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Chen C, Pan Y, Yang X, Li H, Cai X, He S, Wang Q, Yang Y, Zheng R, Li H, Yuan S, Dong X, Samarawickrama PN, Zi M, He Y, Zhang X. Liver-targeting chimeras as a potential modality for the treatment of liver diseases. J Control Release 2024; 374:627-638. [PMID: 39208934 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.08.044] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Liver diseases pose significant challenges to global public health. In the realm of drug discovery and development, overcoming 'on-target off-tissue' effects remains a substantial barrier for various diseases. In this study, we have pioneered a Liver-Targeting Chimera (LIVTAC) approach using a proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) molecule coupled to the liver-specific asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) through an innovative linker attachment strategy for the precise induction of target protein degradation within the liver. As a proof-of-concept study, we designed XZ1606, a mammalian bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET)-targeting LIVTAC agent, which not only demonstrated enduring tumor suppression (over 2 months) in combination with sorafenib but also an improved safety profile, notably ameliorating the incidence of thrombocytopenia, a common and severe on-target dose-limiting toxic effect associated with conventional BET inhibitors. These encouraging results highlight the potential of LIVTAC as a versatile platform for addressing a broad spectrum of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjie Chen
- Drug Discovery & Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiqin Li
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xinhui Cai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengyuan He
- Drug Discovery & Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Yiwen Yang
- Drug Discovery & Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Runzi Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Huiwen Li
- Drug Discovery & Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shengjie Yuan
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Priyadarshani Nadeeshika Samarawickrama
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Meiting Zi
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Yonghan He
- Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Drug Discovery & Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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2
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Kamaraj R, Ghosh S, Das S, Sen S, Kumar P, Majumdar M, Dasgupta R, Mukherjee S, Das S, Ghose I, Pavek P, Raja Karuppiah MP, Chuturgoon AA, Anand K. Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) for Immunotherapy: Understanding Proteolysis Targeting Chimera-Driven Ubiquitin-Proteasome Interactions. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:1089-1115. [PMID: 38990186 PMCID: PMC11342303 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation or TPD, is rapidly emerging as a treatment that utilizes small molecules to degrade proteins that cause diseases. TPD allows for the selective removal of disease-causing proteins, including proteasome-mediated degradation, lysosome-mediated degradation, and autophagy-mediated degradation. This approach has shown great promise in preclinical studies and is now being translated to treat numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, infectious diseases, and cancer. This review discusses the latest advances in TPD and its potential as a new chemical modality for immunotherapy, with a special focus on the innovative applications and cutting-edge research of PROTACs (Proteolysis TArgeting Chimeras) and their efficient translation from scientific discovery to technological achievements. Our review also addresses the significant obstacles and potential prospects in this domain, while also offering insights into the future of TPD for immunotherapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajamanikkam Kamaraj
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University in Prague, Heyrovskeho 1203, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Subhrojyoti Ghosh
- Department
of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology
Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| | - Souvadra Das
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Shinjini Sen
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Priyanka Kumar
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Madhurima Majumdar
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Renesa Dasgupta
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Sampurna Mukherjee
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Shrimanti Das
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Indrilla Ghose
- Department
of Biotechnology, Heritage Institute of
Technology, Kolkata 700107, India
| | - Petr Pavek
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University in Prague, Heyrovskeho 1203, 50005 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Muruga Poopathi Raja Karuppiah
- Department
of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periye, Kasaragod District, Kerala 671320, India
| | - Anil A. Chuturgoon
- Discipline
of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical
Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Krishnan Anand
- Department
of Chemical Pathology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State 9300, South Africa
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3
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Ji Y, Chen W, Wang X. Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain Protein 2 in Multiple Human Diseases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:277-288. [PMID: 38565308 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal domain protein 2 (BRD2), a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) protein family, is a crucial epigenetic regulator with significant function in various diseases and cellular processes. The central function of BRD2 is modulating gene transcription by binding to acetylated lysine residues on histones and transcription factors. This review highlights key findings on BRD2 in recent years, emphasizing its roles in maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. BRD2's diverse functions are underscored by its involvement in diseases such as malignant tumors, neurologic disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic diseases, and virus infection. Notably, the potential role of BRD2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target is discussed in the context of various diseases. Although pan inhibitors targeting the BET family have shown promise in preclinical studies, a critical need exists for the development of highly selective BRD2 inhibitors. In conclusion, this review offers insights into the multifaceted nature of BRD2 and calls for continued research to unravel its intricate mechanisms and harness its therapeutic potential. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: BRD2 is involved in the occurrence and development of diseases through maintaining genomic stability, influencing chromatin spatial organization, and participating in transcriptional regulation. Targeting BRD2 through protein degradation-targeting complexes technology is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for malignant cancer and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikang Ji
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology; Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology
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Yin C, Jia S, Yang X, Wu L. Discovery of potent and novel dual NAMPT/BRD4 inhibitors for efficient treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 271:116444. [PMID: 38691889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The NAPRT-induced increase in NAD+ levels was proposed as a mechanism contributing to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) resistance to NAMPT inhibitors. Thus, concurrently targeting NAMPT and NAPRT could be considered to overcome drug resistance. A BRD4 inhibitor downregulates the expression of NAPRT in HCC, and the combination of NAMPT inhibitors with BRD4 inhibitors simultaneously blocks NAD+ generation via salvage and the PH synthesis pathway. Moreover, the combination of the two agents significantly downregulated the expression of tumor-promoting genes and strongly promoted apoptosis. The present work identified various NAMPT/BRD4 dual inhibitors based on the multitargeted drug rationale. Among them, compound A2, which demonstrated the strongest effect, exhibited potent inhibition of NAMPT and BRD4 (IC50 = 35 and 58 nM, respectively). It significantly suppressed the growth and migration of HCC cells and facilitated their apoptosis. Furthermore, compound A2 also manifested a robust anticancer effect in HCCLM3 xenograft mouse models, with no apparent toxic effects. Our findings in this study provide an effective approach to target NAD+ metabolism for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjia Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Shuting Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China; Jincheng People's Hospital, Jincheng 048026, China
| | - Xiaojuan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Liqiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
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5
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Yang X, Yang C, Zhang S, Geng H, Zhu AX, Bernards R, Qin W, Fan J, Wang C, Gao Q. Precision treatment in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:180-197. [PMID: 38350421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed significant advances in the systemic treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, the newly developed treatment strategies have not achieved universal success and HCC patients frequently exhibit therapeutic resistance to these therapies. Precision treatment represents a paradigm shift in cancer treatment in recent years. This approach utilizes the unique molecular characteristics of individual patient to personalize treatment modalities, aiming to maximize therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. Although precision treatment has shown significant success in multiple cancer types, its application in HCC remains in its infancy. In this review, we discuss key aspects of precision treatment in HCC, including therapeutic biomarkers, molecular classifications, and the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. We also propose future directions, ranging from revolutionizing current treatment methodologies to personalizing therapy through functional assays, which will accelerate the next phase of advancements in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xupeng Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Immune Regulation in Cancer Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haigang Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Andrew X Zhu
- I-Mab Biopharma, Shanghai, China; Jiahui International Cancer Center, Jiahui Health, Shanghai, China
| | - René Bernards
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Oncode Institute, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wenxin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Fan
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Cun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Zhang M, Wei T, Guo D. The role of abnormal ubiquitination in hepatocellular carcinoma pathology. Cell Signal 2024; 114:110994. [PMID: 38036196 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is known for its high incidence and fatality rate. Over the years, therapeutic strategies for primary liver cancer have advanced significantly. Nonetheless, a substantial number of patients have not benefited from these methods, underscoring the pressing need for new and effective treatments for primary liver cancer. Ubiquitination is a critical post-translational modification that enables proteins to fulfill their normal biological functions and maintain their expression stability within cells. Importantly, increasing evidence suggests that the progression of liver cancer cells is often accompanied by disruptions in protein ubiquitination and deubiquitination processes. In this comprehensive review, we have compiled pertinent research about dysregulated ubiquitination in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to broaden our understanding in this field. We elucidate the connections between the ubiquitination proteasome system, deubiquitination, and HCC. Furthermore, we shed light on the role of ubiquitination in cells situated within the tumor microenvironment of HCC including its involvement in mediating the activation of oncogenic pathways, reprogramming metabolic processes, and perturbing normal cellular functions. In conclusion, targeting the dysregulation of ubiquitination in HCC holds promise as a prospective and complementary therapeutic approach to existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Tingju Wei
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Danfeng Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
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7
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Dai XJ, Ji SK, Fu MJ, Liu GZ, Liu HM, Wang SP, Shen L, Wang N, Herdewijn P, Zheng YC, Wang SQ, Chen XB. Degraders in epigenetic therapy: PROTACs and beyond. Theranostics 2024; 14:1464-1499. [PMID: 38389844 PMCID: PMC10879860 DOI: 10.7150/thno.92526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics refers to the reversible process through which changes in gene expression occur without changing the nucleotide sequence of DNA. The process is currently gaining prominence as a pivotal objective in the treatment of cancers and other ailments. Numerous drugs that target epigenetic mechanisms have obtained approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the therapeutic intervention of diverse diseases; many have drawbacks, such as limited applicability, toxicity, and resistance. Since the discovery of the first proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in 2001, studies on targeted protein degradation (TPD)-encompassing PROTACs, molecular glue (MG), hydrophobic tagging (HyT), degradation TAG (dTAG), Trim-Away, a specific and non-genetic inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP)-dependent protein eraser (SNIPER), antibody-PROTACs (Ab-PROTACs), and other lysosome-based strategies-have achieved remarkable progress. In this review, we comprehensively highlight the small-molecule degraders beyond PROTACs that could achieve the degradation of epigenetic proteins (including bromodomain-containing protein-related targets, histone acetylation/deacetylation-related targets, histone methylation/demethylation related targets, and other epigenetic targets) via proteasomal or lysosomal pathways. The present difficulties and forthcoming prospects in this domain are also deliberated upon, which may be valuable for medicinal chemists when developing more potent, selective, and drug-like epigenetic drugs for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Jie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shi-Kun Ji
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Meng-Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gao-Zhi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shao-Peng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Liang Shen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ning Wang
- The School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yi-Chao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sai-Qi Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Chen
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
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8
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Sharma D, Hager CG, Shang L, Tran L, Zhu Y, Ma A, Magnuson B, Lesko MW, Wicha MS, Burness ML. The BET degrader ZBC260 suppresses stemness and tumorigenesis and promotes differentiation in triple-negative breast cancer by disrupting inflammatory signaling. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:144. [PMID: 37968653 PMCID: PMC10648675 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01715-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are resistant to standard therapies, facilitate tumor dissemination, and contribute to relapse and progression. Super-enhancers are regulators of stemness, and BET proteins, which are critical for super-enhancer function, are a potential therapeutic target. Here, we investigated the effects of BET proteins on the regulation of breast cancer stemness using the pan-BET degrader ZBC260. METHODS We evaluated the effect of ZBC260 on CSCs in TNBC cell lines. We assessed the effect of ZBC260 on cellular viability and tumor growth and measured its effects on cancer stemness. We used RNA sequencing and stemness index to determine the global transcriptomic changes in CSCs and bulk cells and further validated our findings by qPCR, western blot, and ELISA. RESULTS ZBC260 potently inhibited TNBC growth both in vitro and in vivo. ZBC260 reduced stemness as measured by cell surface marker expression, ALDH activity, tumorsphere number, and stemness index while increasing differentiated cells. GSEA analysis indicated preferential downregulation of stemness-associated and inflammatory genes by ZBC260 in ALDH+ CSCs. CONCLUSIONS The BET degrader ZBC260 is an efficient degrader of BET proteins that suppresses tumor progression and decreases CSCs through the downregulation of inflammatory genes and pathways. Our findings support the further development of BET degraders alone and in combination with other therapeutics as CSC targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeksha Sharma
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Cody G Hager
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Li Shang
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lam Tran
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, NCRC 26-319S, SPC 2800, 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yongyou Zhu
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Elevate Bio, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Aihui Ma
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Brian Magnuson
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Matthew W Lesko
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Max S Wicha
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Monika L Burness
- Department, Unit, and Laboratories, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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9
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Liu F, Liao Z, Zhang Z. MYC in liver cancer: mechanisms and targeted therapy opportunities. Oncogene 2023; 42:3303-3318. [PMID: 37833558 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02861-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
MYC, a major oncogenic transcription factor, regulates target genes involved in various pathways such as cell proliferation, metabolism and immune evasion, playing a critical role in the tumor initiation and development in multiple types of cancer. In liver cancer, MYC and its signaling pathways undergo significant changes, exerting a profound impact on liver cancer progression, including tumor proliferation, metastasis, dedifferentiation, metabolism, immune microenvironment, and resistance to comprehensive therapies. This makes MYC an appealing target, despite it being previously considered an undruggable protein. In this review, we discuss the role and mechanisms of MYC in liver physiology, chronic liver diseases, hepatocarcinogenesis, and liver cancer progression, providing a theoretical basis for targeting MYC as an ideal therapeutic target for liver cancer. We also summarize and prospect the strategies for targeting MYC, including direct and indirect approaches to abolish the oncogenic function of MYC in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Liu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education; NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhibin Liao
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education; NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhanguo Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education; NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China.
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10
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Maity P, Chatterjee J, Patil KT, Arora S, Katiyar MK, Kumar M, Samarbakhsh A, Joshi G, Bhutani P, Chugh M, Gavande NS, Kumar R. Targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor with Molecular Degraders: State-of-the-Art and Future Opportunities. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3135-3172. [PMID: 36812395 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an oncogenic drug target and plays a critical role in several cellular functions including cancer cell growth, survival, proliferation, differentiation, and motility. Several small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been approved for targeting intracellular and extracellular domains of EGFR, respectively. However, cancer heterogeneity, mutations in the catalytic domain of EGFR, and persistent drug resistance limited their use. Different novel modalities are gaining a position in the limelight of anti-EGFR therapeutics to overcome such limitations. The current perspective reflects upon newer modalities, importantly the molecular degraders such as PROTACs, LYTACs, AUTECs, and ATTECs, etc., beginning with a snapshot of traditional and existing anti-EGFR therapies including small molecule inhibitors, mAbs, and antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). Further, a special emphasis has been made on the design, synthesis, successful applications, state-of-the-art, and emerging future opportunities of each discussed modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritam Maity
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Joydeep Chatterjee
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Kiran T Patil
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Sahil Arora
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Madhurendra K Katiyar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Manvendra Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
| | - Amirreza Samarbakhsh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Gaurav Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal (A Central) University, Srinagar 246174, Dist. Garhwal (Uttarakhand), India
| | | | - Manoj Chugh
- In Vitro Diagnostics, Transasia BioMedical Pvt. Ltd. 400072 Mumbai, India
| | - Navnath S Gavande
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States.,Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Raj Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, 151401 Bathinda, India
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11
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Makki AA, Ibraheem W, Alzain AA. Cytosporone E analogues as BRD4 inhibitors for cancer treatment: molecular docking and molecular dynamic investigations. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:12643-12653. [PMID: 36644887 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2167122] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is considered one of the worldwide life-threatening and leading causes of human mortality. In 2020, 19,292,789 cancer cases and 9,958,133 cancer deaths have been estimated worldwide. Therefore, efforts have been devoted to discover novel anticancer agents. Bromodomains have a vital role in the regulation of transcription. Many reports have shown that bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is an important target for cancer therapeutics. In this study, several in silico approaches were utilized to discover new inhibitors against the BRD4 protein using the Schrodinger suite. A library of 27 cytosporone E derivatives was docked into the active site of the BRD4 protein. Docked ligands showed docking scores ranging between -11.289 to -3.992 Kcal/mol. Ligands 1-4 showed better binding affinities with docking scores ranging from -11.289 to -8.917 Kcal/mol compared to the reference ligand BI-2536 (-8.426 Kcal/mol). These ligands displayed favorable MM-GBSA free binding energy. Also, ligands 1-4 were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations for 100 ns to get insight into the ligand-binding stability. These compounds exhibited an average RMSD below 2.8 Å, indicating the stability of the compounds with BRD4 protein. Further, Moreover, ligands 1-3 displayed favorable AMDET properties (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity). These new compounds might be potential leads to combat cancer.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa A Makki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Walaa Ibraheem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Abdulrahim A Alzain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
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12
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Ding M, Shao Y, Sun D, Meng S, Zang Y, Zhou Y, Li J, Lu W, Zhu S. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of BRD4 degraders. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 78:117134. [PMID: 36563515 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic proteins are one of the important targets in the current research fields of cancer therapy. A family of bromodomain-containing (BRD) and extra terminal domain (BET) proteins act as epigenetic readers to regulate the expression of key oncogenes and anti-apoptotic proteins. Recently, although BET degraders based on PROTAC technology have achieved significant antitumor effects, the lack of selectivity for BET protein degradation has not been fully addressed. Herein, a series of small molecule BRD4 PROTACs were designed and synthesized. Most of the degraders were effective in inhibiting MM.1S and MV-4-11 cell lines, especially in MV-4-11. Among them, degrader 8b could induce the degradation of BRD4 and exhibited a time- and concentration-dependent depletion manner and there was a significant depletion of BRD4, laying a foundation for effectively treating leukemia and multiple myeloma. Moreover, 8b could also effectively prevent the activation of MRC5 cells by inducing the degradation of BRD4 protein, which preliminarily proves that the BRD4 degrader based on the PROTAC concept has great potential for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Taken together, these findings laid a foundation for BRD4 degraders as an effective strategy for treating related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Ding
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China
| | - Yingying Shao
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Danwen Sun
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Suorina Meng
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, PR China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201203, PR China
| | - Yi Zang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, PR China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201203, PR China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, PR China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, PR China
| | - Jia Li
- National Center for Drug Screening, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, PR China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, PR China; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, PR China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China.
| | - Shulei Zhu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, PR China.
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13
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Garcia G, Bar‐Ziv R, Averbukh M, Dasgupta N, Dutta N, Zhang H, Fan W, Moaddeli D, Tsui CK, Castro Torres T, Alcala A, Moehle EA, Hoang S, Shalem O, Adams PD, Thorwald MA, Higuchi‐Sanabria R. Large-scale genetic screens identify BET-1 as a cytoskeleton regulator promoting actin function and life span. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13742. [PMID: 36404134 PMCID: PMC9835578 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton is a three-dimensional scaffold of proteins that is a regulatory, energyconsuming network with dynamic properties to shape the structure and function of the cell. Proper actin function is required for many cellular pathways, including cell division, autophagy, chaperone function, endocytosis, and exocytosis. Deterioration of these processes manifests during aging and exposure to stress, which is in part due to the breakdown of the actin cytoskeleton. However, the regulatory mechanisms involved in preservation of cytoskeletal form and function are not well-understood. Here, we performed a multipronged, cross-organismal screen combining a whole-genome CRISPR-Cas9 screen in human fibroblasts with in vivo Caenorhabditis elegans synthetic lethality screening. We identified the bromodomain protein, BET-1, as a key regulator of actin function and longevity. Overexpression of bet-1 preserves actin function at late age and promotes life span and healthspan in C. elegans. These beneficial effects are mediated through actin preservation by the transcriptional regulator function of BET-1. Together, our discovery assigns a key role for BET-1 in cytoskeletal health, highlighting regulatory cellular networks promoting cytoskeletal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilberto Garcia
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Raz Bar‐Ziv
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteThe University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Maxim Averbukh
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Nirmalya Dasgupta
- Aging, Cancer and Immuno‐oncology ProgramSanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery InstituteLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Naibedya Dutta
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Hanlin Zhang
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteThe University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Wudi Fan
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteThe University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Darius Moaddeli
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - C. Kimberly Tsui
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteThe University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Toni Castro Torres
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Athena Alcala
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Erica A. Moehle
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteThe University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sally Hoang
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ophir Shalem
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Peter D. Adams
- Aging, Cancer and Immuno‐oncology ProgramSanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery InstituteLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Max A. Thorwald
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ryo Higuchi‐Sanabria
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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14
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Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) in Cancer Therapy: Present and Future. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248828. [PMID: 36557960 PMCID: PMC9785308 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) is an innovative technique for the selective degradation of target proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Compared with traditional protein inhibitor drugs, PROTACs exhibit advantages in the efficacy and selectivity of and in overcoming drug resistance in cancer therapy, providing new insights into the discovery of anti-cancer drugs. In the last two decades, many PROTAC molecules have been developed to induce the degradation of cancer-related targets, and they have been subjected to clinical trials. Here, we comprehensively review the historical milestones and latest updates in PROTAC technology. We focus on the structures and mechanisms of PROTACs and their application in targeting tumor-related targets. We have listed several representative PROTACs based on CRBN, VHL, MDM2, or cIAP1 E3 ligases, and PROTACs that are undergoing anti-cancer clinical trials. In addition, the limitations of the current research, as well as the future research directions are described to improve the PROTAC design and development for cancer therapy.
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15
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Hill-Payne B, Dilones S, Burslem G. The importance of controls in targeted protein degradation: Determining mechanism. Methods Enzymol 2022; 681:215-240. [PMID: 36764758 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation has emerged as a useful approach for both basic biological investigations and therapeutic development. However, it can provide confounding results if not properly controlled. In this manuscript, we discuss the importance of proper controls and provide a detailed protocol for their application to proteolysis targeting chimera mediated degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Hill-Payne
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sebastian Dilones
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - George Burslem
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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16
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Proteolysis-targeting chimeras: A promising technique in cancer therapy for gaining insights into tumor development. Cancer Lett 2022; 539:215716. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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17
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Järvenpää J, Rahnasto-Rilla M, Lahtela-Kakkonen M, Küblbeck J. Profiling the regulatory interplay of BET bromodomains and Sirtuins in cancer cell lines. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112652. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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18
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Dai M, Radhakrishnan S, Li R, Tan R, Yan K, Fan G, Liu M. Targeted Protein Degradation: An Important Tool for Drug Discovery for "Undruggable" Tumor Transcription Factors. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2022; 21:15330338221095950. [PMID: 35466792 PMCID: PMC9047787 DOI: 10.1177/15330338221095950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional small-molecule drugs (SMDs) are compounds characterized by low
molecular weight, high cell permeability, and high selectivity. In clinical
translation, SMDs are regarded as good candidates for oral drug formulation. SMD
inhibitors play an important role in cancer treatment; however, resistance and
low effectiveness have been major bottlenecks in clinical application.
Generally, only 20% of cell proteins can potentially be targeted and have been
developed as SMDs; thus, some types of tumor targets are considered
“undruggable.” Among these are transcription factors (TFs), an important class
of proteins that regulate the occurrence, formation, and development of tumors.
It is difficult for SMDs and macromolecular drugs to identify bioactive sites in
TFs and hence for use as pharmacological inhibitors in targeting TF proteins.
For this reason, technologies that enable targeted protein degradation, such as
proteolysis-targeting chimera or molecular glues, could serve as a potential
tool to solve these conundrums.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, 89674Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sridhar Radhakrishnan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, 37580National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruirong Tan
- Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, 598782Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Kuo Yan
- Institute of Cell and Neurobiology, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gang Fan
- Department of Urology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,477382The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Pathology, 1861Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Tomaselli D, Mautone N, Mai A, Rotili D. Recent advances in epigenetic proteolysis targeting chimeras (Epi-PROTACs). Eur J Med Chem 2020; 207:112750. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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20
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Li Z, Lim SL, Tao Y, Li X, Xie Y, Yang C, Zhang Z, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Cao X, Wang H, Qian G, Wu Y, Li M, Fang F, Liu Y, Fu M, Ding X, Zhu Z, Lv H, Lu J, Xiao S, Hu S, Pan J. PROTAC Bromodomain Inhibitor ARV-825 Displays Anti-Tumor Activity in Neuroblastoma by Repressing Expression of MYCN or c-Myc. Front Oncol 2020; 10:574525. [PMID: 33324552 PMCID: PMC7726414 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.574525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the most common solid tumors in childhood. To date, targeting MYCN, a well-established driver gene in high-risk neuroblastoma, is still challenging. In recent years, inhibition of bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) proteins shows great potential in multiple of Myc-driven tumors. ARV-825 is a novel BET inhibitor using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology which degrades target proteins by the proteasome. In this study, we investigated the effect of ARV-825 in neuroblastoma in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that ARV-825 treatment robustly induced proliferative suppression, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in NB cells. Moreover, ARV-825 efficiently depleted BET protein expression, subsequently repressing the expression of MYCN or c-Myc. In the NB xenograft model, ARV-825 profoundly reduced tumor growth and led to the downregulation of BRD4 and MYCN expression in mice. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that PROTAC BET inhibitor is an efficient way to achieve MYCN/c-Myc manipulation, and ARV-825 can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiheng Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Su Lin Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Michael's Medical Center, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Xie
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - You Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xianbing Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Xu Cao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hairong Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Guanghui Qian
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mei Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mingcui Fu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xin Ding
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhenghong Zhu
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haitao Lv
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shaoyan Hu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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21
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Tian T, Guo T, Zhen W, Zou J, Li F. BET degrader inhibits tumor progression and stem-like cell growth via Wnt/β-catenin signaling repression in glioma cells. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:900. [PMID: 33093476 PMCID: PMC7582157 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03117-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Based on their histological appearance, gliomas are a very common primary tumor type of the brain and are classified into grades, Grade I to Grade IV, of the World Health Organization. Treatment failure is due to the cancer stem cells (CSC) phenotype maintenance and self-renewal. BET degraders such as ZBC260 represents a novel class of BET inhibitors that act by inducing BET proteins degradation. This study explores the mode of action and effects of ZBC260 in vivo and in vitro against glioma. By inhibiting cell proliferation and inducting cell cycle arrest, the fact that glioma cell lines show sensitivity to ZBC260. Notably, ZBC260 targeted glioma without side effects in vivo. In addition, the stem cell-like properties of glioma cells were inhibited upon ZBC260 treatment. When the mechanism was examined, our findings indicated that Wnt/β-catenin pathway repression is required for ZBC260-induced stem cell-like properties and tumor growth suppression. In conclusion, the growth of tumors and stem cell-like properties were inhibited by ZBC260 via Wnt/β-catenin repression, which suggests ZBC260 as a potential therapeutic agent for glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tian
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Zaozhuang Municipal Hospital, Zaozhuang City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Tongqi Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The People's Hospital of China Medical University (The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province), Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wei Zhen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The People's Hospital of China Medical University (The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province), Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jianjun Zou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The People's Hospital of China Medical University (The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province), Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Fuyong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The People's Hospital of China Medical University (The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province), Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
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22
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Takwale AD, Jo SH, Jeon YU, Kim HS, Shin CH, Lee HK, Ahn S, Lee CO, Du Ha J, Kim JH, Hwang JY. Design and characterization of cereblon-mediated androgen receptor proteolysis-targeting chimeras. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 208:112769. [PMID: 32961381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC)-mediated protein degradation is a rapidly emerging therapeutic intervention that induces the degradation of targeted proteins. Herein, we report the design and biological evaluation of a series of androgen receptor (AR) PROTAC degraders for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Predominantly, instead of thalidomide, we utilized the TD-106 scaffold, a novel cereblon (CRBN) binder that was identified in our previous study. Our results suggest that the linker position in the TD-106 CRBN binder is critical for the efficiency of AR degradation. The compounds attached to the 6-position of TD-106 promoted better degradation of AR than those at the 5- and 7-positions. Among the synthesized AR PROTACs, the representative degrader 33c (TD-802) effectively induced AR protein degradation, with a degradation concentration 50% of 12.5 nM and a maximum degradation of 93% in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. Additionally, most AR PROTAC degraders, including TD-802, displayed good liver microsomal stability and in vivo pharmacokinetic properties. Finally, we showed that TD-802 effectively inhibited tumor growth in an in vivo xenograft study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay D Takwale
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea; Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Hyun Jo
- Disease Target Structure Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong Uk Jeon
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Soo Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Univeristy, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Hoon Shin
- Department of Chemistry, Sogang Univeristy, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Kyoung Lee
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunjoo Ahn
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong Ock Lee
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Du Ha
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jeong-Hoon Kim
- Disease Target Structure Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong Yeon Hwang
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 305-606, Republic of Korea; Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
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