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Yu J, Zhao Y, Xie Y. Advances of E3 ligases in lung cancer. Biochem Biophys Rep 2024; 38:101740. [PMID: 38841185 PMCID: PMC11152895 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2024.101740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death, and the most common type of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer, which accounts for approximately 85 % of lung cancer diagnoses. Recent studies have revealed that ubiquitination acts as a crucial part of the development and progression of lung cancer. The E1-E2-E3 three-enzyme cascade has a core function in ubiquitination, so targeted adjustments of E3 ligases could be used in lung cancer treatment. Hence, we elucidate research advances in lung cancer-related E3 ligases by briefly describing the structure and categorization of E3 ligases. Here, we provide a detailed review of the mechanisms by which lung cancer-related E3 ligases modify substrate proteins and regulate signaling pathways to facilitate or suppress cancer progression. We hope to show a new perspective on targeted precision therapy for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yiqi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yue Xie
- Liaoning Academy of Chinese Medicine, Liaoning University Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
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2
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Zhang R, Xie S, Ran J, Li T. Restraining the power of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras in the cage: A necessary and important refinement for therapeutic safety. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31255. [PMID: 38501341 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) represent a significant advancement in therapeutic drug development by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system to enable targeted protein degradation, particularly impacting oncology. This review delves into the various types of PROTACs, such as peptide-based, nucleic acid-based, and small molecule PROTACs, each addressing distinct challenges in protein degradation. It also discusses innovative strategies like bridged PROTACs and conditional switch-activated PROTACs, offering precise targeting of previously "undruggable" proteins. The potential of PROTACs extends beyond oncology, with ongoing research and technological advancements needed to maximize their therapeutic potential. Future progress in this field relies on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of advanced computational tools to open new treatment avenues across various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renshuai Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Songbo Xie
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Ran
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Center for Cell Structure and Function, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Te Li
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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3
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Yang L, Jing Y, Xia X, Yin X. ARV-825 Showed Antitumor Activity against BRD4-NUT Fusion Protein by Targeting the BRD4. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2023; 2023:9904143. [PMID: 38130463 PMCID: PMC10735731 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9904143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective The bromodomain-containing 4 (BRD4) is a member of the bromodomain and extra terminal domain (BET) family, which is an important epigenetic reader. It is currently a promising oncology target. In some tumors, BET bromodomain inhibitors have demonstrated promising results. Proteolysis-targeting methods (PROTAC), which rapidly and effectively degrade BRD4, have displayed considerable potential in the treatment of tumors in recent years. The purpose of this study is to examine the potential impact of BRD4 PROTAC compounds ARV-825 on oncogene BRD4-NUT fused protein in NUT carcinoma. Methods The effectiveness of ARV-825 was evaluated at the cellular level using the cell counting kit 8 test, wound healing, cell transfection, western blotting analysis, and RNA sequencing. The effectiveness of ARV-825 was also examined in vivo using a xenograft model. Results The BRD4-NUT fusion gene was overexpressed in 3T3 cells, and the pathogenic fusion gene was simulated. The results showed that the overexpression of BRD4-NUT could promote the proliferation and migration of 3T3 cells, but the expression of BRD4 protein was degraded after the addition of the novel cereblon-based PROTAC compound ARV-825 against BRD4, resulting in inhibition of BRD4-NUT 3T3 cell proliferation and migration. Further RNA-seq analysis showed that overexpression of BRD4-NUT was accompanied by increased expression of gene (e.g., Myc, E2F, TRAFs, Wnt, Gadd45g, and Sox6) with significantly enriched pathway (e.g., small cell lung cancer, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, and breast cancer), promoted cell cycle from G 1 phase to S phase, and increased cell proliferation and migration, activated the antiapoptosisi signal, led to abnormal cell growth, and ultimately led to tumorigenesis. The addition of ARV-825 effectively rescued this process and effectively inhibited cell vitality, proliferation, and migration. In vivo studies demonstrated that treatment with ARV-825 greatly suppressed tumor growth without causing harmful side effects and downregulated the BRD4-NUT expression level. Conclusion Through the induction of BRD4 protein degradation, ARV-825 can successfully limit BRD4-NUT 3T3 cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggested that the BRD4 inhibitor ARV-825 would be an effective therapeutic strategy for treating NUT carcinoma that with the genetic feature of BRD4-NUT fusion event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
| | - Yue Jing
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
| | - Xia Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiushan Yin
- Applied Biology Laboratory, College of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang 110142, China
- Roc Rock Biotechnology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518118, China
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4
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Epp S, Chuah SM, Halasz M. Epigenetic Dysregulation in MYCN-Amplified Neuroblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17085. [PMID: 38069407 PMCID: PMC10707345 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317085] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB), a childhood cancer arising from the neural crest, poses significant clinical challenges, particularly in cases featuring amplification of the MYCN oncogene. Epigenetic factors play a pivotal role in normal neural crest and NB development, influencing gene expression patterns critical for tumorigenesis. This review delves into the multifaceted interplay between MYCN and known epigenetic modifications during NB genesis, shedding light on the intricate regulatory networks underlying the disease. We provide an extensive survey of known epigenetic mechanisms, encompassing DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs, super-enhancers (SEs), bromodomains (BET), and chromatin modifiers in MYCN-amplified (MNA) NB. These epigenetic changes collectively contribute to the dysregulated gene expression landscape observed in MNA NB. Furthermore, we review emerging therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic regulators, including histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), histone methyltransferase inhibitors (HMTi), and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi). We also discuss and summarize current drugs in preclinical and clinical trials, offering insights into their potential for improving outcomes for MNA NB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Epp
- Systems Biology Ireland, UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland; (S.E.)
| | - Shin Mei Chuah
- Systems Biology Ireland, UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland; (S.E.)
| | - Melinda Halasz
- Systems Biology Ireland, UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland; (S.E.)
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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5
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Zhang G. Prognostic clinical phenotypes associated with tumor stemness in the immune microenvironment of T-cell exhaustion for hepatocellular carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:203. [PMID: 37957420 PMCID: PMC10643807 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00819-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell exhaustion (TEX) and high heterogeneity of cancer stem cells (CSCs) are associated with progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we aim to characterize TEX-stemness-related genes (TEXSRGs) and screen for HCC patients who are more sensitive to immunotherapy. The immune cell abundance identifier (ImmuCellAI) was utilized to precisely evaluate the abundance of TEX and screen TEX-related genes. The stemness index (mRNAsi) of samples was analyzed through the one-class logistic regression (OCLR) algorithm. Application of the non-negative matrix decomposition algorithm (NMF) for subtype identification of HCC samples. The different subtypes were assessed for differences in prognosis, tumor microenvironment (TME) landscape, and immunotherapy treatment response. Then, the TEXSRGS-score, which can accurately forecast the survival outcome of HCC patients, was built by LASSO-Cox and multivariate Cox regression, and experimentally validated for the most important TEXSRGs. We also analyzed the expression of TEXSRGs and the infiltration of CD8+ T cells in clinical samples using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Based on 146 TEXSRGs, we found two distinct clinical phenotypes with different TEX infiltration abundance, tumor stemness index, enrichment pathways, mutational landscape, and immune cell infiltration through the non-negative matrix decomposition algorithm (NMF), which were confirmed in the ICGC dataset. Utilizing eight TEXSRGs linked to clinical outcome, we created a TEXSRGs-score model to further improve the clinical applicability. Patients can be divided into two groups with substantial differences in the characteristics of immune cell infiltration, TEX infiltration abundance, and survival outcomes. The results of qRT-PCR and IHC analysis showed that PAFAH1B3, ZIC2, and ESR1 were differentially expressed in HCC and normal tissues and that patients with high TEXSRGs-scores had higher TEX infiltration abundance and tumor stemness gene expression. Regarding immunotherapy reaction and immune cell infiltration, patients with various TEXSRGs-score levels had various clinical traits. The outcome and immunotherapy efficacy of patients with low TEXSRGs-score was favorable. In conclusion, we identified two clinical subtypes with different prognoses, TEX infiltration abundance, tumor cell stemness index, and immunotherapy response based on TEXSRGs, and developed and validated a TEXSRGs-score capable of accurately predicting survival outcomes in HCC patients by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. We believe that the TEXSRGs-score has prospective clinical relevance for prognostic assessment and may help physicians select prospective responders in preference to current immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Genhao Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Zhengzhou University First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.
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6
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Li XL, Xie Y, Chen YL, Zhang ZM, Tao YF, Li G, Wu D, Wang HR, Zhuo R, Pan JJ, Yu JJ, Jia SQ, Zhang Z, Feng CX, Wang JW, Fang F, Qian GH, Lu J, Hu SY, Li ZH, Pan J. The RNA polymerase II subunit B (RPB2) functions as a growth regulator in human glioblastoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 674:170-182. [PMID: 37423037 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.06.088] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis. The growth of GBM cells depends on the core transcriptional apparatus, thus rendering RNA polymerase (RNA pol) complex as a candidate therapeutic target. The RNA pol II subunit B (POLR2B) gene encodes the second largest subunit of the RNA pol II (RPB2); however, its genomic status and function in GBM remain unclear. Certain GBM data sets in cBioPortal were used for investigating the genomic status and expression of POLR2B in GBM. The function of RPB2 was analyzed following knockdown of POLR2B expression by shRNA in GBM cells. The cell counting kit-8 assay and PI staining were used for cell proliferation and cell cycle analysis. A xenograft mouse model was established to analyze the function of RPB2 in vivo. RNA sequencing was performed to analyze the RPB2-regulated genes. GO and GSEA analyses were applied to investigate the RPB2-regulated gene function and associated pathways. In the present study, the genomic alteration and overexpression of the POLR2B gene was described in glioblastoma. The data indicated that knockdown of POLR2B expression suppressed tumor cell growth of glioblastoma in vitro and in vivo. The analysis further demonstrated the identification of the RPB2-regulated gene sets and highlighted the DNA damage-inducible transcript 4 gene as the downstream target of the POLR2B gene. The present study provides evidence indicating that RPB2 functions as a growth regulator in glioblastoma and could be used as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Yi Xie
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Yan-Ling Chen
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China; School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Zi-Mu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Yan-Fang Tao
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Gen Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Di Wu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Hai-Rong Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Ran Zhuo
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Juan-Juan Yu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Si-Qi Jia
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China; School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Chen-Xi Feng
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Jian-Wei Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Guang-Hui Qian
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Shao-Yan Hu
- Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Zhi-Heng Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China; Department of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu Province, 215003, China.
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Elshazly AM, Sinanian MM, Neely V, Chakraborty E, Alshehri MA, McGrath MK, Harada H, Schoenlein PV, Gewirtz DA. BRD4 Inhibition as a Strategy to Prolong the Response to Standard of Care in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4066. [PMID: 37627092 PMCID: PMC10452571 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring malignancy in women and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths. ER+ breast cancer constitutes approximately 70% of all breast cancer cases. The standard of care for ER+ breast cancer involves estrogen antagonists such as tamoxifen or fulvestrant in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib. However, these treatments are often not curative, with disease recurrence and metastasis being responsible for patient mortality. Overexpression of the epigenetic regulator, BRD4, has been shown to be a negative prognostic indicator in breast cancer, and BET family inhibitors such as ARV-825 and ABBV-744 have garnered interest for their potential to improve and prolong the response to current therapeutic strategies. The current work examined the potential of utilizing ARV-825 and ABBV-744 to increase the effectiveness of tamoxifen or fulvestrant plus palbociclib. ARV-825 was effective in both p53 wild-type (WT) breast tumor cells and in cells lacking functional p53 either alone or in combination with tamoxifen, while the effectiveness of ABBV-744 was limited to fulvestrant plus palbociclib in p53 WT cells. These differential effects may be related to the capacity to suppress c-Myc, a downstream target of BRD4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Elshazly
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Melanie M. Sinanian
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
| | - Victoria Neely
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Eesha Chakraborty
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Muruj A. Alshehri
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michael K. McGrath
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, MCG Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.K.M.); (P.V.S.)
| | - Hisashi Harada
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Patricia V. Schoenlein
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, MCG Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (M.K.M.); (P.V.S.)
| | - David A. Gewirtz
- Departments of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (A.M.E.); (M.M.S.); (M.A.A.)
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (E.C.); (H.H.)
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8
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Saeed H, Leibowitz BJ, Zhang L, Yu J. Targeting Myc-driven stress addiction in colorectal cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 69:100963. [PMID: 37119690 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
MYC is a proto-oncogene that encodes a powerful regulator of transcription and cellular programs essential for normal development, as well as the growth and survival of various types of cancer cells. MYC rearrangement and amplification is a common cause of hematologic malignancies. In epithelial cancers such as colorectal cancer, genetic alterations in MYC are rare. Activation of Wnt, ERK/MAPK, and PI3K/mTOR pathways dramatically increases Myc levels through enhanced transcription, translation, and protein stability. Elevated Myc promotes stress adaptation, metabolic reprogramming, and immune evasion to drive cancer development and therapeutic resistance through broad changes in transcriptional and translational landscapes. Despite intense interest and effort, Myc remains a difficult drug target. Deregulation of Myc and its targets has profound effects that vary depending on the type of cancer and the context. Here, we summarize recent advances in the mechanistic understanding of Myc-driven oncogenesis centered around mRNA translation and proteostress. Promising strategies and agents under development to target Myc are also discussed with a focus on colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Saeed
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brian J Leibowitz
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Chemical Biology and Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jian Yu
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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9
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Yang YC, Zhao CJ, Jin ZF, Zheng J, Ma LT. Targeted therapy based on ubiquitin-specific proteases, signalling pathways and E3 ligases in non-small-cell lung cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1120828. [PMID: 36969062 PMCID: PMC10036052 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1120828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide, with the highest mortality rate. Approximately 1.6 million deaths owing to lung cancer are reported annually; of which, 85% of deaths occur owing to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). At present, the conventional treatment methods for NSCLC include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and surgery. However, drug resistance and tumour invasion or metastasis often lead to treatment failure. The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumours. Upregulation or inhibition of proteins or enzymes involved in UPP can promote or inhibit the occurrence and development of tumours, respectively. As regulators of UPP, ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs) primarily inhibit the degradation of target proteins by proteasomes through deubiquitination and hence play a carcinogenic or anticancer role. This review focuses on the role of USPs in the occurrence and development of NSCLC and the potential of corresponding targeted drugs, PROTACs and small-molecule inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Can-Jun Zhao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhao-Feng Jin
- School of Psychology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
| | - Li-Tian Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
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Liu X, Wang A, Shi Y, Dai M, Liu M, Cai HB. PROTACs in Epigenetic Cancer Therapy: Current Status and Future Opportunities. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031217. [PMID: 36770884 PMCID: PMC9919707 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031217] [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: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic regulation of gene functions has been proven to be strongly associated with the development and progression of cancer. Reprogramming the cancer epigenome landscape is one of the most promising target therapies in both treatments and in reversing drug resistance. Proteolytic targeted chimeras (PROTACs) are an emerging therapeutic modality for selective degradation via the native ubiquitin-proteasome system. Rapid advances in PROTACs have facilitated the exploration of targeting epigenetic proteins, a lot of PROTAC degraders have already been designed in the field of epigenetic cancer therapy, and PROTACs targeting epigenetic proteins can better exploit target druggability and improve the mechanistic understanding of the epigenetic regulation of cancer. Thus, this review focuses on the progress made in the development of PROTAC degraders and PROTAC drugs targeting epigenetics in cancer and discusses challenges and future opportunities for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelian Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Anjin Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yuying Shi
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (H.-B.C.)
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hong-Bing Cai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan 430071, China
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (H.-B.C.)
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11
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Saraswat AL, Vartak R, Hegazy R, Patel A, Patel K. Drug delivery challenges and formulation aspects of proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs). Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103387. [PMID: 36184017 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been extensively explored for targeted proteasomal degradation of disease-related proteins with enormous potential in the treatment of intractable diseases. However, PROTACs are poorly soluble and permeable bulky molecules facing several bioavailability challenges irrespective of the route of administration. Our review lays out crucial challenges in the delivery of target protein degraders and nanoformulation approaches to overcome physicochemical and biological hurdles that can aid in transporting these target-protein degraders to the disease site. We have elaborated on the current formulation approaches and further highlighted the prospective delivery strategies that could be probed for disease-specific targeted delivery of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya L Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Rehab Hegazy
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Pharmacology Department, Medical Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Akanksha Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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12
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Shi X, Wang Y, Zhang L, Zhao W, Dai X, Yang YG, Zhang X. Targeting bromodomain and extra-terminal proteins to inhibit neuroblastoma tumorigenesis through regulating MYCN. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1021820. [PMID: 36187481 PMCID: PMC9523081 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1021820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) family proteins play important roles in regulating the expression of multiple proto-oncogenes by recognizing acetylation of histones and non-histone proteins including transcription factors, which subsequently promote tumor cell proliferation, survival, metastasis and immune escape. Therefore, BET family proteins are considered attractive therapeutic targets in various cancers. Currently, blocking of the BET proteins is a widely used therapeutic strategy for MYCN amplified high-risk neuroblastoma. Here, we summarized and reviewed the recent research progresses for the critical function of BET proteins, as an epigenetic reader, on tumorigenesis and the therapeutic potential of the BET/BRD4 inhibitors on MYCN amplified neuroblastoma. We also discussed the combined therapeutic strategies for BET inhibitor-resistant neuroblastoma.
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13
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Xi JY, Zhang RY, Chen K, Yao L, Li MQ, Jiang R, Li XY, Fan L. Advances and perspectives of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in drug discovery. Bioorg Chem 2022; 125:105848. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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BRD4 inhibitor GNE987 exerts anti-cancer effects by targeting super-enhancers in neuroblastoma. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:33. [PMID: 35303940 PMCID: PMC8932231 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00769-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroblastoma (NB) is a common extracranial malignancy with high mortality in children. Recently, super-enhancers (SEs) have been reported to play a critical role in the tumorigenesis and development of NB via regulating a wide range of oncogenes Thus, the synthesis and identification of chemical inhibitors specifically targeting SEs are of great urgency for the clinical therapy of NB. This study aimed to characterize the activity of the SEs inhibitor GNE987, which targets BRD4, in NB. Results In this study, we found that nanomolar concentrations of GNE987 markedly diminished NB cell proliferation and survival via degrading BRD4. Meanwhile, GNE987 significantly induced NB cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Consistent with in vitro results, GNE987 administration (0.25 mg/kg) markedly decreased the tumor size in the xenograft model, with less toxicity, and induced similar BRD4 protein degradation to that observed in vitro. Mechanically, GNE987 led to significant downregulation of hallmark genes associated with MYC and the global disruption of the SEs landscape in NB cells. Moreover, a novel candidate oncogenic transcript, FAM163A, was identified through analysis of the RNA-seq and ChIP-seq data. FAM163A is abnormally transcribed by SEs, playing an important role in NB occurrence and development. Conclusion GNE987 destroyed the abnormal transcriptional regulation of oncogenes in NB by downregulating BRD4, which could be a potential therapeutic candidate for NB. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00769-8.
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15
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Yao Q, Zhang X, Chen D. Emerging Roles and Mechanisms of lncRNA FOXD3-AS1 in Human Diseases. Front Oncol 2022; 12:848296. [PMID: 35280790 PMCID: PMC8914342 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.848296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as powerful regulators of human diseases. The lncRNA FOXD3-AS1 is a novel lncRNA that was recently shown to exert imperative roles in the initialization and progression of several diseases. Emerging studies have shown aberrant expression of FOXD3-AS1 and close correlation with pathophysiological traits of numerous diseases, particularly cancers. More importantly, FOXD3-AS1 was also found to ubiquitously impact a range of biological functions. This study aims to summarize the expression, associated clinicopathological features, major functions and molecular mechanisms of FOXD3-AS1 in human diseases and to explore its possible clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinfan Yao
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Prevention and Control Technology, Hangzhou, China
- National Key Clinical Department of Kidney Diseases, Institute of Nephrology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Kidney and Urinary System Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiuyuan Zhang
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Prevention and Control Technology, Hangzhou, China
- National Key Clinical Department of Kidney Diseases, Institute of Nephrology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Kidney and Urinary System Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dajin Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Prevention and Control Technology, Hangzhou, China
- National Key Clinical Department of Kidney Diseases, Institute of Nephrology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Kidney and Urinary System Disease, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dajin Chen,
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16
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Llombart V, Mansour MR. Therapeutic targeting of "undruggable" MYC. EBioMedicine 2022; 75:103756. [PMID: 34942444 PMCID: PMC8713111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
c-MYC controls global gene expression and regulates cell proliferation, cell differentiation, cell cycle, metabolism and apoptosis. According to some estimates, MYC is dysregulated in ≈70% of human cancers and strong evidence implicates aberrantly expressed MYC in both tumor initiation and maintenance. In vivo studies show that MYC inhibition elicits a prominent anti-proliferative effect and sustained tumor regression while any alteration on healthy tissue remains reversible. This opens an exploitable window for treatment that makes MYC one of the most appealing therapeutic targets for cancer drug development. This review describes the main functional and structural features of the protein structure of MYC and provides a general overview of the most relevant or recently identified interactors that modulate MYC oncogenic activity. This review also summarizes the different approaches aiming to abrogate MYC oncogenic function, with a particular focus on the prototype inhibitors designed for the direct and indirect targeting of MYC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Llombart
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Department of Haematology, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Marc R Mansour
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Department of Haematology, London WC1E 6DD, UK; UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Developmental Biology and Cancer, London, UK.
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17
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Targeted protein degraders from an oncologist point of view: The Holy Grail of cancer therapy? Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 169:103532. [PMID: 34800655 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In the era of precision medicine, monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors are the mainstays of the biological therapy in patients with solid tumors. However, resistance to treatment and the "undruggability" of certain key oncogenic proteins emerged as major limitations and jeopardize the clinical benefit of modern therapeutic approaches. Targeted protein degraders are novel molecules entering the early phase of clinical development that exploit the intracellular ubiquitine-proteasome system to promote a specific degradation of target proteins. Since the peculiar mechanism of action, targeted protein degraders have the potential to limit and overcome resistance to treatment and to allow a full actionability of certain cancer drivers that are actually elusive targets. Here, we discuss the state-of-the-art and the open issues in the development of these emerging biological agents from a clinical perspective and with a focus on solid tumors.
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18
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Liao X, Qian X, Zhang Z, Tao Y, Li Z, Zhang Q, Liang H, Li X, Xie Y, Zhuo R, Chen Y, Jiang Y, Cao H, Niu J, Xue C, Ni J, Pan J, Cui D. ARV-825 Demonstrates Antitumor Activity in Gastric Cancer via MYC-Targets and G2M-Checkpoint Signaling Pathways. Front Oncol 2021; 11:753119. [PMID: 34733788 PMCID: PMC8559897 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.753119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Suppression of bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) proteins has a bright prospect to treat MYC-driven tumors. Bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4) is one of the BET proteins. ARV-825, consisting of a BRD4 inhibitor conjugated with a cereblon ligand using proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology, was proven to decrease the tumor growth effectively and continuously. Nevertheless, the efficacy and mechanisms of ARV-825 in gastric cancer are still poorly understood. Methods Cell counting kit 8 assay, lentivirus infection, Western blotting analysis, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining, RNA sequencing, a xenograft model, and immunohistochemistry were used to assess the efficacy of ARV-825 in cell level and animal model. Results The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of BRD4 in gastric cancer raised significantly than those in normal tissues, which suggested poor outcome of patients with gastric cancer. ARV-825 displayed higher anticancer efficiency in gastric cancer cells than OTX015 and JQ1. ARV-825 could inhibit cell growth, inducing cell cycle block and apoptosis in vitro. ARV-825 induced degradation of BRD4, BRD2, BRD3, c-MYC, and polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) proteins in four gastric cancer cell lines. In addition, cleavage of caspase 3 and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) was elevated. Knockdown or overexpression CRBN could increase or decrease, respectively, the ARV-825 IC50 of gastric cancer cells. ARV-825 reduced MYC and PLK1 expression in gastric cancer cells. ARV-825 treatment significantly reduced tumor growth without toxic side effects and downregulated the expression of BRD4 in vivo. Conclusions High mRNA expression of BRD4 in gastric cancer indicated poor prognosis. ARV-825, a BRD4 inhibitor, could effectively suppress the growth and elevate the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells via transcription downregulation of c-MYC and PLK1. These results implied that ARV-825 could be a good therapeutic strategy to treat gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmei Liao
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqing Qian
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zimu Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanfang Tao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhiheng Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Liang
- Institute of Nanomedicine, National Engineering Research Centre for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Xie
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ran Zhuo
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - You Jiang
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haibo Cao
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Niu
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cuili Xue
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Ni
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Daxiang Cui
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Shanghai Engineering Research Centre for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment Instrument, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Nanomedicine, National Engineering Research Centre for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, China
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19
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Yang Q, Zhao J, Chen D, Wang Y. E3 ubiquitin ligases: styles, structures and functions. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2021; 2:23. [PMID: 35006464 PMCID: PMC8607428 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-021-00043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
E3 ubiquitin ligases are a large family of enzymes that join in a three-enzyme ubiquitination cascade together with ubiquitin activating enzyme E1 and ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2. E3 ubiquitin ligases play an essential role in catalyzing the ubiquitination process and transferring ubiquitin protein to attach the lysine site of targeted substrates. Importantly, ubiquitination modification is involved in almost all life activities of eukaryotes. Thus, E3 ligases might be involved in regulating various biological processes and cellular responses to stress signal associated with cancer development. Thanks to their multi-functions, E3 ligases can be a promising target of cancer therapy. A deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of E3 ligases in tumorigenesis will help to find new prognostic markers and accelerate the growth of anticancer therapeutic approaches. In general, we mainly introduce the classifications of E3 ligases and their important roles in cancer progression and therapeutic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Yang
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Jinyao Zhao
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
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20
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Whitfield JR, Soucek L. The long journey to bring a Myc inhibitor to the clinic. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:212429. [PMID: 34160558 PMCID: PMC8240852 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202103090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The oncogene Myc is deregulated in the majority of human tumors and drives numerous hallmarks of cancer. Despite its indisputable role in cancer development and maintenance, Myc is still undrugged. Developing a clinical inhibitor for Myc has been particularly challenging owing to its intrinsically disordered nature and lack of a binding pocket, coupled with concerns regarding potentially deleterious side effects in normal proliferating tissues. However, major breakthroughs in the development of Myc inhibitors have arisen in the last couple of years. Notably, the direct Myc inhibitor that we developed has just entered clinical trials. Celebrating this milestone, with this Perspective, we pay homage to the different strategies developed so far against Myc and all of the researchers focused on developing treatments for a target long deemed undruggable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Soucek
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Edifici Cellex, Barcelona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Peptomyc S.L., Barcelona, Spain
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21
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Kannt A, Đikić I. Expanding the arsenal of E3 ubiquitin ligases for proximity-induced protein degradation. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:1014-1031. [PMID: 33945791 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Efficacy and selectivity of molecules inducing protein degradation depend on their affinity to the target protein but also on the type of E3 ubiquitin ligase that is recruited to trigger proteasomal degradation. While tremendous progress has been made on the former, the latter-the arsenal of E3 ligases that can be hijacked for targeted protein degradation-is still largely unexplored. Only about 2% of the more than 600 E3 ligases have been utilized to date. Exploiting additional E3 ligases that are, for example, selectively expressed in specific tissues or cells, or regulated under certain conditions, can considerably broaden the applicability of molecular degraders as a therapeutic modality. Here, we provide an overview of major classes of E3 ligases, review the enzymes that have been exploited for induced protein degradation and approaches used to identify or design E3 ligands, and highlight challenges and opportunities for targeting new E3 ligases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimo Kannt
- Fraunhofer Institute of Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases CIMD, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Ivan Đikić
- Fraunhofer Institute of Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry II, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 15, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Department of Theoretical Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Max-von-Laue Straße 3, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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22
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Brownsey DK, Rowley BC, Gorobets E, Gelfand BS, Derksen DJ. Rapid synthesis of pomalidomide-conjugates for the development of protein degrader libraries. Chem Sci 2021; 12:4519-4525. [PMID: 34163717 PMCID: PMC8179520 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc05442a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Current methods for the preparation of heterobifunctional pomalidomide-conjugates rely on methods that are often low yielding and produce intractable byproducts. Herein we describe our strategy for the reliable and succinct preparation of pomalidomide-linkers which is essential to the formation of these conjugates. We present the preparation of 18 pomalidomide-linkers in high yield compared to current literature methods. Our findings show that secondary amines consistently afford greater yields than their primary counterparts, a trend that we were able to exploit in the synthesis of several new pomalidomide homo-dimers in enhanced yields compared to similar literature syntheses. This trend was further utilised to develop the first one-pot synthesis of JQ1-pomalidomide conjugates in yields up to 62%, providing a method that is suited to rapid preparation of conjugate libraries as is frequently required for the development of new protein degraders. Current methods for the preparation of heterobifunctional pomalidomide-conjugates rely on methods that are often low yielding and produce intractable byproducts. Herein we describe our strategy for the succinct preparation of pomalidomide-linkers.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan K Brownsey
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Ben C Rowley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Evgueni Gorobets
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Benjamin S Gelfand
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Darren J Derksen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
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