1
|
Su X, Li Y, Ren Y, Cao M, Yang G, Luo J, Hu Z, Deng H, Deng M, Liu B, Yao Z. A new strategy for overcoming drug resistance in liver cancer: Epigenetic regulation. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116902. [PMID: 38870626 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116902] [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: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma has posed significant obstacles to effective treatment. Recent evidence indicates that, in addition to traditional gene mutations, epigenetic recoding plays a crucial role in HCC drug resistance. Unlike irreversible gene mutations, epigenetic changes are reversible, offering a promising avenue for preventing and overcoming drug resistance in liver cancer. This review focuses on various epigenetic modifications relevant to drug resistance in HCC and their underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we introduce current clinical epigenetic drugs and clinical trials of these drugs as regulators of drug resistance in other solid tumors. Although there is no clinical study to prevent the occurrence of drug resistance in liver cancer, the development of liquid biopsy and other technologies has provided a bridge to achieve this goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Su
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic-Splenic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Yuxuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Yupeng Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Mingbo Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Gaoyuan Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Ziyi Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic-Splenic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Haixia Deng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Meihai Deng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic-Splenic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhicheng Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic-Splenic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen Y, Zhu H, Luo Y, Tong S, Liu Y. EZH2: The roles in targeted therapy and mechanisms of resistance in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116624. [PMID: 38670045 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116624] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance presents a formidable challenge in the realm of breast cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), may serve as a key regulator in controlling drug resistance. EZH2 overexpression has been observed in breast cancer and many other malignancies, showing a strong correlation with poor outcomes. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms by which EZH2 regulates drug resistance, with a specific focus on breast cancer, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying molecular processes. Additionally, we will discuss the current strategies and outcomes of targeting EZH2 using both single agents and combination therapies, with the goal of offering improved guidance for the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients who have developed drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yi Luo
- Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Biotheus Inc., Guangdong Province, Zhuhai 519080, PR China.
| | - Shuangmei Tong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mi L, Xing Z, Zhang Y, He T, Su A, Wei T, Li Z, Wu W. Unveiling Gambogenic Acid as a Promising Antitumor Compound: A Review. PLANTA MEDICA 2024; 90:353-367. [PMID: 38295847 DOI: 10.1055/a-2258-6663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Gambogenic acid is a derivative of gambogic acid, a polyprenylated xanthone isolated from Garcinia hanburyi. Compared with the more widely studied gambogic acid, gambogenic acid has demonstrated advantages such as a more potent antitumor effect and less systemic toxicity than gambogic acid according to early investigations. Therefore, the present review summarizes the effectiveness and mechanisms of gambogenic acid in different cancers and highlights the mechanisms of action. In addition, drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability of gambogenic acid and its pharmacokinetic profile are included. Gambogenic acid has been applied to treat a wide range of cancers, such as lung, liver, colorectal, breast, gastric, bladder, and prostate cancers. Gambogenic acid exerts its antitumor effects as a novel class of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitors. It prevents cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis and controlling the cell cycle as well as autophagy. Gambogenic acid also hinders tumor cell invasion and metastasis by downregulating metastasis-related proteins. Moreover, gambogenic acid increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and has shown effects on multidrug resistance in malignancy. This review adds insights for the prevention and treatment of cancers using gambogenic acid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Mi
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhichao Xing
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting He
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Anping Su
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenshuang Wu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shi L, Zhang Q, Zhu S, Tang Q, Chen X, Lan R, Wang N, Zhu Y. Pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 using a covalent inhibitor suppresses human ovarian cancer cell migration and invasion. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:831-841. [PMID: 37199893 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is the cause of poor prognosis in ovarian cancer (OC). Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a histone-lysine N-methyltransferase enzyme, promotes OC cell migration and invasion by regulating the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) and matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP9). Hence, we speculated that EZH2-targeting therapy might suppress OC migration and invasion. In this study, the expression of EZH2, TIMP2, and MMP9 in OC tissues and cell lines was analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and western blotting, respectively. The effects of SKLB-03220, an EZH2 covalent inhibitor, on OC cell migration and invasion were investigated using wound-healing assays, Transwell assays, and immunohistochemistry. TCGA database analysis confirmed that the EZH2 and MMP9 mRNA expression was significantly higher in OC tissues, whereas TIMP2 expression was significantly lower than that in normal ovarian tissues. Moreover, EZH2 negatively correlated with TIMP2 and positively correlated with MMP9 expression. In addition to the anti-tumor activity of SKLB-03220 in a PA-1 xenograft model, immunohistochemistry results showed that SKLB-03220 markedly increased the expression of TIMP2 and decreased the expression of MMP9. Additionally, wound-healing and Transwell assays showed that SKLB-03220 significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of both A2780 and PA-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. SKLB-03220 inhibited H3K27me3 and MMP9 expression and increased TIMP2 expression in PA-1 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that the EZH2 covalent inhibitor SKLB-03220 inhibits metastasis of OC cells by upregulating TIMP2 and downregulating MMP9, and could thus serve as a therapeutic agent for OC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, No. 55, Section 4, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiangsheng Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shirui Zhu
- Department of Encephalopathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qing Tang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Lan
- Department of Encephalopathy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ningyu Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, No. 55, Section 4, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huang Q, Guo K, Ren Y, Tan J, Ren Y, Zhang L, Zheng C, Xu H. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of gambogenic acid derivatives: Unraveling their anti-cancer effects by inducing pyroptosis. Bioorg Chem 2024; 145:107182. [PMID: 38359707 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107182] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Gambogenic acid (GNA), a caged xanthone derived from Garcinia hanburyi, exhibits a wide range of anti-cancer properties. The caged skeleton of GNA serves as the fundamental pharmacophore responsible for its antitumor effects. However, limited exploration has focused on the structural modifications of GNA. This study endeavors to diversify the structure of GNA and enhance its anti-cancer efficacy. Sulfoximines, recognized as pivotal motifs in medicinal chemistry due to their outstanding properties, have featured in several anti-cancer drugs undergoing clinical trials. Accordingly, a series of 33 GNA derivatives combined with sulfoximines were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-cancer effects against MIAPaCa2, MDA-MB-231, and A549 cells in vitro. The activity screening led to the identification of compound 12k, which exhibited the most potent anti-cancer effect. Mechanistic studies revealed that 12k primarily induced pyroptosis in MIAPaCa2 and MDA-MB-231 cells by activating the caspase-3/gasdermin E (GSDME) pathway. These findings suggested that 12k is a promising drug candidate in cancer therapy and highlighted the potential of sulfoximines as a valuable functional group in drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Keke Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yitao Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiaqi Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yi Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Changwu Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Hongxi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Guo Y, Cheng R, Wang Y, Gonzalez ME, Zhang H, Liu Y, Kleer CG, Xue L. Regulation of EZH2 protein stability: new mechanisms, roles in tumorigenesis, and roads to the clinic. EBioMedicine 2024; 100:104972. [PMID: 38244292 PMCID: PMC10835131 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.104972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The importance of EZH2 as a key methyltransferase has been well documented theoretically. Practically, the first EZH2 inhibitor Tazemetostat (EPZ6438), was approved by FDA in 2020 and is used in clinic. However, for most solid tumors it is not as effective as desired and the scope of clinical indications is limited, suggesting that targeting its enzymatic activity may not be sufficient. Recent technologies focusing on the degradation of EZH2 protein have drawn attention due to their potential robust effects. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms that regulate EZH2 protein stability via post-translational modifications (PTMs), mainly including ubiquitination, phosphorylation, and acetylation. In addition, we discuss recent advancements of multiple proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) strategies and the latest degraders that can downregulate EZH2 protein. We aim to highlight future directions to expand the application of novel EZH2 inhibitors by targeting both EZH2 enzymatic activity and protein stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunyun Guo
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Cheng
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Maria E Gonzalez
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Hongshan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Celina G Kleer
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Lixiang Xue
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Center of Basic Medical Research, Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li D, Peng X, Hu Z, Li S, Chen J, Pan W. Small molecules targeting selected histone methyltransferases (HMTs) for cancer treatment: Current progress and novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115982. [PMID: 38056296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) play a critical role in gene post-translational regulation and diverse physiological processes, and are implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Increasing evidences demonstrate that HMTs may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Thus, the development of HMTs inhibitor have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages such as insufficient clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of conventional HMT inhibitors. New technologies and methods are imperative to enhance the anticancer activity of HMT inhibitors. In this review, we first review the structure and biological functions of the several essential HMTs, such as EZH2, G9a, PRMT5, and DOT1L. The internal relationship between these HMTs and cancer is also expounded. Next, we mainly focus on the latest progress in the development of HMT modulators encompassing dual-target inhibitors, targeted protein degraders and covalent inhibitors from perspectives such as rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status. Lastly, we also discuss the challenges and future directions for HMT-based drug discovery for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Shuqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 516000, PR China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yoon H, Rutter JC, Li YD, Ebert BL. Induced protein degradation for therapeutics: past, present, and future. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e175265. [PMID: 38165043 PMCID: PMC10760958 DOI: 10.1172/jci175265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of induced protein degradation by small molecules has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy that is particularly effective in targeting proteins previously considered "undruggable." Thalidomide analogs, employed in the treatment of multiple myeloma, stand as prime examples. These compounds serve as molecular glues, redirecting the CRBN E3 ubiquitin ligase to degrade myeloma-dependency factors, IKZF1 and IKZF3. The clinical success of thalidomide analogs demonstrates the therapeutic potential of induced protein degradation. Beyond molecular glue degraders, several additional modalities to trigger protein degradation have been developed and are currently under clinical evaluation. These include heterobifunctional degraders, polymerization-induced degradation, ligand-dependent degradation of nuclear hormone receptors, disruption of protein interactions, and various other strategies. In this Review, we will provide a concise overview of various degradation modalities, their clinical applications, and potential future directions in the field of protein degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hojong Yoon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Justine C. Rutter
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yen-Der Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Benjamin L. Ebert
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhou B, Wang B, Zou F, Mei H, Liu Q, Qi S, Wang W, Jin R, Wang A, Chen Y, Liu F, Wang W, Liu J, Liu Q. Discovery of dihydropyridinone derivative as a covalent EZH2 degrader. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115825. [PMID: 37826933 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115825] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
EZH2 is overexpressed in multiple types of cancer and high expression level of EZH2 correlates with poor prognosis. Besides the regulation of H3K27 trimethylation, EZH2 itself regulates its downstream proteins in a PRC2- and methylation-independent way. Starting from an approved EZH2 inhibitor EPZ-6438, we used covalent drug design and medicinal chemistry approaches to discover a novel covalent EZH2 degrader 38, which forms a covalent bond with EZH2 Cys663 and showed strong biochemical activities against EZH2 WT and mutants. Compound 38 exhibited potent antiproliferation effects against both B-cell lymphoma and TNBC cell lines by reducing the levels of H3K27me3 and EZH2. The mass spectrometry, washout and competition experiments confirmed the covalent binding of 38 to EZH2. This study demonstrates that covalent EZH2 degraders could provide an opportunity for the development of promising new drug candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhou
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Beilei Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Fengming Zou
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Husheng Mei
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Qingwang Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Shuang Qi
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Wenliang Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Rui Jin
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China
| | - Aoli Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Yongfei Chen
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Feiyang Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Wenchao Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China
| | - Jing Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China.
| | - Qingsong Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Technology, Institute of Health and Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China; Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, PR China; Precision Medicine Research Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China; Primary Cell Engineering Joint Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, 230088, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
VanDyke D, Xu L, Sargunas PR, Gilbreth RN, Baca M, Gao C, Hunt J, Spangler JB. Redirecting the specificity of tripartite motif containing-21 scaffolds using a novel discovery and design approach. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105381. [PMID: 37866632 PMCID: PMC10694607 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hijacking the ubiquitin proteasome system to elicit targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to target and destroy intracellular proteins at the post-translational level. Small molecule-based TPD approaches, such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues, have shown potential, with several agents currently in clinical trials. Biological PROTACs (bioPROTACs), which are engineered fusion proteins comprised of a target-binding domain and an E3 ubiquitin ligase, have emerged as a complementary approach for TPD. Here, we describe a new method for the evolution and design of bioPROTACs. Specifically, engineered binding scaffolds based on the third fibronectin type III domain of human tenascin-C (Tn3) were installed into the E3 ligase tripartite motif containing-21 (TRIM21) to redirect its degradation specificity. This was achieved via selection of naïve yeast-displayed Tn3 libraries against two different oncogenic proteins associated with B-cell lymphomas, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1 (MALT1) and embryonic ectoderm development protein (EED), and replacing the native substrate-binding domain of TRIM21 with our evolved Tn3 domains. The resulting TRIM21-Tn3 fusion proteins retained the binding properties of the Tn3 as well as the E3 ligase activity of TRIM21. Moreover, we demonstrated that TRIM21-Tn3 fusion proteins efficiently degraded their respective target proteins through the ubiquitin proteasome system in cellular models. We explored the effects of binding domain avidity and E3 ligase utilization to gain insight into the requirements for effective bioPROTAC design. Overall, this study presents a versatile engineering approach that could be used to design and engineer TRIM21-based bioPROTACs against therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derek VanDyke
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Linda Xu
- Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul R Sargunas
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ryan N Gilbreth
- Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Manuel Baca
- Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Changshou Gao
- Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - James Hunt
- Biologics Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jamie B Spangler
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Bloomberg∼Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li B, Zhou Q, Wan Q, Qiao X, Chen S, Zhou J, Wuxiao Z, Luo L, Ng SB, Li J, Chng WJ. EZH2 K63-polyubiquitination affecting migration in extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:187. [PMID: 38031139 PMCID: PMC10685657 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01606-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overexpressed EZH2 is oncogenically involved in the pathogenesis of different cancerous contexts including extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL). However, the underlying mechanisms of EZH2 upregulation have not been fully clarified and it is still difficult to target EZH2 in ENKTL. RESULTS Current study identifies an E3 ligase TRIP12 that triggers K63-linked polyubiquitination of EZH2 in ENKTL and unexpectedly, stabilizes EZH2. As determined by gene expression profiling (GEP), TRIP12 and EZH2 levels correlate with each other in ENKTL patient samples. Aided by quantitative mass spectrometry (MS) and follow-up analysis, we identify K634 as the ubiquitination site of EZH2. Further study confirms that TRIP12-mediated EZH2 K634 ubiquitination enhances the interaction between EZH2 and SUZ12 or CDK1 and increases the level of EZH2 T487 phosphorylation. This study further demonstrates the TRIP12-EZH2 signaling might be regulated by cytoplasmic HSP60. Importantly, the TRIP12-EZH2 axis mediates ENKTL cell migration via accelerating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, our study finds out dexamethasone treatment manipulates TRIP12-EZH2 signaling and may represent a novel therapeutic strategy against ENKTL metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, TRIP12 induces K63-linked site-specific polyubiquitination of EZH2 for stabilization, which promotes ENKTL cell migration and could be targeted by dexamethasone treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boheng Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Qidi Zhou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Wan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuan Qiao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shangying Chen
- Bioinformatics Core, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jianbiao Zhou
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhijun Wuxiao
- Department of Hematology, Lymphoma and Myeloma Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Lei Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Siok-Bian Ng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jieping Li
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.
| | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gao M, Li Y, Cao P, Liu H, Chen J, Kang S. Exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting polycomb repressive complex 2 in lung cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1216289. [PMID: 37909018 PMCID: PMC10613995 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1216289] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of lung cancer (LC) is a multifaceted process that is influenced by a variety of factors. Alongside genetic mutations and environmental influences, there is increasing evidence that epigenetic mechanisms play a significant role in the development and progression of LC. The Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), composed of EZH1/2, SUZ12, and EED, is an epigenetic silencer that controls the expression of target genes and is crucial for cell identity in multicellular organisms. Abnormal expression of PRC2 has been shown to contribute to the progression of LC through several pathways. Although targeted inhibition of EZH2 has demonstrated potential in delaying the progression of LC and improving chemotherapy sensitivity, the effectiveness of enzymatic inhibitors of PRC2 in LC is limited, and a more comprehensive understanding of PRC2's role is necessary. This paper reviews the core subunits of PRC2 and their interactions, and outlines the mechanisms of aberrant PRC2 expression in cancer and its role in tumor immunity. We also summarize the important role of PRC2 in regulating biological behaviors such as epithelial mesenchymal transition, invasive metastasis, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, autophagy, and PRC2-mediated resistance to LC chemotherapeutic agents in LC cells. Lastly, we explored the latest breakthroughs in the research and evaluation of medications that target PRC2, as well as the latest findings from clinical studies investigating the efficacy of these drugs in the treatment of various human cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Inner Mongolia Medical University, First Clinical Medical College, Hohhot, China
| | - Yongwen Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Peijun Cao
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shirong Kang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhou W, Feng Y, Lin C, CHAO CK, He Z, Zhao S, Xue J, Zhao X, Cao W. Yin Yang 1-Induced Long Noncoding RNA DUXAP9 Drives the Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Blocking CDK1-Mediated EZH2 Degradation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207549. [PMID: 37401236 PMCID: PMC10477890 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
LncRNAs play a critical role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. However, the function and detailed molecular mechanism of most lncRNAs in OSCC are not fully understood. Here, a novel nuclear-localized lncRNA, DUXAP9 (DUXAP9), that is highly expressed in OSCC is identified. A high level of DUXAP9 is positively associated with lymph node metastasis, poor pathological differentiation, advanced clinical stage, worse overall survival, and worse disease-specific survival in OSCC patients. Overexpression of DUXAP9 significantly promotes OSCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and xenograft tumor growth and metastasis, and upregulates N-cadherin, Vimentin, Ki67, PCNA, and EZH2 expression and downregulates E-cadherin in vitro and in vivo, whereas knockdown of DUXAP9 remarkably suppresses OSCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and xenograft tumor growth in vitro and in vivo in an EZH2-dependent manner. Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is found to activate the transcriptional expression of DUXAP9 in OSCC. Furthermore, DUXAP9 physically interacts with EZH2 and inhibits EZH2 degradation via the suppression of EZH2 phosphorylation, thereby blocking EZH2 translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Thus, DUXAP9 can serve as a promising target for OSCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenkai Zhou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalCollege of StomatologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011China
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| | - Yisheng Feng
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| | - Chengzhong Lin
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
- The 2nd Dental CenterShanghai Ninth People's HospitalCollege of StomatologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineCollege of StomatologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200011China
| | - Chi Kuan CHAO
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| | - Ziqi He
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| | - Shiyao Zhao
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| | - Jieyuan Xue
- Department of CardiologyShanghai Chest HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Xu‐Yun Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell BiologyShanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and InflammationKey Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of the Chinese Ministry of EducationShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalCollege of StomatologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011China
- National Center for StomatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghai Key Laboratory of StomatologyShanghai200011China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lanzi C, Arrighetti N, Pasquali S, Cassinelli G. Targeting EZH2 in SMARCB1-deficient sarcomas: Advances and opportunities to potentiate the efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115727. [PMID: 37541451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare mesechymal malignancies characterized by distintive molecular, histological and clinical features. Many STSs are considered as predominatly epigenetic diseases due to underlying chromatin deregulation. Discovery of deregulated functional antagonism between the chromatin remodeling BRG1/BRM-associated (BAFs) and the histone modifying Polycomb repressor complexes (PRCs) has provided novel actionable targets. In epithelioid sarcoma (ES), extracranial, extrarenal malignant rhabdoid tumors (eMRTs) and synovial sarcoma (SS), the total or partial loss of the BAF core subunit SMARCB1, driven by different alterations, is associated with PRC2 deregulation and dependency on its enzymatic subunit, EZH2. In these SMARCB1-deficient STSs, aberrant EZH2 expression and/or activity emerged as a druggable vulnerability. Although preclinical investigation supported EZH2 targeting as a promising therapeutic option, clinical studies demonstrated a variable response to EZH2 inhibitors. Actually, whereas the clinical benefit recorded in ES patients prompted the FDA approval of the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat, the modest and sporadic responses observed in eMRT and SS patients highlighted the need to deepen mechanistic as well as pharmacological investigations to improve drug effectiveness. We summarize the current knowledge of different mechanisms driving SMARCB1 deficiency and EZH2 deregulation in ES, eMRT and SS along with preclinical and clinical studies of EZH2-targeting agents. Possible implication of the PRC2- and enzymatic-independent functions of EZH2 and of its homolog, EZH1, in the response to anti-EZH2 agents will be discussed together with combinatorial strategies under investigation to improve the efficacy of EZH2 targeting in these tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Lanzi
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Noemi Arrighetti
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Pasquali
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliana Cassinelli
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Amadeo 42, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Liu Y, Yang Q. The roles of EZH2 in cancer and its inhibitors. Med Oncol 2023; 40:167. [PMID: 37148376 PMCID: PMC10162908 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02025-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is encoded by the Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit gene. EZH2 is involved in the cell cycle, DNA damage repair, cell differentiation, autophagy, apoptosis, and immunological modulation. The main function of EZH2 is to catalyze the methylation of H3 histone of H3K27Me3, which inhibits the transcription of target genes, such as tumor suppressor genes. EZH2 also forms complexes with transcriptions factors or directly binds to the promoters of target genes, leading to regulate gene transcriptions. EZH2 has been as a prominent target for cancer therapy and a growing number of potential targeting medicines have been developed. This review summarized the mechanisms that EZH2 regulates gene transcription and the interactions between EZH2 and important intracellular signaling molecules (Wnt, Notch, MEK, Akt) and as well the clinical applications of EZH2-targeted drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuankai Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhu Y, Zhang L, Song X, Zhang Q, Wang T, Xiao H, Yu L. Pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by ZLD1039 suppresses tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 210:115493. [PMID: 36898415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115493] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
The incidence and mortality rate of malignant melanoma are increasing worldwide. Metastasis reduces the efficacy of current melanoma therapies and leads to poor prognosis for patients. EZH2 is a methyltransferase that promotes the proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance of tumor cells by regulating transcriptional activity. EZH2 inhibitors could be effective in melanoma therapies. Herein, we aimed to investigate whether the pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by ZLD1039, a potent and selective S-adenosyl-l-methionine-EZH2 inhibitor, suppresses tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in melanoma cells. Results showed that ZLD1039 selectively reduced H3K27 methylation in melanoma cells by inhibiting EZH2 methyltransferase activity. Additionally, ZLD1039 exerted excellent antiproliferative effects on melanoma cells in 2D and 3D culture systems. Administration of ZLD1039 (100 mg/kg) by oral gavage caused antitumor effects in the A375 subcutaneous xenograft mouse model. RNA sequencing and GSEA revealed that the ZLD1039-treated tumors exhibited changes in the gene sets enriched from the "Cell Cycle" and "Oxidative Phosphorylation", whereas the "ECM receptor interaction" gene set had a negative enrichment score. Mechanistically, ZLD1039 induced G0/G1 phase arrest by upregulating p16 and p27 and inhibiting the functions of the cyclin D1/CDK6 and cyclin E/CDK2 complexes. Moreover, ZLD1039 induced apoptosis in melanoma cells via the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species apoptotic pathway, consistent with the changes in transcriptional signatures. ZLD1039 also exhibited excellent antimetastatic effects on melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Our data highlight that ZLD1039 may be effective against melanoma growth and pulmonary metastasis and thus could serve as a therapeutic agent for melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lidan Zhang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia & Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuejiao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiangsheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongtao Xiao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Luoting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhang Q, Chen X, Cao J, Yang W, Wan G, Feng Q, Zhou S, Yang H, Wang N, Liu Z, Xiao H, Zhu Y, Yu L. Discovery of a Novel Covalent EZH2 Inhibitor Based on Tazemetostat Scaffold for the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1725-1741. [PMID: 36692394 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) is the enzymatic catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which plays an important role in post-translational modifications of histones. In this study, we designed and synthesized a new series EZH2 covalent inhibitors that have rarely been reported. Biochemical studies and mass spectrometry provide information that SKLB-03220 could covalently bind to the S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) pocket of EZH2. Besides, SKLB-03220 was highly potent for EZH2MUT, while exhibiting weak activities against other tested histone methyltransferases (HMTs) and kinases. Moreover, SKLB-03220 displayed noteworthy potency against ovarian cancer cell lines and continuously abolished H3K27me3 after washing out. Furthermore, oral administration of SKLB-03220 significantly inhibited tumor growth in PA-1 xenograft model without obvious adverse effects. Taken together, SKLB-03220 is a potent, selective EZH2 covalent inhibitor with noteworthy anticancer efficacy both in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiangsheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xinyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Jiaying Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Wan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Guoquan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Feng
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu 611130, P. R. China
| | - Shuyan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Hongling Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Ningyu Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest JiaoTong University, Chengdu 611756, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Zhihao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Hongtao Xiao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Luoting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and its highly related homolog EZH1 are considered to be epigenetic silencing factors, and they play key roles in the growth and differentiation of cells as the core components of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). EZH1 and EZH2 are known to have a role in human malignancies, and alterations in these two genes have been implicated in transformation of human malignancies. Inhibition of EZH1/2 has been shown to result in tumor regression in humans and has been studied and evaluated in the preclinical setting and in multiple clinical trials at various levels. Our work thus contributes to the understanding of the relationship between regulatory molecules associated with EZH1/2 proteins and tumor progression, and may provide new insights for mechanism-based EZH1/2-targeted therapy in tumors.
Collapse
|
19
|
Discovery of IHMT-337 as a potent irreversible EZH2 inhibitor targeting CDK4 transcription for malignancies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:18. [PMID: 36642705 PMCID: PMC9841011 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01240-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), an enzymatic subunit of PRC2 complex, plays an important role in tumor development and progression through its catalytic and noncatalytic activities. Overexpression or gain-of-function mutations of EZH2 have been significantly associated with tumor cell proliferation of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). As a result, it has gained interest as a potential therapeutic target. The currently available EZH2 inhibitors, such as EPZ6438 and GSK126, are of benefit for clinical using or reached clinical trials. However, certain cancers are resistant to these enzymatic inhibitors due to its noncatalytic or transcriptional activity through modulating nonhistone proteins. Thus, it may be more effective to synergistically degrade EZH2 in addition to enzymatic inhibition. Here, through a rational design and chemical screening, we discovered a new irreversible EZH2 inhibitor, IHMT-337, which covalently bounds to and degrades EZH2 via the E3 ligase CHIP-mediated ubiquitination pathway. Moreover, we revealed that IHMT-337 affects cell cycle progression in TNBC cells through targeting transcriptional regulating of CDK4, a novel PRC2 complex- and enzymatic activity-independent function of EZH2. More significantly, our compound inhibits both DLBCL and TNBC cell proliferation in different preclinical models in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that in addition to enzymatic inhibition, destroying of EZH2 by IHMT-337 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for TNBC and other malignancies that are independent of EZH2 enzymatic activity.
Collapse
|
20
|
Discovery of cysteine-targeting covalent histone methyltransferase inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 246:115028. [PMID: 36528996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.115028] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-translational methylation of histone lysine or arginine residues by histone methyltransferases (HMTs) plays crucial roles in gene regulation and diverse physiological processes and is implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Therefore, histone methyltransferases have been increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic targets. Consequently, the discovery and development of histone methyltransferase inhibitors have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages of limited clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of HMTs inhibitors. Targeted covalent modification represents a proven strategy for kinase drug development and has gained increasing attention in HMTs drug discovery. In this review, we focus on the discovery, characterization, and biological applications of covalent inhibitors for HMTs with emphasis on advancements in the field. In addition, we identify the challenges and future directions in this fast-growing research area of drug discovery.
Collapse
|
21
|
Vishnubalaji R, Shaath H, Al-Alwan M, Abdelalim EM, Alajez NM. Reciprocal interplays between MicroRNAs and pluripotency transcription factors in dictating stemness features in human cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:1-16. [PMID: 36354097 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The interplay between microRNAs (miRNAs) and pluripotency transcription factors (TFs) orchestrates the acquisition of cancer stem cell (CSC) features during the course of malignant transformation, rendering them essential cancer cell dependencies and therapeutic vulnerabilities. In this review, we discuss emerging themes in tumor heterogeneity, including the clonal evolution and the CSC models and their implications in resistance to cancer therapies, and then provide thorough coverage on the roles played by key TFs in maintaining normal and malignant stem cell pluripotency and plasticity. In addition, we discuss the reciprocal interactions between miRNAs and MYC, OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, and KLF4 pluripotency TFs and their contributions to tumorigenesis. We provide our view on the potential to interfere with key miRNA-TF networks through the use of RNA-based therapeutics as single agents or in combination with other therapeutic strategies, to abrogate the CSC state and render tumor cells more responsive to standard and targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radhakrishnan Vishnubalaji
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hibah Shaath
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Monther Al-Alwan
- Stem Cell and Tissue Re-Engineering Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia; College of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Essam M Abdelalim
- Diabetes Research Center (DRC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar; College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nehad M Alajez
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center (TCIC), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar; College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation (QF), PO Box 34110, Doha, Qatar.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Tao S, Yang L, Wu C, Hu Y, Guo F, Ren Q, Ma L, Fu P. Gambogenic acid alleviates kidney fibrosis via epigenetic inhibition of EZH2 to regulate Smad7-dependent mechanism. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 106:154390. [PMID: 35994849 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetics regulating gene expression plays important role in kidney fibrosis. Natural products originating from diverse sources including plants and microorganisms are capable to influence epigenetic modifications. Gambogenic acid (GNA) is a caged xanthone extracted from gamboge resin, exudation of Garcinia hanburyi Hook.f., and the effect of GNA on kidney fibrosis with its underlying mechanism on epigenetics remains unknown. PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the role of GNA against kidney fibrogenesis by histone methylation mediating gene expression. METHODS Two experimental mice of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and folic acid (FA) were given two dosages of GNA (3 and 6 mg/kg/d). TGF-β1 was used to stimulate mouse tubular epithelial (TCMK-1) cells and siRNAs were transfected to verify the underlying mechanisms of GNA. Histological changes were evaluated by HE, MASSON stainings, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Western blot and qPCR were used to measure protein/gene transcription levels. RESULTS GNA dose-dependently alleviated UUO-induced kidney fibrosis and FA-induced kidney early fibrosis, indicated by the pathology and fibrotic factor changes (α-SMA, collagen I, collagen VI, and fibronectin). Mechanically, GNA reduced enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and H3K27me3, promoted Smad7 transcription, and inhibited TGF-β/Smad3 fibrotic signaling in injured kidneys. Moreover, with TGF-β1-induced EZH2 increasing, GNA suppressed α-SMA, fibronectin and collagen levels in tubular epithelial TCMK-1 cells. Although partially decreasing EZH2, GNA did not influence fibrotic signaling in Smad7 siRNA-transfected TCMK-1 cells. CONCLUSION Epigenetic inhibition of EZH2 by GNA ameliorated kidney fibrogenesis via regulating Smad7-meidated TGF-β/Smad3 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sibei Tao
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lina Yang
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chenzhou Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fan Guo
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qian Ren
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Ping Fu
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Feoli A, Viviano M, Cipriano A, Milite C, Castellano S, Sbardella G. Lysine methyltransferase inhibitors: where we are now. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:359-406. [PMID: 35441141 PMCID: PMC8985178 DOI: 10.1039/d1cb00196e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein lysine methyltransferases constitute a large family of epigenetic writers that catalyse the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine to histone- and non-histone-specific substrates. Alterations in the expression and activity of these proteins have been linked to the genesis and progress of several diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and growing defects, hence they represent interesting targets for new therapeutic approaches. Over the past two decades, the identification of modulators of lysine methyltransferases has increased tremendously, clarifying the role of these proteins in different physio-pathological states. The aim of this review is to furnish an updated outlook about the protein lysine methyltransferases disclosed modulators, reporting their potency, their mechanism of action and their eventual use in clinical and preclinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Feoli
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Monica Viviano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Alessandra Cipriano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Ciro Milite
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Sabrina Castellano
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| | - Gianluca Sbardella
- Department of Pharmacy, Epigenetic Med Chem Lab, University of Salerno via Giovanni Paolo II 132 I-84084 Fisciano SA Italy +39-089-96-9602 +39-089-96-9770
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zeng J, Zhang J, Sun Y, Wang J, Ren C, Banerjee S, Ouyang L, Wang Y. Targeting EZH2 for cancer therapy: From current progress to novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 238:114419. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
25
|
Mirzaei S, Gholami MH, Hushmandi K, Hashemi F, Zabolian A, Canadas I, Zarrabi A, Nabavi N, Aref AR, Crea F, Wang Y, Ashrafizadeh M, Kumar AP. The long and short non-coding RNAs modulating EZH2 signaling in cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:18. [PMID: 35236381 PMCID: PMC8892735 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01235-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a large family of RNA molecules with no capability in encoding proteins. However, they participate in developmental and biological processes and their abnormal expression affects cancer progression. These RNA molecules can function as upstream mediators of different signaling pathways and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is among them. Briefly, EZH2 belongs to PRCs family and can exert functional roles in cells due to its methyltransferase activity. EZH2 affects gene expression via inducing H3K27me3. In the present review, our aim is to provide a mechanistic discussion of ncRNAs role in regulating EZH2 expression in different cancers. MiRNAs can dually induce/inhibit EZH2 in cancer cells to affect downstream targets such as Wnt, STAT3 and EMT. Furthermore, miRNAs can regulate therapy response of cancer cells via affecting EZH2 signaling. It is noteworthy that EZH2 can reduce miRNA expression by binding to promoter and exerting its methyltransferase activity. Small-interfering RNA (siRNA) and short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) are synthetic, short ncRNAs capable of reducing EZH2 expression and suppressing cancer progression. LncRNAs mainly regulate EZH2 expression via targeting miRNAs. Furthermore, lncRNAs induce EZH2 by modulating miRNA expression. Circular RNAs (CircRNAs), like lncRNAs, affect EZH2 expression via targeting miRNAs. These areas are discussed in the present review with a focus on molecular pathways leading to clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Hashemi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, 1417466191, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Zabolian
- Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, 5th Azar Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Golestan, Iran
| | - Israel Canadas
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urological Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Translational Sciences, Xsphera Biosciences Inc., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francesco Crea
- Cancer Research Group-School of Life Health and Chemical Sciences, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Department of Urological Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6, Canada.
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey.
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang Q, Yang H, Feng Q, Cao J, Zhang Y, Li L, Yu L. Focus on the classical and non-classical functions of EZH2: Guide the development of inhibitors and degraders. Pharmacol Res 2022; 178:106159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
27
|
Wei L, Wang M, Wang Q, Han Z. Dual targeting, a new strategy for novel PARP inhibitor discovery. Drug Discov Ther 2022; 15:300-309. [PMID: 35034923 DOI: 10.5582/ddt.2021.01100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
As a hallmark for cancer treatment, PARP inhibitors can effectively kill tumor cells with a mechanism termed as synthetic lethality, and are used to treat various cancers including ovarian, breast, prostate, pancreatic and others with DNA repair defects. However, along with the clinical trials progressing, the limitations of PARP-1 inhibitors became apparent such as limited activity and indications. Studies have shown that a molecule that is able to simultaneously restrict two or more targets involving in tumors is more effective in preventing and treating cancers due to the enhancing synergies. In order to make up for the shortcomings of PARP inhibitors, reduce the development cost and overcome the pharmacokinetic defects, multiple works were carried out to construct dual targeting PARP inhibitors for cancer therapy. Herein, they were summarized briefly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Meizhi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Qiaoyun Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiwu Han
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Inhibition of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP47 as a novel targeted therapy for hematologic malignancies expressing mutant EZH2. Leukemia 2022; 36:1048-1057. [PMID: 35034955 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01494-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Activating mutations in EZH2, the catalytic component of PRC2, promote cell proliferation, tumorigenesis, and metastasis through enzymatic or non-enzymatic activity. The EZH2-Y641 gain-of-function mutation is one of the most significant in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Although EZH2 kinase inhibitors, such as EPZ-6438, provide clinical benefit, certain cancer cells are resistant to the enzymatic inhibition of EZH2 because of the inability to functionally target mutant EZH2, or because of cells' dependence on the non-histone methyltransferase activity of EZH2. Consequently, destroying mutant EZH2 protein may be more effective in targeting EZH2 mutant cancers that are dependent on the non-catalytic activity of EZH2. Here, using extensive selectivity profiling, combined with genetic and animal model studies, we identified USP47 as a novel regulator of mutant EZH2. Inhibition of USP47 would be anticipated to block the function of mutated EZH2 through induction of EZH2 degradation by promoting its ubiquitination. Moreover, targeting of USP47 leads to death of mutant EZH2-positive cells in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, we propose targeting USP47 with a small molecule inhibitor as a novel potential therapy for DLBCL and other hematologic malignancies characterized by mutant EZH2 expression.
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhang Q, Chen X, Hu X, Duan X, Wan G, Li L, Feng Q, Zhang Y, Wang N, Yu L. Covalent inhibitors of EZH2: Design, synthesis and evaluation. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112617. [PMID: 34998031 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The histone lysine methyltransferase EZH2 has been implicated as a key component in cancer development. Up to date, there are only a few EZH2 covalent inhibitors. In this study, a new series of 3-acrylamido-2-methyl-N-((2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-3-yl) methyl) benzamide derivatives were designed, synthesized, and demonstrated to act as EZH2 covalent inhibitors, among which SKLB-03176 was the most potent compound. SAM competition experiments, mass spectrometry, and washing-out assays proved that SKLB-03176 could covalently bind to the SAM pocket of EZH2. Remarkably, SKLB-03176 exhibited weak activity against other targets, such as 5 histone methyltransferases and more than 30 kinases. Besides, it could inhibit the activity of a variety of EZH2 mutants and significantly inhibit the expression of H3K27Me3 in cells. Furthermore, SKLB-03176 showed no cytotoxicity to normal cells. Our data suggested that SKLB-03176 could be used as a promising lead compound for the development of new EZH2 covalent inhibitors and a valuable chemical tool to study the biological functions of EZH2 or PRC2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiangsheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xinyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xianjie Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Guoquan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Lu Li
- Clinical Trial Center, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Qiang Feng
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Yiqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Ningyu Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest JiaoTong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611756, PR China.
| | - Luoting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, 17#3rd Section, Ren Min South Road, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
RKIP Pleiotropic Activities in Cancer and Inflammatory Diseases: Role in Immunity. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246247. [PMID: 34944867 PMCID: PMC8699197 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The human body consists of tissues and organs formed by cells. In each cell there is a switch that allows the cell to divide or not. In contrast, cancer cells have their switch on which allow them to divide and invade other sites leading to death. Over two decades ago, Doctor Kam Yeung, University of Toledo, Ohio, has identified a factor (RKIP) that is responsible for the on/off switch which functions normally in healthy tissues but is inactive or absent in cancers. Since this early discovery, many additional properties have been ascribed to RKIP including its role in inhibiting cancer metastasis and resistance to therapeutics and its role in modulating the normal immune response. This review describes all of the above functions of RKIP and suggesting therapeutics to induce RKIP in cancers to inhibit their growth and metastases as well as inhibit its activity to treat non-cancerous inflammatory diseases. Abstract Several gene products play pivotal roles in the induction of inflammation and the progression of cancer. The Raf kinase inhibitory protein (RKIP) is a cytosolic protein that exerts pleiotropic activities in such conditions, and thus regulates oncogenesis and immune-mediated diseases through its deregulation. Herein, we review the general properties of RKIP, including its: (i) molecular structure; (ii) involvement in various cell signaling pathways (i.e., inhibition of the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway; the NF-kB pathway; GRK-2 or the STAT-3 pathway; as well as regulation of the GSK3Beta signaling; and the spindle checkpoints); (iii) regulation of RKIP expression; (iv) expression’s effects on oncogenesis; (v) role in the regulation of the immune system to diseases (i.e., RKIP regulation of T cell functions; the secretion of cytokines and immune mediators, apoptosis, immune check point inhibitors and RKIP involvement in inflammatory diseases); and (vi) bioinformatic analysis between normal and malignant tissues, as well as across various immune-related cells. Overall, the regulation of RKIP in different cancers and inflammatory diseases suggest that it can be used as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of these diseases.
Collapse
|
31
|
Liu Z, Jia Y, Guo Y, Wang H, Fu R. Role of EZH2 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and immune-cancer interactions. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 169:103547. [PMID: 34843930 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, methylation modification has been determined to be vital for the biological regulation of normal cells, tumor cells, and tumor microenvironment immune cells. Enhancer of zeste homology 2 (EZH2), a component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), catalyzes the trimethylation of the downstream gene in the tri-methylates histone three lysine 27 (H3K27me3) position, which causes chromatin pyknosis, and thus, silences the expression of related genes. In this paper, we reviewed the role of EZH2 in regulating bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell differentiation and the immune cell function in tumor microenvironment, summarized all types of existing EZH2 inhibitors and the main clinical trials, and proposed relevant ideas for potential clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyun Liu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, PR China.
| | - Yue Jia
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, PR China.
| | - Yixuan Guo
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, PR China.
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, PR China.
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kumar S, Basu M, Ghosh MK. Chaperone-assisted E3 ligase CHIP: A double agent in cancer. Genes Dis 2021; 9:1521-1555. [PMID: 36157498 PMCID: PMC9485218 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The carboxy-terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP) is a ubiquitin ligase and co-chaperone belonging to Ubox family that plays a crucial role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis by switching the equilibrium of the folding-refolding mechanism towards the proteasomal or lysosomal degradation pathway. It links molecular chaperones viz. HSC70, HSP70 and HSP90 with ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS), acting as a quality control system. CHIP contains charged domain in between N-terminal tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) and C-terminal Ubox domain. TPR domain interacts with the aberrant client proteins via chaperones while Ubox domain facilitates the ubiquitin transfer to the client proteins for ubiquitination. Thus, CHIP is a classic molecule that executes ubiquitination for degradation of client proteins. Further, CHIP has been found to be indulged in cellular differentiation, proliferation, metastasis and tumorigenesis. Additionally, CHIP can play its dual role as a tumor suppressor as well as an oncogene in numerous malignancies, thus acting as a double agent. Here, in this review, we have reported almost all substrates of CHIP established till date and classified them according to the hallmarks of cancer. In addition, we discussed about its architectural alignment, tissue specific expression, sub-cellular localization, folding-refolding mechanisms of client proteins, E4 ligase activity, normal physiological roles, as well as involvement in various diseases and tumor biology. Further, we aim to discuss its importance in HSP90 inhibitors mediated cancer therapy. Thus, this report concludes that CHIP may be a promising and worthy drug target towards pharmaceutical industry for drug development.
Collapse
|
33
|
Ding Z, Li Y, Tang Z, Song X, Jing F, Wu H, Lu B. Role of gambogenic acid in regulating PI3K/Akt/NF-kβ signaling pathways in rat model of acute hepatotoxicity. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2021; 85:520-527. [PMID: 33624779 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbaa039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the protective effect of gambogenic acid (GA) in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity in rat models. GA (10 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneal (i.p.) to rats for 7 consecutive days followed by APAP (500 mg/kg) single dose (i.p.) on the final day after GA administration. The levels of MDA, GSH, SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, ALP, AST, ALT, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), apoptosis markers (caspase-3 and -9, Bax, Bcl-2), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were evaluated. Results exhibited protective effects of GA by inhibiting inflammation, preventing oxidative stress and apoptosis in APAP-induced liver. Histopathological changes caused by APAP were attenuated, protein expressions of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) were upregulated, and nuclear factor-kappa β (NF-kβ) was downregulated by GA. In summary, GA significantly exerted anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity potentially through regulation of PI3K/Akt and NF-kβ signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyang Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Emergency, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhangfeng Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyi Song
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fa Jing
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haotian Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bei Lu
- Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tu Y, Sun Y, Qiao S, Luo Y, Liu P, Jiang ZX, Hu Y, Wang Z, Huang P, Wen S. Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of VHL-Based EZH2 Degraders to Enhance Therapeutic Activity against Lymphoma. J Med Chem 2021; 64:10167-10184. [PMID: 34196564 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Traditional EZH2 inhibitors are developed to suppress the enzymatic methylation activity, and they may have therapeutic limitations due to the nonenzymatic functions of EZH2 in cancer development. Here, we report proteolysis-target chimera (PROTAC)-based EZH2 degraders to target the whole EZH2 in lymphoma. Two series of EZH2 degraders were designed and synthesized to hijack E3 ligase systems containing either von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) or cereblon (CRBN), and some VHL-based compounds were able to mediate EZH2 degradation. Two best degraders, YM181 and YM281, induced robust cell viability inhibition in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and other subtypes of lymphomas, outperforming a clinically used EZH2 inhibitor EPZ6438 (tazemetostat) that was only effective against DLBCL. The EZH2 degraders displayed promising antitumor activities in lymphoma xenografts and patient-derived primary lymphoma cells. Our study demonstrates that EZH2 degraders have better therapeutic activity than EZH2 inhibitors, which may provide a potential anticancer strategy to treat lymphoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yameng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China.,The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Shuang Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yao Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Panpan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Zhong-Xing Jiang
- The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yumin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Zifeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Peng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Shijun Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou 510060, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhong L, Li Y, Xiong L, Wang W, Wu M, Yuan T, Yang W, Tian C, Miao Z, Wang T, Yang S. Small molecules in targeted cancer therapy: advances, challenges, and future perspectives. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:201. [PMID: 34054126 PMCID: PMC8165101 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00572-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 525] [Impact Index Per Article: 175.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the advantages in efficacy and safety compared with traditional chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapeutic drugs have become mainstream cancer treatments. Since the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib was approved to enter the market by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001, an increasing number of small-molecule targeted drugs have been developed for the treatment of malignancies. By December 2020, 89 small-molecule targeted antitumor drugs have been approved by the US FDA and the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China. Despite great progress, small-molecule targeted anti-cancer drugs still face many challenges, such as a low response rate and drug resistance. To better promote the development of targeted anti-cancer drugs, we conducted a comprehensive review of small-molecule targeted anti-cancer drugs according to the target classification. We present all the approved drugs as well as important drug candidates in clinical trials for each target, discuss the current challenges, and provide insights and perspectives for the research and development of anti-cancer drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Yuan
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenyu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuang Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengyong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Li F, Liang Y, Wang M, Xu X, Zhao F, Wang X, Sun Y, Chen W. Multifunctional nanoplatforms as cascade-responsive drug-delivery carriers for effective synergistic chemo-photodynamic cancer treatment. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:140. [PMID: 34001157 PMCID: PMC8130269 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00876-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synergistic chemo-photodynamic therapy has garnered attention in the field of cancer treatment. Here, a pH cascade-responsive micellar nanoplatform with nucleus-targeted ability, for effective synergistic chemo-photodynamic cancer treatment, was fabricated. In this micellar nanoplatform, 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin (Por), a photodynamic therapy (PDT) agent was utilized for carrying the novel anticancer drug GNA002 to construct a hydrophobic core, and cyclic RGD peptide (cRGD)-modified polyethylene glycol (PEG) (cRGD-PEG) connected the cell-penetrating peptide hexaarginine (R6) through a pH-responsive hydrazone bond (cRGD-PEG-N = CH-R6) to serve as a hydrophilic shell for increasing blood circulation time. After passively accumulating in tumor sites, the self-assembled GNA002-loaded nanoparticles were actively internalized into cancer cells via the cRGD ligands. Once phagocytosed by lysosomes, the acidity-triggered detachment of the cRGD-PEG shell led to the formation of R6-coated secondary nanoparticles and subsequent R6-mediated nucleus-targeted drug delivery. Combined with GNA002-induced nucleus-specific chemotherapy, reactive oxygen species produced by Por under 532-nm laser irradiation achieved a potent synergistic chemo-photodynamic cancer treatment. Moreover, our in vitro and in vivo anticancer investigations revealed high cancer-suppression efficacy of this ideal multifunctional nanoplatform, indicating that it could be a promising candidate for synergistic anticancer therapy.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Miaochen Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Fen Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, 266021, China.
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Targeting epigenetic modulation of cholesterol synthesis as a therapeutic strategy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:482. [PMID: 33986254 PMCID: PMC8119982 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03760-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The histone methyltransferase EZH2 silences gene expression via H3 lysine 27 trimethylation and has been recognized as an important antitumour therapeutic target. However, the clinical application of existing EZH2 inhibitors is not satisfactory for the treatment of solid tumours. To discover novel strategies against head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), we performed genomics, metabolomics and RNA omics studies in HNSCC cells treated with EZH2 inhibitors. It was found that EZH2 inhibitors strongly induced the expression of genes in cholesterol synthesis. Through extensive drug screening we found that inhibition of squalene epoxidase (a key enzyme of endogenous cholesterol synthesis) synergistically increased the squalene content and enhanced the sensitivity of HNSCC cells to EZH2 inhibitors. Our findings provide an experimental and theoretical basis for the development of new combinations of EZH2 inhibitors to treat HNSCC.
Collapse
|
38
|
Li X, Gera L, Zhang S, Chen Y, Lou L, Wilson LM, Xie ZR, Sautto G, Liu D, Danaher A, Mamouni K, Yang Y, Du Y, Fu H, Kucuk O, Osunkoya AO, Zhou J, Wu D. Pharmacological inhibition of noncanonical EED-EZH2 signaling overcomes chemoresistance in prostate cancer. Theranostics 2021; 11:6873-6890. [PMID: 34093859 PMCID: PMC8171087 DOI: 10.7150/thno.49235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Chemoresistance is a major obstacle in prostate cancer (PCa) treatment. We sought to understand the underlying mechanism of PCa chemoresistance and discover new treatments to overcome docetaxel resistance. Methods: We developed a novel phenotypic screening platform for the discovery of specific inhibitors of chemoresistant PCa cells. The mechanism of action of the lead compound was investigated using computational, molecular and cellular approaches. The in vivo toxicity and efficacy of the lead compound were evaluated in clinically-relevant animal models. Results: We identified LG1980 as a lead compound that demonstrates high selectivity and potency against chemoresistant PCa cells. Mechanistically, LG1980 binds embryonic ectoderm development (EED), disrupts the interaction between EED and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), thereby inducing the protein degradation of EZH2 and inhibiting the phosphorylation and activity of EZH2. Consequently, LG1980 targets a survival signaling cascade consisting of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (SKP2), ATP binding cassette B 1 (ABCB1) and survivin. As a lead compound, LG1980 is well tolerated in mice and effectively suppresses the in vivo growth of chemoresistant PCa and synergistically enhances the efficacy of docetaxel in xenograft models. Conclusions: These results indicate that pharmacological inhibition of EED-EZH2 interaction is a novel strategy for the treatment of chemoresistant PCa. LG1980 and its analogues have the potential to be integrated into standard of care to improve clinical outcomes in PCa patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Lajos Gera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shumin Zhang
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Lou
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Marie Wilson
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Zhong-Ru Xie
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Giuseppe Sautto
- Center for Vaccines and Immunology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | | | - Alira Danaher
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kenza Mamouni
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Yang Yang
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuhong Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, and Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Haian Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, and Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Omer Kucuk
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adeboye O. Osunkoya
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Daqing Wu
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Molecular Oncology and Biomarkers Program, Georgia Cancer Center; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
- Department of Urology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- MetCure Therapeutics LLC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhang Q, Hu X, Li L, Zhang L, Wan G, Feng Q, Zhu Y, Wang N, Liu Z, Yu L. The discovery of SKLB-0335 as a paralog-selective EZH2 covalent inhibitor. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:3006-3009. [PMID: 33623946 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc04670a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
By targeting the unique Cys663 of EZH2, SKLB-0335 displays high paralog-selectivity on EZH2. Biochemical studies show that SKLB-0335 can covalently bind to EZH2 at its S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) pocket and inhibit H3K27Me3. SKLB-0335 could be an effective chemical probe with which to further investigate the specific biological functions of EZH2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiangsheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Yu Q, Du Y, Wang S, Zheng X. LncRNA PART1 promotes cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma by blocking EZH2 degradation. J Biochem 2021; 169:721-730. [PMID: 33725092 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvab026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been considered as novel regulators in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) can act as an oncogene in OSCC. This study intended to investigate whether lncRNA PART1 can exert its role in OSCC by regulating EZH2. The expression of PART1 in OSCC samples, tumors tissues, or OSCC cell lines was detected by qRT-PCR. The proliferation and apoptosis of OSCC cells were detected by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The expression of PART1 and EZH2 were highly expressed in clinical OSCC tumors and cell lines. The expression level of PART1 was positively correlated to the size, clinical stage, and node metastasis of OSCC patients. Functionally, PART1 knockdown inhibited proliferation and facilitated apoptosis of OSCC cells. Mechanically, FUS interacted with PART1 and EZH2. Additionally, PART1 knockdown reduced the mRNA expression of EZH2, which was offset by FUS overexpression. The overexpression of FUS abrogated the effects of PART1 silence on proliferation and apoptosis of OSCC cells. The in vivo experiment revealed that PART1 knockdown inhibited tumor growth of OSCC cells in nude mice. This study indicated that PART1 exerts a carcinogenic role in OSCC by enhancing the stability of EZH2 protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiongqiong Yu
- Department of Oral Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yajing Du
- Department of Oral Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suping Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaofei Zheng
- Department of Oral Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Li F, Xu X, Liang Y, Li Y, Wang M, Zhao F, Wang X, Sun Y, Chen W. Nuclear-targeted nanocarriers based on pH-sensitive amphiphiles for enhanced GNA002 delivery and chemotherapy. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:4774-4784. [PMID: 33576757 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr07239g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
GNA002, a novel EZH2 inhibitor, exhibits significant anticancer efficiency in solid malignant tumor therapy; however, its poor water solubility and low enrichment at tumor sites limit its clinical application and translation. In this study, an original pH-sensitive nanocarrier (cyclo (RGDyCSH) (cRGD)-poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG)-hydrazine (Hyd)-hexa-arginine (R6)-stearic acid (SA)) was designed to precisely deliver GNA002 into the nuclei of cancer cells. The PEG-modified hydrophilic shell of the spherical GNA002-loaded nanoparticles with a mean size of 143.13 ± 0.20 nm effectively facilitated the passive target of tumor tissues and prolonged the blood circulation time. Meanwhile, cRGD was used as the active targeting ligand, which promoted the accumulation of the nanoparticles in cancer cells via ανβ3-receptor-mediated endocytosis. Furthermore, the acidic environment of lysosomes triggered the rupture of the pH-sensitive hydrazine bond and the rapid formation of penetrating peptide R6-shelled secondary nanoparticles, thus enabling the lysosomal escape of the nanoparticles and the ultimate R6-mediated nuclear-targeted delivery of GNA002. Consequently, the nuclear-enriched GNA002 effectively enhanced the cytotoxicity against cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo, thus providing an original and promising drug delivery system for the targeted delivery of GNA002.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, 266021, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Miaochen Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Fen Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, 266021, China.
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Zhang Y, Rong D, Li B, Wang Y. Targeting Epigenetic Regulators with Covalent Small-Molecule Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7900-7925. [PMID: 33599482 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression plays a critical role in various physiological processes, and epigenetic dysregulation is implicated in a number of diseases, prominently including cancer. Epigenetic regulators have been validated as potential therapeutic targets, and significant progress has been made in the discovery and development of epigenetic-based inhibitors. However, successful epigenetic drug discovery is still facing challenges, including moderate selectivity, limited efficacy, and acquired drug resistance. Inspired by the advantages of covalent small-molecule inhibitors, targeted covalent inhibition has attracted increasing interest in epigenetic drug discovery. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the structure-based design and characterization of covalent inhibitors targeting epigenetic writers, readers, and erasers and highlight their potential benefits in enhancing selectivity across the enzyme family and improving in vivo efficacy. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities of covalent small-molecule inhibitors and hope to shed light on future epigenetic drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Deqin Rong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuanxiang Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Fang N, Li P. O-linked N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase OGT inhibits diabetic nephropathy by stabilizing histone methyltransferases EZH2 via the HES1/PTEN axis. Life Sci 2021; 274:119226. [PMID: 33609540 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND O-linked N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (OGT) is involved in diabetes-related diseases including diabetic nephropathy (DN), and responsible for O-GlcNAcylation. Moreover, O-GlcNAcylation and OGT could be induced by high glucose. Thus, we sought to explore the molecular mechanism of OGT in DN. METHODS Loss- and gain-functions were conducted to determine the roles of OGT, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1) and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) in the viability, cell cycle and fibrosis of mesangial cells (MCs), followed by the assessment using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, and Western blot assay (fibrosis-related proteins). The interaction between OGT and EZH2 and the effect on EZH2 glycosylation were verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down assays. EZH2 stability was checked by treatment with cycloheximide. RESULTS Expression of OGT was repressed in the DN mice and high glucose-treated MCs. Elevated OGT suppressed viability of high glucose-treated MCs, blocked proliferation characterized by repressed cyclin D1, but enhanced p21 levels, and inhibited fibrosis evidenced by reduced levels of fibronectin (FN) and collagen-4 (col-4). OGT interacted with EZH2 and promoted its glycosylation thus stabilizing the EZH2. EZH2 overexpression enhanced the enrichment of EZH2 and histone H3 Lys27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) in the HES1 promoter. HES1 was upregulated and PTEN was downregulated in DN mice. Transduction of lentivirus vector containing overexpression (oe)-OGT alleviated renal injury in DN mice. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, OGT stabilizes histone methyltransferases EZH2 to regulate HES1/PTEN thus inhibiting DN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Fang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan 250022, PR China.
| | - Ping Li
- Special Inspection Section, The Fifth People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan 250022, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Dockerill M, Gregson C, O' Donovan DH. Targeting PRC2 for the treatment of cancer: an updated patent review (2016 - 2020). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2021; 31:119-135. [PMID: 33103538 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2021.1841167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PRC2 is a histone methyltransferase complex associated with several cancer types. Tazemetostat was recently approved as the first inhibitor targeting the catalytic subunit EZH2 and several other EZH2 inhibitors are now under clinical evaluation. Beyond EZH2, researchers have also explored other approaches including PRC2 activators, dual agents inhibiting both EZH1 and EZH2, allosteric inhibitors binding to EED, and compounds which induce the degradation of PRC2 constituent proteins. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of anticancer therapies targeting PRC2 during the period 2016-2020 including clinical trials, patents and the scientific literature. EXPERT OPINION The approval of tazemetostat marks the clinical validation of EZH2 for the treatment of cancer. Despite this success many questions remain; for instance, tazemetostat was briefly placed on clinical hold for safety concerns, while another EZH2 inhibitor (GSK126) demonstrated insufficient efficacy during a Phase I/II trial. It is important to understand these risks as PRC2 therapies progress through clinic evaluation. Alternative approaches to target PRC2 may offer distinct advantages over the inhibition of EZH2, including the potential to overcome EZH2 resistance mutations. However, these emerging modalities may also incur new challenges as they progress toward the clinic. Nonetheless, the diversity of agents under development represents a wealth of therapeutic options for future patients.
Collapse
|
45
|
Li Z, Li M, Wang D, Hou P, Chen X, Chu S, Chai D, Zheng J, Bai J. Post-translational modifications of EZH2 in cancer. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:143. [PMID: 33308321 PMCID: PMC7731458 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00505-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), as a main component of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2, catalyzes histone H3K27me3 to silence its target gene expression. EZH2 upregulation results in cancer development and poor prognosis of cancer patients. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are important biological events in cancer progression. PTMs regulate protein conformation and diversity functions. Recently, mounting studies have demonstrated that EZH2 stability, histone methyltransferase activity, localization, and binding partners can be regulated by PTMs, including phosphorylation, O-GlcNAcylation, acetylation, methylation and ubiquitination. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of the EZH2-PTMs and whether other types of PTMs occur in EZH2 remain largely unclear. This review presents an overview of different roles of EZH2 modification and EZH2-PTMs crosstalk during tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. We also discussed the therapeutic potential of targeting EZH2 modifications for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongwei Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Minle Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Diandian Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Pingfu Hou
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xintian Chen
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Sufang Chu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Dafei Chai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Jin Bai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, 84 West Huaihai Road, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chen J, Xu X, Li Y, Li F, Zhang J, Xu Q, Chen W, Wei Y, Wang X. Kdm6a suppresses the alternative activation of macrophages and impairs energy expenditure in obesity. Cell Death Differ 2020; 28:1688-1704. [PMID: 33303977 PMCID: PMC8167088 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-00694-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone lysine demethylase 6a (Kdm6a) mediates the removal of repressive trimethylation from histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) to activate target gene expression. Obesity is associated with metabolic inflammation, and adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) are key players orchestrating metabolic inflammation. However, it is still unclear whether the Kdm6a pathway in ATMs regulates energy homeostasis. Here, we identified Kdm6a as a critical epigenetic switch that modulates macrophage polarisation and further disrupts energy balance. Myeloid-specific Kdm6a knockout in Kdm6aF/Y;Lyz2-Cre mice significantly reversed the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced M1–M2 imbalance in white adipose tissue (WAT) and blocked HFD-induced obesity. The brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity, WAT browning and energy expenditure were significantly increased in Kdm6aF/Y;Lyz2-Cre mice. Furthermore, Kdm6a regulated the Ire1α expression in a demethylase activity-dependent manner and augmented the M2 polarisation of macrophages. Macrophage with higher Kdm6a significantly promotes adipogenesis in white adipocyte and inhibits thermogenesis in beige adipocytes. These results suggest that the Kdm6a in macrophages drives obesity and metabolic syndrome by impairing BAT activity and WAT differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qin Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yan Wei
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Martin MC, Zeng G, Yu J, Schiltz GE. Small Molecule Approaches for Targeting the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) in Cancer. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15344-15370. [PMID: 33283516 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is composed of three core subunits, enhancer of zeste 2 (EZH2), embryonic ectoderm development (EED), and suppressor of zeste 12 (SUZ12), along with a number of accessory proteins. It is the key enzymatic protein complex that catalyzes histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27) methylation to mediate epigenetic silencing of target genes. PRC2 thus plays essential roles in maintaining embryonic stem cell identity and in controlling cellular differentiation. Studies in the past decade have reported frequent overexpression or mutation of PRC2 in various cancers including prostate cancer and lymphoma. Aberrant PRC2 function has been extensively studied and proven to contribute to a large number of abnormal cellular processes, including those that lead to uncontrolled proliferation and tumorigenesis. Significant efforts have recently been made to develop small molecules targeting PRC2 function for potential use as anticancer therapeutics. In this review, we describe recent approaches to identify and develop small molecules that target PRC2. These various strategies include the inhibition of the function of individual PRC2 core proteins, the disruption of PRC2 complex formation, and the degradation of its subunits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Cynthia Martin
- Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Guihua Zeng
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Jindan Yu
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Gary E Schiltz
- Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is enzymatic catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that can alter downstream target genes expression by trimethylation of Lys-27 in histone 3 (H3K27me3). EZH2 could also regulate gene expression in ways besides H3K27me3. Functions of EZH2 in cells proliferation, apoptosis, and senescence have been identified. Its important roles in the pathophysiology of cancer are now widely concerned. Therefore, targeting EZH2 for cancer therapy is a hot research topic now and different types of EZH2 inhibitors have been developed. In this review, we summarize the structure and action modes of EZH2, focusing on up-to-date findings regarding the role of EZH2 in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, metabolism, drug resistance, and immunity regulation. Furtherly, we highlight the advance of targeting EZH2 therapies in experiments and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Duan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenfang Du
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijian Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wu K, Jiang Y, Zhou W, Zhang B, Li Y, Xie F, Zhang J, Wang X, Yan M, Xu Q, Ren Z, Chen W, Cao W. Long Noncoding RNA RC3H2 Facilitates Cell Proliferation and Invasion by Targeting MicroRNA-101-3p/EZH2 Axis in OSCC. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 20:97-110. [PMID: 32163895 PMCID: PMC7066035 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In our previous studies, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been proven to be a key oncogenic driver in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the regulatory mechanisms on EZH2 remain poorly understood in OSCC. Here, through multi-transcriptomics, bioinformatics analysis, and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the co-expression network of long noncoding RNA RC3H2 (RC3H2), microRNA-101-3p (miR-101-3p), and EZH2 were screened and validated as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism in OSCC. Silencing of RC3H2 inhibited OSCC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in vitro and reduced the expression of EZH2 and H3K27Me3, whereas RC3H2 overexpression significantly promoted OSCC cell growth, colony formation, migration, invasion, and xenograft tumor growth in vivo and increased the expression of EZH2 and H3K27Me3. A fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay verified that RC3H2 was predominately localized to the cytoplasm. RNA pull-down and luciferase activity assays showed that miR-101-3p was physically bound to RC3H2 as well as EZH2, and its inhibitor reversed the inhibitory effect of RC3H2 knockdown on progression of OSCC. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that RC3H2 as completive endogenous RNA sponging miR-101-3p targets EZH2 and facilitates OSCC cells' malignant behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Dentistry, Affiliated Hospital, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Wenkai Zhou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Bolin Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Xie
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qin Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhenhu Ren
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Hanan EJ, Liang J, Wang X, Blake RA, Blaquiere N, Staben ST. Monomeric Targeted Protein Degraders. J Med Chem 2020; 63:11330-11361. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|