1
|
Noblejas-López MDM, Gandullo-Sánchez L, Galán-Moya EM, López-Rosa R, Tébar-García D, Nieto-Jiménez C, Gómez-Juárez M, Burgos M, Pandiella A, Ocaña A. Antitumoral Activity of a CDK9 PROTAC Compound in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5476. [PMID: 35628286 PMCID: PMC9146359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are a broad family of proteins involved in the cell cycle and transcriptional regulation. In this article, we explore the antitumoral activity of a novel proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) compound against CDK9. Breast cancer cell lines from different subtypes were used. Transcriptomic mapping of CDKs in breast cancer demonstrated that the expression of CDK9 predicted a detrimental outcome in basal-like tumors (HR = 1.51, CI = 1.08-2.11, p = 0.015) and, particularly, in the luminal B subtype with HER2+ expression (HR = 1.82, CI = 1.17-2.82, p = 0.0069). The novel CDK9 PROTAC, THAL-SNS-032, displayed a profound inhibitory activity in MCF7, T47D, and BT474 cells, with less effect in SKBR3, HCC1569, HCC1954, MDA-MB-231, HS578T, and BT549 cells. The three cell lines with HER2 overexpression and no presence of ER, SKBR3, HCC1569, and HCC1954 displayed an EC50 three times higher compared to ER-positive and dual ER/HER2-positive cell lines. BT474-derived trastuzumab-resistant cell lines displayed a particular sensitivity to THAL-SNS-032. Western blot analyses showed that THAL-SNS-032 caused a decrease in CDK9 levels in BT474, BT474-RH, and BT474-TDM1R cells, and a significant increase in apoptosis. Experiments in animals demonstrated an inverse therapeutic index of THAL-SNS-032, with doses in the nontherapeutic and toxic range. The identified toxicity was mainly due to an on-target off-tumor effect of the compound in the gastrointestinal epithelium. In summary, the potent and efficient antitumoral properties of the CDK9 PROTAC THAL-SNS-032 opens the possibility of using this type of compound in breast cancer only if specifically delivered to cancer cells, particularly in ER/HER2-positive and HER2-resistant tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María del Mar Noblejas-López
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Lucía Gandullo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC, IBSAL and CIBERONC, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (L.G.-S.); (A.P.)
| | - Eva M. Galán-Moya
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
- Faculty of Nursing, Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Raquel López-Rosa
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - David Tébar-García
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Cristina Nieto-Jiménez
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IdISSC) and CIBERONC, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Mónica Gómez-Juárez
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
| | - Miguel Burgos
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC, IBSAL and CIBERONC, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (L.G.-S.); (A.P.)
| | - Alberto Ocaña
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.d.M.N.-L.); (E.M.G.-M.); (R.L.-R.); (D.T.-G.); (M.G.-J.); (M.B.)
- Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
- Experimental Therapeutics Unit, Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IdISSC) and CIBERONC, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Borowczak J, Szczerbowski K, Ahmadi N, Szylberg Ł. CDK9 inhibitors in multiple myeloma: a review of progress and perspectives. Med Oncol 2022; 39:39. [PMID: 35092513 PMCID: PMC8800928 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-021-01636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Currently, multiple myeloma is not yet considered a curable disease. Despite the recent advances in therapy, the average patient lifespan is still unsatisfactory. Recently, CDK9 inhibitors emerged as a suitable agent to overcome resistance and prolong survival in patients with poor diagnoses. Downregulation of c-MYC, XIAP, Mcl-1 and restoration of p53 tumor-suppressive functions seems to play a key role in achieving clinical response. The applicability of the first generation of CDK9 inhibitors was limited due to relatively high toxicity, but the introduction of novel, highly selective drugs, seems to reduce the effects of off-target inhibition. CDK9 inhibitors were able to induce dose-dependent cytotoxicity in Doxorubicin-resistant, Lenalidomide-resistant and Bortezomib-resistant cell lines. They seem to be effective in cell lines with unfavorable prognostic factors, such as p53 deletion, t(4; 14) and t(14; 16). In preclinical trials, the application of CDK9 inhibitors led to tumor cells apoptosis, tumor growth inhibition and tumor mass reduction. Synergistic effects between CDK9 inhibitors and either Venetoclax, Bortezomib, Lenalidomide or Erlotinib have been proven and are awaiting verification in clinical trials. Although conclusions should be drawn with due care, obtained reports suggest that including CDK9 inhibitors into the current drug regimen may turn out to be beneficial, especially in poor prognosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jędrzej Borowczak
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Szczerbowski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Navid Ahmadi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Łukasz Szylberg
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Centre-Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zeng H, Yang H, Song Y, Fang D, Chen L, Zhao Z, Wang C, Xie S. Transcriptional inhibition by CDK7/9 inhibitor SNS-032 suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:1048. [PMID: 34741018 PMCID: PMC8571299 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04344-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is one of most lethal causes that confer a poor prognosis of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), whereas there is no available target drug for metastatic ESCC currently. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the transcriptional inhibition by CDK7/9 inhibitor SNS-032 is activity against ESCC. MTT and soft agar assays were performed to examine the influence of SNS-032 on ESCC growth in vitro. Tumor xenograft in nude mice was used to assess the antitumor activity of SNS-032 in vivo. The roles of SNS-032 in ESCC metastasis were conducted by wound healing and transwell assays in vitro, and by a lung and a popliteal lymph node metastasis model in vivo. The results showed that CDK7 and CDK9 were highly expressed in ESCC cells; SNS-032 effectively inhibited cellular viability, abrogated anchorage-independent growth, and potentiated the sensitivity to cisplatin in ESCC cells in vitro and in vivo. In addition, SNS-032 induced a mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis of ESCC cells by reducing Mcl-1 transcription. SNS-032 also potently abrogated the abilities of ESCC cell migration and invasion through transcriptional downregulation of MMP-1. Importantly, SNS-032 remarkably inhibited the growth of ESCC xenograft, increased the overall survival, as well as diminished the lung and lymph node metastasis in nude mice. Taken together, our findings highlight that the CDK7/9 inhibitor SNS-032 is a promising therapeutic agent, and warrants a clinical trial for its efficacy in ESCC patients, even those with metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huishan Zeng
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Huiru Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Yifan Song
- The Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immuno-Engineering, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, China
| | - Dong Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Liang Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immuno-Engineering, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Zhijun Zhao
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Luohe Medical College, 462000, Luohe, China
| | - Chaojie Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immuno-Engineering, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, China.
| | - Songqiang Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, N. Jinming Avenue, 475004, Kaifeng, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nardone V, Barbarino M, Angrisani A, Correale P, Pastina P, Cappabianca S, Reginelli A, Mutti L, Miracco C, Giannicola R, Giordano A, Pirtoli L. CDK4, CDK6/cyclin-D1 Complex Inhibition and Radiotherapy for Cancer Control: A Role for Autophagy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8391. [PMID: 34445095 PMCID: PMC8395054 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The expanding clinical application of CDK4- and CDK6-inhibiting drugs in the managements of breast cancer has raised a great interest in testing these drugs in other neoplasms. The potential of combining these drugs with other therapeutic approaches seems to be an interesting work-ground to explore. Even though a potential integration of CDK4 and CDK6 inhibitors with radiotherapy (RT) has been hypothesized, this kind of approach has not been sufficiently pursued, neither in preclinical nor in clinical studies. Similarly, the most recent discoveries focusing on autophagy, as a possible target pathway able to enhance the antitumor efficacy of CDK4 and CDK6 inhibitors is promising but needs more investigations. The aim of this review is to discuss the recent literature on the field in order to infer a rational combination strategy including cyclin-D1/CDK4-CDK6 inhibitors, RT, and/or other anticancer agents targeting G1-S phase cell cycle transition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Nardone
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.A.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Marcella Barbarino
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonio Angrisani
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.A.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Pierpaolo Correale
- Medical Oncology Unit, Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (P.C.); (R.G.)
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Pierpaolo Pastina
- Section of Radiation Oncology, Medical School, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Cappabianca
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.A.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Alfonso Reginelli
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.A.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
| | - Luciano Mutti
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Clelia Miracco
- Pathological Anatomy Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Science, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Rocco Giannicola
- Medical Oncology Unit, Grand Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy; (P.C.); (R.G.)
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.B.); (A.G.)
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Luigi Pirtoli
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (L.M.); (L.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kuchur OA, Kuzmina DO, Dukhinova MS, Shtil AA. The p53 Protein Family in the Response of Tumor Cells to Ionizing Radiation: Problem Development. Acta Naturae 2021; 13:65-76. [PMID: 34707898 PMCID: PMC8526179 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Survival mechanisms are activated in tumor cells in response to therapeutic ionizing radiation. This reduces a treatment's effectiveness. The p53, p63, and p73 proteins belonging to the family of proteins that regulate the numerous pathways of intracellular signal transduction play a key role in the development of radioresistance. This review analyzes the p53-dependent and p53-independent mechanisms involved in overcoming the resistance of tumor cells to radiation exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O. A. Kuchur
- ITMO University, Saint-Petersburg, 191002 Russia
| | | | | | - A. A. Shtil
- ITMO University, Saint-Petersburg, 191002 Russia
- Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, 115478 Russia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Faulhaber EM, Jost T, Symank J, Scheper J, Bürkel F, Fietkau R, Hecht M, Distel LV. Kinase Inhibitors of DNA-PK, ATM and ATR in Combination with Ionizing Radiation Can Increase Tumor Cell Death in HNSCC Cells While Sparing Normal Tissue Cells. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:925. [PMID: 34204447 PMCID: PMC8235750 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Kinase inhibitors (KI) targeting components of the DNA damage repair pathway are a promising new type of drug. Combining them with ionizing radiation therapy (IR), which is commonly used for treatment of head and neck tumors, could improve tumor control, but could also increase negative side effects on surrounding normal tissue. (2) The effect of KI of the DDR (ATMi: AZD0156; ATRi: VE-822, dual DNA-PKi/mTORi: CC-115) in combination with IR on HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC and healthy skin cells was analyzed. Cell death and cell cycle arrest were determined using flow cytometry. Additionally, clonogenic survival and migration were analyzed. (3) Studied HNSCC cell lines reacted differently to DDRi. An increase in cell death for all of the malignant cells could be observed when combining IR and KI. Healthy fibroblasts were not affected by simultaneous treatment. Migration was partially impaired. Influence on the cell cycle varied between the cell lines and inhibitors; (4) In conclusion, a combination of DDRi with IR could be feasible for patients with HNSCC. Side effects on healthy cells are expected to be limited to normal radiation-induced response. Formation of metastases could be decreased because cell migration is impaired partially. The treatment outcome for HPV-negative tumors tends to be improved by combined treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Faulhaber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tina Jost
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julia Symank
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julian Scheper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Felix Bürkel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Hecht
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Luitpold V. Distel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (E.-M.F.); (T.J.); (J.S.); (J.S.); (F.B.); (R.F.); (M.H.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi A, Safaroghli-Azar A, Shanaki M, Yousefi AM, Anjam Najmedini A, Bashash D. Inhibition of Cyclin-dependent Kinase (CDK) Decreased Survival of NB4 Leukemic Cells: Proposing a p53-Independent Sensitivity of Leukemic Cells to Multi-CDKs Inhibitor AT7519. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2021; 19:144-155. [PMID: 33680018 PMCID: PMC7758003 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2020.113170.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
An unbounded number of events exist beneath the intricacy of each particular hematologic malignancy, prompting the tumor cells into an unrestrained proliferation and invasion. Aberrant expression of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) is one of these events which disrupts the regulation of cell cycle and subsequently, results in cancer progression. In this study, we surveyed the repressive impact of multi-CDK inhibitor AT7519 on a panel of leukemia-derived cell lines. Our data underlined that AT7519 abated the survival of all tested cells; however, in an overview, the response rate of leukemic cells to the inhibitor was varied irrespective of p53 status. Notably, the less sensitivity of leukemia cells to AT7519 was found to be mediated partly by the compensatory activation of c-Myc oncogene which was confirmed by the induction of a superior cytotoxicity upon its suppression in less sensitive cell. The blockage of cell cycle, as announced by induction of sub-G1 arrest as well as reduced S phase, resulted in a significant decrease in survival of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)-derived NB4 cells, as the most sensitive cell line, either as monotherapy or in combination with arsenic trioxide. Anti-leukemic effects of the inhibitor were further verified by apoptosis analysis, where we discovered that AT7519 induced apoptosis via alteration of pro- and anti-apoptotic genes in NB4. All in all, this study proposed that AT7519 is a rewarding agent opposed to APL; however, additional examinations should be performed to determine the advantages of this inhibitor in clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atieh Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ava Safaroghli-Azar
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Shanaki
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Mohammad Yousefi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Anjam Najmedini
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ma H, Dean DC, Wei R, Hornicek FJ, Duan Z. Cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) is an emerging prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in osteosarcoma. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2021; 13:1759720X21995069. [PMID: 34104229 PMCID: PMC8164556 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x21995069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Overexpression of cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) is a well-known pathogenic feature of various malignancies and a sign of a more dismal prognosis. As relatively little is known about CDK7 in osteosarcoma, we elected to evaluate its expression, prognostic value, and function. Methods: We began by analyzing the publicly available data sets on CDK7 expression, including RNA sequencing data from the Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments on Osteosarcoma (TARGET-OS) and the Gene Expression database of Normal and Tumor tissues 2 (GENT2). The correlation between patient tissue CDK7 expression and their clinicopathological features and prognosis was assessed via immunohistochemical staining of a unique tissue microarray constructed from osteosarcoma specimens. Furthermore, we analyzed CDK7 expression in osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues by Western blot. CDK7-specific siRNA and a highly-selective CDK7 inhibitor, BS-181, were applied to determine the function of CDK7 on osteosarcoma cell growth and proliferation. In addition, the effect of CDK7 inhibition on clonogenicity was evaluated using a clonogenic assay, and a 3D cell culture model was used to mimic CDK7 effects in an in vivo environment. Results: Our results demonstrate that higher CDK7 expression significantly correlates with recurrence, metastasis, and shorter overall survival in osteosarcoma patients. Therapeutically, we show that CDK7 knockdown with siRNA or selective inhibition with BS-181 decreases proliferation and induces apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. Conclusion: This study supports CDK7 overexpression as an independent predictor of poor prognosis and promising therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hangzhan Ma
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dylan C Dean
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ran Wei
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Francis J Hornicek
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhenfeng Duan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 615 Charles E. Young Dr. South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Inhibitor of Multi-cyclin-dependent Kinases (AT7519) Reduced Survival of U937 Leukemic Cells and Enhanced Anti-leukemic Effect of Vincristine: A Highlight to CDK Inhibition Efficacy in Acute Leukemia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/ijcm.101366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The conservative character of the cell cycle outlined that any dysregulation in the regulatory components of this process in normal cells opens a gate toward neoplastic transformation. Objectives: Given the critical role of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) in cancer pathogenesis and based on their frequent aberrancy in human leukemia, the present study aimed at evaluating the suppressive effect of a multi-CDK inhibitor AT7519 on acute myeloid leukemia-derived U937 cells. Methods: To assess the anti-leukemic effects of the inhibitor on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, we used MTT and trypan blue assays. Flow cytometric analysis and q-RT-PCR were also applied to evaluate the impact of AT7519 on cell cycle and apoptosis. Results: The results suggested that suppression of CDK in U937 cells hampered the proliferation of leukemic cells through a G2/M arrest mediated by p21 gene. Additionally, the anti-survival impact of AT7519 on these cells was shown to be along with the apoptosis initiation not only through the increment of pro-apoptotic gene expression but also through diminishing the mRNA levels of both Pin1 and Survivin. Notably, the potent anti-leukemic property of this agent has become more prominent when we found that the blockage of CDKs in AML cells could synergize with the cytotoxic effect of vincristine (VCR). To the best of our knowledge, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of resistance to AT7519 and we proposed that the effectiveness of this agent was partially attenuated through either c-Myc or autophagy activation in U937 cells. Conclusions: This study suggests that the pharmacological targeting of CDKs could probably unwind the complexity of therapeutic obstacles on the way of acute leukemia, either in the context of mono- or combined-modal strategy.
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhang X, Yang L, Chen W, Kong M. Identification of Potential Hub Genes and Therapeutic Drugs in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis. Oncol Res Treat 2020; 43:656-671. [PMID: 33032291 DOI: 10.1159/000510534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is closely linked to asbestos exposure and is an extremely aggressive tumor with poor prognosis. OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to elucidate hub genes and potential drugs in MPM by integrated bioinformatics analysis. METHODS GSE42977 was download from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database; the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with adj.p value <0.05 and |logFC| ≥2 were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed by DAVID database. The STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network, and modules analysis and hub genes acquisition were performed by Cytoscape. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was used to assess the impact of hub genes on the prognosis of MPM patients. The Drug-Gene Interaction database (DGIdb) was used to select the related drugs. RESULTS A total of 169 upregulated and 70 downregulated DEGs were identified. These DEGs are enriched in the pathway of extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and PPAR signaling pathway. Finally, 10 hub genes (CDC20, CDK1, UBE2C, TOP2A, CCNB2, NUSAP1, KIF20A, AURKA, CEP55, and ASPM) were identified, which are considered to be closely related to the poor prognosis of MPM. In addition, 119 related drugs that may have a therapeutic effect on MPM were filtered out. CONCLUSION These discovered genes and small-molecule drugs provide some new ideas for further research on MPM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Liu Yang
- School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Anaesthetic Operating Room, Provincial Otolaryngology Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Western Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Ming Kong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Provincial Otolaryngology Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Western Hospital, Jinan, China,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zabihi M, Safaroghli-Azar A, Gharehbaghian A, Allahbakhshian Farsani M, Bashash D. CDK Blockade Using AT7519 Suppresses Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cell Survival through the Inhibition of Autophagy and Intensifies the Anti-leukemic Effect of Arsenic Trioxide. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2020; 18:119-131. [PMID: 32802093 PMCID: PMC7393062 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2019.112560.13827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The strong storyline behind the critical role of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor proteins in natural defense against malignant transformation not only represents a heroic perspective for these proteins, but also provides a bright future for the application of small molecule inhibitors of CDKs in the novel cancer treatment strategies. The results of the present study revealed that the inhibition of CDKs using pan-CDK inhibitor AT7519, as revealed by the induction of G1 cell cycle arrest as well as the reduction of cyclins expression, resulted in decreased survival in acute myeloid leukemia (AML)-derived KG-1 cells, either in the context of single agent or in combination with arsenic trioxide (ATO). Apart from alterations in the expression of proliferation and apoptotic genes, the anti-survival property of AT7519 was coupled with the inhibition of autophagy-related genes. Notably, we found that the blockage of autophagy system in KG-1 cells resulted in a superior cytotoxic effect, introducing autophagy as a probable suppressor of cell death. As far as we are aware, to date, no study has reported the contributory mechanisms correlated with the less sensitivity of acute leukemia cells to AT7519 and our study suggested for the first time that the activation of both PI3K and c-Myc signaling pathways could overshadow, at least partly, the efficacy of this agent in KG-1 cells. Overall, due to the pharmacologic safety of AT7519, our study proposed this inhibitor as a promising agent for the treatment of AML either as a single agent or in a combined-modal strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Zabihi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ava Safaroghli-Azar
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Gharehbaghian
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Allahbakhshian Farsani
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wei X, Nian J, Zheng J, He Y, Zeng M. Inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases by AT7519 enhances nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell response to chemotherapy. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2020; 85:949-957. [PMID: 32279103 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-020-04068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The poor outcomes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) necessitate new treatments. AT7519 is a potent inhibitor of several cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and is currently in the early phase of clinical development for cancer treatment. The potent anti-cancer activities of AT7519 have been reported in various cancers, but not in NPC. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effects of AT7519 in NPC were systematically analyzed using cell culture assays and xenograft mouse models. The effects of AT7519 on molecules involved in mRNA transcription were examined. RESULTS AT7519, at a nanomolar concentration, significantly inhibits growth via arresting cells at G2/M phase, and induces apoptosis in NPC cells regardless of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and cellular origin. It also inhibits growth of a subpopulation of cells with highly proliferative and invasive features. Importantly, AT7519 acts synergistically with cisplatin and is effective against chemo-resistant NPC cells. Mechanistically, AT7519 inhibits phosphorylation of Rb, suggesting the inhibition of CDK2 in NPC. It also decreases N-myc level and RNA polymerase II phosphorylation, and inhibits transcription. Consistent with the in vitro findings, we demonstrate that AT7519 is effective as a single agent in two independent NPC xenograft mouse models. The combination of ATP7519 and cisplatin results in greater efficacy than cisplatin alone in inhibiting NPC tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS Our work is the first to report anti-NPC activities of AT7519. Our preclinical evidence suggests that AT7519 is a useful addition to overcome NPC chemo-resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wei
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Jiabin Nian
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, China
| | - Yangli He
- Medical Center, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), No.19, Xinhua Road, Xiuying Distric, Haikou, 570311, Hainan Province, China
| | - Min Zeng
- Medical Center, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), No.19, Xinhua Road, Xiuying Distric, Haikou, 570311, Hainan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang J, Lin H, Jiang H, Jiang H, Xie T, Wang B, Huang X, Lin J, Xu A, Li R, Zhang J, Yuan Y. A key genomic signature associated with lymphovascular invasion in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:266. [PMID: 32228488 PMCID: PMC7106876 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-06728-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lymphovascular invasion (LOI), a key pathological feature of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), is predictive of poor survival; however, the associated clinical characteristics and underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Methods We performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis to construct gene co-expression networks and investigate the relationship between key modules and the LOI clinical phenotype. Functional enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses were performed with differentially expressed genes. A protein–protein interaction network was constructed using Cytoscape, and module analysis was performed using MCODE. Prognostic value, expression analysis, and survival analysis were conducted using hub genes; GEPIA and the Human Protein Atlas database were used to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels of hub genes, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to establish a prognostic risk formula and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) were used to evaluate prediction efficiency. Finally, potential small molecular agents that could target LOI were identified with DrugBank. Results Ten co-expression modules in two key modules (turquoise and pink) associated with LOI were identified. Functional enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that turquoise and pink modules played significant roles in HNSCC progression. Seven hub genes (CNFN, KIF18B, KIF23, PRC1, CCNA2, DEPDC1, and TTK) in the two modules were identified and validated by survival and expression analyses, and the following prognostic risk formula was established: [risk score = EXPDEPDC1 * 0.32636 + EXPCNFN * (− 0.07544)]. The low-risk group showed better overall survival than the high-risk group (P < 0.0001), and the AUCs for 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival were 0.582, 0.634, and 0.636, respectively. Eight small molecular agents, namely XL844, AT7519, AT9283, alvocidib, nelarabine, benzamidine, L-glutamine, and zinc, were identified as novel candidates for controlling LOI in HNSCC (P < 0.05). Conclusions The two-mRNA signature (CNFN and DEPDC1) could serve as an independent biomarker to predict LOI risk and provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying LOI in HNSCC. In addition, the small molecular agents appear promising for LOI treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Huaming Lin
- The First Tumor Department, Maoming People's Hospital, Maoming, 525000, P. R. China
| | - Huali Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascularology, Tungwah Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Dongguan, 523000, P. R. China
| | - Hualong Jiang
- Department of Urology, Tungwah Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Dongguan, 523000, P. R. China
| | - Tao Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Baiyao Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoting Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Anan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China
| | - Jiexia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, P. R. China.
| | - Yawei Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, 510095, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|