1
|
Brodermann MH, Henderson EK, Sellar RS. The emerging role of targeted protein degradation to treat and study cancer. J Pathol 2024; 263:403-417. [PMID: 38886898 DOI: 10.1002/path.6301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The evolution of cancer treatment has provided increasingly targeted strategies both in the upfront and relapsed disease settings. Small-molecule inhibitors and immunotherapy have risen to prominence with chimeric antigen receptor T-cells, checkpoint inhibitors, kinase inhibitors, and monoclonal antibody therapies being deployed across a range of solid organ and haematological malignancies. However, novel approaches are required to target transcription factors and oncogenic fusion proteins that are central to cancer biology and have generally eluded successful drug development. Thalidomide analogues causing protein degradation have been a cornerstone of treatment in multiple myeloma, but a lack of in-depth mechanistic understanding initially limited progress in the field. When the protein cereblon (CRBN) was found to mediate thalidomide analogues' action and CRBN's neo-targets were identified, existing and novel drug development accelerated, with applications outside multiple myeloma, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome, and acute leukaemias. Critically, transcription factors were the first canonical targets described. In addition to broadening the application of protein-degrading drugs, resistance mechanisms are being overcome and targeted protein degradation is widening the scope of druggable proteins against which existing approaches have been ineffective. Examples of targeted protein degraders include molecular glues and proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs): heterobifunctional molecules that bind to proteins of interest and cause proximity-induced ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation via a linked E3 ligase. Twenty years since their inception, PROTACs have begun progressing through clinical trials, with early success in targeting the oestrogen receptor and androgen receptor in breast and prostate cancer respectively. This review explores important developments in targeted protein degradation to both treat and study cancer. It also considers the potential advantages and challenges in the translational aspects of developing new treatments. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth K Henderson
- Department of Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rob S Sellar
- Department of Haematology, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang Z, Che S, Yu Z. PROTAC: Novel degradable approach for different targets to treat breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106793. [PMID: 38740076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106793] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The revolutionary Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTACs) have the exciting potential to reshape the pharmaceutical industry landscape by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system for targeted protein degradation. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer in women, could be treated using PROTAC therapy. Although substantial work has been conducted, there is not yet a comprehensive overview or progress update on PROTAC therapy for breast cancer. Hence, in this article, we've compiled recent research progress focusing on different breast cancer target proteins, such as estrogen receptor (ER), BET, CDK, HER2, PARP, EZH2, etc. This resource aims to serve as a guide for future PROTAC-based breast cancer treatment design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China; Office of Drug Clinical Trials, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China
| | - Siyao Che
- Hepatological Surgery Department, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China.
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan 523018, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Singh S, Kachhawaha K, Singh SK. Comprehensive approaches to preclinical evaluation of monoclonal antibodies and their next-generation derivatives. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116303. [PMID: 38797272 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116303] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Biotherapeutics hold great promise for the treatment of several diseases and offer innovative possibilities for new treatments that target previously unaddressed medical needs. Despite successful transitions from preclinical to clinical stages and regulatory approval, there are instances where adverse reactions arise, resulting in product withdrawals. As a result, it is essential to conduct thorough evaluations of safety and effectiveness on an individual basis. This article explores current practices, challenges, and future approaches in conducting comprehensive preclinical assessments to ensure the safety and efficacy of biotherapeutics including monoclonal antibodies, toxin-conjugates, bispecific antibodies, single-chain antibodies, Fc-engineered antibodies, antibody mimetics, and siRNA-antibody/peptide conjugates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santanu Singh
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Kajal Kachhawaha
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Sumit K Singh
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhu W, Zhang W, Chen J, Tong Y, Xu F, Pang J. Discovery of Effective Dual PROTAC Degraders for Neurodegenerative Disease-Associated Aggregates. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3448-3466. [PMID: 38356330 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The aggregation of specific proteins is a histopathological hallmark in various neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), among which Alpha-synuclein (α-Syn) and tau have received increased attention. The targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategy has been studied in the treatment of NDs, but multitarget bifunctional molecules have been ignored. Herein, a series of effective dual PROTAC degraders were developed, which could degrade α-Syn aggregates and total tau simultaneously. The degradation effects were evaluated in vitro, and the results showed that T3 could significantly knockdown α-Syn aggregates and total tau in the degradation efficiency with DC50 of 1.57 ± 0.55 and 4.09 ± 0.90 μM, respectively. Further mechanistic exploration showed that the degradation effect was mediated by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Additionally, the therapeutic efficacy of T3 was confirmed in an MPTP-induced PD mouse model. Our results suggest that these dual PROTACs may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for NDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Zhu
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wenqian Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian Chen
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yichen Tong
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Fang Xu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization & Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE) & Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jiyan Pang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xie H, Zhang C. Potential of the nanoplatform and PROTAC interface to achieve targeted protein degradation through the Ubiquitin-Proteasome system. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116168. [PMID: 38310686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116168] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in selectively breaking down specific proteins. The ability of the UPS to target proteins effectively and expedite their removal has significantly contributed to the evolution of UPS-based targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies. In particular, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are an immensely promising tool due to their high efficiency, extensive target range, and negligible drug resistance. This breakthrough has overcome the limitations posed by traditionally "non-druggable" proteins. However, their high molecular weight and constrained solubility impede the delivery of PROTACs. Fortunately, the field of nanomedicine has experienced significant growth, enabling the delivery of PROTACs through nanoscale drug-delivery systems, which effectively improves the stability, solubility, drug distribution, tissue-specific accumulation, and stimulus-responsive release of PROTACs. This article reviews the mechanism of action attributed to PROTACs and their potential implications for clinical applications. Moreover, we present strategies involving nanoplatforms for the effective delivery of PROTACs and evaluate recent advances in targeting nanoplatforms to the UPS. Ultimately, an assessment is conducted to determine the feasibility of utilizing PROTACs and nanoplatforms for UPS-based TPD. The primary aim of this review is to provide innovative, reliable solutions to overcome the current challenges obstructing the effective use of PROTACs in the management of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this is a promising technology for improving the treatment status of major diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanshu Xie
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liang X, Ren H, Han F, Liang R, Zhao J, Liu H. The new direction of drug development: Degradation of undruggable targets through targeting chimera technology. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:632-685. [PMID: 37983964 DOI: 10.1002/med.21992] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Imbalances in protein and noncoding RNA levels in vivo lead to the occurrence of many diseases. In addition to the use of small molecule inhibitors and agonists to restore these imbalances, recently emerged targeted degradation technologies provide a new direction for disease treatment. Targeted degradation technology directly degrades target proteins or RNA by utilizing the inherent degradation pathways, thereby eliminating the functions of pathogenic proteins (or RNA) to treat diseases. Compared with traditional therapies, targeted degradation technology which avoids the principle of traditional inhibitor occupation drive, has higher efficiency and selectivity, and widely expands the range of drug targets. It is one of the most promising and hottest areas for future drug development. Herein, we systematically introduced the in vivo degradation systems applied to degrader design: ubiquitin-proteasome system, lysosomal degradation system, and RNA degradation system. We summarized the development progress, structural characteristics, and limitations of novel chimeric design technologies based on different degradation systems. In addition, due to the lack of clear ligand-binding pockets, about 80% of disease-associated proteins cannot be effectively intervened with through traditional therapies. We deeply elucidated how to use targeted degradation technology to discover and design molecules for representative undruggable targets including transcription factors, small GTPases, and phosphatases. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of targeted degradation technology-related research advances and a new guidance for the chimeric design of undruggable targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuewu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hairu Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengyang Han
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Renwen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sheng X, Xia Z, Yang H, Hu R. The ubiquitin codes in cellular stress responses. Protein Cell 2024; 15:157-190. [PMID: 37470788 PMCID: PMC10903993 DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwad045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination/ubiquitylation, one of the most fundamental post-translational modifications, regulates almost every critical cellular process in eukaryotes. Emerging evidence has shown that essential components of numerous biological processes undergo ubiquitination in mammalian cells upon exposure to diverse stresses, from exogenous factors to cellular reactions, causing a dazzling variety of functional consequences. Various forms of ubiquitin signals generated by ubiquitylation events in specific milieus, known as ubiquitin codes, constitute an intrinsic part of myriad cellular stress responses. These ubiquitination events, leading to proteolytic turnover of the substrates or just switch in functionality, initiate, regulate, or supervise multiple cellular stress-associated responses, supporting adaptation, homeostasis recovery, and survival of the stressed cells. In this review, we attempted to summarize the crucial roles of ubiquitination in response to different environmental and intracellular stresses, while discussing how stresses modulate the ubiquitin system. This review also updates the most recent advances in understanding ubiquitination machinery as well as different stress responses and discusses some important questions that may warrant future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangpeng Sheng
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, China
| | - Zhixiong Xia
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hanting Yang
- Department of Neurology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Translational Brain Research, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ronggui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Florio D, Marasco D. Could Targeting NPM1c+ Misfolding Be a Promising Strategy for Combating Acute Myeloid Leukemia? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:811. [PMID: 38255885 PMCID: PMC10815591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020811] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of diseases classified into various types on the basis of distinct features concerning the morphology, cytochemistry and cytogenesis of leukemic cells. Among the different subtypes, the group "AML with gene mutations" includes the variations of the gene of the multifunctional protein nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1). These mutations are the most frequent (~30-35% of AML adult patients and less in pediatric ones) and occur predominantly in the C-terminal domain (CTD) of NPM1. The most important mutation is the insertion at W288, which determines the frame shift W288Cfs12/Ffs12/Lfs*12 and leads to the addition of 2-12 amino acids, which hamper the correct folding of NPM1. This mutation leads to the loss of the nuclear localization signal (NoLS) and to aberrant cytoplasmic localization, denoted as NPM1c+. Many investigations demonstrated that interfering with the cellular location and oligomerization status of NPM1 can influence its biological functions, including the proper buildup of the nucleolus, and therapeutic strategies have been proposed to target NPM1c+, particularly the use of drugs able to re-direct NPM1 localization. Our studies unveiled a direct link between AML mutations and the neat amyloidogenic character of the CTDs of NPM1c+. Herein, with the aim of exploiting these conformational features, novel therapeutic strategies are proposed that rely on the induction of the selective self-cytotoxicity of leukemic blasts by focusing on agents such as peptides, peptoids or small molecules able to enhance amyloid aggregation and targeting selectively AML-NPM1c+ mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Marasco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jayaseelan VP, Loganathan K, Pandi A, Ramasubramanian A, Kannan B, Arumugam P. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras targeting epigenetic modulators: a promising strategy for oral cancer therapy. Epigenomics 2023; 15:1233-1236. [PMID: 37990892 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vijayashree Priyadharsini Jayaseelan
- Clinical Genetics lab, Centre for Cellular & Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600077, India
| | - Kavitha Loganathan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Ragas Dental College and Hospital, East Coast Road, Uthandi, Chennai - 600 119. Affiliated to The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Anna Salai, Guindy, Chennai - 600032, India
| | - Anitha Pandi
- Clinical Genetics lab, Centre for Cellular & Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600077, India
| | - Abilasha Ramasubramanian
- Department of Oral Pathology, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600077, India
| | - Balachander Kannan
- Centre for Cellular & Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600077, India
| | - Paramasivam Arumugam
- Centre for Cellular & Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences [SIMATS], Saveetha University, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600077, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Danishuddin, Jamal MS, Song KS, Lee KW, Kim JJ, Park YM. Revolutionizing Drug Targeting Strategies: Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Structure-Based Methods in PROTAC Development. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1649. [PMID: 38139776 PMCID: PMC10747325 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121649] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC) is an emerging technology in chemical biology and drug discovery. This technique facilitates the complete removal of the target proteins that are "undruggable" or challenging to target through chemical molecules via the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS). PROTACs have been widely explored and outperformed not only in cancer but also in other diseases. During the past few decades, several academic institutes and pharma companies have poured more efforts into PROTAC-related technologies, setting the stage for several major degrader trial readouts in clinical phases. Despite their promising results, the formation of robust ternary orientation, off-target activity, poor permeability, and binding affinity are some of the limitations that hinder their development. Recent advancements in computational technologies have facilitated progress in the development of PROTACs. Researchers have been able to utilize these technologies to explore a wider range of E3 ligases and optimize linkers, thereby gaining a better understanding of the effectiveness and safety of PROTACs in clinical settings. In this review, we briefly explore the computational strategies reported to date for the formation of PROTAC components and discuss the key challenges and opportunities for further research in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danishuddin
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | | | - Kyoung-Seob Song
- Department of Medical Science, Kosin University College of Medicine, 194 Wachi-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan 49104, Republic of Korea;
| | - Keun-Woo Lee
- Division of Life Science, Department of Bio & Medical Big-Data (BK4 Program), Research Institute of Natural Science (RINS), Gyeongsang National University (GNU), 501 Jinju-daero, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
- Angel i-Drug Design (AiDD), 33-3 Jinyangho-ro 44, Jinju 52650, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Joo Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yeong-Min Park
- Department of Integrative Biological Sciences and Industry, Sejong University, 209, Neugdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu Y, Yang J, Wang T, Luo M, Chen Y, Chen C, Ronai Z, Zhou Y, Ruppin E, Han L. Expanding PROTACtable genome universe of E3 ligases. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6509. [PMID: 37845222 PMCID: PMC10579327 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42233-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) and other targeted protein degradation (TPD) molecules that induce degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) offer new opportunities to engage targets that remain challenging to be inhibited by conventional small molecules. One fundamental element in the degradation process is the E3 ligase. However, less than 2% amongst hundreds of E3 ligases in the human genome have been engaged in current studies in the TPD field, calling for the recruiting of additional ones to further enhance the therapeutic potential of TPD. To accelerate the development of PROTACs utilizing under-explored E3 ligases, we systematically characterize E3 ligases from seven different aspects, including chemical ligandability, expression patterns, protein-protein interactions (PPI), structure availability, functional essentiality, cellular location, and PPI interface by analyzing 30 large-scale data sets. Our analysis uncovers several E3 ligases as promising extant PROTACs. In total, combining confidence score, ligandability, expression pattern, and PPI, we identified 76 E3 ligases as PROTAC-interacting candidates. We develop a user-friendly and flexible web portal ( https://hanlaboratory.com/E3Atlas/ ) aimed at assisting researchers to rapidly identify E3 ligases with promising TPD activities against specifically desired targets, facilitating the development of these therapies in cancer and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jingwen Yang
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tianlu Wang
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mei Luo
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Yamei Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chengxuan Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ze'ev Ronai
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eytan Ruppin
- Cancer Data Science Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892, MD, USA.
| | - Leng Han
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Choudhary D, Kaur A, Singh P, Chaudhary G, Kaur R, Bayan MF, Chandrasekaran B, Marji SM, Ayman R. Target protein degradation by protacs: A budding cancer treatment strategy. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108525. [PMID: 37696366 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common causes of death. So, its lethal effect increases with time. Near about hundreds of cancers are known in humans. Cancer treatment is done to cure or prolonged remission, and shrinkage of the tumor. Cytotoxic agents, biological agents/targeted drugs, hormonal drugs, surgery, radiotherapy/proton therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy are currently used in the treatment of cancer but their cost is high and cause various side effects. Seeing this, some new targeted strategies such as PROTACs are the need of the time. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has become one of the most discussed topics regarding cancer treatment. Few of the PROTAC molecules are in the trial phases. PROTACs have many advantages over other strategies such as modularity, compatibility, sub-stoichiometric activity, acting on undruggable targets, molecular design, and acts on intracellular targets, selectivity and specificity can be recruited for any cancer, versatility, and others. PROTACs are having some unclear questions on their pharmacokinetics, heavy-molecular weight, etc. PROTACs are anticipated to bring about a conversion in current healthcare and will emerge as booming treatments. In this review article we summarize PROTACs, their mechanism of action, uses, advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and future aspects for the successful development of potent PROTACs as a drug strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Choudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Amritpal Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Pargat Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Gaurav Chaudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Rajwinder Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India.
| | - Mohammad F Bayan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | | | - Saeed M Marji
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | - Reema Ayman
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhou Q, Xiang J, Qiu N, Wang Y, Piao Y, Shao S, Tang J, Zhou Z, Shen Y. Tumor Abnormality-Oriented Nanomedicine Design. Chem Rev 2023; 123:10920-10989. [PMID: 37713432 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Anticancer nanomedicines have been proven effective in mitigating the side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. However, challenges remain in augmenting their therapeutic efficacy. Nanomedicines responsive to the pathological abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are expected to overcome the biological limitations of conventional nanomedicines, enhance the therapeutic efficacies, and further reduce the side effects. This Review aims to quantitate the various pathological abnormalities in the TME, which may serve as unique endogenous stimuli for the design of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines, and to provide a broad and objective perspective on the current understanding of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines for cancer treatment. We dissect the typical transport process and barriers of cancer drug delivery, highlight the key design principles of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines designed to tackle the series of barriers in the typical drug delivery process, and discuss the "all-into-one" and "one-for-all" strategies for integrating the needed properties for nanomedicines. Ultimately, we provide insight into the challenges and future perspectives toward the clinical translation of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhou
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiajia Xiang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Nasha Qiu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yechun Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Piao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shiqun Shao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianbin Tang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhuxian Zhou
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Youqing Shen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jeong Y, Kim SB, Yang CE, Yu MS, Choi WS, Jeon Y, Lim JY. Overcoming the therapeutic limitations of EZH2 inhibitors in Burkitt's lymphoma: a comprehensive study on the combined effects of MS1943 and Ibrutinib. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1252658. [PMID: 37752998 PMCID: PMC10518396 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1252658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) are both key factors involved in the development and progression of hematological malignancies. Clinical studies have demonstrated the potential of various EZH2 inhibitors, which target the methyltransferase activity of EZH2, for the treatment of lymphomas. However, despite their ability to effectively reduce the H3K27me3 levels, these inhibitors have shown limited efficacy in blocking the proliferation of lymphoma cells. To overcome this challenge, we employed a hydrophobic tagging approach utilizing MS1943, a selective EZH2 degrader. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of two drugs, the FDA-approved EZH2 inhibitor Tazemetostat, currently undergoing clinical trials, and the novel drug MS1943, on Burkitt's lymphoma. Furthermore, we assessed the potential synergistic effect of combining these drugs with the BTK inhibitor Ibrutinib. In this study, we evaluated the effects of combination therapy with MS1943 and Ibrutinib on the proliferation of three Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines, namely RPMI1788, Ramos, and Daudi cells. Our results demonstrated that the combination of MS1943 and Ibrutinib significantly suppressed cell proliferation to a greater extent compared to the combination of Tazemetostat and Ibrutinib. Additionally, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of action and found that the combination therapy of MS1943 and Ibrutinib led to the upregulation of miR29B-mediated p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis PUMA, BAX, cleaved PARP, and cleaved caspase-3 in Burkitt's lymphoma cells. These findings highlight the potential of this innovative therapeutic strategy as an alternative to traditional EZH2 inhibitors, offering promising prospects for improving treatment outcomes in Burkitt's lymphoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurim Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Been Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae-Eun Yang
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Seo Yu
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Su Choi
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
- Department of Digital Anti-aging Health Care, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngwoo Jeon
- Department of Hematology, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Yeon Lim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kou P, Levy ES, Nguyen AD, Zhang D, Chen S, Cui Y, Zhang X, Broccatelli F, Pizzano J, Cantley J, Bortolon E, Rousseau E, Berlin M, Dragovich P, Sethuraman V. Development of Liposome Systems for Enhancing the PK Properties of Bivalent PROTACs. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2098. [PMID: 37631312 PMCID: PMC10458015 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082098] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are a promising new technology in drug development. They have rapidly evolved in recent years, with several of them in clinical trials. While most of these advances have been associated with monovalent protein degraders, bivalent PROTACs have also entered clinical trials, although progression to market has been limited. One of the reasons is the complex physicochemical properties of the heterobifunctional PROTACs. A promising strategy to improve pharmacokinetics of highly lipophilic compounds, such as PROTACs, is encapsulation in liposome systems. Here we describe liposome systems for intravenous administration to enhance the PK properties of two bivalent PROTAC molecules, by reducing clearance and increasing systemic coverage. We developed and characterized a PROTAC-in-cyclodextrin liposome system where the drug was retained in the liposome core. In PK studies at 1 mg/kg for GNE-01 the PROTAC-in-cyclodextrin liposome, compared to the solution formulation, showed a 80- and a 380-fold enhancement in AUC for mouse and rat studies, respectively. We further investigated the same PROTAC-in-cyclodextrin liposome system with the second PROTAC (GNE-02), where we monitored both lipid and drug concentrations in vivo. Similarly, in a mouse PK study of GEN-02, the PROTAC-in-cyclodextrin liposome system exhibited enhancement in plasma concentration of a 23× increase over the conventional solution formulation. Importantly, the lipid CL correlated with the drug CL. Additionally, we investigated a conventional liposome approach for GNE-02, where the PROTAC resides in the lipid bilayer. Here, a 5× increase in AUC was observed, compared to the conventional solution formulation, and the drug CL was faster than the lipid CL. These results indicate that the different liposome systems can be tailored to translate across multiple PROTAC systems to modulate and improve plasma concentrations. Optimization of the liposomes could further improve tumor concentration and improve the overall therapeutic index (TI). This delivery technology may be well suited to bring novel protein targeted PROTACs into clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ponien Kou
- Small Molecules Pharmaceutics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (P.K.); (E.S.L.); (A.D.N.)
| | - Elizabeth S. Levy
- Small Molecules Pharmaceutics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (P.K.); (E.S.L.); (A.D.N.)
| | - An D. Nguyen
- Small Molecules Pharmaceutics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (P.K.); (E.S.L.); (A.D.N.)
| | - Donglu Zhang
- Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (D.Z.); (S.C.); (Y.C.); (X.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Shu Chen
- Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (D.Z.); (S.C.); (Y.C.); (X.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Yusi Cui
- Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (D.Z.); (S.C.); (Y.C.); (X.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Xing Zhang
- Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (D.Z.); (S.C.); (Y.C.); (X.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Fabio Broccatelli
- Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (D.Z.); (S.C.); (Y.C.); (X.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Jennifer Pizzano
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Jennifer Cantley
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Elizabeth Bortolon
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Emma Rousseau
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Michael Berlin
- Arvinas LLC, 5 Science Park, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.B.); (E.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Peter Dragovich
- Medicinal Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA;
| | - Vijay Sethuraman
- Small Molecules Pharmaceutics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (P.K.); (E.S.L.); (A.D.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhang J, Ma C, Yu Y, Liu C, Fang L, Rao H. Single amino acid-based PROTACs trigger degradation of the oncogenic kinase BCR-ABL in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104994. [PMID: 37392851 PMCID: PMC10388202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104994] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) that specifically targets harmful proteins for destruction by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system is emerging as a potent anticancer strategy. How to efficiently modulate the target degradation remains a challenging issue. In this study, we employ a single amino acid-based PROTAC, which uses the shortest degradation signal sequence as the ligand of the N-end rule E3 ubiquitin ligases to degrade the fusion protein BCR (breakpoint cluster region)-ABL (Abelson proto-oncogene), an oncogenic kinase that drives the progression of chronic myeloid leukemia. We find that the reduction level of BCR-ABL can be easily adjusted by substituting different amino acids. Furthermore, a single PEG linker is found to achieve the best proteolytic effect. Our efforts have resulted in effective degradation of BCR-ABL protein by the N-end rule pathway and efficient growth inhibition of K562 cells expressing BCR-ABL in vitro and blunted tumor growth in a K562 xenograft tumor model in vivo. The PROTAC presented has unique advantages including lower effective concentration, smaller molecular size, and modular degradation rate. Demonstrating the efficacy of the N-end rule-based PROTACs in vitro and in vivo, our study further expands the limited degradation pathways currently available for PROTACs in vivo and is easily adapted for broader applications in targeted protein degradation.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Proteolysis Targeting Chimera
- Amino Acids
- Fusion Proteins, bcr-abl/genetics
- Fusion Proteins, bcr-abl/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/genetics
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/metabolism
- K562 Cells
- Ubiquitins
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianchao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Caibing Ma
- Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongjun Yu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chaowei Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lijing Fang
- Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Hai Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China; Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yang Y, Chen S, Wang Q, Niu MM, Qu Y, Zhou Y. Identification of novel and potent dual-targeting HDAC1/SPOP inhibitors using structure-based virtual screening, molecular dynamics simulation and evaluation of in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1208740. [PMID: 37492092 PMCID: PMC10363607 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1208740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the important factors threatening human health. Hence, it is essential to create novel potent drugs to treat it. Due to the strong correlation among histone deacetylase1 (HDAC1), speckle-type POZ protein (SPOP) and cancers, dual inhibition of HDAC1 and SPOP may be a promising strategy for cancer treatment. In this study, we successfully identified four potential dual-targeting HDAC1/SPOP candidate compounds with structure-based virtual screening. In vitro inhibition experiments confirmed that the four compounds had dual inhibitory effects on HDAC1 and SPOP. Among them, compound HS-2 had a stronger inhibitory effect on HDAC1 and SPOP than the positive controls. Further molecular dynamics simulations indicated that HS-2 could stably bind to HDAC1 and SPOP. In addition, MTT assay indicated that HS-2 inhibited the growth of tumor cells in the micromolar range. In vivo evaluation showed that HS-2 could obviously inhibit the growth of tumor in nude mice without obvious toxicity. These findings suggest that HS-2 is a novel and potent dual-targeting HDAC1/SPOP inhibitor for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingxue Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People’s Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Shutong Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qinghua Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People’s Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Miao-Miao Niu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanqian Qu
- Department of Pathology, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wang Y, Li Z, Mo F, Chen-Mayfield TJ, Saini A, LaMere AM, Hu Q. Chemically engineering cells for precision medicine. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:1068-1102. [PMID: 36633324 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00142j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based therapy holds great potential to address unmet medical needs and revolutionize the healthcare industry, as demonstrated by several therapeutics such as CAR-T cell therapy and stem cell transplantation that have achieved great success clinically. Nevertheless, natural cells are often restricted by their unsatisfactory in vivo trafficking and lack of therapeutic payloads. Chemical engineering offers a cost-effective, easy-to-implement engineering tool that allows for strengthening the inherent favorable features of cells and confers them new functionalities. Moreover, in accordance with the trend of precision medicine, leveraging chemical engineering tools to tailor cells to accommodate patients individual needs has become important for the development of cell-based treatment modalities. This review presents a comprehensive summary of the currently available chemically engineered tools, introduces their application in advanced diagnosis and precision therapy, and discusses the current challenges and future opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Wang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. .,Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Wisconsin Center for NanoBioSystems, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Zhaoting Li
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. .,Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Wisconsin Center for NanoBioSystems, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Fanyi Mo
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Ting-Jing Chen-Mayfield
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Aryan Saini
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Afton Martin LaMere
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Quanyin Hu
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. .,Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Wisconsin Center for NanoBioSystems, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ahmad H, Zia B, Husain H, Husain A. Recent Advances in PROTAC-Based Antiviral Strategies. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020270. [PMID: 36851148 PMCID: PMC9958553 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous mysteries of cell and molecular biology have been resolved through extensive research into intracellular processes, which has also resulted in the development of innovative technologies for the treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases. Some of the deadliest diseases, accounting for a staggering number of deaths, have been caused by viruses. Conventional antiviral therapies have been unable to achieve a feat in combating viral infections. As a result, the healthcare system has come under tremendous pressure globally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to discover and develop newer therapeutic approaches against viruses. One such innovative approach that has recently garnered attention in the research world and can be exploited for developing antiviral therapeutic strategies is the PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTAC) technology, in which heterobifunctional compounds are employed for the selective degradation of target proteins by the intracellular protein degradation machinery. This review covers the most recent advancements in PROTAC technology, its diversity and mode of action, and how it can be applied to open up new possibilities for creating cutting-edge antiviral treatments and vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Bushra Zia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Hashir Husain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Afzal Husain
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wu M, Zhang R, Zhang Z, Zhang N, Li C, Xie Y, Xia H, Huang F, Zhang R, Liu M, Li X, Cen S, Zhou J. Selective androgen receptor degrader (SARD) to overcome antiandrogen resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer. eLife 2023; 12:70700. [PMID: 36656639 PMCID: PMC9901937 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), clinical resistances such as androgen receptor (AR) mutation, AR overexpression, and AR splice variants (ARVs) limit the effectiveness of second-generation antiandrogens (SGAs). Several strategies have been implemented to develop novel antiandrogens to circumvent the occurring resistance. Here, we found and identified a bifunctional small molecule Z15, which is both an effective AR antagonist and a selective AR degrader. Z15 could directly interact with the ligand-binding domain (LBD) and activation function-1 region of AR, and promote AR degradation through the proteasome pathway. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that Z15 efficiently suppressed AR, AR mutants and ARVs transcription activity, downregulated mRNA and protein levels of AR downstream target genes, thereby overcoming AR LBD mutations, AR amplification, and ARVs-induced SGAs resistance in CRPC. In conclusion, our data illustrate the synergistic importance of AR antagonism and degradation in advanced prostate cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Department of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Rongyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Zixiong Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ning Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Chenfan Li
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Yongli Xie
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Haoran Xia
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Fangjiao Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Ruoying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shan Cen
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingChina
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal UniversityJinhuaChina
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Khan S, Budamagunta V, Zhou D. Targeting KRAS in pancreatic cancer: Emerging therapeutic strategies. Adv Cancer Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
|
24
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Vicente ATS, Salvador JAR. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) targeting the BCR-ABL for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia - a patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:397-420. [PMID: 37494069 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2240025] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) allow the selective degradation of a protein of interest (POI) by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). With this unique mechanism of action, the research and development of PROTACs that target the Breakpoint Cluster Region Abelson (BCR-ABL) tyrosine kinase (TK) has been increasing dramatically, as they are promising molecules in the treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), one of the main hematological malignancies, which results from an uncontrolled myeloproliferation due to the constitutive activation of BCR-ABL. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the patents/applications published in the online databases like Espacenet or World Intellectual Property Organization regarding PROTACs that promote BCR-ABL degradation. Patents will be described mostly in terms of chemical structure, biochemical/pharmacological activities, and potential clinical applications. EXPERT OPINION The recent discovery of the enormous potential of PROTACs led to the creation of new compounds capable of degrading BCR-ABL for the treatment of CML. Although still in reduced numbers, and in the pre-clinical phase of development, some compounds have already been shown to overcome some of the difficulties presented by conventional BCR-ABL inhibitors, such as the well-known imatinib. Therefore, it is very likely that some of the present PROTACs will enter future CML therapy in the coming years.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Proteolysis Targeting Chimera
- Proteolysis
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Patents as Topic
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/pathology
- Fusion Proteins, bcr-abl/chemistry
- Fusion Proteins, bcr-abl/metabolism
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André T S Vicente
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Shiah JV, Johnson DE, Grandis JR. Transcription Factors and Cancer: Approaches to Targeting. Cancer J 2023; 29:38-46. [PMID: 36693157 PMCID: PMC9881838 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000639] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Cancer is defined by the presence of uncontrollable cell growth, whereby improper proliferative signaling has overcome regulation by cellular mechanisms. Transcription factors are uniquely situated at the helm of signaling, merging extracellular stimuli with intracellular responses. Therefore, this class of proteins plays a pivotal role in coordinating the correct gene expression levels for maintaining normal cellular functions. Dysregulation of transcription factor activity unsurprisingly drives tumorigenesis and oncogenic transformation. Although this imparts considerable therapeutic potential to targeting transcription factors, their lack of enzymatic activity renders intervention challenging and has contributed to a sense that transcription factors are "undruggable." Yet, enduring efforts to elucidate strategies for targeting transcription factors as well as a deeper understanding of their interactions with binding partners have led to advancements that are emerging to counter this narrative. Here, we highlight some of these approaches, focusing primarily on therapeutics that have advanced to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie V Shiah
- From the Department Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jaiswal A, Jaiswal A, Williamson EA, Gelfond J, Zheng G, Zhou D, Hromas R. Resistance to the BCL-XL degrader DT2216 in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is rare and correlates with decreased BCL-XL proteolysis. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2023; 91:89-95. [PMID: 36346454 PMCID: PMC10405225 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-022-04490-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The BCL-2 family of anti-apoptotic proteins, BCL-2, BCL-XL and MCL-1, can mediate survival of some types of cancer. DT2216 is a PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC) that degrades BCL-XL specifically and is in phase 1 trials. We sought to define the frequency and mechanism of resistance to DT2216 in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cell lines. METHODS We measured cell survival and protein levels of BCL-XL, BCL-2, MCL-1 and the pro-apoptotic BIM in 13 distinct T-ALL cell lines after exposure to varying concentrations of DT2216. RESULTS We identified concentrations of DT2216 which were cytotoxic to each T-ALL cell line. These concentrations have no correlation with the initial protein levels of BCL-XL, BCL-2, MCL-1 or BIM in each cell line. However, there was a correlation between survival to DT2216 and the efficiency of degradation of BCL-XL by DT2216. Only one cell line, SUP-T1, had significant resistance to DT2216, defined as an IC50 above what is achievable in murine tumors in vivo. CONCLUSION Resistance to DT2216 is rare in a wide variety of T-ALL cells but when it occurs is correlated with decreased BCL-XL degradation. Resistance to DT2216 in T-ALL is not predicted by initial BCL-XL or BIM protein levels, or BCL-2 or MCL-1 levels before or after treatment. These data imply that a phase 2 clinical trial of DT2216 in T-ALL should be widely available and not limited to a subset of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arunima Jaiswal
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and the Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Aruna Jaiswal
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and the Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Williamson
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and the Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Jonathon Gelfond
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Center for Innovative Drug Development and the Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Robert Hromas
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and the Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Fuchs O. Targeting cereblon in hematologic malignancies. Blood Rev 2023; 57:100994. [PMID: 35933246 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.100994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The protein cereblon (CRBN) is a substrate receptor of the cullin 4-really interesting new gene (RING) E3 ubiquitin ligase complex CRL4CRBN. Targeting CRBN mediates selective protein ubiquitination and subsequent degradation via the proteasome. This review describes novel thalidomide analogs, immunomodulatory drugs, also known as CRBN E3 ubiquitin ligase modulators or molecular glues (avadomide, iberdomide, CC-885, CC-90009, BTX-1188, CC-92480, CC-99282, CFT7455, and CC-91633), and CRBN-based proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) with increased efficacy and potent activity for application in hematologic malignancies. Both types of CRBN-binding drugs, molecular glues, and PROTACs stimulate the interaction between CRBN and its neosubstrates, recruiting target disease-promoting proteins and the E3 ubiquitin ligase CRL4CRBN. Proteins that are traditionally difficult to target (transcription factors and oncoproteins) can be polyubiquitinated and degraded in this way. The competition of CRBN neosubstrates with endogenous CRBN-interacting proteins and the pharmacology and rational combination therapies of and mechanisms of resistance to CRL4CRBN modulators or CRBN-based PROTACs are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ota Fuchs
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, U Nemocnice 1, 12800 Praha 2, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jin J, Wu Y, Zhao Z, Wu Y, Zhou YD, Liu S, Sun Q, Yang G, Lin J, Nagle DG, Qin J, Zhang Z, Chen HZ, Zhang W, Sun S, Luan X. Small-molecule PROTAC mediates targeted protein degradation to treat STAT3-dependent epithelial cancer. JCI Insight 2022; 7:160606. [PMID: 36509291 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.160606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aberrant activation of STAT3 is associated with the etiology and progression in a variety of malignant epithelial-derived tumors, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Due to the lack of an enzymatic catalytic site or a ligand-binding pocket, there are no small-molecule inhibitors directly targeting STAT3 that have been approved for clinical translation. Emerging proteolysis targeting chimeric (PROTAC) technology-based approach represents a potential strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional inhibitors and inhibit activation of STAT3 and downstream genes. In this study, the heterobifunctional small-molecule-based PROTACs are successfully prepared from toosendanin (TSN), with 1 portion binding to STAT3 and the other portion binding to an E3 ubiquitin ligase. The optimized lead PROTAC (TSM-1) exhibits superior selectivity, potency, and robust antitumor effects in STAT3-dependent HNSCC and CRC - especially in clinically relevant patient-derived xenografts (PDX) and patient-derived organoids (PDO). The following mechanistic investigation identifies the reduced expression of critical downstream STAT3 effectors, through which TSM-1 promotes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in tumor cells. These findings provide the first demonstration to our knowledge of a successful PROTAC-targeting strategy in STAT3-dependent epithelial cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinmei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaping Wu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head 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, and.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeng Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,China Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, and
| | - Sanhong Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyan Sun
- China Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Guizhu Yang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head 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, and.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dale G Nagle
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, and.,Department of BioMolecular Sciences and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
| | - Jiangjiang Qin
- Zhejiang Provincial Research Center for Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head 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, and.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Zhuan Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuyang Sun
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head 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, and.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
The Landscape of Nucleic-Acid-Based Aptamers for Treatment of Hematologic Malignancies: Challenges and Future Directions. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9110635. [PMID: 36354547 PMCID: PMC9687288 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, myeloproliferative disorder and plasma cell neoplasia, are genetically heterogeneous and characterized by an uncontrolled proliferation of their corresponding cell lineages in the bone marrow, peripheral blood, tissues or plasma. Although there are many types of therapeutic drugs (e.g., TKIs, chemotherapy drugs) available for treatment of different malignancies, the relapse, drug resistance and severe side effects due to the lack of selectivity seriously limit their clinical application. Currently, although antibody–drug conjugates have been well established as able to target and deliver highly potent chemotherapy agents into cancer cells for the reduction of damage to healthy cells and have achieved success in leukemia treatment, they still also have shortcomings such as high cost, high immunogenicity and low stability. Aptamers are ssDNA or RNA oligonucleotides that can also precisely deliver therapeutic agents into cancer cells through specifically recognizing the membrane protein on cancer cells, which is similar to the capabilities of monoclonal antibodies. Aptamers exhibit higher binding affinity, lower immunogenicity and higher thermal stability than antibodies. Therefore, in this review we comprehensively describe recent advances in the development of aptamer–drug conjugates (ApDCs) with cytotoxic payload through chemical linkers or direct incorporation, as well as further introduce the latest promising aptamers-based therapeutic strategies such as aptamer–T cell therapy and aptamer–PROTAC, clarifying their bright application, development direction and challenges in the treatment of hematologic malignancies.
Collapse
|
31
|
Krawiec K, Strzałka P, Czemerska M, Wiśnik A, Zawlik I, Wierzbowska A, Pluta A. Targeting Apoptosis in AML: Where Do We Stand? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14204995. [PMID: 36291779 PMCID: PMC9600036 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14204995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), genetic mutations can cause cells to evade regulated cell death (RCD), resulting in excessive cell proliferation. The best-known form of RCD is apoptosis, which prevents the emergence of cancer cells; disturbances in this process are an important factor in the development and progression of AML. Clearly, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of apoptosis to establish a personalized, patient-specific approach in AML therapy. Therefore, this paper comprehensively reviews the current range of AML treatment approaches related to apoptosis and highlights other promising concepts such as neddylation. Abstract More than 97% of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) demonstrate genetic mutations leading to excessive proliferation combined with the evasion of regulated cell death (RCD). The most prominent and well-defined form of RCD is apoptosis, which serves as a defense mechanism against the emergence of cancer cells. Apoptosis is regulated in part by the BCL-2 family of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins, whose balance can significantly determine cell survival. Apoptosis evasion plays a key role in tumorigenesis and drug resistance, and thus in the development and progression of AML. Research on the structural and biochemical aspects of apoptosis proteins and their regulators offers promise for new classes of targeted therapies and strategies for therapeutic intervention. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current AML treatment options related to the mechanism of apoptosis, particularly its mitochondrial pathway, and other promising concepts such as neddylation. It pays particular attention to clinically-relevant aspects of current and future AML treatment approaches, highlighting the molecular basis of individual therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Krawiec
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Strzałka
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Czemerska
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
| | - Aneta Wiśnik
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
| | - Izabela Zawlik
- Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wierzbowska
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Pluta
- Department of Hematology, Medical University of Lodz, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Copernicus Multi-Specialist Oncology and Traumatology Center, 93-513 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
CRL4 CRBN E3 Ligase Complex as a Therapeutic Target in Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184492. [PMID: 36139651 PMCID: PMC9496858 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) are effective in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) and other hematological malignancies. Cereblon (CRBN), a target of IMiDs, forms the CRL4 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex (CRL4CRBN) with DDB1, CUL4A and RBX1. The insight into the molecular mechanism of IMiDs action has advanced dramatically since the identification of cereblon (CRBN) as their direct target. Targeting CRBN by IMiDs modifies CRL4CRBN substrate specificity towards non-physiological protein targets which are subsequently ubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome. To date, IMiDs are the only known group of protein degraders used in clinical practice. This review provides the current state of knowledge about thalidomide and its derivatives’ mechanisms of action, and highlights the future perspectives for targeted protein degraders. Abstract Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy with a recurrent clinical course. The introduction of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) was one of the milestones in MM therapy leading to a significant improvement in patients’ prognosis. Currently, IMiDs are the backbone of MM therapy in newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory settings. It is now known that IMiDs exert their anti-myeloma activity mainly by binding cereblon (CRBN), the substrate receptor protein of the CRL4 E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL4CRBN) complex. By binding CRBN, IMiDs alter its substrate specificity, leading to ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of proteins essential for MM cell survival. Following the success of IMiDs, it is not surprising that the possibility of using the CRL4CRBN complex’s activity to treat MM is being further explored. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about novel players in the MM therapeutic landscape, namely the CRBN E3 ligase modulators (CELMoDs), the next generation of IMiDs with broader biological activity. In addition, we discuss a new strategy of tailored proteolysis called proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) using the CRL4CRBN to degrade typically undruggable proteins, which may have relevance for the treatment of MM and other malignancies in the future.
Collapse
|
33
|
Anwar Z, Ali MS, Galvano A, Perez A, La Mantia M, Bukhari I, Swiatczak B. PROTACs: The Future of Leukemia Therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:851087. [PMID: 36120561 PMCID: PMC9479449 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.851087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The fight to find effective, long-lasting treatments for cancer has led many researchers to consider protein degrading entities. Recent developments in PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) have signified their potential as possible cancer therapies. PROTACs are small molecule, protein degraders that function by hijacking the built-in Ubiquitin-Proteasome pathway. This review mainly focuses on the general design and functioning of PROTACs as well as current advancements in the development of PROTACs as anticancer therapies. Particular emphasis is given to PROTACs designed against various types of Leukemia/Blood malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zubair Anwar
- Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Oral Sciences, Section of Medical Oncology, Uiniversity of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Zubair Anwar, ; Bartlomiej Swiatczak,
| | - Muhammad Shahzad Ali
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonio Galvano
- Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Oral Sciences, Section of Medical Oncology, Uiniversity of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Perez
- Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Oral Sciences, Section of Medical Oncology, Uiniversity of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria La Mantia
- Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Oral Sciences, Section of Medical Oncology, Uiniversity of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ihtisham Bukhari
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bartlomiej Swiatczak
- Department of History of Science and Scientific Archeology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Zubair Anwar, ; Bartlomiej Swiatczak,
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Cai WL, Chen JFY, Chen H, Wingrove E, Kurley SJ, Chan LH, Zhang M, Arnal-Estape A, Zhao M, Balabaki A, Li W, Yu X, Krop ED, Dou Y, Liu Y, Jin J, Westbrook TF, Nguyen DX, Yan Q. Human WDR5 promotes breast cancer growth and metastasis via KMT2-independent translation regulation. eLife 2022; 11:e78163. [PMID: 36043466 PMCID: PMC9584608 DOI: 10.7554/elife.78163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths in women, and there are few effective therapies against this advanced disease. Emerging evidence suggests that key steps of tumor progression and metastasis are controlled by reversible epigenetic mechanisms. Using an in vivo genetic screen, we identified WDR5 as an actionable epigenetic regulator that is required for metastatic progression in models of triple-negative breast cancer. We found that knockdown of WDR5 in breast cancer cells independently impaired their tumorigenic as well as metastatic capabilities. Mechanistically, WDR5 promotes cell growth by increasing ribosomal gene expression and translation efficiency in a KMT2-independent manner. Consistently, pharmacological inhibition or degradation of WDR5 impedes cellular translation rate and the clonogenic ability of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, a combination of WDR5 targeting with mTOR inhibitors leads to potent suppression of translation and proliferation of breast cancer cells. These results reveal novel therapeutic strategies to treat metastatic breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley L Cai
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghUnited States
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | | | - Huacui Chen
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Emily Wingrove
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Sarah J Kurley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Lok Hei Chan
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Meiling Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Anna Arnal-Estape
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Minghui Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Amer Balabaki
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | - Wenxue Li
- Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Yale UniversityWest HavenUnited States
| | - Xufen Yu
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkUnited States
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkUnited States
| | - Ethan D Krop
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University,HoustonUnited States
| | - Yali Dou
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann ArborAnn ArborUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Yansheng Liu
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Yale UniversityWest HavenUnited States
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkUnited States
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkUnited States
| | - Thomas F Westbrook
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Don X Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Internal Medicine (Section of Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine,New HavenUnited States
| | - Qin Yan
- Department of Pathology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Center for Immuno-Oncology, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Fang Y, Wang J, Zhao M, Zheng Q, Ren C, Wang Y, Zhang J. Progress and Challenges in Targeted Protein Degradation for Neurodegenerative Disease Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11454-11477. [PMID: 36006861 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are currently incurable diseases that cause progressive degeneration of nerve cells. Many of the disease-causing proteins of NDs are "undruggable" for traditional small-molecule inhibitors (SMIs). None of the compounds that attenuated the amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation process have entered clinical practice, and many phase III clinical trials of SMIs for Alzheimer's disease (AD) have failed. In recent years, emerging targeted protein degradation (TPD) technologies such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), lysosome-targeting chimaeras (LYTACs), and autophagy-targeting chimeras (AUTACs) with TPD-assistive technologies such as click-formed proteolysis-targeting chimeras (CLIPTACs) and deubiquitinase-targeting chimera (DUBTAC) have developed rapidly. In vitro and in vivo experiments have also confirmed that TPD technology can target the degradation of ND pathogenic proteins, bringing hope for the treatment of NDs. Herein, we review the latest TPD technologies, introduce their targets and technical characteristics, and discuss the emerging TPD technologies with potential in ND research, with the hope of providing a new perspective for the development of TPD technology in the NDs field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingxu Fang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Min Zhao
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qinwen Zheng
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Changyu Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.,Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Current status and future perspectives in targeted therapy of NPM1-mutated AML. Leukemia 2022; 36:2351-2367. [PMID: 36008542 PMCID: PMC9522592 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01666-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) is a nucleus-cytoplasmic shuttling protein which is predominantly located in the nucleolus and exerts multiple functions, including regulation of centrosome duplication, ribosome biogenesis and export, histone assembly, maintenance of genomic stability and response to nucleolar stress. NPM1 mutations are the most common genetic alteration in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), detected in about 30–35% of adult AML and more than 50% of AML with normal karyotype. Because of its peculiar molecular and clinico-pathological features, including aberrant cytoplasmic dislocation of the NPM1 mutant and wild-type proteins, lack of involvement in driving clonal hematopoiesis, mutual exclusion with recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities, association with unique gene expression and micro-RNA profiles and high stability at relapse, NPM1-mutated AML is regarded as a distinct genetic entity in the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of hematopoietic malignancies. Starting from the structure and functions of NPM1, we provide an overview of the potential targeted therapies against NPM1-mutated AML and discuss strategies aimed at interfering with the oligomerization (compound NSC348884) and the abnormal traffic of NPM1 (avrainvillamide, XPO1 inhibitors) as well as at inducing selective NPM1-mutant protein degradation (ATRA/ATO, deguelin, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, imidazoquinoxaline derivatives) and at targeting the integrity of nucleolar structure (actinomycin D). We also discuss the current therapeutic results obtained in NPM1-mutated AML with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax and the preliminary clinical results using menin inhibitors targeting HOX/MEIS1 expression. Finally, we review various immunotherapeutic approaches in NPM1-mutated AML, including immune check-point inhibitors, CAR and TCR T-cell-based therapies against neoantigens created by the NPM1 mutations.
Collapse
|
37
|
Deboever E, Fistrovich A, Hulme C, Dunckley T. The Omnipresence of DYRK1A in Human Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169355. [PMID: 36012629 PMCID: PMC9408930 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing population will challenge healthcare, particularly because the worldwide population has never been older. Therapeutic solutions to age-related disease will be increasingly critical. Kinases are key regulators of human health and represent promising therapeutic targets for novel drug candidates. The dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase (DYRKs) family is of particular interest and, among them, DYRK1A has been implicated ubiquitously in varied human diseases. Herein, we focus on the characteristics of DYRK1A, its regulation and functional role in different human diseases, which leads us to an overview of future research on this protein of promising therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Deboever
- ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (T.D.)
| | - Alessandra Fistrovich
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Division of Drug Discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Christopher Hulme
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Division of Drug Discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Travis Dunckley
- ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Correspondence: (E.D.); (T.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Xi JY, Zhang RY, Chen K, Yao L, Li MQ, Jiang R, Li XY, Fan L. Advances and perspectives of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in drug discovery. Bioorg Chem 2022; 125:105848. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
39
|
Ni Y, Low JT, Silke J, O'Reilly LA. Digesting the Role of JAK-STAT and Cytokine Signaling in Oral and Gastric Cancers. Front Immunol 2022; 13:835997. [PMID: 35844493 PMCID: PMC9277720 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.835997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
When small proteins such as cytokines bind to their associated receptors on the plasma membrane, they can activate multiple internal signaling cascades allowing information from one cell to affect another. Frequently the signaling cascade leads to a change in gene expression that can affect cell functions such as proliferation, differentiation and homeostasis. The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) and the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) are the pivotal mechanisms employed for such communication. When deregulated, the JAK-STAT and the TNF receptor signaling pathways can induce chronic inflammatory phenotypes by promoting more cytokine production. Furthermore, these signaling pathways can promote replication, survival and metastasis of cancer cells. This review will summarize the essentials of the JAK/STAT and TNF signaling pathways and their regulation and the molecular mechanisms that lead to the dysregulation of the JAK-STAT pathway. The consequences of dysregulation, as ascertained from founding work in haematopoietic malignancies to more recent research in solid oral-gastrointestinal cancers, will also be discussed. Finally, this review will highlight the development and future of therapeutic applications which modulate the JAK-STAT or the TNF signaling pathways in cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Ni
- Central Laboratory, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun T Low
- Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - John Silke
- Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Lorraine A O'Reilly
- Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
In Vitro and In Vivo Modeling of Normal and Leukemic Bone Marrow Niches: Cellular Senescence Contribution to Leukemia Induction and Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137350. [PMID: 35806354 PMCID: PMC9266537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence is recognized as a dynamic process in which cells evolve and adapt in a context dependent manner; consequently, senescent cells can exert both beneficial and deleterious effects on their surroundings. Specifically, senescent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) in the bone marrow (BM) have been linked to the generation of a supporting microenvironment that enhances malignant cell survival. However, the study of MSC’s senescence role in leukemia development has been straitened not only by the availability of suitable models that faithfully reflect the structural complexity and biological diversity of the events triggered in the BM, but also by the lack of a universal, standardized method to measure senescence. Despite these constraints, two- and three dimensional in vitro models have been continuously improved in terms of cell culture techniques, support materials and analysis methods; in addition, research on animal models tends to focus on the development of techniques that allow tracking leukemic and senescent cells in the living organism, as well as to modify the available mice strains to generate individuals that mimic human BM characteristics. Here, we present the main advances in leukemic niche modeling, discussing advantages and limitations of the different systems, focusing on the contribution of senescent MSC to leukemia progression.
Collapse
|
41
|
Guenette RG, Yang SW, Min J, Pei B, Potts PR. Target and tissue selectivity of PROTAC degraders. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:5740-5756. [PMID: 35587208 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00200k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies have revolutionized how scientists tackle challenging protein targets deemed undruggable with traditional small molecule inhibitors. Many promising campaigns to inhibit proteins have failed due to factors surrounding inhibition selectivity and targeting of compounds to specific tissues and cell types. One of the major improvements that PROTAC (proteolysis targeting chimera) and molecular glue technology can exert is highly selective control of target inhibition. Multiple studies have shown that PROTACs can gain selectivity for their protein targets beyond that of their parent ligands via optimization of linker length and stabilization of ternary complexes. Due to the bifunctional nature of PROTACs, the tissue selective nature of E3 ligases can be exploited to uncover novel targeting mechanisms. In this review, we provide critical analysis of the recent progress towards making selective PROTAC molecules and new PROTAC technologies that will continue to push the boundaries of achieving selectivity. These efforts have wide implications in the future of treating disease as they will broaden the possible targets that can be addressed by small molecules, like undruggable proteins or broadly active targets that would benefit from degradation in specific tissue types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Seung Wook Yang
- Induced Proximity Platform, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.
| | - Jaeki Min
- Induced Proximity Platform, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.
| | - Baikang Pei
- Genome Analysis Unit, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Park HB, Baek KH. E3 ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes regulating the MAPK signaling pathway in cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188736. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
43
|
Jain P, Wang ML. Mantle cell lymphoma in 2022-A comprehensive update on molecular pathogenesis, risk stratification, clinical approach, and current and novel treatments. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:638-656. [PMID: 35266562 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The field of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) has witnessed remarkable progress due to relentless advances in molecular pathogenesis, prognostication, and newer treatments. MCL consists of a spectrum of clinical subtypes. Rarely, atypical cyclin D1-negative MCL and in situ MCL neoplasia are identified. Prognostication of MCL is further refined by identifying somatic mutations (such as TP53, NSD2, KMT2D), methylation status, chromatin organization pattern, SOX-11 expression, minimal residual disease (MRD), and genomic clusters. Lymphoid tissue microenvironment studies demonstrated the role of B-cell receptor signaling, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), colony-stimulating factor (CSF)-1, the CD70-SOX-11 axis. Molecular mechanism of resistance, mutation dynamics, and pathogenic pathways (B-cell receptor (BCR), oxidative phosphorylation, and MYC) were identified in mediating resistance to various treatments (bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors [ibrutinib, acalabrutinib]. Treatment options range from conventional chemoimmunotherapy and stem cell transplantation (SCT) to targeted therapies against BTK (covalent and noncovalent), Bcl2, ROR1, cellular therapy such as anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor therapy (CAR-T), and most recently bispecific antibodies against CD19 and CD20. MCL patients frequently relapse. Complex pathogenesis and the management of patients with progression after treatment with BTK/Bcl2 inhibitors and CAR-T (triple-resistant MCL) remain a challenge. Next-generation clinical trials incorporating newer agents and concurrent translational and molecular investigations are ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Preetesh Jain
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma. Mantle cell lymphoma center of excellence The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Michael L. Wang
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma. Mantle cell lymphoma center of excellence The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sosič I, Bricelj A, Steinebach C. E3 ligase ligand chemistries: from building blocks to protein degraders. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:3487-3534. [PMID: 35393989 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00148a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), capable of achieving targeted protein degradation, have proven their great therapeutic potential and usefulness as molecular biology tools. These heterobifunctional compounds are comprised of a protein-targeting ligand, an appropriate linker, and a ligand binding to the E3 ligase of choice. A successful PROTAC induces the formation of a ternary complex, leading to the E3 ligase-mediated ubiquitination of the targeted protein and its proteasomal degradation. In over 20 years since the concept was first demonstrated, the field has grown substantially, mainly due to the advancements in the discovery of non-peptidic E3 ligase ligands. Development of small-molecule E3 binders with favourable physicochemical profiles aided the design of PROTACs, which are known for breaking the rules of established guidelines for discovering small molecules. Synthetic accessibility of the ligands and numerous successful applications led to the prevalent use of cereblon and von Hippel-Lindau as the hijacked E3 ligase. However, the pool of over 600 human E3 ligases is full of untapped potential, which is why expanding the artillery of E3 ligands could contribute to broadening the scope of targeted protein degradation. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the chemistry aspect of the PROTAC design process by providing an overview of liganded E3 ligases, their chemistries, appropriate derivatisation, and synthetic approaches towards their incorporation into heterobifunctional degraders. By covering syntheses of both established and underexploited E3 ligases, this review can serve as a chemistry blueprint for PROTAC researchers during their future ventures into the complex field of targeted protein degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izidor Sosič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleša Bricelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Christian Steinebach
- Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
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]
|
46
|
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging therapeutic modality with the potential to tackle disease-causing proteins that have historically been highly challenging to target with conventional small molecules. In the 20 years since the concept of a proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) molecule harnessing the ubiquitin-proteasome system to degrade a target protein was reported, TPD has moved from academia to industry, where numerous companies have disclosed programmes in preclinical and early clinical development. With clinical proof-of-concept for PROTAC molecules against two well-established cancer targets provided in 2020, the field is poised to pursue targets that were previously considered 'undruggable'. In this Review, we summarize the first two decades of PROTAC discovery and assess the current landscape, with a focus on industry activity. We then discuss key areas for the future of TPD, including establishing the target classes for which TPD is most suitable, expanding the use of ubiquitin ligases to enable precision medicine and extending the modality beyond oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig M Crews
- Department of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
BCR-ABL1 Tyrosine Kinase Complex Signaling Transduction: Challenges to Overcome Resistance in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14010215. [PMID: 35057108 PMCID: PMC8780254 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The constitutively active BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase, found in t(9;22)(q34;q11) chromosomal translocation-derived leukemia, initiates an extremely complex signaling transduction cascade that induces a strong state of resistance to chemotherapy. Targeted therapies based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib, bosutinib, and ponatinib, have revolutionized the treatment of BCR-ABL1-driven leukemia, particularly chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, TKIs do not cure CML patients, as some develop TKI resistance and the majority relapse upon withdrawal from treatment. Importantly, although BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase is necessary to initiate and establish the malignant phenotype of Ph-related leukemia, in the later advanced phase of the disease, BCR-ABL1-independent mechanisms are also in place. Here, we present an overview of the signaling pathways initiated by BCR-ABL1 and discuss the major challenges regarding immunologic/pharmacologic combined therapies.
Collapse
|
48
|
Liu Q, Tu G, Hu Y, Jiang Q, Liu J, Lin S, Yu Z, Li G, Wu X, Tang Y, Huang X, Xu J, Liu Y, Wu L. Discovery of BP3 as an efficacious proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) degrader of HSP90 for treating breast cancer. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 228:114013. [PMID: 34864330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.114013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is involved in the stabilization and activation of oncoproteins, rendering it essential for oncogenic transformation. However, the HSP90 inhibitors evaluated to date have not led to the expected effects in cancer therapy. Herein, we systematically described the design, synthesis, and evaluation of HSP90 degraders based upon the proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) strategy. The results showed that the candidate compound 16b (BP3) potently degraded HSP90 and effectively inhibited the growth of human breast cancer cells. When used as a single agent, BP3 led to effective tumor suppression in mice. These findings demonstrate that our HSP90-targeting PROTAC strategy has potential novel applications in breast cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quanyu Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Institute of Materia Medica, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Guihui Tu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Department of Public Technology Service Center, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Qingna Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Jingwen Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Shanshan Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Zelei Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Ge Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Xinhua Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Yuanling Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Xiuwang Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Department of Public Technology Service Center, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Jianhua Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Institute of Materia Medica, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Yang Liu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Department of Pharmacochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Lixian Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Institute of Materia Medica, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University (FMU), Fuzhou, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Schoger E, Lelek S, Panáková D, Zelarayán LC. Tailoring Cardiac Synthetic Transcriptional Modulation Towards Precision Medicine. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:783072. [PMID: 35097003 PMCID: PMC8795974 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.783072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular and genetic differences between individual cells within tissues underlie cellular heterogeneities defining organ physiology and function in homeostasis as well as in disease states. Transcriptional control of endogenous gene expression has been intensively studied for decades. Thanks to a fast-developing field of single cell genomics, we are facing an unprecedented leap in information available pertaining organ biology offering a comprehensive overview. The single-cell technologies that arose aided in resolving the precise cellular composition of many organ systems in the past years. Importantly, when applied to diseased tissues, the novel approaches have been immensely improving our understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of common human diseases. With this information, precise prediction of regulatory elements controlling gene expression upon perturbations in a given cell type or a specific context will be realistic. Simultaneously, the technological advances in CRISPR-mediated regulation of gene transcription as well as their application in the context of epigenome modulation, have opened up novel avenues for targeted therapy and personalized medicine. Here, we discuss the fast-paced advancements during the recent years and the applications thereof in the context of cardiac biology and common cardiac disease. The combination of single cell technologies and the deep knowledge of fundamental biology of the diseased heart together with the CRISPR-mediated modulation of gene regulatory networks will be instrumental in tailoring the right strategies for personalized and precision medicine in the near future. In this review, we provide a brief overview of how single cell transcriptomics has advanced our knowledge and paved the way for emerging CRISPR/Cas9-technologies in clinical applications in cardiac biomedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Schoger
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells”, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sara Lelek
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniela Panáková
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Daniela Panáková
| | - Laura Cecilia Zelarayán
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells”, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Laura Cecilia Zelarayán
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Lv D, Pal P, Liu X, Jia Y, Thummuri D, Zhang P, Hu W, Pei J, Zhang Q, Zhou S, Khan S, Zhang X, Hua N, Yang Q, Arango S, Zhang W, Nayak D, Olsen SK, Weintraub ST, Hromas R, Konopleva M, Yuan Y, Zheng G, Zhou D. Development of a BCL-xL and BCL-2 dual degrader with improved anti-leukemic activity. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6896. [PMID: 34824248 PMCID: PMC8617031 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27210-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) have emerged as an innovative drug development platform. However, most PROTACs have been generated empirically because many determinants of PROTAC specificity and activity remain elusive. Through computational modelling of the entire NEDD8-VHL Cullin RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRLVHL)/PROTAC/BCL-xL/UbcH5B(E2)-Ub/RBX1 complex, we find that this complex can only ubiquitinate the lysines in a defined band region on BCL-xL. Using this approach to guide our development of a series of ABT263-derived and VHL-recruiting PROTACs, we generate a potent BCL-xL and BCL-2 (BCL-xL/2) dual degrader with significantly improved antitumor activity against BCL-xL/2-dependent leukemia cells. Our results provide experimental evidence that the accessibility of lysines on a target protein plays an important role in determining the selectivity and potency of a PROTAC in inducing protein degradation, which may serve as a conceptual framework to guide the future development of PROTACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongwen Lv
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Pratik Pal
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Xingui Liu
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Yannan Jia
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Dinesh Thummuri
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Wanyi Hu
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Jing Pei
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Qi Zhang
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Shuo Zhou
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Sajid Khan
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Xuan Zhang
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Nan Hua
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Qingping Yang
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Sebastian Arango
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Weizhou Zhang
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Digant Nayak
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry & Structure Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA ,grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Mays Cancer Center, the Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Shaun K. Olsen
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry & Structure Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA ,grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Mays Cancer Center, the Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Susan T. Weintraub
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry & Structure Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Robert Hromas
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Mays Cancer Center, the Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- grid.240145.60000 0001 2291 4776Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yaxia Yuan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|