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Zhang F, Zhang H, Zhou S, Plewka J, Wang M, Sun S, Wu C, Yu Q, Zhu M, Awadasseid A, Wu Y, Magiera-Mularz K, Zhang W. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of antitumor activity of 2-arylmethoxy-4-(2-fluoromethyl-biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy) benzylamine derivatives as PD-1/PD-l1 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116683. [PMID: 39032403 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
A series of novel 2-arylmethoxy-4-(2-fluoromethyl-biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy) benzylamine derivatives was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their antitumor effects as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors both in vitro and in vivo. Firstly, the ability of these compounds to block the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint was assessed using the homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay. Two of the compounds can strongly block the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction, with IC50 values of less than 10 nM, notably, compound HD10 exhibited significant clinical potential by inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction with an IC50 value of 3.1 nM. Further microscale thermophoresis (MST) analysis demonstrated that HD10 had strong interaction with PD-L1 protein. Co-crystal structure (2.7 Å) analysis of HD10 in complex with the PD-L1 protein revealed a strong affinity between the compound and the target PD-L1 dimer. This provides a solid theoretical basis for further in vitro and in vivo studies. Next, a typical cell-based experiment demonstrated that HD10 could remarkably prevent the interaction of hPD-1 293 T cells from human recombinant PD-L1 protein, effectively restoring T cell function, and promoting IFN-γ secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, HD10 was effective in suppressing tumor growth (TGI = 57.31 %) in a PD-1/PD-L1 humanized mouse model without obvious toxicity. Flow cytometry, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry data suggested that HD10 inhibits tumor growth by activating the immune system in vivo. Based on these results, it seems likely that HD10 is a promising clinical candidate that should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Department of Pharmacy, Changzhi Medical College, Shanxi, 046012, China
| | - Shijia Zhou
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ming Wang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Shishi Sun
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Caiyun Wu
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Qimeng Yu
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Mengyu Zhu
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China
| | - Annoor Awadasseid
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Moganshan Institute, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313200, China.
| | - Yanling Wu
- Lab of Molecular Immunology, Virus Inspection Department, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China.
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Wen Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing, 313299, China; Zhejiang Jieyuan Med-Tech Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 311113, China.
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2
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Li W, Mei W, Jiang H, Wang J, Li X, Quan L, Diao Y, Ma Y, Fan S, Xie Z, Gong M, Zhu H, Bi D, Zhang F, Ma L, Zhang J, Gao Y, Paschalidis A, Lin H, Liu F, Liu K, Ye M, Zhao Z, Duan Y, Chen Z, Xu Y, Xiao W, Tao S, Zhu L, Li H. Blocking the PD-1 signal transduction by occupying the phosphorylated ITSM recognition site of SHP-2. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2706-2. [PMID: 39235560 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2706-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis with small-molecular inhibitors is a promising approach for immunotherapy. Here, we identify a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, Pygenic Acid A (PA), as a PD-1 signaling inhibitor. PA exerts anti-tumor activity in hPD-1 knock-in C57BL/6 mice and enhances effector functions of T cells to promote immune responses by disrupting the PD-1 signaling transduction. Furthermore, we identify SHP-2 as the direct molecular target of PA for inhibiting the PD-1 signaling transduction. Subsequently, mechanistic studies suggest that PA binds to a new druggable site in the phosphorylated PD-1 ITSM recognition site of SHP-2, inhibiting the recruitment of SHP-2 by PD-1. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that PA has a potential application in cancer immunotherapy and occupying the phosphorylated ITSM recognition site of SHP-2 may serve as an alternative strategy to develop PD-1 signaling inhibitors. In addition, our success in target recognition provides a paradigm of target identification and confirmation for natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Wenyi Mei
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Hewei Jiang
- Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Xiaoli Li
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, School of Pharmacy and School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Lina Quan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yanyan Diao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yanni Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R & A Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Sisi Fan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zhuwei Xie
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Mengdie Gong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Huan Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Dewen Bi
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, School of Pharmacy and School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Lei Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yufeng Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Aris Paschalidis
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Honghuang Lin
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Fangfang Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Mingliang Ye
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R & A Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Zhenjiang Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yajun Duan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yufang Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Weilie Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Provincial Center for Research & Development of Natural Products, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, School of Pharmacy and School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650500, China.
| | - Shengce Tao
- Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Lili Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
| | - Honglin Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
- Innovation Center for AI and Drug Discovery, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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3
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Akbarzadeh S, Coşkun Ö, Günçer B. Studying protein-protein interactions: Latest and most popular approaches. J Struct Biol 2024; 216:108118. [PMID: 39214321 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2024.108118] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PPIs, or protein-protein interactions, are essential for many biological processes. According to the findings, abnormal PPIs have been linked to several diseases, such as cancer and infectious and neurological disorders. Consequently, focusing on PPIs is a path toward disease treatment and a crucial tool for producing novel medications. Many methods exist to investigate PPIs, including low- and high-throughput studies. Since many PPIs have been discovered using in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches, the use of computational methods to predict PPIs has grown due to the expanding scale of PPI data and the intrinsic complexity of interacting mechanisms. Recognizing PPI networks offers a systematic means of predicting protein functions, and pathways that are included. These investigations can help uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms of complex phenotypes and clarify the biological processes related to health and diseases. Therefore, our goal in this study is to provide an overview of the latest and most popular approaches for investigating PPIs. We also overview some important clinical approaches based on the PPIs and how these interactions can be targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sama Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biophysics, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye; Institute of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Özlem Coşkun
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Türkiye
| | - Başak Günçer
- Department of Biophysics, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye.
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4
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Hec-Gałązka A, Tyrcha U, Barczyński J, Bielski P, Mikitiuk M, Gudz GP, Kitel R, Musielak B, Plewka J, Sitar T, Holak TA. Nonsymmetrically Substituted 1,1'-Biphenyl-Based Small Molecule Inhibitors of the PD-1/PD-L1 Interaction. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:828-836. [PMID: 38894909 PMCID: PMC11181486 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic antibodies directed against either programmed cell death-1 protein (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1 have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of various cancers. In contrast with antibodies, small molecules have the potential for increased tissue penetration; better pharmacology; and therefore, improved antitumor activity. A series of nonsymmetric C2 inhibitors were synthesized and evaluated for PD-1/PD-L1 interaction inhibition. These compounds induced PD-L1 dimerization and effectively blocked PD-L1/PD-1 interaction in a homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay with most inhibitors exhibiting IC50 values in the single-digit nM range and below. Their high inhibitory potency was also demonstrated in a cell-based coculture PD-1 signaling assay where 2 exhibited an EC50 inhibitory activity of 21.8 nM, which approached that of the PD-L1 antibody durvalumab (EC50 = 0.3-1.8 nM). Structural insight into how these inhibitors interact with PD-L1 was gained by using NMR and X-ray cocrystal structure studies. These data support further preclinical evaluation of these compounds as antibody alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Hec-Gałązka
- Jagiellonian
University, Doctoral School
of Exact and Natural Sciences, prof. S. Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Urszula Tyrcha
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Jan Barczyński
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Bielski
- Jagiellonian
University, Doctoral School
of Exact and Natural Sciences, prof. S. Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Ganna P. Gudz
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Radosław Kitel
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Sitar
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Tad A. Holak
- Recepton
Sp. z o.o., ul. Trzy
Lipy 3, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland
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5
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Chen L, Zhao X, Liu X, Ouyang Y, Xu C, Shi Y. Development of small molecule drugs targeting immune checkpoints. Cancer Biol Med 2024; 21:j.issn.2095-3941.2024.0034. [PMID: 38727005 PMCID: PMC11131045 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2024.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are used to relieve and refuel anti-tumor immunity by blocking the interaction, transcription, and translation of co-inhibitory immune checkpoints or degrading co-inhibitory immune checkpoints. Thousands of small molecule drugs or biological materials, especially antibody-based ICIs, are actively being studied and antibodies are currently widely used. Limitations, such as anti-tumor efficacy, poor membrane permeability, and unneglected tolerance issues of antibody-based ICIs, remain evident but are thought to be overcome by small molecule drugs. Recent structural studies have broadened the scope of candidate immune checkpoint molecules, as well as innovative chemical inhibitors. By way of comparison, small molecule drug-based ICIs represent superior oral bioavailability and favorable pharmacokinetic features. Several ongoing clinical trials are exploring the synergetic effect of ICIs and other therapeutic strategies based on multiple ICI functions, including immune regulation, anti-angiogenesis, and cell cycle regulation. In this review we summarized the current progression of small molecule ICIs and the mechanism underlying immune checkpoint proteins, which will lay the foundation for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoyi Chen
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Xinchen Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Institute for Breast Health Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yujie Ouyang
- Acupuncture and Massage College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
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6
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Javed SA, Najmi A, Ahsan W, Zoghebi K. Targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 immune checkpoint inhibition for cancer immunotherapy: success and challenges. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1383456. [PMID: 38660299 PMCID: PMC11039846 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The programmed death-1 receptor (PD-1) acts as a T-cell brake, and its interaction with ligand-1 (PD-L-1) interferes with signal transduction of the T-cell receptor. This leads to suppression of T-cell survival, proliferation, and activity in the tumor microenvironment resulting in compromised anticancer immunity. PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction blockade shown remarkable clinical success in various cancer immunotherapies. To date, most PD-1/PD-L-1 blockers approved for clinical use are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs); however, their therapeutic use are limited owing to poor clinical responses in a proportion of patients. mAbs also displayed low tumor penetration, steep production costs, and incidences of immune-related side effects. This strongly indicates the importance of developing novel inhibitors as cancer immunotherapeutic agents. Recently, advancements in the small molecule-based inhibitors (SMIs) that directly block the PD-1/PD-L-1 axis gained attention from the scientific community involved in cancer research. SMIs demonstrated certain advantages over mAbs, including longer half-lives, low cost, greater cell penetration, and possibility of oral administration. Currently, several SMIs are in development pipeline as potential therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. To develop new SMIs, a wide range of structural scaffolds have been explored with excellent outcomes; biphenyl-based scaffolds are most studied. In this review, we analyzed the development of mAbs and SMIs targeting PD-1/PD-L-1 axis for cancer treatment. Altogether, the present review delves into the problems related to mAbs use and a detailed discussion on the development and current status of SMIs. This article may provide a comprehensive guide to medicinal chemists regarding the potential structural scaffolds required for PD-1/PD-L-1 interaction inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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7
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Zhang J, Joshua AM, Li Y, O'Meara CH, Morris MJ, Khachigian LM. Targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and small molecules and peptidomimetics as emerging immunoregulatory agents for melanoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 586:216633. [PMID: 38281663 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216633] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary cutaneous melanoma is the most lethal of all skin neoplasms and its incidence is increasing. Clinical management of advanced melanoma in the last decade has been revolutionised by the availability of immunotherapies and targeted therapies, used alone and in combination. This article summarizes advances in the treatment of late-stage melanoma including use of protein kinase inhibitors, antibody-based immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive immunotherapy, vaccines and more recently, small molecules and peptidomimetics as emerging immunoregulatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Zhang
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony M Joshua
- Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent's Hospital, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yue Li
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Connor H O'Meara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, ANU Medical School and Canberra Health Services, Australian National University, Acton, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Margaret J Morris
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Levon M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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8
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Li S, Wang G, Ren Y, Liu X, Wang Y, Li J, Liu H, Yang J, Xing J, Zhang Y, He C, Xu S, Hou X, Li N. Expression and function of VISTA on myeloid cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116100. [PMID: 38428824 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116100] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
V-domain containing Ig Suppressor of T cell Activation (VISTA) is predominantly expressed on myeloid cells and functions as a ligand/receptor/soluble molecule. In inflammatory responses and immune responses, VISTA regulates multiple functions of myeloid cells, such as chemotaxis, phagocytosis, T cell activation. Since inflammation and immune responses are critical in many diseases, VISTA is a promising therapeutic target. In this review, we will describe the expression and function of VISTA on different myeloid cells, including neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). In addition, we will discuss whether the functions of VISTA on these cells impact the disease processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Li
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Geng Wang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Yan Ren
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Yixuan Wang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Jianing Li
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Hua Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Jiaqiang Yang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Jingjun Xing
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Yanru Zhang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Canxia He
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Suling Xu
- Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Xin Hou
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Na Li
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
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9
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Sun C, He Y, Wang G, Zhang G, Zhang Y, Shen H, Hu L, Sun Y, Jiang B, Wang X, Yuan K, Min W, Wang L, Sun H, Xiao Y, Yang P. Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activity Evaluation of Novel VISTA Small Molecule Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3590-3605. [PMID: 38412237 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02039] [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: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation) is a novel immune checkpoint protein and represents a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a series of methoxy-pyrimidine-based VISTA small molecule inhibitors with potent antitumor activity. By employing molecular docking and microscale thermophoresis (MST) assay, we identified a lead compound A1 that binds to VISTA protein with high affinity and optimized its structure. A4 was then obtained, which exhibited the strongest binding ability to VISTA protein, with a KD value of 0.49 ± 0.20 μM. In vitro, A4 significantly activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) induced the release of cytokines such as IFN-γ and enhanced the cytotoxicity of PBMCs against tumor cells. In vivo, A4 displayed potent antitumor activity and synergized with PD-L1 antibody to enhance the therapeutic effect against cancer. These results suggest that compound A4 is an effective VISTA small molecule inhibitor, providing a basis for the future development of VISTA-targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengliang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yuling He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Gefei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Guoyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hao Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Lingrong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yanze Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Binjian Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenjian Min
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Liping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Haopeng Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing 401135, China
| | - Peng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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10
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Hayward D, Beekman AM. Strategies for converting turn-motif and cyclic peptides to small molecules for targeting protein-protein interactions. RSC Chem Biol 2024; 5:198-208. [PMID: 38456035 PMCID: PMC10915966 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00222e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of small molecules that interact with protein-protein interactions is an ongoing challenge. Peptides offer a starting point in the drug discovery process for targeting protein-interactions due to their larger, more flexible structure and the structurally diverse properties that allow for a greater interaction with the protein. The techniques for rapidly identifying potent cyclic peptides and turn-motif peptides are highly effective, but this potential has not yet transferred to approved drug candidates. By applying the properties of the peptide-protein interaction the development of small molecules for drug discovery has the potential to be more efficient. In this review, we discuss the methods that allow for the unique binding properties of peptides to proteins, and the methods deployed to transfer these qualities to potent small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanne Hayward
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park Norwich Norfolk NR47TJ UK
| | - Andrew M Beekman
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park Norwich Norfolk NR47TJ UK
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11
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Wang F, Fu K, Wang Y, Pan C, Wang X, Liu Z, Yang C, Zheng Y, Li X, Lu Y, To KKW, Xia C, Zhang J, Shi Z, Hu Z, Huang M, Fu L. Small-molecule agents for cancer immunotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:905-952. [PMID: 38486980 PMCID: PMC10935485 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.12.010] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, exemplified by the remarkable clinical benefits of the immune checkpoint blockade and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, is revolutionizing cancer therapy. They induce long-term tumor regression and overall survival benefit in many types of cancer. With the advances in our knowledge about the tumor immune microenvironment, remarkable progress has been made in the development of small-molecule drugs for immunotherapy. Small molecules targeting PRR-associated pathways, immune checkpoints, oncogenic signaling, metabolic pathways, cytokine/chemokine signaling, and immune-related kinases have been extensively investigated. Monotherapy of small-molecule immunotherapeutic drugs and their combinations with other antitumor modalities are under active clinical investigations to overcome immune tolerance and circumvent immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance. Here, we review the latest development of small-molecule agents for cancer immunotherapy by targeting defined pathways and highlighting their progress in recent clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Kai Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yujue Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Can Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xueping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Zeyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaopeng Li
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yu Lu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Kenneth Kin Wah To
- School of Pharmacy, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Chenglai Xia
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Jianye Zhang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Zhi Shi
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zeping Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Min Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Liwu Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
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12
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Rohit S, Patel M, Jagtap Y, Shah U, Patel A, Patel S, Solanki N. Structural Insights of PD-1/PD-L1 Axis: An In silico Approach. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2024; 25:638-650. [PMID: 38706351 DOI: 10.2174/0113892037297012240408063250] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interaction of PD-1 protein (present on immune T-cell) with its ligand PD-L1 (over-expressed on cancerous cell) makes the cancerous cell survive and thrive. The association of PD-1/PD-L1 represents a classical protein-protein interaction (PPI), where receptor and ligand binding through a large flat surface. Blocking the PD-1/PDL-1 complex formation can restore the normal immune mechanism, thereby destroying cancerous cells. However, the PD-1/PDL1 interactions are only partially characterized. OBJECTIVE We aim to comprehend the time-dependent behavior of PD-1 upon its binding with PD-L1. METHODS The current work focuses on a molecular dynamics simulation (MDs) simulation study of apo and ligand bound PD-1. RESULTS Our simulation reveals the flexible nature of the PD-1, both in apo and bound form. Moreover, the current study also differentiates the type of strong and weak interactions which could be targeted to overcome the complex formation. CONCLUSION The current article could provide a valuable structural insight about the target protein (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) which could open new opportunities in developing small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) targeting either PD-1 or PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shishir Rohit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Kashiv BioSciences Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujrat, India
| | - Mehul Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
| | - Yogesh Jagtap
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Kashiv BioSciences Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujrat, India
| | - Umang Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
| | - Ashish Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
| | - Swayamprakash Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
| | - Nilay Solanki
- Department of Pharmacology, Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, 388421, Ta. Petlad, Dist. Anand, Gujrat, India
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13
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Wang Y, Zhou Y, Yang L, Lei L, He B, Cao J, Gao H. Challenges Coexist with Opportunities: Spatial Heterogeneity Expression of PD-L1 in Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303175. [PMID: 37934012 PMCID: PMC10767451 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies has been used in various clinical applications and achieved certain results. However, such limitations as autoimmunity, tumor hyperprogression, and overall low patient response rate impede its further clinical application. Mounting evidence has revealed that PD-L1 is not only present in tumor cell membrane but also in cytoplasm, exosome, or even nucleus. Among these, the dynamic and spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 in tumors is mainly responsible for the unsatisfactory efficacy of PD-L1 antibodies. Hence, numerous studies focus on inhibiting or degrading PD-L1 to improve immune response, while a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying spatial heterogeneity of PD-L1 can fundamentally transform the current status of PD-L1 antibodies in clinical development. Herein, the concept of spatial heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 is creatively introduced, encompassing the structure and biological functions of various kinds of PD-L1 (including mPD-L1, cPD-L1, nPD-L1, and exoPD-L1). Then an in-depth analysis of the regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of PD-L1 is provided, seeking to offer a solid basis for future investigation. Moreover, the current status of agents is summarized, especially small molecular modulators development directed at these new targets, offering a novel perspective on potential PD-L1 therapeutics strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhen Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Lianyi Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Lei Lei
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Jun Cao
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsCollege of Biomedical EngineeringSichuan UniversityChengdu610064P. R. China
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug‐Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education MinistrySichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant‐Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial TechnologyWest China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
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14
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Niu X, Wu M, Li G, Zhou X, Cao W, Zhai W, Wu A, Zhou X, Jin S, Chen G, Li Y, Du J, Wu Y, Qiu L, Zhao W, Gao Y. Identification and optimization of peptide inhibitors to block VISTA/PSGL-1 interaction for cancer immunotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4511-4522. [PMID: 37969728 PMCID: PMC10638518 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing new therapeutic agents for cancer immunotherapy is highly demanding due to the low response ratio of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in cancer patients. Here, we discovered that the novel immune checkpoint VISTA is highly expressed on a variety of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, especially myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and CD8+ T cells. Then, peptide C1 with binding affinity to VISTA was developed by phage displayed bio-panning technique, and its mutant peptide VS3 was obtained by molecular docking based mutation. Peptide VS3 could bind VISTA with high affinity and block its interaction with ligand PSGL-1 under acidic condition, and elicit anti-tumor activity in vivo. The peptide DVS3-Pal was further designed by d-amino acid substitution and fatty acid modification, which exhibited strong proteolytic stability and significant anti-tumor activity through enhancing CD8+ T cell function and decreasing MDSCs infiltration. This is the first study to develop peptides to block VISTA/PSGL-1 interaction, which could act as promising candidates for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Niu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Menghan Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Guodong Li
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiuman Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Wenpeng Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Wenjie Zhai
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Aijun Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shengzhe Jin
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Guanyu Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yanying Li
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jiangfeng Du
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yahong Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Lu Qiu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Wenshan Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Protein and Peptide Drugs of Henan Province, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yanfeng Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
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15
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Roy D, Gilmour C, Patnaik S, Wang LL. Combinatorial blockade for cancer immunotherapy: targeting emerging immune checkpoint receptors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1264327. [PMID: 37928556 PMCID: PMC10620683 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1264327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The differentiation, survival, and effector function of tumor-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T cells lie at the center of antitumor immunity. Due to the lack of proper costimulation and the abundant immunosuppressive mechanisms, tumor-specific T cells show a lack of persistence and exhausted and dysfunctional phenotypes. Multiple coinhibitory receptors, such as PD-1, CTLA-4, VISTA, TIGIT, TIM-3, and LAG-3, contribute to dysfunctional CTLs and failed antitumor immunity. These coinhibitory receptors are collectively called immune checkpoint receptors (ICRs). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting these ICRs have become the cornerstone for cancer immunotherapy as they have established new clinical paradigms for an expanding range of previously untreatable cancers. Given the nonredundant yet convergent molecular pathways mediated by various ICRs, combinatorial immunotherapies are being tested to bring synergistic benefits to patients. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of several emerging ICRs, including VISTA, TIGIT, TIM-3, and LAG-3, and the preclinical and clinical data supporting combinatorial strategies to improve existing ICI therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dia Roy
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Cassandra Gilmour
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sachin Patnaik
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Li Lily Wang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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16
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Wu D, Li Y, Zheng L, Xiao H, Ouyang L, Wang G, Sun Q. Small molecules targeting protein-protein interactions for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4060-4088. [PMID: 37799384 PMCID: PMC10547922 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are fundamental to many biological processes that play an important role in the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. Targeting the interaction between tumour-related proteins with emerging small molecule drugs has become an attractive approach for treatment of human diseases, especially tumours. Encouragingly, selective PPI-based therapeutic agents have been rapidly advancing over the past decade, providing promising perspectives for novel therapies for patients with cancer. In this review we comprehensively clarify the discovery and development of small molecule modulators of PPIs from multiple aspects, focusing on PPIs in disease, drug design and discovery strategies, structure-activity relationships, inherent dilemmas, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defa Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lang Zheng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Huan Xiao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiu Sun
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Wang RN, Yu Q, Wang XB, Zhu D, Li GL, Li ZX, Jiang W, Li W, Dang YJ. Bis(benzonitrile) dichloroplatinum (II) interrupts PD-1/PD-L1 interaction by binding to PD-1. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:2103-2112. [PMID: 37193754 PMCID: PMC10545660 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01092-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1/PD-L1 antibody therapeutics are a promising option for the treatment of multiple cancers. Due to the inherent limitations of antibodies, great efforts have been devoted to developing small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway inhibitors. In this study we established a high-throughput AlphaLISA assay to discover small molecules with new skeletons that could block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. We screened a small-molecule library of 4169 compounds including natural products, FDA approved drugs and other synthetic compounds. Among the 8 potential hits, we found that cisplatin, a first-line chemotherapeutic drug, reduced AlphaLISA signal with an EC50 of 8.3 ± 2.2 μM. Furthermore, we showed that cisplatin-DMSO adduct, but not semplice cisplatin, inhibited PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. Thus, we assessed several commercial platinum (II) compounds, and found that bis(benzonitrile) dichloroplatinum (II) disturbed PD-1/PD-L1 interaction (EC50 = 13.2 ± 3.5 μM). Its inhibitory activity on PD-1/PD-L1 interaction was confirmed in co-immunoprecipitation and PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway blockade bioassays. Surface plasmon resonance assay revealed that bis(benzonitrile) dichloroplatinum (II) bound to PD-1 (KD = 2.08 μM) but not PD-L1. In immune-competent wild-type mice but not in immunodeficient nude mice, bis(benzonitrile) dichloroplatinum (II) (7.5 mg/kg, i.p., every 3 days) significantly suppressed the growth of MC38 colorectal cancer xenografts with increasing tumor-infiltrating T cells. These data highlight that platinum compounds are potential immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qian Yu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Di Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guo-Long Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Zeng-Xia Li
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Yong-Jun Dang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Center for Novel Target and Therapeutic Intervention, Institute of Life Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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18
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Liu J, Cheng Y, Yuan L, Liu T, Ruan Y, Ren Y, Li L, Jiang S, Xiao Y, Chen J. Discovery and Crystallography Study of Novel Biphenyl Ether and Oxadiazole Thioether (Non-Arylmethylamine)-Based Small-Molecule PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors as Immunotherapeutic Agents. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13172-13188. [PMID: 37674362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Current small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are mainly based on the arylmethylamine/biphenyl core scaffold. Herein, we designed for the first time a series of non-arylmethylamine analogues (oxadiazole thioether derivatives) as small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Among them, compound LP23 exhibited the most potent PD-L1 inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 16.7 nM, 3.2-fold better than the lead BMS-202 (IC50 = 53.6 nM). The X-ray crystal structure of LP23 in complex with PD-L1 was solved at a resolution of 2.6 Å, which further confirmed the high binding affinity of LP23 to PD-L1. In the HepG2/Jurkat T cell co-culture model, LP23 effectively promoted HepG2 cell death by restoring the immune function of T cells. In addition, LP23 showed excellent in vivo antitumor efficacy (TGI = 88.6% at 30 mg/kg) and benign toxicity profiles in a B16-F10 tumor model by modulating PD-L1. In summary, LP23 represents the first non-arylmethylamine-based small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education and One Health Institute, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing 401135, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yong Ruan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yichang Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ling Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Chongqing 401135, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Wang T, Wang K, Zhang Y, Zhang K, Cai S, Jiang S, Xiao Y, Zhang X. Novel Benzimidazoles as Potent Small-Molecule Inhibitors and Degraders of V-Domain Ig Suppressor of T-Cell Activation (VISTA). J Med Chem 2023; 66:11881-11892. [PMID: 37594853 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
The V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) is a promising negative immune checkpoint and plays a critical role in the regulation of the quiescence of naïve T lymphocytes. Most patients however do not experience durable disease control from current immune checkpoint inhibitors and discovery of inhibitors targeting novel immune checkpoints is necessary. Herein, we report our discovery and optimization of benzimidazoles as the bifunctional inhibitors of VISTA. Compound 1 is identified as a bifunctional inhibitor targeting VISTA, which shows good binding affinity to VISTA and induces VISTA degradation in HepG2 cells through an autophagic mechanism. Compound 1 rescues VISTA-mediated immunosuppression effectively and enhances antitumor activity of immune cells. 1 activates the antitumor immunity in vivo and suppresses tumor growth in a CT26 mouse model significantly. Our results show that compound 1 is a promising VISTA inhibitor and degrader and offers novel approach for cancer immunotherapy through VISTA degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kaizhen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Cai
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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20
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Li X, Zeng Q, Xu F, Jiang Y, Jiang Z. Progress in programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 pathway inhibitors and binding mode analysis. Mol Divers 2023; 27:1935-1955. [PMID: 35948846 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10509-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays an important role in negative regulating immunity. The search for effective PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has been at the cutting-edge of academic and industrial medicinal chemistry, leading to the emergence of 16 clinical candidate drugs and the launch of six monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) drugs. However, due to the unclear mechanism of the interaction between drugs and substances in vivo, the screening of preclinical drugs often takes a long time. In order to shorten the time of drug development as much as possible, the binding mode analysis that can simulate the interaction between drugs and substances in vivo at the molecular level can significantly shorten the drug development process. This paper reviews the mechanism of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway at the molecular level, as well as the research progress and obstacles of inhibitors. Besides, we analyzed the binding mode of recently reported PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors with PD-1 or PD-L1 protein in detail in order to provide ideas for the development of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chun'an County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qin Zeng
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Fengjiao Xu
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuying Jiang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhongmei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chun'an County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311700, Zhejiang, China.
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21
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Ważyńska MA, Butera R, Requesens M, Plat A, Zarganes-Tzitzikas T, Neochoritis CG, Plewka J, Skalniak L, Kocik-Krol J, Musielak B, Magiera-Mularz K, Rodriguez I, Blok SN, de Bruyn M, Nijman HW, Elsinga PH, Holak TA, Dömling A. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of 2-Hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile as PD-L1 Antagonist and Its Comparison to Available Small Molecular PD-L1 Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37450644 PMCID: PMC10388299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In search of a potent small molecular PD-L1 inhibitor, we designed and synthesized a compound based on a 2-hydroxy-4-phenylthiophene-3-carbonitrile moiety. Ligand's performance was tested in vitro and compared side-by-side with a known PD-L1 antagonist with a proven bioactivity BMS1166. Subsequently, we modified both compounds to allow 18F labeling that could be used for PET imaging. Radiolabeling, which is used in drug development and diagnosis, was applied to investigate the properties of those ligands and test them against tissue sections with diverse expression levels of PD-L1. We confirmed biological activity toward hPD-L1 for this inhibitor, comparable with BMS1166, while holding enhanced pharmacological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A Ważyńska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Butera
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Requesens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annechien Plat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tryfon Zarganes-Tzitzikas
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, NDM Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7FZ Oxford, U.K
| | | | - Jacek Plewka
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Lukasz Skalniak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Kocik-Krol
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Bogdan Musielak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Magiera-Mularz
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ismael Rodriguez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Prof. St. Łojasiewicz St 11, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Simon N Blok
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marco de Bruyn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans W Nijman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Philip H Elsinga
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and MolecularImaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tad A Holak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alexander Dömling
- Department of Drug Design, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc 77900, Czech Republic
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22
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J. Reinstating immunogenicity using bispecific anti-checkpoint/agent inhibitors. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114621. [PMID: 37004328 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) resistance demands for acquisition of novel strategies in order to broaden the therapeutic repertoire of advanced cancers. Bispecific antibodies can be utilized as an emerging therapeutic paradigm and a step forward in cancer immunotherapy. Synchronous inhibition of programmed death-1 (PD-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) or cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4), or with other agents can expand antibody selectivity and improve therapeutic window through tightening cell-to-cell bridge (a process called immunological synapse) within tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). There is evidence of higher potency of this co-targeting approach over combined single-agent monoclonal antibodies in reinvigorating anti-tumor immune responses, retarding tumor growth, and improving patient survival. In fact, immunological synapses formed by interactions of such bispecific agents with TIME cells directly mediate cytotoxicity against tumor cells, and durable anti-tumor immune responses are predictable after application of such agents. Besides, lower adverse events are reported for bispecific antibodies compared with individual checkpoint inhibitors. These are all indicative of the importance of exploiting novel bispecific approach as a replacement for conventional combo checkpoint inhibitor therapy particularly for tumors with immunosuppressive or cold immunity. Study in this area is still continued, and in the future more will be known about the importance of this bispecific approach in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Jamal Majidpoor
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Infectious Disease Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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23
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Shi YY, Wang AJ, Liu XL, Dai MY, Cai HB. Stapled peptide PROTAC induced significantly greater anti-PD-L1 effects than inhibitor in human cervical cancer cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1193222. [PMID: 37325638 PMCID: PMC10262918 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1193222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibodies that target immune checkpoints that suppress immune cell activity. Low efficiency and high resistance are currently the main barriers to their clinical application. As a representative technology of targeted protein degradation, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are considered to have potential for addressing these limitations. Methods We synthesized a stapled peptide-based PROTAC (SP-PROTAC) that specifically targeted palmitoyltransferase ZDHHC3 and resulted in the decrease of PD-L1 in human cervical cancer cell lines. Flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, protein immunoblotting, Cellular Thermal Shift Assay (CETSA), and MTT assay analyses were conducted to evaluate the effects of the designed peptide and verify its safety in human cells. Results In cervical cancer celllines C33A and HeLa, the stapled peptide strongly downregulated PD-L1 to < 50% of baseline level at 0.1 μM. DHHC3 expression decreased in both dosedependentand time-dependent manners. MG132, the proteasome inhibitor, can alleviate the SP-PROTAC mediated degradation of PD-L1 in human cancer cells. In a co-culture model of C33A and T cells, treatment with the peptide induced IFN-γ and TNF-α release in a dose-dependent manner by degrading PD-L1. These effects were more significant than that of the PD-L1 inhibitor, BMS-8. Conclusions Cells treated with 0.1 μM of SP-PROTAC or BMS-8 for 4 h revealed that the stapled peptide decreased PD-L1 more effectively than BMS-8. DHHC3-targeting SP-PROTAC decreased PD-L1 in human cervical cancer more effectively than the inhibitor BMS-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ying Shi
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - An-Jin Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xue-Lian Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng-Yuan Dai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hong-Bing Cai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Boisgerault N, Bertrand P. Inside PD-1/PD-L1,2 with their inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115465. [PMID: 37196547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes current knowledge in the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, including antibodies and small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Boisgerault
- Nantes Université, Inserm UMR 1307, CNRS UMR 6075, Université D'Angers, CRCI2NA, LabEx IGO, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Bertrand
- University of Poitiers, IC2MP UMR 7285 CNRS, 4 Rue Michel Brunet B27, TSA 51106, 86073 Poitiers Cedex 9, France.
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25
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Gu T, Tian X, Wang Y, Yang W, Li W, Song M, Zhao R, Wang M, Gao Q, Li T, Zhang C, Kundu JK, Liu K, Dong Z, Lee MH. Repurposing pentamidine for cancer immunotherapy by targeting the PD1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1145028. [PMID: 37205112 PMCID: PMC10185823 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1145028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as an effective therapeutic approach to several cancer types. The reinvigoration of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte-mediated immune responses via the blockade of immune checkpoint markers, such as program cell death-1 (PD-1) or its cognate ligand PD-L1, has been the basis for developing clinically effective anticancer therapies. We identified pentamidine, an FDA-approved antimicrobial agent, as a small-molecule antagonist of PD-L1. Pentamidine enhanced T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity against various cancer cells in vitro by increasing the secretion of IFN-γ, TNF-α, perforin, and granzyme B in the culture medium. Pentamidine promoted T-cell activation by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. In vivo administration of pentamidine attenuated the tumor growth and prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing mice in PD-L1 humanized murine tumor cell allograft models. Histological analysis of tumor tissues showed an increased number of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in tissues derived from pentamidine-treated mice. In summary, our study suggests that pentamidine holds the potential to be repurposed as a novel PD-L1 antagonist that may overcome the limitations of monoclonal antibody therapy and can emerge as a small molecule cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingxuan Gu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueli Tian
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenqian Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengqiu Song
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ran Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengqiao Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Quanli Gao
- Department of Immunology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tiepeng Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chengjuan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Joydeb Kumar Kundu
- Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zigang Dong, ; Mee-Hyun Lee,
| | - Mee-Hyun Lee
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongshin University, Naju, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Zigang Dong, ; Mee-Hyun Lee,
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Jahangir M, Yazdani O, Kahrizi MS, Soltanzadeh S, Javididashtbayaz H, Mivefroshan A, Ilkhani S, Esbati R. Clinical potential of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC): a rapidly evolving strategy. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:401. [PMID: 36510217 PMCID: PMC9743549 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02816-3] [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: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blockade therapy has become a game-changing therapeutic approach revolutionizing the treatment setting of human malignancies, such as renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Despite the remarkable clinical activity of anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies, only a small portion of patients exhibit a positive response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy, and the primary or acquired resistance might ultimately favor cancer development in patients with clinical responses. In light of this, recent reports have signified that the addition of other therapeutic modalities to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy might improve clinical responses in advanced RCC patients. Until, combination therapy with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy plus cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitor (ipilimumab) or various vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) inhibitors axitinib, such as axitinib and cabozantinib, has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as first-line treatment for metastatic RCC. In the present review, we have focused on the therapeutic benefits of the PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy as a single agent or in combination with other conventional or innovative targeted therapies in RCC patients. We also offer a glimpse into the well-determined prognostic factor associated with the clinical response of RCC patients to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadsaleh Jahangir
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Yazdani
- grid.411600.2School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saeed Kahrizi
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Surgery, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Alborz Iran
| | - Sara Soltanzadeh
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Javididashtbayaz
- grid.411768.d0000 0004 1756 1744Baran Oncology Clinic, Medical Faculty, Islamic Azad University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Azam Mivefroshan
- grid.412763.50000 0004 0442 8645Department of Adult Nephrology, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Saba Ilkhani
- grid.411600.2Department of Surgery and Vascular Surgery, Shohada-ye-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Romina Esbati
- grid.411600.2School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J, Najafi S. VISTA immune regulatory effects in bypassing cancer immunotherapy: Updated. Life Sci 2022; 310:121083. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Biphenyl-based small molecule inhibitors: Novel cancer immunotherapeutic agents targeting PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 73:117001. [PMID: 36126447 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117001] [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: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The immune checkpoint proteins are those key to the body's immunity which can either boost the immune system to protect the body from pathogens; or suppress the body's immunity system for the goal of self-tolerance. Cancer cells have evolved some mechanisms to boost the immuno-inhibitory checkpoints to bypass the immune system of the body. The binding of Programmed Cell Death-1 (PD-1) protein with its ligand Programmed Cell Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1) promotes this kind of immune-inhibitory signal. The discovery of immune checkpoint inhibitors was started in the early 21st century; with some success through monoclonal antibodies, peptides, and small molecules. Being the most reliable and safest way to target immune checkpoints, the scientific community is exploring possibilities to develop small molecule inhibitors. Among the different scaffolds of the small molecule, the most exposed and researched core molecule is Biphenyl-based scaffolds. We have described all of the possible biphenyl-based small molecules in this article, as well as their interactions with various amino acids in the binding cavity. The link between the in silico, in vitro, and in vivo activities of the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are well connected. The Tyr56, Met115, Ala121, and Asp122 were detected as the crucial amino acids of the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition. Additionally, a detailed binding pocket analysis of the PD-L1 receptor was carried out, where it was observed and confirmed that the binding pocket is tunnel-shaped and hydrophobic in nature. Finally, the structure-activity relationship of the biphenyl-based small molecule inhibitors was developed based on their activity and the binding interactions.
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Zheng S, Zhang K, Zhang X, Xiao Y, Wang T, Jiang S. Development of Inhibitors Targeting the V-Domain Ig Suppressor of T Cell Activation Signal Pathway. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11900-11912. [PMID: 36083840 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Blockade of cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) has produced considerable therapeutic effect, but only in a fraction of patients, so more targets are being investigated. VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation) is a novel immune checkpoint that is broadly expressed within hematopoietic cells and multiple cancers (low expressing frequency on solid tumors), particularly those with a poor immunotherapy response rate. As a result, VISTA has been identified as an appealing target for immunotherapy, and several VISTA inhibitors are currently in clinical and preclinical trials. In this review, the structural features and binding partners of VISTA are summarized, and we describe the latest developments of monoclonal antibodies and small molecules targeting VISTA as well as possible future directions for development of therapies targeting VISTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianyu Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Microscale Thermophoresis as a Tool to Study Protein Interactions and Their Implication in Human Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147672. [PMID: 35887019 PMCID: PMC9315744 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The review highlights how protein–protein interactions (PPIs) have determining roles in most life processes and how interactions between protein partners are involved in various human diseases. The study of PPIs and binding interactions as well as their understanding, quantification and pharmacological regulation are crucial for therapeutic purposes. Diverse computational and analytical methods, combined with high-throughput screening (HTS), have been extensively used to characterize multiple types of PPIs, but these procedures are generally laborious, long and expensive. Rapid, robust and efficient alternative methods are proposed, including the use of Microscale Thermophoresis (MST), which has emerged as the technology of choice in drug discovery programs in recent years. This review summarizes selected case studies pertaining to the use of MST to detect therapeutically pertinent proteins and highlights the biological importance of binding interactions, implicated in various human diseases. The benefits and limitations of MST to study PPIs and to identify regulators are discussed.
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Shen DD, Bi YP, Pang JR, Zhao LJ, Zhao LF, Gao Y, Wang B, Liu HM, Liu Y, Wang N, Zheng YC, Liu HM. Generation, secretion and degradation of cancer immunotherapy target PD-L1. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:413. [PMID: 35819633 PMCID: PMC11073444 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04431-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is a rapidly developing and effective method for the treatment of a variety of malignancies in recent years. As a significant immune checkpoint, programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and its receptor programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) play the most significant role in cancer immune escape and cancer immunotherapy. Though PD-L1 have become an important target for drug development and there have been various approved drugs and clinic trials targeting it, and various clinical response rate and adverse reactions prevent many patients from benefiting from it. In recent years, combination trials have become the main direction of PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies development. Here, we summarized PD-L1 biofunctions and key roles in various cancers along with the development of PD-L1 inhibitors. The regulators that are involved in controlling PD-L1 expression including post-translational modification, mRNA level regulation as well as degradation and exosome secretory pathway of PD-L1 were focused. This systematic summary may provide comprehensive understanding of different regulations on PD-L1 as well as a broad prospect for the search of the important regulator of PD-L1. The regulatory factors of PD-L1 can be potential targets for immunotherapy and increase strategies of immunotherapy in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Dan Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Endometrial Disease Prevention and Treatment Zhengzhou China, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ya-Ping Bi
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jing-Ru Pang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Li-Juan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Long-Fei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Hui-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ning Wang
- The School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Chao Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Endometrial Disease Prevention and Treatment Zhengzhou China, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Hong-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Bojko M, Węgrzyn K, Sikorska E, Kocikowski M, Parys M, Battin C, Steinberger P, Kogut MM, Winnicki M, Sieradzan AK, Spodzieja M, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of PD-1 derived peptides as inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 complex formation for cancer therapy. Bioorg Chem 2022; 128:106047. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Imaging of Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma with Immune Checkpoint Targeting Aptamer-Based Probe. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060697. [PMID: 35745616 PMCID: PMC9229018 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint targeting immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers in the recent years. Determination of the status of immune checkpoint expression in particular cancers may assist decision making. Here, we describe the development of a single-stranded aptamer-based molecular probe specifically recognizing human PD-L1. Target engaging aptamers are selected by iterative enrichment from a random ssDNA pool and the binding is characterized biochemically. Specificity and dose dependence is demonstrated in vitro in the cell culture using human kidney tumor cells (786-0), human melanoma cells (WM115 and WM266.4) and human glioblastoma LN18 cancer cells. The utility of the probe in vivo is demonstrated using two mouse tumor models, where we show that the probe exhibits excellent potential in imaging. We postulate that further development of the probe may allow universal imaging of different types of tumors depending on their PD-L1 status, which may find utility in cancer diagnosis.
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34
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Le Biannic R, Magnez R, Klupsch F, Leleu-Chavain N, Thiroux B, Tardy M, El Bouazzati H, Dezitter X, Renault N, Vergoten G, Bailly C, Quesnel B, Thuru X, Millet R. Pyrazolones as inhibitors of immune checkpoint blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 236:114343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Sasikumar PG, Ramachandra M. Small Molecule Agents Targeting PD-1 Checkpoint Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy: Mechanisms of Action and Other Considerations for Their Advanced Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:752065. [PMID: 35585982 PMCID: PMC9108255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.752065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pioneering success of antibodies targeting immune checkpoints such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) has changed the outlook of cancer therapy. Although these antibodies show impressive durable clinical activity, low response rates and immune-related adverse events are becoming increasingly evident in antibody-based approaches. For further strides in cancer immunotherapy, novel treatment strategies including combination therapies and alternate therapeutic modalities are highly warranted. Towards this discovery and development of small molecule, checkpoint inhibitors are actively being pursued, and the efforts have culminated in the ongoing clinical testing of orally bioavailable checkpoint inhibitors. This review focuses on the small molecule agents targeting PD-1 checkpoint pathway for cancer immunotherapy and highlights various chemotypes/scaffolds and their characterization including binding and functionality along with reported mechanism of action. The learnings from the ongoing small molecule clinical trials and crucial points to be considered for their clinical development are also discussed.
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36
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Jouini N, Cardinale J, Mindt TL. Evaluation of a Radiolabelled Macrocyclic Peptide as Potential PET Imaging Probe for PD-L1. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200091. [PMID: 35388635 PMCID: PMC9320808 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between the immune checkpoint PD‐1 and PD−L1 promotes T‐cell deactivation and cancer proliferation. Therefore, immune checkpoint inhibition therapy, which relies on prior assessment of the target, has been widely used for many cancers. As a non‐invasive molecular imaging tool, radiotracers bring novel information on the in vivo expression of biomarkers (e. g., PD−L1), enabling a personalized treatment of patients. Our work aimed at the development of a PD−L1‐specific, peptide‐based PET radiotracer. We synthesized and evaluated a radiolabeled macrocyclic peptide adapted from a patent by Bristol Myers Squibb. Synthesis of [68Ga]Ga‐NJMP1 yielded a product with a radiochemical purity>95 % that was evaluated in vitro. However, experiments on CHO−K1 hPD−L1 cells showed very low cell binding and internalization rates of [68Ga]Ga‐NJMP1 in comparison to a control radiopeptide (WL12). Non‐radioactive cellular assays using time‐resolved fluorescence energy transfer confirmed the low affinity of the reported parent peptide and the DOTA‐derivatives towards PD−L1. The results of our studies indicate that the macrocyclic peptide scaffold reported in the patent literature is not suitable for radiotracer development due to insufficient affinity towards PD−L1 and that C‐terminal modifications of the macrocyclic peptide interfere with important ligand/receptor interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nedra Jouini
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarkers, AUSTRIA
| | - Jens Cardinale
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarker, AUSTRIA
| | - Thomas L Mindt
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Applied Diagnostics, Imaging Biomarker, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, AKH, c/o Sekretariat Nuklearmedizin, 1090, Vienna, AUSTRIA
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Lai F, Ji M, Huang L, Wang Y, Xue N, Du T, Dong K, Yao X, Jin J, Feng Z, Chen X. YPD-30, a prodrug of YPD-29B, is an oral small-molecule inhibitor targeting PD-L1 for the treatment of human cancer. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2845-2858. [PMID: 35755282 PMCID: PMC9214057 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PD-1 and PD-L1 antibodies have brought about extraordinary clinical benefits for cancer patients, and their indications are expanding incessantly. Currently, most PD-1/PD-L1 agents are administered intravenously, which may be uncomfortable for some cancer patients. Herein, we develop a novel oral-delivered small molecular, YPD-29B, which specifically targets human PD-L1. Our data suggested that YPD-29B could potently and selectively block the interaction between PD-L1 and PD-1, but did not inhibit any other immune checkpoints. Mechanistically, YPD-29B induced human PD-L1 dimerization and internalization, which subsequently activated T lymphocytes and therefore overcomes immunity tolerance in vitro. YDP-29B was modified as the YPD-30 prodrug to improve druggability. Using humanized mice with human PD-1 xenografts of human PD-L1 knock-in mouse MC38 cancer cells, we demonstrated that YPD-30 exhibited significant antitumor activity and was well tolerated in vivo. Taken together, our results indicate that YPD-30 serves as a promising therapeutic candidate for anti-human PD-L1 cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Lai
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Ming Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yunchen Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Nina Xue
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tingting Du
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Kai Dong
- Tianjin Chase Sun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yao
- Tianjin Chase Sun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 10 863165207.
| | - Zhiqiang Feng
- Department of Pharmacochemistry, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 10 863165207.
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 10 863165207.
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Baglini E, Salerno S, Barresi E, Marzo T, Settimo FD, Taliani S. Cancer Immunotherapy: An Overview on Small Molecules as Inhibitors of the Immune Checkpoint PD-1/PD-L1 (2015-2021). Mini Rev Med Chem 2022; 22:1816-1827. [PMID: 35176979 DOI: 10.2174/1389557522666220217110925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In 2018, James Allison and Tasuku Honjo received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discovery of tumor therapy inhibition of negative immune regulation. Immunotherapy stimulates T-cells to fight cancer cells by blocking different immune checkpoint pathways. The interaction between programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 (Programmed cell death ligand 1), is one of the main immune checkpoints. Of note, interfering with this pathway is already exploited in clinical cancer therapy, demonstrating that it is one of the key factors involved in cancer immune escape. The development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that possess the ability to inhibit the interactions between PD-1/PD-L1 has radically made the difference in cancer immunotherapy. Yet, because of the many drawbacks that this therapy possesses, the research moved its efforts towards the development of novel small molecules. This may constitute a hope, but also an arduous challenge in fighting cancer. This paper reviews the recent primary literature concerning the development of novel small molecules able to blockade the interaction between PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Baglini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa
| | - Silvia Salerno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa
| | | | - Tiziano Marzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa
| | | | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa
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Yamaguchi H, Hsu JM, Yang WH, Hung MC. Mechanisms regulating PD-L1 expression in cancers and associated opportunities for novel small-molecule therapeutics. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022; 19:287-305. [DOI: 10.1038/s41571-022-00601-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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40
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Liu D, Gao S, Zhai Y, Yang X, Zhai G. Research progress of tumor targeted drug delivery based on PD-1/PD-L1. Int J Pharm 2022; 616:121527. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.121527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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41
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Ma C, Qiao S, Liu Z, Shan L, Liang C, Fan M, Sun F. A Novel Type of PD-L1 Inhibitor rU1 snRNPA From Human-Derived Protein Scaffolds Library. Front Oncol 2021; 11:781046. [PMID: 34912719 PMCID: PMC8666589 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.781046] [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: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Three marketed anti-PD-L1 antibodies almost have severe immune-mediated side effects. The therapeutic effects of anti-PD-L1 chemical inhibitors are not satisfied in the clinical trials. Here we constructed human-derived protein scaffolds library and screened scaffolds with a shape complementary to the PD-1 binding domain of PD-L1. The RNA binding domain of U1 snRNPA was selected as one of potential binders because it had the most favorable binding energies with PD-L1 and conformed to pre-established biological criteria for the screening of candidates. The recombinant U1 snRNPA (rU1 snRNPA) in Escherichia coli exhibits anti-cancer activity in melanoma and breast cancer by reactivating tumor-suppressed T cells in vitro and anti-melanoma activity in vivo. Considering hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, three residues were mutated on the interface of U1 snRNPA and PD-L1 complex, and the ranked variants by PatchDock and A32D showed an increased active phenotype. The screening of human-derived protein scaffolds may become the potential development of therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Sennan Qiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhiyi Liu
- Institute of Frontier Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Liang Shan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chongyang Liang
- Institute of Frontier Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Meiling Fan
- Jilin Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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42
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Mittal L, Tonk RK, Awasthi A, Asthana S. Targeting cryptic-orthosteric site of PD-L1 for inhibitor identification using structure-guided approach. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 713:109059. [PMID: 34673001 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Approved mAbs that block the protein-protein interaction (PPI) interface of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint axis have led to significant improvements in cancer treatment. Despite having drawbacks of mAbs only few a compounds are reported till date against this axis. Inhibiting PPIs using small molecules has emerged as a significant therapeutic opportunity, demanding for the identification of drug-like molecules at an accelerated pace under the hit-to-lead campaigns. Due to the PD-L1's cross-talk with PD-1/CD80 and its overexpression on cancer cells, as well as the availability of its crystal structures with small molecules, it is an enticing therapeutic target for structure-assisted small molecule design. Furthermore, the selection of chemical databases enriched with focused designing for PPI interfaces is crucial. Therefore, in this study we have utilized the Asinex signature library for structure-assisted virtual screening to find the potential PD-L1 inhibitors by targeting the cryptic PD-L1 interface, followed by induced fit docking for pose refinements in the pocket. The obtained hits were then subjected to interaction fingerprinting and ligand-based drug-likeness investigations in order to evaluate and analyze their drug-like qualities (ADME). Twelve compounds qualified for molecular dynamics simulations, followed by thermodynamic calculations for evaluation of their stability and energetics inside the pocket. Two novel compounds with different chemical moieties have been identified that are consistent throughout the simulation, mimicking the interactions and binding energies with BMS-1166. These compounds appear as potential therapeutic candidates to be explored experimentally, thereby paving the way for the development of novel leads as immunomodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovika Mittal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India; Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Rajiv K Tonk
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Shailendra Asthana
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India.
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43
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Mabonga L, Masamba P, Basson AK, Kappo AP. Microscale thermophoresis analysis of the molecular interaction between small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide G and the RING finger domain of RBBP6 towards anti-cancer drug discovery. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:12775-12785. [PMID: 34956492 PMCID: PMC8661184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory core-splicing proteins are now becoming highly promising therapeutic targets for the development of anti-cancer drugs. SNRPG and RBBP6 are two good examples of regulatory core-splicing proteins involved in tumorigenesis and tumor development whose multi-functional role is primarily mediated by protein-protein interactions. Over the years, skepticism abutting from the two onco-proteins has been mounting. Suggestive evidence using yeast 2-hybrid technique observed possible involvement between SNRPG and the RING finger domain of RBBP6. However, the putative interaction remains elusive and yet to be characterized. In this study, we developed the first MST-based assay to confirm the interaction between SNRPG and the RING finger domain of RBBP6. The results demonstrated a strong binding affinity between SNRPG and the RING finger domain of RBBP6 with a KD in the low nanomolar concentration range of 3.1596 nM. The results are congruent with previous findings suggesting possible involvement between the two proteins in cancer-cell networks, thereby providing a new mechanistic insight into the interaction between SNRPG and the RING finger domain of RBBP6. The interaction is therapeutically relevant and represents a great milestone in the anti-cancer drug discovery space. Identification of small molecule inhibitors to modulate the binding affinity between the two proteins would therefore be a major breakthrough in the development of new PPI-focused anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lloyd Mabonga
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of ZululandKwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | - Priscilla Masamba
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology (MBSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway CampusAuckland Park 2006, South Africa
| | - Albertus Kotze Basson
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of ZululandKwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | - Abidemi Paul Kappo
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology (MBSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway CampusAuckland Park 2006, South Africa
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44
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Muneer I, Ahmad S, Naz A, Abbasi SW, Alblihy A, Aloliqi AA, Aba Alkhayl FF, Alrumaihi F, Ahmad S, El Bakri Y, Tahir Ul Qamar M. Discovery of Novel Inhibitors From Medicinal Plants for V-Domain Ig Suppressor of T-Cell Activation. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:716735. [PMID: 34765641 PMCID: PMC8576517 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.716735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is an immune checkpoint and is a type I transmembrane protein. VISTA is linked to immunotherapy resistance, and it is a potential immune therapeutic target, especially for triple-negative breast cancer. It expresses at a high concentration in regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and its functional blockade is found to delay tumor growth. A useful medicinal plant database for drug designing (MPD3), which is a collection of phytochemicals from diverse plant families, was employed in virtual screening against VISTA to prioritize natural inhibitors against VISTA. Three compounds, Paratocarpin K (PubChem ID: 14187087), 3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-(trimethylazaniumyl)propanoate (PubChem ID: 3861164), and 2-[(5-Benzyl-4-ethyl-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)sulfanylmethyl]-5-methyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole (PubChem ID: 6494266), having binding energies stronger than -6 kcal/mol were found to have two common hydrogen bond interactions with VISTA active site residues: Arg54 and Arg127. The dynamics of the compound-VISTA complexes were further explored to infer binding stability of the systems. Results revealed that the compound 14187087 and 6494266 systems are highly stable with an average RMSD of 1.31 Å. Further affirmation on the results was achieved by running MM-GBSA on the MD simulation trajectories, which re-ranked 14187087 as the top-binder with a net binding energy value of -33.33 kcal/mol. In conclusion, the present study successfully predicted natural compounds that have the potential to block the function of VISTA and therefore can be utilized further in experimental studies to validate their real anti-VISTA activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Muneer
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Anam Naz
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sumra Wajid Abbasi
- NUMS Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Adel Alblihy
- Medical Center, King Fahad Security College (KFSC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz A Aloliqi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris F Aba Alkhayl
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Alrumaihi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarfraz Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Youness El Bakri
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Chemistry, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russia
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Surmiak E, Magiera-Mularz K, Musielak B, Muszak D, Kocik-Krol J, Kitel R, Plewka J, Holak TA, Skalniak L. PD-L1 Inhibitors: Different Classes, Activities, and Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111797. [PMID: 34769226 PMCID: PMC8583776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) interaction has become an established strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Although hundreds of small-molecule, peptide, and peptidomimetic inhibitors have been proposed in recent years, only a limited number of drug candidates show good PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity in cell-based assays. In this article, we compare representative molecules from different classes in terms of their PD-1/PD-L1 dissociation capacity measured by HTRF and in vitro bioactivity determined by the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) co-culture assay. We point to recent discoveries that underscore important differences in the mechanisms of action of these molecules and also indicate one principal feature that needs to be considered, which is the eventual human PD-L1 specificity.
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46
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Wu C, Cao X, Zhang X. VISTA inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: a short perspective on recent progresses. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:1672-1679. [PMID: 34778768 PMCID: PMC8528208 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00185j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
V-domain immunoglobulin (Ig) suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is a novel negative checkpoint regulator that mediates T cell proliferation and cytokine production. The VISTA signaling pathway blockade has been proved as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Recent VISTA sequence analysis and crystal structure investigations have revealed its independent and unique function as compared with B7 family members, such as PD-1. This review will discuss VISTA binding partners and compare the structural differences between VISTA and other B7 family members, focusing on VISTA functions in immune activation and maintaining T cell quiescence. Recent progress and the therapeutic potential of biomacromolecules, such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small molecules targeting VISTA, are also discussed. Among these, a first-in-class small-molecule antagonist, CA-170, is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, and Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 211198 China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Xiaojin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, and Department of Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University Nanjing 211198 China
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47
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Emerging targets for anticancer vaccination: PD-1. ESMO Open 2021; 6:100278. [PMID: 34649221 PMCID: PMC8517287 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2021.100278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the mechanisms by which tumor cells escape the immune surveillance, one is the interaction between programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway with monoclonal antibodies as immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1 or its ligand, PD-L1, represents a milestone in cancer therapy. The application of these antibodies, however, suffers from drawbacks including failure to show a response or benefit in a majority of patients following monotherapy or combination therapy, their frequent administration, and cost intensiveness. Small peptides capable of interfering with PD-1/PD-L1 interaction represent interesting alternatives to antibody-based immune checkpoint inhibitors. Moreover, peptides representing PD-1 or PD-L1 sequences can be used in active immunization approaches to induce antibodies that enhance antitumor immunity by effectively preventing PD-1-mediated inhibition in the host. Importantly, such peptides can readily be combined with peptides derived from cancer antigens to effectively induce an antitumor immune response. In this review, we have summarized the recent developments in the use of small molecules and peptides either to directly block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction, or in vaccination approaches to induce antibody responses stimulating anticancer immunity by blocking PD-1-mediated T-cell inhibition. Blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction by antibodies as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a milestone in immunotherapy. Treatment by ICIs has disadvantages, like frequent administration, low response in some patients, and cost intensiveness. Direct blockade by small compounds or vaccination by peptides are two promising alternatives to the treatments with ICIs. Such alternatives may pave the way to therapeutics which could be used as monotherapy, or in combination with ICIs.
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48
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Sun G, Rong D, Li Z, Sun G, Wu F, Li X, Cao H, Cheng Y, Tang W, Sun Y. Role of Small Molecule Targeted Compounds in Cancer: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:694363. [PMID: 34568317 PMCID: PMC8455877 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.694363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on molecular targeted therapy of tumors is booming, and novel targeted therapy drugs are constantly emerging. Small molecule targeted compounds, novel targeted therapy drugs, can be administered orally as tablets among other methods, and do not draw upon genes, causing no immune response. It is easily structurally modified to make it more applicable to clinical needs, and convenient to promote due to low cost. It refers to a hotspot in the research of tumor molecular targeted therapy. In the present study, we review the current Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved use of small molecule targeted compounds in tumors, summarize the clinical drug resistance problems and mechanisms facing the use of small molecule targeted compounds, and predict the future directions of the evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Rong
- Hepatobiliary/Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Living Donor Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhouxiao Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Guangshun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongyong Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Hepatobiliary/Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Living Donor Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Yangbai Sun
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
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49
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Nastase A, Mandal A, Lu SK, Anbunathan H, Morris-Rosendahl D, Zhang YZ, Sun XM, Gennatas S, Rintoul RC, Edwards M, Bowman A, Chernova T, Benepal T, Lim E, Taylor AN, Nicholson AG, Popat S, Willis AE, MacFarlane M, Lathrop M, Bowcock AM, Moffatt MF, Cookson WOCM. Integrated genomics point to immune vulnerabilities in pleural mesothelioma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19138. [PMID: 34580349 PMCID: PMC8476593 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98414-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive malignancy with limited effective therapies. In order to identify therapeutic targets, we integrated SNP genotyping, sequencing and transcriptomics from tumours and low-passage patient-derived cells. Previously unrecognised deletions of SUFU locus (10q24.32), observed in 21% of 118 tumours, resulted in disordered expression of transcripts from Hedgehog pathways and the T-cell synapse including VISTA. Co-deletion of Interferon Type I genes and CDKN2A was present in half of tumours and was a predictor of poor survival. We also found previously unrecognised deletions in RB1 in 26% of cases and show sub-micromolar responses to downstream PLK1, CHEK1 and Aurora Kinase inhibitors in primary mesothelioma cells. Defects in Hippo pathways that included RASSF7 amplification and NF2 or LATS1/2 mutations were present in 50% of tumours and were accompanied by micromolar responses to the YAP1 inhibitor Verteporfin. Our results suggest new therapeutic avenues in mesothelioma and indicate targets and biomarkers for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Nastase
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Amit Mandal
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Shir Kiong Lu
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Hima Anbunathan
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Deborah Morris-Rosendahl
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Yu Zhi Zhang
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Xiao-Ming Sun
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Spyridon Gennatas
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Robert C Rintoul
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew Edwards
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Alex Bowman
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tatyana Chernova
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tim Benepal
- Department of Oncology, St George's Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eric Lim
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Anthony Newman Taylor
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Andrew G Nicholson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sanjay Popat
- Department of Medicine, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Anne E Willis
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marion MacFarlane
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark Lathrop
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Anne M Bowcock
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK
| | - Miriam F Moffatt
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK.
| | - William O C M Cookson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London, SW36LY, UK.
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50
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Fang L, Tian J, Zhang K, Zhang X, Liu Y, Cheng Z, Zhou J, Zhang H. Discovery of 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives as potential antitumor agents inhibiting the programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death-ligand 1 interaction. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 46:116370. [PMID: 34481337 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) interaction by small-molecule inhibitors is emerging cancer immunotherapy. A series of novel 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their activities in vitro and vivo to find potent inhibitors of the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. Among them, compoundⅡ-14exhibited outstanding biochemical activity, with an IC50of 0.0380 μM. Importantly, compound II-14, with a TGI value of 35.74 %, had more potent efficacy in a mouse tumor model compared to that in the control group. Surprisingly, when compound II-14 combined with 5-FU in a mouse tumor model having a TGI value of 64.59 %, which showed potential anti-tumor synergistic effects. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated thatcompound II-14 activated the immune microenvironment by promoting the infiltration of CD4+ T cells into tumor tissues. These results indicate that compound II-14 is a promising lead compound for further development of small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lincheng Fang
- Center for Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Jiping Tian
- Center for Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Zhang
- Center for Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhang
- Center for Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yingqiao Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Zhibo Cheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Jinpei Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
| | - Huibin Zhang
- Center for Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
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