1
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Zhao C, Zhao F, Yang L, Wang Y, Wang H, Fang F, Zuo H, Li Z, He G, Zhan W, Ma X. Directly Suppressing MYC Function with Novel Alkynyl-Substituted Phenylpyrazole Derivatives that Induce Protein Degradation and Perturb MYC/MAX Interaction. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11751-11768. [PMID: 38989847 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite being a highly sought-after therapeutic target for human malignancies, myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homologue (MYC) has been considered intractable due to its intrinsically disordered nature, making the discovery of in vivo effective inhibitors that directly block its function challenging. Herein, we report structurally novel alkynyl-substituted phenylpyrazole derivatives directly perturbing MYC function. Among them, compound 37 exhibited superior antiproliferative activities to those of MYCi975 against multiple malignant cell lines. It induced dose-dependent MYC degradation in cells with degradation observed at the concentration as low as 1.0 μM. Meanwhile, its direct suppression of MYC function was confirmed by the capability to inhibit the binding of MYC/MYC-associated protein X (MAX) heterodimer to DNA consensus sequence, induce MYC thermal instability, and disturb MYC/MAX interaction. Moreover, 37 demonstrated enhanced therapeutic efficacy over MYCi975 in a mouse allograft model of prostate cancer. Overall, 37 deserves further development for exploring MYC-targeting cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Fang Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Liuqing Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Yang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Henian Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Fang Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Haojie Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Zhi Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Ge He
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Wenhu Zhan
- iCarbonX (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Xiaodong Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
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2
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Maroni P, Pesce NA, Lombardi G. RNA-binding proteins in bone pathophysiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1412268. [PMID: 38966428 PMCID: PMC11222650 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1412268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Bone remodelling is a highly regulated process that maintains mineral homeostasis and preserves bone integrity. During this process, intricate communication among all bone cells is required. Indeed, adapt to changing functional situations in the bone, the resorption activity of osteoclasts is tightly balanced with the bone formation activity of osteoblasts. Recent studies have reported that RNA Binding Proteins (RBPs) are involved in bone cell activity regulation. RBPs are critical effectors of gene expression and essential regulators of cell fate decision, due to their ability to bind and regulate the activity of cellular RNAs. Thus, a better understanding of these regulation mechanisms at molecular and cellular levels could generate new knowledge on the pathophysiologic conditions of bone. In this Review, we provide an overview of the basic properties and functions of selected RBPs, focusing on their physiological and pathological roles in the bone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Maroni
- Laboratory of Experimental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milano, Italy
| | - Noemi Anna Pesce
- Laboratory of Experimental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lombardi
- Laboratory of Experimental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milano, Italy
- Department of Athletics, Strength and Conditioning, Poznań University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
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3
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Yuan XN, Shao YC, Guan XQ, Liu Q, Chu MF, Yang ZL, Li H, Zhao S, Tian YH, Zhang JW, Wei L. METTL3 orchestrates glycolysis by stabilizing the c-Myc/WDR5 complex in triple-negative breast cancer. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119716. [PMID: 38547933 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The carcinogenic transcription factor c-Myc is the most aggressive oncogene, which drive malignant transformation and dissemination of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Recruitment of many cofactors, especially WDR5, a protein that nucleates H3K4me chromatin modifying complexes, play a pivotal role in regulating c-Myc-dependent gene transcription, a critical process for c-Myc signaling to function in a variety of biological and pathological contexts. For this reason, interrupting the interaction between c-Myc and the transcription cofactor WDR5 may become the most promising new strategy for treating c-Myc driven TNBC. METHODS Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry (IP-MS) is used to screen proteins that bind c-Myc/WDR5 interactions. The interaction of METTL3 with c-Myc/WDR5 in breast cancer tissues and TNBC cells was detected by Co-IP and immunofluorescence. Subsequently, we further analyzed the influence of METTL3 expression on c-Myc/WDR5 protein expression and its interaction stability by Western blot and Co-IP. The correlation between METTL3 and c-Myc pathway was analyzed by ChIP-seq sequencing and METTL3 knockdown transcriptome data. The effect of METTL3 expression on c-Myc transcriptional activity was detected by ChIP-qPCR and Dual Luciferase Reporter. At the same time, the overexpression vector METTL3-MUT (m6A) was constructed, which mutated the methyltransferase active site (Aa395-398, DPPW/APPA), and further explored whether the interaction between METTL3 and c-Myc/WDR5 was independent of methyltransferase activity. In addition, we also detected the changes of METTL3 expression on TNBC's sensitivity to small molecule inhibitors such as JQ1 and OICR9429 by CCK8, Transwell and clonal formation assays. Finally, we further verified our conclusions in spontaneous tumor formation mouse MMTV-PyMT and nude mouse orthotopic transplantation tumor models. RESULTS METTL3 was found to bind mainly to c-Myc/WDR5 protein in the nucleus. It enhances the stability of c-Myc/WDR5 interaction through its methyltransferase independent mechanism, thereby enhancing the transcriptional activity of c-Myc on downstream glucose metabolism genes. Notably, the study also confirmed that METTL3 can directly participate in the transcription of glucose metabolism genes as a transcription factor, and knockdown METTL3 enhances the drug sensitivity of breast cancer cells to small molecule inhibitors JQ1 and OICR9429. The study was further confirmed by spontaneous tumor formation mouse MMTV-PyMT and nude mouse orthotopic transplantation tumor models. CONCLUSION METTL3 binds to the c-Myc/WDR5 protein complex and promotes glycolysis, which plays a powerful role in promoting TNBC progression. Our findings further broaden our understanding of the role and mechanism of action of METTL3, and may open up new therapeutic avenues for effective treatment of TNBC with high c-Myc expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ning Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - You-Cheng Shao
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Xiao-Qing Guan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Meng-Fei Chu
- Department of Human Anatomy, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Ze-Lin Yang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Sai Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China
| | - Yi-Hao Tian
- Department of Human Anatomy, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China.
| | - Jing-Wei Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China.
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, PR China.
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4
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Zhang H, Sun Y, Wang Z, Huang X, Tang L, Jiang K, Jin X. ZDHHC20-mediated S-palmitoylation of YTHDF3 stabilizes MYC mRNA to promote pancreatic cancer progression. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4642. [PMID: 38821916 PMCID: PMC11143236 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49105-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications of proteins in malignant transformation and tumor maintenance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in the context of KRAS signaling remain poorly understood. Here, we use the KPC mouse model to examine the effect of palmitoylation on pancreatic cancer progression. ZDHHC20, upregulated by KRAS, is abnormally overexpressed and associated with poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer. Dysregulation of ZDHHC20 promotes pancreatic cancer progression in a palmitoylation-dependent manner. ZDHHC20 inhibits the chaperone-mediated autophagic degradation of YTHDF3 through S-palmitoylation of Cys474, which can result in abnormal accumulation of the oncogenic product MYC and thereby promote the malignant phenotypes of cancer cells. Further, we design a biologically active YTHDF3-derived peptide to competitively inhibit YTHDF3 palmitoylation mediated by ZDHHC20, which in turn downregulates MYC expression and inhibits the progression of KRAS mutant pancreatic cancer. Thus, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting the ZDHHC20-YTHDF3-MYC signaling axis in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zhaokai Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiaoju Huang
- Cancer center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Ke Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Urology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
- Uro-Oncology Institute of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
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5
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Volegova MP, Brown LE, Banerjee U, Dries R, Sharma B, Kennedy A, Porco JA, George RE. The MYCN 5' UTR as a therapeutic target in neuroblastoma. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114134. [PMID: 38662542 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor MYCN amplification is seen in high-risk neuroblastoma, yet direct targeting of this oncogenic transcription factor has been challenging. Here, we take advantage of the dependence of MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cells on increased protein synthesis to inhibit the activity of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A1 (eIF4A1) using an amidino-rocaglate, CMLD012824. Consistent with the role of this RNA helicase in resolving structural barriers in 5' untranslated regions (UTRs), CMLD012824 increased eIF4A1 affinity for polypurine-rich 5' UTRs, including that of the MYCN and associated transcripts with critical roles in cell proliferation. CMLD012824-mediated clamping of eIF4A1 spanned the full lengths of mRNAs, while translational inhibition was mediated through 5' UTR binding in a cap-dependent and -independent manner. Finally, CMLD012824 led to growth inhibition in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma models without generalized toxicity. Our studies highlight the key role of eIF4A1 in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma and demonstrate the therapeutic potential of disrupting its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina P Volegova
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren E Brown
- Boston University, Center for Molecular Discovery (BU-CMD), Boston, MA, USA; Boston University, Department of Chemistry, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ushashi Banerjee
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ruben Dries
- Boston University School of Medicine, Computational Biomedicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bandana Sharma
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Alyssa Kennedy
- Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John A Porco
- Boston University, Center for Molecular Discovery (BU-CMD), Boston, MA, USA; Boston University, Department of Chemistry, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rani E George
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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6
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Li S, Wang Y, Yin J, Li K, Liu L, Gao J. Design, synthesis, and activity evaluation of 2-iminobenzimidazoles as c-Myc inhibitors for treating multiple myeloma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28411. [PMID: 38590884 PMCID: PMC10999938 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy that remains incurable and poses a significant threat to global public health. The multifunctional transcription factor c-Myc plays a crucial role in various cellular processes and is closely associated with MM progression. As part of the basic-helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper (bHLHZip) family, c-Myc forms heterodimers with its obligate partner Max, binds to the Enhancer-box (E-box) of DNA, and ultimately co-regulates gene expression. Therefore, impeding the capacity for heterodimerization to bind to DNA represents a favored strategy in thwarting c-Myc transcription. In this study, we first synthesized a series of novel 2-iminobenzimidazole derivatives and further estimated their potential anti-MM activity. Notably, among all the derivatives, 5b and 5d demonstrated remarkable inhibitory activity against RPMI-8226 and U266 cells, with IC50 values of 0.85 μM and 0.97 μM for compound 5b, and 0.96 μM and 0.89 μM for compound 5d. Western blot and dual-luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that compounds 5b and 5d effectively suppressed both c-Myc protein expression and transcriptional activity of the c-Myc promoter in RPMI-8226 and U266 cells. Furthermore, these compounds induced apoptosis and G1 cell cycle arrest in the aforementioned MM cells. Molecular docking studies revealed that 5b and 5d exhibited strong binding affinity to the interface between c-Myc/Max and E-box of DNA. Taken together, our findings suggest that further investigations are warranted for potential therapeutic applications of 5b and 5d for c-Myc-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
| | - Yinchuan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
| | - Jiacheng Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
| | - Kaihang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
| | - Linlin Liu
- College of Medical Imaging, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
| | - Jian Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, PR China
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, PR China
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7
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Chan KI, Zhang S, Li G, Xu Y, Cui L, Wang Y, Su H, Tan W, Zhong Z. MYC Oncogene: A Druggable Target for Treating Cancers with Natural Products. Aging Dis 2024; 15:640-697. [PMID: 37450923 PMCID: PMC10917530 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0520] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Various diseases, including cancers, age-associated disorders, and acute liver failure, have been linked to the oncogene, MYC. Animal testing and clinical trials have shown that sustained tumor volume reduction can be achieved when MYC is inactivated, and different combinations of therapeutic agents including MYC inhibitors are currently being developed. In this review, we first provide a summary of the multiple biological functions of the MYC oncoprotein in cancer treatment, highlighting that the equilibrium points of the MYC/MAX, MIZ1/MYC/MAX, and MAD (MNT)/MAX complexes have further potential in cancer treatment that could be used to restrain MYC oncogene expression and its functions in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the multifunctional capacity of MYC in various cellular cancer processes, including its influences on immune response, metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, multidrug resistance, and intestinal flora. Moreover, we summarize the MYC therapy patent landscape and emphasize the potential of MYC as a druggable target, using herbal medicine modulators. Finally, we describe pending challenges and future perspectives in biomedical research, involving the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate MYC or its targeted genes. Patients with cancers driven by MYC signaling may benefit from therapies targeting these pathways, which could delay cancerous growth and recover antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Iong Chan
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Siyuan Zhang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Guodong Li
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Yida Xu
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Liao Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
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8
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Papadimitropoulou A, Makri M, Zoidis G. MYC the oncogene from hell: Novel opportunities for cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116194. [PMID: 38340508 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116194] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer comprises a heterogeneous disease, characterized by diverse features such as constitutive expression of oncogenes and/or downregulation of tumor suppressor genes. MYC constitutes a master transcriptional regulator, involved in many cellular functions and is aberrantly expressed in more than 70 % of human cancers. The Myc protein belongs to a family of transcription factors whose structural pattern is referred to as basic helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper. Myc binds to its partner, a smaller protein called Max, forming an Myc:Max heterodimeric complex that interacts with specific DNA recognition sequences (E-boxes) and regulates the expression of downstream target genes. Myc protein plays a fundamental role for the life of a cell, as it is involved in many physiological functions such as proliferation, growth and development since it controls the expression of a very large percentage of genes (∼15 %). However, despite the strict control of MYC expression in normal cells, MYC is often deregulated in cancer, exhibiting a key role in stimulating oncogenic process affecting features such as aberrant proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, genomic instability and oncogenic transformation. In this review we aim to meticulously describe the fundamental role of MYC in tumorigenesis and highlight its importance as an anticancer drug target. We focus mainly on the different categories of novel small molecules that act as inhibitors of Myc function in diverse ways hence offering great opportunities for an efficient cancer therapy. This knowledge will provide significant information for the development of novel Myc inhibitors and assist to the design of treatments that would effectively act against Myc-dependent cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Papadimitropoulou
- Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, 11527, Greece
| | - Maria Makri
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Grigoris Zoidis
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771, Athens, Greece.
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9
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Kouroukli O, Bravou V, Giannitsas K, Tzelepi V. Tissue-Based Diagnostic Biomarkers of Aggressive Variant Prostate Cancer: A Narrative Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:805. [PMID: 38398199 PMCID: PMC10887410 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) is a common malignancy among elderly men, characterized by great heterogeneity in its clinical course, ranging from an indolent to a highly aggressive disease. The aggressive variant of prostate cancer (AVPC) clinically shows an atypical pattern of disease progression, similar to that of small cell PC (SCPC), and also shares the chemo-responsiveness of SCPC. The term AVPC does not describe a specific histologic subtype of PC but rather the group of tumors that, irrespective of morphology, show an aggressive clinical course, dictated by androgen receptor (AR) indifference. AR indifference represents an adaptive response to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), driven by epithelial plasticity, an inherent ability of tumor cells to adapt to their environment by changing their phenotypic characteristics in a bi-directional way. The molecular profile of AVPC entails combined alterations in the tumor suppressor genes retinoblastoma protein 1 (RB1), tumor protein 53 (TP53), and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). The understanding of the biologic heterogeneity of castration-resistant PC (CRPC) and the need to identify the subset of patients that would potentially benefit from specific therapies necessitate the development of prognostic and predictive biomarkers. This review aims to discuss the possible pathophysiologic mechanisms of AVPC development and the potential use of emerging tissue-based biomarkers in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kouroukli
- Department of Pathology, Evaggelismos General Hospital, 10676 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Bravou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | | | - Vasiliki Tzelepi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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10
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Venkatraman S, Balasubramanian B, Thuwajit C, Meller J, Tohtong R, Chutipongtanate S. Targeting MYC at the intersection between cancer metabolism and oncoimmunology. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1324045. [PMID: 38390324 PMCID: PMC10881682 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1324045] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MYC activation is a known hallmark of cancer as it governs the gene targets involved in various facets of cancer progression. Of interest, MYC governs oncometabolism through the interactions with its partners and cofactors, as well as cancer immunity via its gene targets. Recent investigations have taken interest in characterizing these interactions through multi-Omic approaches, to better understand the vastness of the MYC network. Of the several gene targets of MYC involved in either oncometabolism or oncoimmunology, few of them overlap in function. Prominent interactions have been observed with MYC and HIF-1α, in promoting glucose and glutamine metabolism and activation of antigen presentation on regulatory T cells, and its subsequent metabolic reprogramming. This review explores existing knowledge of the role of MYC in oncometabolism and oncoimmunology. It also unravels how MYC governs transcription and influences cellular metabolism to facilitate the induction of pro- or anti-tumoral immunity. Moreover, considering the significant roles MYC holds in cancer development, the present study discusses effective direct or indirect therapeutic strategies to combat MYC-driven cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Venkatraman
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Brinda Balasubramanian
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Chanitra Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jaroslaw Meller
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Rutaiwan Tohtong
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somchai Chutipongtanate
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Milk, microbiome, Immunity and Lactation research for Child Health (MILCH) and Novel Therapeutics Lab, Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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11
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Khalid KM, Ratnayake WS, Apostolatos CA, Acevedo-Duncan M. Dual inhibition of atypical PKC signaling and PI3K/Akt signaling dysregulates c-Myc to induce apoptosis in clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1213715. [PMID: 38288105 PMCID: PMC10823017 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1213715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer (85%). 75% of the RCC cases involve conventional clear cell RCC (ccRCC). Approximately, 39% of late-stage patients (stage IV) are treated with chemotherapeutic agents. Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) pathways are frequently activated in RCC. In addition, atypical PKCs (PKC-ί and PKC ζ) are overexpressed in most cancer cells, and they play a central role in tumor progression and the metastasis of different types of cancers. Our goal is to establish the role of aPKCs in the regulation of multiple key activated pathways in ccRCC. In this study, we also established a novel therapeutic regimen for dual inhibition of key activated pathways. Method In this study, 786-0 and Caki-1 cells were studied and subjected to cell viability assay, western blot analysis, scratch & wound healing assay, transwell invasion assay, immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. We used combination of PI3K inhibitor- Alpelisib (BYL719) and ICA-1 (a PKC-ι-specific 5-amino-1-2,3-dihydroxy-4-(methylcyclopentyl)-1H-imidazole-4-carboxamide). In addition to drug treatment, small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology was used to further confirm the experimental outcome of the drug treatment. Results Our results suggest that treatment of ccRCC cells with a combination of ICA-1 (aPKC inhibitor) and BYL719 (PI3K inhibitor) downregulates PKC-ί and causes downstream inhibition of c-Myc. Inhibition of the PKCί also reduces activation of MEK/ERK1/2. It is observed that treatment with ICA-1 disrupts the level of the aPKC-Akt1 association. ICA-1 treatment also shows a reduced level of association between aPKC and c-Myc. The inhibition of aPKCs and downstream effector proteins by combination therapy is more pronounced compared to a single therapy. These effects contribute to reduced cell growth, and eventually, the induction of apoptosis. The decreased level of N-cadherin, p-vimentin, and vimentin and the increased level of E-cadherin confirm reduced malignancy. Conclusion Therefore, implementing a combination of Alpelisib and a PKC-ι inhibitor is an effective approach to reducing cell proliferation, and invasion that eventually induces apoptosis and may be considered as a potential therapeutic option in ccRCC.
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12
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Zhang E, Chen Z, Liu W, Lin L, Wu L, Guan J, Wang J, Kong C, Bi J, Zhang M. NCAPG2 promotes prostate cancer malignancy and stemness via STAT3/c-MYC signaling. J Transl Med 2024; 22:12. [PMID: 38166947 PMCID: PMC10763290 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04834-9] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men worldwide, and its incidence has risen substantially in recent years. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify novel biomarkers and precise therapeutic targets for managing PCa progression and recurrence. METHODS We investigated the clinical significance of NCAPG2 in PCa by exploring public datasets and our tissue microarray. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and survival analyses were performed to evaluate the correlation between NCAPG2 and PCa progression. Cell proliferation, wound healing, transwell, flow cytometry, cell cycle, tumor sphere formation, immunofluorescence (IF), co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were conducted to further elucidate the molecular mechanism of NCAPG2 in PCa. Subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models were applied to investigate the effects of NCAPG2 on PCa proliferation in vivo. Tandem mass tag (TMT) quantitative proteomics was utilized to detect proteomic changes under NCAPG2 overexpression. RESULTS NCAPG2 was significantly upregulated in PCa, and its overexpression was associated with PCa progression and unfavorable prognosis. Knockdown of NCAPG2 inhibited the malignant behavior of PCa cells, whereas its overexpression promoted PCa aggressiveness. NCAPG2 depletion attenuated the development and growth of PCa in vivo. TMT quantitative proteomics analyses indicated that c-MYC activity was strongly correlated with NCAPG2 expression. The malignancy-promoting effect of NCAPG2 in PCa was mediated via c-MYC. NCAPG2 could directly bind to STAT3 and induce STAT3 occupancy on the MYC promoter, thus to transcriptionally activate c-MYC expression. Finally, we identified that NCAPG2 was positively correlated with cancer stem cell (CSC) markers and enhanced self-renewal capacity of PCa cells. CONCLUSIONS NCAPG2 is highly expressed in PCa, and its level is significantly associated with PCa prognosis. NCAPG2 promotes PCa malignancy and drives cancer stemness via the STAT3/c-MYC signaling axis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enchong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Shenjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhengjie Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Institute of Urology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wangmin Liu
- Department of Urology, Shenjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lina Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Johnny Guan
- Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Institute of Urology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chuize Kong
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Institute of Urology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jianbin Bi
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Institute of Urology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Mo Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Institute of Urology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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13
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Lee H, Jung JH, Ko HM, Park H, Segall AM, Sheffmaker RL, Wang J, Frey WD, Pham N, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Jackson JG, Zeng SX, Lu H. RNA-binding motif protein 10 inactivates c-Myc by partnering with ribosomal proteins uL18 and uL5. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2308292120. [PMID: 38032932 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308292120] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding motif protein 10 (RBM10) is a frequently mutated tumor suppressor in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Yet, it remains unknown whether cancer-derived mutant RBM10 compromises its tumor suppression function and, if so, the molecular insight of the underlying mechanisms. Here, we show that wild-type RBM10 suppresses lung cancer cell growth and proliferation by inactivating c-Myc that is essential for cancer cell survival. RBM10 directly binds to c-Myc and promotes c-Myc's ubiquitin-dependent degradation, while RBM10 knockdown leads to the induction of c-Myc level and activity. This negative action on c-Myc is further boosted by ribosomal proteins (RPs) uL18 (RPL5) and uL5 (RPL11) via their direct binding to RBM10. Cancer-derived mutant RBM10-I316F fails to bind to uL18 and uL5 and to inactivate c-Myc, thus incapable of suppressing tumorigenesis. Our findings uncover RBM10 as a pivotal c-Myc repressor by cooperating with uL18 and uL5 in lung cancer cells, as its failure to do so upon mutation favors tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyemin Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Ji Hoon Jung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Hyun Min Ko
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Heewon Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Allyson M Segall
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Department of Neuroscience, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
| | - Roger L Sheffmaker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
| | - Jieqiong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Wesley D Frey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Nathan Pham
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Yongbo Wang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - James G Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Shelya X Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
| | - Hua Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112
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14
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Negri A, Marozzi M, Trisciuoglio D, Rotili D, Mai A, Rizzi F. Simultaneous administration of EZH2 and BET inhibitors inhibits proliferation and clonogenic ability of metastatic prostate cancer cells. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2163242. [PMID: 36629431 PMCID: PMC9848337 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2163242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a common treatment for recurrent prostate cancer (PC). However, after a certain period of responsiveness, ADT resistance occurs virtually in all patients and the disease progresses to lethal metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Aberrant expression and function of the epigenetic modifiers EZH2 and BET over activates c-myc, an oncogenic transcription factor critically contributing to mCRPC. In the present work, we tested, for the first time, the combination of an EZH2 inhibitor with a BET inhibitor in metastatic PC cells. The combination outperformed single drugs in inhibiting cell viability, cell proliferation and clonogenic ability, and concomitantly reduced both c-myc and NF-kB expression. Although these promising results will warrant further in vivo validation, they represent the first step to establishing the rationale that the proposed combination might be suitable for mCRPC treatment, by exploiting molecular targets different from androgen receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aide Negri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marina Marozzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Daniela Trisciuoglio
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IMBP), National Research Council (CNR) c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin,” Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Rizzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy,National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy,CONTACT Federica Rizzi Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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15
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Longoria-García S, Sánchez-Domínguez CN, Sánchez-Domínguez M, Delgado-Balderas JR, Islas-Cisneros JF, Vidal-Gutiérrez O, Gallardo-Blanco HL. Design and Characterization of pMyc/pMax Peptide-Coupled Gold Nanosystems for Targeting Myc in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2802. [PMID: 37887952 PMCID: PMC10609645 DOI: 10.3390/nano13202802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Myc and Max are essential proteins in the development of prostate cancer. They act by dimerizing and binding to E-box sequences. Disrupting the Myc:Max heterodimer interaction or its binding to E-box sequences to interrupt gene transcription represent promising strategies for treating cancer. We designed novel pMyc and pMax peptides from reference sequences, and we evaluated their ability to bind specifically to E-box sequences using an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Then, we assembled nanosystems (NSs) by coupling pMyc and pMax peptides to AuNPs, and determined peptide conjugation using UV-Vis spectroscopy. After that, we characterized the NS to obtain the nanoparticle's size, hydrodynamic diameter, and zeta potential. Finally, we evaluated hemocompatibility and cytotoxic effects in three different prostate adenocarcinoma cell lines (LNCaP, PC-3, and DU145) and a non-cancerous cell line (Vero CCL-81). EMSA results suggests peptide-nucleic acid interactions between the pMyc:pMax dimer and the E-box. The hemolysis test showed little hemolytic activity for the NS at the concentrations (5, 0.5, and 0.05 ng/µL) we evaluated. Cell viability assays showed NS cytotoxicity. Overall, results suggest that the NS with pMyc and pMax peptides might be suitable for further research regarding Myc-driven prostate adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Longoria-García
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | - Celia N. Sánchez-Domínguez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | - Margarita Sánchez-Domínguez
- Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados, S.C. (CIMAV, S.C.), Unidad Monterrey, Apodaca 66628, Mexico
| | - Jesús R. Delgado-Balderas
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Avenida Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Mexico
| | - José F. Islas-Cisneros
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico
| | - Oscar Vidal-Gutiérrez
- Servicio de Oncología, Centro Universitario Contra el Cáncer (CUCC), Hospital Universitario “Dr. José Eleuterio González”, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 66451, Mexico
| | - Hugo L. Gallardo-Blanco
- Servicio de Oncología, Centro Universitario Contra el Cáncer (CUCC), Hospital Universitario “Dr. José Eleuterio González”, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 66451, Mexico
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16
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Xie X, Yu T, Li X, Zhang N, Foster LJ, Peng C, Huang W, He G. Recent advances in targeting the "undruggable" proteins: from drug discovery to clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:335. [PMID: 37669923 PMCID: PMC10480221 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Undruggable proteins are a class of proteins that are often characterized by large, complex structures or functions that are difficult to interfere with using conventional drug design strategies. Targeting such undruggable targets has been considered also a great opportunity for treatment of human diseases and has attracted substantial efforts in the field of medicine. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the recent development of drug discovery targeting "undruggable" proteins and their application in clinic. To make this review well organized, we discuss the design strategies targeting the undruggable proteins, including covalent regulation, allosteric inhibition, protein-protein/DNA interaction inhibition, targeted proteins regulation, nucleic acid-based approach, immunotherapy and others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tingting Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology and School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Gu He
- Department of Dermatology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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17
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Elshafie NO, Gribskov M, Lichti NI, Sayedahmed EE, Childress MO, dos Santos AP. miRNome expression analysis in canine diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1238613. [PMID: 37711209 PMCID: PMC10499539 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1238613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lymphoma is a common canine cancer with translational relevance to human disease. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most frequent subtype, contributing to almost fifty percent of clinically recognized lymphoma cases. Identifying new biomarkers capable of early diagnosis and monitoring DLBCL is crucial for enhancing remission rates. This research seeks to advance our knowledge of the molecular biology of DLBCL by analyzing the expression of microRNAs, which regulate gene expression by negatively impacting gene expression via targeted RNA degradation or translational repression. The stability and accessibility of microRNAs make them appropriate biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of diseases. Methods We extracted and sequenced microRNAs from ten fresh-frozen lymph node tissue samples (six DLBCL and four non-neoplastic). Results Small RNA sequencing data analysis revealed 35 differently expressed miRNAs (DEMs) compared to controls. RT-qPCR confirmed that 23/35 DEMs in DLBCL were significantly upregulated (n = 14) or downregulated (n = 9). Statistical significance was determined by comparing each miRNA's average expression fold-change (2-Cq) between the DLCBL and healthy groups by applying the unpaired parametric Welch's 2-sample t-test and false discovery rate (FDR). The predicted target genes of the DEMs were mainly enriched in the PI3K-Akt-MAPK pathway. Discussion Our data point to the potential value of miRNA signatures as diagnostic biomarkers and serve as a guideline for subsequent experimental studies to determine the targets and functions of these altered miRNAs in canine DLBCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly O. Elshafie
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Michael Gribskov
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Nathanael I. Lichti
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Ekramy. E. Sayedahmed
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Michael O. Childress
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Andrea P. dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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18
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Liu W, Chen L, Yin D, Yang Z, Feng J, Sun Q, Lai L, Guo X. Visualizing single-molecule conformational transition and binding dynamics of intrinsically disordered proteins. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5203. [PMID: 37626077 PMCID: PMC10457384 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41018-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) play crucial roles in cellular processes and hold promise as drug targets. However, the dynamic nature of IDPs remains poorly understood. Here, we construct a single-molecule electrical nanocircuit based on silicon nanowire field-effect transistors (SiNW-FETs) and functionalize it with an individual disordered c-Myc bHLH-LZ domain to enable label-free, in situ, and long-term measurements at the single-molecule level. We use the device to study c-Myc interaction with Max and/or small molecule inhibitors. We observe the self-folding/unfolding process of c-Myc and reveal its interaction mechanism with Max and inhibitors through ultrasensitive real-time monitoring. We capture a relatively stable encounter intermediate ensemble of c-Myc during its transition from the unbound state to the fully folded state. The c-Myc/Max and c-Myc/inhibitor dissociation constants derived are consistent with other ensemble experiments. These proof-of-concept results provide an understanding of the IDP-binding/folding mechanism and represent a promising nanotechnology for IDP conformation/interaction studies and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhe Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Limin Chen
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Dongbao Yin
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zhiheng Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Jianfei Feng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Qi Sun
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
| | - Luhua Lai
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China.
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China.
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19
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Ma TP, Izrael-Tomasevic A, Mroue R, Budayeva H, Malhotra S, Raisner R, Evangelista M, Rose CM, Kirkpatrick DS, Yu K. AzidoTMT Enables Direct Enrichment and Highly Multiplexed Quantitation of Proteome-Wide Functional Residues. J Proteome Res 2023. [PMID: 37285454 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in targeted covalent inhibitors have aroused significant interest for their potential in drug development for difficult therapeutic targets. Proteome-wide profiling of functional residues is an integral step of covalent drug discovery aimed at defining actionable sites and evaluating compound selectivity in cells. A classical workflow for this purpose is called IsoTOP-ABPP, which employs an activity-based probe and two isotopically labeled azide-TEV-biotin tags to mark, enrich, and quantify proteome from two samples. Here we report a novel isobaric 11plex-AzidoTMT reagent and a new workflow, named AT-MAPP, that significantly expands multiplexing power as compared to the original isoTOP-ABPP. We demonstrate its application in identifying cysteine on- and off-targets using a KRAS G12C covalent inhibitor ARS-1620. However, changes in some of these hits can be explained by modulation at the protein and post-translational levels. Thus, it would be crucial to interrogate site-level bona fide changes in concurrence to proteome-level changes for corroboration. In addition, we perform a multiplexed covalent fragment screening using four acrylamide-based compounds as a proof-of-concept. This study identifies a diverse set of liganded cysteine residues in a compound-dependent manner with an average hit rate of 0.07% in intact cell. Lastly, we screened 20 sulfonyl fluoride-based compounds to demonstrate that the AT-MAPP assay is flexible for noncysteine functional residues such as tyrosine and lysine. Overall, we envision that 11plex-AzidoTMT will be a useful addition to the current toolbox for activity-based protein profiling and covalent drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylur P Ma
- Department of Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | | | - Rana Mroue
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Hanna Budayeva
- Department of Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | | | - Ryan Raisner
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Marie Evangelista
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Christopher M Rose
- Department of Microchemistry, Proteomics and Lipidomics, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Donald S Kirkpatrick
- Interline Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Kebing Yu
- Fuhong Biopharma, Inc., Shanghai 201206, China
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20
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Dall'Agnese G, Dall'Agnese A, Banani SF, Codrich M, Malfatti MC, Antoniali G, Tell G. Role of condensates in modulating DNA repair pathways and its implication for chemoresistance. J Biol Chem 2023:104800. [PMID: 37164156 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
For cells, it is important to repair DNA damage, such as double strand and single strand DNA breaks, because unrepaired DNA can compromise genetic integrity, potentially leading to cell death or cancer. Cells have multiple DNA damage repair pathways that have been the subject of detailed genetic, biochemical, and structural studies. Recently, the scientific community has started to gain evidence that the repair of DNA double strand breaks may occur within biomolecular condensates and that condensates may also contribute to DNA damage through concentrating genotoxic agents used to treat various cancers. Here, we summarize key features of biomolecular condensates and note where they have been implicated in the repair of DNA double strand breaks. We also describe evidence suggesting that condensates may be involved in the repair of other types of DNA damage, including single strand DNA breaks, nucleotide modifications (e.g., mismatch and oxidized bases) and bulky lesions, among others. Finally, we discuss old and new mysteries that could now be addressed considering the properties of condensates, including chemoresistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Dall'Agnese
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and DNA repair, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | - Salman F Banani
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marta Codrich
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and DNA repair, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Matilde Clarissa Malfatti
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and DNA repair, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giulia Antoniali
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and DNA repair, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tell
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and DNA repair, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy.
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21
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Saeed H, Leibowitz BJ, Zhang L, Yu J. Targeting Myc-driven stress addiction in colorectal cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 69:100963. [PMID: 37119690 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
MYC is a proto-oncogene that encodes a powerful regulator of transcription and cellular programs essential for normal development, as well as the growth and survival of various types of cancer cells. MYC rearrangement and amplification is a common cause of hematologic malignancies. In epithelial cancers such as colorectal cancer, genetic alterations in MYC are rare. Activation of Wnt, ERK/MAPK, and PI3K/mTOR pathways dramatically increases Myc levels through enhanced transcription, translation, and protein stability. Elevated Myc promotes stress adaptation, metabolic reprogramming, and immune evasion to drive cancer development and therapeutic resistance through broad changes in transcriptional and translational landscapes. Despite intense interest and effort, Myc remains a difficult drug target. Deregulation of Myc and its targets has profound effects that vary depending on the type of cancer and the context. Here, we summarize recent advances in the mechanistic understanding of Myc-driven oncogenesis centered around mRNA translation and proteostress. Promising strategies and agents under development to target Myc are also discussed with a focus on colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Saeed
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brian J Leibowitz
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Chemical Biology and Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jian Yu
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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22
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Long H, Hou Y, Li J, Song C, Ge Z. Azacitidine Is Synergistically Lethal with XPO1 Inhibitor Selinexor in Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Targeting XPO1/eIF4E/c-MYC Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076816. [PMID: 37047788 PMCID: PMC10094826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a high-mortality malignancy with poor outcomes. Azacitidine induces cell death and demonstrates treatment effectiveness against AML. Selinexor (KPT-330) exhibited significant benefits in combination with typical induction treatment for AML patients. Here, we explore the antitumor effect of KPT-330 combined with AZA in AML through CCK-8, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, western blot, and RNA-seq. Our results showed that KPT-330 combined with AZA synergistically reduced cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in AML primary cells and cell lines. Compared to the control, the KPT-330 plus AZA down-regulates the expression of XPO1, eIF4E, and c-MYC in AML. Moreover, the knockdown of c-MYC could sensitize the synergy of the combination on suppression of cell proliferation and promotion of apoptosis in AML. Moreover, the expression of XPO1 and eIF4E was elevated in AML patient cohorts, respectively. XPO1 and elF4E overexpression was associated with poor prognosis. In summary, KPT-330 with AZA exerted synergistic effects by suppressing XPO1/eIF4E/c-MYC signaling, which provided preclinical evidence for further clinical application of the novel combination in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huideng Long
- Department of Hematology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Institute of Hematology Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Hou
- Department of Hematology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Institute of Hematology Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Institute of Hematology Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chunhua Song
- Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University Medical College, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
- Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, The James Cancer Hospital, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Zheng Ge
- Department of Hematology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Institute of Hematology Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
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23
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Hu A, Chen G, Bao B, Guo Y, Li D, Wang X, Wang J, Li Q, Zhou Y, Gao H, Song J, Du X, Zheng L, Tong Q. Therapeutic targeting of CNBP phase separation inhibits ribosome biogenesis and neuroblastoma progression via modulating SWI/SNF complex activity. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1235. [PMID: 37186134 PMCID: PMC10131295 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1235] [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: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial malignancy in childhood; however, the mechanisms underlying its aggressive characteristics still remain elusive. METHODS Integrative data analysis was performed to reveal tumour-driving transcriptional regulators. Co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry assays were applied for protein interaction studies. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, sequential chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were carried out to explore gene expression regulation. The biological characteristics of NB cell lines were examined via gain- and loss-of-function assays. For survival analysis, the Cox regression model and log-rank tests were used. RESULTS Cellular nucleic acid-binding protein (CNBP) was found to be an independent factor affecting NB outcome, which exerted oncogenic roles in ribosome biogenesis, tumourigenesis and aggressiveness. Mechanistically, karyopherin subunit beta 1 (KPNB1) was responsible for nuclear transport of CNBP, whereas liquid condensates of CNBP repressed the activity of switch/sucrose-nonfermentable (SWI/SNF) core subunits (SMARCC2/SMARCC1/SMARCA4) via interaction with SMARCC2, leading to alternatively increased activity of SMARCC1/SMARCA4 binary complex in facilitating gene expression essential for 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) processing in tumour cells, extracellular vesicle-mediated delivery of 18S rRNA and subsequent M2 macrophage polarisation. A cell-penetrating peptide blocking phase separation and interaction of CNBP with SMARCC2 inhibited ribosome biogenesis and NB progression. High KPNB1, CNBP, SMARCC1 or SMARCA4 expression or low SMARCC2 levels were associated with poor survival of NB patients. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that CNBP phase separation is a target for inhibiting ribosome biogenesis and tumour progression in NB via modulating SWI/SNF complex activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anpei Hu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Guo Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Banghe Bao
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Yanhua Guo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
- Clinical Center of Human Genomic Research, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Jianqun Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Qilan Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Haiyang Gao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Jiyu Song
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Xinyi Du
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Liduan Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
- Clinical Center of Human Genomic Research, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
| | - Qiangsong Tong
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
- Clinical Center of Human Genomic Research, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P. R. China
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24
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Weidle UH, Birzele F. Triple-negative Breast Cancer: Identification of circRNAs With Efficacy in Preclinical In Vivo Models. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:117-131. [PMID: 36870692 PMCID: PMC9989670 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer with insufficient options for therapy. In order to identify new targets and treatment modalities we searched the literature for circular RNAs (circRNAs) which mediate efficacy in TNBC-related in vivo preclinical models. In addition to 5 down-regulated circRNAs which modulate tumor-suppressive pathways, we identified 15 up-regulated circRNAs. Down- and up-regulated refers to expression in corresponding non-transformed cells and tissues. The up-regulated circRNAs comprise five transmembrane receptors and secreted proteins as targets, five transcription factors and transcription-associated targets, four cell-cycle related circRNAs and one involved in paclitaxel resistance. In this review article we discuss drug-discovery related aspects and modalities of therapeutic intervention. Down-regulated circRNAs can be reconstituted by re-expression of corresponding circRNAs in tumor cells or up-regulation of corresponding targets. Up-regulated circRNAs can be inhibited by small-interfering RNA (siRNA) or short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-based approaches or inhibition of the corresponding targets with small molecules or antibody-related moieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Development, Roche Innovation Center, Penzberg, Germany;
| | - Fabian Birzele
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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25
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Karadkhelkar NM, Lin M, Eubanks LM, Janda KD. Demystifying the Druggability of the MYC Family of Oncogenes. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:3259-3269. [PMID: 36734615 PMCID: PMC10182829 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c12732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The MYC family of oncogenes (MYC, MYCN, and MYCL) encodes a basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper (bHLHLZ) transcriptional regulator that is responsible for moving the cell through the restriction point. Through the HLHZIP domain, MYC heterodimerizes with the bHLHLZ protein MAX, which enables this MYC-MAX complex to bind to E-box regulatory DNA elements thereby controlling transcription of a large group of genes and their proteins. Translationally, MYC is one of the foremost oncogenic targets, and deregulation of expression of the MYC family gene/proteins occurs in over half of all human tumors and is recognized as a hallmark of cancer initiation and maintenance. Additionally, unexpected roles for this oncoprotein have been found in cancers that nominally have a non-MYC etiology. Although MYC is rarely mutated, its gain of function in cancer results from overexpression or from amplification. Moreover, MYC is a pleiotropic transcription factor possessing broad pathogenic prominence making it a coveted cancer target. A widely held notion within the biomedical research community is that the reliable modulation of MYC represents a tremendous therapeutic opportunity given its role in directly potentiating oncogenesis. However, the MYC-MAX heterodimer interaction contains a large surface area with a lack of well-defined binding sites creating the perception that targeting of MYC-MAX is forbidding. Here, we discuss the biochemistry behind MYC and MYC-MAX as it relates to cancer progression associated with these transcription factors. We also discuss the notion that MYC should no longer be regarded as undruggable, providing examples that a therapeutic window is achievable despite global MYC inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant M. Karadkhelkar
- Departments of Chemistry and Immunology, The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Worm Institute of Research and Medicine (WIRM), The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Mingliang Lin
- Departments of Chemistry and Immunology, The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Worm Institute of Research and Medicine (WIRM), The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Lisa M. Eubanks
- Departments of Chemistry and Immunology, The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Worm Institute of Research and Medicine (WIRM), The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Kim D. Janda
- Departments of Chemistry and Immunology, The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Worm Institute of Research and Medicine (WIRM), The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
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26
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Ahmed SS, Rahman MO, Alqahtani AS, Sultana N, Almarfadi OM, Ali MA, Lee J. Anticancer potential of phytochemicals from Oroxylum indicum targeting Lactate Dehydrogenase A through bioinformatic approach. Toxicol Rep 2022; 10:56-75. [PMID: 36583135 PMCID: PMC9792705 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, small molecule inhibition of LDHA (Lactate Dehydrogenase A) has evolved as an appealing option for anticancer therapy. LDHA catalyzes the interconversion of pyruvate and lactate in the glycolysis pathway to play a crucial role in aerobic glycolysis. Therefore, in the current investigation LDHA was targeted with bioactive phytochemicals of an ethnomedicinally important plant species Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz. A total of 52 phytochemicals were screened against LDHA protein through molecular docking, ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity) assay and molecular dynamics simulation to reveal three potential lead compounds such as Chrysin-7-O-glucuronide (-8.2 kcal/mol), Oroxindin (-8.1 kcal/mol) and Oroxin A (-8.0 kcal/mol). ADMET assay unveiled favorable pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicity properties for all the lead compounds. Molecular dynamics simulation exhibited significant conformational stability and compactness. MM/GBSA free binding energy calculations further corroborated the selection of top candidates where Oroxindin (-46.47 kcal/mol) was found to be better than Chrysin-7-O-glucuronide (-45.72 kcal/mol) and Oroxin A (-37.25 kcal/mol). Aldolase reductase and Xanthine dehydrogenase enzymes were found as potential drug targets and Esculin, the FDA approved drug was identified as structurally analogous to Oroxindin. These results could drive in establishing novel medications targeting LDHA to fight cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M. Oliur Rahman
- Department of Botany, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh,Corresponding author.
| | - Ali S. Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahid Sultana
- Department of Botany, Jagannath University, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Omer M. Almarfadi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - M. Ajmal Ali
- Deperment of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Joongku Lee
- Department of Environment and Forest Resources, Chungnam National University, Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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27
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Orofiamma LA, Vural D, Antonescu CN. Control of cell metabolism by the epidermal growth factor receptor. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119359. [PMID: 36089077 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) triggers the activation of many intracellular signals that control cell proliferation, growth, survival, migration, and differentiation. Given its wide expression, EGFR has many functions in development and tissue homeostasis. Some of the cellular outcomes of EGFR signaling involve alterations of specific aspects of cellular metabolism, and alterations of cell metabolism are emerging as driving influences in many physiological and pathophysiological contexts. Here we review the mechanisms by which EGFR regulates cell metabolism, including by modulation of gene expression and protein function leading to control of glucose uptake, glycolysis, biosynthetic pathways branching from glucose metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipogenesis, and mitochondrial function. We further examine how this regulation of cell metabolism by EGFR may contribute to cell proliferation and differentiation and how EGFR-driven control of metabolism can impact certain diseases and therapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Orofiamma
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada; Graduate Program in Molecular Science, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Dafne Vural
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada; Graduate Program in Molecular Science, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Costin N Antonescu
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada; Graduate Program in Molecular Science, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada.
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28
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Traweek RS, Cope BM, Roland CL, Keung EZ, Nassif EF, Erstad DJ. Targeting the MDM2-p53 pathway in dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1006959. [PMID: 36439412 PMCID: PMC9684653 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1006959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is an aggressive adipogenic cancer with poor prognosis. DDLPS tumors are only modestly sensitive to chemotherapy and radiation, and there is a need for more effective therapies. Genetically, DDLPS is characterized by a low tumor mutational burden and frequent chromosomal structural abnormalities including amplification of the 12q13-15 chromosomal region and the MDM2 gene, which are defining features of DDLPS. The MDM2 protein is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that targets the tumor suppressor, p53, for proteasomal degradation. MDM2 amplification or overexpression in human malignancies is associated with cell-cycle progression and worse prognosis. The MDM2-p53 interaction has thus garnered interest as a therapeutic target for DDLPS and other malignancies. MDM2 binds p53 via a hydrophobic protein interaction that is easily accessible with synthetic analogues. Multiple agents have been developed, including Nutlins such as RG7112 and small molecular inhibitors including SAR405838 and HDM201. Preclinical in vitro and animal models have shown promising results with MDM2 inhibition, resulting in robust p53 reactivation and cancer cell death. However, multiple early-phase clinical trials have failed to show a benefit with MDM2 pathway inhibition for DDLPS. Mechanisms of resistance are being elucidated, and novel inhibitors and combination therapies are currently under investigation. This review provides an overview of these strategies for targeting MDM2 in DDLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond S. Traweek
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Brandon M. Cope
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Christina L. Roland
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Emily Z. Keung
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elise F. Nassif
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Derek J. Erstad
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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29
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Sodir NM, Pellegrinet L, Kortlever RM, Campos T, Kwon YW, Kim S, Garcia D, Perfetto A, Anastasiou P, Swigart LB, Arends MJ, Littlewood TD, Evan GI. Reversible Myc hypomorphism identifies a key Myc-dependency in early cancer evolution. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6782. [PMID: 36351945 PMCID: PMC9646778 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34079-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ-line hypomorphism of the pleiotropic transcription factor Myc in mice, either through Myc gene haploinsufficiency or deletion of Myc enhancers, delays onset of various cancers while mice remain viable and exhibit only relatively mild pathologies. Using a genetically engineered mouse model in which Myc expression may be systemically and reversibly hypomorphed at will, we asked whether this resistance to tumour progression is also emplaced when Myc hypomorphism is acutely imposed in adult mice. Indeed, adult Myc hypomorphism profoundly blocked KRasG12D-driven lung and pancreatic cancers, arresting their evolution at the early transition from indolent pre-tumour to invasive cancer. We show that such arrest is due to the incapacity of hypomorphic levels of Myc to drive release of signals that instruct the microenvironmental remodelling necessary to support invasive cancer. The cancer protection afforded by long-term adult imposition of Myc hypomorphism is accompanied by only mild collateral side effects, principally in haematopoiesis, but even these are circumvented if Myc hypomorphism is imposed metronomically whereas potent cancer protection is retained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Sodir
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK.
- Genentech, Department of Translational Oncology, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
| | - Luca Pellegrinet
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
| | | | - Tania Campos
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
| | | | - Shinseog Kim
- Center for Genomic Integrity, Institute for Basic Science, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel Garcia
- Oncogenesis Thematic Research Center at Bristol Myers Squibb, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | | | | | - Lamorna Brown Swigart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Mark J Arends
- Division of Pathology, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | | | - Gerard I Evan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK.
- The Francis Crick Institute, NW1 1AT, London, UK.
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30
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Geng X, Zhang Y, Li S, Liu L, Yao R, Liu L, Gao J. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel benzimidazolyl isoxazole derivatives as potential c-Myc G4 stabilizers to suppress c-Myc transcription and myeloma growth. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.134673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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31
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Donati G, Amati B. MYC and therapy resistance in cancer: risks and opportunities. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3828-3854. [PMID: 36214609 PMCID: PMC9627787 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The MYC transcription factor, encoded by the c-MYC proto-oncogene, is activated by growth-promoting signals, and is a key regulator of biosynthetic and metabolic pathways driving cell growth and proliferation. These same processes are deregulated in MYC-driven tumors, where they become critical for cancer cell proliferation and survival. As other oncogenic insults, overexpressed MYC induces a series of cellular stresses (metabolic, oxidative, replicative, etc.) collectively known as oncogenic stress, which impact not only on tumor progression, but also on the response to therapy, with profound, multifaceted consequences on clinical outcome. On one hand, recent evidence uncovered a widespread role for MYC in therapy resistance in multiple cancer types, with either standard chemotherapeutic or targeted regimens. Reciprocally, oncogenic MYC imparts a series of molecular and metabolic dependencies to cells, thus giving rise to cancer-specific vulnerabilities that may be exploited to obtain synthetic-lethal interactions with novel anticancer drugs. Here we will review the current knowledge on the links between MYC and therapeutic responses, and will discuss possible strategies to overcome resistance through new, targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Donati
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO) – IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Bruno Amati
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO) – IRCCSMilanItaly
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Chen X, Zhang H, Xiao B. C9orf16 represents the aberrant genetic programs and drives the progression of PDAC. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1102. [PMID: 36307773 PMCID: PMC9615161 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10202-5] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), constituting 90% of pancreatic cancers, is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Lack of early detection of PDAC contributes to its poor prognosis as patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage of disease. This is mostly due to the lack of promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets and corresponding drugs.
Methods and results
Here, by bioinformatic analysis of single cell RNA-sequencing data on normal pancreas tissues, primary and metastatic PDAC tumors, we identified a promising PDAC biomarker, C9orf16. The expression of C9orf16, rarely detectable in normal epithelial cells, was upregulated in primary PDAC cancer cells and was further elevated in metastatic PDAC cancer cells. Gain or loss of function of C9orf16 demonstrated its critical functions in regulating the cell proliferation, invasion and chemotherapy resistance of cancer cells. Pathway analysis and functional studies identified MYC signaling pathways as the most activated pathways in regulating C9orf16 expression and in mediating the development and progression of PDAC.
Conclusions
These data suggested a crucial gene regulation system, MYC-C9orf16, which is actively involved in PDAC development and progression, and targeting this system should be a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for PDAC.
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Chen P, Yang W, Hong T, Miyazaki T, Dirisala A, Kataoka K, Cabral H. Nanocarriers escaping from hyperacidified endo/lysosomes in cancer cells allow tumor-targeted intracellular delivery of antibodies to therapeutically inhibit c-MYC. Biomaterials 2022; 288:121748. [PMID: 36038419 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular protein delivery is a powerful strategy for developing innovative therapeutics. Nanocarriers present great potential to deliver proteins inside cells by promoting cellular uptake and overcoming entrapment and degradation in acidic endo/lysosomal compartments. Thus, because cytosolic access is essential for eliciting the function of proteins, significant efforts have been dedicated to engineering nanocarriers with maximal endosomal escape regardless of the cell type. On the other hand, controlling the ability of nanocarriers to escape from the endo/lysosomal compartments of particular cells may offer the opportunity for enhancing delivery precision. To test this hypothesis, we developed pH-sensitive polymeric nanocarriers with adjustable endosomal escape potency for selectively reaching the cytosol of defined cancer cells with dysregulated endo/lysosomal acidification. By loading antibodies against nuclear pore complex in the nanocarriers, we demonstrated the selective delivery into the cytosol and subsequent nucleus targeting of cancer cells rather than non-cancerous cells both in vitro and in vivo. Systemically injected nanocarriers loading anti-c-MYC antibodies suppressed c-MYC in solid tumors and inhibit tumor growth without side effects, confirming the therapeutic potential of our approach. These results indicated that regulating the ability of nanocarriers to escape from endo/lysosomal compartments in particular cells is a practical approach for gaining delivery specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwen Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Wenqian Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Taehun Hong
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takuya Miyazaki
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, 705-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina City, Kanagawa, 243-0435, Japan
| | - Anjaneyulu Dirisala
- Innovation Center of Nanomedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-0821, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kataoka
- Innovation Center of Nanomedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-0821, Japan.
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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A Drug Repurposing Screen Identifies Fludarabine Phosphate as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for N-MYC Overexpressing Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancers. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142246. [PMID: 35883689 PMCID: PMC9317991 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) represents a highly aggressive form of prostate tumors. NEPC results from trans-differentiated castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with increasing evidence indicating that the incidence of NEPC often results from the adaptive response to androgen deprivation therapy. Recent studies have shown that a subset of NEPC exhibits overexpression of the MYCN oncogene along with the loss of tumor suppressing TP53 and RB1 activities. N-MYC is structurally disordered with no binding pockets available on its surface and so far, no clinically approved drug is available. We adopted a drug-repurposing strategy, screened ~1800 drug molecules, and identified fludarabine phosphate to preferentially inhibit the proliferation of N-MYC overexpressing NEPC cells by inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). We also show that fludarabine phosphate affects N-MYC protein levels and N-MYC transcriptional targets in NEPC cells. Moreover, enhanced ROS production destabilizes N-MYC protein by inhibiting AKT signaling and is responsible for the reduced survival of NEPC cells and tumors. Our results indicate that increasing ROS production by the administration of fludarabine phosphate may represent an effective treatment option for patients with N-MYC overexpressing NEPC tumors.
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Holmes AG, Parker JB, Sagar V, Truica MI, Soni PN, Han H, Schiltz GE, Abdulkadir SA, Chakravarti D. A MYC inhibitor selectively alters the MYC and MAX cistromes and modulates the epigenomic landscape to regulate target gene expression. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabh3635. [PMID: 35476451 PMCID: PMC9045724 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abh3635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
MYC regulates multiple gene programs, raising questions about the potential selectivity and downstream transcriptional consequences of MYC inhibitors as cancer therapeutics. Here, we examined the effect of a small-molecule MYC inhibitor, MYCi975, on the MYC/MAX cistromes, epigenome, transcriptome, and tumorigenesis. Integrating these data revealed three major classes of MYCi975-modulated gene targets: type 1 (down-regulated), type 2 (up-regulated), and type 3 (unaltered). While cell cycle and signal transduction pathways were heavily targeted by MYCi, RNA biogenesis and core transcriptional pathway genes were spared. MYCi975 altered chromatin binding of MYC and the MYC network family proteins, and chromatin accessibility and H3K27 acetylation alterations revealed MYCi975 suppression of MYC-regulated lineage factors AR/ARv7, FOXA1, and FOXM1. Consequently, MYCi975 synergistically sensitized resistant prostate cancer cells to enzalutamide and estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells to 4-hydroxytamoxifen. Our results demonstrate that MYCi975 selectively inhibits MYC target gene expression and provide a mechanistic rationale for potential combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin G. Holmes
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - J. Brandon Parker
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Vinay Sagar
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Mihai I. Truica
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Pritin N. Soni
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Huiying Han
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Gary E. Schiltz
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Sarki A. Abdulkadir
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Singh A, Kumar P, Sarvagalla S, Bharadwaj T, Nayak N, Coumar MS, Giri R, Garg N. Functional inhibition of c-Myc using novel inhibitors identified through “hot spot” targeting. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101898. [PMID: 35378126 PMCID: PMC9065629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein–protein interactions drive various biological processes in healthy as well as disease states. The transcription factor c-Myc plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, and its deregulated expression is linked to various human cancers; therefore, it can be considered a viable target for cancer therapeutics. However, the structural heterogeneity of c-Myc due to its disordered nature poses a major challenge to drug discovery. In the present study, we used an in silico alanine scanning mutagenesis approach to identify “hot spot” residues within the c-Myc/Myc-associated factor X interface, which is highly disordered and has not yet been systematically analyzed for potential small molecule binding sites. We then used the information gained from this analysis to screen potential inhibitors using a conformation ensemble approach. The fluorescence-based biophysical experiments showed that the identified hit molecules displayed noncovalent interactions with these hot spot residues, and further cell-based experiments showed substantial in vitro potency against diverse c-Myc-expressing cancer/stem cells by deregulating c-Myc activity. These biophysical and computational studies demonstrated stable binding of the hit compounds with the disordered c-Myc protein. Collectively, our data indicated effective drug targeting of the disordered c-Myc protein via the determination of hot spot residues in the c-Myc/Myc-associated factor X heterodimer.
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Marchesi I, Fais M, Fiorentino FP, Bordoni V, Sanna L, Zoroddu S, Bagella L. Bromodomain Inhibitor JQ1 Provides Novel Insights and Perspectives in Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073581. [PMID: 35408939 PMCID: PMC8998669 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common type of pediatric soft tissue sarcoma. It is classified into two main subtypes: embryonal (eRMS) and alveolar (aRMS). MYC family proteins are frequently highly expressed in RMS tumors, with the highest levels correlated with poor prognosis. A pharmacological approach to inhibit MYC in cancer cells is represented by Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal motif (BET) protein inhibitors. In this paper, we evaluated the effects of BET inhibitor (+)-JQ1 (JQ1) on the viability of aRMS and eRMS cells. Interestingly, we found that the drug sensitivity of RMS cell lines to JQ1 was directly proportional to the expression of MYC. JQ1 induces G1 arrest in cells with the highest steady-state levels of MYC, whereas apoptosis is associated with MYC downregulation. These findings suggest BET inhibition as an effective strategy for the treatment of RMS alone or in combination with other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Marchesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
- Kitos Biotech Srls, Tramariglio, 07041 Alghero, Italy
| | - Milena Fais
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
| | - Francesco Paolo Fiorentino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
- Kitos Biotech Srls, Tramariglio, 07041 Alghero, Italy
| | - Valentina Bordoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
| | - Luca Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
| | - Stefano Zoroddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
| | - Luigi Bagella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (I.M.); (M.F.); (F.P.F.); (V.B.); (L.S.); (S.Z.)
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Centre for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
- Correspondence:
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Jiang T, Yang J, Yang H, Chen W, Ji K, Xu Y, Yu L. SLC35B4 Stabilizes c-MYC Protein by O-GlcNAcylation in HCC. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:851089. [PMID: 35308201 PMCID: PMC8924407 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.851089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
UDP-GlcNAc is a sugar substrate necessary for the O-GlcNAcylation of proteins. SLC35B4 is one of the nucleotide sugar transporters that transport UDP-GlcNAc and UDP-xylose into the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus for glycosylation. The roles of SLC35B4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumorigenesis remain unknown. We find that the expression levels of SLC35B4 are higher in HCC tissues than adjacent non-tumor tissues. SLC35B4 is important for the proliferation and tumorigenesis of HCC cells. Mechanistically, SLC35B4 is important for the O-GlcNAc modification of c-Myc and thus the stabilization of c-Myc, which is required for HCC tumorigenesis. Therefore, SLC35B4 is a promising therapeutic target for treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghong Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huohong Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wancheng Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaiyuan Ji
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Key Lab of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lili Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Zeng L, Yuan C, Shu J, Qian J, Wu Q, Chen Y, Wu R, Ouyang X, Li Y, Mei W. Arene Ru(II) Complexes with Difluorinated Ligands Act as Potential Inducers of S-Phase Arrest via the Stabilization of c-myc G-Quadruplex DNA. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27061897. [PMID: 35335261 PMCID: PMC8954944 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27061897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, a series of half-sandwich arene Ru(II) complexes with difluorinated ligands [Ru(η6-arene)(L)Cl] (L1 = 2-(2,3-difluorophenyl)imidazole[4,5f][1,10]-phenanthroline; L2 = 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)imidazole[4,5f][1,10]-phenanthroline; arene = benzene, toluene, and p-cymene) were synthesized and characterized. Molecular docking analysis showed that these complexes bind to c-myc G-quadruplex DNA through either groove binding or π–π stacking, and the relative difluorinated site in the main ligand plays a role in regulating the binding mode. The binding behavior of these complexes with c-myc G-quadruplex DNA was evaluated using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence intercalator displacement assay, fluorescence resonance energy transfer melting assay, and polymerase chain reaction. The comprehensive analysis indicated that complex 1 exhibited a better affinity and stability in relation to c-myc G-quadruplex DNA with a DC50 of 6.6 μM and ΔTm values of 13.09 °C, than other molecules. Further activity evaluation results displayed that this class of complexes can also inhibit the growth of various tumor cells, especially complexes 3 and 6, which exhibited a better inhibitory effect against human U87 glioblastoma cells (51.61 and 23.75 μM) than other complexes, even superior to cisplatin (32.59 μM). Owing to a befitting lipophilicity associated with the high intake of drugs by tumor cells, complexes 3 and 6 had favorable lipid-water partition coefficients of −0.6615 and −0.8077, respectively. Moreover, it was found that complex 6 suppressed the proliferation of U87 cells mainly through an induced obvious S phase arrest and slight apoptosis, which may have resulted from the stabilization of c-myc G-quadruplex DNA to block the transcription and expression of c-myc. In brief, these types of arene Ru(II) complexes with difluorinated ligands can be developed as potential inducers of S-phase arrest and apoptosis through the binding and stabilization of c-myc G-quadruplex DNA, and could be used in clinical applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China; (L.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chanling Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
| | - Jing Shu
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
| | - Jiayi Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
| | - Qiong Wu
- Guangdong Province Engineering and Technology Centre for Molecular Probe and Biomedicine Imaging, Guangzhou 510006, China;
| | - Yanhua Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
| | - Ruzhen Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
| | - Xiaoming Ouyang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
- Correspondence: (X.O.); (W.M.)
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Pathology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China; (L.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wenjie Mei
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (C.Y.); (J.S.); (J.Q.); (Y.C.); (R.W.)
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
- Correspondence: (X.O.); (W.M.)
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Molecular landscape of c-Myc signaling in prostate cancer: A roadmap to clinical translation. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 233:153851. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Ton AT, Foo J, Singh K, Lee J, Kalyta A, Morin H, Perez C, Ban F, Leblanc E, Lallous N, Cherkasov A. Development of VPC-70619, a Small-Molecule N-Myc Inhibitor as a Potential Therapy for Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052588. [PMID: 35269731 PMCID: PMC8910697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Myc family of transcription factors are involved in the development and progression of numerous cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). Under the pressure of androgen receptor (AR)-directed therapies resistance can occur, leading to the lethal form of PCa known as neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), characterized among other features by N-Myc overexpression. There are no clinically approved treatments for NEPC, translating into poor patient prognosis and survival. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop novel therapeutic avenues to treat NEPC patients. In this study, we investigate the N-Myc-Max DNA binding domain (DBD) as a potential target for small molecule inhibitors and utilize computer-aided drug design (CADD) approaches to discover prospective hits. Through further exploration and optimization, a compound, VPC-70619, was identified with notable anti-N-Myc potency and strong antiproliferative activity against numerous N-Myc expressing cell lines, including those representing NEPC.
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Gu X, Zhuang A, Yu J, Chai P, Jia R, Ruan J. Phase separation drives tumor pathogenesis and evolution: all roads lead to Rome. Oncogene 2022; 41:1527-1535. [PMID: 35132182 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02195-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cells coordinate numerous biochemical reactions in space and time, depending on the subdivision of the intracellular space into functional compartments. Compelling evidence has demonstrated that phase separation induces the formation of membrane-less compartments to partition intracellular substances in a strictly regulated manner and participates in various biological processes. Based on the strong association of cancer with the dysregulation of intracellular physiological processes and the occurrence of phase separation in cancer-associated condensates, phase separation undoubtedly plays a significant role in tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize the drivers and functions of phase separation, elaborate on the roles of phase separation in tumor pathogenesis and evolution, and propose substantial research and therapeutic prospects for phase separation in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Ai Zhuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, PR China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, PR China.
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Cellular experiments to study the inhibition of c-Myc/MAX heterodimerization. Methods Enzymol 2022; 675:193-205. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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The MYC oncogene - the grand orchestrator of cancer growth and immune evasion. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022; 19:23-36. [PMID: 34508258 PMCID: PMC9083341 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-021-00549-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 144.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The MYC proto-oncogenes encode a family of transcription factors that are among the most commonly activated oncoproteins in human neoplasias. Indeed, MYC aberrations or upregulation of MYC-related pathways by alternate mechanisms occur in the vast majority of cancers. MYC proteins are master regulators of cellular programmes. Thus, cancers with MYC activation elicit many of the hallmarks of cancer required for autonomous neoplastic growth. In preclinical models, MYC inactivation can result in sustained tumour regression, a phenomenon that has been attributed to oncogene addiction. Many therapeutic agents that directly target MYC are under development; however, to date, their clinical efficacy remains to be demonstrated. In the past few years, studies have demonstrated that MYC signalling can enable tumour cells to dysregulate their microenvironment and evade the host immune response. Herein, we discuss how MYC pathways not only dictate cancer cell pathophysiology but also suppress the host immune response against that cancer. We also propose that therapies targeting the MYC pathway will be key to reversing cancerous growth and restoring antitumour immune responses in patients with MYC-driven cancers.
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Llombart V, Mansour MR. Therapeutic targeting of "undruggable" MYC. EBioMedicine 2022; 75:103756. [PMID: 34942444 PMCID: PMC8713111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
c-MYC controls global gene expression and regulates cell proliferation, cell differentiation, cell cycle, metabolism and apoptosis. According to some estimates, MYC is dysregulated in ≈70% of human cancers and strong evidence implicates aberrantly expressed MYC in both tumor initiation and maintenance. In vivo studies show that MYC inhibition elicits a prominent anti-proliferative effect and sustained tumor regression while any alteration on healthy tissue remains reversible. This opens an exploitable window for treatment that makes MYC one of the most appealing therapeutic targets for cancer drug development. This review describes the main functional and structural features of the protein structure of MYC and provides a general overview of the most relevant or recently identified interactors that modulate MYC oncogenic activity. This review also summarizes the different approaches aiming to abrogate MYC oncogenic function, with a particular focus on the prototype inhibitors designed for the direct and indirect targeting of MYC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Llombart
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Department of Haematology, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Marc R Mansour
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Department of Haematology, London WC1E 6DD, UK; UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Developmental Biology and Cancer, London, UK.
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c-Myc-activated intronic miR-210 and lncRNA MIR210HG synergistically promote the metastasis of gastric cancer. Cancer Lett 2021; 526:322-334. [PMID: 34767926 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between microRNA (miRNA) and hosting long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) remains unclear. Here, the expression levels of microRNA-210 (miR-210) and hosting lncRNA MIR210HG are significantly increased and positively correlated in gastric cancer (GC). Gain- and loss-of-function studies demonstrate that miR-210 and MIR210HG synergistically promote the migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro. Furthermore, GC sublines simultaneously expressing miR-210 and MIR210HG display synergistic promotion of lung metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, MIR210HG interacts with DExH-box helicase 9 (DHX9) to increase DHX9/c-Jun complex's occupancy on the promoter of matrix metallopeptidases (MMPs), and thus promotes migration and invasion of GC cells. Additionally, miR-210 directly suppresses the expression of dopamine receptor D5 (DRD5), serine/threonine kinase 24 (STK24) and MAX network transcriptional repressor (MNT), resulting in enhanced migration and invasion. Finally, MYC proto-oncogene (c-Myc) transactivates miR-210 and MIR210HG. Overexpression of miR-210 or/and MIR210HG can rescue the inhibitory effect on the migration and invasion by silencing c-Myc. Moreover, c-Myc inhibitor significantly decreases lung metastasis of GC in vivo. Collectively, our findings identify a novel mechanism, by which c-Myc-activated miR-210 and MIR210HG synergistically promote the metastasis of GC.
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Zhang J, Yang P, Liu D, Gao M, Wang J, Yu T, Zhang X, Liu Y. Inhibiting Hyper-O-GlcNAcylation of c-Myc accelerate diabetic wound healing by alleviating keratinocyte dysfunction. BURNS & TRAUMA 2021; 9:tkab031. [PMID: 34646892 PMCID: PMC8499626 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkab031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetic foot ulcers characterized by delayed healing are one of the main complications of diabetes. Epidermal keratinocyte dysfunction has been found to play a pivotal role in the poor healing ability of diabetic wounds. In this study, we aimed to explore the relationship between c-Myc and its O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) glycosylation (O-GlcNAcylation) modification and keratinocyte dysfunction in diabetic wounds. Methods Clinical wound samples were collected and a full-thickness skin defect wound model of diabetic rats was established. Re-epithelialization of wounds was observed by H&E staining and expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, transglutaminase 1, loricrin, c-Myc and O-GlcNAc were measured by immunohistochemistry. The functional changes of proliferation, migration and differentiation of human immortalized epidermal cells (HaCaT) cells after overexpression or knockdown of c-Myc were observed. O-GlcNAcylation of c-Myc was confirmed using immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assay. Stability of the c-Myc protein was measured using cycloheximide. Wound healing was observed after topical application of compounds that inhibited c-Myc or O-GlcNAc on diabetic wounds. Results Keratinocytes at the diabetic wound margin were characterized by active proliferation and division, slow migration and poor differentiation. Similar phenomena were observed in HaCaT cells cultured in 30 mM glucose and keratinocytes at the wound margin of the diabetic rats. The expression of c-Myc was increased in keratinocytes at the wound margin of diabetic rats, patients, and in HaCaT cells cultured with 30 mM glucose. Increased expression of c-Myc promoted the proliferation while inhibiting the migration and differentiation of the HaCaT cells, and inhibition of c-Myc promoted diabetic wound healing. Increased O-GlcNAcylation of c-Myc with 30 mM glucose stabilized the c-Myc proteins. Inhibition of O-GlcNAc ameliorated keratinocyte dysfunction and promoted diabetic wound healing. Conclusions Increased expression of c-Myc promoted abnormal proliferation and inhibited migration and differentiation of keratinocytes at the diabetic wound margin. Increased O-GlcNAcylation of c-Myc with 30 mM glucose stabilized the c-Myc proteins. Inhibition of c-Myc or O-GlcNAc alleviated delayed diabetic wound healing. These findings make c-Myc and O-GlcNAc potential therapeutic targets for diabetic wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Peilang Yang
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Min Gao
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jizhuang Wang
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Tianyi Yu
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiong Zhang
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Burn, Ruijin Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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Luminescence complementation technology for the identification of MYC:TRRAP inhibitors. Oncotarget 2021; 12:2147-2157. [PMID: 34676047 PMCID: PMC8522838 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanism-based targeted therapies have exhibited remarkable success in treating otherwise untreatable or unresectable cancers. Novel targeted therapies that correct dysregulated transcriptional programs in cancer are an unmet medical need. The transcription factor MYC is the most frequently amplified gene in human cancer and is overexpressed because of mutations in an array of oncogenic signaling pathways. The fact that many cancer cells cannot survive without MYC – a phenomenon termed “MYC addiction” – provides a compelling case for the development of MYC-specific targeted therapies. We propose a new strategy to inhibit MYC function by disrupting its essential interaction with TRRAP using small molecules. To achieve our goal, we developed a platform using luminescence complementation for identifying small molecules as inhibitors of the MYC:TRRAP interaction. Here we present validation of this assay by measuring the disruption of TRRAP binding caused by substitutions to the invariant and essential MYC homology 2 region of MYC.
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Xie Y, Zhang W, Guo L, Kril LM, Begley KL, Sviripa VM, Chen X, Liu X, Lee EY, He D, Wang C, Gao T, Liu X, Evers BM, Watt DS, Liu C. Potent Synergistic Effect on C-Myc-Driven Colorectal Cancers Using a Novel Indole-Substituted Quinoline with a Plk1 Inhibitor. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1893-1903. [PMID: 34376582 PMCID: PMC8492540 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-1017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Developing effective treatments for colorectal cancers through combinations of small-molecule approaches and immunotherapies present intriguing possibilities for managing these otherwise intractable cancers. During a broad-based, screening effort against multiple colorectal cancer cell lines, we identified indole-substituted quinolines (ISQ), such as N7,N7 -dimethyl-3-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)quinoline-2,7-diamine (ISQ-1), as potent in vitro inhibitors of several cancer cell lines. We found that ISQ-1 inhibited Wnt signaling, a main driver in the pathway governing colorectal cancer development, and ISQ-1 also activated adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK), a cellular energy-homeostasis master regulator. We explored the effect of ISQs on cell metabolism. Seahorse assays measuring oxygen consumption rate (OCR) indicated that ISQ-1 inhibited complex I (i.e., NADH ubiquinone oxidoreductase) in the mitochondrial, electron transport chain (ETC). In addition, ISQ-1 treatment showed remarkable synergistic depletion of oncogenic c-Myc protein level in vitro and induced strong tumor remission in vivo when administered together with BI2536, a polo-like kinase-1 (Plk1) inhibitor. These studies point toward the potential value of dual drug therapies targeting the ETC and Plk-1 for the treatment of c-Myc-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqi Xie
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Lichao Guo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Center for Drug Innovation and Discovery, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Liliia M Kril
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Kristin L Begley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Vitaliy M Sviripa
- Center for Drug Innovation and Discovery, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
- Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Center for Drug Innovation and Discovery, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xifu Liu
- Center for Drug Innovation and Discovery, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Eun Y Lee
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Daheng He
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Chi Wang
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Tianyan Gao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Xiaoqi Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - B Mark Evers
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - David S Watt
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky.
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Center for Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Chunming Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky.
- Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Taillandier D. [Metabolic pathways controlled by E3 ligases: an opportunity for therapeutic targeting]. Biol Aujourdhui 2021; 215:45-57. [PMID: 34397374 DOI: 10.1051/jbio/2021006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery, the Ubiquitin Proteasome System (UPS) has been recognized for its major role in controlling most of the cell's metabolic pathways. In addition to its essential role in the degradation of proteins, it is also involved in the addressing, signaling or repair of DNA, which makes it a key player in cellular homeostasis. Although other control systems exist in the cell, the UPS is often referred to as the conductor. In view of its importance, any dysregulation of the UPS leads to more or less severe disorders for the cell and therefore the body, which accounts for UPS implication in many pathologies (cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, etc.). UPS is made up of more than 1000 different proteins, the combinations of which allow the fine targeting of virtually all proteins in the body. UPS uses an enzymatic cascade (E1, 2 members; E2 > 35; E3 > 800) which allows the transfer of ubiquitin, a small protein of 8.5 kDa onto the protein to be targeted either for its degradation or to modify its activity. This ubiquitinylation signal is reversible and many deubiquitinylases (DUB, ∼ 80 isoforms) also have an important role. E3 enzymes are the most numerous and their function is to recognize the target protein, which makes them important players in the specific action of UPS. The very nature of E3 and the complexity of their interactions with different partners offer a very broad field of investigation and therefore significant potential for the development of therapeutic approaches. Without being exhaustive, this review illustrates the different strategies that have already been implemented to fight against different pathologies (excluding bacterial or viral infections).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Taillandier
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, UNH, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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