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Banerjee A, Dass D, Dhotre K, Wakchoure P, More A, Rana S, Khan AA, Mukherjee A. Combinatorial Effects of miRNAs in HSV-2 Infection of Macrophages: An In Silico and In Vitro Integration Approach. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1488. [PMID: 37766164 PMCID: PMC10537408 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11091488] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The rising issues of herpes simplex virus (HSV)-2 drug ramifications have encouraged the researchers to look for new and alternative approaches that pose minimum adversities in the host while efficiently reducing the HSV-2 infection. Although microRNAs (miRNAs), as unorthodox approaches, are gaining popularity due to eliciting highly reduced immunogenic reactions, their implications in HSV-2 research have been rarely explored. In this study, a pool of cellular miRNAs with significance in HSV-2-induced inflammatory and immune responses have been identified. Computationally recognizing the host targets of these miRNAs through network biology and machine learning, in vitro validation has been addressed along with the identification of their regulation in the HSV-2 infection. To signify the role of these identified miRNAs, they have been individually ectopically expressed in macrophages. The ectopic expression of the individual miRNAs was able to suppress HSV-2 viral gene expression. Taking a step forward, this study also highlights the Box-Behnken design-based combinatorial effect of ectopically expressed miRNAs on maximum suppression of HSV-2 infectivity. Therefore, the concentrations of each of the miRNAs optimized in a combination, predicted through expert systems biology tools were validated in vitro to not only recover the target expressions but also inhibit the HSV-2 infection in the macrophages. Overall, the study offers miRNAs as intriguing alternatives to commercially available medications against HSV-2. Moreover, the study illuminates the prophylactic potentiality of the miRNAs, which is significant since there are currently no vaccines available for HSV-2. Moving forward, the miRNAs are employed in an innovative strategy that incorporates intricate biological system models and in vitro confirmation methods to deliver a prospective combinatorial miRNA therapeutic against HSV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwesha Banerjee
- Division of Virology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India; (A.B.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Debashree Dass
- Division of Virology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India; (A.B.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Kishore Dhotre
- Division of Virology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India; (A.B.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Pooja Wakchoure
- Division of Microbiology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India;
| | - Ashwini More
- Division of Virology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India; (A.B.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Santanu Rana
- Department of Zoology, RPMC-University of Calcutta, Uttarpara 712258, WB, India;
| | - Abdul A. Khan
- Division of Microbiology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India;
| | - Anupam Mukherjee
- Division of Virology, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune 411026, MH, India; (A.B.); (D.D.); (K.D.); (A.M.)
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Pálfy G, Menyhárd DK, Ákontz‐Kiss H, Vida I, Batta G, Tőke O, Perczel A. The Importance of Mg 2+ -Free State in Nucleotide Exchange of Oncogenic K-Ras Mutants. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201449. [PMID: 35781716 PMCID: PMC9804424 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
For efficient targeting of oncogenic K-Ras interaction sites, a mechanistic picture of the Ras-cycle is necessary. Herein, we used NMR relaxation techniques and molecular dynamics simulations to decipher the role of slow dynamics in wild-type and three oncogenic P-loop mutants of K-Ras. Our measurements reveal a dominant two-state conformational exchange on the ms timescale in both GDP- and GTP-bound K-Ras. The identified low-populated higher energy state in GDP-loaded K-Ras has a conformation reminiscent of a nucleotide-bound/Mg2+ -free state characterized by shortened β2/β3-strands and a partially released switch-I region preparing K-Ras for the interaction with the incoming nucleotide exchange factor and subsequent reactivation. By providing insight into mutation-specific differences in K-Ras structural dynamics, our systematic analysis improves our understanding of prolonged K-Ras signaling and may aid the development of allosteric inhibitors targeting nucleotide exchange in K-Ras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Pálfy
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Dóra K. Menyhárd
- MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Hanna Ákontz‐Kiss
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,Hevesy György PhD School of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - István Vida
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,Hevesy György PhD School of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
| | - Gyula Batta
- Structural Biology Research GroupDepartment of Organic ChemistryUniversity of Debrecen1 Egyetem térDebrecen4032Hungary
| | - Orsolya Tőke
- Laboratory for NMR SpectroscopyResearch Centre for Natural Sciences (RCNS)2 Magyar tudósok körútjaBudapest1117Hungary
| | - András Perczel
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and BiologyInstitute of ChemistryEötvös Loránd University1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary,MTA-ELTE Protein Modeling Research GroupEötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH)1/a Pázmány Péter stny.Budapest1117Hungary
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Gong RH, Chen M, Huang C, Wong HLX, Kwan HY, Bian Z. Combination of artesunate and WNT974 induces KRAS protein degradation by upregulating E3 ligase ANACP2 and β-TrCP in the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:34. [PMID: 35305671 PMCID: PMC8934478 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00834-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background KRAS mutation is one of the dominant gene mutations in colorectal cancer (CRC). Up to present, targeting KRAS for CRC treatment remains a clinical challenge. WNT974 (LGK974) is a porcupine inhibitor that interferes Wnt signaling pathway. Artesunate (ART) is a water-soluble semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin. Methods The synergistic effect of ART and WNT974 combination in reducing CRC cell viability was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. RT-PCR was utilized for the mRNA levels of KRAS, CUL7, ANAPC2, UBE2M, RNF123, SYVN1, or β-TrCP. Western blot assay was utilized for the protein levels of NRAS, HRAS, KRAS, ANAPC2, β-TrCP, GSK-3β, p-Akt (Ser473), t-Akt, p-PI3K (Tyr458), t-PI3K, p-mTOR (Ser2448), t-mTOR. Xenograft mouse model assay was performed for the anti-CRC effect of combination of ART and WNT974 in vivo. IHC assay was utilized for the levels of KRAS, β-TrCP, GSK-3β or ANAPC2 in tumor tissues. Results Our study shows that the combination of WNT974 and ART exhibits synergistic effect in reducing CRC growth. The combination treatment significantly reduces KRAS protein level and activity in CRC cells. Interestingly, the combination treatment increases E3 ligases ANAPC2 expression. Our data show that overexpression of ANAPC2 significantly reduces KRAS protein levels, which is reversed by MG132. Knockdown of ANAPC2 in CRC abolishes the combination treatment-reduce KRAS expression. Besides, the treatment also increases the expressions of GSK-3β and E3 ligase β-TrCP that is known to degrade GSK-3β-phosphorylated KRAS protein. Knockdown of β-TrCP- and inhibition of GSK-3β abolish the combination treatment-induce KRAS ubiquitination and reduction in expression. Last but not least, combination treatment suppresses PI3K/Akt/m-TOR signaling pathway. Conclusions Our data clearly show that the combination treatment significantly enhances KRAS protein degradation via the ubiquitination ubiquitin–proteasome pathway, which is also demonstrated in xenograft mouse model. The study provides strong scientific evidence for the development of the combination of WNT974 and ART as KRAS-targeting therapeutics for CRC treatment. Video Abstract
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00834-2.
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Kwan AK, Piazza GA, Keeton AB, Leite CA. The path to the clinic: a comprehensive review on direct KRASG12C inhibitors. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:27. [PMID: 35045886 PMCID: PMC8767686 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe RAS oncogene is both the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancer and the first confirmed human oncogene to be discovered in 1982. After decades of research, in 2013, the Shokat lab achieved a seminal breakthrough by showing that the activated KRAS isozyme caused by the G12C mutation in the KRAS gene can be directly inhibited via a newly unearthed switch II pocket. Building upon this groundbreaking discovery, sotorasib (AMG510) obtained approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2021 to become the first therapy to directly target the KRAS oncoprotein in any KRAS-mutant cancers, particularly those harboring the KRASG12C mutation. Adagrasib (MRTX849) and other direct KRASG12C inhibitors are currently being investigated in multiple clinical trials. In this review, we delve into the path leading to the development of this novel KRAS inhibitor, starting with the discovery, structure, and function of the RAS family of oncoproteins. We then examine the clinical relevance of KRAS, especially the KRASG12C mutation in human cancer, by providing an in-depth analysis of its cancer epidemiology. Finally, we review the preclinical evidence that supported the initial development of the direct KRASG12C inhibitors and summarize the ongoing clinical trials of all direct KRASG12C inhibitors.
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Fan G, Lou L, Song Z, Zhang X, Xiong XF. Targeting mutated GTPase KRAS in tumor therapies. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 226:113816. [PMID: 34520956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Kirsten rat sarcoma virus oncogene (KRAS) mutation accounts for approximately 85% of RAS-driven cancers, and participates in multiple signaling pathways and mediates cell proliferation, differentiation and metabolism. KRAS has been considered as an "undruggable" target due to the lack of effective direct inhibitors, although high frequency of KRAS mutations have been identified in multiple carcinomas in the past decades. Encouragingly, the KRASG12C inhibitor AMG510 (sotorasib), which has been approved for treating NSCLC and CRC recently, makes directly targeting KRAS the most promising strategy for cancer therapy. To better understand the current state of KRAS inhibitors, this review summarizes the biological functions of KRAS, the structure-activity relationship studies of the small-molecule inhibitors that directly target KRAS, and highlights the therapeutic agents with improved selectivity, bioavailability and physicochemical properties. Furthermore, the combined medication that can enhance efficacy and overcome drug resistance of KRAS covalent inhibitors is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangjin Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Linlin Lou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhendong Song
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Xiaolei Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Xiao-Feng Xiong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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Zhao J, Wang C, Zhang L, Lei A, Wang L, Niu L, Zhan S, Guo J, Cao J, Li L, Zhang H, Zhong T. Genome-Wide Identification of Reference Genes for Reverse-Transcription Quantitative PCR in Goat Rumen. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113137. [PMID: 34827869 PMCID: PMC8614340 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The rumen plays an essential role as a digestive organ and serves as the primary site of energy substrate absorption for the productive ruminants. Understanding gene expression profiles is necessary to explore the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms of rumen development in goats. The selection of suitable reference genes (RGs) was the primary assay before the real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). We identified sixteen genome-wide candidate RGs for normalization of gene expression assessments in goat rumen tissues. We demonstrate that the RGs selected (RPS4X and RPS6) were more stably expressed than the commonly used HKGs (ACTB and GAPDH) in goat rumen tissues, suggesting that the ribosomal protein gene family may be another source for the RG pool. Abstract As the largest chamber of the ruminant stomach, the rumen not only serves as the principal absorptive surface and nutrient transport pathway from the lumen into the animal, but also plays an important short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolic role in addition to protective functions. Accurate characterization of the gene expression profiles of genes of interest is essential to the exploration of the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms of rumen development in goats. Thus, the selection of suitable reference genes (RGs) is an important prerequisite for real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). In the present study, 16 candidate RGs were identified from our previous transcriptome sequencing of caprine rumen tissues. The quantitative expressions of the candidate RGs were measured using the RT-qPCR method, and the expression stability of the RGs was assessed using the geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper programs. GeNorm analysis showed that the M values were less than 0.5 for all the RGs except GAPT4, indicating that they were stably expressed in the rumen tissues throughout development. RPS4X and RPS6 were the two most stable RGs. Furthermore, the expressions of two randomly selected target genes (IGF1 and TOP2A), normalized by the selected most stable RGs (RPS4X and RPS6), were consistent with the results of RNA sequencing, while the use of GAPDH and ACTB as RGs resulted in altered profiles. Overall, RPS4X and RPS6 showed the highest expression stability and the lowest coefficients of variation, and could be used as the optimal reference combination for quantifying gene expression in rumen tissues via RT-qPCR analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhao
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Aiai Lei
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Linjie Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lili Niu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Siyuan Zhan
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jiazhong Guo
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jiaxue Cao
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Li Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Hongping Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Tao Zhong
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
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Coupez D, Hulo P, Touchefeu Y, Denis MG, Bennouna J. KRAS mutations in metastatic colorectal cancer: from a de facto ban on anti-EGFR treatment in the past to a potential biomarker for precision medicine. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1325-1334. [PMID: 34378483 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1967318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The high frequency of RAS mutations, particularly KRAS mutations, in colorectal cancer (CRC) and the ineffectiveness of anti-EGFR antibodies in treating this disease has created a significant unmet medical need, especially for treating patients in the metastatic phase of this disease. There are many different types of RAS mutations, the most frequent being G12V (c.35 G > T (p.G12V)), G12D (c.35 G > A (p.G12D)), and G13D (c.38 G > A (p.G13D)). Here, we provide an overview of RAS mutations in CRC and their therapeutic implications. AREAS COVERED The therapeutic strategies against metastatic CRC with RAS mutations are elaborated according to patient and disease characteristics and integrated into a multiline strategy. The complexity of the molecular structure of RAS and its relationship with the MAPK/ERK pathway partly explain the initial therapeutic failure with MEK or farnesyltransferase inhibitors. Conversely, the development of direct KRAS inhibitors or drugs targeting RAS regulators (e.g. SOS1 and SHP2) has opened new therapeutic fields, requiring the distinction of each KRAS mutation type. EXPERT OPINION In the future, KRAS inhibitors, including SOS1 and SHP2 inhibitors, might be used in combination with other signal transduction inhibitors, such as MEK inhibitors or anti-EGFR antibodies, which block alternative pathways of activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahna Coupez
- Medical Oncology Department, University Hospital of Nantes, France
| | - Pauline Hulo
- Medical Oncology Department, University Hospital of Nantes, France
| | - Yann Touchefeu
- Medical Oncology Department, University Hospital of Nantes, France.,Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, University Hospital of Nantes, France
| | - Marc G Denis
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nantes, Nantes, France
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Meng M, Zhong K, Jiang T, Liu Z, Kwan HY, Su T. The current understanding on the impact of KRAS on colorectal cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111717. [PMID: 34044280 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS (kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene) is a member of the RAS family. KRAS mutations are one of most dominant mutations in colorectal cancer (CRC). The impact of KRAS mutations on the prognosis and survival of CRC patients drives many research studies to explore potential therapeutics or target therapy for the KRAS mutant CRC. This review summarizes the current understanding of the pathological consequences of the KRAS mutations in the development of CRC; and the impact of the mutations on the response and the sensitivity to the current front-line chemotherapy. The current therapeutic strategies for treating KRAS mutant CRC, the difficulties and challenges will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjing Meng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Keying Zhong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Hiu Yee Kwan
- Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Tao Su
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine, Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Rodrigues GOL, Cramer SD, Winer HY, Hixon JA, Li W, Yunes JA, Durum SK. Mutations that collaborate with IL-7Ra signaling pathways to drive ALL. Adv Biol Regul 2021; 80:100788. [PMID: 33578108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2021.100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The IL-7 pathway is required for normal T cell development and survival. In recent years the pathway has been shown to be a major driver of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common cancer in children. Gain-of-function mutations in the alpha chain of the IL-7 receptor found in ALL patients clearly demonstrated that this pathway was a driver. However mutant IL-7R alone was insufficient to transform primary T cell progenitors, indicating that cooperating mutations were required. Here we review evidence for additional oncogenic mutations in the IL-7 pathway. We discuss several oncogenes, loss of tumor suppressor genes and epigenetic effects that can cooperate with mutant IL-7 receptor. These include NRas, HOXA, TLX3, Notch 1, Arf, PHF6, WT1, PRC, PTPN2 and CK2. As new therapeutics targeting the IL-7 pathway are developed, combination with agents directed to cooperating pathways offer hope for novel therapies for ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele O L Rodrigues
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA; Molecular Biology Laboratory, Boldrini Children's Center, Campinas, Brazil; Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Sarah D Cramer
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA; Comparative Biomedical Scientist Training Program, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Hila Y Winer
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Julie A Hixon
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - WenQing Li
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - José Andres Yunes
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Bioagents, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Scott K Durum
- Cytokines and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Frederick, MD, USA.
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Zuberi M, Khan I, O’Bryan JP. Inhibition of RAS: proven and potential vulnerabilities. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 48:1831-1841. [PMID: 32869838 PMCID: PMC7875515 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RAS is a membrane localized small GTPase frequently mutated in human cancer. As such, RAS has been a focal target for developing cancer therapeutics since its discovery nearly four decades ago. However, efforts to directly target RAS have been challenging due to the apparent lack of readily discernable deep pockets for binding small molecule inhibitors leading many to consider RAS as undruggable. An important milestone in direct RAS inhibition was achieved recently with the groundbreaking discovery of covalent inhibitors that target the mutant Cys residue in KRAS(G12C). Surprisingly, these G12C-reactive compounds only target mutant RAS in the GDP-bound state thereby locking it in the inactive conformation and blocking its ability to couple with downstream effector pathways. Building on this success, several groups have developed similar compounds that selectively target KRAS(G12C), with AMG510 and MRTX849 the first to advance to clinical trials. Both have shown early promising results. Though the success with these compounds has reignited the possibility of direct pharmacological inhibition of RAS, these covalent inhibitors are limited to treating KRAS(G12C) tumors which account for <15% of all RAS mutants in human tumors. Thus, there remains an unmet need to identify more broadly efficacious RAS inhibitors. Here, we will discuss the current state of RAS(G12C) inhibitors and the potential for inhibiting additional RAS mutants through targeting RAS dimerization which has emerged as an important step in the allosteric regulation of RAS function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariyam Zuberi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States of America; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29401, United States of America
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States of America; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29401, United States of America
| | - John P. O’Bryan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States of America; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29401, United States of America
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Ou A, Schmidberger JW, Wilson KA, Evans CW, Hargreaves JA, Grigg M, O'Mara ML, Iyer KS, Bond CS, Smith NM. High resolution crystal structure of a KRAS promoter G-quadruplex reveals a dimer with extensive poly-A π-stacking interactions for small-molecule recognition. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:5766-5776. [PMID: 32313953 PMCID: PMC7261167 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant KRAS signaling is a driver of many cancers and yet remains an elusive target for drug therapy. The nuclease hypersensitive element of the KRAS promoter has been reported to form secondary DNA structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s) which may play important roles in regulating KRAS expression, and has spurred interest in structural elucidation studies of the KRAS G-quadruplexes. Here, we report the first high-resolution crystal structure (1.6 Å) of a KRAS G-quadruplex as a 5'-head-to-head dimer with extensive poly-A π-stacking interactions observed across the dimer. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed that the poly-A π-stacking interactions are also maintained in the G4 monomers. Docking and molecular dynamics simulations with two G4 ligands that display high stabilization of the KRAS G4 indicated the poly-A loop was a binding site for these ligands in addition to the 5'-G-tetrad. Given sequence and structural variability in the loop regions provide the opportunity for small-molecule targeting of specific G4s, we envisage this high-resolution crystal structure for the KRAS G-quadruplex will aid in the rational design of ligands to selectively target KRAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Ou
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jason W Schmidberger
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Katie A Wilson
- Research School of Chemistry, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Cameron W Evans
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jessica A Hargreaves
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Melanie Grigg
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Megan L O'Mara
- Research School of Chemistry, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - K Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Charles S Bond
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nicole M Smith
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
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Nollmann FI, Ruess DA. Targeting Mutant KRAS in Pancreatic Cancer: Futile or Promising? Biomedicines 2020; 8:E281. [PMID: 32796566 PMCID: PMC7459579 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most fatal cancers with a dismal prognosis for the patient. This is due to limited diagnostic options for the early detection of the disease as well as its rather aggressive nature. Despite major advances in oncologic research in general, the treatment options in the clinic for PDAC have only undergone minor changes in the last decades. One major treatment advance would be the successful targeting of the oncogenic driver KRASmut. In the past, the indirect targeting of KRAS has been exploited, e. g., via upstream inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinases or via downstream MEK or PI3K inhibition. However, the experience gained from clinical trials and from the clinic itself in the treatment of KRASmut cancer entities has dampened the initial euphoria. Lately, with the development of KRASG12C-specific inhibitors, not only the direct but also the indirect targeting of KRASmut has gained momentum again. Though preclinical studies and preliminary early clinical studies of monotherapies have shown promising results, they have been overshadowed by the swift development of resistances resulting in inconsistent responses in patient cohorts. Currently, several different combination therapies for KRASmut cancer are being explored. If they hold the promise they have made in preclinical studies, they might also be suitable treatment options for patients suffering from PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dietrich Alexander Ruess
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Center of Surgery, Medical Center–University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstrasse 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
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Beyond the Genomic Mutation: Rethinking the Molecular Biomarkers of K-RAS Dependency in Pancreatic Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145023. [PMID: 32708716 PMCID: PMC7404119 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic v-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (K-RAS) plays a key role in the development and maintenance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The targeting of K-RAS would be beneficial to treat tumors whose growth depends on active K-RAS. The analysis of K-RAS genomic mutations is a clinical routine; however, an emerging question is whether the mutational status is able to identify tumors effectively dependent on K-RAS for tailoring targeted therapies. With the emergence of novel K-RAS inhibitors in clinical settings, this question is relevant. Several studies support the notion that the K-RAS mutation is not a sufficient biomarker deciphering the effective dependency of the tumor. Transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles of tumors, while revealing K-RAS signaling complexity and K-RAS-driven molecular pathways crucial for PDAC growth, are opening the opportunity to specifically identify K-RAS-dependent- or K-RAS-independent tumor subtypes by using novel molecular biomarkers. This would help tumor selection aimed at tailoring therapies against K-RAS. In this review, we will present studies about how the K-RAS mutation can also be interpreted in a state of K-RAS dependency, for which it is possible to identify specific K-RAS-driven molecular biomarkers in certain PDAC subtypes, beyond the genomic K-RAS mutational status.
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14
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Ward AB, Keeton AB, Chen X, Mattox TE, Coley AB, Maxuitenko YY, Buchsbaum DJ, Randall TD, Zhou G, Piazza GA. Enhancing anticancer activity of checkpoint immunotherapy by targeting RAS. MedComm (Beijing) 2020; 1:121-128. [PMID: 33073260 PMCID: PMC7567124 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30% of human cancers harbor a gain‐in‐function mutation in the RAS gene, resulting in constitutive activation of the RAS protein to stimulate downstream signaling, including the RAS‐mitogen activated protein kinase pathway that drives cancer cells to proliferate and metastasize. RAS‐driven oncogenesis also promotes immune evasion by increasing the expression of programmed cell death ligand‐1, reducing the expression of major histocompatibility complex molecules that present antigens to T‐lymphocytes and altering the expression of cytokines that promote the differentiation and accumulation of immune suppressive cell types such as myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, regulatory T‐cells, and cancer‐associated fibroblasts. Together, these changes lead to an immune suppressive tumor microenvironment that impedes T‐cell activation and infiltration and promotes the outgrowth and metastasis of tumor cells. As a result, despite the growing success of checkpoint immunotherapy, many patients with RAS‐driven tumors experience resistance to therapy and poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, RAS inhibitors in development have the potential to weaken cancer cell immune evasion and enhance the antitumor immune response to improve survival of patients with RAS‐driven cancers. This review highlights the potential of RAS inhibitors to enhance or broaden the anticancer activity of currently available checkpoint immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio B Ward
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Adam B Keeton
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Xi Chen
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Tyler E Mattox
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Alex B Coley
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Yulia Y Maxuitenko
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Troy D Randall
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Gang Zhou
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Gary A Piazza
- Drug Discovery Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
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