala
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Ganini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, Bari, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, A. Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Marta Cancelliere
- Laboratory of Cancer Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Zucchetti
- Laboratory of Cancer Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan, Italy
| | - Isabella Guardamagna
- Laboratory of Radiation Biophysics and Radiobiology, Department of Physics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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de Andrade B, Renard G, Gennari A, Artico LL, Júnior JR, Kuhn D, Salles PPZ, Volken de Souza CF, Roth G, Chies JM, Yunes JA, Basso LA. Production Process Optimization of Recombinant Erwinia carotovoral-Asparaginase II in Escherichia coli Fed-Batch Cultures and Analysis of Antileukemic Potential. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:34951-34963. [PMID: 39157126 PMCID: PMC11325515 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c04711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
The aims of this work were to optimize the production of Erwinia carotovoral-asparaginase II enzyme in Escherichia coli by different fed-batch cultivation strategies using a benchtop bioreactor and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of the recombinant enzyme against different acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines. The highest enzyme activities (∼98,000 U/L) were obtained in cultures using the DO-stat feeding strategy with induction in 18 h of culture. Under these experimental conditions, the maximum values for recombinant l-asparaginase II (rASNase) yield per substrate, rASNase yield per biomass, and productivity were approximately 1204 U/gglucose, 3660 U/gcells, and 3260 U/(L·h), respectively. This condition was efficient for achieving high yields of the recombinant enzyme, which was purified and used in in vitro antileukemic potential tests. Of all the leukemic cell lines tested, RS4;11 showed the highest sensitivity to rASNase, with an IC50 value of approximately 0.0006 U/mL and more than 70% apoptotic cells. The study demonstrated that the cultivation strategies used were efficient for obtaining high yield and productivity of rASNase with therapeutic potential inasmuch as cytotoxic activity and induction of apoptosis were demonstrated for this protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna
Coelho de Andrade
- National
Institute of Science and Technology in Tuberculosis, Research Center
for Molecular and Functional Biology, Pontifical
Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Medicine and Health Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande
do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Gaby Renard
- Quatro
G Pesquisa & Desenvolvimento Ltd., Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Adriano Gennari
- Food
Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology Graduate Program, University of Vale do Taquari (UNIVATES), Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul 95914-014, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Luís Artico
- Centro
Infantil Boldrini, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-210, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - José Ricardo
Teixeira Júnior
- Centro
Infantil Boldrini, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-210, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Daniel Kuhn
- Food
Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology Graduate Program, University of Vale do Taquari (UNIVATES), Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul 95914-014, Brazil
| | - Priscila Pini Zenatti Salles
- Centro
Infantil Boldrini, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-210, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Claucia Fernada Volken de Souza
- Food
Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology Graduate Program, University of Vale do Taquari (UNIVATES), Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul 95914-014, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Roth
- Pontifical
Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Jocelei Maria Chies
- Quatro
G Pesquisa & Desenvolvimento Ltd., Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
| | - José Andrés Yunes
- Centro
Infantil Boldrini, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-210, Brazil
- Department
of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Luiz Augusto Basso
- National
Institute of Science and Technology in Tuberculosis, Research Center
for Molecular and Functional Biology, Pontifical
Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Medicine and Health Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande
do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
- Graduate
Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande
do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
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3
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Lill CB, Fitter S, Zannettino ACW, Vandyke K, Noll JE. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of chemoresistance in paediatric pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10203-9. [PMID: 39102101 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10203-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Paediatric patients with relapsed B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) have poor prognosis, as relapse-causing clones are often refractory to common chemotherapeutics. While the molecular mechanisms leading to chemoresistance are varied, significant evidence suggests interactions between B-ALL blasts and cells within the bone marrow microenvironment modulate chemotherapy sensitivity. Importantly, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and BM adipocytes are known to support B-ALL cells through multiple distinct molecular mechanisms. This review discusses the contribution of integrin-mediated B-ALL/BM-MSC signalling and asparagine supplementation in B-ALL chemoresistance. In addition, the role of adipocytes in sequestering anthracyclines and generating a BM niche favourable for B-ALL survival is explored. Furthermore, this review discusses the role of BM-MSCs and adipocytes in promoting a quiescent and chemoresistant B-ALL phenotype. Novel treatments which target these mechanisms are discussed herein, and are needed to improve dismal outcomes in patients with relapsed/refractory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb B Lill
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, Solid Tumour Program, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephen Fitter
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, Solid Tumour Program, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, Solid Tumour Program, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kate Vandyke
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, Solid Tumour Program, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jacqueline E Noll
- Myeloma Research Laboratory, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
- Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, Solid Tumour Program, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia.
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4
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Wang X, Gong W, Xiong X, Jia X, Xu J. Asparagine: A key metabolic junction in targeted tumor therapy. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107292. [PMID: 39002867 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Nutrient bioavailability in the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in tumor proliferation and metastasis. Among these nutrients, glutamine is a key substance that promotes tumor growth and proliferation, and its downstream metabolite asparagine is also crucial in tumors. Studies have shown that when glutamine is exhausted, tumor cells can rely on asparagine to sustain their growth. Given the reliance of tumor cell proliferation on asparagine, restricting its bioavailability has emerged as promising strategy in cancer treatment. For instance, the use of asparaginase, an enzyme that depletes asparagine, has been one of the key chemotherapies for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, tumor cells can adapt to asparagine restriction, leading to reduced chemotherapy efficacy, and the mechanisms by which different genetically altered tumors are sensitized or adapted to asparagine restriction vary. We review the sources of asparagine and explore how limiting its bioavailability impacts the progression of specific genetically altered tumors. It is hoped that by targeting the signaling pathways involved in tumor adaptation to asparagine restriction and certain factors within these pathways, the issue of drug resistance can be addressed. Importantly, these strategies offer precise therapeutic approaches for genetically altered cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Weijian Gong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xueyou Xiong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xuemei Jia
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
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5
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Taurino G, Dander E, Chiu M, Pozzi G, Maccari C, Starace R, Silvestri D, Griffini E, Bianchi MG, Carubbi C, Andreoli R, Mirandola P, Valsecchi MG, Rizzari C, D'Amico G, Bussolati O. Asparagine transport through SLC1A5/ASCT2 and SLC38A5/SNAT5 is essential for BCP-ALL cell survival and a potential therapeutic target. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:175-188. [PMID: 38736325 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (BCP-ALL) blasts strictly depend on the transport of extra-cellular asparagine (Asn), yielding a rationale for L-asparaginase (ASNase) therapy. However, the carriers used by ALL blasts for Asn transport have not been identified yet. Exploiting RS4;11 cells as BCP-ALL model, we have found that cell Asn is lowered by either silencing or inhibition of the transporters ASCT2 or SNAT5. The inhibitors V-9302 (for ASCT2) and GluγHA (for SNAT5) markedly lower cell proliferation and, when used together, suppress mTOR activity, induce autophagy and cause a severe nutritional stress, leading to a proliferative arrest and a massive cell death in both the ASNase-sensitive RS4;11 cells and the relatively ASNase-insensitive NALM-6 cells. The cytotoxic effect is not prevented by coculturing leukaemic cells with primary mesenchymal stromal cells. Leukaemic blasts of paediatric ALL patients express ASCT2 and SNAT5 at diagnosis and undergo marked cytotoxicity when exposed to the inhibitors. ASCT2 expression is positively correlated with the minimal residual disease at the end of the induction therapy. In conclusion, ASCT2 and SNAT5 are the carriers exploited by ALL cells to transport Asn, and ASCT2 expression is associated with a lower therapeutic response. ASCT2 may thus represent a novel therapeutic target in BCP-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Taurino
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Erica Dander
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Martina Chiu
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giulia Pozzi
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Maccari
- Laboratory of Industrial Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Rita Starace
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Daniela Silvestri
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Erika Griffini
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Massimiliano G Bianchi
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- MRH-Microbiome Research Hub, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11/A, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Cecilia Carubbi
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberta Andreoli
- Laboratory of Industrial Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- CERT-Center of Excellence for Toxicological Research, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Prisco Mirandola
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Valsecchi
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmelo Rizzari
- Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Giovanna D'Amico
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Ovidio Bussolati
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- MRH-Microbiome Research Hub, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11/A, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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6
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Kumar M, Leekha A, Nandy S, Kulkarni R, Martinez-Paniagua M, Rahman Sefat KMS, Willson RC, Varadarajan N. Enzymatic depletion of circulating glutamine is immunosuppressive in cancers. iScience 2024; 27:109817. [PMID: 38770139 PMCID: PMC11103382 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Although glutamine addiction in cancer cells is extensively reported, there is controversy on the impact of glutamine metabolism on the immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). To address the role of extracellular glutamine, we enzymatically depleted circulating glutamine using PEGylated Helicobacter pylori gamma-glutamyl transferase (PEG-GGT) in syngeneic mouse models of breast and colon cancers. PEG-GGT treatment inhibits growth of cancer cells in vitro, but in vivo it increases myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and has no significant impact on tumor growth. By deriving a glutamine depletion signature, we analyze diverse human cancers within the TCGA and illustrate that glutamine depletion is not associated with favorable clinical outcomes and correlates with accumulation of MDSC. Broadly, our results help clarify the integrated impact of glutamine depletion within the TME and advance PEG-GGT as an enzymatic tool for the systemic and selective depletion (no asparaginase activity) of circulating glutamine in live animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monish Kumar
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Ankita Leekha
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Suman Nandy
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Rohan Kulkarni
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Melisa Martinez-Paniagua
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - K. M. Samiur Rahman Sefat
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Richard C. Willson
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Navin Varadarajan
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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7
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Fontes MG, Silva C, Roldán WH, Monteiro G. Exploring the potential of asparagine restriction in solid cancer treatment: recent discoveries, therapeutic implications, and challenges. Med Oncol 2024; 41:176. [PMID: 38879707 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02424-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid crucial for protein biosynthesis and function, and therefore cell maintenance and growth. Furthermore, this amino acid has an important role in regulating several metabolic pathways, such as tricarboxylic acid cycle and the urea cycle. When compared to normal cells, tumor cells typically present a higher demand for asparagine, making it a compelling target for therapy. In this review article, we investigate different facets of asparagine bioavailability intricate role in malignant tumors raised from solid organs. We take a comprehensive look at asparagine synthetase expression and regulation in cancer, including the impact on tumor growth and metastasis. Moreover, we explore asparagine depletion through L-asparaginase as a potential therapeutic method for aggressive solid tumors, approaching different formulations of the enzyme and combinatory therapies. In summary, here we delve into studies about endogenous and exogenous asparagine availability in solid cancers, analyzing therapeutic implications and future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Gabriel Fontes
- Departamento de Tecnologia Bioquímico-Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Silva
- Departamento de Tecnologia Bioquímico-Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - William Henry Roldán
- Departamento de Tecnologia Bioquímico-Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gisele Monteiro
- Departamento de Tecnologia Bioquímico-Farmacêutica, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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8
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Zhang L, Ding S, Tang X, Gao R, Huo R, Xie G. The Improved Antineoplastic Activity of Thermophilic L-Asparaginase Tli10209 via Site-Directed Mutagenesis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:686. [PMID: 38927089 PMCID: PMC11202230 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amino acid deprivation therapy (AADT) is a novel anticancer therapy, considered nontoxic and selective. Thermophilic L-asparaginase enzymes display high stability and activity at elevated temperatures. However, they are of limited use in clinical applications because of their low substrate affinity and reduced activity under physiological conditions, which may necessitate an improved dosage, leading to side effects and greater costs. Thus, in an attempt to improve the activity of L-Asn at 37 °C, with the use of a semi-rational design, eight active-site mutants of Thermococcus litoralis DSM 5473 L-asparaginase Tli10209 were developed. T70A exhibited a 5.11-fold increase compared with the wild enzyme in physiological conditions. Double-mutant enzymes were created by combining mutants with higher hydrolysis activity. T70A/F36Y, T70A/K48L, and T70A/D50G were enhanced by 5.59-, 6.38-, and 5.58-fold. The immobilized enzyme applied in MCF-7 breast cancer cells only required one-seventh of the dose of the free enzyme to achieve the same inhibition rate under near-infrared irradiation. This provides a proof of concept that it is possible to reduce the consumption of L-Asn by improving its activity, thus providing a method to manage side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
| | - Simeng Ding
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (S.D.); (X.T.); (R.G.)
| | - Xiuhui Tang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (S.D.); (X.T.); (R.G.)
| | - Renjun Gao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (S.D.); (X.T.); (R.G.)
| | - Rui Huo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
| | - Guiqiu Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
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9
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Sengupta S, Biswas M, Gandhi KA, Gupta SK, Gera PB, Gota V, Sonawane A. Preclinical evaluation of engineered L-asparaginase variants to improve the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Transl Oncol 2024; 43:101909. [PMID: 38412663 PMCID: PMC10907863 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101909] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Escherichia coli l-asparaginase (EcA), an integral part of multi-agent chemotherapy protocols of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), is constrained by safety concerns and the development of anti-asparaginase antibodies. Novel variants with better pharmacological properties are desirable. METHODS Thousands of novel EcA variants were constructed using protein engineering approach. After preliminary screening, two mutants, KHY-17 and KHYW-17 were selected for further development. The variants were characterized for asparaginase activity, glutaminase activity, cytotoxicity and antigenicity in vitro. Immunogenicity, pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy were tested in vivo. Binding of the variants to pre-existing antibodies in primary and relapsed ALL patients' samples was evaluated. RESULTS Both variants showed similar asparaginase activity but approximately 24-fold reduced glutaminase activity compared to wild-type EcA (WT). Cytotoxicity against Reh cells was significantly higher with the mutants, although not toxic to human PBMCs than WT. The mutants showed approximately 3-fold lower IgG and IgM production compared to WT. Pharmacokinetic study in BALB/c mice showed longer half-life of the mutants (KHY-17- 267.28±9.74; KHYW-17- 167.41±14.4) compared to WT (103.24±18). Single and repeat-doses showed no toxicity up to 2000 IU/kg and 1600 IU/kg respectively. Efficacy in ALL xenograft mouse model showed 80-90 % reduction of leukemic cells with mutants compared to 40 % with WT. Consequently, survival was 90 % in each mutant group compared to 10 % with WT. KHYW-17 showed over 2-fold lower binding to pre-existing anti-asparaginase antibodies from ALL patients treated with l-asparaginase. CONCLUSION EcA variants demonstrated better pharmacological properties compared to WT that makes them good candidates for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumika Sengupta
- School of Biotechnology, Campus-11, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Mainak Biswas
- School of Biotechnology, Campus-11, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Khushboo A Gandhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Khargarh, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Saurabh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Khargarh, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Poonam B Gera
- Department of Pathology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Khargarh, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Vikram Gota
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Khargarh, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India.
| | - Avinash Sonawane
- School of Biotechnology, Campus-11, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, Odisha, India; Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore (IIT Indore), Khandwa Road, Simrol, Madhya Pradesh, 453552, India.
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10
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Zhou Y, Shen J, Chi H, Zhu X, Lu Z, Lu F, Zhu P. Rational engineering and insight for a L-glutaminase activity reduced type II L-asparaginase from Bacillus licheniformis and its antileukemic activity in vitro. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128690. [PMID: 38092107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128690] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Type II L-asparaginase (ASNase) has been approved by the FDA for treating acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL), but its therapeutic effect is limited by low catalytic efficiency and L-glutaminase (L-Gln) activity. This study utilized free energy based molecular dynamics calculations to identify residues associated with substrate binding in Bacillus licheniformis L-asparaginase II (BLASNase) with high catalytical activity. After saturation and combination mutagenesis, the mutant LGT (74 L/75G/111 T) with intensively reduced l-glutamine catalytic activity was generated. The l-glutamine/L-asparagine activity (L-Gln/L-Asn) of LGT was only 6.6 % of parent BLASNase, whereas the L-asparagine (L-Asn) activity was preserved >90 %. Furthermore, structural comparison and molecular dynamics calculations indicated that the mutant LGT had reduced binding ability and affinity towards l-glutamine. To evaluate its effect on acute leukemic cells, LGT was supplied in treating MOLT-4 cells. The experimental results demonstrated that LGT was more cytotoxic and promoted apoptosis compared with commercial Escherichia coli ASNase. Overall, our findings firstly provide insights into reducing l-glutamine activity without impacting L-asparagine activity for BLASNase to possess remarkable potential for anti-leukemia therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Zhou
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Juan Shen
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Huibing Chi
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhaoxin Lu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Fengxia Lu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Ping Zhu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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11
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de Lima JY, de Castro Andreassa E, Venturi Biembengut Í, de Arruda Campos Brasil de Souza T. Dissecting dual specificity: Identifying key residues in L-asparaginase for enhanced acute lymphoid leukemia therapy and reduced adverse effects. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127998. [PMID: 37949271 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127998] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
L-asparaginase from Escherichia coli (EcA) has been used for the treatment of acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) since the 1970s. Nevertheless, the enzyme has a second specificity that results in glutaminase breakdown, resulting in depletion from the patient's body, causing severe adverse effects. Despite the huge interest in the use of this enzyme, the exact process of glutamine depletion is still unknown and there is no consensus regarding L-asparagine hydrolysis. Here, we investigate the role of T12, Y25, and T89 in asparaginase and glutaminase activities. We obtained individual clones containing mutations in the T12, Y25 or T89 residues. After the recombinant production of wild-type and mutated EcA, The purified samples were subjected to structural analysis using Nano Differential Scanning Fluorimetry, which revealed that all samples contained thermostable molecules in their active structural conformation, the homotetramer conformation. The quaternary conformation was confirmed by DLS and SEC. The activity enzymatic assay combined with molecular dynamics simulation identified the contribution of T12, Y25, and T89 residues in EcA glutaminase and asparaginase activities. Our results mapped the enzymatic behavior paving the way for the designing of improved EcA enzymes, which is important in the treatment of ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhenifer Yonara de Lima
- Structural and Computational Proteomics Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ-PR, Curitiba, PR 80320-290, Brazil.
| | - Emanuella de Castro Andreassa
- Structural and Computational Proteomics Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ-PR, Curitiba, PR 80320-290, Brazil
| | - Ísis Venturi Biembengut
- Structural and Computational Proteomics Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ-PR, Curitiba, PR 80320-290, Brazil
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12
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Yamada T, Ishimaru M, Shoji T, Tomiyasu H, Tochinai R, Taguchi K, Komatsu T. Polyoxazoline-Conjugated l-Asparaginase: An Antibody-Production-Free Therapeutic Agent for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:5789-5797. [PMID: 38047730 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00888] [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] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
l-asparaginase (ASNase), an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of l-asparagine into l-aspartic acid, is frequently used as a medication for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, when derived from bacterial sources, this enzyme can elicit side effects, including allergic or hypersensitivity reactions, owing to immune responses. Here, we describe the synthesis of polyoxazoline-conjugated ASNase (POx-ASNase) and investigate its enzyme activity, anticancer efficacy, immunogenicity, and retention in the bloodstream. The water-soluble POx was coupled with surface lysine residues of ASNase using a bifunctional cross-linker. The average number of polymers bound to each enzyme was determined as 10. Although the enzymatic activity of POx-ASNase decreased to 56% of that of native ASNase, its temperature and pH dependencies remained unaltered. Remarkably, the lyophilized powder form of POx-ASNase retained its catalytic ability for 24 months. POx-ASNase demonstrated nearly identical anticancer efficacy compared to naked ASNase against leukemia and lymphoma cells (MOLT-4, CLBL-1, and K562) while displaying no cytotoxicity toward normal cells. Animal experiments conducted using rats revealed that the POx decoration suppressed the generation of anti-ASNase IgM and IgG antibodies with no detection of anti-POx antibodies. The half-life within the bloodstream extended to 34 h, representing a 17-fold increase compared to unmodified ASNase. These findings suggest that POx-ASNase serves as an anticancer therapeutic agent, characterized by the absence of antibody production and notably extended circulation persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiga Yamada
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Chuo University, 1-13-27 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku 112-8551, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marika Ishimaru
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Chuo University, 1-13-27 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku 112-8551, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuma Shoji
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Chuo University, 1-13-27 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku 112-8551, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Tomiyasu
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku 113-8657, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Tochinai
- Department of Veterinary Pathophysiology and Animal Health, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku 113-8657, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Taguchi
- Division of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, 1-5-30, Shibakoen, Minato-ku 105-8512, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Teruyuki Komatsu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Chuo University, 1-13-27 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku 112-8551, Tokyo, Japan
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13
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Dastmalchi M, Alizadeh M, Jamshidi-Kandjan O, Rezazadeh H, Hamzeh-Mivehroud M, Farajollahi MM, Dastmalchi S. Expression and Biological Evaluation of an Engineered Recombinant L-asparaginase Designed by In Silico Method Based on Sequence of the Enzyme from Escherichia coli. Adv Pharm Bull 2023; 13:827-836. [PMID: 38022803 PMCID: PMC10676546 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2023.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Medical usage of L-asparaginase (ASNase), the first-line of acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment, is linked to allergic responses and toxicities, which necessitates the development of new bio-better ASNases. The aim of the current study was in silico design of a novel ASNase with predicted improved enzymatic properties using strategies encompassing sequence-function analysis of known ASNase mutants. Additionally, current study aimed to show that the new enzyme is active. Methods Based on 21 experimentally reported mutations for ASNase, a virtual library of mutated enzymes with all 7546 possible combinations of up to 4 mutations was generated. Three-dimensional models of proposed mutant enzymes were built and their in silico stabilities were calculated. The most promising mutant was selected for preparing a genetic construct suitable for expression of the designed ASNase in bacterial cells. Results Computational study predicted that Y176F/S241C double mutation of Escherichia coli ASNase may increase its folding stability. The designed ASNase was expressed in two different E. coli strains (Origami B(DE3) and BL21(DE3)pLysS) and then the soluble fractions prepared from the cell lysates of the host cells were used in enzyme activity assay. Results showed that enzyme activity of soluble fraction from Origami (95.4 ± 7.5 IU/0.1 mL) was four times higher than that of soluble fraction from pLysS (25.8 ± 2.5 IU/0.1 mL). Conclusion A novel functional double mutant ASNase with predicted improved enzymatic properties was designed and produced in E. coli. The results of the current study suggest a great commercial potential for the identified enzyme in pharmaceutical and industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahrokh Dastmalchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdiyeh Alizadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Omid Jamshidi-Kandjan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hassan Rezazadeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Hamzeh-Mivehroud
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad M Farajollahi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siavoush Dastmalchi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, POBOX:99138, Nicosia, North Cyprus, Mersin 10, Turkey
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14
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Miranda J, Lefin N, Beltran JF, Belén LH, Tsipa A, Farias JG, Zamorano M. Enzyme Engineering Strategies for the Bioenhancement of L-Asparaginase Used as a Biopharmaceutical. BioDrugs 2023; 37:793-811. [PMID: 37698749 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00622-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, there has been a surge in the industrial production of recombinant enzymes from microorganisms due to their catalytic characteristics being highly efficient, selective, and biocompatible. L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) is an enzyme belonging to the class of amidohydrolases that catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine into L-aspartic acid and ammonia. It has been widely investigated as a biologic agent for its antineoplastic properties in treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The demand for L-ASNase is mainly met by the production of recombinant type II L-ASNase from Escherichia coli and Erwinia chrysanthemi. However, the presence of immunogenic proteins in L-ASNase sourced from prokaryotes has been known to result in adverse reactions in patients undergoing treatment. As a result, efforts are being made to explore strategies that can help mitigate the immunogenicity of the drug. This review gives an overview of recent biotechnological breakthroughs in enzyme engineering techniques and technologies used to improve anti-leukemic L-ASNase, taking into account the pharmacological importance of L-ASNase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javiera Miranda
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Nicolás Lefin
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Jorge F Beltran
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Lisandra Herrera Belén
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Santiago, Chile
| | - Argyro Tsipa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Jorge G Farias
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
| | - Mauricio Zamorano
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad de la Frontera, Francisco Salazar 1145, 4811230, Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile.
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15
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Shishparenok AN, Gladilina YA, Zhdanov DD. Engineering and Expression Strategies for Optimization of L-Asparaginase Development and Production. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15220. [PMID: 37894901 PMCID: PMC10607044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic engineering for heterologous expression has advanced in recent years. Model systems such as Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Pichia pastoris are often used as host microorganisms for the enzymatic production of L-asparaginase, an enzyme widely used in the clinic for the treatment of leukemia and in bakeries for the reduction of acrylamide. Newly developed recombinant L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) may have a low affinity for asparagine, reduced catalytic activity, low stability, and increased glutaminase activity or immunogenicity. Some successful commercial preparations of L-ASNase are now available. Therefore, obtaining novel L-ASNases with improved properties suitable for food or clinical applications remains a challenge. The combination of rational design and/or directed evolution and heterologous expression has been used to create enzymes with desired characteristics. Computer design, combined with other methods, could make it possible to generate mutant libraries of novel L-ASNases without costly and time-consuming efforts. In this review, we summarize the strategies and approaches for obtaining and developing L-ASNase with improved properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya N. Shishparenok
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.S.); (Y.A.G.)
| | - Yulia A. Gladilina
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.S.); (Y.A.G.)
| | - Dmitry D. Zhdanov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya St. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.S.); (Y.A.G.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University), Miklukho—Maklaya St. 6, 117198 Moscow, Russia
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16
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Tong WH, Rizzari C. Back to the future: the amazing journey of the therapeutic anti-leukemia enzyme asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi. Haematologica 2023; 108:2606-2615. [PMID: 37470157 PMCID: PMC10542841 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.282324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
For several decades, asparaginase has been considered world-wide as an essential component of combination chemotherapy for the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Discovered over 60 years ago, two main unmanipulated asparaginase products originated from primary bacteria sources, namely Escherichia coli and Erwinia chrysanthemi, have been available for clinical use. A pegylated product of the Escherichia coli asparaginase was subsequently developed and is now the main product used by several international co-operative groups. The various asparaginase products all display the same mechanism of action (hydrolysis of circulating asparagine) and are associated with similar efficacy and toxicity patterns. However, their different pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and immunological properties require distinctive modalities of application and monitoring. Erwinia chrysanthemi asparaginase was initially used as a first-line product, but subsequently became a preferred second-line product for children who experienced immunological reactions to the Escherichia coli asparaginase products. An asparaginase product displaying the same characteristics of the Erwinia chrysanthemi asparaginase has recently been produced by use of recombinant technology, thus securing a preparation available for use as an alternative, or as a back-up in case of shortages, for the non-recombinant product. The long journey of the Erwinia chrysanthemi asparaginase product as it has developed throughout the last several decades has made it possible for almost every child and adult with ALL to complete the asparaginase-based protocol treatment when an immunological reaction has occurred to any Escherichia coli asparaginase product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing H Tong
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care (PHEG), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Argos Zorggroep "DrieMaasStede", Center for Specialized Geriatric Care, Schiedam.
| | - Carmelo Rizzari
- Department of Pediatrics, Foundation IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca
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Blachier J, Cleret A, Guerin N, Gil C, Fanjat JM, Tavernier F, Vidault L, Gallix F, Rama N, Rossignol R, Piedrahita D, Andrivon A, Châlons-Cottavoz M, Aguera K, Gay F, Horand F, Laperrousaz B. L-asparaginase anti-tumor activity in pancreatic cancer is dependent on its glutaminase activity and resistance is mediated by glutamine synthetase. Exp Cell Res 2023; 426:113568. [PMID: 36967104 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
l-Asparaginase is a cornerstone of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) therapy since lymphoblasts lack asparagine synthetase (ASNS) and rely on extracellular asparagine availability for survival. Resistance mechanisms are associated with increased ASNS expression in ALL. However, the association between ASNS and l-Asparaginase efficacy in solid tumors remains unclear, thus limiting clinical development. Interestingly, l-Asparaginase also has a glutaminase co-activity that is crucial in pancreatic cancer where KRAS mutations activate glutamine metabolism. By developing l-Asparaginase-resistant pancreatic cancer cells and using OMICS approaches, we identified glutamine synthetase (GS) as a marker of resistance to l-Asparaginase. GS is the only enzyme able to synthesize glutamine, and its expression also correlates with l-Asparaginase efficacy in 27 human cell lines from 11 cancer indications. Finally, we further demonstrated that GS inhibition prevents cancer cell adaptation to l-Asparaginase-induced glutamine starvation. These findings could pave the way to the development of promising drug combinations to overcome l-Asparaginase resistance.
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18
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Sánchez-Moguel I, Costa-Silva TA, Pillaca-Pullo OS, Flores-Santos JC, Freire RKB, Carretero G, da Luz Bueno J, Camacho-Córdova DI, Santos JH, Sette LD, Pessoa-Jr A. Antarctic yeasts as a source of L-asparaginase: characterization of a glutaminase-activity free L-asparaginase from psychrotolerant yeast Leucosporidium scottii L115. Process Biochem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
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Zhou R, Liang T, Li T, Huang J, Chen C. Possible mechanism of metabolic and drug resistance with L-asparaginase therapy in childhood leukaemia. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1070069. [PMID: 36816964 PMCID: PMC9929349 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1070069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
L-asparaginase, which hydrolyzes asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia, is frequently used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. When combined with other chemotherapy drugs, the event-free survival rate is 90%. Due to immunogenicity and drug resistance, however, not all patients benefit from it, restricting the use of L-asparaginase therapy in other haematological cancers. To solve the problem of immunogenicity, several L-ASNase variants have emerged, such as Erwinia-ASNase and PEG-ASNase. However, even when Erwinia-ASNase is used as a substitute for E. coli-ASNase or PEG-ASNase, allergic reactions occur in 3%-33% of patients. All of these factors contributed to the development of novel L-ASNases. Additionally, L-ASNase resistance mechanisms, such as the methylation status of ASNS promoters and activation of autophagy, have further emphasized the importance of personalized treatment for paediatric haematological neoplasms. In this review, we discussed the metabolic effects of L-ASNase, mechanisms of drug resistance, applications in non-ALL leukaemia, and the development of novel L-ASNase.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chun Chen
- *Correspondence: Junbin Huang, ; Chun Chen,
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20
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Anticancer Asparaginases: Perspectives in Using Filamentous Fungi as Cell Factories. Catalysts 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/catal13010200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The enzyme L-asparaginase (L-asparagine amidohydrolase) catalyzes the breakdown of L-asparagine into aspartate and ammonia, which leads to an anti-neoplastic activity stemming from its capacity to deplete L-asparagine concentrations in the bloodstream, and it is therefore used in cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) to inhibit malignant cell growth. Nowadays, this anti-cancer enzyme, largely produced by Escherichia coli, is well established on the market. However, E. coli L-asparaginase therapy has side effects such as anaphylaxis, coagulation abnormality, low plasma half-life, hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, protease action, hyperglycemia, and cerebral dysfunction. This review provides a perspective on the use of filamentous fungi as alternative cell factories for L-asparaginase production. Filamentous fungi, such as various Aspergillus species, have superior protein secretion capacity compared to yeast and bacteria and studies show their potential for the future production of proteins with humanized N-linked glycans. This article explores the past and present applications of this important enzyme and discusses the prospects for using filamentous fungi to produce safe eukaryotic asparaginases with high production yields.
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Comparative structural and kinetic study for development of a novel candidate L-asparaginase based pharmaceutical. Biochem Eng J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2023.108806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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22
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Strzelczyk P, Zhang D, Wlodawer A, Lubkowski J. The E. coli L-asparaginase V27T mutant: structural and functional characterization and comparison with theoretical predictions. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:3060-3068. [PMID: 36310372 PMCID: PMC10673687 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial L-asparaginases have been used for over 40 years as anticancer drugs. Ardalan et al. (Medical Hypotheses 112, 7-17, 2018) proposed that the V27T mutant of Escherichia coli type II L-asparaginase, EcAII(V27T), should display altered biophysical and catalytic properties compared to the wild-type enzyme, EcAII(wt), rendering it more favourable as a pharmaceutical. They postulated that EcAII(V27T) would exhibit reduced glutaminolytic activity and be more stable compared to EcAII(wt). Their postulates, however, were purely theoretical. Here, we characterized experimentally selected properties of EcAII(V27T). We found asparaginolytic activity of this mutant unchanged, whereas its glutaminolytic activity was fourfold lower compared with EcAII(wt). We did not observe significant differences in stabilities of EcAII(wt) and EcAII(V27T). Crystal structures of the complexes with L-Asp and L-Glu showed considerable differences in binding modes of both substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Strzelczyk
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Di Zhang
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Alexander Wlodawer
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jacek Lubkowski
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
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23
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Safrhansova L, Hlozkova K, Starkova J. Targeting amino acid metabolism in cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 373:37-79. [PMID: 36283767 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring is a characteristic hallmark of cancer cells. This phenomenon sustains uncontrolled proliferation and resistance to apoptosis by increasing nutrients and energy supply. However, reprogramming comes together with vulnerabilities that can be used against tumor and can be applied in targeted therapy. In the last years, the genetic background of tumors has been identified thoroughly and new therapies targeting those mutations tested. Nevertheless, we propose that targeting the phenotype of cancer cells could be another way of treatment aiming to avoid drug resistance and non-responsiveness of cancer patients. Amino acid metabolism is part of the altered processes in cancer cells. Amino acids are building blocks and also sensors of signaling pathways regulating main biological processes. In this comprehensive review, we described four amino acids (asparagine, arginine, methionine, and cysteine) which have been actively investigated as potential targets for anti-tumor therapy. Asparagine depletion is successfully used for decades in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and there is a strong implication to apply it to other types of tumors. Arginine auxotrophic tumors are great candidates for arginine-starvation therapy. Higher requirement for essential amino acids such as methionine and cysteine point out promising targetable weaknesses of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Safrhansova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Hlozkova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Julia Starkova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic.
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24
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Van Trimpont M, Schalk AM, De Visser Y, Nguyen HA, Reunes L, Vandemeulebroecke K, Peeters E, Su Y, Lee H, Lorenzi PL, Chan WK, Mondelaers V, De Moerloose B, Lammens T, Goossens S, Van Vlierberghe P, Lavie A. In vivo stabilization of a less toxic asparaginase variant leads to a durable antitumor response in acute leukemia. Haematologica 2022; 108:409-419. [PMID: 35979719 PMCID: PMC9890011 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.281390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2002] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid since it can either be taken up via the diet or synthesized by asparagine synthetase. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells do not express asparagine synthetase or express it only minimally, which makes them completely dependent on extracellular asparagine for their growth and survival. This dependency makes ALL cells vulnerable to treatment with L-asparaginase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes asparagine. To date, all clinically approved L-asparaginases have significant L-glutaminase co-activity, associated with non-immune related toxic side effects observed during therapy. Therefore, reduction of L-glutaminase co-activity with concomitant maintenance of its anticancer L-asparaginase effect may effectively improve the tolerability of this unique drug. Previously, we designed a new alternative variant of Erwinia chrysanthemi (ErA; Erwinaze) with decreased L-glutaminase co-activity, while maintaining its L-asparaginase activity, by the introduction of three key mutations around the active site (ErA-TM). However, Erwinaze and our ErA-TM variant have very short half-lives in vivo. Here, we show that the fusion of ErA-TM with an albumin binding domain (ABD)-tag significantly increases its in vivo persistence. In addition, we evaluated the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of ABD-ErA-TM in a B-ALL xenograft model of SUP-B15. Our results show a comparable long-lasting durable antileukemic effect between the standard-of-care pegylated-asparaginase and ABD-ErA-TM L-asparaginase, but with fewer co-glutaminase-related acute side effects. Since the toxic side effects of current L-asparaginases often result in treatment discontinuation in ALL patients, this novel ErA-TM variant with ultra-low L-glutaminase co-activity and long in vivo persistence may have great clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Van Trimpont
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Amanda M. Schalk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yanti De Visser
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hien Anh Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lindy Reunes
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Vandemeulebroecke
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Peeters
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ying Su
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hyun Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL, USA,Biophysics Core at Research Resources Center, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Philip L. Lorenzi
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wai-Kin Chan
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Veerle Mondelaers
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim Lammens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium,Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,#PVV and AL contributed equally as co-senior authors
| | - Arnon Lavie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA; The Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
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25
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Qiu Z, Liu W, Zhu Q, Ke K, Zhu Q, Jin W, Yu S, Yang Z, Li L, Sun X, Ren S, Liu Y, Zhu Z, Zeng J, Huang X, Huang Y, Wei L, Ma M, Lu J, Chen X, Mou Y, Xie T, Sui X. The Role and Therapeutic Potential of Macropinocytosis in Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:919819. [PMID: 36046825 PMCID: PMC9421435 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.919819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Macropinocytosis, a unique endocytosis pathway characterized by nonspecific internalization, has a vital role in the uptake of extracellular substances and antigen presentation. It is known to have dual effects on cancer cells, depending on cancer type and certain microenvironmental conditions. It helps cancer cells survive in nutrient-deficient environments, enhances resistance to anticancer drugs, and promotes invasion and metastasis. Conversely, overexpression of the RAS gene alongside drug treatment can lead to methuosis, a novel mode of cell death. The survival and proliferation of cancer cells is closely related to macropinocytosis in the tumor microenvironment (TME), but identifying how these cells interface with the TME is crucial for creating drugs that can limit cancer progression and metastasis. Substantial progress has been made in recent years on designing anticancer therapies that utilize the effects of macropinocytosis. Both the induction and inhibition of macropinocytosis are useful strategies for combating cancer cells. This article systematically reviews the general mechanisms of macropinocytosis, its specific functions in tumor cells, its occurrence in nontumor cells in the TME, and its application in tumor therapies. The aim is to elucidate the role and therapeutic potential of macropinocytosis in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zejing Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wencheng Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qianru Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Ke
- Department of Gastrointestinal-Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qicong Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal-Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Jin
- Department of Gastrointestinal-Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuxian Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zuyi Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaochen Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuyi Ren
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanfen Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangping Zeng
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lu Wei
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengmeng Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyang Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiping Mou
- Department of Gastrointestinal-Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yiping Mou, ; Tian Xie, ; Xinbing Sui,
| | - Tian Xie
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yiping Mou, ; Tian Xie, ; Xinbing Sui,
| | - Xinbing Sui
- Department of Medical Oncology and School of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yiping Mou, ; Tian Xie, ; Xinbing Sui,
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26
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Grima-Reyes M, Vandenberghe A, Nemazanyy I, Meola P, Paul R, Reverso-Meinietti J, Martinez-Turtos A, Nottet N, Chan WK, Lorenzi PL, Marchetti S, Ricci JE, Chiche J. Tumoral microenvironment prevents de novo asparagine biosynthesis in B cell lymphoma, regardless of ASNS expression. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn6491. [PMID: 35857457 PMCID: PMC9258813 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn6491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Depletion of circulating asparagine with l-asparaginase (ASNase) is a mainstay of leukemia treatment and is under investigation in many cancers. Expression levels of asparagine synthetase (ASNS), which catalyzes asparagine synthesis, were considered predictive of cancer cell sensitivity to ASNase treatment, a notion recently challenged. Using [U-13C5]-l-glutamine in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model of B cell lymphomas (BCLs), we demonstrated that supraphysiological or physiological concentrations of asparagine prevent de novo asparagine biosynthesis, regardless of ASNS expression levels. Overexpressing ASNS in ASNase-sensitive BCL was insufficient to confer resistance to ASNase treatment in vivo. Moreover, we showed that ASNase's glutaminase activity enables its maximal anticancer effect. Together, our results indicate that baseline ASNS expression (low or high) cannot dictate BCL dependence on de novo asparagine biosynthesis and predict BCL sensitivity to dual ASNase activity. Thus, except for ASNS-deficient cancer cells, ASNase's glutaminase activity should be considered in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Grima-Reyes
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Ashaina Vandenberghe
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Ivan Nemazanyy
- Plateforme d’étude du métabolisme SFR-Necker, Inserm US 24–CNRS UAR, 3633 Paris, France
| | - Pauline Meola
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Rachel Paul
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Julie Reverso-Meinietti
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Adriana Martinez-Turtos
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | | | - Wai-Kin Chan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Philip L. Lorenzi
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sandrine Marchetti
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Jean-Ehrland Ricci
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
| | - Johanna Chiche
- Université Côte d’Azur, Inserm, C3M, Nice, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Nice, France
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27
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Biochemical and Biological Evaluation of an L-Asparaginase from Isolated Escherichia coli MF-107 as an Anti-Tumor Enzyme on MCF7 Cell Line. IRANIAN BIOMEDICAL JOURNAL 2022; 26:279-90. [PMID: 35690915 PMCID: PMC9432472 DOI: 10.52547/ibj.3494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Methods: Results: Conclusion:
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28
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Feenstra LR, Gehring R, van Geijswijk IM, König T, Prinsen HCMT, Vandemeulebroecke K, Lammens T, Krupa A, Teske E. Evaluation of PEG-L-asparaginase in asparagine suppression and anti-drug antibody development in healthy Beagle dogs: A multi-phase preclinical study. Vet J 2022; 286:105854. [PMID: 35781075 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
L-asparaginase is a frequently used drug in the treatment of canine malignant lymphoma. Since production and availability of native E. coli-derived L-asparaginase are limited, PEG-L-asparaginase (PEG-ASP) is an alternative. However, recommended doses and dosing intervals are mainly empirically determined. A multi-phase clinical dose-finding study with seven healthy Beagle dogs was conducted to find the minimum effective dose and, potentially, a dosing interval for PEG-ASP in dogs. Plasma concentrations of amino acids and PEG-ASP activity were measured at various time points after administration of different doses of PEG-ASP. Anti-PEG and anti-asparaginase antibody titres were measured. Administration of 10 IU/kg PEG-ASP resulted in asparagine depletion in all dogs, albeit for various durations: for 9 days in all dogs, 15 days in five dogs, 21 days in three dogs and 29 days in one dog. Asparagine suppression occurred at PEG-ASP plasma concentrations < 25 IU/L. Subsequent administrations of a second and third dose of 20 IU/kg and 40 IU/kg PEG-ASP resulted in asparagine suppression at < 9 days in five dogs, accompanied by the development of antibodies against PEG and L-asparaginase. Two dogs with prolonged asparagine suppression after the second and third administration did not develop antibodies. Marked individual variation in the mechanism and duration of response to PEG-ASP was noted. Antibody formation against PEG-ASP was frequently observed and sometimes occurred after one injection. This study suggests that PEG-ASP doses as high as the currently used dose of 40 IU/kg might not be needed in treatment of canine malignant lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R Feenstra
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - R Gehring
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Division of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - I M van Geijswijk
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Division of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - T König
- Diagnostics Development Department, medac GmbH, Wedel, Germany
| | - H C M T Prinsen
- Department of Genetics, section Metabolic Diagnostics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - K Vandemeulebroecke
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - T Lammens
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Krupa
- AniCura Veterinary Hospital Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, Terneuzen, the Netherlands
| | - E Teske
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
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29
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Chakravarty N, Sharma M, Kumar P, Singh RP. Biochemical and molecular insights on the bioactivity and binding interactions of Bacillus australimaris NJB19 L-asparaginase. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 215:1-11. [PMID: 35718140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.06.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
L-asparaginase, an antileukemic enzyme, is indispensable to the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). However, the intrinsic glutaminase activity entails various side effects to the patients; thus, an improved version of the enzyme lacking glutaminase activity would be a requisite for effective treatment management of ALL. The present study highlights the biochemical and molecular characteristics of the recombinant glutaminase-free L-asparaginase from Bacillus australimaris NJB19 (BaAsp). Investigation of the active site architecture of the protein unraveled the binding interactions of BaAsp with its substrate. Comparative analysis of the L-asparaginase sequences revealed few substitutions of key amino acids in the BaAsp that could construe its substrate selectivity and specificity. The purified heterologously expressed protein (42 kDa) displayed maximum L-asparaginase activity at 35-40 °C and pH 8.5-9, with no observed L-glutaminase activity. The kinetic parameters, Km and Vmax, were determined as 45.6 μM and 0.16 μmoles min-1, respectively. Furthermore, in silico analysis revealed a conserved zinc-binding site in the protein, which is generally implicated in inhibiting the L-asparaginase activity. However, BaAsp was not inhibited by zinc at 1 mM concentration. Therefore, the findings provide insights on the biochemical and molecular details of BaAsp, which could be valuable in formulating it for alternate antileukemic drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Chakravarty
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Monica Sharma
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Pravindra Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - R P Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India.
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30
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Advances on Delivery of Cytotoxic Enzymes as Anticancer Agents. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27123836. [PMID: 35744957 PMCID: PMC9230553 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27123836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most serious human diseases, causing millions of deaths worldwide annually, and, therefore, it is one of the most investigated research disciplines. Developing efficient anticancer tools includes studying the effects of different natural enzymes of plant and microbial origin on tumor cells. The development of various smart delivery systems based on enzyme drugs has been conducted for more than two decades. Some of these delivery systems have been developed to the point that they have reached clinical stages, and a few have even found application in selected cancer treatments. Various biological, chemical, and physical approaches have been utilized to enhance their efficiencies by improving their delivery and targeting. In this paper, we review advanced delivery systems for enzyme drugs for use in cancer therapy. Their structure-based functions, mechanisms of action, fused forms with other peptides in terms of targeting and penetration, and other main results from in vivo and clinical studies of these advanced delivery systems are highlighted.
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31
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Pokrovskaya MV, Pokrovsky VS, Aleksandrova SS, Sokolov NN, Zhdanov DD. Molecular Analysis of L-Asparaginases for Clarification of the Mechanism of Action and Optimization of Pharmacological Functions. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030599. [PMID: 35335974 PMCID: PMC8948990 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
L-asparaginases (EC 3.5.1.1) are a family of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of L-asparagine to L-aspartic acid and ammonia. These proteins with different biochemical, physicochemical and pharmacological properties are found in many organisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, plants and mammals. To date, asparaginases from E. coli and Dickeya dadantii (formerly known as Erwinia chrysanthemi) are widely used in hematology for the treatment of lymphoblastic leukemias. However, their medical use is limited by side effects associated with the ability of these enzymes to hydrolyze L-glutamine, as well as the development of immune reactions. To solve these issues, gene-editing methods to introduce amino-acid substitutions of the enzyme are implemented. In this review, we focused on molecular analysis of the mechanism of enzyme action and to optimize the antitumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina V. Pokrovskaya
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.P.); (S.S.A.); (N.N.S.)
| | - Vadim S. Pokrovsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 6, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Laboratory of Combined Treatment, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Kashirskoe Shosse 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia
- Center of Genetics and Life Sciences, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Federal Territory Sirius, Olimpiisky Prospect 1, 354340 Sochi, Russia
| | - Svetlana S. Aleksandrova
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.P.); (S.S.A.); (N.N.S.)
| | - Nikolay N. Sokolov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.P.); (S.S.A.); (N.N.S.)
| | - Dmitry D. Zhdanov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Pogodinskaya Str. 10/8, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.V.P.); (S.S.A.); (N.N.S.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 6, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
- Correspondence:
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32
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Fan K, Liu Z, Gao M, Tu K, Xu Q, Zhang Y. Targeting Nutrient Dependency in Cancer Treatment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:820173. [PMID: 35178349 PMCID: PMC8846368 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.820173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is one of the hallmarks of tumor. Growing evidence suggests metabolic changes that support oncogenic progression may cause selective vulnerabilities that can be exploited for cancer treatment. Increasing demands for certain nutrients under genetic determination or environmental challenge enhance dependency of tumor cells on specific nutrient, which could be therapeutically developed through targeting such nutrient dependency. Various nutrients including several amino acids and glucose have been found to induce dependency in genetic alteration- or context-dependent manners. In this review, we discuss the extensively studied nutrient dependency and the biological mechanisms behind such vulnerabilities. Besides, existing applications and strategies to target nutrient dependency in different cancer types, accompanied with remaining challenges to further exploit these metabolic vulnerabilities to improve cancer therapies, are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Fan
- The Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhan Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Second Medical College, Karamay, China
| | - Min Gao
- The Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Kangsheng Tu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiuran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.,Research Center of Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yilei Zhang
- The Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
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Van Trimpont M, Peeters E, De Visser Y, Schalk AM, Mondelaers V, De Moerloose B, Lavie A, Lammens T, Goossens S, Van Vlierberghe P. Novel Insights on the Use of L-Asparaginase as an Efficient and Safe Anti-Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040902. [PMID: 35205650 PMCID: PMC8870365 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) therapy is key for achieving the very high cure rate of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), yet its use is mostly confined to this indication. One main reason preventing the expansion of today’s FDA-approved L-ASNases to solid cancers is their high toxicity and side effects, which become especially challenging in adult patients. The design of optimized L-ASNase molecules provides opportunities to overcome these unwanted toxicities. An additional challenge to broader application of L-ASNases is how cells can counter the pharmacological effect of this drug and the identification of L-ASNases resistance mechanisms. In this review, we discuss recent insights into L-ASNase adverse effects, resistance mechanisms, and how novel L-ASNase variants and drug combinations can expand its clinical applicability, with a focus on both hematological and solid tumors. Abstract L-Asparaginase (L-ASNase) is an enzyme that hydrolyses the amino acid asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia. Systemic administration of bacterial L-ASNase is successfully used to lower the bioavailability of this non-essential amino acid and to eradicate rapidly proliferating cancer cells with a high demand for exogenous asparagine. Currently, it is a cornerstone drug in the treatment of the most common pediatric cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Since these lymphoblasts lack the expression of asparagine synthetase (ASNS), these cells depend on the uptake of extracellular asparagine for survival. Interestingly, recent reports have illustrated that L-ASNase may also have clinical potential for the treatment of other aggressive subtypes of hematological or solid cancers. However, immunogenic and other severe adverse side effects limit optimal clinical use and often lead to treatment discontinuation. The design of optimized and novel L-ASNase formulations provides opportunities to overcome these limitations. In addition, identification of multiple L-ASNase resistance mechanisms, including ASNS promoter reactivation and desensitization, has fueled research into promising novel drug combinations to overcome chemoresistance. In this review, we discuss recent insights into L-ASNase adverse effects, resistance both in hematological and solid tumors, and how novel L-ASNase variants and drug combinations can expand its clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Van Trimpont
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Peeters
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yanti De Visser
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amanda M. Schalk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60607, USA; (A.M.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Veerle Mondelaers
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arnon Lavie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60607, USA; (A.M.S.); (A.L.)
- The Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Tim Lammens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.V.T.); (E.P.); (Y.D.V.); (B.D.M.); (T.L.); (S.G.)
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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Sindhu R, Manonmani HK. L-asparaginase mediated therapy in L-asparagine auxotrophic cancers: A review. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2022; 22:2393-2410. [PMID: 34994334 DOI: 10.2174/1871520622666220106103336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Microbial L-asparaginase is the most effective first-line therapeutic used in the treatment protocols of paediatric and adult leukemia. Leukemic cell's auxotrophy for L-asparagine is exploited as a therapeutic strategy to mediate cell death through metabolic blockade of L-asparagine using L-asparaginase. Escherichia coli and Erwinia chrysanthemi serve as the major enzyme deriving sources accepted in clinical practise and the enzyme has bestowed improvements in patient outcomes over the last 40 years. However, an array of side effects generated by the native enzymes due to glutamine co-catalysis and short serum stays augmenting frequent dosages, intended a therapeutic switch towards the development of biobetter alternatives for the enzyme including the formulations resulting in sustained local depletion of L-asparagine. In addition, the treatment with L-asparaginase in few cancer types has proven to elicit drug-induced cytoprotective autophagy mechanisms and therefore warrants concern. Although the off-target glutamine hydrolysis has been viewed in contributing the drug-induced secondary responses in cells deficient with asparagine synthetase machinery, the beneficial role of glutaminase-asparaginase in proliferative regulation of asparagine prototrophic cells has been looked forward. The current review provides an overview on the enzyme's clinical applications in leukemia and possible therapeutic implications in other solid tumours, recent advancements in drug formulations, and discusses the aspects of two-sided roles of glutaminase-asparaginases and drug-induced cytoprotective autophagy mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sindhu R
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, JSS-AHER, Mysuru-570015, Karnataka, India
| | - H K Manonmani
- Food Protectants and Infestation Control Department, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru-570020, Karnataka, India
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Dumina M, Zhgun A, Pokrovskaya M, Aleksandrova S, Zhdanov D, Sokolov N, El’darov M. Highly Active Thermophilic L-Asparaginase from Melioribacter roseus Represents a Novel Large Group of Type II Bacterial L-Asparaginases from Chlorobi-Ignavibacteriae-Bacteroidetes Clade. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13632. [PMID: 34948436 PMCID: PMC8709496 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) is a biotechnologically relevant enzyme for the pharmaceutical, biosensor and food industries. Efforts to discover new promising L-ASNases for different fields of biotechnology have turned this group of enzymes into a growing family with amazing diversity. Here, we report that thermophile Melioribacter roseus from Ignavibacteriae of the Bacteroidetes/Chlorobi group possesses two L-ASNases-bacterial type II (MrAII) and plant-type (MrAIII). The current study is focused on a novel L-ASNase MrAII that was expressed in Escherichia coli, purified and characterized. The enzyme is optimally active at 70 °C and pH 9.3, with a high L-asparaginase activity of 1530 U/mg and L-glutaminase activity ~19% of the activity compared with L-asparagine. The kinetic parameters KM and Vmax for the enzyme were 1.4 mM and 5573 µM/min, respectively. The change in MrAII activity was not significant in the presence of 10 mM Ni2+, Mg2+ or EDTA, but increased with the addition of Cu2+ and Ca2+ by 56% and 77%, respectively, and was completely inhibited by Zn2+, Fe3+ or urea solutions 2-8 M. MrAII displays differential cytotoxic activity: cancer cell lines K562, Jurkat, LnCap, and SCOV-3 were more sensitive to MrAII treatment, compared with normal cells. MrAII represents the first described enzyme of a large group of uncharacterized counterparts from the Chlorobi-Ignavibacteriae-Bacteroidetes clade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dumina
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexander Zhgun
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Marina Pokrovskaya
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Svetlana Aleksandrova
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Dmitry Zhdanov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolay Sokolov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Michael El’darov
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
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Chiu M, Taurino G, Dander E, Bardelli D, Fallati A, Andreoli R, Bianchi MG, Carubbi C, Pozzi G, Galuppo L, Mirandola P, Rizzari C, Tardito S, Biondi A, D’Amico G, Bussolati O. ALL blasts drive primary mesenchymal stromal cells to increase asparagine availability during asparaginase treatment. Blood Adv 2021; 5:5164-5178. [PMID: 34614505 PMCID: PMC9153005 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020004041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms underlying the resistance of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) blasts to l-asparaginase are still incompletely known. Here we demonstrate that human primary bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) successfully adapt to l-asparaginase and markedly protect leukemic blasts from the enzyme-dependent cytotoxicity through an amino acid trade-off. ALL blasts synthesize and secrete glutamine, thus increasing extracellular glutamine availability for stromal cells. In turn, MSCs use glutamine, either synthesized through glutamine synthetase (GS) or imported, to produce asparagine, which is then extruded to sustain asparagine-auxotroph leukemic cells. GS inhibition prevents mesenchymal cells adaptation to l-asparaginase, lowers glutamine secretion by ALL blasts, and markedly hinders the protection exerted by MSCs on leukemic cells. The pro-survival amino acid exchange is hindered by the inhibition or silencing of the asparagine efflux transporter SNAT5, which is induced in mesenchymal cells by ALL blasts. Consistently, primary MSCs from ALL patients express higher levels of SNAT5 (P < .05), secrete more asparagine (P < .05), and protect leukemic blasts (P < .05) better than MSCs isolated from healthy donors. In conclusion, ALL blasts arrange a pro-leukemic amino acid trade-off with bone marrow mesenchymal cells, which depends on GS and SNAT5 and promotes leukemic cell survival during l-asparaginase treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Chiu
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Taurino
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Erica Dander
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Pediatric Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Donatella Bardelli
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Pediatric Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fallati
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Pediatric Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Roberta Andreoli
- Laboratory of Industrial Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Massimiliano G. Bianchi
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Cecilia Carubbi
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giulia Pozzi
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Galuppo
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Prisco Mirandola
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carmelo Rizzari
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, MBBM Foundation, ASST Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Saverio Tardito
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom; and
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, MBBM Foundation, ASST Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Giovanna D’Amico
- Centro Ricerca Tettamanti, Pediatric Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Ovidio Bussolati
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Hanada K, Kawada K, Nishikawa G, Toda K, Maekawa H, Nishikawa Y, Masui H, Hirata W, Okamoto M, Kiyasu Y, Honma S, Ogawa R, Mizuno R, Itatani Y, Miyoshi H, Sasazuki T, Shirasawa S, Taketo MM, Obama K, Sakai Y. Dual blockade of macropinocytosis and asparagine bioavailability shows synergistic anti-tumor effects on KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer. Cancer Lett 2021; 522:129-141. [PMID: 34543685 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mutations of KRAS gene are found in various types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite intense efforts, no pharmacological approaches are expected to be effective against KRAS-mutant cancers. Macropinocytosis is an evolutionarily conserved actin-dependent endocytic process that internalizes extracellular fluids into large vesicles called macropinosomes. Recent studies have revealed macropinocytosis's important role in metabolic adaptation to nutrient stress in cancer cells harboring KRAS mutations. Here we showed that KRAS-mutant CRC cells enhanced macropinocytosis for tumor growth under nutrient-depleted conditions. We also demonstrated that activation of Rac1 and phosphoinositide 3-kinase were involved in macropinocytosis of KRAS-mutant CRC cells. Furthermore, we found that macropinocytosis was closely correlated with asparagine metabolism. In KRAS-mutant CRC cells engineered with knockdown of asparagine synthetase, macropinocytosis was accelerated under glutamine-depleted condition, and albumin addition could restore the glutamine depletion-induced growth suppression by recovering the intracellular asparagine level. Finally, we discovered that the combination of macropinocytosis inhibition and asparagine depletion dramatically suppressed the tumor growth of KRAS-mutant CRC cells in vivo. These results indicate that dual blockade of macropinocytosis and asparagine bioavailability could be a novel therapeutic strategy for KRAS-mutant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Hanada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenji Kawada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Gen Nishikawa
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kosuke Toda
- Department of Surgery, Otsu City Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hisatsugu Maekawa
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuyo Nishikawa
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Masui
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Wataru Hirata
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Michio Okamoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kiyasu
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shusaku Honma
- Department of Surgery, Kobe City Medical Center West Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Ogawa
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Rei Mizuno
- Department of Surgery, Uji Tokushukai Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Itatani
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Miyoshi
- Institute for Advancement of Clinical and Translational Science (iACT), Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Senji Shirasawa
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - M Mark Taketo
- Institute for Advancement of Clinical and Translational Science (iACT), Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Obama
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Sakai
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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Saeed H, Elsawy E, Shalaby M, Abdel-Fattah M, Hemida A, Eldoksh A, Ataya FS, Nematalla H, Elkewedi M, Labrou NN, El-Nikhely N. L-asparaginase from Dickeya chrysanthemi: expression, purification and cytotoxicity assessment. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2021; 52:668-680. [PMID: 34612174 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2021.1983831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Microbial L-asparaginases are aminohydrolases that hydrolyze L-asparagine to L-aspartate. They are used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphomas and in food industries. Increasing demand for L-ASNases is therefore needed. In the current study, the recombinant L-ASNase from Dickeya chrysanthemi (DcL-ASNase) was cloned into pET28a (+) expression vector and expressed in Escherichia coli as a 6His-tagged fusion protein and purified using Ni2+ chelated Sepharose chromatography resin, yielding a highly purified enzyme. Kinetics analysis allowed the determination of its substrate specificity and the physicochemical parameters that affect enzyme activity. The enzyme showed operational stability at 37 °C and 45 °C. The immunogenicity of the purified DcL-ASNase was evaluated by measuring the IgG and IgM levels in rats after injection. The cytotoxicity DcL-ASNase in selected cancer cell lines and peripheral blood monocytes was determined. The results showed that the enzyme induces pleiotropic effects, including significant morphological changes and the formation of apoptotic bodies. No cytotoxic effects were observed in peripheral blood monocytes at the same concentrations. In addition, gene expression analysis by RT-PCR of apoptotic biomarkers (Bax, survivin, and Ki-67) allowed the study of the apoptotic mechanism induced by DcL-ASNase on THP-1 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Saeed
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman Elsawy
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Manal Shalaby
- City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, New Borg El-Arab, Egypt
| | - Manal Abdel-Fattah
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Hemida
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmad Eldoksh
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Farid Shokry Ataya
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham Nematalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elkewedi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Nikolaos N Labrou
- Department of Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nefertiti El-Nikhely
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Revealing Escherichia coli type II L-asparaginase active site flexible loop in its open, ligand-free conformation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18885. [PMID: 34556749 PMCID: PMC8460627 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98455-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 1993, when the structure of Escherichia coli type II L-asparaginase (EcAII) in complex with L-aspartate was firstly reported, many structures of the wild type and mutated enzyme have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank. None of them report the full structure of the monomer in its ligand-free, open conformation, mainly because of the high dynamic and flexibility of the active site flexible loop. Here we report for the first time the structure of EcAII wild type in its open conformation comprising, for at least one protomer, clear electron density for the active site flexible loop (PDB ID: 6YZI). The structural element is highly mobile and it is transposed onto the rigid part of the active site upon substrate binding to allow completion of the enzyme catalytic center, thanks to key residues that serve as hinges and anchoring points. In the substrate binding pocket, several highly conserved water molecules are coordinated by residues involved in substrate binding, comprising two water molecules very likely involved in the enzyme catalytic process. We also describe, by molecular dynamics simulations, how the transposition of the loop, besides providing the proximity of residues needed for catalysis, causes a general stabilization of the protein.
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Wilder CS, Chen Z, DiGiovanni J. Pharmacologic approaches to amino acid depletion for cancer therapy. Mol Carcinog 2021; 61:127-152. [PMID: 34534385 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to support increased demands in bioenergetics and biosynthesis and to maintain reactive oxygen species at optimum levels. As metabolic alterations are broadly observed across many cancer types, metabolic reprogramming is considered a hallmark of cancer. A metabolic alteration commonly seen in cancer cells is an increased demand for certain amino acids. Amino acids are involved in a wide range of cellular functions, including proliferation, redox balance, bioenergetic and biosynthesis support, and homeostatic functions. Thus, targeting amino acid dependency in cancer is an attractive strategy for a number of cancers. In particular, pharmacologically mediated amino acid depletion has been evaluated as a cancer treatment option for several cancers. Amino acids that have been investigated for the feasibility of drug-induced depletion in preclinical and clinical studies for cancer treatment include arginine, asparagine, cysteine, glutamine, lysine, and methionine. In this review, we will summarize the status of current research on pharmacologically mediated amino acid depletion as a strategy for cancer treatment and potential chemotherapeutic combinations that synergize with amino acid depletion to further inhibit tumor growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly S Wilder
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Zhao Chen
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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41
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Dumina M, Zhgun A, Pokrovskaya M, Aleksandrova S, Zhdanov D, Sokolov N, El’darov M. A Novel L-Asparaginase from Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Thermococcus sibiricus: Heterologous Expression and Characterization for Biotechnology Application. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9894. [PMID: 34576056 PMCID: PMC8470970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) is a vital enzyme with a broad range of applications in medicine and food industry. Drawbacks of current commercial L-ASNases stimulate the search for better-producing sources of the enzyme, and extremophiles are especially attractive in this view. In this study, a novel L-asparaginase originating from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus sibiricus (TsA) was expressed in Escherichia coli, purified and characterized. The enzyme is optimally active at 90 °C and pH 9.0 with a specific activity of 2164 U/mg towards L-asparagine. Kinetic parameters KM and Vmax for the enzyme are 2.8 mM and 1200 µM/min, respectively. TsA is stable in urea solutions 0-6 M and displays no significant changes of the activity in the presence of metal ions Ni2+, Cu2+, Mg2+, Zn2+ and Ca2+ and EDTA added in concentrations 1 and 10 mmol/L except for Fe3+. The enzyme retains 86% of its initial activity after 20 min incubation at 90 °C, which should be enough to reduce acrylamide formation in foods processed at elevated temperatures. TsA displays strong cytotoxic activity toward cancer cell lines K562, A549 and Sk-Br-3, while normal human fibroblasts WI-38 are almost unsensitive to it. The enzyme seems to be a promising candidate for further investigation and biotechnology application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dumina
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexander Zhgun
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Marina Pokrovskaya
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Svetlana Aleksandrova
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Dmitry Zhdanov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolay Sokolov
- Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (M.P.); (S.A.); (D.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Michael El’darov
- Group of Fungal Genetic Engineering, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 117312 Moscow, Russia;
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Modi T, Gervais D. Improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of a novel PEGylated native Erwinia chrysanthemi L-Asparaginase. Invest New Drugs 2021; 40:21-29. [PMID: 34468906 PMCID: PMC8763762 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-021-01173-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. Erwinase® (native Erwinia chrysanthemi L-Asparaginase (nErA)) is an approved second-line treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in children and adolescents, who develop hypersensitivity or neutralising antibodies to E.coli derived L-Asparaginases (ASNases). However, nErA has a short in vivo half-life requiring frequent dosing schedules in patients. In this study, nErA was covalently conjugated to PEG molecules with the aim of extending its half-life in vivo. Methods. Firstly, efficacy of this novel product PEG-nErA was investigated on human ALL cell lines (Jurkat, CCRF-CEM and CCRF-HSB2), in vitro. Secondly, its pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) characteristics were determined, in vivo (12 rats in each group). Results. It was found that the specific activity (U/mg of enzyme) and the kinetic constant (KM) of nErA remained unaltered post PEGylation. PEG-nErA was shown to have similar cytotoxicity to nErA (IC50: 0.06–0.17 U/mL) on human ALL cell lines, in vitro. Further, when compared to nErA, PEG-nErA showed a significantly improved half-life in vivo, which meant that L-Asparagine (Asn) levels in plasma remained depleted for up to 25 days with a four-fold lower dose (100 U/kg) compared with 72 h for nErA at 400 U/kg dose. Conclusion. Overall, this next generation product PEG-nErA (with improved PK and PD characteristics compared to nErA) would bring a significant advantage to the therapeutic needs of ALL patients and should be further explored in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapasvi Modi
- Porton Biopharma Limited, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JG, UK.
| | - David Gervais
- Porton Biopharma Limited, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JG, UK
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43
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Wang Y, Xu W, Wu H, Zhang W, Guang C, Mu W. Microbial production, molecular modification, and practical application of l-Asparaginase: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 186:975-983. [PMID: 34293360 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.07.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
L-Asparaginase (L-ASNase, EC 3.5.1.1), an antitumor drug for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) therapy, is widely used in the clinical field. Similarly, L-ASNase is also a powerful and significant biological tool in the food industry to inhibit acrylamide (AA) formation. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest achievements and improvements in the production, modification, and application of microbial L-ASNase. To date, the expression levels and optimization of expression hosts such as Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pichia pastoris, have made significant progress. In addition, examples of successful modification of L-ASNase such as decreasing glutaminase activity, increasing the in vivo stability, and enhancing thermostability have been presented. Impressively, the application of L-ASNase as a food addition aid, as well as its commercialization in the pharmaceutical field, and cutting-edge biosensor application developments have been summarized. The presented results and proposed ideas could be a good guide for other L-ASNase researchers in both scientific and practical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Wei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Cuie Guang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Wanmeng Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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44
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Dai B, Augustine JJ, Kang Y, Roife D, Li X, Deng J, Tan L, Rusling LA, Weinstein JN, Lorenzi PL, Kim MP, Fleming JB. Compound NSC84167 selectively targets NRF2-activated pancreatic cancer by inhibiting asparagine synthesis pathway. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:693. [PMID: 34247201 PMCID: PMC8272721 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03970-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is aberrantly activated in about 93% of pancreatic cancers. Activated NRF2 regulates multiple downstream molecules involved in cancer cell metabolic reprogramming, translational control, and treatment resistance; however, targeting NRF2 for pancreatic cancer therapy remains largely unexplored. In this study, we used the online computational tool CellMinerTM to explore the NCI-60 drug databases for compounds with anticancer activities correlating most closely with the mRNA expression of NQO1, a marker for NRF2 pathway activity. Among the >100,000 compounds analyzed, NSC84167, termed herein as NRF2 synthetic lethality compound-01 (NSLC01), was one of the top hits (r = 0.71, P < 0.001) and selected for functional characterization. NSLC01 selectively inhibited the viabilities of four out of seven conventional pancreatic cancer cell lines and induced dramatic apoptosis in the cells with high NRF2 activation. The selective anticancer activity of NSLC01 was further validated with a panel of nine low-passage pancreatic patient-derived cell lines, and a significant reverse correlation between log(IC50) of NSLC01 and NQO1 expression was confirmed (r = -0.5563, P = 0.024). Notably, screening of a panel of nine patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) revealed six PDXs with high NQO1/NRF2 activation, and NSLC01 dramatically inhibited the viabilities and induced apoptosis in ex vivo cultures of PDX tumors. Consistent with the ex vivo results, NSLC01 inhibited the tumor growth of two NRF2-activated PDX models in vivo (P < 0.01, n = 7-8) but had no effects on the NRF2-low counterpart. To characterize the mechanism of action, we employed a metabolomic isotope tracer assay that demonstrated that NSLC01-mediated inhibition of de novo synthesis of multiple amino acids, including asparagine and methionine. Importantly, we further found that NSLC01 suppresses the eEF2K/eEF2 translation elongation cascade and protein translation of asparagine synthetase. In summary, this study identified a novel compound that selectively targets protein translation and induces synthetic lethal effects in NRF2-activated pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingbing Dai
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jithesh J Augustine
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ya'an Kang
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - David Roife
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Xinqun Li
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jenying Deng
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Lin Tan
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Leona A Rusling
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - John N Weinstein
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Philip L Lorenzi
- Departments of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael P Kim
- Departments of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jason B Fleming
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
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45
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Bhingarkar A, Vangapandu HV, Rathod S, Hoshitsuki K, Fernandez CA. Amino Acid Metabolic Vulnerabilities in Acute and Chronic Myeloid Leukemias. Front Oncol 2021; 11:694526. [PMID: 34277440 PMCID: PMC8281237 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.694526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Amino acid (AA) metabolism plays an important role in many cellular processes including energy production, immune function, and purine and pyrimidine synthesis. Cancer cells therefore require increased AA uptake and undergo metabolic reprogramming to satisfy the energy demand associated with their rapid proliferation. Like many other cancers, myeloid leukemias are vulnerable to specific therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic dependencies. Herein, our review provides a comprehensive overview and TCGA data analysis of biosynthetic enzymes required for non-essential AA synthesis and their dysregulation in myeloid leukemias. Furthermore, we discuss the role of the general control nonderepressible 2 (GCN2) and-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways of AA sensing on metabolic vulnerability and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aboli Bhingarkar
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Hima V. Vangapandu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sanjay Rathod
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Keito Hoshitsuki
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christian A. Fernandez
- Center for Pharmacogenetics and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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46
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Lubkowski J, Wlodawer A. Structural and biochemical properties of L-asparaginase. FEBS J 2021; 288:4183-4209. [PMID: 34060231 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
l-Asparaginase (a hydrolase converting l-asparagine to l-aspartic acid) was the first enzyme to be used in clinical practice as an anticancer agent after its approval in 1978 as a component of a treatment protocol for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Structural and biochemical properties of l-asparaginases have been extensively investigated during the last half-century, providing an accurate structural description of the enzyme isolated from a variety of sources, as well as clarifying the mechanism of its activity. This review provides a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge of primarily structural, but also selected biochemical properties of 'bacterial-type' l-asparaginases from different organisms. The most extensively studied members of this enzyme family are l-asparaginases highly homologous to one of the two enzymes from Escherichia coli (usually referred to as EcAI and EcAII). Members of this enzyme family, although often called bacterial-type l-asparaginases, have been also identified in such divergent organisms as archaea or eukarya. Over 100 structural models of l-asparaginases have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank during the last 30 years. One of the prime achievements of structure-centered approaches was the elucidation of the details of the mechanism of enzymatic action of this unique hydrolase that utilizes a side chain of threonine as the primary nucleophile. The molecular basis of other important properties of these enzymes, such as their substrate specificity, is still being evaluated. Results of structural and mechanistic studies of l-asparaginases are being utilized in efforts to improve the clinical properties of this important anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Lubkowski
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Alexander Wlodawer
- Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
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47
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Jiang J, Batra S, Zhang J. Asparagine: A Metabolite to Be Targeted in Cancers. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11060402. [PMID: 34205460 PMCID: PMC8234323 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11060402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Amino acids play central roles in cancer progression beyond their function as building blocks for protein synthesis. Thus, targeting amino acid acquisition and utilization has been proved to be therapeutically beneficial in various pre-clinical models. In this regard, depletion of circulating asparagine, a nonessential amino acid, by L-asparaginase has been used in treating pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) for decades. Of interest, unlike most solid tumor cells, ALL cells lack the ability to synthesize their own asparagine de novo effectively. However, only until recently, growing evidence suggests that solid tumor cells strive to acquire adequate amounts of asparagine to support tumor progression. This process is subjected to the regulation at various levels, including oncogenic signal, tumor-niche interaction, intratumor heterogeneity and dietary accessibility. We will review the literature on L-asparaginase-based therapy as well as recent understanding of asparagine metabolism in solid tumor progression, with the hope of shedding light into a broader cancer therapeutic strategy by perturbing its acquisition and utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Jiang
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Sandeep Batra
- Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health; Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (J.Z.)
| | - Ji Zhang
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University; Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (J.Z.)
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48
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Circumventing the side effects of L-asparaginase. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111616. [PMID: 33932739 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
L-asparaginase is an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of asparagine and successfully used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. L-asparaginase toxicity is either related to hypersensitivity to the foreign protein or to a secondary L-glutaminase activity that causes inhibition of protein synthesis. PEGylated versions have been incorporated into the treatment protocols to reduce immunogenicity and an alternative L-asparaginase derived from Dickeya chrysanthemi is used in patients with anaphylactic reactions to the E. coli L-asparaginase. Alternative approaches commonly explore new sources of the enzyme as well as the use of protein engineering techniques to create less immunogenic, more stable variants with lower L-glutaminase activity. This article reviews the main strategies used to overcome L-asparaginase shortcomings and introduces recent tools that can be used to create therapeutic enzymes with improved features.
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49
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Ekpenyong M, Asitok A, Antigha R, Ogarekpe N, Ekong U, Asuquo M, Essien J, Antai S. Bioprocess Optimization of Nutritional Parameters for Enhanced Anti-leukemic L-Asparaginase Production by Aspergillus candidus UCCM 00117: A Sequential Statistical Approach. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021; 27:1501-1527. [PMID: 33716598 PMCID: PMC7942987 DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Sequential optimization of bioprocess nutritional conditions for production of glutaminase-near-free L-asparaginase by Aspergillus candidus UCCM 00117 was conducted under shake flask laboratory conditions. Catalytic and anti-cancer activities of the poly-peptide were evaluated using standard in vitro biochemical methods. Medium nutrients were selected by one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach while Plackett-Burman design (PBD) screened potential factors for optimization. Path of steepest ascent (PSA) and response surface methodology (RSM) of a Min-Run-Res V fractional factorial of a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) were employed to optimize factor levels towards improved enzyme activity. A multi-objective approach using desirability function generated through predictor importance and weighted coefficient methodology was adopted for optimization. The approach set optimum bioprocess conditions as 49.55 g/L molasses, 64.98% corn steep liquor, 44.23 g/L asparagine, 1.73 g/L potassium, 0.055 g/L manganese and 0.043 g/L chromium (III) ions, at a composite desirability of 0.943 and an L-asparaginase activity of 5216.95U. The Sephadex-200 partially-purified polypeptide had a specific activity of 476.84 U/mg; 0.087U glutaminase activity, 36.46% yield and 20-fold protein purification. Anti-cancer activity potentials of the catalytic poly-peptide were dose-dependent with IC50 (µg/mL): 4.063 (HL-60), 13.75 (HCT-116), 15.83 (HeLa), 11.68 (MCF-7), 7.61 (HepG-2). The therapeutic enzyme exhibited 15-fold more cytotoxicity to myeloid leukemia cell line than to normal (HEK 238 T) cell. Optimum temperature and pH for activity were within physiological range. However, significant interactions between exposure time and levels of each of temperature and pH made interpretations of residual enzyme activities difficult. The manganese-dependent L-asparaginase from Aspergillu s candidus UCCM 00117 is recommended for further anticancer drug investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurice Ekpenyong
- Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Unit, Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.,Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Atim Asitok
- Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Unit, Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Richard Antigha
- Department of Civil Engineering, Cross River University of Technology, Calabar, Cross River State Nigeria
| | - Nkpa Ogarekpe
- Department of Civil Engineering, Cross River University of Technology, Calabar, Cross River State Nigeria
| | - Ubong Ekong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Marcus Asuquo
- Department of Hematology, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Essien
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.,International Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Research (ICEESR), University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
| | - Sylvester Antai
- Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Unit, Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
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Chakravarty N, Priyanka, Singh J, Singh RP. A potential type-II L-asparaginase from marine isolate Bacillus australimaris NJB19: Statistical optimization, in silico analysis and structural modeling. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 174:527-539. [PMID: 33508362 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.01.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
L-asparaginase is a cardinal biotherapeutic drug for treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which is highly prevalent in children worldwide. In the current investigation, L-asparaginase producing marine bacterial isolate, Bacillus australimaris NJB19 (MG734654), was observed to be producing extracellular glutaminase free L-asparaginase (13.27 ± 0.4 IU mL-1). Production of L-asparaginase was enhanced by the Box-Behnken design approach that enumerated the significant variables affecting the enzyme production. The optimum levels of the derived variables resulted in 2.8-fold higher levels of the enzyme production (37.93 ± 1.06 IU mL-1). An 1146 bp L-asparaginase biosynthetic gene of Bacillus australimaris NJB19 was identified and cloned in E. coli DH5α, fused with a histidine tag. The in silico analysis of the protein sequence revealed the presence of a signal peptide and classified it as a type II L-asparaginase. Toxic peptide prediction disclosed no toxin domain in the protein sequence, hence suggesting it as a non-toxic protein. The secondary structure analysis of the enzyme displayed a comparable percentage of alpha-helical and random coil structure, while 14.39% and 6.57% of amino acid residues were composed of extended strands and beta-turns, respectively. The functional sites in the three-dimensional structural model of the protein were predicted and interestingly had a few less conserved residues. Bacillus australimaris NJB19 identified in this study produces type-II L-asparaginase, known for its high affinity for asparagine and effectiveness against leukemic cells. Hence, these observations indicate the L-asparaginase, thus obtained, as a potentially significant and novel therapeutic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Chakravarty
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Priyanka
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiv Nadar University, NH-91, Tehsil Dadri Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India
| | - Jyoti Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - R P Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, India.
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