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Whittaker MK, Bendzunas GN, Shirani M, LeClair TJ, Shebl B, Dill TC, Coffino P, Simon SM, Kennedy EJ. Targeted Degradation of Protein Kinase A via a Stapled Peptide PROTAC. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:1888-1895. [PMID: 39137166 PMCID: PMC11420944 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are bifunctional molecules that bind and recruit an E3 ubiquitin ligase to a targeted protein of interest, often through the utilization of a small molecule inhibitor. To expand the possible range of kinase targets that can be degraded by PROTACs, we sought to develop a PROTAC utilizing a hydrocarbon-stapled peptide as the targeting agent to bind the surface of a target protein of interest. In this study, we describe the development of a proteolysis-targeting chimera, dubbed Stapled Inhibitor Peptide - PROTAC or StIP-TAC, linking a hydrocarbon-stapled peptide with an E3 ligase ligand for targeted degradation of Protein Kinase A (PKA). This StIP-TAC molecule stimulated E3-mediated protein degradation of PKA, and this effect could be reversed by the addition of the proteasomal inhibitor MG-132. Further, StIP-TAC treatment led to a significant reduction in PKA substrate phosphorylation. Since many protein targets of interest lack structural features that make them amenable to small molecule targeting, development of StIP-TACs may broaden the potential range of protein targets using a PROTAC-mediated proteasomal degradation approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K Whittaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - George N Bendzunas
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Mahsa Shirani
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Timothy J LeClair
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Bassem Shebl
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Taylor C Dill
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Philip Coffino
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Sanford M Simon
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Eileen J Kennedy
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
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2
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Song Y, Dong QQ, Ni YK, Xu XL, Chen CX, Chen W. Nano-Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (Nano-PROTACs) in Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:5739-5761. [PMID: 38882545 PMCID: PMC11180470 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448684] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules that have the capability to induce specific protein degradation. While playing a revolutionary role in effectively degrading the protein of interest (POI), PROTACs encounter certain limitations that impede their clinical translation. These limitations encompass off-target effects, inadequate cell membrane permeability, and the hook effect. The advent of nanotechnology presents a promising avenue to surmount the challenges associated with conventional PROTACs. The utilization of nano-proteolysis targeting chimeras (nano-PROTACs) holds the potential to enhance specific tissue accumulation, augment membrane permeability, and enable controlled release. Consequently, this approach has the capacity to significantly enhance the controllable degradation of target proteins. Additionally, they enable a synergistic effect by combining with other therapeutic strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes the structural basis, advantages, and limitations of PROTACs. Furthermore, it highlights the latest advancements in nanosystems engineered for delivering PROTACs, as well as the development of nano-sized PROTACs employing nanocarriers as linkers. Moreover, it delves into the underlying principles of nanotechnology tailored specifically for PROTACs, alongside the current prospects of clinical research. In conclusion, the integration of nanotechnology into PROTACs harbors vast potential in enhancing the anti-tumor treatment response and expediting clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Song
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing-Qing Dong
- ICU, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ke Ni
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ling Xu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao-Xiang Chen
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Chen
- ICU, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
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3
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Wei H, Wang Z, Huang Y, Gao L, Wang W, Liu S, Sun YL, Liu H, Weng Y, Fan HY, Zhang M. DCAF2 regulates the proliferation and differentiation of mouse progenitor spermatogonia by targeting p21 and thymine DNA glycosylase. Cell Prolif 2024:e13676. [PMID: 38837535 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
DDB1-Cullin-4-associated factor-2 (DCAF2, also known as DTL or CDT2), a conserved substrate recognition protein of Cullin-RING E3 ligase 4 (CRL4), recognizes and degrades several substrate proteins during the S phase to maintain cell cycle progression and genome stability. Dcaf2 mainly expressed in germ cells of human and mouse. Our study found that Dcaf2 was expressed in mouse spermatogonia and spermatocyte. The depletion of Dcaf2 in germ cells by crossing Dcaf2fl/fl mice with stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8(Stra8)-Cre mice caused a reduction in progenitor spermatogonia and differentiating spermatogonia, eventually leading to the failure of meiosis initiation and male infertility. Further studies showed that depletion of Dcaf2 in germ cells caused abnormal accumulation of the substrate proteins, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (p21) and thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG), decreasing of cell proliferation, increasing of DNA damage and apoptosis. Overexpression of p21 or TDG attenuates proliferation and increases DNA damage and apoptosis in GC-1 cells, which is exacerbated by co-overexpression of p21 and TDG. The findings indicate that DCAF2 maintains the proliferation and differentiation of progenitor spermatogonia by targeting the substrate proteins p21 and TDG during the S phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Wei
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhijuan Wang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yating Huang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Longwei Gao
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Li Sun
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiyu Liu
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yashuang Weng
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, The second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Huang X, Wu F, Ye J, Wang L, Wang X, Li X, He G. Expanding the horizons of targeted protein degradation: A non-small molecule perspective. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:2402-2427. [PMID: 38828146 PMCID: PMC11143490 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) represented by proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) marks a significant stride in drug discovery. A plethora of innovative technologies inspired by PROTAC have not only revolutionized the landscape of TPD but have the potential to unlock functionalities beyond degradation. Non-small-molecule-based approaches play an irreplaceable role in this field. A wide variety of agents spanning a broad chemical spectrum, including peptides, nucleic acids, antibodies, and even vaccines, which not only prove instrumental in overcoming the constraints of conventional small molecule entities but also provided rapidly renewing paradigms. Herein we summarize the burgeoning non-small molecule technological platforms inspired by PROTACs, including three major trajectories, to provide insights for the design strategies based on novel paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Huang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fengbo Wu
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lian Wang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Gu He
- Department of Pharmacy and Department of Dermatology & Venerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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5
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Huang QX, Fan DM, Zheng ZZ, Ran T, Bai A, Xiao RQ, Hu GS, Liu W. Peptide Inhibitor Targeting the Extraterminal Domain in BRD4 Potently Suppresses Breast Cancer Both In Vitro and In Vivo. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6658-6672. [PMID: 38569135 PMCID: PMC11056977 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BRD4 is associated with a variety of human diseases, including breast cancer. The crucial roles of amino-terminal bromodomains (BDs) of BRD4 in binding with acetylated histones to regulate oncogene expression make them promising drug targets. However, adverse events impede the development of the BD inhibitors. BRD4 adopts an extraterminal (ET) domain, which recruits proteins to drive oncogene expression. We discovered a peptide inhibitor PiET targeting the ET domain to disrupt BRD4/JMJD6 interaction, a protein complex critical in oncogene expression and breast cancer. The cell-permeable form of PiET, TAT-PiET, and PROTAC-modified TAT-PiET, TAT-PiET-PROTAC, potently inhibits the expression of BRD4/JMJD6 target genes and breast cancer cell growth. Combination therapy with TAT-PiET/TAT-PiET-PROTAC and JQ1, iJMJD6, or Fulvestrant exhibits synergistic effects. TAT-PiET or TAT-PiET-PROTAC treatment overcomes endocrine therapy resistance in ERα-positive breast cancer cells. Taken together, we demonstrated that targeting the ET domain is effective in suppressing breast cancer, providing a therapeutic avenue in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-xuan Huang
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Da-meng Fan
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Zao-zao Zheng
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Ting Ran
- Bioland
Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health—Guangdong
Laboratory), KaiYuan
Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510530, China
| | - Ao Bai
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Rong-quan Xiao
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Guo-sheng Hu
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Wen Liu
- State
Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Fujian
Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
- Xiang
An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty
of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang’an South Road, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
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6
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Liang X, Ren H, Han F, Liang R, Zhao J, Liu H. The new direction of drug development: Degradation of undruggable targets through targeting chimera technology. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:632-685. [PMID: 37983964 DOI: 10.1002/med.21992] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Imbalances in protein and noncoding RNA levels in vivo lead to the occurrence of many diseases. In addition to the use of small molecule inhibitors and agonists to restore these imbalances, recently emerged targeted degradation technologies provide a new direction for disease treatment. Targeted degradation technology directly degrades target proteins or RNA by utilizing the inherent degradation pathways, thereby eliminating the functions of pathogenic proteins (or RNA) to treat diseases. Compared with traditional therapies, targeted degradation technology which avoids the principle of traditional inhibitor occupation drive, has higher efficiency and selectivity, and widely expands the range of drug targets. It is one of the most promising and hottest areas for future drug development. Herein, we systematically introduced the in vivo degradation systems applied to degrader design: ubiquitin-proteasome system, lysosomal degradation system, and RNA degradation system. We summarized the development progress, structural characteristics, and limitations of novel chimeric design technologies based on different degradation systems. In addition, due to the lack of clear ligand-binding pockets, about 80% of disease-associated proteins cannot be effectively intervened with through traditional therapies. We deeply elucidated how to use targeted degradation technology to discover and design molecules for representative undruggable targets including transcription factors, small GTPases, and phosphatases. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of targeted degradation technology-related research advances and a new guidance for the chimeric design of undruggable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuewu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hairu Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengyang Han
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Renwen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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Lv S, Zhang J, Peng X, Liu H, Liu Y, Wei F. Ubiquitin signaling in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1304639. [PMID: 38174069 PMCID: PMC10761520 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1304639] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal malignant tumor of the digestive system, characterized by rapid progression and being prone to metastasis. Few effective treatment options are available for PDAC, and its 5-year survival rate is less than 9%. Many cell biological and signaling events are involved in the development of PDAC, among which protein post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as ubiquitination, play crucial roles. Catalyzed mostly by a three-enzyme cascade, ubiquitination induces changes in protein activity mainly by altering their stability in PDAC. Due to their role in substrate recognition, E3 ubiquitin ligases (E3s) dictate the outcome of the modification. Ubiquitination can be reversed by deubiquitylases (DUBs), which, in return, modified proteins to their native form. Dysregulation of E3s or DUBs that disrupt protein homeostasis is involved in PDAC. Moreover, the ubiquitination system has been exploited to develop therapeutic strategies, such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs). In this review, we summarize recent progress in our understanding of the role of ubiquitination in the development of PDAC and offer perspectives in the design of new therapies against this highly challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengnan Lv
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xinyu Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Wang H, Zhou R, Xu F, Yang K, Zheng L, Zhao P, Shi G, Dai L, Xu C, Yu L, Li Z, Wang J, Wang J. Beyond canonical PROTAC: biological targeted protein degradation (bioTPD). Biomater Res 2023; 27:72. [PMID: 37480049 PMCID: PMC10362593 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-023-00385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is an emerging therapeutic strategy with the potential to modulate disease-associated proteins that have previously been considered undruggable, by employing the host destruction machinery. The exploration and discovery of cellular degradation pathways, including but not limited to proteasomes and lysosome pathways as well as their degraders, is an area of active research. Since the concept of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) was introduced in 2001, the paradigm of TPD has been greatly expanded and moved from academia to industry for clinical translation, with small-molecule TPD being particularly represented. As an indispensable part of TPD, biological TPD (bioTPD) technologies including peptide-, fusion protein-, antibody-, nucleic acid-based bioTPD and others have also emerged and undergone significant advancement in recent years, demonstrating unique and promising activities beyond those of conventional small-molecule TPD. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in bioTPD technologies, summarize their compositional features and potential applications, and briefly discuss their drawbacks. Moreover, we present some strategies to improve the delivery efficacy of bioTPD, addressing their challenges in further clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Runhua Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, P. R. China
| | - Fushan Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Kongjun Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Liuhai Zheng
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Pan Zhao
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Guangwei Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, P. R. China
| | - Lingyun Dai
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, P. R. China
| | - Le Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, P. R. China.
| | - Zhijie Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Jianhong Wang
- Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Centre for Respirology, The Second Clinical Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong, P. R. China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, P. R. China.
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Danazumi AU, Ishmam IT, Idris S, Izert MA, Balogun EO, Górna MW. Targeted protein degradation might present a novel therapeutic approach in the fight against African trypanosomiasis. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 186:106451. [PMID: 37088149 PMCID: PMC11032742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
African trypanosomiasis (AT) is a hemoparasitic disease caused by infection with African trypanosomes and it is prevalent in many sub-Saharan African countries, affecting both humans and domestic animals. The disease is transmitted mostly by haematophagous insects of the genus Glossina while taking blood meal, in the process spreading the parasites from an infected animal to an uninfected animal. The disease is fatal if untreated, and the available drugs are generally ineffective and resulting in toxicities. Therefore, it is still pertinent to explore novel methods and targets for drug discovery. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) present a new strategy for development of therapeutic molecules that mimic cellular proteasomal-mediated protein degradation to target proteins involved in different disease types. PROTACs have been used to degrade proteins involved in various cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, and immune disorders with remarkable success. Here, we highlight the problems associated with the current treatments for AT, discuss the concept of PROTACs and associated targeted protein degradation (TPD) approaches, and provide some insights on the future potential for the use of these emerging technologies (PROTACs and TPD) for the development of new generation of anti-Trypanosoma drugs and the first "TrypPROTACs".
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Usman Danazumi
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland; Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | - Salisu Idris
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Matylda Anna Izert
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Emmanuel Oluwadare Balogun
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria; African Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
| | - Maria Wiktoria Górna
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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10
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Tsujimura H, Naganuma M, Ohoka N, Inoue T, Naito M, Tsuji G, Demizu Y. Development of DNA Aptamer-Based PROTACs That Degrade the Estrogen Receptor. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:827-832. [PMID: 37312841 PMCID: PMC10258903 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD), using chimeric molecules such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), has attracted attention as a strategy for selective degradation of intracellular proteins by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). However, it is often difficult to develop such degraders due to the absence of appropriate ligands for target proteins. In targeting proteins for degradation, the application of nucleic acid aptamers is considered to be effective because these can be explored using systematic evolution of ligand by exponential enrichment (SELEX) methods. In this study, we constructed chimeric molecules in which nucleic acid aptamers capable of binding to the estrogen receptor α (ERα) and E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands were linked via a linker. ERα aptamer-based PROTACs were found to degrade ERα via the UPS. These findings represent the development of novel aptamer-based PROTACs that target intracellular proteins and are potentially applicable to other proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruna Tsujimura
- Division
of Organic Chemistry, National Institute
of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
- Graduate
School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama
City University, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan
| | - Miyako Naganuma
- Division
of Organic Chemistry, National Institute
of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
- Graduate
School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama
City University, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan
| | - Nobumichi Ohoka
- Division
of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
| | - Takao Inoue
- Division
of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
| | - Mikihiko Naito
- Laboratory
of Targeted Protein Degradation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Genichiro Tsuji
- Division
of Organic Chemistry, National Institute
of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
| | - Yosuke Demizu
- Division
of Organic Chemistry, National Institute
of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
- Graduate
School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama
City University, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan
- Graduate
School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division
of Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
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11
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Zou Q, Liu M, Liu K, Zhang Y, North BJ, Wang B. E3 ubiquitin ligases in cancer stem cells: key regulators of cancer hallmarks and novel therapeutic opportunities. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2023; 46:545-570. [PMID: 36745329 PMCID: PMC10910623 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00777-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human malignancies are composed of heterogeneous subpopulations of cancer cells with phenotypic and functional diversity. Among them, a unique subset of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has both the capacity for self-renewal and the potential to differentiate and contribute to multiple tumor properties. As such, CSCs are promising cellular targets for effective cancer therapy. At the molecular level, hyper-activation of multiple stemness regulatory signaling pathways and downstream transcription factors play critical roles in controlling CSCs establishment and maintenance. To regulate CSC properties, these stemness pathways are controlled by post-translational modifications including, but not limited to phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, and ubiquitination. CONCLUSION In this review, we focus on E3 ubiquitin ligases and their roles and mechanisms in regulating essential hallmarks of CSCs, such as self-renewal, invasion and metastasis, metabolic reprogramming, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. Moreover, we discuss emerging therapeutic approaches to eliminate CSCs through targeting E3 ubiquitin ligases by chemical inhibitors and proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTACs) which are currently under development at the discovery, preclinical, and clinical stages. Several outstanding issues such as roles for E3 ubiquitin ligases in heterogeneity and phenotypical/functional evolution of CSCs remain to be studied under pathologically and clinically relevant conditions. With the rapid application of functional genomic and proteomic approaches at single cell, spatiotemporal, and even single molecule levels, we anticipate that more specific and precise functions of E3 ubiquitin ligases will be delineated in dictating CSC properties. Rational design and proper translation of these mechanistic understandings may lead to novel therapeutic modalities for cancer procession medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Tumor Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University Medical School, Chongqing, 400030, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 10 Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 10 Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University Medical School, Chongqing, 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Kewei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 10 Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Tumor Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University Medical School, Chongqing, 400030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Brian J North
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA.
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 10 Changjiang Branch Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology of Ministry of Education of China, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, People's Republic of China.
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Li Y, Jia Y, Wang X, Shang H, Tian Y. Protein-Targeted Degradation Agents Based on Natural Products. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:ph16010046. [PMID: 36678543 PMCID: PMC9865760 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products are an important source of drug lead compounds, and natural products with significant biological activity are constantly being discovered and used in clinical practice. At present, natural products play an important role in the targeted therapy of cancer, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, nervous system diseases, and autoimmune diseases. Meanwhile, in recent years, the rise of protein-targeted degradation technologies, such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues, has provided a new solution for drug resistance caused by clinical molecular-targeting drugs. It is noteworthy that natural products and their derivatives, as important components of PROTACs and molecular glues, play an important role in the development of protein-targeting drugs. Hence, this review summarized the protein-targeted degradation agents based on natural products, such as PROTACs and molecular glues. More natural products with the potential to be used in the development of PROTACs and molecular glues as targeted protein degradation agents are still being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yu Tian
- Correspondence: (H.S.); (Y.T.)
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13
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Cugusi S, Bajpe PK, Mitter R, Patel H, Stewart A, Svejstrup JQ. An Important Role for RPRD1B in the Heat Shock Response. Mol Cell Biol 2022; 42:e0017322. [PMID: 36121223 PMCID: PMC9583720 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00173-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
During the heat shock response (HSR), heat shock factor (HSF1 in mammals) binds to target gene promoters, resulting in increased expression of heat shock proteins that help maintain protein homeostasis and ensure cell survival. Besides HSF1, only a relatively few transcription factors with a specific role in ensuring correctly regulated gene expression during the HSR have been described. Here, we use proteomic and genomic (CRISPR) screening to identify a role for RPRD1B in the response to heat shock. Indeed, cells depleted for RPRD1B are heat shock sensitive and show decreased expression of key heat shock proteins (HSPs). These results add to our understanding of the connection between basic gene expression mechanisms and the HSR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cugusi
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Prashanth Kumar Bajpe
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Mitter
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Harshil Patel
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aengus Stewart
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesper Q. Svejstrup
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Cao Y, Ning B, Tian Y, Lan T, Chu Y, Ren F, Wang Y, Meng Q, Li J, Jia B, Chang Z. CREPT Disarms the Inhibitory Activity of HDAC1 on Oncogene Expression to Promote Tumorigenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194797. [PMID: 36230720 PMCID: PMC9562184 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary It has been proposed that highly expressed HDAC1 (histone deacetylases 1) removes the acetyl group from the histones at the promoter regions of tumor suppressor genes to block their expression in tumors. We here revealed the underlying mechanism that HDAC1 differentially regulates the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressors. In detail, we found that HDAC1 is unable to occupy the promoters of oncogenes but maintains its occupancy with the tumor suppressors due to its interaction with an oncoprotein, CREPT (cell cycle-related and expression-elevated protein in tumor). Abstract Histone deacetylases 1 (HDAC1), an enzyme that functions to remove acetyl molecules from ε-NH3 groups of lysine in histones, eliminates the histone acetylation at the promoter regions of tumor suppressor genes to block their expression during tumorigenesis. However, it remains unclear why HDAC1 fails to impair oncogene expression. Here we report that HDAC1 is unable to occupy at the promoters of oncogenes but maintains its occupancy with the tumor suppressors due to its interaction with CREPT (cell cycle-related and expression-elevated protein in tumor, also named RPRD1B), an oncoprotein highly expressed in tumors. We observed that CREPT competed with HDAC1 for binding to oncogene (such as CCND1, CLDN1, VEGFA, PPARD and BMP4) promoters but not the tumor suppressor gene (such as p21 and p27) promoters by a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) qPCR experiment. Using immunoprecipitation experiments, we deciphered that CREPT specifically occupied at the oncogene promoter via TCF4, a transcription factor activated by Wnt signaling. In addition, we performed a real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis on cells that stably over-expressed CREPT and/or HDAC1, and we propose that HDAC1 inhibits CREPT to activate oncogene expression under Wnt signaling activation. Our findings revealed that HDAC1 functions differentially on tumor suppressors and oncogenes due to its interaction with the oncoprotein CREPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Bobin Ning
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Ye Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Tingwei Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yunxiang Chu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Emergency General Hospital, Beijing 100028, China
| | - Fangli Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yinyin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qingyu Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Jun Li
- Qingda Cell Biotech Inc., Beijing 100084, China
| | - Baoqing Jia
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (Z.C.); Tel.: +86-(10)-62773624 (B.J.); +86-(10)-62785076 (Z.C.)
| | - Zhijie Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (Z.C.); Tel.: +86-(10)-62773624 (B.J.); +86-(10)-62785076 (Z.C.)
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15
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Xie Z, Li J, Hao X, Xu L. Purification and Analysis of the CREPT Antibody from Mouse Ascites. Appl Bionics Biomech 2022; 2022:8776565. [PMID: 36106137 PMCID: PMC9467789 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8776565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods Cells were cultivated properly to obtain 3E10 CREPT monoclonal antibody cells in the logarithmic growth stage. Monoclonal antibody cells were injected into the abdominal cavity of sensitized mice. The flowing ascites were observed for 7-15 days. The antibody protein was obtained by collection, filtration, dilution, loading, and chromatography. Furthermore, its binding force was detected by SDS-PAGE and Western blot techniques. Results The antibody protein was successfully obtained with a purity of 1895 μg/mL with high liveness. Conclusion This study establishes a one-step purification method for obtaining monoclonal antibody with high liveness and purity for CREPT ascites antibody. This method is simple to perform and lays a foundation for the preparation and purification of humanized monoclonal antibodies in the future. In addition, it provides a basis for further research to investigate how CREPT affects the occurrence and development of different tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Xie
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570102, Hainan, China
| | - Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Xinbao Hao
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570102, Hainan, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570102, Hainan, 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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17
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Ma S, Ji J, Tong Y, Zhu Y, Dou J, Zhang X, Xu S, Zhu T, Xu X, You Q, Jiang Z. Non-small molecule PROTACs (NSM-PROTACs): Protein degradation kaleidoscope. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2990-3005. [PMID: 35865099 PMCID: PMC9293674 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology has been rapidly developed since its birth in 2001, attracting rapidly growing attention of scientific institutes and pharmaceutical companies. At present, a variety of small molecule PROTACs have entered the clinical trial. However, as small molecule PROTACs flourish, non-small molecule PROTACs (NSM-PROTACs) such as peptide PROTACs, nucleic acid PROTACs and antibody PROTACs have also advanced considerably over recent years, exhibiting the unique characters beyond the small molecule PROTACs. Here, we briefly introduce the types of NSM-PROTACs, describe the advantages of NSM-PROTACs, and summarize the development of NSM-PROTACs so far in detail. We hope this article could not only provide useful insights into NSM-PROTACs, but also expand the research interest of NSM-PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jianai Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuxuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Junwei Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shicheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianbao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiaoli Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qidong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhengyu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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18
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Li X, Pu W, Zheng Q, Ai M, Chen S, Peng Y. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:99. [PMID: 35410300 PMCID: PMC8996410 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractProteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are engineered techniques for targeted protein degradation. A bifunctional PROTAC molecule with two covalently-linked ligands recruits target protein and E3 ubiquitin ligase together to trigger proteasomal degradation of target protein by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. PROTAC has emerged as a promising approach for targeted therapy in various diseases, particularly in cancers. In this review, we introduce the principle and development of PROTAC technology, as well as the advantages of PROTACs over traditional anti-cancer therapies. Moreover, we summarize the application of PROTACs in targeting critical oncoproteins, provide the guidelines for the molecular design of PROTACs and discuss the challenges in the targeted degradation by PROTACs.
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19
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Proteolysis-targeting chimeras: A promising technique in cancer therapy for gaining insights into tumor development. Cancer Lett 2022; 539:215716. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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20
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Casalino L, Talotta F, Cimmino A, Verde P. The Fra-1/AP-1 Oncoprotein: From the "Undruggable" Transcription Factor to Therapeutic Targeting. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061480. [PMID: 35326630 PMCID: PMC8946526 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic and epigenetic changes affecting transcription factors, coactivators, and chromatin modifiers are key determinants of the hallmarks of cancer. The acquired dependence on oncogenic transcriptional regulators, representing a major determinant of cancer cell vulnerability, points to transcription factors as ideal therapeutic targets. However, given the unavailability of catalytic activities or binding pockets for small-molecule inhibitors, transcription factors are generally regarded as undruggable proteins. Among components of the AP-1 complex, the FOS-family transcription factor Fra-1, encoded by FOSL1, has emerged as a prominent therapeutic target. Fra-1 is overexpressed in most solid tumors, in response to the BRAF-MAPK, Wnt-beta-catenin, Hippo-YAP, IL-6-Stat3, and other major oncogenic pathways. In vitro functional analyses, validated in onco-mouse models and corroborated by prognostic correlations, show that Fra-1-containing dimers control tumor growth and disease progression. Fra-1 participates in key mechanisms of cancer cell invasion, Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition, and metastatic spreading, by driving the expression of EMT-inducing transcription factors, cytokines, and microRNAs. Here we survey various strategies aimed at inhibiting tumor growth, metastatic dissemination, and drug resistance by interfering with Fra-1 expression, stability, and transcriptional activity. We summarize several tools aimed at the design and tumor-specific delivery of Fra-1/AP-1-specific drugs. Along with RNA-based therapeutics targeting the FOSL1 gene, its mRNA, or cognate regulatory circRNAs, we will examine the exploitation of blocking peptides, small molecule inhibitors, and innovative Fra-1 protein degraders. We also consider the possible caveats concerning Fra-1 inhibition in specific therapeutic contexts. Finally, we discuss a recent suicide gene therapy-based approach, aimed at selectively killing the Fra-1-overexpressing neoplastic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Casalino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (P.V.)
| | | | - Amelia Cimmino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Verde
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, Consiglio Nazionale dele Ricerche (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (P.V.)
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Liu L, Shi L, Wang Z, Zeng J, Wang Y, Xiao H, Zhu Y. Targeting Oncoproteins for Degradation by Small Molecule-Based Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) in Sex Hormone-Dependent Cancers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:839857. [PMID: 35370971 PMCID: PMC8971670 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.839857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormone-dependent cancers, including breast, ovary, and prostate cancer, contribute to the high number of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Steroid hormones promote tumor occurrence, development, and metastasis by acting on receptors, such as estrogen receptors (ERs), androgen receptors (ARs), and estrogen-related receptors (ERRs). Therefore, endocrine therapy targeting ERs, ARs, and ERRs represents the potential and pivotal therapeutic strategy in sex hormone-dependent cancers. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are a novel strategy that can harness the potential of the endogenous ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) to target and degrade specific proteins, rather than simply inhibiting the activity of target proteins. Small molecule PROTACs degrade a variety of proteins in cells, mice, and humans and are an emerging approach for novel drug development. PROTACs targeting ARs, ERs, ERRs, and other proteins in sex hormone-dependent cancers have been reported and may overcome the problem of resistance to existing endocrine therapy and receptor antagonist treatments. This review briefly introduces the PROTAC strategy and summarizes the progress on the development of small molecule PROTACs targeting oncoproteins in sex hormone-dependent cancers, focusing on breast and prostate cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lihong Shi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhaodi Wang
- Department of Gynecology, People’s Hospital of Henan University, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jun Zeng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Gynecology, People’s Hospital of Henan University, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongtao Xiao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yongxia Zhu,
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22
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Izert MA, Klimecka MM, Górna MW. Applications of Bacterial Degrons and Degraders - Toward Targeted Protein Degradation in Bacteria. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:669762. [PMID: 34026843 PMCID: PMC8138137 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.669762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A repertoire of proteolysis-targeting signals known as degrons is a necessary component of protein homeostasis in every living cell. In bacteria, degrons can be used in place of chemical genetics approaches to interrogate and control protein function. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of synthetic applications of degrons in targeted proteolysis in bacteria. We describe recent advances ranging from large screens employing tunable degradation systems and orthogonal degrons, to sophisticated tools and sensors for imaging. Based on the success of proteolysis-targeting chimeras as an emerging paradigm in cancer drug discovery, we discuss perspectives on using bacterial degraders for studying protein function and as novel antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maria Wiktoria Górna
- Structural Biology Group, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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23
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Yan S, Yan J, Liu D, Li X, Kang Q, You W, Zhang J, Wang L, Tian Z, Lu W, Liu W, He W. A nano-predator of pathological MDMX construct by clearable supramolecular gold(I)-thiol-peptide complexes achieves safe and potent anti-tumor activity. Theranostics 2021; 11:6833-6846. [PMID: 34093856 PMCID: PMC8171083 DOI: 10.7150/thno.59020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
As alternatives to small-molecular proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTAC), peptide-based molecular glues (MG) are a broad range of dual-functional ligands that simultaneously bind with targetable proteins and E3 ligases by mimicking proteinprotein interaction (PPI) partners. Methods: Herein, we design a peptide-derived MG to target a tumor-driving protein, MDMX, for degradation, and nanoengineered it into a supramolecular gold(I)-thiol-peptide complex (Nano-MP) to implement the proteolysis recalcitrance, cellular internalization, and glutathione-triggered release. To optimize the tumor targeting, a pH-responsive macromolecule termed polyacryl sulfydryl imidazole (PSI) was synthesized to coat Nano-MP. Results: As expected, Nano-MP@PSI induced the MDMX degradation by ubiquitination and subsequently restored the anti-cancer function of p53 and p73. Nano-MP@PSI revealed potent anti-cancer activities in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model of retinoblastoma by intraocular injection and a patient-derived xenograft model of malignant pancreatic cancer by systemic injection, while maintaining a favorable safety profile and showing a highly favorable clearable profile of excretion from the living body. Conclusion: Collectively, this work not only provided a clinically viable paradigm for the treatment of a wide variety of tumors by multiple administration types, but, more importantly, it bridged the chasm between peptides and PROTACs, and likely reinvigorated the development of peptide-derived proteolysis-targeting chimeras for a great variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yan
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jin Yan
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Qianyan Kang
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Weiming You
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Jinghua Zhang
- School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Zhiqi Tian
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, 45267 OH, USA
| | - Wuyuan Lu
- School of Basic Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 20433, China
| | - Wenjia Liu
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Wangxiao He
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
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24
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Hughes GR, Dudey AP, Hemmings AM, Chantry A. Frontiers in PROTACs. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:2377-2383. [PMID: 33872800 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Targeting protein-protein interactions (PPI) is a key focus in the development of new and emerging small-molecule therapeutics. Shallow interacting surfaces can render PPI targeting notoriously difficult. This leaves many therapeutically captivating targets 'undruggable'. Despite these challenges, there has been extraordinary progress circumventing this issue by hijacking the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) to target selected substrates for destruction using target-based degradation (TBD) strategies, including bifunctional molecules known as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs). In this review, we discuss some of the most recent innovative concepts emerging from PROTAC research and related technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Hughes
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK; Department of Chemistry, King's College London, SE1 1DB, UK
| | - Ashley P Dudey
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Andrew M Hemmings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK; School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Andrew Chantry
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
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25
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Yang G, Wang Y, Xiao J, Zhao F, Qiu J, Liu Y, Chen G, Cao Z, You L, Zheng L, Zhang T, Zhao Y. CREPT serves as a biomarker of poor survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:345-355. [PMID: 33125631 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00569-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive human malignancies. Cell-cycle-related and expression-elevated protein in tumor (CREPT) plays an important role in the phosphorylation of RNA Pol II, and has been implicated in the development of several types of cancer. As yet, however, there have been no reports on its role in PDAC. Here, we aimed to explore the value of CREPT as a prognostic biomarker in PDAC. METHODS CREPT expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on a tissue microarray containing samples from 375 PDAC patients. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed to explore the independent prognostic value of CREPT expression for the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of PDAC patients. A Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay was used to determine the growth rates and gemcitabine sensitivities of PDAC cells, while a Transwell assay was used to determine the migration and invasion abilities of PDAC cells. Subcutaneous xenografts were used to explore the effect of CREPT expression on tumor growth in vivo. RESULTS We found that CREPT is highly expressed in tumor tissues and may serve as an independent prognostic biomarker for DFS and OS of PDAC patients. In vitro assays revealed that CREPT expression promotes the proliferation, migration, invasion and gemcitabine resistance of PDAC cells, and in vivo assays showed that CREPT expression knockdown led to inhibition of PDAC tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that high CREPT expression enhances the proliferation, migration, invasion and gemcitabine resistance of PDAC cells. In addition, we conclude that CREPT may serve as an independent prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yicheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jianchun Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Fangyu Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jiangdong Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yueze Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Guangyu Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhe Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lianfang Zheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing Street, Beijing, 100730, China.
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26
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Maneiro M, De Vita E, Conole D, Kounde CS, Zhang Q, Tate EW. PROTACs, molecular glues and bifunctionals from bench to bedside: Unlocking the clinical potential of catalytic drugs. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2021; 60:67-190. [PMID: 34147206 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The vast majority of currently marketed drugs rely on small molecules with an 'occupancy-driven' mechanism of action (MOA). Therefore, the efficacy of these therapeutics depends on a high degree of target engagement, which often requires high dosages and enhanced drug exposure at the target site, thus increasing the risk of off-target toxicities (Churcher, 2018 [1]). Although small molecule drugs have been successfully used as treatments for decades, tackling a variety of disease-relevant targets with a defined binding site, many relevant therapeutic targets remain challenging to drug due, for example, to lack of well-defined binding pockets or large protein-protein interaction (PPI) interfaces which resist interference (Dang et al., 2017 [2]). In the quest for alternative therapeutic approaches to address different pathologies and achieve enhanced efficacy with reduced side effects, ligand-induced targeted protein degradation (TPD) has gained the attention of many research groups both in academia and in industry in the last two decades. This therapeutic modality represents a novel paradigm compared to conventional small-molecule inhibitors. To pursue this strategy, heterobifunctional small molecule degraders, termed PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) have been devised to artificially redirect a protein of interest (POI) to the cellular protein homeostasis machinery for proteasomal degradation (Chamberlain et al., 2019 [3]). In this chapter, the development of PROTACs will first be discussed providing a historical perspective in parallel to the experimental progress made to understand this novel therapeutic modality. Furthermore, common strategies for PROTAC design, including assays and troubleshooting tips will be provided for the reader, before presenting a compendium of all PROTAC targets reported in the literature to date. Due to the recent advancement of these molecules into clinical trials, consideration of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic properties will be introduced, together with the biotech landscape that has developed from the success of PROTACs. Finally, an overview of subsequent strategies for targeted protein degradation will be presented, concluding with further scientific quests triggered by the invention of PROTACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maneiro
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - E De Vita
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - D Conole
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - C S Kounde
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Q Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - E W Tate
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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27
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Shi J, Hu J, Yuan Y, Zhang B, Guo W, Wu Y, Jiang L. Genetic Fusion of Transacting Activator of Transcription Peptide to Cyclized Green Fluorescence Protein Improves Stability, Intracellular Delivery, and Tumor Retention. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:7931-7940. [PMID: 33778304 PMCID: PMC7992142 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic proteins such as enzymes, hormones, and cytokines suffer from poor stability, inefficient cellular penetration, and rapid clearance from circulation. Conjugation with polymers (such as poly(ethylene glycol)) and fusion with long-acting proteins (such as albumin and Fc fragments) have been utilized to partially address the delivery issues, but these strategies require the introduction of new macromolecular substances, resulting in potential immunogenicity and toxicity. Herein, we report an easy strategy to increase the intracellular delivery efficiency and stability of proteins by combining of sortase-mediated protein cyclization and cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-mediated intracellular delivery. We, for the first time, genetically constructed a green fluorescence protein (GFP) fused with a CPP, a transacting activator of transcription (TAT) peptide, at its C-terminus for intracellular internalization, and two sortase recognition sequences, pentaglycine and LPETG, at its N- and C-termini for cyclization. Notably, the cyclized GFP-TAT (cGFP-TAT) not only highly retained the photophysical properties of the protein but also significantly improved the in vitro stability compared with the native linear GFP (lGFP) and linear TAT peptide-fused GFP (lGFP-TAT).Moreover, cGFP-TAT showed better cellular internalization ability compared with lGFP. In C26 tumor-inoculated mice, cGFP-TAT exhibited enhanced in vivo tumor retention, with increases of 7.79- and 6.52-fold relative to lGFP and lGFP-TAT in tumor retention 3 h after intratumor administration. This proof-of-concept study has provided an easy strategy to increase the in vitro stability, intracellular delivery efficiency, and in vivo tumor retention of GFP, which would be applicable to numerous therapeutic proteins and peptides for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianquan Shi
- Department
of Intensive Care Unit, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor
Research Institute, Beijing 101149, China
| | - Jin Hu
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yeshuang Yuan
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
- Department
of Microbiology and Immunology, North Sichuan
Medical College, Nanchong 637100, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wenting Guo
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuanhao Wu
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lingjuan Jiang
- Department
of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe
and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union
Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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28
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Zhai W, Ye X, Wang Y, Feng Y, Wang Y, Lin Y, Ding L, Yang L, Wang X, Kuang Y, Fu X, Eugene Chin Y, Jia B, Zhu B, Ren F, Chang Z. CREPT/RPRD1B promotes tumorigenesis through STAT3-driven gene transcription in a p300-dependent manner. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:1437-1448. [PMID: 33531691 PMCID: PMC8039031 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01269-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has been shown to upregulate gene transcription during tumorigenesis. However, how STAT3 initiates transcription remains to be exploited. This study is to reveal the role of CREPT (cell cycle-related and elevated-expression protein in tumours, or RPRD1B) in promoting STAT3 transcriptional activity. METHODS BALB/c nude mice, CREPT overexpression or deletion cells were employed for the assay of tumour formation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing. RESULTS We demonstrate that CREPT, a recently identified oncoprotein, enhances STAT3 transcriptional activity to promote tumorigenesis. CREPT expression is positively correlated with activation of STAT3 signalling in tumours. Deletion of CREPT led to a decrease, but overexpression of CREPT resulted in an increase, in STAT3-initiated tumour cell proliferation, colony formation and tumour growth. Mechanistically, CREPT interacts with phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) and facilitates p-STAT3 to recruit p300 to occupy at the promoters of STAT3-targeted genes. Therefore, CREPT and STAT3 coordinately facilitate p300-mediated acetylation of histone 3 (H3K18ac and H3K27ac), further augmenting RNA polymerase II recruitment. Accordingly, depletion of p300 abolished CREPT-enhanced STAT3 transcriptional activity. CONCLUSIONS We propose that CREPT is a co-activator of STAT3 for recruiting p300. Our study provides an alternative strategy for the therapy of cancers related to STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanli Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiongjun Ye
- Urology and Lithotripsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yinyin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yarui Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuting Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Lidan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuning Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanshen Kuang
- Department of General Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyuan Fu
- Laboratory of Human Diseases and Immunotherapies, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Beijing, China
| | - Y Eugene Chin
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Baoqing Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bingtao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Fangli Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhijie Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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29
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Yang L, Yang H, Chu Y, Song Y, Ding L, Zhu B, Zhai W, Wang X, Kuang Y, Ren F, Jia B, Wu W, Ye X, Wang Y, Chang Z. CREPT is required for murine stem cell maintenance during intestinal regeneration. Nat Commun 2021; 12:270. [PMID: 33431892 PMCID: PMC7801528 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20636-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) residing in the crypts are critical for the continual self-renewal and rapid recovery of the intestinal epithelium. The regulatory mechanism of ISCs is not fully understood. Here we report that CREPT, a recently identified tumor-promoting protein, is required for the maintenance of murine ISCs. CREPT is preferably expressed in the crypts but not in the villi. Deletion of CREPT in the intestinal epithelium of mice (Vil-CREPTKO) results in lower body weight and slow migration of epithelial cells in the intestine. Vil-CREPTKO intestine fails to regenerate after X-ray irradiation and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) treatment. Accordingly, the deletion of CREPT decreases the expression of genes related to the proliferation and differentiation of ISCs and reduces Lgr5+ cell numbers at homeostasis. We identify that CREPT deficiency downregulates Wnt signaling by impairing β-catenin accumulation in the nucleus of the crypt cells during regeneration. Our study provides a previously undefined regulator of ISCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Yunxiang Chu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Emergency General Hospital, 100028, Beijing, China
| | - Yunhao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Lidan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Bingtao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Wanli Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Xuning Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 100700, Beijing, China
| | - Yanshen Kuang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 100700, Beijing, China
| | - Fangli Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Baoqing Jia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 100700, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Xiongjun Ye
- Urology and Lithotripsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, 100034, Beijing, China.
| | - Yinyin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhijie Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
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Yang L, Yang H, Chu Y, Song Y, Ding L, Zhu B, Zhai W, Wang X, Kuang Y, Ren F, Jia B, Wu W, Ye X, Wang Y, Chang Z. CREPT is required for murine stem cell maintenance during intestinal regeneration. Nat Commun 2021. [DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20636-9 order by 38439--] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIntestinal stem cells (ISCs) residing in the crypts are critical for the continual self-renewal and rapid recovery of the intestinal epithelium. The regulatory mechanism of ISCs is not fully understood. Here we report that CREPT, a recently identified tumor-promoting protein, is required for the maintenance of murine ISCs. CREPT is preferably expressed in the crypts but not in the villi. Deletion of CREPT in the intestinal epithelium of mice (Vil-CREPTKO) results in lower body weight and slow migration of epithelial cells in the intestine. Vil-CREPTKO intestine fails to regenerate after X-ray irradiation and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) treatment. Accordingly, the deletion of CREPT decreases the expression of genes related to the proliferation and differentiation of ISCs and reduces Lgr5+ cell numbers at homeostasis. We identify that CREPT deficiency downregulates Wnt signaling by impairing β-catenin accumulation in the nucleus of the crypt cells during regeneration. Our study provides a previously undefined regulator of ISCs.
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Fuchs O, Bokorova R. Preclinical Studies of PROTACs in Hematological Malignancies. Cardiovasc Hematol Disord Drug Targets 2021; 21:7-22. [PMID: 33687890 DOI: 10.2174/1871529x21666210308111546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Incorrectly expressed or mutated proteins associated with hematologic malignancies have been generally targeted by chemotherapy using small-molecule inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies. But the majority of these intracellular proteins are without active sites and antigens. PROTACs, proteolysis targeting chimeras, are bifunctional molecules designed to polyubiquitinate and degrade specific pathological proteins of interest (POIs) by hijacking the activity of E3-ubiquitin ligases for POI polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation by the proteasome. This strategy utilizes the ubiquitin-proteasome system for the degradation of specific proteins in the cell. In many cases, including hematologic malignancies, inducing protein degradation as a therapeutic strategy offers therapeutic benefits over classical enzyme inhibition connected with resistance to inhibitors. Limitations of small-molecule inhibitors are shown. PROTACs can polyubiquitinate and mark for degradation of "undruggable"proteins, e.g. transcription factor STAT3 and scaffold proteins. Today, this technology is used in preclinical studies in various hematologic malignancies, mainly for targeting drug-resistant bromodomain and extraterminal proteins and Bruton tyrosine kinase. Several mechanisms limiting selectivity and safety of PROTAC molecules function are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ota Fuchs
- Department of Genomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radka Bokorova
- Department of Genomics, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
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Gettemans J, De Dobbelaer B. Transforming nanobodies into high-precision tools for protein function analysis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 320:C195-C215. [PMID: 33264078 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00435.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies, derived from camelid heavy antibodies (nanobodies) or shark variable new antigen receptors, have attracted increasing attention in recent years due to their extremely versatile nature and the opportunities they offer for downstream modification. Discovered more than three decades ago, these 120-amino acid (∼15-kDa) antibody fragments are known to bind their target with high specificity and affinity. Key features of nanobodies that make them very attractive include their single-domain nature, small size, and affordable high-level expression in prokaryotes, and their cDNAs are routinely obtained in the process of their isolation. This facilitates and stimulates new experimental approaches. Hence, it allows researchers to formulate new answers to complex biomedical questions. Through elementary PCR-based technologies and chemical modification strategies, their primary structure can be altered almost at leisure while retaining their specificity and biological activity, transforming them into highly tailored tools that meet the increasing demands of current-day biomedical research. In this review, various aspects of camelid nanobodies are expounded, including intracellular delivery in recombinant format for manipulation of, i.e., cytoplasmic targets, their derivatization to improve nanobody orientation as a capturing device, approaches to reversibly bind their target, their potential as protein-silencing devices in cells, the development of strategies to transfer nanobodies through the blood-brain barrier and their application in CAR-T experimentation. We also discuss some of their disadvantages and conclude with future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Gettemans
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Brian De Dobbelaer
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Current understanding of CREPT and p15RS, carboxy-terminal domain (CTD)-interacting proteins, in human cancers. Oncogene 2020; 40:705-716. [PMID: 33239754 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01544-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CREPT and p15RS, also named RPRD1B and RPRD1A, are RPRD (regulation of nuclear pre-mRNA-domain-containing) proteins containing C-terminal domain (CTD)-interacting domain (CID), which mediates the binding to the CTD of Rpb1, the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). CREPT and p15RS are highly conserved, with a common yeast orthologue Rtt103. Intriguingly, human CREPT and p15RS possess opposite functions in the regulation of cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. While p15RS inhibits cell proliferation, CREPT promotes cell cycle and tumor growth. Aberrant expression of both CREPT and p15RS was found in numerous types of cancers. At the molecular level, both CREPT and p15RS were reported to regulate gene transcription by interacting with RNAPII. However, CREPT also exerts a key function in the processes linked to DNA damage repairs. In this review, we summarized the recent studies regarding the biological roles of CREPT and p15RS, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying their activities. Fully revealing the mechanisms of CREPT and p15RS functions will not only provide new insights into understanding gene transcription and maintenance of DNA stability in tumors, but also promote new approach development for tumor diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- School of Medicine Huaqiao University Quanzhou 362021 P. R. China
| | - Jieqing Liu
- School of Medicine Huaqiao University Quanzhou 362021 P. R. China
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Jin J, Wu Y, Chen J, Shen Y, Zhang L, Zhang H, Chen L, Yuan H, Chen H, Zhang W, Luan X. The peptide PROTAC modality: a novel strategy for targeted protein ubiquitination. Theranostics 2020; 10:10141-10153. [PMID: 32929339 PMCID: PMC7481416 DOI: 10.7150/thno.46985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite dramatic advances in drug discovery over the decades, effective therapeutic strategies for cancers treatment are still in urgent demands. PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC), a novel therapeutic modality, has been vigorously promoted in preclinical and clinical applications. Unlike small molecule PROTAC, peptide PROTAC (p-PROTAC) with advantages of high specificity and low toxicity, while avoiding the limitations of shallow binding pockets through large interacting surfaces, provides promising substitutions for E3 ubiquitin ligase complex-mediated ubiquitination of "undruggable proteins". It is worth noting that successful applications of p-PROTAC still have some obstacles, including low stability and poor membrane permeability. Hence, we highlight that p-PROTAC combined with cell-penetrating peptides, constrained conformation technique, and targeted delivery systems could be the future efforts for potential translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmei Jin
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jinjiao Chen
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yiwen Shen
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lili Chen
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hebao Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 US
| | - Hongzhuan Chen
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Universities Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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