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Vicente ATS, Salvador JAR. PROteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) in leukemia: overview and future perspectives. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e575. [PMID: 38845697 PMCID: PMC11154823 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Leukemia is a heterogeneous group of life-threatening malignant disorders of the hematopoietic system. Immunotherapy, radiotherapy, stem cell transplantation, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy are among the approved leukemia treatments. Unfortunately, therapeutic resistance, side effects, relapses, and long-term sequelae occur in a significant proportion of patients and severely compromise the treatment efficacy. The development of novel approaches to improve outcomes is therefore an unmet need. Recently, novel leukemia drug discovery strategies, including targeted protein degradation, have shown potential to advance the field of personalized medicine for leukemia patients. Specifically, PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are revolutionary compounds that allow the selective degradation of a protein by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Developed against a wide range of cancer targets, they show promising potential in overcoming many of the drawbacks associated with conventional therapies. Following the exponential growth of antileukemic PROTACs, this article reviews PROTAC-mediated degradation of leukemia-associated targets. Chemical structures, in vitro and in vivo activities, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical trials of PROTACs are critically discussed. Furthermore, advantages, challenges, and future perspectives of PROTACs in leukemia are covered, in order to understand the potential that these novel compounds may have as future drugs for leukemia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- André T. S. Vicente
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical ChemistryFaculty of PharmacyUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell BiologyUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB)University of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
| | - Jorge A. R. Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical ChemistryFaculty of PharmacyUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell BiologyUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB)University of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal
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2
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Ji Y, Chen W, Wang X. Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain Protein 2 in Multiple Human Diseases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:277-288. [PMID: 38565308 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002036] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal domain protein 2 (BRD2), a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) protein family, is a crucial epigenetic regulator with significant function in various diseases and cellular processes. The central function of BRD2 is modulating gene transcription by binding to acetylated lysine residues on histones and transcription factors. This review highlights key findings on BRD2 in recent years, emphasizing its roles in maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. BRD2's diverse functions are underscored by its involvement in diseases such as malignant tumors, neurologic disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic diseases, and virus infection. Notably, the potential role of BRD2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target is discussed in the context of various diseases. Although pan inhibitors targeting the BET family have shown promise in preclinical studies, a critical need exists for the development of highly selective BRD2 inhibitors. In conclusion, this review offers insights into the multifaceted nature of BRD2 and calls for continued research to unravel its intricate mechanisms and harness its therapeutic potential. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: BRD2 is involved in the occurrence and development of diseases through maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. Targeting BRD2 through protein degradation-targeting complexes technology is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for malignant cancer and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikang Ji
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
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3
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Li X, Mu P. Restoring our ubiquitination machinery to overcome resistance in cancer therapy. Oncoscience 2024; 11:43-44. [PMID: 38711948 PMCID: PMC11073315 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ping Mu
- Correspondence to:Ping Mu, Department of Molecular Biology, University of Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA email:
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4
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Walia Y, de Bock CE, Huang Y. The landscape of alterations affecting epigenetic regulators in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Roles in leukemogenesis and therapeutic opportunities. Int J Cancer 2024; 154:1522-1536. [PMID: 38155420 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34819] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive malignancy accounting for 10%-15% of pediatric and 20%-25% of adult ALL cases. Epigenetic irregularities in T-ALL include alterations in both DNA methylation and the post-translational modifications on histones which together play a critical role in the initiation and development of T-ALL. Characterizing the oncogenic mutations that result in these epigenetic changes combined with the reversibility of epigenetic modifications represents an opportunity for the development of epigenetic therapies. Oncogenic mutations and deregulated expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), Ten-Eleven Translocation dioxygenases (TETs), Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and members of Polycomb Repressor Complex 2 (PRC2) have all been identified in T-ALL. This review focuses on the current understanding of how these mutations lead to epigenetic changes in T-ALL, their association with disease pathogenesis and the current efforts to exploit these clinically through the development of epigenetic therapies in T-ALL treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashna Walia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Charles E de Bock
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yizhou Huang
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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Zhang R, Xie S, Ran J, Li T. Restraining the power of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras in the cage: A necessary and important refinement for therapeutic safety. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31255. [PMID: 38501341 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) represent a significant advancement in therapeutic drug development by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system to enable targeted protein degradation, particularly impacting oncology. This review delves into the various types of PROTACs, such as peptide-based, nucleic acid-based, and small molecule PROTACs, each addressing distinct challenges in protein degradation. It also discusses innovative strategies like bridged PROTACs and conditional switch-activated PROTACs, offering precise targeting of previously "undruggable" proteins. The potential of PROTACs extends beyond oncology, with ongoing research and technological advancements needed to maximize their therapeutic potential. Future progress in this field relies on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of advanced computational tools to open new treatment avenues across various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renshuai Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Songbo Xie
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Ran
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Te Li
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Xu MY, Zeng N, Liu CQ, Sun JX, An Y, Zhang SH, Xu JZ, Zhong XY, Ma SY, He HD, Hu J, Xia QD, Wang SG. Enhanced cellular therapy: revolutionizing adoptive cellular therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:47. [PMID: 38664743 PMCID: PMC11046957 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00506-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced cellular therapy has emerged as a novel concept following the basis of cellular therapy. This treatment modality applied drugs or biotechnology to directly enhance or genetically modify cells to enhance the efficacy of adoptive cellular therapy (ACT). Drugs or biotechnology that enhance the killing ability of immune cells include immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) / antibody drugs, small molecule inhibitors, immunomodulatory factors, proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC), oncolytic virus (OV), etc. Firstly, overcoming the inhibitory tumor microenvironment (TME) can enhance the efficacy of ACT, which can be achieved by blocking the immune checkpoint. Secondly, cytokines or cytokine receptors can be expressed by genetic engineering or added directly to adoptive cells to enhance the migration and infiltration of adoptive cells to tumor cells. Moreover, multi-antigen chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) can be designed to enhance the specific recognition of tumor cell-related antigens, and OVs can also stimulate antigen release. In addition to inserting suicide genes into adoptive cells, PROTAC technology can be used as a safety switch or degradation agent of immunosuppressive factors to enhance the safety and efficacy of adoptive cells. This article comprehensively summarizes the mechanism, current situation, and clinical application of enhanced cellular therapy, describing potential improvements to adoptive cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yao Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Na Zeng
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chen-Qian Liu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jian-Xuan Sun
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ye An
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Han Zhang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jin-Zhou Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xing-Yu Zhong
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Yang Ma
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hao-Dong He
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi-Dong Xia
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shao-Gang Wang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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7
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Elshazly AM, Shahin U, Al Shboul S, Gewirtz DA, Saleh T. A Conversation with ChatGPT on Contentious Issues in Senescence and Cancer Research. Mol Pharmacol 2024; 105:313-327. [PMID: 38458774 PMCID: PMC11026153 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.124.000871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, such as Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT), have achieved a high degree of popularity within the scientific community due to their utility in providing evidence-based reviews of the literature. However, the accuracy and reliability of the information output and the ability to provide critical analysis of the literature, especially with respect to highly controversial issues, has generally not been evaluated. In this work, we arranged a question/answer session with ChatGPT regarding several unresolved questions in the field of cancer research relating to therapy-induced senescence (TIS), including the topics of senescence reversibility, its connection to tumor dormancy, and the pharmacology of the newly emerging drug class of senolytics. ChatGPT generally provided responses consistent with the available literature, although occasionally overlooking essential components of the current understanding of the role of TIS in cancer biology and treatment. Although ChatGPT, and similar AI platforms, have utility in providing an accurate evidence-based review of the literature, their outputs should still be considered carefully, especially with respect to unresolved issues in tumor biology. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Artificial Intelligence platforms have provided great utility for researchers to investigate biomedical literature in a prompt manner. However, several issues arise when it comes to certain unresolved biological questions, especially in the cancer field. This work provided a discussion with ChatGPT regarding some of the yet-to-be-fully-elucidated conundrums of the role of therapy-induced senescence in cancer treatment and highlights the strengths and weaknesses in utilizing such platforms for analyzing the scientific literature on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Elshazly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia (A.M.E., D.A.G.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt (A.M.E.); and Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan (U.S., S.A.S., T.S.)
| | - Uruk Shahin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia (A.M.E., D.A.G.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt (A.M.E.); and Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan (U.S., S.A.S., T.S.)
| | - Sofian Al Shboul
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia (A.M.E., D.A.G.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt (A.M.E.); and Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan (U.S., S.A.S., T.S.)
| | - David A Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia (A.M.E., D.A.G.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt (A.M.E.); and Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan (U.S., S.A.S., T.S.)
| | - Tareq Saleh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia (A.M.E., D.A.G.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt (A.M.E.); and Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan (U.S., S.A.S., T.S.)
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8
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Forberg AL, Unrau J, Weber KS, Rutz AC, Lund S, Guidinger J, Pelzel A, Hauge J, Hemmen AJ, Hartert KT. Integrative analyses reveal outcome-associated and targetable molecular partnerships between TP53, BRD4, TNFRSF10B, and CDKN1A in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:199-209. [PMID: 37792064 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05478-x] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common, genomically heterogenous disease that presents a clinical challenge despite the success of frontline regimens and second-line chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. Recently, genomic alterations and tumor microenvironment features associated with poor CAR-T response have been identified, namely those to the TP53 tumor suppressor gene. This retrospective analysis aimed to integrate various data to identify genomic partnerships capable of providing further clarity and actionable treatment targets within this population. Publicly available data were analyzed for differential expression based on TP53 and 24-month event-free survival (EFS24) status, revealing enrichments of the BRD4 bromodomain oncogene (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001). High-BRD4 and TP53 alterations were significantly associated with lower CDKN1A (p21) and TNFRSF10B (TRAIL-R2), a key tumor suppressor and CAR-T modulator, respectively. Significant loss of CD8 T-cell presence within low-TNFRSF0B (p = 0.0042) and altered-TP53 (p = 0.0424) patients showcased relevant outcome-associated tumor microenvironment features. Furthermore, reduced expression of CDKN1A was associated with low TNFRSF10B (FDR < 0.0001) and increased BRD4 interactant genes (FDR < 0.0001). Promisingly, in vitro MDM2 inhibition with Idasnutlin and TP53 reactivation via Eprenetapopt was able to renew TNFRSF10B protein expression. Additionally, applying the BRD4-degrading PROTAC ARV-825 and the CDK4/6 inhibitor Abemaciclib as single-agents and in synergistic combination significantly reduced TP53-altered DLBCL cell line viability. Our analysis presents key associations within a genomic network of actionable targets capable of providing clarity within the evolving precision CAR-T treatment landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan L Forberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Jordan Unrau
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Kennedee S Weber
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Alison C Rutz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Shelby Lund
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Jinda Guidinger
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Andrew Pelzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Jackson Hauge
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Ainslee J Hemmen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Keenan T Hartert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA.
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Yang L, Jing Y, Xia X, Yin X. ARV-825 Showed Antitumor Activity against BRD4-NUT Fusion Protein by Targeting the BRD4. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2023; 2023:9904143. [PMID: 38130463 PMCID: PMC10735731 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9904143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective The bromodomain-containing 4 (BRD4) is a member of the bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) family, which is an important epigenetic reader. It is currently a promising oncology target. In some tumors, BET bromodomain inhibitors have demonstrated promising results. Proteolysis-targeting methods (PROTAC), which rapidly and effectively degrade BRD4, have displayed considerable potential in the treatment of tumors in recent years. The purpose of this study is to examine the potential impact of BRD4 PROTAC compounds ARV-825 on oncogene BRD4-NUT fused protein in NUT carcinoma. Methods The effectiveness of ARV-825 was evaluated at the cellular level using the cell counting kit 8 test, wound healing, cell transfection, western blotting analysis, and RNA sequencing. The effectiveness of ARV-825 was also examined in vivo using a xenograft model. Results The BRD4-NUT fusion gene was overexpressed in 3T3 cells, and the pathogenic fusion gene was simulated. The results showed that the overexpression of BRD4-NUT could promote the proliferation and migration of 3T3 cells, but the expression of BRD4 protein was degraded after the addition of the novel cereblon-based PROTAC compound ARV-825 against BRD4, resulting in inhibition of BRD4-NUT 3T3 cell proliferation and migration. Further RNA-seq analysis showed that overexpression of BRD4-NUT was accompanied by increased expression of gene (e.g., Myc, E2F, TRAFs, Wnt, Gadd45g, and Sox6) with significantly enriched pathway (e.g., small cell lung cancer, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, and breast cancer), promoted cell cycle from G 1 phase to S phase, and increased cell proliferation and migration, activated the antiapoptosisi signal, led to abnormal cell growth, and ultimately led to tumorigenesis. The addition of ARV-825 effectively rescued this process and effectively inhibited cell vitality, proliferation, and migration. In vivo studies demonstrated that treatment with ARV-825 greatly suppressed tumor growth without causing harmful side effects and downregulated the BRD4-NUT expression level. Conclusion Through the induction of BRD4 protein degradation, ARV-825 can successfully limit BRD4-NUT 3T3 cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggested that the BRD4 inhibitor ARV-825 would be an effective therapeutic strategy for treating NUT carcinoma that with the genetic feature of BRD4-NUT fusion event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
| | - Yue Jing
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
| | - Xia Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiushan Yin
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
- Roc Rock Biotechnology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518118, China
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Rani AQ, Bonam SR, Zhou J, Li J, Hu H, Liu X. BRD4 as a potential target for human papillomaviruses associated cancer. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29294. [PMID: 38100650 PMCID: PMC11315413 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29294] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Around 99% of cervical cancer and 5%-10% of human cancer are associated with human papillomaviruses (HPV). Notably, the life-cycle of HPV begins by low-level infection of the basal cells of the stratified epithelium, where the viral genomes are replicated and passed on to the daughter proliferating basal cells. The production of new viral particles remains restricted to eventually differentiated cells. HPVs support their persistent infectious cycle by hijacking pivotal pathways and cellular processes. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is one of the essential cellular factors involved in multiple stages of viral transcription and replication. In this review, we demonstrate the role of BRD4 in the multiple stages of HPV infectious cycle. Also, we provide an overview of the intense research about the cellular functions of BRD4, the mechanism of action of bromodomain and extra terminal inhibitors, and how it could lead to the development of antiviral/anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Qawee Rani
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Srinivasa Reddy Bonam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jenny Li
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Haitao Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Xuefeng Liu
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Departments of Pathology, Urology and Radiation Oncology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Zhang G. Prognostic clinical phenotypes associated with tumor stemness in the immune microenvironment of T-cell exhaustion for hepatocellular carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:203. [PMID: 37957420 PMCID: PMC10643807 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00819-8] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell exhaustion (TEX) and high heterogeneity of cancer stem cells (CSCs) are associated with progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we aim to characterize TEX-stemness-related genes (TEXSRGs) and screen for HCC patients who are more sensitive to immunotherapy. The immune cell abundance identifier (ImmuCellAI) was utilized to precisely evaluate the abundance of TEX and screen TEX-related genes. The stemness index (mRNAsi) of samples was analyzed through the one-class logistic regression (OCLR) algorithm. Application of the non-negative matrix decomposition algorithm (NMF) for subtype identification of HCC samples. The different subtypes were assessed for differences in prognosis, tumor microenvironment (TME) landscape, and immunotherapy treatment response. Then, the TEXSRGS-score, which can accurately forecast the survival outcome of HCC patients, was built by LASSO-Cox and multivariate Cox regression, and experimentally validated for the most important TEXSRGs. We also analyzed the expression of TEXSRGs and the infiltration of CD8+ T cells in clinical samples using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Based on 146 TEXSRGs, we found two distinct clinical phenotypes with different TEX infiltration abundance, tumor stemness index, enrichment pathways, mutational landscape, and immune cell infiltration through the non-negative matrix decomposition algorithm (NMF), which were confirmed in the ICGC dataset. Utilizing eight TEXSRGs linked to clinical outcome, we created a TEXSRGs-score model to further improve the clinical applicability. Patients can be divided into two groups with substantial differences in the characteristics of immune cell infiltration, TEX infiltration abundance, and survival outcomes. The results of qRT-PCR and IHC analysis showed that PAFAH1B3, ZIC2, and ESR1 were differentially expressed in HCC and normal tissues and that patients with high TEXSRGs-scores had higher TEX infiltration abundance and tumor stemness gene expression. Regarding immunotherapy reaction and immune cell infiltration, patients with various TEXSRGs-score levels had various clinical traits. The outcome and immunotherapy efficacy of patients with low TEXSRGs-score was favorable. In conclusion, we identified two clinical subtypes with different prognoses, TEX infiltration abundance, tumor cell stemness index, and immunotherapy response based on TEXSRGs, and developed and validated a TEXSRGs-score capable of accurately predicting survival outcomes in HCC patients by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. We believe that the TEXSRGs-score has prospective clinical relevance for prognostic assessment and may help physicians select prospective responders in preference to current immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Genhao Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Zhengzhou University First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
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12
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Kim SL, Choi HS, Lee DS. BRD4/nuclear PD-L1/RelB circuit is involved in the stemness of breast cancer cells. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:315. [PMID: 37924094 PMCID: PMC10623882 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01319-6] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide. BC stem cells (BCSCs) have been known to be involved in the carcinogenesis of the breast and contribute to therapeutic resistance. The programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression of BC correlated with a poor prognosis. Immunotherapies that target PD-L1 have great potential and have been successful when applied to cancer treatment. However, whether PD-L1 regulates BCSC formation is unknown. METHODS BCSCs were enriched by serum-free suspension culture. The properties of BCSCs were examined by mammosphere formation assay, CD44+/Cd24-, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) assay, CSC marker analysis, and mammosphere growth assay. To elucidate the functions of bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), nuclear PD-L1, and RelB proteins in the stemness of BCSCs, mammosphere formation was examined using BRD4 inhibitor and degrader, PD-L1 degrader, and RelB inhibitor. The antitumor function of 3',4',7,8-tetrahydroxyflavone (THF), a specific BRD4 inhibitor, was studied through in vivo tumor model and mouse studies, and the protein levels of c-Myc, PD-L1, and RelB were examined in tumor model under THF treatment. RESULTS BRD4 was upregulated in breast CSCs and regulates the stemness of BCs. The downregulation of BRD4 using BRD4 PROTAC, ARV-825, and BRD4 inhibitor, (+)-JQ1, inhibits mammosphere formation and reduces the levels of breast CSC markers (CD44+/CD24- and ALDH1), stem cell marker genes, and mammosphere growth. BRD4 inhibitor (JQ1) and degrader (ARV825) downregulate membrane and nuclear fractions of PD-L1 through the inhibition of PD-L1 transcript levels. The knockdown of PD-L1 inhibits mammosphere formation. Verteporfin, a PD-L1 degrader, inhibits the transcripts and protein levels of PD-L1 and downregulates the transcript and protein levels of RelB. Calcitriol, a RelB inhibitor, and the knockdown of RelB using si-RelB regulate mammosphere formation through interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression. THF is a natural product and a potent selective BRD4 inhibitor, inhibits mammosphere formation, and reduces the levels of CD44+/CD24- and mammosphere growth by downregulating c-Myc, PD-L1, and RelB. 3',4',7,8-THF shows tumoricidal activity and increased levels of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T-cells in the tumor and tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) in the murine tumor model using 4T1 and MC38 cells. CONCLUSIONS The results show the first evidence of the essential role of the BRD4/nuclear PD-L1/RelB axis in breast CSC formation. The nuclear PD-L1 regulates RelB, and the RelB/p65 complex induces IL6 and breast CSC formation. Targeting nuclear PD-L1 represents a potential and novel tool for immunotherapies of intractable BC. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Lim Kim
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program for Bio-health/Innovative Drug Development using Subtropical Bio-Resources, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Hack Sun Choi
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, SARI, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dong-Sun Lee
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Graduate Program for Bio-health/Innovative Drug Development using Subtropical Bio-Resources, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, SARI, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Ma T, Chen Y, Yi ZG, Li YH, Bai J, Li LJ, Zhang LS. BET in hematologic tumors: Immunity, pathogenesis, clinical trials and drug combinations. Genes Dis 2023; 10:2306-2319. [PMID: 37554207 PMCID: PMC10404881 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins act as "readers" for lysine acetylation and facilitate the recruitment of transcriptional elongation complexes. BET protein is associated with transcriptional elongation of genes such as c-MYC and BCL-2, and is involved in the regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis. Meanwhile, BET inhibitors (BETi) have regulatory effects on immune checkpoints, immune cells, and cytokine expression. The role of BET proteins and BETi in a variety of tumors has been studied. This paper reviews the recent research progress of BET and BETi in hematologic tumors (mainly leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma) from cellular level studies, animal studies, clinical trials, drug combination, etc. BETi has a promising future in hematologic tumors, and future research directions may focus on the combination with other drugs to improve the efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Ma
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Yi
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yan-Hong Li
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jun Bai
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Li-Juan Li
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Lian-Sheng Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
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14
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Sathe G, Sapkota GP. Proteomic approaches advancing targeted protein degradation. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:786-801. [PMID: 37778939 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging modality for research and therapeutics. Most TPD approaches harness cellular ubiquitin-dependent proteolytic pathways. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue (MG) degraders (MGDs) represent the most advanced TPD approaches, with some already used in clinical settings. Despite these advances, TPD still faces many challenges, pertaining to both the development of effective, selective, and tissue-penetrant degraders and understanding their mode of action. In this review, we focus on progress made in addressing these challenges. In particular, we discuss the utility and application of recent proteomic approaches as indispensable tools to enable insights into degrader development, including target engagement, degradation selectivity, efficacy, safety, and mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gajanan Sathe
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
| | - Gopal P Sapkota
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
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15
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Fan H, Zhou Z, Yu D, Sun J, Wang L, Jia Y, Tian J, Mi W, Sun H. Selective degradation of BRD4 suppresses lung cancer cell proliferation using GSH-responsive PROTAC precursors. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106793. [PMID: 37683536 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106793] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
BRD4,as a transcriptional and epigenetic regulator to mediate cellular functions, plays an important role in cancer development.Targeting BRD4 with conventional inhibitors in cancer therapy requires high doses, which often leads to off-target and adverse effects. BRD4-targeted proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) can catalytically degrade BRD4 utilizing the endogenous proteasome system, and exhibit promising anti-tumor activity. However, most of the developed PROTACs are non-cancer specific and relatively toxic towards normal cells, limiting their practical applications in cancer treatment. By taking advantage of higher glutathione (GSH) levels in cancer cells than that in normal cells, we developed several GSH-responsive PROTAC precursors 1a-c via the attachment of a GSH-trigger unit on the hydroxyl group of the VHL (von Hippel-Lindau) ligand for the recruitment of E3 ligase. Among the precursors, 1a can be efficiently activated by the innately higher concentrations of GSH in lung cancer cells (A549 and H1299) to release active PROTAC 1, degrading intracellular BRD4 and resulting in cytotoxicity, which is confirmed by mechanistic investigation. On the other hand, 1a cannot be efficiently triggered in normal lung cells (WI38 and HULEC-5a) containing lower levels of GSH, therefore reducing the adverse effects on normal cells. This work provides an alternative proof of concept approach for developing stimuli-responsive PROTAC precursors, and affords a novel insight to improve the selectivity and minimize the adverse effects of current PROTACs, hence enhancing their clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Fan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Zhili Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Dehao Yu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Jing Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Luo Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Jia
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Junyu Tian
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China
| | - Wenyi Mi
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China; The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China.
| | - Huabing Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China; The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, PR China.
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16
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Zhang K, Lu J, Fang F, Zhang Y, Yu J, Tao Y, liu W, Lu L, Zhang Z, Chu X, Wang J, Li X, Tian Y, Li Z, Li Q, Sang X, Ma L, Wang N, Pan J, Hu S. Super Enhancer Regulatory Gene FYB1 Promotes the Progression of T Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia by Activating IGLL1. J Immunol Res 2023; 2023:3804605. [PMID: 37767202 PMCID: PMC10522422 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3804605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Arising from T progenitor cells, T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematologic malignant tumor, accounting for 15% of childhood ALL and 25% of adult ALL. Composing of putative enhancers in close genomic proximity, super enhancer (SE) is critical for cell identity and the pathogenesis of multiple cancers. Belonging to the cytosolute linker protein group, FYB1 is essential for TCR signaling and extensively studied in terms of tumor pathogenesis and metastasis. Dissecting the role of FYN binding protein 1 (FYB1) in T-ALL holds the potential to improve the treatment outcome and prognosis of T-ALL. Methods In this study, SEs were explored using public H3K27ac ChIP-seq data derived from T-ALL cell lines, AML cell lines and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Downstream target of FYB1 gene was identified by RNA-seq. Effects of shRNA-mediated downregulation of FYB1 and immunoglobulin lambda-like polypeptide 1 (IGLL1) on self-renewal of T-ALL cells were evaluated in vitro and/or in vivo. Results As an SE-driven gene, overexpression of FYB1 was observed in T-ALL, according to the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database. In vitro, knocking down FYB1 led to comprised growth and enhanced apoptosis of T-ALL cells. In vivo, downregulation of FYB1 significantly decreased the disease burden by suppressing tumor growth and improved survival rate. Knocking down FYB1 resulted in significantly decreased expression of IGLL1 that was also an SE-driven gene in T-ALL. As a downstream target of FYB1, IGLL1 exerted similar role as FYB1 in inhibiting growth of T-ALL cells. Conclusion Our results suggested that FYB1 gene played important role in regulating self-renewal of T-ALL cells by activating IGLL1, representing a promising therapeutic target for T-ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunlong Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Yongping Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Juanjuan Yu
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Wenyuan liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Lihui Lu
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Xinran Chu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Yuanyuan Tian
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Zhiheng Li
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Qian Li
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Xu Sang
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Li Ma
- Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Ningling Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Shaoyan Hu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
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17
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Xie X, Yu T, Li X, Zhang N, Foster LJ, Peng C, Huang W, He G. Recent advances in targeting the "undruggable" proteins: from drug discovery to clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:335. [PMID: 37669923 PMCID: PMC10480221 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Undruggable proteins are a class of proteins that are often characterized by large, complex structures or functions that are difficult to interfere with using conventional drug design strategies. Targeting such undruggable targets has been considered also a great opportunity for treatment of human diseases and has attracted substantial efforts in the field of medicine. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the recent development of drug discovery targeting "undruggable" proteins and their application in clinic. To make this review well organized, we discuss the design strategies targeting the undruggable proteins, including covalent regulation, allosteric inhibition, protein-protein/DNA interaction inhibition, targeted proteins regulation, nucleic acid-based approach, immunotherapy and others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tingting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Elshazly AM, Sinanian MM, Neely V, Chakraborty E, Alshehri MA, McGrath MK, Harada H, Schoenlein PV, Gewirtz DA. BRD4 Inhibition as a Strategy to Prolong the Response to Standard of Care in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4066. [PMID: 37627092 PMCID: PMC10452571 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring malignancy in women and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths. ER+ breast cancer constitutes approximately 70% of all breast cancer cases. The standard of care for ER+ breast cancer involves estrogen antagonists such as tamoxifen or fulvestrant in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib. However, these treatments are often not curative, with disease recurrence and metastasis being responsible for patient mortality. Overexpression of the epigenetic regulator, BRD4, has been shown to be a negative prognostic indicator in breast cancer, and BET family inhibitors such as ARV-825 and ABBV-744 have garnered interest for their potential to improve and prolong the response to current therapeutic strategies. The current work examined the potential of utilizing ARV-825 and ABBV-744 to increase the effectiveness of tamoxifen or fulvestrant plus palbociclib. ARV-825 was effective in both p53 wild-type (WT) breast tumor cells and in cells lacking functional p53 either alone or in combination with tamoxifen, while the effectiveness of ABBV-744 was limited to fulvestrant plus palbociclib in p53 WT cells. These differential effects may be related to the capacity to suppress c-Myc, a downstream target of BRD4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Elshazly
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Melanie M. Sinanian
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
| | - Victoria Neely
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Eesha Chakraborty
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Muruj A. Alshehri
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michael K. McGrath
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, MCG Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.K.M.); (P.V.S.)
| | - Hisashi Harada
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Patricia V. Schoenlein
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, MCG Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.K.M.); (P.V.S.)
| | - David A. Gewirtz
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
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Huang YH, Wan CL, Dai HP, Xue SL. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy for T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma. Ann Hematol 2023; 102:2001-2013. [PMID: 37227492 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05286-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL/LBL) is an aggressive malignancy of progenitor T cells. Despite significant improvements in survival of T-ALL/LBL over the past decades, treatment of relapsed and refractory T-ALL (R/R T-ALL/LBL) remains extremely challenging. The prognosis of R/R T-ALL/LBL patients who are intolerant to intensive chemotherapy remains poor. Therefore, innovative approaches are needed to further improve the survival of R/R T-ALL/LBL patients. With the widespread use of next-generation sequencing in T-ALL/LBL, a range of new therapeutic targets such as NOTCH1 inhibitors, JAK-STAT inhibitors, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been identified. These findings led to pre-clinical studies and clinical trials of molecular targeted therapy in T-ALL/LBL. Furthermore, immunotherapies such as CD7 CAR T cell therapy and CD5 CAR T cell therapy have shown profound response rate in R/R T-ALL/LBL. Here, we review the progress of targeted therapies and immunotherapies for T-ALL/LBL, and look at the future directions and challenges for the further use of these therapies in T-ALL/LBL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Hong Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Chao-Ling Wan
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Hai-Ping Dai
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China.
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China.
| | - Sheng-Li Xue
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China.
- Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China.
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20
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Xie Q, Cheng J, Mei W, Yang D, Zhang P, Zeng C. Phase separation in cancer at a glance. J Transl Med 2023; 21:237. [PMID: 37005672 PMCID: PMC10067312 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04082-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells are segmented into multiple compartments or organelles within the cell that regulate distinct chemical and biological processes. Membrane-less organelles are membrane-less microscopic cellular compartments that contain protein and RNA molecules that perform a wide range of functions. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) can reveal how membrane-less organelles develop via dynamic biomolecule assembly. LLPS either segregates undesirable molecules from cells or aggregates desired ones in cells. Aberrant LLPS results in the production of abnormal biomolecular condensates (BMCs), which can cause cancer. Here, we explore the intricate mechanisms behind the formation of BMCs and its biophysical properties. Additionally, we discuss recent discoveries related to biological LLPS in tumorigenesis, including aberrant signaling and transduction, stress granule formation, evading growth arrest, and genomic instability. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of LLPS in cancer. Understanding the concept and mechanism of LLPS and its role in tumorigenesis is crucial for antitumor therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Xie
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, 518110, China
| | - Jiejuan Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, 437100, Hubei, China
| | - Wuxuan Mei
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, 437100, Hubei, China
| | - Dexing Yang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, 518110, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, 518110, China
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, 518110, China.
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21
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Kelm JM, Pandey DS, Malin E, Kansou H, Arora S, Kumar R, Gavande NS. PROTAC'ing oncoproteins: targeted protein degradation for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:62. [PMID: 36991452 PMCID: PMC10061819 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01707-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecularly targeted cancer therapies substantially improve patient outcomes, although the durability of their effectiveness can be limited. Resistance to these therapies is often related to adaptive changes in the target oncoprotein which reduce binding affinity. The arsenal of targeted cancer therapies, moreover, lacks coverage of several notorious oncoproteins with challenging features for inhibitor development. Degraders are a relatively new therapeutic modality which deplete the target protein by hijacking the cellular protein destruction machinery. Degraders offer several advantages for cancer therapy including resiliency to acquired mutations in the target protein, enhanced selectivity, lower dosing requirements, and the potential to abrogate oncogenic transcription factors and scaffolding proteins. Herein, we review the development of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for selected cancer therapy targets and their reported biological activities. The medicinal chemistry of PROTAC design has been a challenging area of active research, but the recent advances in the field will usher in an era of rational degrader design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Kelm
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Deepti S Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Evan Malin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hussein Kansou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Sahil Arora
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Raj Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Navnath S Gavande
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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22
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Li S, Chen T, Liu J, Zhang H, Li J, Wang Z, Shang G. PROTACs: Novel tools for improving immunotherapy in cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 560:216128. [PMID: 36933781 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, methylation, ubiquitination, and acetylation, are important in governing protein expression levels. Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are novel structures designed to target a protein of interest (POI) for ubiquitination and degradation, leading to the selective reduction in the expression levels of the POI. PROTACs have exhibited great promise due to their ability to target undruggable proteins, including several transcription factors. Recently, PROTACs have been characterized to improve anticancer immunotherapy via the regulation of specific proteins. In this review, we describe how the PROTACs target several molecules, including HDAC6, IDO1, EGFR, FoxM1, PD-L1, SHP2, HPK1, BCL-xL, BET proteins, NAMPT, and COX-1/2, to regulate immunotherapy in human cancers. PROTACs may provide potential treatment benefits by enhancing immunotherapy in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhe Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Jinxin Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Jiatong Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Anhui, 233030, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
| | - Guanning Shang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110004, China.
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23
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Cereblon-Recruiting PROTACs: Will New Drugs Have to Face Old Challenges? Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030812. [PMID: 36986673 PMCID: PMC10053963 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical low-molecular-weight drugs are designed to bind with high affinity to the biological targets endowed with receptor or enzymatic activity, and inhibit their function. However, there are many non-receptor or non-enzymatic disease proteins that seem undruggable using the traditional drug approach. This limitation has been overcome by PROTACs, bifunctional molecules that are able to bind the protein of interest and the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. This interaction results in the ubiquitination of POI and subsequent proteolysis in the cellular proteasome. Out of hundreds of proteins serving as substrate receptors in E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes, current PROTACs recruit only a few of them, including CRBN, cIAP1, VHL or MDM-2. This review will focus on PROTACs recruiting CRBN E3 ubiquitin ligase and targeting various proteins involved in tumorigenesis, such as transcription factors, kinases, cytokines, enzymes, anti-apoptotic proteins and cellular receptors. The structure of several PROTACs, their chemical and pharmacokinetic properties, target affinity and biological activity in vitro and in vivo, will be discussed. We will also highlight cellular mechanisms that may affect the efficacy of PROTACs and pose a challenge for the future development of PROTACs.
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24
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Epigenetic regulation in hematopoiesis and its implications in the targeted therapy of hematologic malignancies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:71. [PMID: 36797244 PMCID: PMC9935927 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01342-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are one of the most common cancers, and the incidence has been rising in recent decades. The clinical and molecular features of hematologic malignancies are highly heterogenous, and some hematologic malignancies are incurable, challenging the treatment, and prognosis of the patients. However, hematopoiesis and oncogenesis of hematologic malignancies are profoundly affected by epigenetic regulation. Studies have found that methylation-related mutations, abnormal methylation profiles of DNA, and abnormal histone deacetylase expression are recurrent in leukemia and lymphoma. Furthermore, the hypomethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors are effective to treat acute myeloid leukemia and T-cell lymphomas, indicating that epigenetic regulation is indispensable to hematologic oncogenesis. Epigenetic regulation mainly includes DNA modifications, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA-mediated targeting, and regulates various DNA-based processes. This review presents the role of writers, readers, and erasers of DNA methylation and histone methylation, and acetylation in hematologic malignancies. In addition, this review provides the influence of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs on hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, the implication of epigenetic regulation in targeted treatment is discussed. This review comprehensively presents the change and function of each epigenetic regulator in normal and oncogenic hematopoiesis and provides innovative epigenetic-targeted treatment in clinical practice.
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25
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Chen Q, Liu C, Wang W, Meng X, Cheng X, Li X, Cai L, Luo L, He X, Qu H, Luo J, Wei H, Gao S, Liu G, Wan J, Israel DI, Li J, Dou D. Optimization of PROTAC Ternary Complex Using DNA Encoded Library Approach. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:25-33. [PMID: 36606710 PMCID: PMC9872815 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) strategy results in the down-regulation of unwanted protein(s) for disease treatment. In the PROTAC process, a heterobifunctional degrader forms a ternary complex with a target protein of interest (POI) and an E3 ligase, which results in ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of the POI. While ternary complex formation is a key attribute of PROTAC degraders, modification of the PROTAC molecule to optimize ternary complex formation and protein degradation can be a labor-intensive and tedious process. In this study, we take advantage of DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology to efficiently synthesize a vast number of possible PROTAC molecules and describe a parallel screening approach that utilizes DNA barcodes as reporters of ternary complex formation and cooperative binding. We use a designed PROTAC DEL against BRD4 and CRBN to describe a dual protein affinity selection method and the direct discovery of novel, potent BRD4 PROTACs that importantly demonstrate clear SAR. Such an approach evaluates all the potential PROTACs simultaneously, avoids the interference of PROTAC solubility and permeability, and uses POI and E3 ligase proteins in an efficient manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxia Chen
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Xiaoyun Meng
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Xuemin Cheng
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Xianyang Li
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Longying Cai
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Linfu Luo
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Xu He
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Huan Qu
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Hong Wei
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Sen Gao
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Guansai Liu
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Jinqiao Wan
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | | | - Jin Li
- HitGen
Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
| | - Dengfeng Dou
- Lead
Generation Unit and Discovery Chemistry Unit, HitGen Inc., Chengdu, Sichuan 610200, China
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26
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Ren L, Yang Y, Li W, Yang H, Zhang Y, Ge B, Zhang S, Du G, Wang J. Recent advances in epigenetic anticancer therapeutics and future perspectives. Front Genet 2023; 13:1085391. [PMID: 36685834 PMCID: PMC9845602 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1085391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor development is frequently accompanied by abnormal expression of multiple genomic genes, which can be broadly viewed as decreased expression of tumor suppressor genes and upregulated expression of oncogenes. In this process, epigenetic regulation plays an essential role in the regulation of gene expression without alteration of DNA or RNA sequence, including DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs. Therefore, drugs developed for the above epigenetic modulation have entered clinical use or preclinical and clinical research stages, contributing to the development of antitumor drugs greatly. Despite the efficacy of epigenetic drugs in hematologic caners, their therapeutic effects in solid tumors have been less favorable. A growing body of research suggests that epigenetic drugs can be applied in combination with other therapies to increase efficacy and overcome tumor resistance. In this review, the progress of epigenetics in tumor progression and oncology drug development is systematically summarized, as well as its synergy with other oncology therapies. The future directions of epigenetic drug development are described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Ren
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yihui Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wan Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yizhi Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Binbin Ge
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jinhua Wang,
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27
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Bou Malhab LJ, Alsafar H, Ibrahim S, Rahmani M. PROTACs: Walking through hematological malignancies. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1086946. [PMID: 36909156 PMCID: PMC9994433 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1086946] [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: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional small molecules that uses the proteasome ubiquitin system to target proteins of interest and promote their degradation with remarkable selectivity. Importantly, unlike conventional small molecule inhibitors, PROTACs have proven highly effective in targeting undruggable proteins and those bearing mutations. Because of these considerations, PROTACs have increasingly become an emerging technology for the development of novel targeted anticancer therapeutics. Interestingly, many PROTACs have demonstrated a great potency and specificity in degrading several oncogenic drivers. Many of these, following extensive preclinical evaluation, have reached advanced stages of clinical testing in various cancers including hematologic malignancies. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the recent advances in the development of PROTACs as therapeutic strategies in diverse hematological malignancies. A particular attention has been given to clinically relevant PROTACs and those targeting oncogenic mutants that drive resistance to therapies. We also discus limitations, and various considerations to optimize the design for effective PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara J Bou Malhab
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saleh Ibrahim
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Rahmani
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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28
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Saraswat AL, Vartak R, Hegazy R, Patel A, Patel K. Drug delivery challenges and formulation aspects of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs). Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103387. [PMID: 36184017 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been extensively explored for targeted proteasomal degradation of disease-related proteins with enormous potential in the treatment of intractable diseases. However, PROTACs are poorly soluble and permeable bulky molecules facing several bioavailability challenges irrespective of the route of administration. Our review lays out crucial challenges in the delivery of target protein degraders and nanoformulation approaches to overcome physicochemical and biological hurdles that can aid in transporting these target-protein degraders to the disease site. We have elaborated on the current formulation approaches and further highlighted the prospective delivery strategies that could be probed for disease-specific targeted delivery of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya L Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Rehab Hegazy
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Pharmacology Department, Medical Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Akanksha Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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29
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Liu Z, Hu M, Yang Y, Du C, Zhou H, Liu C, Chen Y, Fan L, Ma H, Gong Y, Xie Y. An overview of PROTACs: a promising drug discovery paradigm. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:46. [PMID: 36536188 PMCID: PMC9763089 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology has emerged as a novel therapeutic paradigm in recent years. PROTACs are heterobifunctional molecules that degrade target proteins by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Currently, about 20-25% of all protein targets are being studied, and most works focus on their enzymatic functions. Unlike small molecules, PROTACs inhibit the whole biological function of the target protein by binding to the target protein and inducing subsequent proteasomal degradation. PROTACs compensate for limitations that transcription factors, nuclear proteins, and other scaffolding proteins are difficult to handle with traditional small-molecule inhibitors. Currently, PROTACs have successfully degraded diverse proteins, such as BTK, BRD4, AR, ER, STAT3, IRAK4, tau, etc. And ARV-110 and ARV-471 exhibited excellent efficacy in clinical II trials. However, what targets are appropriate for PROTAC technology to achieve better benefits than small-molecule inhibitors are not fully understood. And how to rationally design an efficient PROTACs and optimize it to be orally effective poses big challenges for researchers. In this review, we summarize the features of PROTAC technology, analyze the detail of general principles for designing efficient PROTACs, and discuss the typical application of PROTACs targeting different protein categories. In addition, we also introduce the progress of relevant clinical trial results of representative PROTACs and assess the challenges and limitations that PROTACs may face. Collectively, our studies provide references for further application of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Liu
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Mingxing Hu
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Yu Yang
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Chenghao Du
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Biological Sciences, USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, 90089 USA
| | - Haoxuan Zhou
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Chengyali Liu
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Yuanwei Chen
- Hinova Pharmaceuticals Inc., Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Lei Fan
- Hinova Pharmaceuticals Inc., Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Hongqun Ma
- Hinova Pharmaceuticals Inc., Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Youling Gong
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Thoracic Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Yongmei Xie
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041 China
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30
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Hill-Payne B, Dilones S, Burslem G. The importance of controls in targeted protein degradation: Determining mechanism. Methods Enzymol 2022; 681:215-240. [PMID: 36764758 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.10.006] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation has emerged as a useful approach for both basic biological investigations and therapeutic development. However, it can provide confounding results if not properly controlled. In this manuscript, we discuss the importance of proper controls and provide a detailed protocol for their application to proteolysis targeting chimera mediated degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Hill-Payne
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sebastian Dilones
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - George Burslem
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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31
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Divakaran A, Scholtz CR, Zahid H, Lin W, Griffith EC, Lee RE, Chen T, Harki DA, Pomerantz WCK. Development of an N-Terminal BRD4 Bromodomain-Targeted Degrader. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1621-1627. [PMID: 36262390 PMCID: PMC9575167 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is a powerful induced-proximity tool to control cellular protein concentrations using small molecules. However, the design of selective degraders remains empirical. Among bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family proteins, BRD4 is the primary therapeutic target over family members BRD2/3/T. Existing strategies for selective BRD4 degradation use pan-BET inhibitors optimized for BRD4:E3 ubiquitin ligase (E3) ternary complex formation, but these result in residual inhibition of undegraded BET-bromodomains by the pan-BET ligand, obscuring BRD4-degradation phenotypes. Using our selective inhibitor of the first BRD4 bromodomain, iBRD4-BD1 (IC50 = 12 nM, 23- to 6200-fold intra-BET selectivity), we developed dBRD4-BD1 to selectively degrade BRD4 (DC50 = 280 nM). Notably, dBRD4-BD1 upregulates BRD2/3, a result not observed with degraders using pan-BET ligands. Designing BRD4 selectivity up front enables analysis of BRD4 biology without wider BET-inhibition and simplifies designing BRD4-selective heterobifunctional molecules, such as degraders with new E3 recruiting ligands or for additional probes beyond degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Divakaran
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Cole R. Scholtz
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Huda Zahid
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Wenwei Lin
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Elizabeth C. Griffith
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Richard E. Lee
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Taosheng Chen
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Daniel A. Harki
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - William C. K. Pomerantz
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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BRD4 Inhibitor GNE-987 Exerts Anticancer Effects by Targeting Super-Enhancer-Related Gene LYL1 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:7912484. [PMID: 35958877 PMCID: PMC9359861 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7912484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. AML (acute myeloid leukemia) is a common hematological malignancy in children with poor treatment effects and poor prognosis. Recent studies have shown that as a novel BRD4 (bromodomain containing 4) PROTACs (proteolysis targeting chimeras) degrader, GNE-987 can slow down the growth of various tumors and increase apoptosis, with promising clinical prospects. However, the function and molecular mechanism of GNE-987 in AML remain unclear. This study is aimed at investigating the therapeutic effect of GNE-987 on AML and its underlying mechanism. Methods. The association between BRD4 and AML was assessed by studying public databases. After GNE-987 was added to AML cells, cell proliferation slowed down, the cycle was disturbed, and apoptosis increased. Western blotting was used to detect BRD2 (bromodomain containing 2), BRD3 (bromodomain containing 3), BRD4, and PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase) proteins. The effect of GNE-987 on AML cells was analyzed in vivo. RNA-seq (RNA sequencing) and ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing) validated the function and molecular pathways of GNE-987 in processing AML. Results. BRD4 expression was significantly elevated in pediatric AML samples compared with healthy donors. GNE-987 inhibited AML cell proliferation by inhibiting the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. BRD2, BRD3, and BRD4 were consistent with decreased VHL (Von Hippel Lindau) expression in AML cells. In an AML xenograft model, GNE-987 significantly reduced the hepatosplenic infiltration of leukemia cells and increased the mouse survival time. Based on analysis of RNA-seq and ChIP-seq analyses, GNE-987 could target multiple SE- (super-enhancer-) related genes, including LYL1 (lymphoblastic leukemia 1), to inhibit AML. Conclusions. GNE-987 had strong antitumor activity in AML. GNE-987 could effectively inhibit the expression of SE-related oncogenes including LYL1 in AML. Our results suggested that GNE-987 had broad prospects in the treatment of AML.
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Zhang K, Gao L, Wang J, Chu X, Zhang Z, Zhang Y, Fang F, Tao Y, Li X, Tian Y, Li Z, Sang X, Ma L, Lu L, Chen Y, Yu J, Zhuo R, Wu S, Pan J, Hu S. A Novel BRD Family PROTAC Inhibitor dBET1 Exerts Great Anti-Cancer Effects by Targeting c-MYC in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. Pathol Oncol Res 2022; 28:1610447. [PMID: 35832114 PMCID: PMC9272305 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents an aggressive hematopoietic malignancy with a prognosis inferior to that of other leukemias. Recent targeted therapies offer new opportunities to achieve better treatment outcomes. However, due to the complex heterogeneity of AML, its prognosis remains dismal. In this study, we first identified the correlation between high expression of BRD4 and overall survival of patients with AML. Targeted degradation of BRD2, BRD3, and BRD4 proteins by dBET1, a proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) against the bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) family members, showed cytotoxic effects on Kasumi (AML1-ETO), NB4 (PML-RARa), THP-1 (MLL-AF9), and MV4-11 (MLL-AF4) AML cell lines representing different molecular subtypes of AML. Furthermore, we determined that dBET1 treatment arrested cell cycling and enhanced apoptosis and c-MYC was identified as the downstream target. Collectively, our results indicated that dBET1 had broad anti-cancer effects on AML cell lines with different molecular lesions and provided more benefits to patients with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunlong Zhang
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Gao
- Department of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinran Chu
- Department of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongping Zhang
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Tian
- Department of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhiheng Li
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xu Sang
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Li Ma
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lihui Lu
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Juanjuan Yu
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ran Zhuo
- Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shuiyan Wu
- Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Pan, , ; Shaoyan Hu,
| | - Shaoyan Hu
- Department of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Pan, , ; Shaoyan Hu,
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Wu Y, Zhang J, Zhu X, Zhang Y. Developing PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) for hematologic malignancies. Cancer Lett 2022; 544:215808. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Proteolysis-targeting chimeras: A promising technique in cancer therapy for gaining insights into tumor development. Cancer Lett 2022; 539:215716. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Dai M, Radhakrishnan S, Li R, Tan R, Yan K, Fan G, Liu M. Targeted Protein Degradation: An Important Tool for Drug Discovery for "Undruggable" Tumor Transcription Factors. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2022; 21:15330338221095950. [PMID: 35466792 PMCID: PMC9047787 DOI: 10.1177/15330338221095950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional small-molecule drugs (SMDs) are compounds characterized by low
molecular weight, high cell permeability, and high selectivity. In clinical
translation, SMDs are regarded as good candidates for oral drug formulation. SMD
inhibitors play an important role in cancer treatment; however, resistance and
low effectiveness have been major bottlenecks in clinical application.
Generally, only 20% of cell proteins can potentially be targeted and have been
developed as SMDs; thus, some types of tumor targets are considered
“undruggable.” Among these are transcription factors (TFs), an important class
of proteins that regulate the occurrence, formation, and development of tumors.
It is difficult for SMDs and macromolecular drugs to identify bioactive sites in
TFs and hence for use as pharmacological inhibitors in targeting TF proteins.
For this reason, technologies that enable targeted protein degradation, such as
proteolysis-targeting chimera or molecular glues, could serve as a potential
tool to solve these conundrums.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, 89674Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sridhar Radhakrishnan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, 37580National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruirong Tan
- Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, 598782Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Kuo Yan
- Institute of Cell and Neurobiology, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gang Fan
- Department of Urology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,477382The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Pathology, 1861Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Liao X, Qian X, Zhang Z, Tao Y, Li Z, Zhang Q, Liang H, Li X, Xie Y, Zhuo R, Chen Y, Jiang Y, Cao H, Niu J, Xue C, Ni J, Pan J, Cui D. ARV-825 Demonstrates Antitumor Activity in Gastric Cancer via MYC-Targets and G2M-Checkpoint Signaling Pathways. Front Oncol 2021; 11:753119. [PMID: 34733788 PMCID: PMC8559897 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.753119] [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] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Suppression of bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) proteins has a bright prospect to treat MYC-driven tumors. Bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4) is one of the BET proteins. ARV-825, consisting of a BRD4 inhibitor conjugated with a cereblon ligand using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, was proven to decrease the tumor growth effectively and continuously. Nevertheless, the efficacy and mechanisms of ARV-825 in gastric cancer are still poorly understood. Methods Cell counting kit 8 assay, lentivirus infection, Western blotting analysis, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining, RNA sequencing, a xenograft model, and immunohistochemistry were used to assess the efficacy of ARV-825 in cell level and animal model. Results The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of BRD4 in gastric cancer raised significantly than those in normal tissues, which suggested poor outcome of patients with gastric cancer. ARV-825 displayed higher anticancer efficiency in gastric cancer cells than OTX015 and JQ1. ARV-825 could inhibit cell growth, inducing cell cycle block and apoptosis in vitro. ARV-825 induced degradation of BRD4, BRD2, BRD3, c-MYC, and polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) proteins in four gastric cancer cell lines. In addition, cleavage of caspase 3 and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) was elevated. Knockdown or overexpression CRBN could increase or decrease, respectively, the ARV-825 IC50 of gastric cancer cells. ARV-825 reduced MYC and PLK1 expression in gastric cancer cells. ARV-825 treatment significantly reduced tumor growth without toxic side effects and downregulated the expression of BRD4 in vivo. Conclusions High mRNA expression of BRD4 in gastric cancer indicated poor prognosis. ARV-825, a BRD4 inhibitor, could effectively suppress the growth and elevate the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells via transcription downregulation of c-MYC and PLK1. These results implied that ARV-825 could be a good therapeutic strategy to treat gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmei Liao
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqing Qian
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhiheng Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Liang
- Institute of Nanomedicine, National Engineering Research Centre for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Xie
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ran Zhuo
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - You Jiang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haibo Cao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Niu
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cuili Xue
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Ni
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Daxiang Cui
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Nanomedicine, National Engineering Research Centre for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, China
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Thompson LL, Rutherford KA, Lepage CC, McManus KJ. The SCF Complex Is Essential to Maintain Genome and Chromosome Stability. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8544. [PMID: 34445249 PMCID: PMC8395177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The SKP1, CUL1, F-box protein (SCF) complex encompasses a group of 69 SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes that primarily modify protein substrates with poly-ubiquitin chains to target them for proteasomal degradation. These SCF complexes are distinguishable by variable F-box proteins, which determine substrate specificity. Although the function(s) of each individual SCF complex remain largely unknown, those that have been characterized regulate a wide array of cellular processes, including gene transcription and the cell cycle. In this regard, the SCF complex regulates transcription factors that modulate cell signaling and ensures timely degradation of primary cell cycle regulators for accurate replication and segregation of genetic material. SCF complex members are aberrantly expressed in a myriad of cancer types, with altered expression or function of the invariable core SCF components expected to have a greater impact on cancer pathogenesis than that of the F-box proteins. Accordingly, this review describes the normal roles that various SCF complexes have in maintaining genome stability before discussing the impact that aberrant SCF complex expression and/or function have on cancer pathogenesis. Further characterization of the SCF complex functions is essential to identify and develop therapeutic approaches to exploit aberrant SCF complex expression and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L. Thompson
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; (L.L.T.); (K.A.R.); (C.C.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Kailee A. Rutherford
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; (L.L.T.); (K.A.R.); (C.C.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Chloe C. Lepage
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; (L.L.T.); (K.A.R.); (C.C.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Kirk J. McManus
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; (L.L.T.); (K.A.R.); (C.C.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
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Boyson SP, Gao C, Quinn K, Boyd J, Paculova H, Frietze S, Glass KC. Functional Roles of Bromodomain Proteins in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3606. [PMID: 34298819 PMCID: PMC8303718 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone acetylation is generally associated with an open chromatin configuration that facilitates many cellular processes including gene transcription, DNA repair, and DNA replication. Aberrant levels of histone lysine acetylation are associated with the development of cancer. Bromodomains represent a family of structurally well-characterized effector domains that recognize acetylated lysines in chromatin. As part of their fundamental reader activity, bromodomain-containing proteins play versatile roles in epigenetic regulation, and additional functional modules are often present in the same protein, or through the assembly of larger enzymatic complexes. Dysregulated gene expression, chromosomal translocations, and/or mutations in bromodomain-containing proteins have been correlated with poor patient outcomes in cancer. Thus, bromodomains have emerged as a highly tractable class of epigenetic targets due to their well-defined structural domains, and the increasing ease of designing or screening for molecules that modulate the reading process. Recent developments in pharmacological agents that target specific bromodomains has helped to understand the diverse mechanisms that bromodomains play with their interaction partners in a variety of chromatin processes, and provide the promise of applying bromodomain inhibitors into the clinical field of cancer treatment. In this review, we explore the expression and protein interactome profiles of bromodomain-containing proteins and discuss them in terms of functional groups. Furthermore, we highlight our current understanding of the roles of bromodomain-containing proteins in cancer, as well as emerging strategies to specifically target bromodomains, including combination therapies using bromodomain inhibitors alongside traditional therapeutic approaches designed to re-program tumorigenesis and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel P. Boyson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Colchester, VT 05446, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA;
| | - Cong Gao
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; (C.G.); (J.B.); (H.P.)
| | - Kathleen Quinn
- Department of Pharmacology, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA;
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; (C.G.); (J.B.); (H.P.)
| | - Joseph Boyd
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; (C.G.); (J.B.); (H.P.)
| | - Hana Paculova
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; (C.G.); (J.B.); (H.P.)
| | - Seth Frietze
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA; (C.G.); (J.B.); (H.P.)
- University of Vermont Cancer Center, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Karen C. Glass
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Colchester, VT 05446, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA;
- University of Vermont Cancer Center, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
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