Synthesis of novel entecavir analogues having 4'-cyano-6''-fluoromethylenecyclopentene skeletons as an aglycone moiety as highly potent and long-acting anti-hepatitis B virus agent

Encouraged by our recent findings that 4'-cyano-deoxyguanosine (2), entecavir analogues 4 and 5 are highly potent anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) agents, we designed and synthesized 6 having a hybridized structure of 4 and 5. The chiral quaternary carbon portion at the 4'-position, which is substituted by cyano- and 5'-hydroxymethyl groups, was stereospecifically constructed by radical-mediated 5-exo-dig mode cyclization of 10. The introduction of the fluorine atom into the 6''-position was achieved by radical-mediated stannylation of sulfide (E)-11 and subsequent electrophilic fluorination of (E)-12. The desired (E)-6 was obtained after the introduction of the guanine base into (E)-18 under Mitsunobu conditions and following global deprotection. The stereoisomer (Z)-6 was also prepared by the same procedure using (Z)-12. Compound (E)-6 showed highly potent anti-HBV activity (EC₅₀ = 1.2 nM) with favorable cytotoxicity (CC₅₀ = 93 μM).

A novel anti-HBV agent, E-CFCP, restores Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-induced senescence-associated cellular marker perturbation in human hepatocytes

Cellular senescence is a cellular state with a broad spectrum of age-related physiological conditions that can be affected by various infectious diseases and treatments. Therapy of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with nucleos(t)ide analogs [NA(s)] is well established and benefits many HBV-infected patients, but requires long-term, perhaps lifelong, medication. In addition to the effects of HBV infection, the effects of NA administration on hepatocellular senescence are still unclear. This study investigated how HBV infection and NA treatment influence cellular senescence in human hepatocytes and humanized-liver chimeric mice chronically infected with live HBV. HBV infection upregulates or downregulates multiple cellular markers including senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity and cell cycle regulatory proteins (e.g., p21^CIP1) expression level in hepatocellular nuclei and humanized-mice liver. A novel highly potent anti-HBV NA, E-CFCP, per se did not have significant disturbance on markers evaluated. Besides, E-CFCP treatment restored HBV-infected cells to their physiological phenotypes that are comparable to the HBV-uninfected cells. The results reported here demonstrate that, regardless of the mechanism(s), chronic HBV infection perturbates multiple senescence-associated markers in human hepatocytes and humanized-mice liver, but E-CFCP can restore this phenomenon.

DAST-Mediated Fluorination of 1-[4-Thio-β-d-arabinofuranosyl]uracil: Investigation of Thiolane vs Thietane Formation and Stereoselective Synthesis of 4′-ThioFAC

The unprecedented DAST-mediated (DAST = diethylaminosulfur trifluoride) deoxygenative fluorination of benzoyl-, TBDPS-, and Bn-protected 1-(β-d-4-thioarabinofuranosyl)uracil at the sugar portion was examined. Three kinds of nucleoside (Ns) products were formed: target thiolane Ns, ring-contracted thietane Ns, and anhydro Ns products. The reaction pathway was determined by the electronic effect of the protecting groups at the sugar and base moieties. The benzoylated uracil starting material gave the 2,2′-anhydronucleoside (anhydro Ns) as a major product, whereas the silylated and benzylated starting materials furnished the corresponding fluorinated products, in which the ring-contracted thietanes predominantly formed. The desired thiolane Ns could be obtained as major product by the addition of a pyridine derivative as an additive. Upon reacting N 3-benzoylated 1-(β-d-4-thioarabinofuranosyl)uracil with DAST in the presence of 2,4,6-collidine, the target 2′-deoxy-2′-β-fluoro-4′-thiouracil nucleoside could be obtained in 72% isolated yield along with the corresponding thietane Ns (7%) and anhydro Ns (3%) (thiolane Ns/thietane Ns/anhydro Ns = 10.3:1.00:0.43), with recovery of the starting material (12%). In this study, the first stereoselective synthesis of the β-anomer of 1-(2-deoxy-2-fluoro-4-thio-β-d-arabino-pentofuranosyl)cytosine (4′-thioFAC) has been developed.

4-Thiofuranoid Glycal: Versatile Glycosyl Donor for the Selective Synthesis of β-anomer of 4’-thionucleoside and its biological activities

The first highly diastereoselective synthesis of β-anomers of 4’-thionucleosides has been carried out by means of electrophilic glycosidation utilizing 3,5-O-(di-t-butylsilylene) (DTBS)-4-thiofuranoid glycal as a glycosyl donor. The resulting glycosides were transformed into ribo-, 2’-deoxy- and arabinofuranosyl nucleosides through a chemical transformation of the 2’-substituent. The additive Pummerer reaction of the glycal S-oxide gave 1,2-di-O-acetyl-3,5-O-DTBS-4-thioribofuranose. The utility of the DTBS-protected 4-thioribofuranose has been demonstrated by the preparation of 4’-thio analogues of pyrimidine- and purine-4’-thioribonucleosides on the basis of the Vorbrüggen glycosidation. Synthesis of 4’-thio-counterpart of C-nucleoside antibiotic tiazofurin has also been carried out. α-Face selective hydroboration of 1-C-aryl- or 1-C-heteroaryl-glycals obtained by cross-coupling of 1-tributylstannylglycal has furnished the respective β-anomer of 4’-thio-C-ribonucleosides including 4’-thio analogue of nucleoside antibiotic pseudouridine and 9-deazaadenosine. On the basis of lithiation chemistry, 1-C- and 2-C-carbon-carbon-substituted 3,5-O-(1,1,3,3-tetraisopropyldisiloxane-1,3- diyl) (TIPDS)- 4-thiofuranoid glycal were synthesized. These glycals enabled us to prepare 1’-C- and 2’-β-C-carbon-substituted 2’-deoxy-4’-thionucleosides which include thio-counterpart of antitumor nucleoside antibiotic angustmycin C. Furthermore, 1’-C-methyl-4’-thiothymidine emerged as potent inhibitor of angiogenesis. In addition, 1’-C-methyl-4’-thiothymidine exhibited inhibitory activity against thymidine kinase deficient mutant of herpes virus more potent than that of ganciclovir. Among the 4’-substituted 4’-thiothymidines, the 4’-C-cyano- and 4’-C-ethynyl derivatives inhibited replication of HIV variant resistant to 3TC (HIVM184V) as potent as to those of the HIV-1IIIB. In terms of the value of selectivity index (SI), 4’-C-cyano-4’-thiothymidine showed 3-fold selective index (SI) than that of the corresponding thymidine derivative. Furthermore, 4’-C-ethynyl-2’-deoxy-4’-thioguanosine has a 20-fold better value (>18,200) than that of 2’-deoxyguanosine counterpart (933). Furthermore,4’-azido-4’-thiothymidine was emerged as selective and potent anti-EBV agent. In terms of antineoplastic activity, 4’-azido- and 4’-C-fluoromethyl-2’-deoxy-4’-thiocytidine inhibited proliferation of human B-cell (CCRF-SB) and T-cell leukemia (Molt-4) cell lines although the parent compound 2’-deoxy-4’-thiocytidine did not show any cytotoxicity up to 100 µM. These facts concerning the biological activities suggested that replacement of the furanose oxygen with sulfur atom is a promising approach for development of less toxic antiviral and antineoplastic nucleoside antimetabolites. 4’-Thionucleoside has also superior biological properties as monomer for oligonucleotides (ONs) therapeutics. Therefore, this review provides a wide range of potential monomer for antisense ON and siRNA.

Identification of a novel long-acting 4'-modified nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor against HBV

BACKGROUND & AIMS

While certain nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are efficacious in treating HBV infection, their effects are yet to be optimized and the emergence of NRTI-resistant HBV variants is an issue because of the requirement for lifelong treatment. The development of agents that more profoundly suppress wild-type and drug-resistant HBVs, and that have a long-acting effect, are crucial to improve patient outcomes.

METHODS

Herein, we synthesized a novel long-acting 4'-modified NRTI termed E-CFCP. We tested its anti-HBV activity in vitro, before evaluating its anti-HBV activity in HBV-infected human-liver-chimeric mice (PXB-mice). E-CFCP's long-acting features and E-CFCP-triphosphate's interactions with the HBV reverse transcriptase (HBV-RT) were examined.

RESULTS

E-CFCP potently blocked HBV_WT^D1 production (IC₅₀^qPCR_cell₌1.8 nM) in HepG2.2.15 cells and HBV_WT^C2 (IC₅₀^SB_cell=0.7 nM), entecavir (ETV)-resistant HBV_ETV-R^{L180M/S202G/M204V} (IC₅₀^SB_cell=77.5 nM), and adefovir-resistant HBV_ADV-R^A181T/N236T production (IC₅₀^SB_cell=14.1 nM) in Huh7 cells. E-CFCP profoundly inhibited intracellular HBV DNA production to below the detection limit, but ETV and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) failed to do so. E-CFCP also showed less toxicity than ETV and TAF. E-CFCP better penetrated hepatocytes and was better tri-phosphorylated; E-CFCP-triphosphate persisted intracellularly for longer than ETV-triphosphate. Once-daily peroral E-CFCP administration over 2 weeks (0.02~0.2 mg/kg/day) reduced HBV_WT^C2-viremia by 2-3 logs in PXB-mice without significant toxicities and the reduction persisted over 1-3 weeks following treatment cessation, suggesting once-weekly dosing capabilities. E-CFCP also reduced HBV_ETV-R^{L180M/S202G/M204V}-viremia by 2 logs over 2 weeks, while ETV completely failed to reduce HBV_ETV-R^{L180M/S202G/M204V}-viremia. E-CFCP's 4'-cyano and fluorine interact with both HBV_WT-RT and HBV_ETV-R^{L180M/S202G-M204} -RT via Van der Waals and polar forces, being important for E-CFCP-triphosphate's interactions and anti-HBV potency.

CONCLUSION

E-CFCP represents the first reported potential long-acting NRTI with potent activity against wild-type and treatment-resistant HBV.

LAY SUMMARY

Although there are currently effective treatment options for HBV, treatment-resistant variants and the need for lifelong therapy pose a significant challenge. Therefore, the development of new treatment options is crucial to improve outcomes and quality of life. Herein, we report preclinical evidence showing that the anti-HBV agent, E-CFCP, has potent activity against wild-type and treatment-resistant variants. In addition, once-weekly oral dosing may be possible, which is preferrable to the current daily dosing regimens.

Immunohistochemical expression levels of cyclin D1 and CREPT reflect the course and prognosis in oral precancerous lesions and squamous cell carcinoma

Cyclin D1 is the most essential progressive regulator of the cell cycle, and its transcription is enhanced by CREPT (cell cycle-related and expression-elevated protein in tumour). These molecules regulate cell growth, and their aberrant expression can cause malignant transformation. In this study, the expression of these molecules was explored to investigate the molecular alterations in oral precancerous lesions and squamous cell carcinoma. Cyclin D1 and CREPT expression was examined immunohistochemically in tissue specimens from 55 patients with oral epithelial precursor lesions (OEPLs) and 84 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Associations between the results and clinicopathological variables were examined. Cyclin D1 and CREPT expression levels were higher in OSCC than in OEPLs. Furthermore, there were statistically significant differences in cyclin D1 expression among the different grades of OEPLs and OSCC lesions. In OSCC, there were statistically significant differences in CREPT expression according to sex, T stage, and degree of differentiation. In addition, the expression of both molecules was significantly correlated with postoperative metastasis and modes of invasion. The expression of cyclin D1 and CREPT was found to depend upon the state of development and progression of the oral epithelial lesions, and clinicopathological behaviours might be affected by these molecules in OSCC.

Synthesis and evaluation of the anti-hepatitis B virus activity of 4'-Azido-thymidine analogs and 4'-Azido-2'-deoxy-5-methylcytidine analogs: structural insights for the development of a novel anti-HBV agent

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major worldwide health problem that requires the development of improved antiviral therapies. Here, a series of 4'-Azido-thymidine/4'-Azido-2'-deoxy-5-methylcytidine derivatives (6, 10-15) were synthesized, and their anti-HBV activities evaluated. Compounds 10-15 were synthesized via an S_NAr reaction of 18, in which the 4-position of the thymine moiety was activated as the 2,4,6-triisopropylbenzenesulfonate. Compounds 11-15 showed no antiviral activity. However, 4'-Azido thymidine (6) and 4'-Azido-2'-deoxy-5-methylcytidine (10) displayed significant anti-HBV activity (EC₅₀ = 0.63 and 5.99 µM, respectively) with no detectable cytotoxicity against MT-2 cells up to 100 µM.

An alternative method for the synthesis of 2'-halogeno-1',2'-unsaturated uridine derivatives through syn-elimination of pivalic acid of 2'-halogeno- 2'-deoxy-1'-pivaloyloxyuracil nucleoside: preparation of its 2'-C-branched nucleosides

An alternative method for the preparation of 2'-bromo- (5b) and 2'-iodo- (5c) 1',2'-unsaturated uracil nucleosides has been developed. The protocol was on the basis of the syn-elimination of pivalic acid from 2'-bromo-(7a,b) and 2'-iodo-(9a,b) 1'-pivaloyloxy-2'-deoxyuridine derivatives, which were derived from the halo-pivaloyloxylation of 3',5'-bis-O-TBDMS-1',2'-unsaturated uridine 1. Compounds 5b and 5c were shown to serve as versatile synthons for the respective 2'-C-branched 1',2'-unsaturated uracil nucleosides, through palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling or halogen-lithium exchange reactions.

Regulatory T cells and M2-polarized tumour-associated macrophages are associated with the oncogenesis and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) contribute to the tumour microenvironment by inhibiting anti-tumour immune responses. This study was performed to investigate the roles of Tregs and TAMs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral epithelial precursor lesions (OEPL). The expression of Treg markers CD25 and FoxP3 and TAM markers CD163 and CD204 was investigated in 82 OSCC and 45 OEPL specimens, and their associations with clinicopathological parameters were analyzed. Correlations were found among CD25, FoxP3, CD163, and CD204 levels (P <  0.001), and these targets were up-regulated in OSCC compared to OEPL (P <  0.001). In OSCC, infiltration of Tregs and/or M2 TAMs was associated with sex and clinicopathological features, such as tumour size, nodal metastasis, tissue differentiation, stromal reaction, invasive behaviour, and invasive depth. In OEPL, CD25, FoxP3, CD163, and CD204 immunoreactivities were significantly associated with sex, postoperative recurrence, and cancerization to OSCC. This study is novel in showing that the infiltration of Tregs and M2 TAMs is significantly associated with the progression of premalignant lesions to OSCC. This suggests that these cells represent prognostic biomarkers for premalignant lesion progression and that immunotherapeutic approaches to control Treg/M2 TAM numbers could protect against progression to malignancy.

Synthesis, Anti-HBV, and Anti-HIV Activities of 3'-Halogenated Bis(hydroxymethyl)-cyclopentenyladenines

Synthesis of 3'-halogeno analogues (5a-d) of 9-[c-4,t-5-bis(hydroxymethyl)-cyclopent-2-en-r-1-yl]-9H-adenine (BCA, 3) was accomplished by means of dual utilization of the vinyl sulfone functional moieties in both 10 and 16 utilizing a S_N2' conjugate-addition reaction and a sulfur-extrusive stannylation, respectively. Evaluation of the antiviral activities of 5a-d revealed that introduction of a halogeno-substituent into the 3'-position of (-)-BCA diminished its anti-HIV-1 activity but increased the inhibitory activity for the reverse transcriptase of HBV in that the 3'-fluorinated BCA 5d exhibited the highest activity without significant cytotoxicity.

A novel entecavir analogue constructing with a spiro[2.4]heptane core structure in the aglycon moiety: Its synthesis and evaluation for anti-hepatitis B virus activity

Synthesis of a novel 2'-deoxy-guanine carbocyclic nucleoside 4 constructed with spiro[2.4]heptane core structure in the aglycon moiety was carried out. Radical-mediated 5-exo-dig mode cyclization and following cyclopropanation proceeded efficiently to furnish the spiro alcohol 10. Subsequent Mitsunobu-type glycosylation between 13 and 14, deoxygenation of the 2'-hydroxyl group of 16 and deprotection of 17 gave the title compound 4. Compound 4 demonstrated moderate anti-HBV activity (EC₅₀ value of 0.12 ± 0.02 µM) and no cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells was observed up to 100 µM.

Diagnostic performance of MR imaging of three major salivary glands for Sjögren's syndrome

OBJECTIVE

We analyzed the diagnostic performance of the MR imaging findings of the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands to discriminate between patients with and without Sjögren's syndrome.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the correlation between the MR imaging and histopathological findings obtained from 69 patients with clinically suspected Sjögren's syndrome. We evaluated the heterogeneous signal intensity distribution on T1- and T2-weighted images, the multiple high-signal-intensity spots on MR sialograms, and the volume of the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual salivary glands.

RESULTS

The multiple high-signal-intensity spots in the parotid gland showed the highest sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy (82% and 83%, respectively). In addition, the multiple high-signal-intensity spots and the heterogeneous signal intensity distribution in the submandibular gland showed high specificity (100% and 88%, respectively). The volume of the submandibular gland, but not that of the parotid or sublingual gland, was smaller in patients with Sjögren's syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of multiple high-signal-intensity spots on an MR sialogram in the parotid gland should be considered the best diagnostic indicator for Sjögren's syndrome. The presence of spots, heterogeneity, and the change to smaller volumes in the submandibular gland were also helpful because of their high specificity, particularly in advanced cases.

Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Anti-HBV Activity of Hybrid Molecules of Entecavir and Adefovir: Exomethylene Acycloguanine Nucleosides and Their Monophosphate Derivatives

Exomethylene acycloguanine nucleosides 4, 6 and its monophosphate derivatives 5, 7, and 8 have been synthesized. Mitsunobu-type coupling of 2-N-acetyl-6-O-diphenylcarbamoylguanine (11) with primary alcohols proceeded regioselectively to furnish the desired N(9)-substituted products in moderate yield. Evaluation of 4-8 for anti-HBV activity in HepG2 cells revealed that the phosphonate derivative 8 was found to exhibit moderated activity (EC50 value of 0.29 μM), but cytotoxicity (CC50 value of 39 μM) against the host cells was also observed.

Diastereoselective Synthesis of 6″-(Z)- and 6″-(E)-Fluoro Analogues of Anti-hepatitis B Virus Agent Entecavir and Its Evaluation of the Activity and Toxicity Profile of the Diastereomers

A method for the diastereoselective synthesis of 6″-(Z)- and 6″-(E)-fluorinated analogues of the anti-HBV agent entecavir has been developed. Construction of the methylenecyclopentane skeleton of the target molecules has been accomplished by radical-mediated 5-exo-dig cyclization of the selenides 6 and 15 having the phenylsulfanylethynyl structure as a radical accepting moiety. In the radical reaction of the TBS-protected precursor 6, (Z)-anti-12 was formed as a major product. On the other hand, TIPS-protected 15 gave (E)-anti-12. The sulfur-extrusive stannylation of anti-12 furnished a mixture of geometric isomers of the respective vinylstannane, whereas benzoyl-protected 17 underwent the stannylation in the manner of retention of configuration. Following XeF2-mediated fluorination, introduction of the purine base and deoxygenation of the resulting carbocyclic guanosine gave the target (E)- and (Z)-3 after deprotection. Evaluation of the anti-HBV activity of 3 revealed that fluorine-substitution at the 6″-position of entecavir gave rise to a reduction in the cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells with retention of the antiviral activity.

From the chemistry of epoxy-sugar nucleosides to the discovery of anti-HIV agent 4'-ethynylstavudine-Festinavir

Branched sugar nucleosides have attracted much attention due to their biological activities. We have demonstrated that epoxysugar nucleosides serve as versatile precursor for the stereo-defined synthesis of these nucleoside derivatives on the basis of its ring opening with organoaluminum or organosilicon reagents. In this review article, novel methods for the synthesis of nucleoside analogues branched at the 1' and 4'-position will be described. During this study, we could discover an anti-HIV agent, 4'-ethynylstavudine (Festinavir). Festinavir showed more potent anti-HIV activity than the parent compound stavudine (d4T). Other significant properties of Festinavir are as follows: 1) much less toxic to various cells and also to mitochondorial DNA synthesis than d4T, 2) better substrate for human thymidine kinase than d4T, 3) resistant not only to chemical glycosidic bond cleavage but also to catabolism by thymidine phosphorylase, 4) the activity improves in the presence of a major mutation, K103N, associated with resistance to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Detailed profile of the antiviral activities, biology and pharmacology of Festinavir are also described.

Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules as surrogate markers for EGFR inhibitor sensitivity in human lung adenocarcinoma

Background:

Lung adenocarcinoma (LADCA) patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are in general associated with relatively high clinical response rate to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) but not all responded to TKI. It has therefore become important to identify the additional surrogate markers regarding EGFR-TKI sensitivity.

Methods:

We first examined the effects of EGFR-TKIs, gefitinib and erlotinib, upon cell proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. We then evaluated the gene profiles related to EGFR-TKI sensitivity using a microarray analysis. Results of microarray analysis led us to focus on carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule (CEACAM) family, CEACAM 3, 5, 6, 7, and 19, as potential further surrogate markers of EGFR-TKI sensitivity. We then examined the correlation between the status of CEACAM 3, 5, 6, 7, and 19 immunoreactivity in LADCA and clinicopathological parameters of individual cases.

Results:

In the cases with EGFR mutations, the status of all CEACAMs examined was significantly higher than that in EGFR wild-type patients, but there were no significant differences in the status of CEACAMs between TKI responder and nonresponder among 22 patients who received gefitinib therapy. However, among 115 EGFR mutation-negative LADCA patients, both CEACAM6 and CEACAM3 were significantly associated with adverse clinical outcome (CEACAM6) and better clinical outcome (CEACAM3).

Conclusion:

CEACAMs examined in this study could be related to the presence of EGFR mutation in adenocarcinoma cells but not represent the effective surrogate marker of EGFR-TKI in LADCA patients. However, immunohistochemical evaluation of CEACAM3/6 in LADCA patients could provide important information on their clinical outcome.

Synthesis of 4'-substituted cordycepins via benzenesulfenylation at the 4'-position as a key step

With an aim to synthesize 4'-substituted cordycepins, the 4'-phenylthio precursor 4 was prepared from adenosine through an electrophilic addition to the 3',4'-unsaturated derivative 2 by using NIS/PhSH system. Nucleophilic substitution of 4 with a series of alcohols in the presence of NBS gave the respective 4'-alpha-alkoxy cordycepins 6 as the major stereoisomer. Use of DAST, in stead of alcohol in this reaction, gave the 4'-fluoro analogue 7. The 4'-sulfone derivative 8 obtained by m-CPBA oxidation of 4 was employed for the reaction with organoaluminum reagents. These reactions furnished various types of the 4'-carbon-substituted cordycepins 9.

Synthesis of 5'-fluoro-2'-beta-methylneplanocin analogues

Synthesis of 5'-fluoro-2'-beta-methylneplanocin analogues (5) was carried out. The cyclopentenone 16 was prepared from methyl mannopyranoside by using ring closing metathesis, stereoselective introduction of methyl group, and seleno cyclization as representative steps. Introduction of a fluorine atom was conducted by electrophilic fluorination. Antiviral activity of 5 will also be presented.

Looking for new pyrimidine acyclic nucleotide analogues designed for phosphorylation by human UMP-CMP kinase

Human UMP-CMP kinase is involved in the phosphorylation of nucleic acid precursors and also in the activation of antiviral analogues including cidofovir, an acyclic phosphonate compound that mimicks dCMP and shows a broad antiviral spectrum. The binding of ligands to the enzyme was here investigated using a fluorescent probe and a competitive titration assay. At the acceptor site, the enzyme was found to accommodate any base, purine and pyrimidine, including thymidine. A method for screening analogues based on their affinity for the UMP binding site was developed. The affinities of uracil vinylphosphonate derivatives modified in the 5 position were found similar to (d)UMP and (d)CMP and improved when compared to cidofovir.

Cross-metathesis mediated synthesis of new acyclic nucleoside phosphonates

With the commercial availability of well-defined ruthenium metathesis catalysts which combine high stability and broad functional group compatibility, olefin metathesis is now routinely integrated in various syntheses. We will report here the overwhelming power and scope of cross-metathesis in the area of new acyclic nucleoside phosphonates. Scope and limitations of this approach, and especially the E/Z stereocontrol, are discussed on selected examples from our drug discovery group.

Synthesis of novel 4'-modified neplanocin A analogues and their inhibitory activity against S-adenosyl-L-l-homocysteine hydrolase

A new approach was developed for the synthesis of 4'-modified neplanocin A analogues, as potential inhibitors against S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase. The vinylstannane 13, a key intermediate in the present approach, was prepared by radical-mediated sulfur-extrusive stannylation.

Synthesis and antiviral evaluation of (+/-)-4'-ethynyl-5'-difluorocarbocyclic-d4T analogue

Synthesis of (+/-)-4'-ethynyl-5'-difluorocarbocyclic-d4T analogue 8, in which the furanose ring oxygen of usual nucleosides is replaced with a geminal-difluoromethylidene group, was carried out. Electrophilic fluorination with Selectfluor was applied to construct a gem-difluorocyclopentenone system to give 12. Regioselective introduction of thymine base was performed under the Mitsunobu conditions by employing the 4-methoxycarbonyl derivative 13. Antiviral evaluation of 8 was also examined.

Immunohistochemical detection of phosphorylated JNK, p38 MAPK, and ERK5 in ameloblastic tumors

BACKGROUND

To evaluate roles of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in oncogenesis and cytodifferentiation of odontogenic tumors, expression of phosphorylated JNK (p-JNK), p38 MAPK (p-p38 MAPK), and ERK5 (p-ERK5) was analyzed in ameloblastic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

METHODS

Ten tooth germs, 47 ameloblastomas, and 5 malignant ameloblastic tumors were examined immunohistochemically with the antibodies against p-JNK, p-p38 MAPK, and p-ERK5.

RESULTS

Immunoreactivity for p-JNK was detected in epithelial or neoplastic cells detached from the basement membrane in 7 tooth germs and 7 ameloblastomas, and the expression levels of p-JNK in ameloblastic tumors were significantly lower than that in tooth germs. Expression of p-p38 MAPK was found in epithelial or neoplastic cells in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors except for two ameloblastomas, and increased expression was found in keratinizing cells of acanthomatous ameloblastomas. The expression level of p-p38 MAPK in ameloblastomas was significantly higher than the levels in tooth germs and malignant ameloblastic tumors. Immunoreactivity for p-ERK5 was found predominantly in epithelial or neoplastic cells near the basement membrane in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors. The expression levels of p-ERK5 in ameloblastic tumors were slightly higher than that in tooth germs, and plexiform ameloblastomas showed significantly higher p-ERK5 expression than follicular ameloblastomas.

CONCLUSION

Expression of p-JNK, p-p38 MAPK, and p-ERK5 in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors suggests that these MAPK signaling pathways contribute to cell proliferation, differentiation, or apoptosis in both normal and neoplastic odontogenic tissues. Altered expression of these phosphorylated MAPKs in ameloblastic tumors may be involved in oncogenesis and tumor cell differentiation.

Nucleotide binding to human UMP-CMP kinase using fluorescent derivatives -- a screening based on affinity for the UMP-CMP binding site

Methylanthraniloyl derivatives of ATP and CDP were used in vitro as fluorescent probes for the donor-binding and acceptor-binding sites of human UMP-CMP kinase, a nucleoside salvage pathway kinase. Like all NMP kinases, UMP-CMP kinase binds the phosphodonor, usually ATP, and the NMP at different binding sites. The reaction results from an in-line phosphotransfer from the donor to the acceptor. The probe for the donor site was displaced by the bisubstrate analogs of the Ap5X series (where X = U, dT, A, G), indicating the broad specificity of the acceptor site. Both CMP and dCMP were competitors for the acceptor site probe. To find antimetabolites for antivirus and anticancer therapies, we have developed a method of screening acyclic phosphonate analogs that is based on the affinity of the acceptor-binding site of the human UMP-CMP kinase. Several uracil vinylphosphonate derivatives had affinities for human UMP-CMP kinase similar to those of dUMP and dCMP and better than that of cidofovir, an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate with a broad spectrum of antiviral activities. The uracil derivatives were inhibitors rather than substrates of human UMP-CMP kinase. Also, the 5-halogen-substituted analogs inhibited the human TMP kinase less efficiently. The broad specificity of the enzyme acceptor-binding site is in agreement with a large substrate-binding pocket, as shown by the 2.1 A crystal structure.

Immunohistochemical detection of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin in ameloblastic tumors

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the roles of extracellular matrix (ECM)-degrading serine proteinase in progression of odontogenic tumors, expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor (uPAR), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and maspin was analyzed in ameloblastic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

METHODS

Tissue specimens of 10 tooth germs, 45 ameloblastomas, and 5 malignant ameloblastic tumors were examined immunohistochemically with the use of antibodies against uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical reactivity for uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin was detected in normal and neoplastic odontogenic tissues: uPA was recognized predominantly in mesenchymal cells, uPAR was evident in epithelial cells, PAI-1 was found in both epithelial and mesenchymal cells, and maspin was expressed only in epithelial cells. The levels of uPA and uPAR immunoreactivity in ameloblastic tumors were slightly higher than the levels in tooth germs, while PAI-1 reactivity in ameloblastomas tended to be lower than that in tooth germs. The level of maspin immunoreactivity in ameloblastomas was significantly higher than that in tooth germs, and ameloblastic carcinoma showed decreased maspin reactivity.

CONCLUSION

Expression of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors suggests that interactions among these molecules contribute to ECM degradation and cell migration during tooth development and tumor progression. Altered expression of the serine proteinase and its associated molecules in ameloblastic tumors may be involved in oncogenesis of odontogenic epithelium.

Immunohistochemical detection of insulin-like growth factors, platelet-derived growth factor, and their receptors in ameloblastic tumors

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the roles of growth factors in oncogenesis and cytodifferentiation of odontogenic tumors, expression of insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and their receptors was analyzed in ameloblastic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

METHODS

Tissue specimens of 10 tooth germs, 47 ameloblastomas, and five malignant ameloblastic tumors were examined immunohistochemically with the use of antibodies against IGF-I, IGF-II, IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR), PDGF A-chain, PDGF B-chain, PDGF alpha-receptor, and PDGF beta-receptor.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical reactivity for IGFs, PDGF chains, and their receptors was detected predominantly in odontogenic epithelial cells near the basement membrane in tooth germs and in benign and malignant ameloblastic tumors. The expression levels of IGF-II and PDGF chains were significantly higher in ameloblastic tumors than in tooth germs. Malignant ameloblastic tumors showed higher reactivity for PDGF chains than benign ameloblastomas and higher reactivity for platelet-derived growth factor receptors than tooth germs. The expression levels of PDGF chains were significantly higher in follicular ameloblastomas than in plexiform ameloblastomas. Desmoplastic ameloblastomas showed higher expression of IGFs and IGF-IR when compared with other ameloblastoma subtypes.

CONCLUSION

Expression of IGFs, PDGF, and their receptors in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors suggests that these growth factor signals contribute to cell proliferation or survival in both normal and neoplastic odontogenic tissues. Expression of these molecules in odontogenic tissues possibly affects interactions with the bone microenvironment during tooth development and intraosseous progression of ameloblastic tumors. Altered expression of the ligands and receptors in ameloblastic tumors may be involved in oncogenesis, malignant potential, and tumor cell differentiation.

Synthesis and anti-human immunodeficiency virus activity of 4'-branched (+/-)-4'-thiostavudines

Motivated by our recent finding that 4'-ethynylstavudine (4) is a promising anti-human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) agent, we synthesized its 4'-thio analogue, as well as other 4'-thiostavudines having a carbon substituent at the 4'-position, as racemates in this study. Methyl 3-oxo-tetrahydrothiophen-2-carboxylate (5) was used as a starting material to construct the requisite 4-thiofuranoid glycal (13). Introduction of a thymine base was carried out by an electrophilic addition reaction to 13 using N-iodosuccinimide (NIS) and bis(trimethylsilyl)thymine. The desired beta-anomer (16beta) obtained as a major product in this reaction underwent ready elimination with activated Zn to give the 4'-carbomethoxy derivative (18). By using 18 as a common intermediate, 4'-carbon-substituted (CH2OH, CO2Me, CONH2, CH=CH2, CN, and C(triple bond)CH) 4'-thiostavudines were prepared. Among these six compounds, 4'-cyano (28) and 4'-ethynyl (29) analogues were found to show inhibitory activity against HIV-1 with ED50 values of 7.6 and 0.74 microM, respectively. The activity of 29 was comparable to that of stavudine, but 29 was not as active as 4. Optical resolution of 29 was briefly examined.

Synthesis of 5'-branched neplanocin A analogues based on radical-mediated sulfur-extrusive stannylation

An approach was developed for the synthesis of 5'-branched neplanocin A, as potential inhibitors against S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase. The vinyl-stannane system of the key synthetic intermediate (14) in the present study, was prepared by radical-mediated sulfur-extrusive stannylation.

3'-Carbon-substituted pyrimidine nucleosides having a 2',3'-dideoxy and 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dideoxy structure: synthesis and antiviral evaluation

The bis(tributylstannyl) derivative of 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (d4U) underwent an anionic 5'-O-->3'-C stannyl migration to yield the 3'-tributylstannyl-d4U. This compound, with its vinylstannane structure, allowed ready access to the preparation of 3'-carbon-substituted analogues through the Stille reaction. A conventional transformation of the uracil moiety of these d4U analogues led to the corresponding 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dideoxycytidine (d4C) counterparts. Some 2',3'-dideoxycytidine (ddC) analogues were also synthesized. Antiviral evaluation revealed that none of these analogues showed activity against HIV, hepatitis B virus, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and HSV-2.

Immunohistochemical detection of MT1-MMP, RECK, and EMMPRIN in ameloblastic tumors

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the roles of matrix-degrading proteinase regulators in progression of odontogenic tumors, expression of membrane-bound matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) MT1-MMP, MMP inhibitor RECK and MMP inducer EMMPRIN was analyzed in ameloblastic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

METHODS

Tissue specimens of 11 tooth germs, 40 ameloblastomas, and five malignant ameloblastic tumors were examined immunohistochemically with the use of antibodies against MT1-MMP, RECK, and EMMPRIN.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical reactivity for MT1-MMP, RECK and EMMPRIN was detected predominantly in odontogenic epithelial cells near the basement membrane in tooth germs and benign and malignant ameloblastic tumors. The level of immunoreactivity for MT1-MMP was slightly higher in benign and malignant ameloblastic tumors than in tooth germs. RECK expression was lower in ameloblastomas than in tooth germs. Follicular ameloblastomas showed significantly lower expression of RECK than plexiform ameloblastomas, and immunoreactivity for RECK in acanthomatous ameloblastomas was slightly lower than that in other cellular variants.

CONCLUSION

Expression of MT1-MMP, RECK and EMMPRIN in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors suggests that these normal and neoplastic epithelial components control MMP-dependent extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation during tooth development and tumor progression via epithelial-mesenchymal interactions.

Reaction of the 2'-silyl and 2'-stannyl derivatives of 6-(bromomethyl)dimethylsilyl-1',2'-unsaturated uridine under radical conditions

The mode of cyclization (5-exo versus 6-endo) of 2-sila-5-hexen-1-yl radicals generated from 2'-tributylstannyl- and 2'-trimethylsilyl-6-(bromomethyl)dimethylsilyl-1',2'-unsaturated uridines (8 and 9) was investigated. Although the actual structure of the reaction products differ from each other reflecting the ease of elimination of the 2'-substituent, it was found that both substrates prefer the 5-exo-cyclization pathway.

Expression of bone morphogenetic proteins and their associated molecules in ameloblastomas and adenomatoid odontogenic tumors

OBJECTIVE

To further clarify the roles of regulators of embryonic development, bone morphogenetic protein (BMPs) and their associated molecules, in oncogenesis and cytodifferentiation of odontogenic tumors, the expression of these regulator molecules were analyzed in epithelial odontogenic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tooth germs, ameloblastomas, adenomatoid odontogenic tumors, and malignant ameloblastomas were examined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry for detection of BMP-2, -4, -7, BMP receptors I and II (BMPR-I, BMPR-II), core-binding factor alpha1 (CBFA1), and osterix.

RESULTS

mRNA expression of BMPs, BMPRs, CBFA1, and osterix was detected in all odontogenic tissues. Immunohistochemical reactivity for BMPs, BMPRs, and CBFA1 was detected in both epithelial and mesenchymal cells of tooth germs and epithelial odontogenic tumors. BMPs and BMPRs were evidently expressed in odontogenic epithelial cells in tooth germs and epithelial odontogenic tumors. Acanthomatous ameloblastomas showed increased BMP-7 reactivity in keratinizing cells. Nuclear CBFA1 expression was detected scatteredly in odontogenic epithelial cells in normal and neoplastic odontogenic tissues, as well as in some mesenchymal cells in tooth germs and in some stromal cells in epithelial odontogenic tumors. Ameloblastic carcinomas showed low reactivity for BMPs, BMPRs, and CBFA1.

CONCLUSION

BMPs and their associated molecules might play a role in cytodifferentiation of normal and neoplastic odontogenic epithelium via epithelial-mesenchymal interactions.

Molecular pathology of odontogenic tumors

Odontogenic tumors are lesions derived from the elements of the tooth-forming apparatus and are found exclusively within the jawbones. This review represents a contemporary outline of our current understanding of the molecular and genetic alterations associated with the development and progression of odontogenic tumors, including oncogenes, tumor-suppressor genes, oncoviruses, growth factors, telomerase, cell cycle regulators, apoptosis-related factors, regulators of tooth development, hard tissue-related proteins, cell adhesion molecules, matrix-degrading proteinases, angiogenic factors, and osteolytic cytokines. It is hoped that better understanding of related molecular mechanisms will help to predict the course of odontogenic tumors and lead to the development of new therapeutic concepts for their management.

Synthesis of novel 4'-carbon-substituted BCA derivatives based on radical cyclization

Synthesis of (+/-)-4'-carbon-substituted BCA analogues (3) was carried out. Stereospecific construction of the cis-disposed 4'-carbon-substituent and 5'-hydroxy-methyl group was secured by employing the bicyclo-[3.3.0]lactone 11 as a key intermediate, which was prepared by radical-mediated 5-exo-trig cyclization of the phenylselenomethyl ester 10. After manipulation of the double bond of 11, 6-chloropurine was introduced based on the Mitsunobu reaction of the allyl alcohol 15. Ammonolysis of the resulting carbocyclic nucleoside led to the adenine derivative 16. Saponification of the bicylic lactone furnished the 4'-carboxylic acid 17 which serves as a precursor for other 4'-carbon-substituted analogues.

4'-Ethynylstavudine (4'-Ed4T) has potent anti-HIV-1 activity with reduced toxicity and shows a unique activity profile against drug-resistant mutants

A nucleoside analogue 4'-ethynylstavudine (4'-Ed4T) was recently synthesized during chemical studies directed towards the development of a new route to 4'-carbon-substituted nucleosides. This compound was found to be more anti-HIV-1 active than the parent compound stavudine (d4T) and much less toxic to various cells and also to mitochondrial DNA synthesis. It became apparent that 4'-Ed4T is a better substrate for human thymidine kinase than d4T, and very much more resistant to catabolism by thymidine phosphorylase. The study of 4'-Ed4T against various drug-resistant HIV-1 mutants has disclosed its unique activity profile.