1
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Wang Y, Lei C, Wang Q, Zhang X, Zhi L, Liu X. Design and synthesis of 7-azaindole derivatives as potent CDK8 inhibitors for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. RSC Med Chem 2024:d4md00465e. [PMID: 39157854 PMCID: PMC11325196 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00465e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
It is of great significance to design and synthesize novel structural inhibitors with good antitumor activity. In this study, based on rational design, a total of 42 7-azaindole derivatives as novel CDK8 inhibitors were designed and synthesized. All compounds were screened with antitumor activity and compound 6 (1-(3-((1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-5-yl)oxy)phenyl)-3-(m-tolyl)urea) exhibited the best activity, especially in acute myeloid leukemia (GI50 MV4-11 = 1.97 ± 1.24 μM). This compound also exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against CDK8 (IC50 = 51.3 ± 4.6 nM). Further mechanism studies shown that it could inhibit STAT5 phosphorylation and induce cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, leading to apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia cells. In addition, acute toxicity at a dose of 1000 mg kg-1 indicated the low toxicity of this compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University Hefei P. R. China
| | - Cencen Lei
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University Hefei P. R. China
| | - Quan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University Hefei P. R. China
| | - Xingxing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University Hefei P. R. China
| | - Liping Zhi
- School of Health Management, Anhui Medical University Hefei 230032 PR China
| | - Xinhua Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University Hefei P. R. China
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2
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Voutsadakis IA. Mediator kinase module proteins, genetic alterations and expression of super-enhancer regulated genes in colorectal cancer. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:535-556. [PMID: 38602606 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00589-2] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic alterations are well characterized as contributors to the pathogenesis of cancers. Epigenetic abnormalities can lead to perturbations of the expression of genes in cancer cells without structural defects. Deregulation of proteins of the transcription machinery may result in perturbations of target genes. Mediator, a multiprotein component of the transcription machinery facilitates the function of RNA polymerase II, which transcribes most human genes. A part of the mediator with kinase activity, called the Mediator kinase module shows genetic alterations in a sub-set of colorectal cancers. METHODS Data from publicly available genomic series of colorectal cancer patients were examined to determine alterations of Mediator kinase module component genes, including MED12, MED12L, MED13, MED13L, CDK8, CDK19, and CCNC. The prevalence of alterations in genomically defined colorectal cancer sub-sets was also interrogated. The effect of Mediator kinase module member gene expression on colorectal cancer relapse-free survival was investigated. RESULTS Mutations in genes of the Mediator kinase module were present in a small percentage of colorectal cancers, ranging between 2 to 10% for MED12 and MED13 and alternative units MED12L and MED13L and below 2% for kinases CDK8 and CDK19 and cyclin C. Amplifications of the CDK8 gene were observed in 3% to 5% of colorectal cancers. The highest prevalence of mutations was observed in MSI cancers and the equivalent CMS1 group, with other genomic groups showing much lower frequency. An association of higher expression of MED12 with inferior relapse-free survival was observed. In contrast, higher expression of cyclin C was associated with improved survival. Colorectal cancer cell lines with CDK8 amplifications displayed sensitivity to several small molecule inhibitors of the KRAS/PI3K pathway but not to BET inhibitors. CONCLUSION The Mediator kinase module is deregulated in a sub-set of colorectal cancers with differences observed in genomically defined groups. These variations may result in differences in sensitivity to targeted therapies and may have to be taken into consideration as such therapies are developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Algoma District Cancer Program, Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste Marie, ON, P6B 0A8, Canada.
- Division of Clinical Sciences, Section of Internal Medicine, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, 750 Great Northern Road, Sudbury, ON, Canada.
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3
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Xu J, Qi H, Wang Z, Wang L, Steurer B, Cai X, Liu J, Aliper A, Zhang M, Ren F, Zhavoronkov A, Ding X. Discovery of a Novel and Potent Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8/19 (CDK8/19) Inhibitor for the Treatment of Cancer. J Med Chem 2024; 67:8161-8171. [PMID: 38690856 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The mediator kinases CDK8 and CDK19 control the dynamic transcription of selected genes in response to various signals and have been shown to be hijacked to sustain hyperproliferation by various solid and liquid tumors. CDK8/19 is emerging as a promising anticancer therapeutic target. Here, we report the discovery of compound 12, a novel small molecule CDK8/19 inhibitor. This molecule demonstrated not only decent enzymatic and cellular activities but also remarkable selectivity in CDK and kinome panels. Besides, compound 12 also displayed favorable ADME profiles including low CYP1A2 inhibition, acceptable clearance, and high oral bioavailability in multiple preclinical species. Robust in vivo PD and efficacy studies in mice models further demonstrated its potential use as mono- and combination therapy for the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Xu
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hongyun Qi
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Barbara Steurer
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xin Cai
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jinxin Liu
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Alex Aliper
- Insilico Medicine AI Limited, Masdar City, Abu Dhabi 145748, UAE
| | - Man Zhang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Feng Ren
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Alex Zhavoronkov
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
- Insilico Medicine AI Limited, Masdar City, Abu Dhabi 145748, UAE
| | - Xiao Ding
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd, Suite 902, Tower C, Changtai Plaza, 2889 Jinke Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 201203, China
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4
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Li J, Hilimire TA, Liu Y, Wang L, Liang J, Gyorffy B, Sikirzhytski V, Ji H, Zhang L, Cheng C, Ding X, Kerr KR, Dowling CE, Chumanevich AA, Mack ZT, Schools GP, Lim CU, Ellis L, Zi X, Porter DC, Broude EV, McInnes C, Wilding G, Lilly MB, Roninson IB, Chen M. Mediator kinase inhibition reverses castration resistance of advanced prostate cancer. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e176709. [PMID: 38546787 DOI: 10.1172/jci176709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Mediator kinases CDK19 and CDK8, pleiotropic regulators of transcriptional reprogramming, are differentially regulated by androgen signaling, but both kinases are upregulated in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of CDK8 and CDK19 reverses the castration-resistant phenotype and restores the sensitivity of CRPC xenografts to androgen deprivation in vivo. Prolonged CDK8/19 inhibitor treatment combined with castration not only suppressed the growth of CRPC xenografts but also induced tumor regression and cures. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that Mediator kinase inhibition amplified and modulated the effects of castration on gene expression, disrupting CRPC adaptation to androgen deprivation. Mediator kinase inactivation in tumor cells also affected stromal gene expression, indicating that Mediator kinase activity in CRPC molded the tumor microenvironment. The combination of castration and Mediator kinase inhibition downregulated the MYC pathway, and Mediator kinase inhibition suppressed a MYC-driven CRPC tumor model even without castration. CDK8/19 inhibitors showed efficacy in patient-derived xenograft models of CRPC, and a gene signature of Mediator kinase activity correlated with tumor progression and overall survival in clinical samples of metastatic CRPC. These results indicate that Mediator kinases mediated androgen-independent in vivo growth of CRPC, supporting the development of CDK8/19 inhibitors for the treatment of this presently incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas A Hilimire
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Senex Biotechnology Inc., Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Yueying Liu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jiaxin Liang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Balazs Gyorffy
- Department of Bioinformatics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Vitali Sikirzhytski
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Hao Ji
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chen Cheng
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Xiaokai Ding
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kendall R Kerr
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Charles E Dowling
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alexander A Chumanevich
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Zachary T Mack
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Gary P Schools
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chang-Uk Lim
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Leigh Ellis
- Center for Prostate Disease Research, Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences; Walter Reed National Military Medical Center; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc.; Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiaolin Zi
- Departments of Urology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | - Eugenia V Broude
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Campbell McInnes
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Michael B Lilly
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Igor B Roninson
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Mengqian Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Senex Biotechnology Inc., Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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5
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Elanany MM, Mostafa D, Hamdy NM. Remodeled tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) parade via natural killer cells reprogramming in breast cancer. Life Sci 2023; 330:121997. [PMID: 37536617 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the main cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally. Despite substantial advances in the identification and management of primary tumors, traditional therapies including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation cannot completely eliminate the danger of relapse and metastatic illness. Metastasis is controlled by microenvironmental and systemic mechanisms, including immunosurveillance. This led to the evolvement of immunotherapies that has gained much attention in the recent years for cancer treatment directed to the innate immune system. The long forgotten innate immune cells known as natural killer (NK) cells have emerged as novel targets for more effective therapeutics for BC. Normally, NK cells has the capacity to identify and eradicate tumor cells either directly or by releasing cytotoxic granules, chemokines and proinflammatory cytokines. Yet, NK cells are exposed to inhibitory signals by cancer cells, which causes them to become dysfunctional in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) in BC, supporting tumor escape and spread. Potential mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in BC metastasis have been recently identified. Understanding these immunologic pathways driving BC metastasis will lead to improvements in the current immunotherapeutic strategies. In the current review, we highlight how BC evades immunosurveillance by rendering NK cells dysfunctional and we shed the light on novel NK cell- directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona M Elanany
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Abassia, 11566 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina Mostafa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Abassia, 11566 Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Nadia M Hamdy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Abassia, 11566 Cairo, Egypt.
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6
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Chen M, Li J, Zhang L, Wang L, Cheng C, Ji H, Altilia S, Ding X, Cai G, Altomare D, Shtutman M, Byrum SD, Mackintosh SG, Feoktistov A, Soshnikova N, Mogila VA, Tatarskiy V, Erokhin M, Chetverina D, Prawira A, Ni Y, Urban S, McInnes C, Broude EV, Roninson IB. CDK8 and CDK19: positive regulators of signal-induced transcription and negative regulators of Mediator complex proteins. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:7288-7313. [PMID: 37378433 PMCID: PMC10415139 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We have conducted a detailed transcriptomic, proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of CDK8 and its paralog CDK19, alternative enzymatic components of the kinase module associated with transcriptional Mediator complex and implicated in development and diseases. This analysis was performed using genetic modifications of CDK8 and CDK19, selective CDK8/19 small molecule kinase inhibitors and a potent CDK8/19 PROTAC degrader. CDK8/19 inhibition in cells exposed to serum or to agonists of NFκB or protein kinase C (PKC) reduced the induction of signal-responsive genes, indicating a pleiotropic role of Mediator kinases in signal-induced transcriptional reprogramming. CDK8/19 inhibition under basal conditions initially downregulated a small group of genes, most of which were inducible by serum or PKC stimulation. Prolonged CDK8/19 inhibition or mutagenesis upregulated a larger gene set, along with a post-transcriptional increase in the proteins comprising the core Mediator complex and its kinase module. Regulation of both RNA and protein expression required CDK8/19 kinase activities but both enzymes protected their binding partner cyclin C from proteolytic degradation in a kinase-independent manner. Analysis of isogenic cell populations expressing CDK8, CDK19 or their kinase-inactive mutants revealed that CDK8 and CDK19 have the same qualitative effects on protein phosphorylation and gene expression at the RNA and protein levels, whereas differential effects of CDK8 versus CDK19 knockouts were attributable to quantitative differences in their expression and activity rather than different functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqian Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
- Senex Biotechnology, Inc. Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Chen Cheng
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Hao Ji
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Serena Altilia
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Xiaokai Ding
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Guoshuai Cai
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Diego Altomare
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Michael Shtutman
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Stephanie D Byrum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Samuel G Mackintosh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Alexey Feoktistov
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nataliya Soshnikova
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vladislav A Mogila
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Victor Tatarskiy
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Maksim Erokhin
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Darya Chetverina
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Angga Prawira
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yi Ni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Urban
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Campbell McInnes
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Eugenia V Broude
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Igor B Roninson
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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7
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Mao M, Zheng X, Sheng Y, Chai J, Ding H. Evodiamine inhibits malignant progression of ovarian cancer cells by regulating lncRNA-NEAT1/miR-152-3p/CDK19 axis. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 102:101-114. [PMID: 36892495 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Evodiamine (EVO) has been demonstrated to promote apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells, and upregulate miR-152-3p level in colorectal cancer. Here, we explore part of the network mechanism of EVO and miR-152-3p in ovarian cancer. The bioinformatics website, dual luciferase reporter assay, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were applied to analyze the network among EVO, lncRNA, miR-152-3p, and mRNA. The effect and mechanism of EVO on ovarian cancer cells were determined using cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, TUNEL, Western blot, and rescue experiments. As a result, EVO dose-dependently attenuated cell viability, induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis, promoted miR-152-3p level (4.5- or 2-fold changes), and inhibited expressions of NEAT1 (0.225- or 0.367-fold changes), CDK8 (0.625- or 0.571-fold changes), and CDK19 (0.25- or 0.147-fold changes) in OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cells. In addition, EVO decreased Bcl-2 expression, but increased the expressions of Bax and c-caspase-3. NEAT1 targeted miR-152-3p which bound to CDK19. The impacts of EVO on cell viability, cycle, apoptosis, and apoptosis-related proteins were partially reversed by miR-152-3p inhibitor, NEAT1 overexpression, or CDK19 overexpression. Furthermore, miR-152-3p mimic offset the effects of NEAT1 or CDK19 overexpression. The role of NEAT1 overexpression in the biological phenotype of ovarian cancer cells was counteracted by shCDK19. In conclusion, EVO attenuates ovarian cancer cell progression via the NEAT1-miR-152-3p-CDK19 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiya Mao
- Department of Gynecology, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaojiao Zheng
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuehua Sheng
- Department of Civic Education, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jinghan Chai
- Center of Medical Examination, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huiqing Ding
- Department of Gynecologic, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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8
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Kokinos EK, Tsymbal SA, Galochkina AV, Bezlepkina SA, Nikolaeva JV, Vershinina SO, Shtro AA, Tatarskiy VV, Shtil AA, Broude EV, Roninson IB, Dukhinova M. Inhibition of Cyclin-Dependent Kinases 8/19 Restricts Bacterial and Virus-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Monocytes. Viruses 2023; 15:1292. [PMID: 37376593 PMCID: PMC10305654 DOI: 10.3390/v15061292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperactivation of the immune system remains a dramatic, life-threatening complication of viral and bacterial infections, particularly during pneumonia. Therapeutic approaches to counteract local and systemic outbreaks of cytokine storm and to prevent tissue damage remain limited. Cyclin-dependent kinases 8 and 19 (CDK8/19) potentiate transcriptional responses to the altered microenvironment, but CDK8/19 potential in immunoregulation is not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated how a selective CDK8/19 inhibitor, Senexin B, impacts the immunogenic profiles of monocytic cells stimulated using influenza virus H1N1 or bacterial lipopolysaccharides. Senexin B was able to prevent the induction of gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines in THP1 and U937 cell lines and in human peripheral blood-derived mononuclear cells. Moreover, Senexin B substantially reduced functional manifestations of inflammation, including clustering and chemokine-dependent migration of THP1 monocytes and human pulmonary fibroblasts (HPF).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena K Kokinos
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, 9 Lomonosova Street, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sergey A Tsymbal
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, 9 Lomonosova Street, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anastasia V Galochkina
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, 15/17 Prof. Popov Street, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Svetlana A Bezlepkina
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, 9 Lomonosova Street, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Julia V Nikolaeva
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, 15/17 Prof. Popov Street, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sofia O Vershinina
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, 9 Lomonosova Street, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anna A Shtro
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, 15/17 Prof. Popov Street, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Victor V Tatarskiy
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilova Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A Shtil
- Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoe Highway 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia
| | - Eugenia V Broude
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina, Sumter Street 715, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Igor B Roninson
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina, Sumter Street 715, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Marina Dukhinova
- SCAMT Institute, ITMO University, 9 Lomonosova Street, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
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9
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Ilchuk LA, Kubekina MV, Okulova YD, Silaeva YY, Tatarskiy VV, Filatov MA, Bruter AV. Genetically Engineered Mice Unveil In Vivo Roles of the Mediator Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119330. [PMID: 37298278 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The Mediator complex is a multi-subunit protein complex which plays a significant role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene transcription. It provides a platform for the interaction of transcriptional factors and RNA polymerase II, thus coupling external and internal stimuli with transcriptional programs. Molecular mechanisms underlying Mediator functioning are intensively studied, although most often using simple models such as tumor cell lines and yeast. Transgenic mouse models are required to study the role of Mediator components in physiological processes, disease, and development. As constitutive knockouts of most of the Mediator protein coding genes are embryonically lethal, conditional knockouts and corresponding activator strains are needed for these studies. Recently, they have become more easily available with the development of modern genetic engineering techniques. Here, we review existing mouse models for studying the Mediator, and data obtained in corresponding experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid A Ilchuk
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Marina V Kubekina
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia D Okulova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia Yu Silaeva
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor V Tatarskiy
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maxim A Filatov
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra V Bruter
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
- Federal State Budgetary Institution "N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology", Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Kashirskoe Sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia
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Bukowski K, Marciniak B, Kciuk M, Mujwar S, Mojzych M, Kontek R. Pyrazolo[4,3- e]tetrazolo[1,5- b][1,2,4]triazine Sulfonamides as Novel Potential Anticancer Agents: Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Cell Cycle Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108504. [PMID: 37239848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study continues the evaluation of the anticancer potential of three de novo synthesized pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine sulfonamides-MM129, MM130, and MM131-against human cancer cells of HeLa, HCT 116, PC-3, and BxPC-3 lines. The pro-apoptotic activity of the investigated sulfonamides was shown by observations of changes in the mitochondrial transmembrane potential of the tested cells, externalization of phosphatidylserine on the cellular membrane surface, and cell morphology in microscopic imaging. The computational studies have shown that MM129 exhibited the lowest binding energy values when docked against CDK enzymes. In addition, the highest stability was shown for complexes formed between MM129 and CDK5/8 enzymes. All examined compounds induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in the BxPC-3 and PC-3 cells and simultaneously caused the accumulation of cells in the S phase in the HCT 116 cells. In addition, the increase in the subG1 fraction was observed in PC-3 and HeLa cells. The application of a fluorescent H2DCFDA probe revealed the high pro-oxidative properties of the tested triazine derivatives, especially MM131. In conclusion, the obtained results suggest that MM129, MM130, and MM131 exhibited strong pro-apoptotic properties towards investigated cells, mainly against the HeLa and HCT 116 cell lines, and high pro-oxidative potential as well. Moreover, it is suggested that the anticancer activity of the tested compounds may be associated with their ability to inhibit CDK enzymes activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol Bukowski
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Beata Marciniak
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Mateusz Kciuk
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Somdutt Mujwar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, Punjab, India
| | - Mariusz Mojzych
- Department of Chemistry, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland
| | - Renata Kontek
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
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11
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Ho TY, Sung TY, Pan SL, Huang WJ, Hsu KC, Hsu JY, Lin TE, Hsu CM, Yang CR. The study of a novel CDK8 inhibitor E966-0530-45418 that inhibits prostate cancer metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114667. [PMID: 37037092 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114667] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a prevalent malignancy among men globally, and androgen deprivation therapy is the conventional first-line treatment for metastatic prostate cancer. While androgen deprivation therapy is efficacious in castration-sensitive prostate cancer, it remains less effective in castration-resistant cases. Transcriptional dysregulation is a well-established hallmark of cancer, and targeting proteins involved in transcriptional regulation, such as cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8), has become an attractive therapeutic strategy. CDK8, a nuclear serine-threonine kinase, is a key component of the mediator complex and plays a critical role in transcriptional regulation. Recent studies have highlighted the promising role of CDK8 as a target in the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. Our study assessed the efficacy of a novel CDK8 inhibitor, E966-0530-45418, which exhibited potent CDK8 inhibition (IC50 of 129 nM) and high CDK8 selectivity. Treatment with E966-0530-45418 significantly inhibited prostate cancer cell migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at both the RNA and protein levels. Further mechanistic analysis indicated that E966-0530-45418 suppresses prostate cancer metastasis by decreasing CDK8 activity and inhibiting TGF-β1-mediated Smad3/RNA polymerase II linker phosphorylation and Akt/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling. The results in animal model also showed that E966-0530-45418 exhibited anti-metastatic properties in vivo. Our study demonstrated that E966-0530-45418 has great therapeutic potential in the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Yuan Ho
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Yi Sung
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shiow-Lin Pan
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; TMU Research Center for Drug Discovery, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jan Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Cheng Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Yi Hsu
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tony Eight Lin
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ming Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ron Yang
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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12
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Discovery of a novel oral type Ⅰ CDK8 inhibitor against acute myeloid leukemia. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 251:115214. [PMID: 36889252 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CDK8 plays a key role in acute myeloid leukemia, colorectal cancer and other cancers. Here, a total of 54 compounds were designed and synthesized. Among them, the most potent one compound 43 (3-(1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-5-yl)benzamide), a novel CDK8 Ⅰ inhibitor, showed strong inhibitory activity against CDK8 (IC50 = 51.9 nM), good kinase selectivity, good anti AML cell proliferation activity (molm-13 GC50 = 1.57 ± 0.59 μM) and low toxicity in vivo (acute toxicity: 2000 mg/kg). Further mechanistic studies revealed that this compound could target CDK8 and then phosphorylate STAT-1 and STAT-5 thereby inhibiting of AML cell proliferation. In addition, compound 43 showed relatively good bioavailability (F = 28.00%) and could inhibit the growth of AML tumors in a dose-dependent manner in vivo. This study facilitates the further development of more potent CDK8 inhibitors for the treatment of the AML.
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13
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Richter WF, Nayak S, Iwasa J, Taatjes DJ. The Mediator complex as a master regulator of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:732-749. [PMID: 35725906 PMCID: PMC9207880 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The Mediator complex, which in humans is 1.4 MDa in size and includes 26 subunits, controls many aspects of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) function. Apart from its size, a defining feature of Mediator is its intrinsic disorder and conformational flexibility, which contributes to its ability to undergo phase separation and to interact with a myriad of regulatory factors. In this Review, we discuss Mediator structure and function, with emphasis on recent cryogenic electron microscopy data of the 4.0-MDa transcription preinitiation complex. We further discuss how Mediator and sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors enable enhancer-dependent regulation of Pol II function at distal gene promoters, through the formation of molecular condensates (or transcription hubs) and chromatin loops. Mediator regulation of Pol II reinitiation is also discussed, in the context of transcription bursting. We propose a working model for Mediator function that combines experimental results and theoretical considerations related to enhancer-promoter interactions, which reconciles contradictory data regarding whether enhancer-promoter communication is direct or indirect. We conclude with a discussion of Mediator's potential as a therapeutic target and of future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Richter
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Shraddha Nayak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Janet Iwasa
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Dylan J Taatjes
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA.
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14
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Relationship of micro-RNA, mRNA and eIF Expression in Tamoxifen-Adapted MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells: Impact of miR-1972 on Gene Expression, Proliferation and Migration. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070916. [PMID: 35883472 PMCID: PMC9312698 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tamoxifen-adapted MCF-7-Tam cells represent an in-vitro model for acquired tamoxifen resistance, which is still a problem in clinics. We here investigated the correlation of microRNA-, mRNA- and eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs) expression in this model. Methods: MicroRNA- and gene expression were analyzed by nCounter and qRT-PCR technology; eIFs by Western blotting. Protein translation mode was determined using a reporter gene assay. Cells were transfected with a miR-1972-mimic. Results: miR-181b-5p,-3p and miR-455-5p were up-, miR-375, and miR-1972 down-regulated and are significant in survival analysis. About 5% of the predicted target genes were significantly altered. Pathway enrichment analysis suggested a contribution of the FoxO1 pathway. The ratio of polio-IRES driven to cap-dependent protein translation shifted towards cap-dependent initiation. Protein expression of eIF2A, -4G, -4H and -6 decreased, whereas eIF3H was higher in MCF-7-Tam. Significant correlations between tamoxifen-regulated miRNAs and eIFs were found in representative breast cancer cell lines. Transfection with a miR-1972-mimic reverses tamoxifen-induced expression for a subset of genes and increased proliferation in MCF-7, but reduced proliferation in MCF-7-Tam, especially in the presence of 4OH-tamoxifen. Migration was inhibited in MCF-7-Tam cells. Translation mode remained unaffected. Conclusions: miR-1972 contributes to the orchestration of gene-expression and physiological consequences of tamoxifen adaption.
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15
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The Mediator kinase module: an interface between cell signaling and transcription. Trends Biochem Sci 2022; 47:314-327. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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16
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Knab VM, Gotthardt D, Klein K, Grausenburger R, Heller G, Menzl I, Prinz D, Trifinopoulos J, List J, Fux D, Witalisz-Siepracka A, Sexl V. Triple-negative breast cancer cells rely on kinase-independent functions of CDK8 to evade NK-cell-mediated tumor surveillance. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:991. [PMID: 34689158 PMCID: PMC8542046 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04279-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignant disease that is responsible for approximately 15% of breast cancers. The standard of care relies on surgery and chemotherapy but the prognosis is poor and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Recent in silico studies have revealed an inverse correlation between recurrence-free survival and the level of cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) in breast cancer patients. CDK8 is known to have a role in natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, but its function in TNBC progression and immune cell recognition or escape has not been investigated. We have used a murine model of orthotopic breast cancer to study the tumor-intrinsic role of CDK8 in TNBC. Knockdown of CDK8 in TNBC cells impairs tumor regrowth upon surgical removal and prevents metastasis. In the absence of CDK8, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is impaired and immune-mediated tumor-cell clearance is facilitated. CDK8 drives EMT in TNBC cells in a kinase-independent manner. In vivo experiments have confirmed that CDK8 is a crucial regulator of NK-cell-mediated immune evasion in TNBC. The studies also show that CDK8 is involved in regulating the checkpoint inhibitor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). The CDK8-PD-L1 axis is found in mouse and human TNBC cells, underlining the importance of CDK8-driven immune cell evasion in these highly aggressive breast cancer cells. Our data link CDK8 to PD-L1 expression and provide a rationale for investigating the possibility of CDK8-directed therapy for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Maria Knab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dagmar Gotthardt
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klara Klein
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Grausenburger
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerwin Heller
- Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingeborg Menzl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jana Trifinopoulos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia List
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Fux
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Veronika Sexl
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
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Cdk8 Kinase Module: A Mediator of Life and Death Decisions in Times of Stress. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102152. [PMID: 34683473 PMCID: PMC8540245 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Cdk8 kinase module (CKM) of the multi-subunit mediator complex plays an essential role in cell fate decisions in response to different environmental cues. In the budding yeast S. cerevisiae, the CKM consists of four conserved subunits (cyclin C and its cognate cyclin-dependent kinase Cdk8, Med13, and Med12) and predominantly negatively regulates a subset of stress responsive genes (SRG’s). Derepression of these SRG’s is accomplished by disassociating the CKM from the mediator, thus allowing RNA polymerase II-directed transcription. In response to cell death stimuli, cyclin C translocates to the mitochondria where it induces mitochondrial hyper-fission and promotes regulated cell death (RCD). The nuclear release of cyclin C requires Med13 destruction by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). In contrast, to protect the cell from RCD following SRG induction induced by nutrient deprivation, cyclin C is rapidly destroyed by the UPS before it reaches the cytoplasm. This enables a survival response by two mechanisms: increased ATP production by retaining reticular mitochondrial morphology and relieving CKM-mediated repression on autophagy genes. Intriguingly, nitrogen starvation also stimulates Med13 destruction but through a different mechanism. Rather than destruction via the UPS, Med13 proteolysis occurs in the vacuole (yeast lysosome) via a newly identified Snx4-assisted autophagy pathway. Taken together, these findings reveal that the CKM regulates cell fate decisions by both transcriptional and non-transcriptional mechanisms, placing it at a convergence point between cell death and cell survival pathways.
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18
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Cai X, Deng J, Zhou J, Cai H, Chen Z. Cyclin-dependent kinase 19 upregulation correlates with an unfavorable prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Gastroenterol 2021; 21:377. [PMID: 34649520 PMCID: PMC8518165 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-021-01962-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Cyclin-dependent kinase 19 (CDK19) is a component of the mediator coactivator complex, which is required for transcriptional activation. In this study, we utilized public databases and wet-bench hepatic cell line experiments to elucidate the potential roles of CDK19 in hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Materials and methods We studied the relationships between CDK19 expression and several clinical features related to HCC via the Oncomine and UALCAN databases. The prognostic value of CDK19 was tested using the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database. We presented the mutations of CDK19 and addressed the relation of CDK19 expression with immune cell infiltration by means of the cBioPortal, Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) and Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER) databases. Hub genes were obtained and further analyzed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database. To test the in silico findings, we knocked down CDK19 with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) technology in two hepatic cell lines and conducted several functional characterization experiments. Results Marked CDK19 upregulation was found in HCC tissues versus normal liver tissues, and CDK19 mRNA expression had high diagnostic value in HCC patients. Subgroup analysis showed that CDK19 overexpression was associated with sex, tumor stage and TP53 mutation status. The prognostic value of CDK19 upregulation for overall survival (OS) was significant in patients with stage 2–3, stage 3–4, and grade 2 disease. One percent of the patients had CDK19 mutations, but no relationship between CDK19 mutation and prognosis was observed. CDK19 was positively correlated with the abundances of CD4 + T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. We identified 10 genes correlated with CDK19, 8 of which presented excellent prognostic value in HCC. These hub genes were directly involved in cell division and regulation of the G2/M cell cycle transition. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) and pathway predictions indicated that CDK19 is highly likely to be involved in several cellular functions, such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. These functions were strongly interfered from two independent hepatic cell lines after CDK19 knockdown. Conclusions CDK19 could be a prognostic marker in HCC, and its therapeutic potential in HCC needs further study. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12876-021-01962-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Cai
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jingwen Deng
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiaming Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Huiqiang Cai
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Aarhus, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Zhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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19
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Zhang C, Niu Y, Wang Z, Xu X, Li Y, Ma L, Wang J, Yu Y. Corosolic acid inhibits cancer progression by decreasing the level of CDK19-mediated O-GlcNAcylation in liver cancer cells. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:889. [PMID: 34588426 PMCID: PMC8481254 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04164-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes is an important risk factor for liver cancer, but its mechanism is unknown. Corosolic acid (CA) has been proven to have both hypoglycemic and antitumor effects, so revealing the function of CA can help us understand the relationship between diabetes and liver cancer. In previous studies, we confirmed that CA can effectively inhibit the expression of YAP, an important oncoprotein in HCC cells, and the proliferation of HCC cells. In addition, we also found that O-GlcNAcylation plays an indispensable role in HCC tumorigenesis. However, it is not clear whether CA can inhibit the effect of O-GlcNAcylation on HCC cells. In this study, the antitumor ability of CA was investigated by inhibiting the O-GlcNAcylation level and its corresponding mechanism. The results showed that HG (high glucose) could promote the proliferation of liver cancer cells, while CA could inhibit cell growth under HG conditions and tumor growth in a xenotransplantation model. CA can inhibit the activation of the HBP pathway and reduce the expression of YAP and OGT under HG conditions. Importantly, we found that CA can reduce YAP expression and O-GlcNAcylation by inhibiting the activity of CDK19. Overexpression of CDK19 partially reversed the CA-induced decrease in YAP and O-GlcNAcylation. This is the first evidence that CA can reduce the proliferative capacity of cells with high glucose levels and further inhibit tumor growth by inactivating the CDK19/YAP/O-GlcNAcylation pathway, suggesting that CA is a candidate drug for the development of treatments against diabetes-associated liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Zhang
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200071, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, 450046, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yongjie Niu
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200071, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Zhixian Wang
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200071, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xin Xu
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200071, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Lifang Ma
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yongchun Yu
- Institute for Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 200071, Shanghai, P.R. China.
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20
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Toman D, Jorda R, Ajani H, Kryštof V, Cankař P. Synthesis of 4-styrylpyrazoles and evaluation of their inhibitory effects on cyclin-dependent kinases. Med Chem 2021; 18:484-496. [PMID: 34365958 DOI: 10.2174/1573406417666210806095710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cycle-regulating and transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are attractive targets in cancer drug development. Several CDK inhibitors have already been obtained or are close to regulatory approval for clinical applications. OBJECTIVE Phenylazopyrazole CAN508 has been described as the first selective CDK9 inhibitor with an IC50 of 350 nM. Since the azo-moiety is not a suitable functionality for drugs due to pharmacological reasons, the preparation of carbo-analogues of CAN508 with similar biological activities is desirable. The present work is focused on the synthesis of carbo-analogues similar to CAN508 and their CDK inhibition activity. METHODS Herein, the synthesis of 21 novel carbo analogues of CAN508 and their intermediates is reported. Subsequently, target compounds 8a - 8u were evaluated for protein kinase inhibition (CDK2/cyclin E, CDK4/cyclin D, CDK9/cyclin T) and antiproliferative activities in cell lines (K562, MCF-7, MV4-11). Moreover, the binding mode of derivative 8s in the active site of CDK9 was revealed by molecular docking. RESULTS Compounds 8a - 8u were obtained from key intermediate 7, which was prepared by linear synthesis involving Vilsmeier-Haack, Knoevenagel, Hunsdiecker, and Suzuki-Miyaura reactions. Styrylpyrazoles 8t and 8u were the most potent CDK9 inhibitors with IC50 values of approximately 1 µM. Molecular modelling suggested binding in the active site of CDK9 and CDK2. The flow cytometric analysis of MV4-11 cells treated with the most active styrylpyrazoles showed a significant G1-arrest. CONCLUSION The prepared styrylpyrazoles showed inhibition activity towards CDKs and can provide a novel chemotype of kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Toman
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, 17. listopadu 1192/12, 771 46 Olomouc. Czech Republic
| | - Radek Jorda
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71 Olomouc. Czech Republic
| | - Haresh Ajani
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo nam. 2, 166 10 Prague 6. Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Kryštof
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71 Olomouc. Czech Republic
| | - Petr Cankař
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, 17. listopadu 1192/12, 771 46 Olomouc. Czech Republic
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Gene Transcription as a Therapeutic Target in Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147340. [PMID: 34298959 PMCID: PMC8304797 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood malignancies often arise from undifferentiated hematopoietic stem cells or partially differentiated stem-like cells. A tight balance of multipotency and differentiation, cell division, and quiescence underlying normal hematopoiesis requires a special program governed by the transcriptional machinery. Acquisition of drug resistance by tumor cells also involves reprogramming of their transcriptional landscape. Limiting tumor cell plasticity by disabling reprogramming of the gene transcription is a promising strategy for improvement of treatment outcomes. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of action of transcription-targeted drugs in hematological malignancies (largely in leukemia) with particular respect to the results of clinical trials.
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22
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Discovery of a potent, highly selective, and orally bioavailable inhibitor of CDK8 through a structure-based optimisation. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 218:113391. [PMID: 33823391 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CDK8 is deregulated in multiple types of human cancer and is viewed as a therapeutic target for the treatment of the disease. Accordingly, the search for small-molecule inhibitors of CDK8 is being intensified. Capitalising on our initial discovery of AU1-100, a potent CDK8 inhibitor yet with a limited degree of kinase selectivity, a structure-based optimisation was carried out, with a series of new multi-substituted pyridines rationally designed, chemically prepared and biologically evaluated. Such endeavour has culminated in the identification of 42, a more potent CDK8 inhibitor with superior kinomic selectivity and oral bioavailability. The mechanism underlying the anti-proliferative effect of 42 on MV4-11 cells was studied, revealing that the compound arrested the G1 cell cycle and triggered apoptosis. The low risk of hepato- and cardio-toxicity of 42 was estimated. These findings merit further investigation of 42 as a targeted cancer therapeutic.
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23
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Łukasik P, Załuski M, Gutowska I. Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDK) and Their Role in Diseases Development-Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062935. [PMID: 33805800 PMCID: PMC7998717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are involved in many crucial processes, such as cell cycle and transcription, as well as communication, metabolism, and apoptosis. The kinases are organized in a pathway to ensure that, during cell division, each cell accurately replicates its DNA, and ensure its segregation equally between the two daughter cells. Deregulation of any of the stages of the cell cycle or transcription leads to apoptosis but, if uncorrected, can result in a series of diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease), and stroke. This review presents the current state of knowledge about the characteristics of cyclin-dependent kinases as potential pharmacological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Łukasik
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstancow Wlkp. 72 Av., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Michał Załuski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstancow Wlkp. 72 Av., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Izabela Gutowska
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstancow Wlkp. 72 Av., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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24
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Yu M, Teo T, Yang Y, Li M, Long Y, Philip S, Noll B, Heinemann GK, Diab S, Eldi P, Mekonnen L, Anshabo AT, Rahaman MH, Milne R, Hayball JD, Wang S. Potent and orally bioavailable CDK8 inhibitors: Design, synthesis, structure-activity relationship analysis and biological evaluation. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 214:113248. [PMID: 33571827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CDK8 regulates transcription either by phosphorylation of transcription factors or, as part of a four-subunit kinase module, through a reversible association of the kinase module with the Mediator complex, a highly conserved transcriptional coactivator. Deregulation of CDK8 has been found in various types of human cancer, while the role of CDK8 in supressing anti-cancer response of natural killer cells is being understood. Currently, CDK8-targeting cancer drugs are highly sought-after. Herein we detail the discovery of a series of novel pyridine-derived CDK8 inhibitors. Medicinal chemistry optimisation gave rise to 38 (AU1-100), a potent CDK8 inhibitor with oral bioavailability. The compound inhibited the proliferation of MV4-11 acute myeloid leukaemia cells with the kinase activity of cellular CDK8 dampened. No systemic toxicology was observed in the mice treated with 38. These results warrant further pre-clinical studies of 38 as an anti-cancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfeng Yu
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Theodosia Teo
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Yuchao Yang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Manjun Li
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Yi Long
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Stephen Philip
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Benjamin Noll
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Gary K Heinemann
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Sarah Diab
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Preethi Eldi
- Experimental Therapeutics, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Laychiluh Mekonnen
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Abel T Anshabo
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Muhammed H Rahaman
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Robert Milne
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - John D Hayball
- Experimental Therapeutics, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia.
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25
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The Inhibition of CDK8/19 Mediator Kinases Prevents the Development of Resistance to EGFR-Targeting Drugs. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010144. [PMID: 33445730 PMCID: PMC7828184 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is the main obstacle to achieving cures with both conventional and targeted anticancer drugs. The emergence of acquired drug resistance is initially mediated by non-genetic transcriptional changes, which occur at a much higher frequency than mutations and may involve population-scale transcriptomic adaptation. CDK8/19 kinases, through association with transcriptional Mediator complex, regulate transcriptional reprogramming by co-operating with different signal-responsive transcription factors. Here we tested if CDK8/19 inhibition could prevent adaptation to drugs acting on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ERBB1/HER1). The development of resistance was analyzed following long-term exposure of BT474 and SKBR3 breast cancer cells to EGFR-targeting small molecules (gefitinib, erlotinib) and of SW48 colon cancer cells to an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab. In all cases, treatment of small cell populations (~105 cells) with a single dose of the drug initially led to growth inhibition that was followed by the resumption of proliferation and development of drug resistance in the adapted populations. However, this adaptation was always prevented by the addition of selective CDK8/19 inhibitors, even though such inhibitors alone had only moderate or no effect on cell growth. These results indicate that combining EGFR-targeting drugs with CDK8/19 inhibitors may delay or prevent the development of tumor resistance to therapy.
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26
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Liu H, Liu K, Dong Z. Targeting CDK12 for Cancer Therapy: Function, Mechanism, and Drug Discovery. Cancer Res 2020; 81:18-26. [PMID: 32958547 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) is a member of the CDK family of proteins (CDK) and is critical for cancer development. Years of study into CDK12 have generated much information regarding the intricacy of its function and mechanism as well as inhibitors against it for oncological research. However, there remains a lack of understanding regarding the role of CDK12 in carcinogenesis and cancer prevention. An exhaustive comprehension of CDK12 will highly stimulate the development of new strategies for treating and preventing cancer. Here, we review the literature of CDK12, with a focus on its function, its role in signaling, and how to use it as a target for discovery of novel drugs for cancer prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The Academy of Medical Science, College of Medical, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The Academy of Medical Science, College of Medical, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The Academy of Medical Science, College of Medical, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China. .,China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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27
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Bian J, Dannappel M, Wan C, Firestein R. Transcriptional Regulation of Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Colorectal Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092125. [PMID: 32961708 PMCID: PMC7564852 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway exerts integral roles in embryogenesis and adult homeostasis. Aberrant activation of the pathway is implicated in growth-associated diseases and cancers, especially as a key driver in the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Loss or inactivation of Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) results in constitutive activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which is considered as an initiating event in the development of CRC. Increased Wnt/β-catenin signaling is observed in virtually all CRC patients, underscoring the importance of this pathway for therapeutic intervention. Prior studies have deciphered the regulatory networks required for the cytoplasmic stabilisation or degradation of the Wnt pathway effector, β-catenin. However, the mechanism whereby nuclear β-catenin drives or inhibits expression of Wnt target genes is more diverse and less well characterised. Here, we describe a brief synopsis of the core canonical Wnt pathway components, set the spotlight on nuclear mediators and highlight the emerging role of chromatin regulators as modulators of β-catenin-dependent transcription activity and oncogenic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Bian
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Marius Dannappel
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Chunhua Wan
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence:
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28
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Chen B, Wen P, Hu G, Gao Y, Qi X, Zhu K, Chen S, Wu L, Xu A, Zhao G. Antagonizing CDK8 Sensitizes Colorectal Cancer to Radiation Through Potentiating the Transcription of e2f1 Target Gene apaf1. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:408. [PMID: 32596239 PMCID: PMC7304162 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an essential curative treatment modality for colorectal cancer. Apoptosis is the major mechanism of IR-induced cell death and aberrant apoptotic signaling results in radioresistance, which is a hallmark of most, perhaps all, types of human cancers. Potentiating the induction of apoptosis is an emerging strategy for cancer radiotherapy. Here, we determined that targeting CDK8 selectively radiosensitized colorectal cancer through the mitochondria-dependent intrinsic apoptotic signaling, which was mediated through the induction of the transcription of apaf1 that was e2f1- and not p53-dependent. Importantly, the enhanced transcriptional activity of e2f1 was dependent on the kinase activity of CDK8 itself and not on the assembling of the mediator complex. In addition, clinical inhibitor, and in vivo studies confirmed the radiosensitizing effect of CDK8. Our results provide a new targeting strategy to improve the radiotherapy of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Chen
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Pengbo Wen
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Guanshuo Hu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojing Qi
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Kaili Zhu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Shaopeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - An Xu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Guoping Zhao
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
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29
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Martínez-Alonso D, Malumbres M. Mammalian cell cycle cyclins. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 107:28-35. [PMID: 32334991 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Proper progression throughout the cell division cycle depends on the expression level of a family of proteins known as cyclins, and the subsequent activation of cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks). Among the numerous members of the mammalian cyclin family, only a few of them, cyclins A, B, C, D and E, are known to display critical roles in the cell cycle. These functions will be reviewed here with a special focus on their relevance in different cell types in vivo and their implications in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Martínez-Alonso
- Cell Division and Cancer Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) Madrid, Spain.
| | - Marcos Malumbres
- Cell Division and Cancer Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) Madrid, Spain.
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30
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Al-Sanea MM. Synthesis and biological evaluation of small molecule modulators of CDK8/Cyclin C complex with phenylaminoquinoline scaffold. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8649. [PMID: 32206448 PMCID: PMC7075364 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CDK8/CycC complex has kinase activity towards the carboxyterminal domain of RNA polymerase II, and contributes to the regulation of transcription via association with the mediator complex. Different human malignancies, mainly colorectal and gastric cancers, were produced as a result of overexpression of CDK8/CycC in the mediator complex. Therefore, CDK8/CycC complex represents as a cancer oncogene and it has become a potential target for developing CDK8/CycC modulators. Methods A series of nine 4-phenylaminoquinoline scaffold-based compounds 5a-i was synthesized, and biologically evaluated as potential CDK8/CycC complex inhibitors. Results The scaffold substituent effects on the intrinsic inhibitory activity toward CDK8/CycC complex are addressed trying to present a novel outlook of CDK8/CycC Complex inhibitors with 4-phenylaminoquinoline scaffold in cancer therapy. The secondary benzenesulfonamide analogues proved to be the most potent compounds in suppressing CDK8/CycC enzyme, whereas, their primary benzenesulfonamide analogues showed inferior activity. Moreover, the benzene reversed sulfonamide analogues were totally inactive. Discussion The titled scaffold showed promising inhibitory activity data and there is a crucial role of un/substituted sulfonamido group for CDK8/CycC complex inhibitory activity. Compound 5d showed submicromolar potency against CDK8/CycC (IC50 = 0.639 µM) and it can be used for further investigations and to design another larger library of phenylaminoquinoline scaffold-based analogues in order to establish detailed SARs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Al-Sanea
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
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31
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Ma D, Chen X, Shen XB, Sheng LQ, Liu XH. Binding patterns and structure–activity relationship of CDK8 inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2020; 96:103624. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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32
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Systemic Toxicity Reported for CDK8/19 Inhibitors CCT251921 and MSC2530818 Is Not Due to Target Inhibition. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111413. [PMID: 31717492 PMCID: PMC6912361 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CDK8/19 kinases, which mediate transcriptional reprogramming, have become an active target for cancer drug discovery. Several small-molecule CDK8/19 inhibitors showed in vivo efficacy and two have entered clinical trials, with no significant toxicities reported. However, Clarke et al. (eLife 2016; 5; e20722) found severe systemic toxicity associated with two potent CDK8/19 inhibitors, Cmpd3 (CCT251921) and Cmpd4 (MSC2530818), and suggested that their toxicity was due to on-target effects. Here, we compared five CDK8/19 inhibitors: Cmpd3, Cmpd4, Senexin B, 16-didehydro-cortistatin A (dCA) and 15w, in different assays. Only Cmpd4 showed striking toxicity in developing zebrafish. In cell-based assays for CDK8 and CDK19 inhibition, Cmpd3, Cmpd4, dCA and 15w showed similar low-nanomolar potency and efficacy against CDK8 and CDK19, while Senexin B was less potent. Only dCA produced sustained inhibition of CDK8/19-dependent gene expression. While toxicity of different compounds did not correlate with their effects on CDK8 and CDK19, kinome profiling identified several off-target kinases for both Cmpd3 and Cmpd4, which could be responsible for their toxicity. Off-target activities could have been achieved in the study of Clarke et al. due to high in vivo doses of Cmpd3 and Cmpd4, chosen for the ability to inhibit STAT1 S727 phosphorylation in tumor xenografts. We show here that STAT1 S727 phosphorylation is induced by various cytokines and stress stimuli in CDK8/19-independent manner, indicating that it is not a reliable pharmacodynamic marker of CDK8/19 activity. These results illustrate the need for careful off-target analysis and dose selection in the development of CDK8/19 inhibitors.
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