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Ordónez-Rubiano EG, Cómbita A, Baldoncini M, Payán-Gómez C, Gómez-Amarillo DF, Hakim F, Camargo J, Zorro-Sepúlveda V, Luzzi S, Zorro O, Parra-Medina R. Cellular Senescence in Diffuse Gliomas: From Physiopathology to Possible Treatments. World Neurosurg 2024; 191:138-148. [PMID: 39233309 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.08.060] [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: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Cellular senescence in gliomas is a complex process that is induced by aging and replication, ionizing radiation, oncogenic stress, and the use of temozolomide. However, the escape routes that gliomas must evade senescence and achieve cellular immortality are much more complex, in which the expression of telomerase and the alternative lengthening of telomeres, as well as the mutation of some proto-oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, are involved. In gliomas, these molecular mechanisms related to cellular senescence can have a tumor-suppressing or promoting effect and are directly involved in tumor recurrence and progression. From these cellular mechanisms related to cellular senescence, it is possible to generate targeted senostatic and senolytic therapies that improve the response to currently available treatments and improve survival rates. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms of induction and evasion of cellular senescence in gliomas, as well as review possible treatments with therapies targeting pathways related to cellular senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar G Ordónez-Rubiano
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José - Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia; School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia; Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Alba Cómbita
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia; Department of Microbiology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Matías Baldoncini
- School of Medicine, Laboratory of Microsurgical Neuroanatomy, Second Chair of Gross Anatomy, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Department of Neurological Surgery, Hospital San Fernando, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - César Payán-Gómez
- Dirección Académica, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede de La Paz, La Paz, Colombia
| | - Diego F Gómez-Amarillo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernando Hakim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Julián Camargo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Sabino Luzzi
- Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Oscar Zorro
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José - Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rafael Parra-Medina
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Bogotá, Colombia; Research Institute, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José - Sociedad de Cirugía de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
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2
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Kharel P, Ivanov P. RNA G-quadruplexes and stress: emerging mechanisms and functions. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:771-784. [PMID: 38341346 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.01.005] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s) are noncanonical secondary structures formed by guanine-rich sequences that are found in different regions of RNA molecules. These structures have been implicated in diverse biological processes, including translation, splicing, and RNA stability. Recent studies have suggested that rG4s play a role in the cellular response to stress. This review summarizes the current knowledge on rG4s under stress, focusing on their formation, regulation, and potential functions in stress response pathways. We discuss the molecular mechanisms that regulate the formation of rG4 under different stress conditions and the impact of these structures on RNA metabolism, gene expression, and cell survival. Finally, we highlight the potential therapeutic implications of targeting rG4s for the treatment of stress-related diseases through modulating cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Kharel
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Pavel Ivanov
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; HMS Initiative for RNA Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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3
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Pennisi G, Bruzzaniti P, Burattini B, Piaser Guerrato G, Della Pepa GM, Sturiale CL, Lapolla P, Familiari P, La Pira B, D’Andrea G, Olivi A, D’Alessandris QG, Montano N. Advancements in Telomerase-Targeted Therapies for Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8700. [PMID: 39201386 PMCID: PMC11354571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168700] [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: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a primary CNS tumor that is highly lethal in adults and has limited treatment options. Despite advancements in understanding the GBM biology, the standard treatment for GBM has remained unchanged for more than a decade. Only 6.8% of patients survive beyond five years. Telomerase, particularly the hTERT promoter mutations present in up to 80% of GBM cases, represents a promising therapeutic target due to its role in sustaining telomere length and cancer cell proliferation. This review examines the biology of telomerase in GBM and explores potential telomerase-targeted therapies. We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA-P guidelines in the MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus databases, from January 1995 to April 2024. We searched for suitable articles by utilizing the terms "GBM", "high-grade gliomas", "hTERT" and "telomerase". We incorporated studies addressing telomerase-targeted therapies into GBM studies, excluding non-English articles, reviews, and meta-analyses. We evaluated a total of 777 records and 46 full texts, including 36 studies in the final review. Several compounds aimed at inhibiting hTERT transcription demonstrated promising preclinical outcomes; however, they were unsuccessful in clinical trials owing to intricate regulatory pathways and inadequate pharmacokinetics. Direct hTERT inhibitors encountered numerous obstacles, including a prolonged latency for telomere shortening and the activation of the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The G-quadruplex DNA stabilizers appeared to be potential indirect inhibitors, but further clinical studies are required. Imetelstat, the only telomerase inhibitor that has undergone clinical trials, has demonstrated efficacy in various cancers, but its efficacy in GBM has been limited. Telomerase-targeted therapies in GBM is challenging due to complex hTERT regulation and inadequate inhibitor pharmacokinetics. Our study demonstrates that, despite promising preclinical results, no Telomerase inhibitors have been approved for GBM, and clinical trials have been largely unsuccessful. Future strategies may include Telomerase-based vaccines and multi-target inhibitors, which may provide more effective treatments when combined with a better understanding of telomere dynamics and tumor biology. These treatments have the potential to be integrated with existing ones and to improve the outcomes for patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Pennisi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Placido Bruzzaniti
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Benedetta Burattini
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Giacomo Piaser Guerrato
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Maria Della Pepa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Carmelo Lucio Sturiale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | | | - Pietro Familiari
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Biagia La Pira
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Giancarlo D’Andrea
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Alessandro Olivi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Quintino Giorgio D’Alessandris
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Nicola Montano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
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4
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Long W, Zeng YX, Zheng BX, Li YB, Wang YK, Chan KH, She MT, Lu YJ, Cao C, Wong WL. Targeting hTERT Promoter G-Quadruplex DNA Structures with Small-Molecule Ligand to Downregulate hTERT Expression for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Therapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:13363-13382. [PMID: 38987863 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) may have noncanonical functions in transcriptional regulation and metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, but it is a challenging target. We thus developed small-molecule ligands targeting hTERT promoter G-quadruplex DNA structures (hTERT G4) to downregulate hTERT expression. Ligand 5 showed high affinity toward hTERT G4 (Kd = 1.1 μM) and potent activity against triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, IC50 = 1 μM). In cell-based assays, 5 not only exerts markedly inhibitory activity on classical telomere functions including decreased telomerase activity, shortened telomere length, and cellular senescence but also induces DNA damage, acute cellular senescence, and apoptosis. This study reveals that hTERT G4-targeting ligand may cause mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupt iron metabolism and activate ferroptosis in cancer cells. The in vivo antitumor efficacy of 5 was also evaluated in an MDA-MB-231 xenograft mouse model and approximately 78.7% tumor weight reduction was achieved. No observable toxicity against the major organs was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Long
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yao-Xun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Bo-Xin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yu-Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ya-Kun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Ka-Hin Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Meng-Ting She
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yu-Jing Lu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chunyang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wing-Leung Wong
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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5
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Papageorgakopoulou MA, Bania A, Lagogianni IA, Birmpas K, Assimakopoulou M. The Role of Glia Telomere Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Central Nervous System Diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:5868-5881. [PMID: 38240992 PMCID: PMC11249767 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03947-6] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining the telomere length is decisive for the viability and homeostasis process of all the cells of an organism, including human glial cells. Telomere shortening of microglial cells has been widely associated with the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, traumatic brain injury appears to have a positive correlation with the telomere-shortening process of microglia, and telomere length can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for the clinical management of these patients. Moreover, telomere involvement through telomerase reactivation and homologous recombination also known as the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) has been described in gliomagenesis pathways, and particular focus has been given in the translational significance of these mechanisms in gliomas diagnosis and prognostic classification. Finally, glia telomere shortening is implicated in some psychiatric diseases. Given that telomere dysfunction of glial cells is involved in the central nervous system (CNS) disease pathogenesis, it represents a promising drug target that could lead to the incorporation of new tools in the medicinal arsenal for the management of so far incurable conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelina Bania
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Martha Assimakopoulou
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Preclinical Medicine Department Building, 1 Asklipiou, 26504, Patras, Greece.
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6
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Ciaco S, Aronne R, Fiabane M, Mori M. The Rise of Bacterial G-Quadruplexes in Current Antimicrobial Discovery. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:24163-24180. [PMID: 38882119 PMCID: PMC11170735 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent critical issue that poses several challenges to health systems. While the discovery of novel antibiotics is currently stalled and prevalently focused on chemical variations of the scaffolds of available drugs, novel targets and innovative strategies are urgently needed to face this global threat. In this context, bacterial G-quadruplexes (G4s) are emerging as timely and profitable targets for the design and development of antimicrobial agents. Indeed, they are expressed in regulatory regions of bacterial genomes, and their modulation has been observed to provide antimicrobial effects with translational perspectives in the context of AMR. In this work, we review the current knowledge of bacterial G4s as well as their modulation by small molecules, including tools and techniques suitable for these investigations. Finally, we critically analyze the needs and future directions in the field, with a focus on the development of small molecules as bacterial G4s modulators endowed with remarkable drug-likeness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Ciaco
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Rossella Aronne
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Martina Fiabane
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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7
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Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
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8
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Tao HY, Zhao CY, Wang Y, Sheng WJ, Zhen YS. Targeting Telomere Dynamics as an Effective Approach for the Development of Cancer Therapeutics. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3805-3825. [PMID: 38708177 PMCID: PMC11069074 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere is a protective structure located at the end of chromosomes of eukaryotes, involved in maintaining the integrity and stability of the genome. Telomeres play an essential role in cancer progression; accordingly, targeting telomere dynamics emerges as an effective approach for the development of cancer therapeutics. Targeting telomere dynamics may work through multifaceted molecular mechanisms; those include the activation of anti-telomerase immune responses, shortening of telomere lengths, induction of telomere dysfunction and constitution of telomerase-responsive drug release systems. In this review, we summarize a wide variety of telomere dynamics-targeted agents in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and reveal their promising therapeutic potential in cancer therapy. As shown, telomere dynamics-active agents are effective as anti-cancer chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutics. Notably, these agents may display efficacy against cancer stem cells, reducing cancer stem levels. Furthermore, these agents can be integrated with the capability of tumor-specific drug delivery by the constitution of related nanoparticles, antibody drug conjugates and HSA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-yu Tao
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chun-yan Zhao
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-jin Sheng
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-su Zhen
- Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Cervenak M, Molnár OR, Horváth P, Smeller L. Stabilization of G-Quadruplex Structures of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome by TMPyP4, BRACO19, and PhenDC3. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2482. [PMID: 38473730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052482] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The G-quadruplex is one of the non-canonical structures formed by nucleic acids, which can be formed by guanine-rich sequences. They became the focus of much research when they were found in several oncogene promoter regions and also in the telomeres. Later on, they were discovered in viruses as well. Various ligands have been developed in order to stabilize DNA G-quadruplexes, which were believed to have an anti-cancer or antiviral effect. We investigated three of these ligands, and whether they can also affect the stability of the G-quadruplex-forming sequences of the RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2. All three investigated oligonucleotides showed the G-quadruplex form. We characterized their stability and measured their thermodynamic parameters using the Förster resonance energy transfer method. The addition of the ligands caused an increase in the unfolding temperature, but this effect was smaller compared to that found earlier in the case of G-quadruplexes of the hepatitis B virus, which has a DNA genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós Cervenak
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Réka Molnár
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Horváth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, 1092 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Smeller
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
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10
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Di Nunno V, Aprile M, Bartolini S, Gatto L, Tosoni A, Ranieri L, De Biase D, Asioli S, Franceschi E. The Biological and Clinical Role of the Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene in Glioblastoma: A Potential Therapeutic Target? Cells 2023; 13:44. [PMID: 38201248 PMCID: PMC10778438 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010044] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma IDH-wildtype represents the most lethal and frequent primary tumor of the central nervous system. Thanks to important scientific efforts, we can now investigate its deep genomic assessment, elucidating mutated genes and altered biological mechanisms in addition to its clinical aggressiveness. The telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT) is the most frequently altered gene in solid tumors, including brain tumors and GBM IDH-wildtype. In particular, it can be observed in approximately 80-90% of GBM IDH-wildtype cases. Its clonal distribution on almost all cancer cells makes this gene an optimal target. However, the research of effective TERT inhibitors is complicated by several biological and clinical obstacles which can be only partially surmounted. Very recently, novel immunological approaches leading to TERT inhibition have been investigated, offering the potential to develop an effective target for this altered protein. Here, we perform a narrative review investigating the biological role of TERT alterations on glioblastoma and the principal obstacles associated with TERT inhibitions in this population. Moreover, we discuss possible combination treatment strategies to overcome these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Nunno
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy (E.F.)
| | - Marta Aprile
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Bartolini
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy (E.F.)
| | - Lidia Gatto
- Department of Oncology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL) Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy
| | - Alicia Tosoni
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy (E.F.)
| | - Lucia Ranieri
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy (E.F.)
| | - Dario De Biase
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sofia Asioli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), Surgical Pathology Section, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy (E.F.)
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11
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Yan MP, Wee CE, Yen KP, Stevens A, Wai LK. G-quadruplex ligands as therapeutic agents against cancer, neurological disorders and viral infections. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:1987-2009. [PMID: 37933551 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) within the human genome have undergone extensive molecular investigation, with a strong focus on telomeres, gene promoters and repetitive regulatory sequences. G4s play central roles in regulating essential biological processes, including telomere maintenance, replication, transcription and translation. Targeting these molecular processes with G4-binding ligands holds substantial therapeutic potential in anticancer treatments and has also shown promise in treating neurological, skeletal and muscular disorders. The presence of G4s in bacterial and viral genomes also suggests that G4-binding ligands could be a critical tool in fighting infections. This review provides an overview of the progress and applications of G4-binding ligands, their proposed mechanisms of action, challenges faced and prospects for their utilization in anticancer treatments, neurological disorders and antiviral activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mock Phooi Yan
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Chua Eng Wee
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Khor Poh Yen
- Faculty Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Royal College of Medicine Perak, 3, Jalan Greentown, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia
| | - Aaron Stevens
- Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Lam Kok Wai
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
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12
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Garnique A, Rezende-Teixeira P, Machado‐Santelli G. Telomerase inhibitors TMPyP4 and thymoquinone decreased cell proliferation and induced cell death in the non-small cell lung cancer cell line LC-HK2, modifying the pattern of focal adhesion. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12897. [PMID: 37909496 PMCID: PMC10609552 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12897] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4) are structures formed at the ends of telomeres rich in guanines and stabilized by molecules that bind to specific sites. TMPyP4 and thymoquinone (TQ) are small molecules that bind to G4 and have drawn attention because of their role as telomerase inhibitors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of telomerase inhibitors on cellular proliferation, senescence, and death. Two cell lines, LC-HK2 (non-small cell lung cancer - NSCLC) and RPE-1 (hTERT-immortalized), were treated with TMPyP4 (5 μM) and TQ (10 μM). Both inhibitors decreased telomerase activity. TMPyP4 increased the percentage of cells with membrane damage associated with cell death and decreased the frequency of cells in the S-phase. TMPyP4 reduced cell adhesion ability and modified the pattern of focal adhesion. TQ acted in a concentration-dependent manner, increasing the frequency of senescent cells and inducing cell cycle arrest in G1 phase. Thus, the present results showed that TMPyP4 and TQ, although acting as telomerase inhibitors, had a broader effect on other signaling pathways and processes in cells, differing from each other. However, they act both on malignant and immortalized cells, and further studies are needed before their anti-cancer potential can be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.M.B. Garnique
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - P. Rezende-Teixeira
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G.M. Machado‐Santelli
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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13
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Shen Z, Wang Y, Wang G, Gu W, Zhao S, Hu X, Liu W, Cai Y, Ma Z, Gautam RK, Jia J, Wan CC, Yan T. Research progress of small-molecule drugs in targeting telomerase in human cancer and aging. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 382:110631. [PMID: 37451664 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are unique structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes, responsible for stabilizing chromosomal structures. They are synthesized by telomerase, a reverse transcriptase ribonucleoprotein complex. Telomerase activity is generally absent in human somatic cells, except in stem cells and germ cells. Every time a cell divides, the telomere sequence is shortened, eventually leading to replicative senescence and cell apoptosis when the telomeres reach a critical limit. However, most human cancer cells exhibit increased telomerase activity, allowing them to divide continuously. The importance of telomerase in cancer and aging has made developing drugs targeting telomerase a focus of research. Such drugs can inhibit cancer cell growth and delay aging by enhancing telomerase activity in telomere-related syndromes or diseases. This review provides an overview of telomeres, telomerase, and their regulation in cancer and aging, and highlights small-molecule drugs targeting telomerase in these fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Shen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yuanhui Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Guanzhen Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Wei Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Shengchao Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Xiaomeng Hu
- University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China; Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Wei Liu
- University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Yi Cai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology and the State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Zhihong Ma
- Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Rupesh K Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Indore Institute of Pharmacy, Indore, 453331, India
| | - Jia Jia
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; Translational Medicine Center, Zhejiang Xinda hospital, School of Medicine&Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313099, China.
| | - Chunpeng Craig Wan
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory for Postharvest Technology and Nondestructive Testing of Fruits and Vegetables, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
| | - Tingdong Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; Translational Medicine Center, Zhejiang Xinda hospital, School of Medicine&Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313099, China.
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14
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Chojak R, Fares J, Petrosyan E, Lesniak MS. Cellular senescence in glioma. J Neurooncol 2023; 164:11-29. [PMID: 37458855 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-023-04387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glioma is the most common primary brain tumor and is often associated with treatment resistance and poor prognosis. Standard treatment typically involves radiotherapy and temozolomide-based chemotherapy, both of which induce cellular senescence-a tumor suppression mechanism. DISCUSSION Gliomas employ various mechanisms to bypass or escape senescence and remain in a proliferative state. Importantly, senescent cells remain viable and secrete a large number of factors collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that, paradoxically, also have pro-tumorigenic effects. Furthermore, senescent cells may represent one form of tumor dormancy and play a role in glioma recurrence and progression. CONCLUSION In this article, we delineate an overview of senescence in the context of gliomas, including the mechanisms that lead to senescence induction, bypass, and escape. Furthermore, we examine the role of senescent cells in the tumor microenvironment and their role in tumor progression and recurrence. Additionally, we highlight potential therapeutic opportunities for targeting senescence in glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Chojak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jawad Fares
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Edgar Petrosyan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maciej S Lesniak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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15
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Banerjee P, Rosales JE, Chau K, Nguyen MTH, Kotla S, Lin SH, Deswal A, Dantzer R, Olmsted-Davis EA, Nguyen H, Wang G, Cooke JP, Abe JI, Le NT. Possible molecular mechanisms underlying the development of atherosclerosis in cancer survivors. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1186679. [PMID: 37332576 PMCID: PMC10272458 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1186679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer survivors undergone treatment face an increased risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Recent studies have revealed that chemotherapy can drive senescent cancer cells to acquire a proliferative phenotype known as senescence-associated stemness (SAS). These SAS cells exhibit enhanced growth and resistance to cancer treatment, thereby contributing to disease progression. Endothelial cell (EC) senescence has been implicated in atherosclerosis and cancer, including among cancer survivors. Treatment modalities for cancer can induce EC senescence, leading to the development of SAS phenotype and subsequent atherosclerosis in cancer survivors. Consequently, targeting senescent ECs displaying the SAS phenotype hold promise as a therapeutic approach for managing atherosclerotic CVD in this population. This review aims to provide a mechanistic understanding of SAS induction in ECs and its contribution to atherosclerosis among cancer survivors. We delve into the mechanisms underlying EC senescence in response to disturbed flow and ionizing radiation, which play pivotal role in atherosclerosis and cancer. Key pathways, including p90RSK/TERF2IP, TGFβR1/SMAD, and BH4 signaling are explored as potential targets for cancer treatment. By comprehending the similarities and distinctions between different types of senescence and the associated pathways, we can pave the way for targeted interventions aim at enhancing the cardiovascular health of this vulnerable population. The insights gained from this review may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies for managing atherosclerotic CVD in cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Banerjee
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Julia Enterría Rosales
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- School of Medicine, Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Khanh Chau
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Minh T. H. Nguyen
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Life Science, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Sivareddy Kotla
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Steven H. Lin
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Anita Deswal
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Robert Dantzer
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Olmsted-Davis
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hung Nguyen
- Cancer Division, Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Guangyu Wang
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - John P. Cooke
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jun-ichi Abe
- Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nhat-Tu Le
- Center for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
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16
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Ambrosio MR, Migliaccio T, Napolitano F, Di Somma S, Maneli G, Amato J, Pagano B, Randazzo A, Portella G, Formisano P, Malfitano AM. Targeting G-quadruplex motifs interferes with differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:98. [PMID: 37076894 PMCID: PMC10116735 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03320-9] [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: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND G-quadruplex (G4) motifs are nucleic acid secondary structures observed in mammalian genomes and transcriptomes able to regulate various cellular processes. Several small molecules have been developed so far to modulate G4 stability, frequently associated with anticancer activity. However, how G4 structures are regulated over homeostatic conditions is mostly unexplored. Here, we used human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) to address the role of G4 motifs during adipogenic differentiation. METHODS Adipocyte differentiation of ASCs was investigated in the presence or absence of a well-known G4 ligand, Braco-19. Cell viability was determined by sulforhodamine B assay. Cell dimension and granularity, DNA G4 motifs and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Lipid droplet accumulation was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Cell senescence was evaluated by β-galactosidase staining. Gene expression was measured by qPCR. Protein release in the extracellular medium was quantified by ELISA. RESULTS Braco-19 used at non-cytotoxic concentrations induced morphological changes in mature adipocytes partially restoring an undifferentiated-like status. Braco-19 reduced lipid vacuolization and PPARG, AP2, LEP and TNFA mRNA levels in terminally differentiated cells. No effect was observed in cell senescence, fibrotic markers, IL-6 and IL-8 production, while the secretion of VEGF was dose-dependently reduced. Interestingly, G4 structures were increased in differentiated adipocytes compared to their precursors. Braco-19 treatment reduced G4 content in mature adipocytes. CONCLUSIONS Our data highlight a new role of G4 motifs as genomic structural elements related to human ASC differentiation into mature adipocytes, with potential implications in physio-pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Ambrosio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, National Research Council, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Migliaccio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Napolitano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Sarah Di Somma
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maneli
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Portella
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, National Research Council, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
- URT Genomics of Diabetes, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, National Research Council, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Malfitano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Yeh TJ, Luo CW, Du JS, Huang CT, Wang MH, Chuang TM, Gau YC, Cho SF, Liu YC, Hsiao HH, Chen LT, Pan MR, Wang HC, Moi SH. Deciphering the Functions of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase in Head and Neck Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:691. [PMID: 36979671 PMCID: PMC10044978 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are among the ten leading malignancies worldwide. Despite significant progress in all therapeutic modalities, predictive biomarkers, and targeted therapies for HNCs are limited and the survival rate is unsatisfactory. The importance of telomere maintenance via telomerase reactivation in carcinogenesis has been demonstrated in recent decades. Several mechanisms could activate telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), the most common of which is promoter alternation. Two major hotspot TERT promoter mutations (C228T and C250T) have been reported in different malignancies such as melanoma, genitourinary cancers, CNS tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma, thyroid cancers, sarcomas, and HNCs. The frequencies of TERT promoter mutations vary widely across tumors and is quite high in HNCs (11.9-64.7%). These mutations have been reported to be more enriched in oral cavity SCCs and HPV-negative tumors. The association between TERT promoter mutations and poor survival has also been demonstrated. Till now, several therapeutic strategies targeting telomerase have been developed although only a few drugs have been used in clinical trials. Here, we briefly review and summarize our current understanding and evidence of TERT promoter mutations in HNC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Jang Yeh
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Wen Luo
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Cosmetic Science and Institute of Cosmetic Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 717, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Shiun Du
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Tzu Huang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hung Wang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Tzer-Ming Chuang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Ching Gau
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Feng Cho
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chang Liu
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Hua Hsiao
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ren Pan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Wang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Sin-Hua Moi
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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18
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Savva L, Fossépré M, Keramidas O, Themistokleous A, Rizeq N, Panagiotou N, Leclercq M, Nicolaidou E, Surin M, Hayes SC, Georgiades SN. Gaining Insights on the Interactions of a Class of Decorated (2-([2,2'-Bipyridin]-6-yl)phenyl)platinum Compounds with c-Myc Oncogene Promoter G-Quadruplex and Other DNA Structures. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201497. [PMID: 35726630 PMCID: PMC9804160 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Organometallic molecules offer some of the most promising scaffolds for interaction with G-quadruplex nucleic acids. We report the efficient synthesis of a family of organoplatinum(II) complexes, featuring a 2-([2,2'-bipyridin]-6-yl)phenyl tridentate (N∧ N∧ C) ligand, that incorporates peripheral side-chains aiming at enhancing and diversifying its interaction capabilities. These include a di-isopropyl carbamoyl amide, a morpholine ethylenamide, two enantiomeric proline imides and an oxazole. The binding affinities of the Pt-complexes were evaluated via UV-vis and fluorescence titrations, against 5 topologically-distinct DNA structures, including c-myc G-quadruplex, two telomeric (22AG) G-quadruplexes, a duplex (ds26) and a single-stranded (polyT) DNA. All compounds exhibited binding selectivity in favour of c-myc, with association constants (Ka ) in the range of 2-5×105 M-1 , lower affinity for both folds of 22AG and for ds26 and negligible affinity for polyT. Remarkable emission enhancements (up to 200-fold) upon addition of excess DNA were demonstrated by a subset of the compounds with c-myc, providing a basis for optical selectivity, since optical response to all other tested DNAs was low. A c-myc DNA-melting experiment showed significant stabilizing abilities for all compounds, with the most potent binder, the morpholine-Pt-complex, exhibiting a ΔTm >30 °C, at 1 : 5 DNA-to-ligand molar ratio. The same study implied contributions of the diverse side-chains to helix stabilization. To gain direct evidence of the nature of the interactions, mixtures of c-myc with the four most promising compounds were studied via UV Resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy, which revealed end-stacking binding mode, combined with interactions of side-chains with loop nucleobase residues. Docking simulations were conducted to provide insights into the binding modes for the same four Pt-compounds, suggesting that the binding preference for two alternative orientations of the c-myc G-quadruplex thymine 'cap' ('open' vs. 'closed'), as well as the relative contributions to affinity from end-stacking and H-bonding, are highly dependent on the nature of the interacting Pt-complex side-chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukiani Savva
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Mathieu Fossépré
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Odysseas Keramidas
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | | | - Natalia Rizeq
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Nikos Panagiotou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Maxime Leclercq
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Eliana Nicolaidou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Mathieu Surin
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Sophia C. Hayes
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Savvas N. Georgiades
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
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19
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Research Progress on G-Quadruplexes in Human Telomeres and Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) Promoter. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:2905663. [PMID: 35707279 PMCID: PMC9192192 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2905663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The upregulation telomerase activity is observed in over 85-90% of human cancers and provides an attractive target for cancer therapies. The high guanine content in the telomere DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter can form G-quadruplexes (G4s). Small molecules targeting G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter could stabilize the G4s and inhibit hTERT expression and telomere extension. Several G4 ligands have shown inhibitory effects in cancer cells and xenograft mouse models, indicating these ligands have a potential for cancer therapies. The current review article describes the concept of the telomere, telomerase, and G4s. Moreover, the regulation of telomerase and G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter is discussed as well. The summary of the small molecules targeting G4s in telomeric DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter will also be shown.
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Thaichana P, Summart R, Dejkriengkraikul P, Meepowpan P, Lee TR, Tuntiwechapikul W. Hydrosoluble Perylene Monoimide-Based Telomerase Inhibitors with Diminished Cytotoxicity. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:16746-16756. [PMID: 35601338 PMCID: PMC9118414 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Telomerase is essential for the immortality characteristics of most cancers. Telomerase-specific inhibitors should render cancer cells to replicative senescence without acute cytotoxicity. Perylene-based G-quadruplex (G4) ligands are widely studied as telomerase inhibitors. Most reported perylene-based G4 ligands are perylene diimides (PDIs), which often suffer from self-aggregation in aqueous solutions. Previously, we found that PM2, a perylene monoimide (PMI), exhibited better solubility, G4 binding affinity, and telomerase inhibition than PIPER, the prototypic PDI. However, the acute cytotoxicity of PM2 was about 20-30 times more than PIPER in cancer cells. In this report, we replaced the piperazine side chain of PM2 with ethylenediamine to yield PM3 and replaced the N,N-diethylethylenediamine side chain of PM2 with the 1-(2-aminoethyl) piperidine to yield PM5. We found that asymmetric PMIs with two basic side chains (PM2, PM3, and PM5) performed better than PIPER (the prototypic PDI), in terms of hydrosolubility, G4 binding, in vitro telomerase inhibition, and suppression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) expression and telomerase activity in A549 cells. However, PM5 was 7-10 times less toxic than PM2 and PM3 in three cancer cell lines. We conclude that replacing the N,N-diethylethylenediamine side chain with the 2-aminoethylpiperidine on PMIs reduces the cytotoxicity in cancer cells without impacting G4 binding and telomerase inhibition. This study paves the way for synthesizing new PMIs with drug-like properties for selective telomerase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pak Thaichana
- Department
of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang
Mai University, Chiang
Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Ratasark Summart
- Department
of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang
Mai University, Chiang
Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pornngarm Dejkriengkraikul
- Department
of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang
Mai University, Chiang
Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center
for Research and Development of Natural Products for Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Puttinan Meepowpan
- Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang
Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - T. Randall Lee
- Department
of Chemistry and the Texas Center for Superconductivity, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77204-5003, United States
| | - Wirote Tuntiwechapikul
- Department
of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang
Mai University, Chiang
Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center
for Research and Development of Natural Products for Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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21
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Mendes E, Aljnadi IM, Bahls B, Victor BL, Paulo A. Major Achievements in the Design of Quadruplex-Interactive Small Molecules. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:300. [PMID: 35337098 PMCID: PMC8953082 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Organic small molecules that can recognize and bind to G-quadruplex and i-Motif nucleic acids have great potential as selective drugs or as tools in drug target discovery programs, or even in the development of nanodevices for medical diagnosis. Hundreds of quadruplex-interactive small molecules have been reported, and the challenges in their design vary with the intended application. Herein, we survey the major achievements on the therapeutic potential of such quadruplex ligands, their mode of binding, effects upon interaction with quadruplexes, and consider the opportunities and challenges for their exploitation in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Mendes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
| | - Israa M. Aljnadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bárbara Bahls
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bruno L. Victor
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Alexandra Paulo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
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22
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Szymańska M, Kubicki M, Roviello GN, Consiglio G, Fik-Jaskółka MA, Patroniak V. New Cu( i) square grid-type and Ni( ii) triangle-type complexes: synthesis and characterization of effective binders of DNA and serum albumins. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:15648-15658. [DOI: 10.1039/d2dt02271k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Metallosupramolecular square grid-type complex [Cu4L4]4+ and triangle-type complex [Ni3L3]6+ as a potential strategy for obtaining versatile metal-based DNA, Serum Albumin (SA) and DNA binders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Szymańska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Maciej Kubicki
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging – CNR, Area di Ricerca site and Headquartes, Via Tommaso De Amicis, 95, 80145 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Consiglio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli studi di Catania, viale A. Doria 6, I-95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Marta A. Fik-Jaskółka
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Violetta Patroniak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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23
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Wang Y, Li C, Hao X, Wang L, Ma X, Jin R, Kang C, Gao L. A naphthyridine-indole ligand for selective stabilization of G-quadruplexes and conformational conversion of hybrid topology. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 48:116416. [PMID: 34560615 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The development of ligands to stabilize G-quadruplexes (G4s) or induce G4s to transition from metastable topology to stable topology is a potential strategy for inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. In this study, a novel G-quadruplex (G4) ligand based on a naphthyridine scaffold with two indole pendants, L5-DA, is reported to convert hybrid to the parallel topology. Circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopies were used to investigate the interactions between L5-DA and G4s. The CD spectra revealed that the L5-DA induced the conformational conversion from hybrid topologies to parallel topologies with a melting temperature increase of more than 30 °C. According to Förster resonance energy transfer assays, the presence of excess duplex competitor had no effect on the ligand-induced stabilization of the hybrid topology, confirming the L5-DA's selectivity for G4s over ds26. With IC50 values of 4.3 μM, the ligand showed significant cytotoxicity against HeLa cells and effectively induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in HeLa cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed an increase in BG4 foci in the presence of the L5-DA, confirming ligand-induced G4s stabilization in HeLa cells. According to these results, the combination of naphthyridine and indole scaffold was an effective design strategy for G4s stabilization and conformational conversion of metastable G4 topology for inhibiting cancer cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xueyu Hao
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Liangpeng Wang
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xiaoye Ma
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Rizhe Jin
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Chuanqing Kang
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Lianxun Gao
- Laboratory of Polymer Composite and Engineering, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
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Bhari VK, Kumar D, Kumar S, Mishra R. Shelterin complex gene: Prognosis and therapeutic vulnerability in cancer. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 26:100937. [PMID: 33553693 PMCID: PMC7859307 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.100937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere encompasses a (TTAGGG)n tandem repeats, and its dysfunction has emerged as the epicenter of driving carcinogenesis by promoting genetic instability. Indeed, they play an essential role in stabilizing chromosomes and therefore protecting them from end-to-end fusion and DNA degradation. Telomere length homeostasis is regulated by several key players including shelterin complex genes, telomerase, and various other regulators. Targeting these regulatory players can be a good approach to combat cancer as telomere length is increasingly correlated with cancer initiation and progression. In this review, we have aimed to describe the telomere length regulator's role in prognostic significance and important drug targets in breast cancer. Moreover, we also assessed alteration in telomeric function by various telomere length regulators and compares this to the regulatory mechanisms that can be associated with clinical biomarkers in cancer. Using publicly available software we summarized mutational and CpG island prediction analysis of the TERT gene breast cancer patient database. Studies have reported that the TERT gene has prognostic significance in breast cancer progression however mechanistic approaches are not defined yet. Interestingly, we reported using the UCSC Xena web-based tool, we confirmed a positive correlation of shelterin complex genes TERF1 and TERF2 in recurrent free survival, indicating the critical role of these genes in breast cancer prognosis. Moreover, the epigenetic landscape of DNA damage repair genes in different breast cancer subtypes also being analyzed using the UCSC Xena database. Together, these datasets provide a comprehensive resource for shelterin complex gene profiles and define epigenetic landscapes of DNA damage repair genes which reveals the key role of shelterin complex genes in breast cancer with the potential to identify novel and actionable targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Kumar Bhari
- Department of Biosciences, Manipal University Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Durgesh Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Government Medical College, Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Surendra Kumar
- Department of Neurology, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Rajeev Mishra
- Department of Biosciences, Manipal University Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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25
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Krafčík D, Ištvánková E, Džatko Š, Víšková P, Foldynová-Trantírková S, Trantírek L. Towards Profiling of the G-Quadruplex Targeting Drugs in the Living Human Cells Using NMR Spectroscopy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6042. [PMID: 34205000 PMCID: PMC8199861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the 1H-detected in-cell NMR spectroscopy has emerged as a unique tool allowing the characterization of interactions between nucleic acid-based targets and drug-like molecules in living human cells. Here, we assess the application potential of 1H and 19F-detected in-cell NMR spectroscopy to profile drugs/ligands targeting DNA G-quadruplexes, arguably the most studied class of anti-cancer drugs targeting nucleic acids. We show that the extension of the original in-cell NMR approach is not straightforward. The severe signal broadening and overlap of 1H in-cell NMR spectra of polymorphic G-quadruplexes and their complexes complicate their quantitative interpretation. Nevertheless, the 1H in-cell NMR can be used to identify drugs that, despite strong interaction in vitro, lose their ability to bind G-quadruplexes in the native environment. The in-cell NMR approach is adjusted to a recently developed 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl probe to monitor the intracellular interaction with ligands using 19F-detected in-cell NMR. The probe allows dissecting polymorphic mixture in terms of number and relative populations of individual G-quadruplex species, including ligand-bound and unbound forms in vitro and in cellulo. Despite the probe's discussed limitations, the 19F-detected in-cell NMR appears to be a promising strategy to profile G-quadruplex-ligand interactions in the complex environment of living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Krafčík
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (D.K.); (E.I.); (Š.D.); (P.V.)
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Ištvánková
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (D.K.); (E.I.); (Š.D.); (P.V.)
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Šimon Džatko
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (D.K.); (E.I.); (Š.D.); (P.V.)
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlína Víšková
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (D.K.); (E.I.); (Š.D.); (P.V.)
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | - Lukáš Trantírek
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (D.K.); (E.I.); (Š.D.); (P.V.)
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26
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Abiri A, Lavigne M, Rezaei M, Nikzad S, Zare P, Mergny JL, Rahimi HR. Unlocking G-Quadruplexes as Antiviral Targets. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:897-923. [PMID: 34045305 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Guanine-rich DNA and RNA sequences can fold into noncanonical nucleic acid structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s). Since the discovery that these structures may act as scaffolds for the binding of specific ligands, G4s aroused the attention of a growing number of scientists. The versatile roles of G4 structures in viral replication, transcription, and translation suggest direct applications in therapy or diagnostics. G4-interacting molecules (proteins or small molecules) may also affect the balance between latent and lytic phases, and increasing evidence reveals that G4s are implicated in generally suppressing viral processes, such as replication, transcription, translation, or reverse transcription. In this review, we focus on the discovery of G4s in viruses and the role of G4 ligands in the antiviral drug discovery process. After assessing the role of viral G4s, we argue that host G4s participate in immune modulation, viral tumorigenesis, cellular pathways involved in virus maturation, and DNA integration of viral genomes, which can be potentially employed for antiviral therapeutics. Furthermore, we scrutinize the impediments and shortcomings in the process of studying G4 ligands and drug discovery. Finally, some unanswered questions regarding viral G4s are highlighted for prospective future projects. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical nucleic acid structures that have gained increasing recognition during the last few decades. First identified as relevant targets in oncology, their importance in virology is now increasingly clear. A number of G-quadruplex ligands are known: viral transcription and replication are the main targets of these ligands. Both viral and cellular G4s may be targeted; this review embraces the different aspects of G-quadruplexes in both host and viral contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardavan Abiri
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Marc Lavigne
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Masoud Rezaei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Sanaz Nikzad
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Peyman Zare
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
| | - Hamid-Reza Rahimi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (A.A., S.N.); Institut Pasteur, Department of Virology, UMR 3569 CNRS, Paris, France (M.L.); Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (M.R.); Dioscuri Center of Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland (P.Z.); Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau cedex, France (J.-L.M.); Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran (H.-R.R.)
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27
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G-quadruplex stabilization via small-molecules as a potential anti-cancer strategy. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111550. [PMID: 33831835 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4) are secondary four-stranded DNA helical structures consisting of guanine-rich nucleic acids, which can be formed in the promoter regions of several genes under proper conditions. Several cancer cells have been shown to emerge from genomic changes in the expression of crucial growth-regulating genes that allow cells to develop and begin to propagate in an undifferentiated state. Recent attempts have focused on producing treatments targeted at particular protein products of genes that are abnormally expressed. Many of the proteins found are hard to target and considered undruggable due to structural challenges, protein overexpression, or mutations that affect treatment resistance. The utilization of small molecules that stabilize secondary DNA structures existing in several possible oncogenes' promoters and modulate their transcription is a new strategy that avoids some of these problems. In this review, we outline the function of G-quadruplex stabilization in cancer by small-molecules with the aim to improve cancer therapy.
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28
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Monsen RC, Chakravarthy S, Dean WL, Chaires JB, Trent JO. The solution structures of higher-order human telomere G-quadruplex multimers. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:1749-1768. [PMID: 33469644 PMCID: PMC7897503 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human telomeres contain the repeat DNA sequence 5′-d(TTAGGG), with duplex regions that are several kilobases long terminating in a 3′ single-stranded overhang. The structure of the single-stranded overhang is not known with certainty, with disparate models proposed in the literature. We report here the results of an integrated structural biology approach that combines small-angle X-ray scattering, circular dichroism (CD), analytical ultracentrifugation, size-exclusion column chromatography and molecular dynamics simulations that provide the most detailed characterization to date of the structure of the telomeric overhang. We find that the single-stranded sequences 5′-d(TTAGGG)n, with n = 8, 12 and 16, fold into multimeric structures containing the maximal number (2, 3 and 4, respectively) of contiguous G4 units with no long gaps between units. The G4 units are a mixture of hybrid-1 and hybrid-2 conformers. In the multimeric structures, G4 units interact, at least transiently, at the interfaces between units to produce distinctive CD signatures. Global fitting of our hydrodynamic and scattering data to a worm-like chain (WLC) model indicates that these multimeric G4 structures are semi-flexible, with a persistence length of ∼34 Å. Investigations of its flexibility using MD simulations reveal stacking, unstacking, and coiling movements, which yield unique sites for drug targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Monsen
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Srinivas Chakravarthy
- The Biophysics Collaborative Access Team (BioCAT), Department of Biological Chemical and Physical Sciences, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - William L Dean
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Jonathan B Chaires
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.,James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - John O Trent
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.,James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Louisville Medical School, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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29
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Fik-Jaskółka MA, Pospieszna-Markiewicz I, Roviello GN, Kubicki M, Radecka-Paryzek W, Patroniak V. Synthesis and Spectroscopic Investigation of a Hexaaza Lanthanum(III) Macrocycle with a Hybrid-Type G4 DNA Stabilizing Effect. Inorg Chem 2021; 60:2122-2126. [PMID: 33528248 PMCID: PMC7888264 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.0c03260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Herein we present a mononuclear lanthanum(III) complex obtained in a template cyclocondensation reaction of lanthanum(III) nitrate salt, 1,2-propanediamine, and 2,6-diacetylpyridine (LaPA complex). A preliminary investigation of the biological potential of this compound was conducted using a biomedically relevant target Tel26. We found that, different from parallel G4, antiparallel G4, and duplex DNA, only a hybrid-type G4 structure of Tel26 in a K+ solution was significantly stabilized by ≥7 °C, which emerged in our UV melting studies. Moreover, LaPA induced structural changes in the Tel26 structure in a K+-deprived solution, suggesting that it may also lead to conformational changes in "non-G4" telomeric DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A Fik-Jaskółka
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland.,Centre for Advanced Technology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Giovanni N Roviello
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, National Research Council, Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maciej Kubicki
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Wanda Radecka-Paryzek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Violetta Patroniak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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30
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TERRA G-quadruplex RNA interaction with TRF2 GAR domain is required for telomere integrity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3509. [PMID: 33568696 PMCID: PMC7876106 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82406-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere dysfunction causes chromosomal instability which is associated with many cancers and age-related diseases. The non-coding telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) forms a structural and regulatory component of the telomere that is implicated in telomere maintenance and chromosomal end protection. The basic N-terminal Gly/Arg-rich (GAR) domain of telomeric repeat-binding factor 2 (TRF2) can bind TERRA but the structural basis and significance of this interaction remains poorly understood. Here, we show that TRF2 GAR recognizes G-quadruplex features of TERRA. We show that small molecules that disrupt the TERRA-TRF2 GAR complex, such as N-methyl mesoporphyrin IX (NMM) or genetic deletion of TRF2 GAR domain, result in the loss of TERRA, and the induction of γH2AX-associated telomeric DNA damage associated with decreased telomere length, and increased telomere aberrations, including telomere fragility. Taken together, our data indicates that the G-quadruplex structure of TERRA is an important recognition element for TRF2 GAR domain and this interaction between TRF2 GAR and TERRA is essential to maintain telomere stability.
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31
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Long W, Zheng BX, Huang XH, She MT, Liu AL, Zhang K, Wong WL, Lu YJ. Molecular Recognition and Imaging of Human Telomeric G-Quadruplex DNA in Live Cells: A Systematic Advancement of Thiazole Orange Scaffold To Enhance Binding Specificity and Inhibition of Gene Expression. J Med Chem 2021; 64:2125-2138. [PMID: 33559473 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
A series of fluorescent ligands, which were systematically constructed from thiazole orange scaffold, was investigated for their interactions with G-quadruplex structures and antitumor activity. Among the ligands, compound 3 was identified to exhibit excellent specificity toward telomere G4-DNA over other nucleic acids. The affinity of 3-Htg24 was almost 5 times higher than that of double-stranded DNA and promoter G4-DNA. Interaction studies showed that 3 may bind to both G-tetrad and the lateral loop near the 5'-end. The intracellular colocalization with BG4 and competition studies with BRACO19 reveal that 3 may interact with G4-structures. Moreover, 3 reduces the telomere length and downregulates hTERC and hTERT mRNA expression in HeLa cells. The cytotoxicity of 3 against cancer cells (IC50 = 12.7-16.2 μM) was found to be generally higher than noncancer cells (IC50 = 52.3 μM). The findings may support that the ligand is telomere G4-DNA specific and may provide meaningful insights for anticancer drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Long
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Bo-Xin Zheng
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Xuan-He Huang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Ting She
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Ao-Lu Liu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Kun Zhang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, P. R. China
| | - Wing-Leung Wong
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yu-Jing Lu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Engineering Research Academy of High Value Utilization of Green Plants, Meizhou 514779, P. R. China
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32
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Savva L, Georgiades SN. Recent Developments in Small-Molecule Ligands of Medicinal Relevance for Harnessing the Anticancer Potential of G-Quadruplexes. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26040841. [PMID: 33562720 PMCID: PMC7914483 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26040841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes, a family of tetraplex helical nucleic acid topologies, have emerged in recent years as novel targets, with untapped potential for anticancer research. Their potential stems from the fact that G-quadruplexes occur in functionally-important regions of the human genome, such as the telomere tandem sequences, several proto-oncogene promoters, other regulatory regions and sequences of DNA (e.g., rDNA), as well as in mRNAs encoding for proteins with roles in tumorigenesis. Modulation of G-quadruplexes, via interaction with high-affinity ligands, leads to their stabilization, with numerous observed anticancer effects. Despite the fact that only a few lead compounds for G-quadruplex modulation have progressed to clinical trials so far, recent advancements in the field now create conditions that foster further development of drug candidates. This review highlights biological processes through which G-quadruplexes can exert their anticancer effects and describes, via selected case studies, progress of the last few years on the development of efficient and drug-like G-quadruplex-targeted ligands, intended to harness the anticancer potential offered by G-quadruplexes. The review finally provides a critical discussion of perceived challenges and limitations that have previously hampered the progression of G-quadruplex-targeted lead compounds to clinical trials, concluding with an optimistic future outlook.
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Majee P, Pattnaik A, Sahoo BR, Shankar U, Pattnaik AK, Kumar A, Nayak D. Inhibition of Zika virus replication by G-quadruplex-binding ligands. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 23:691-701. [PMID: 33575115 PMCID: PMC7851496 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-transmitted Flavivirus, emerged in the last decade causing serious diseases and affecting human health globally. Currently, no licensed vaccines or antivirals are available to combat ZIKV, although several vaccine candidates are in the pipeline. In recent years, the presence of non-canonical G-quadruplex (GQ) secondary structures in viral genomes has ignited significant attention as potential targets for antiviral strategy. In this study, we identified several novel conserved potential GQ structures by analyzing published ZIKV genome sequences using an in-house algorithm. Biophysical and biochemical analysis of the RNA sequences containing these potential GQ sequences suggested the existence of such structures in the ZIKV genomes. Studies with known GQ structure-binding and -stabilizing ligands such as Braco-19 and TMPyP4 provided support for this contention. The presence of these ligands in cell culture media led to significant inhibition of infectious ZIKV yield, as well as reduced viral genome replication and viral protein production. Overall, our results, for the first time, show that ZIKV replication can be inhibited by GQ structure-binding and -stabilizing compounds and suggest a new strategy against ZIKV infection mitigation and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prativa Majee
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Madhya Pradesh 453552, India
| | - Aryamav Pattnaik
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Bikash R Sahoo
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Uma Shankar
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Madhya Pradesh 453552, India
| | - Asit K Pattnaik
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - Amit Kumar
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Madhya Pradesh 453552, India
| | - Debasis Nayak
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Madhya Pradesh 453552, India
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Piekna-Przybylska D, Bambara RA, Maggirwar SB, Dewhurst S. G-quadruplex ligands targeting telomeres do not inhibit HIV promoter activity and cooperate with latency reversing agents in killing latently infected cells. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:2298-2313. [PMID: 32807015 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1796268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered telomere maintenance mechanism (TMM) is linked to increased DNA damage at telomeres and telomere uncapping. We previously showed that HIV-1 latent cells have altered TMM and are susceptible to ligands that target G-quadruplexes (G4) at telomeres. Susceptibility of latent cells to telomere targeting could potentially be used to support approaches to eradicate HIV reservoirs. However, G4 ligands also target G-quadruplexes in promoters blocking gene transcription. Since HIV promoter sequence can form G-quadruplexes, we investigated whether G4 ligands interfere with HIV-1 promoter activity and virus reactivation from latency, and whether telomere targeting could be combined with latency reversing agents (LRAs) to promote elimination of HIV reservoirs. Our results indicate that Sp1 binding region in HIV-1 promoter can adopt G4 structures in duplex DNA, and that in vitro binding of Sp1 to G-quadruplex is blocked by G4 ligand, suggesting that agents targeting telomeres interfere with virus reactivation. However, our studies show that G4 agents do not affect HIV-1 promoter activity in cell culture, and do not interfere with latency reversal. Importantly, primary memory CD4 + T cells infected with latent HIV-1 are more susceptible to combined treatment with LRAs and G4 ligands, indicating that drugs targeting TMM may enhance killing of HIV reservoirs. Using a cell-based DNA repair assay, we also found that HIV-1 infected cells have reduced efficiency of DNA mismatch repair (MMR), and base excision repair (BER), suggesting that altered TMM in latently infected cells could be associated with accumulation of DNA damage at telomeres and changes in telomeric caps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Piekna-Przybylska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester , Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Robert A Bambara
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester , Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sanjay B Maggirwar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Stephen Dewhurst
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester , Rochester, NY, USA
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Abstract
Several decades elapsed between the first descriptions of G-quadruplex nucleic acid structures (G4s) assembled in vitro and the emergence of experimental findings indicating that such structures can form and function in living systems. A large body of evidence now supports roles for G4s in many aspects of nucleic acid biology, spanning processes from transcription and chromatin structure, mRNA processing, protein translation, DNA replication and genome stability, and telomere and mitochondrial function. Nonetheless, it must be acknowledged that some of this evidence is tentative, which is not surprising given the technical challenges associated with demonstrating G4s in biology. Here I provide an overview of evidence for G4 biology, focusing particularly on the many potential pitfalls that can be encountered in its investigation, and briefly discuss some of broader biological processes that may be impacted by G4s including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Brad Johnson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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36
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He YD, Zheng KW, Wen CJ, Li XM, Gong JY, Hao YH, Zhao Y, Tan Z. Selective Targeting of Guanine-Vacancy-Bearing G-Quadruplexes by G-Quartet Complementation and Stabilization with a Guanine-Peptide Conjugate. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:11394-11403. [PMID: 32491844 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c00774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Stabilization of G-quadruplexes (G4s) formed in guanine-rich (G-rich) nucleic acids by small-molecule ligands has been extensively explored as a therapeutic approach for diseases such as cancer. Finding ligands with sufficient affinity and specificity toward G4s remains a challenge, and many ligands reported seemed to compromise between the two features. To cope with this challenge, we focused on targeting a particular type of G4s, i.e., the G-vacancy-bearing G-quadruplexes (GVBQs), by taking a structure complementation strategy to enhance both affinity and selectivity. In this approach, a G-quadruplex-binding peptide RHAU23 is guided toward a GVBQ by a guanine moiety covalently linked to the peptide. The filling-in of the vacancy in a GVBQ by the guanine ensures an exclusive recognition of GVBQ. Moreover, the synergy between the RHAU23 and the guanine dramatically improves both the affinity toward and stabilization of the GVBQ. Targeting a GVBQ in DNA by this bifunctional peptide strongly suppresses in vitro replication. This study demonstrates a novel and promising alternative targeting strategy to a distinctive panel of G4s that are as abundant as the canonical ones in the human genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-de He
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | - Ke-Wei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | - Cui-Jiao Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | - Xin-Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Yuan Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Hua Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
| | | | - Zheng Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China.,Center for Healthy Aging, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, Shanxi, P. R. China
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37
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G-quadruplex, Friend or Foe: The Role of the G-quartet in Anticancer Strategies. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:848-861. [PMID: 32467069 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The clinical applicability of G-quadruplexes (G4s) as anticancer drugs is currently being evaluated. Several G4 ligands and aptamers are undergoing clinical trials following the notable examples of quarfloxin and AS1411, respectively. In this review, we summarize the latest achievements and breakthroughs in the use of G4 nucleic acids as both therapeutic tools ('friends', as healing anticancer drugs) and targets ('foes', within the harmful cancer cell), particularly using aptamers and quadruplex-targeted ligands, respectively. We explore the recent research on synthetic G4 ligands toward the discovery of anticancer therapeutics and their mechanism of action. Additionally, we highlight recent advances in chemical and structural biology that enable the design of specific G4 aptamers to be used as novel anticancer agents.
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38
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Tateishi-Karimata H, Sugimoto N. Chemical biology of non-canonical structures of nucleic acids for therapeutic applications. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:2379-2390. [PMID: 32022004 DOI: 10.1039/c9cc09771f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
DNA forms not only the canonical duplex structure but also non-canonical structures. Most potential sequences that induce the formation of non-canonical structures are present in disease-related genes. Interestingly, biological reactions are inhibited or dysregulated by non-canonical structure formation in disease-related genes. To control biological reactions, methods for inducing the formation of non-canonical structures have been developed using small molecules and oligonucleotides. In this feature article, we review biological reactions such as replication, transcription, and reverse transcription controlled by non-canonical DNA structures formed by disease-related genes. Furthermore, we discuss recent studies aimed at developing methods for regulating these biological reactions using drugs targeting the DNA structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisae Tateishi-Karimata
- Frontier Institute for Biomolecular Engineering Research (FIBER), Konan University, 17-1-20 Minatojima-minamimachi, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan.
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39
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Wang S, Yan WW, He M, Wei D, Long ZJ, Tao YM. Aloe emodin inhibits telomerase activity in breast cancer cells: transcriptional and enzymological mechanism. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1383-1396. [PMID: 32207090 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00062-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomerase plays an essential role in cancer cell proliferation. In this study, we investigated inhibition mechanism of aloe emodin (AE) on three different types of breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-453, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7. METHODS The cells were treated with different concentrations of AE. Relative length of telomere and human telomerase reverse-transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA level was analyzed by quantitative PCR (qPCR). Protein level was assayed by Western blot. Sodium bisulfite methylation sequencing was performed to assess the methylation status of gene promoter. Enzymology kinetics was applied to reveal the interaction between AE and telomerase. Ultraviolet-visible titration and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) melting experiment were carried out to study the interaction between AE and telomeric DNA. RESULTS Continuous AE exposure of these cells for 48 h results in shortening of telomeres and inhibition of telomerase. The transcription of hTERT was repressed by activation of E2F1 and inactivation of c-myc proteins. Significant demethylation of CpG islands in hTERT gene promoter was observed in MDA-MB-453 and MCF-7 cells. AE competed with dNTP for occupation of the enzyme active site. AE was a telomeric G-quadruplex structure stabilizer as indicated by titration test and FRET experiments. CONCLUSIONS AE was a competitive inhibitor of telomerase and a G-quadruplex structure stabilizer. AE decreased the transcription of hTERT gene in the three breast cancer cell lines via up-regulation E2F1 and down-regulation c-myc expressions. The suppressed transcription was also related to the demethylation of the gene promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Wang
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China.,Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518035, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Wen Yan
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Min He
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Wei
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zu-Ji Long
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ming Tao
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China.
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Structural Features of Nucleoprotein CST/Shelterin Complex Involved in the Telomere Maintenance and Its Association with Disease Mutations. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020359. [PMID: 32033110 PMCID: PMC7072152 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere comprises the ends of eukaryotic linear chromosomes and is composed of G-rich (TTAGGG) tandem repeats which play an important role in maintaining genome stability, premature aging and onsets of many diseases. Majority of the telomere are replicated by conventional DNA replication, and only the last bit of the lagging strand is synthesized by telomerase (a reverse transcriptase). In addition to replication, telomere maintenance is principally carried out by two key complexes known as shelterin (TRF1, TRF2, TIN2, RAP1, POT1, and TPP1) and CST (CDC13/CTC1, STN1, and TEN1). Shelterin protects the telomere from DNA damage response (DDR) and regulates telomere length by telomerase; while, CST govern the extension of telomere by telomerase and C strand fill-in synthesis. We have investigated both structural and biochemical features of shelterin and CST complexes to get a clear understanding of their importance in the telomere maintenance. Further, we have analyzed ~115 clinically important mutations in both of the complexes. Association of such mutations with specific cellular fault unveils the importance of shelterin and CST complexes in the maintenance of genome stability. A possibility of targeting shelterin and CST by small molecule inhibitors is further investigated towards the therapeutic management of associated diseases. Overall, this review provides a possible direction to understand the mechanisms of telomere borne diseases, and their therapeutic intervention.
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41
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Morgan RK, Psaras AM, Lassiter Q, Raymer K, Brooks TA. G-quadruplex deconvolution with physiological mimicry enhances primary screening: Optimizing the FRET Melt 2 assay. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194478. [PMID: 31891781 PMCID: PMC8922283 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2019.194478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Non-B-DNA G-quadruplex (G4) structures have shown promise as molecular targets. Modulating G4 stability for oncogenic transcriptional control is a promising avenue for the development of novel therapeutics. Extracellularly, G4 stabilization can be mediated by alkali cations, modifying water content, or with molecular crowding. Intracellularly, G4 formation is mediated by negative superhelicity and transcriptional activity, and can be stabilized with small molecules or oligonucleotides. Numerous G4-stabilizing compounds have been identified that impact promoter activity in plasmids. These compounds, however, infrequently show activity in cells, are found to have non-G4-mediated mechanisms of action, or do not demonstrate activity in vivo. The G4 field requires enhanced predictive screening methods to identify compounds with G4-mediated in vitro activity and in vivo efficacy. Using the best characterized promoter G4 to date, MYC, we examined the effects of varying annealing conditions (rate of cool down and number of heat/cool cycles), co-solvents (glucose, acetonitrile, polyethylene glycol, dextran sulfate, sucrose, ficoll-70, glycerol) and nucleoplasm on G4 formation and compound screening. We observed a marked decrease in hit rates when shifting from simple buffer conditions to include potassium and glycerol, and utilizing two or more rapid annealing cycles; the difference in hit compounds coincides with previous findings of active, inactive, and non-G4-mediated activity, including NSC338258, Quindoline i, and TMPyP4; with these changes, we describe a modification of the primary FRET Melt screening assay - the FRET Melt2. This understanding of physiological principles governing the above G4 formation will better inform future drug discovery efforts for this and other oncogenic promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhianna K Morgan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America; School of Pharmacy, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, United States of America
| | - Alexandra Maria Psaras
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, United States of America
| | - Quinea Lassiter
- School of Pharmacy, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, United States of America; Department of Microbiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States of America
| | - Kelsey Raymer
- School of Pharmacy, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, United States of America
| | - Tracy A Brooks
- School of Pharmacy, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, United States of America; School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 13902, United States of America.
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42
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G-Quadruplex Binders Induce Immunogenic Cell Death Markers in Aggressive Breast Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111797. [PMID: 31731707 PMCID: PMC6895816 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: DNA G-quadruplex (G4) structures represent potential anti-cancer targets. In this study, we compared the effect of two G4-targeting compounds, C066-3108 and the gold standard BRACO-19. Methods: In breast and prostate cancer cells, cytotoxicity induced by both molecules was measured by a sulforhodamine B assay. In breast cancer cells, cycle, apoptosis, the formation of G4 structures, calreticulin and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), as well as T cell activation, were analyzed by flow cytometry and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) by luminescence. Results: Both ligands inhibited cell survival and induced DNA damage. In MCF-7 cells, G4 ligands increased the subG0/G1 phase of the cell cycle inducing apoptosis and reduced intracellular ATP. In untreated MCF-7 cells, we observed a slight presence of G4 structures associated with the G2/M phase. In MDA-MB231 cells, G4 ligands decreased the G1 and enhanced the G2/M phase. We observed a decrease of intracellular ATP, calreticulin cell surface exposure and an increase of HMGB1, accompanied by T cell activation. Both compounds induced G4 structure formation in the subG0/G1 phase. Conclusions: Our data report similar effects for both compounds and the first evidence that G4 ligands induce the release of danger signals associated with immunogenic cell death and induction of T cell activation.
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Lee YH, Chen YY, Yeh YL, Wang YJ, Chen RJ. Stilbene Compounds Inhibit Tumor Growth by the Induction of Cellular Senescence and the Inhibition of Telomerase Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112716. [PMID: 31159515 PMCID: PMC6600253 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence is a state of cell cycle arrest characterized by a distinct morphology, gene expression pattern, and secretory phenotype. It can be triggered by multiple mechanisms, including those involved in telomere shortening, the accumulation of DNA damage, epigenetic pathways, and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), and so on. In current cancer therapy, cellular senescence has emerged as a potent tumor suppression mechanism that restrains proliferation in cells at risk for malignant transformation. Therefore, compounds that stimulate the growth inhibition effects of senescence while limiting its detrimental effects are believed to have great clinical potential. In this review article, we first review the current knowledge of the pro- and antitumorigeneic functions of senescence and summarize the key roles of telomerase in the regulation of senescence in tumors. Second, we review the current literature regarding the anticancer effects of stilbene compounds that are mediated by the targeting of telomerase and cell senescence. Finally, we provide future perspectives on the clinical utilization of stilbene compounds, especially resveratrol and pterostilbene, as novel cancer therapeutic remedies. We conclude and propose that stilbene compounds may induce senescence and may potentially be used as the therapeutic or adjuvant agents for cancers with high telomerase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hsuan Lee
- Department of Food Safety/Hygiene and Risk Management, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70428, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Ying Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70428, Taiwan.
| | - Ya-Ling Yeh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70428, Taiwan.
| | - Ying-Jan Wang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70428, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Rong-Jane Chen
- Department of Food Safety/Hygiene and Risk Management, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70428, Taiwan.
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Morais KDS, Arcanjo DDS, Faria Lopes GP, Silva GG, Mota THA, Gabriel TR, Rabello Ramos DDA, Silva FP, Oliveira DM. Long‐term in vitro treatment with telomerase inhibitor MST‐312 induces resistance by selecting long telomeres cells. Cell Biochem Funct 2019; 37:273-280. [DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karollyne da Silva Morais
- Multidisciplinary Laboratory of Human HealthUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology of CancerUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
| | | | - Giselle Pinto Faria Lopes
- Biotechnology DepartmentInstituto de Estudos do Mar Almirante Paulo Moreira (IEAPM), Arraial do Cabo, RJ, Brazil e Research coordination, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA) Rio de Janeiro Brazil
| | | | - Tales Henrique Andrade Mota
- Multidisciplinary Laboratory of Human HealthUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology of CancerUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
| | | | | | - Fábio Pittella Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology of CancerUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
| | - Diêgo Madureira Oliveira
- Multidisciplinary Laboratory of Human HealthUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology of CancerUniversity of Brasilia Brasília Brazil
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Binding of BRACO19 to a Telomeric G-Quadruplex DNA Probed by All-Atom Molecular Dynamics Simulations with Explicit Solvent. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24061010. [PMID: 30871220 PMCID: PMC6471034 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24061010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although BRACO19 is a potent G-quadruplex binder, its potential for clinical usage is hindered by its low selectivity towards DNA G-quadruplex over duplex. High-resolution structures of BRACO19 in complex with neither single-stranded telomeric DNA G-quadruplexes nor B-DNA duplex are available. In this study, the binding pathway of BRACO19 was probed by 27.5 µs molecular dynamics binding simulations with a free ligand (BRACO19) to a DNA duplex and three different topological folds of the human telomeric DNA G-quadruplex (parallel, anti-parallel and hybrid). The most stable binding modes were identified as end stacking and groove binding for the DNA G-quadruplexes and duplex, respectively. Among the three G-quadruplex topologies, the MM-GBSA binding energy analysis suggested that BRACO19′s binding to the parallel scaffold was most energetically favorable. The two lines of conflicting evidence plus our binding energy data suggest conformation-selection mechanism: the relative population shift of three scaffolds upon BRACO19 binding (i.e., an increase of population of parallel scaffold, a decrease of populations of antiparallel and/or hybrid scaffold). This hypothesis appears to be consistent with the fact that BRACO19 was specifically designed based on the structural requirements of the parallel scaffold and has since proven effective against a variety of cancer cell lines as well as toward a number of scaffolds. In addition, this binding mode is only slightly more favorable than BRACO19s binding to the duplex, explaining the low binding selectivity of BRACO19 to G-quadruplexes over duplex DNA. Our detailed analysis suggests that BRACO19′s groove binding mode may not be stable enough to maintain a prolonged binding event and that the groove binding mode may function as an intermediate state preceding a more energetically favorable end stacking pose; base flipping played an important role in enhancing binding interactions, an integral feature of an induced fit binding mechanism.
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46
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Small Molecule Fluorescent Probes for G- Quadruplex Visualization as Potential Cancer Theranostic Agents. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24040752. [PMID: 30791494 PMCID: PMC6412342 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24040752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes have gained prominence over the past two decades for their role in gene regulation, control of anti-tumour activity and ageing. The physiological relevance and significance of these non-canonical structures in the context of cancer has been reviewed several times. Putative roles of G-quadruplexes in cancer prognosis and pathogenesis have spurred the search for small molecule ligands that are capable of binding and modulating the effect of such structures. On a related theme, small molecule fluorescent probes have emerged that are capable of selective recognition of G-quadruplex structures. These have opened up the possibility of direct visualization and tracking of such structures. In this review we outline recent developments on G-quadruplex specific small molecule fluorescent probes for visualizing G-quadruplexes. The molecules represent a variety of structural scaffolds, mechanism of quadruplex-recognition and fluorescence signal transduction. Quadruplex selectivity and in vivo imaging potential of these molecules places them uniquely as quadruplex-theranostic agents in the predominantly cancer therapeutic context of quadruplex-selective ligands.
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Shishkin SS, Kovalev LI, Pashintseva NV, Kovaleva MA, Lisitskaya K. Heterogeneous Nuclear Ribonucleoproteins Involved in the Functioning of Telomeres in Malignant Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E745. [PMID: 30744200 PMCID: PMC6387250 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are structurally and functionally distinct proteins containing specific domains and motifs that enable the proteins to bind certain nucleotide sequences, particularly those found in human telomeres. In human malignant cells (HMCs), hnRNP-A1-the most studied hnRNP-is an abundant multifunctional protein that interacts with telomeric DNA and affects telomerase function. In addition, it is believed that other hnRNPs in HMCs may also be involved in the maintenance of telomere length. Accordingly, these proteins are considered possible participants in the processes associated with HMC immortalization. In our review, we discuss the results of studies on different hnRNPs that may be crucial to solving molecular oncological problems and relevant to further investigations of these proteins in HMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey S Shishkin
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt, 33, bld. 2, 119071 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Leonid I Kovalev
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt, 33, bld. 2, 119071 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Natalya V Pashintseva
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt, 33, bld. 2, 119071 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Marina A Kovaleva
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt, 33, bld. 2, 119071 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Ksenia Lisitskaya
- Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt, 33, bld. 2, 119071 Moscow, Russia.
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Developing Novel G-Quadruplex Ligands: from Interaction with Nucleic Acids to Interfering with Nucleic Acid⁻Protein Interaction. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24030396. [PMID: 30678288 PMCID: PMC6384609 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24030396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplex is a special secondary structure of nucleic acids in guanine-rich sequences of genome. G-quadruplexes have been proved to be involved in the regulation of replication, DNA damage repair, and transcription and translation of oncogenes or other cancer-related genes. Therefore, targeting G-quadruplexes has become a novel promising anti-tumor strategy. Different kinds of small molecules targeting the G-quadruplexes have been designed, synthesized, and identified as potential anti-tumor agents, including molecules directly bind to the G-quadruplex and molecules interfering with the binding between the G-quadruplex structures and related binding proteins. This review will explore the feasibility of G-quadruplex ligands acting as anti-tumor drugs, from basis to application. Meanwhile, since helicase is the most well-defined G-quadruplex-related protein, the most extensive research on the relationship between helicase and G-quadruplexes, and its meaning in drug design, is emphasized.
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Sullivan HJ, Readmond C, Radicella C, Persad V, Fasano TJ, Wu C. Binding of Telomestatin, TMPyP4, BSU6037, and BRACO19 to a Telomeric G-Quadruplex-Duplex Hybrid Probed by All-Atom Molecular Dynamics Simulations with Explicit Solvent. ACS OMEGA 2018; 3:14788-14806. [PMID: 30555989 PMCID: PMC6289566 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b01574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A promising anticancer therapeutic strategy is the stabilization of telomeric G-quadruplexes using G-quadruplex-binding small molecules. Although many G-quadruplex-specific ligands have been developed, their low potency and selectivity to G-quadruplexes over duplex remains unsolved. Recently, a crystal structure of a telomeric 3' quadruplex-duplex hybrid was reported and the quadruplex-duplex interface was suggested to a good target to address the issues. However, there are no high-resolution complex structures reported for G-quadruplex ligands except for a docked BSU6037. In this study, molecular dynamic (MD) binding simulations with a free ligand were used to study binding poses and dynamics of four representative ligands: telomestatin, TMPyP4, BSU6037, and BRACO19. The MD data showed that BSU6037 was able to fully intercalate into the interface whereas TMPyP4 and BRACO19 could only maintain partial intercalation into the interface and telomestatin only binds at the quadruplex and duplex ends. Both linear ligands, BSU6037 and BRACO19, were able to interact with the interface, yet they were not selective over duplex DNA. The DNA geometry, binding modes, and binding pathways were systematically characterized, and the binding energy was calculated and compared for each system. The interaction of the ligands to the interface was by the means of an induced-fit binding mechanism rather than a lock-key mechanism, consisting of the DNA unfolding at the interface to allow entrance of the drug and then the refolding and repacking of the DNA and the ligand to further stabilize the G-quadruplex. On the basis of the findings in this study, modifications were suggested to optimize the interface binding for TMPyp4 and telomestatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holli-Joi Sullivan
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
| | - Carolyn Readmond
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
| | - Christina Radicella
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
| | - Victoria Persad
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
| | - Thomas J. Fasano
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
| | - Chun Wu
- Chemistry
& Biochemistry and Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028, United States
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50
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Carella A, Roviello V, Iannitti R, Palumbo R, La Manna S, Marasco D, Trifuoggi M, Diana R, Roviello GN. Evaluating the biological properties of synthetic 4-nitrophenyl functionalized benzofuran derivatives with telomeric DNA binding and antiproliferative activities. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 121:77-88. [PMID: 30261256 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Four 4-nitrophenyl-functionalized benzofuran (BF1, BF2) and benzodifuran (BDF1, BDF2) compounds were synthesized by a convenient route based on the Craven reaction. All the compounds underwent a detailed chemical-physical characterization to evaluate their structural, thermal and optical properties. An investigation on the therapeutic potential of the reported compounds was performed by analyzing their antiproliferative activity on prostatic tumour cells (PC-3). In both classes of compounds, anticancer potential is in direct correlation with the lipophilicity. From our study it emerged that antiproliferative activity was higher for benzofuran derivatives as compared to benzodifuran systems. Moreover, we report a mechanistic study relative to the most promising molecule, i.e. the apolar benzofuran BF1, that relates the antiproliferative properties found in our investigation to its ability to bind telomeric DNA (proven by CD and fluorescence techniques on tel22 G4 DNA), and highlights its unexpected impact on cell cycle progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Carella
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Chemical Sciences, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Roviello
- Analytical Chemistry for the Environment and CeSMA (Advanced Metrologic Service Center), University of Naples Federico II, Corso N. Protopisani, 80146 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Iannitti
- CNR, Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging - (Via Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters), 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosanna Palumbo
- CNR, Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging - (Via Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters), 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara La Manna
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Marasco
- CNR, Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging - (Via Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters), 80134 Naples, Italy; University of Naples Federico II, Department of Pharmacy, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Chemical Sciences, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosita Diana
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Chemical Sciences, Via Cintia 21, I-80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni N Roviello
- CNR, Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging - (Via Mezzocannone Site and Headquarters), 80134 Naples, Italy.
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