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Wang JM, Zhang FH, Liu ZX, Tang YJ, Li JF, Xie LP. Cancer on motors: How kinesins drive prostate cancer progression? Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116229. [PMID: 38643904 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer causes numerous male deaths annually. Although great progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer during the past several decades, much about this disease remains unknown, especially its pathobiology. The kinesin superfamily is a pivotal group of motor proteins, that contains a microtubule-based motor domain and features an adenosine triphosphatase activity and motility characteristics. Large-scale sequencing analyses based on clinical samples and animal models have shown that several members of the kinesin family are dysregulated in prostate cancer. Abnormal expression of kinesins could be linked to uncontrolled cell growth, inhibited apoptosis and increased metastasis ability. Additionally, kinesins may be implicated in chemotherapy resistance and escape immunologic cytotoxicity, which creates a barrier to cancer treatment. Here we cover the recent advances in understanding how kinesins may drive prostate cancer progression and how targeting their function may be a therapeutic strategy. A better understanding of kinesins in prostate cancer tumorigenesis may be pivotal for improving disease outcomes in prostate cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ming Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng-Hao Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Xiang Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Jie Tang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Feng Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Li-Ping Xie
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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Silva JPN, Pinto B, Monteiro L, Silva PMA, Bousbaa H. Coupling Kinesin Spindle Protein and Aurora B Inhibition with Apoptosis Induction Enhances Oral Cancer Cell Killing. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2014. [PMID: 38893134 PMCID: PMC11171144 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Many proteins regulating mitosis have emerged as targets for cancer therapy, including the kinesin spindle protein (KSP) and Aurora kinase B (AurB). KSP is crucial for proper spindle pole separation during mitosis, while AurB plays roles in chromosome segregation and cytokinesis. Agents targeting KSP and AurB selectively affect dividing cells and have shown significant activity in vitro. However, these drugs, despite advancing to clinical trials, often yield unsatisfactory outcomes as monotherapy, likely due to variable responses driven by cyclin B degradation and apoptosis signal accumulation networks. Accumulated data suggest that combining emerging antimitotics with various cytostatic drugs can enhance tumor-killing effects compared to monotherapy. Here, we investigated the impact of inhibiting anti-apoptotic signals with the BH3-mimetic Navitoclax in oral cancer cells treated with the selective KSP inhibitor, Ispinesib, or AurB inhibitor, Barasertib, aiming to potentiate cell death. The combination of BH3-mimetics with both KSP and AurB inhibitors synergistically induced substantial cell death, primarily through apoptosis. A mechanistic analysis underlying this synergistic activity, undertaken by live-cell imaging, is presented. Our data underscore the importance of combining BH3-mimetics with antimitotics in clinical trials to maximize their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- João P. N. Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Bárbara Pinto
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Luís Monteiro
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Patrícia M. A. Silva
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Hassan Bousbaa
- UNIPRO—Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (J.P.N.S.); (B.P.); (L.M.)
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Hosea R, Hillary S, Naqvi S, Wu S, Kasim V. The two sides of chromosomal instability: drivers and brakes in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:75. [PMID: 38553459 PMCID: PMC10980778 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01767-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a hallmark of cancer and is associated with tumor cell malignancy. CIN triggers a chain reaction in cells leading to chromosomal abnormalities, including deviations from the normal chromosome number or structural changes in chromosomes. CIN arises from errors in DNA replication and chromosome segregation during cell division, leading to the formation of cells with abnormal number and/or structure of chromosomes. Errors in DNA replication result from abnormal replication licensing as well as replication stress, such as double-strand breaks and stalled replication forks; meanwhile, errors in chromosome segregation stem from defects in chromosome segregation machinery, including centrosome amplification, erroneous microtubule-kinetochore attachments, spindle assembly checkpoint, or defective sister chromatids cohesion. In normal cells, CIN is deleterious and is associated with DNA damage, proteotoxic stress, metabolic alteration, cell cycle arrest, and senescence. Paradoxically, despite these negative consequences, CIN is one of the hallmarks of cancer found in over 90% of solid tumors and in blood cancers. Furthermore, CIN could endow tumors with enhanced adaptation capabilities due to increased intratumor heterogeneity, thereby facilitating adaptive resistance to therapies; however, excessive CIN could induce tumor cells death, leading to the "just-right" model for CIN in tumors. Elucidating the complex nature of CIN is crucial for understanding the dynamics of tumorigenesis and for developing effective anti-tumor treatments. This review provides an overview of causes and consequences of CIN, as well as the paradox of CIN, a phenomenon that continues to perplex researchers. Finally, this review explores the potential of CIN-based anti-tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rendy Hosea
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Sharon Hillary
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Sumera Naqvi
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Shourong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China.
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
| | - Vivi Kasim
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China.
- The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
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Gao W, Lu J, Yang Z, Li E, Cao Y, Xie L. Mitotic Functions and Characters of KIF11 in Cancers. Biomolecules 2024; 14:386. [PMID: 38672404 PMCID: PMC11047945 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040386] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitosis mediates the accurate separation of daughter cells, and abnormalities are closely related to cancer progression. KIF11, a member of the kinesin family, plays a vital role in the formation and maintenance of the mitotic spindle. Recently, an increasing quantity of data have demonstrated the upregulated expression of KIF11 in various cancers, promoting the emergence and progression of cancers. This suggests the great potential of KIF11 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target. However, the molecular mechanisms of KIF11 in cancers have not been systematically summarized. Therefore, we first discuss the functions of the protein encoded by KIF11 during mitosis and connect the abnormal expression of KIF11 with its clinical significance. Then, we elucidate the mechanism of KIF11 to promote various hallmarks of cancers. Finally, we provide an overview of KIF11 inhibitors and outline areas for future work.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yufei Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.G.); (J.L.); (Z.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Lei Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.G.); (J.L.); (Z.Y.); (E.L.)
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Chen D, Wang J, Li Y, Xu C, Fanzheng M, Zhang P, Liu L. LncRNA NEAT1 suppresses cellular senescence in hepatocellular carcinoma via KIF11-dependent repression of CDKN2A. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1418. [PMID: 37752791 PMCID: PMC10522973 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1418] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Therapeutic options for advanced HCC are limited, which is due to a lack of full understanding of pathogenesis. Cellular senescence is a state of cell cycle arrest, which plays important roles in the pathogenesis of HCC. Mechanisms underlying hepatocellular senescence are not fully understood. LncRNA NEAT1 acts as an oncogene and contributes to the development of HCC. Whether NEAT1 modulates hepatocellular senescence in HCC is unknown. METHODS The role of NEAT1 and KIF11 in cellular senescence and tumor growth in HCC was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. RNA pulldown, mass spectrometry, Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), luciferase reporter assays, RNA FISH and immunofluorescence (IF) staining were used to explore the detailed molecular mechanism of NEAT1 and KIF11 in cellular senescence of HCC. RESULTS We found that NEAT1 was upregulated in tumor tissues and hepatoma cells, which negatively correlated with a senescence biomarker CDKN2A encoding p16INK4a and p14ARF proteins. NEAT1 was reduced in senescent hepatoma cells induced by doxorubicin (DOXO) or serum starvation. Furthermore, NEAT1 deficiency caused senescence in cultured hepatoma cells, and protected against the progression of HCC in a mouse model. During senescence, NEAT1 translocated into cytosol and interacted with a motor protein KIF11, resulting in KIF11 protein degradation and subsequent increased expression of CDKN2A in cultured hepatoma cells. Furthermore, KIF11 knockdown caused senescence in cultured hepatoma cells. Genetic deletion of Kif11 in hepatocytes inhibited the development of HCC in a mouse model. CONCLUSIONS Conclusively, NEAT1 overexpression reduces senescence and promotes tumor progression in HCC tissues and hepatoma cells, whereas NEAT1 deficiency causes senescence and inhibits tumor progression in HCC. This is associated with KIF11-dependent repression of CDKN2A. These findings lay the foundation to develop potential therapies for HCC by inhibiting NEAT1 and KIF11 or inducing senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danlei Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary SurgeryHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary DiseasesHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Jinghao Wang
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Yang Li
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Chenglin Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Meng Fanzheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary SurgeryHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary DiseasesHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Lianxin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary SurgeryHefeiAnhuiChina
- Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary DiseasesHefeiAnhuiChina
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Łomzik M, Błauż A, Głodek M, Makal A, Tchoń D, Ayine-Tora DM, Hartinger C, Rychlik B, Plażuk D. Organometallic Ru, Os, Rh and Ir half-sandwich conjugates of ispinesib - impact of the organometallic group on the antimitotic activity. Dalton Trans 2023; 52:11859-11874. [PMID: 37464882 DOI: 10.1039/d3dt01217d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Antimitotic agents are among the most important drugs used in anticancer therapy. Kinesin spindle protein (KSP) was proposed as a promising target for new antimitotic drugs. Herein, we report the synthesis of Ru, Os, Rh, and Ir half-sandwich complexes with the KSP inhibitor ispinesib and its (S)-enantiomer. Conjugation of the organometallic moiety with ispinesib and its (S)-enantiomer resulted in a significantly increased cytotoxicity of up to 5.6-fold compared to the parent compounds, with IC50 values in the nanomolar range. The most active derivatives were the ispinesib Ru and Rh conjugates which were able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may at least partially explain their high cytotoxicity. At the same time, the Os and Ir derivatives acted as KSP inhibitors with no effects on ROS generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Łomzik
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, ul. Tamka 12, 91-403 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Błauż
- Cytometry Lab, Department of Oncobiology and Epigenetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, ul. Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Łódź, Poland
| | - Marta Głodek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, ul. Tamka 12, 91-403 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Anna Makal
- Laboratory for Structural and Biochemical Research (LBSBio), Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, ul. Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Daniel Tchoń
- Laboratory for Structural and Biochemical Research (LBSBio), Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, ul. Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warszawa, Poland
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | | | - Christian Hartinger
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Błażej Rychlik
- Cytometry Lab, Department of Oncobiology and Epigenetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, ul. Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Łódź, Poland
| | - Damian Plażuk
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, ul. Tamka 12, 91-403 Łódź, Poland.
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Indorato RL, DeBonis S, Garcia-Saez I, Skoufias DA. Drug resistance dependent on allostery: A P-loop rigor Eg5 mutant exhibits resistance to allosteric inhibition by STLC. Front Oncol 2022; 12:965455. [PMID: 36313676 PMCID: PMC9597087 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.965455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mitotic kinesin Eg5 has emerged as a potential anti-mitotic target for the purposes of cancer chemotherapy. Whether clinical resistance to these inhibitors can arise is unclear. We exploited HCT116 cancer cell line to select resistant clones to S-trityl-L-cysteine (STLC), an extensively studied Eg5 loop-L5 binding inhibitor. The STLC resistant clones differed in their resistance to other loop-L5 binding inhibitors but remained sensitive to the ATP class of competitive Eg5 specific inhibitors. Eg5 is still necessary for bipolar spindle formation in the resistant clones since the cells were sensitive to RNAi mediated depletion of Eg5. One clone expressing Eg5(T107N), a dominant point mutation in the P-loop of the ATP binding domain of the motor, appeared to be not only resistant but also dependent on the presence of STLC. Eg5(T107N) expression was associated also with resistance to the clinical relevant loop-L5 Eg5 inhibitors, Arry-520 and ispinesib. Ectopic expression of the Eg5(T107N) mutant in the absence of STLC was associated with strong non-exchangeable binding to microtubules causing them to bundle. Biochemical assays showed that in contrast to the wild type Eg5-STLC complex, the ATP binding site of the Eg5(T107N) is accessible for nucleotide exchange only when the inhibitor is present. We predict that resistance can be overcome by inhibitors that bind to other than the Eg5 loop-L5 binding site having different chemical scaffolds, and that allostery-dependent resistance to Eg5 inhibitors may also occur in cells and may have positive implications in chemotherapy since once diagnosed may be beneficial following cessation of the chemotherapeutic regimen.
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Kinesin spindle protein inhibitors in cancer: from high throughput screening to novel therapeutic strategies. Future Sci OA 2022; 8:FSO778. [PMID: 35251692 PMCID: PMC8890118 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2021-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bringing to a halt the cell cycle in mitosis and interfering with its normal progression is one of the most successful anti-cancer strategies used nowadays. Classically, several kinds of anti-cancer drugs like taxanes and vinca alkaloids directly inhibit microtubules during cell division. These drugs exhibit serious side effects, most importantly, severe peripheral neuropathies. Alternatively, KSP inhibitors are grasping a lot of research attention as less toxic mitotic inhibitors. In this review, we track the medicinal chemistry developmental stages of KSP inhibitors. Moreover, we address the challenges that are faced during the development of KSP inhibitor therapy for cancer and future insights for the latest advances in research that are directed to find active KSP inhibitor drugs. Scientists have recognized the importance of selective KSP inhibitors in the early 2000s and so various KSP protein inhibitors have been investigated. Only ten of these have been clinically evaluated for cancer treatment. Ispinesib (SB-715992) and filanesib (Arry-520) were the most promising small molecules in clinical trials against the KSP protein. Many challenges are faced during the development of an active anti-KSP drug; most importantly are the unsatisfactory clinical trial results. Designing dual inhibitors, antibody–drug conjugates, combination therapy and gene therapy approach are among the main strategies that are being investigated nowadays to find new effective KSP inhibitors. The scientific research efforts are still devoted to find an effective and tolerable KSP inhibitor drug that can gain US FDA approval.
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Kałafut J, Czerwonka A, Anameriç A, Przybyszewska-Podstawka A, Misiorek JO, Rivero-Müller A, Nees M. Shooting at Moving and Hidden Targets-Tumour Cell Plasticity and the Notch Signalling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6219. [PMID: 34944837 PMCID: PMC8699303 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is often aggressive, with poor response to current therapies in approximately 40-50% of the patients. Current therapies are restricted to operation and irradiation, often combined with a small number of standard-of-care chemotherapeutic drugs, preferentially for advanced tumour patients. Only very recently, newer targeted therapies have entered the clinics, including Cetuximab, which targets the EGF receptor (EGFR), and several immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the immune receptor PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1. HNSCC tumour tissues are characterized by a high degree of intra-tumour heterogeneity (ITH), and non-genetic alterations that may affect both non-transformed cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and transformed carcinoma cells. This very high degree of heterogeneity likely contributes to acquired drug resistance, tumour dormancy, relapse, and distant or lymph node metastasis. ITH, in turn, is likely promoted by pronounced tumour cell plasticity, which manifests in highly dynamic and reversible phenomena such as of partial or hybrid forms of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and enhanced tumour stemness. Stemness and tumour cell plasticity are strongly promoted by Notch signalling, which remains poorly understood especially in HNSCC. Here, we aim to elucidate how Notch signal may act both as a tumour suppressor and proto-oncogenic, probably during different stages of tumour cell initiation and progression. Notch signalling also interacts with numerous other signalling pathways, that may also have a decisive impact on tumour cell plasticity, acquired radio/chemoresistance, and metastatic progression of HNSCC. We outline the current stage of research related to Notch signalling, and how this pathway may be intricately interconnected with other, druggable targets and signalling mechanisms in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kałafut
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Arkadiusz Czerwonka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alinda Anameriç
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alicja Przybyszewska-Podstawka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Julia O. Misiorek
- Department of Molecular Neurooncology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Matthias Nees
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
- Western Finland Cancer Centre (FICAN West), Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20101 Turku, Finland
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Wang P, Zhou Y, Richards AM. Effective tools for RNA-derived therapeutics: siRNA interference or miRNA mimicry. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:8771-8796. [PMID: 34522211 PMCID: PMC8419061 DOI: 10.7150/thno.62642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The approval of the first small interfering RNA (siRNA) drug Patisiran by FDA in 2018 marks a new era of RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics. MicroRNAs (miRNA), an important post-transcriptional gene regulator, are also the subject of both basic research and clinical trials. Both siRNA and miRNA mimics are ~21 nucleotides RNA duplexes inducing mRNA silencing. Given the well performance of siRNA, researchers ask whether miRNA mimics are unnecessary or developed siRNA technology can pave the way for the emergence of miRNA mimic drugs. Through comprehensive comparison of siRNA and miRNA, we focus on (1) the common features and lessons learnt from the success of siRNAs; (2) the unique characteristics of miRNA that potentially offer additional therapeutic advantages and opportunities; (3) key areas of ongoing research that will contribute to clinical application of miRNA mimics. In conclusion, miRNA mimics have unique properties and advantages which cannot be fully matched by siRNA in clinical applications. MiRNAs are endogenous molecules and the gene silencing effects of miRNA mimics can be regulated or buffered to ameliorate or eliminate off-target effects. An in-depth understanding of the differences between siRNA and miRNA mimics will facilitate the development of miRNA mimic drugs.
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Murase Y, Ono H, Ogawa K, Yoshioka R, Ishikawa Y, Ueda H, Akahoshi K, Ban D, Kudo A, Tanaka S, Tanabe M. Inhibitor library screening identifies ispinesib as a new potential chemotherapeutic agent for pancreatic cancers. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:4641-4654. [PMID: 34510663 PMCID: PMC8586681 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Screening custom‐made libraries of inhibitors may reveal novel drugs for treating pancreatic cancer. In this manner, we identified ispinesib as a candidate and attempted to determine its clinical efficacy and the biological significance of its functional target Eg5 in pancreatic cancer. One hundred compounds in our library were screened for candidate drugs using cell cytotoxicity assays. Ispinesib was found to mediate effective antitumor effects in pancreatic cancer. The clinical significance of the expression of the ispinesib target Eg5 was investigated in 165 pancreatic cancer patients by immunohistochemical staining and in Eg5‐positive pancreatic cancer patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models. Patients with Eg5‐positive tumors experienced significantly poorer clinical outcomes than those not expressing Eg5 (overall survival; P < .01, recurrence‐free survival; P < .01). Ispinesib or Eg5 inhibition with specific siRNA significantly suppressed cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cell lines. Mechanistically, ispinesib acted by inducing incomplete mitosis with nuclear disruption, resulting in multinucleated monoastral spindle cells. In the PDX mouse model, ispinesib dramatically reduced tumor growth relative to vehicle control (652.2 mm3 vs 18.1 mm3 in mean tumor volume, P < .01 by ANOVA; 545 mg vs 28 mg in tumor weight, P < .01, by ANOVA). Ispinesib, identified by inhibitor library screening, could be a promising novel therapeutic agent for pancreatic cancer. The expression of its target Eg5 is associated with poorer postoperative prognosis and is important for the clinical efficacy of ispinesib in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Murase
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Ono
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kosuke Ogawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Risa Yoshioka
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Ishikawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueda
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Akahoshi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ban
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kudo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Tanabe
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Novais P, Silva PMA, Amorim I, Bousbaa H. Second-Generation Antimitotics in Cancer Clinical Trials. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1011. [PMID: 34371703 PMCID: PMC8309102 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13071011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitosis represents a promising target to block cancer cell proliferation. Classical antimitotics, mainly microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs), such as taxanes and vinca alkaloids, are amongst the most successful anticancer drugs. By disrupting microtubules, they activate the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), which induces a prolonged delay in mitosis, expected to induce cell death. However, resistance, toxicity, and slippage limit the MTA's effectiveness. With the desire to overcome some of the MTA's limitations, mitotic and SAC components have attracted great interest as promising microtubule-independent targets, leading to the so-called second-generation antimitotics (SGAs). The identification of inhibitors against most of these targets, and the promising outcomes achieved in preclinical assays, has sparked the interest of academia and industry. Many of these inhibitors have entered clinical trials; however, they exhibited limited efficacy as monotherapy, and failed to go beyond phase II trials. Combination therapies are emerging as promising strategies to give a second chance to these SGAs. Here, an updated view of the SGAs that reached clinical trials is here provided, together with future research directions, focusing on inhibitors that target the SAC components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Novais
- CESPU, Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies (IINFACTS), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (P.N.); (P.M.A.S.)
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia M. A. Silva
- CESPU, Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies (IINFACTS), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (P.N.); (P.M.A.S.)
| | - Isabel Amorim
- GreenUPorto (Sustainable Agrifood Production) Research Center, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Hassan Bousbaa
- CESPU, Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies (IINFACTS), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (P.N.); (P.M.A.S.)
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13
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Pandey H, Popov M, Goldstein-Levitin A, Gheber L. Mechanisms by Which Kinesin-5 Motors Perform Their Multiple Intracellular Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6420. [PMID: 34203964 PMCID: PMC8232732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bipolar kinesin-5 motor proteins perform multiple intracellular functions, mainly during mitotic cell division. Their specialized structural characteristics enable these motors to perform their essential functions by crosslinking and sliding apart antiparallel microtubules (MTs). In this review, we discuss the specialized structural features of kinesin-5 motors, and the mechanisms by which these features relate to kinesin-5 functions and motile properties. In addition, we discuss the multiple roles of the kinesin-5 motors in dividing as well as in non-dividing cells, and examine their roles in pathogenetic conditions. We describe the recently discovered bidirectional motility in fungi kinesin-5 motors, and discuss its possible physiological relevance. Finally, we also focus on the multiple mechanisms of regulation of these unique motor proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Larisa Gheber
- Department of Chemistry and Ilse Katz Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel; (H.P.); (M.P.); (A.G.-L.)
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14
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van Harten AM, Brakenhoff RH. Targeted Treatment of Head and Neck (Pre)Cancer: Preclinical Target Identification and Development of Novel Therapeutic Applications. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2774. [PMID: 34204886 PMCID: PMC8199752 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) develop in the mucosal lining of the upper-aerodigestive tract. In carcinogen-induced HNSCC, tumors emerge from premalignant mucosal changes characterized by tumor-associated genetic alterations, also coined as 'fields' that are occasionally visible as leukoplakia or erythroplakia lesions but are mostly invisible. Consequently, HNSCC is generally diagnosed de novo at more advanced stages in about 70% of new diagnosis. Despite intense multimodality treatment protocols, the overall 5-years survival rate is 50-60% for patients with advanced stage of disease and seems to have reached a plateau. Of notable concern is the lack of further improvement in prognosis despite advances in treatment. This can be attributed to the late clinical presentation, failure of advanced HNSCC to respond to treatment, the deficit of effective targeted therapies to eradicate tumors and precancerous changes, and the lack of suitable markers for screening and personalized therapy. The molecular landscape of head and neck cancer has been elucidated in great detail, but the absence of oncogenic mutations hampers the identification of druggable targets for therapy to improve outcome of HNSCC. Currently, functional genomic approaches are being explored to identify potential therapeutic targets. Identification and validation of essential genes for both HNSCC and oral premalignancies, accompanied with biomarkers for therapy response, are being investigated. Attentive diagnosis and targeted therapy of the preceding oral premalignant (preHNSCC) changes may prevent the development of tumors. As classic oncogene addiction through activating mutations is not a realistic concept for treatment of HNSCC, synthetic lethality and collateral lethality need to be exploited, next to immune therapies. In recent studies it was shown that cell cycle regulation and DNA damage response pathways become significantly altered in HNSCC causing replication stress, which is an avenue that deserves further exploitation as an HNSCC vulnerability for treatment. The focus of this review is to summarize the current literature on the preclinical identification of potential druggable targets for therapy of (pre)HNSCC, emerging from the variety of gene knockdown and knockout strategies, and the testing of targeted inhibitors. We will conclude with a future perspective on targeted therapy of HNSCC and premalignant changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. van Harten
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tumor Biology & Immunology Section, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; or
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Department of Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Ruud H. Brakenhoff
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tumor Biology & Immunology Section, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; or
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15
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KIF11 inhibitors filanesib and ispinesib inhibit meningioma growth in vitro and in vivo. Cancer Lett 2021; 506:1-10. [PMID: 33652084 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Treatment of aggressive meningiomas remains challenging due to a high rate of recurrence in higher-grade meningiomas, frequent subtotal resections, and the lack of effective systemic treatments. Substantial overexpression associated with a poor prognosis has been demonstrated for kinesin family member 11 (KIF11) in high-grade meningiomas. Due to anti-tumor activity for KIF11 inhibitors (KIF11i) filanesib and ispinesib in other cancer types, we sought to investigate their mode of action and efficacy for the treatment of aggressive meningiomas. Dose curve analysis of both KIF11i revealed IC50 values of less than 1 nM in anaplastic and benign meningioma cell lines. Both compounds induced G2/M arrest and subsequent subG1 increase in all cell lines. Profound induction of apoptosis was detected in the anaplastic cell lines determined by annexin V staining. KIF11i significantly inhibited meningioma growth in xenotransplanted mice by up to 83%. Furthermore, both drugs induced minor hematological side effects, which were less pronounced for filanesib. We identified substantial in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor effects of the KIF11 inhibitors filanesib and ispinesib, with filanesib demonstrating better tolerability, suggesting future use of filanesib for the treatment of aggressive meningioma.
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16
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Garcia-Saez I, Skoufias DA. Eg5 targeting agents: From new anti-mitotic based inhibitor discovery to cancer therapy and resistance. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 184:114364. [PMID: 33310050 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Eg5, the product of Kif11 gene, also known as kinesin spindle protein, is a motor protein involved in the proper establishment of a bipolar mitotic spindle. Eg5 is one of the 45 different kinesins coded in the human genome of the kinesin motor protein superfamily. Over the last three decades Eg5 has attracted great interest as a promising new mitotic target. The identification of monastrol as specific inhibitor of the ATPase activity of the motor domain of Eg5 inhibiting the Eg5 microtubule motility in vitro and in cellulo sparked an intense interest in academia and industry to pursue the identification of novel small molecules that target Eg5 in order to be used in cancer chemotherapy based on the anti-mitotic strategy. Several Eg5 inhibitors entered clinical trials. Currently the field is faced with the problem that most of the inhibitors tested exhibited only limited efficacy. However, one Eg5 inhibitor, Arry-520 (clinical name filanesib), has demonstrated clinical efficacy in patients with multiple myeloma and is scheduled to enter phase III clinical trials. At the same time, new trends in Eg5 inhibitor research are emerging, including an increased interest in novel inhibitor binding sites and a focus on drug synergy with established antitumor agents to improve chemotherapeutic efficacy. This review presents an updated view of the structure and function of Eg5-inhibitor complexes, traces the possible development of resistance to Eg5 inhibitors and their potential therapeutic applications, and surveys the current challenges and future directions of this active field in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Garcia-Saez
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biologie Structurale (IBS), 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Dimitrios A Skoufias
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biologie Structurale (IBS), 38000 Grenoble, France.
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17
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Škubník J, Jurášek M, Ruml T, Rimpelová S. Mitotic Poisons in Research and Medicine. Molecules 2020; 25:E4632. [PMID: 33053667 PMCID: PMC7587177 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the greatest challenges of the modern medicine. Although much effort has been made in the development of novel cancer therapeutics, it still remains one of the most common causes of human death in the world, mainly in low and middle-income countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer treatment services are not available in more then 70% of low-income countries (90% of high-income countries have them available), and also approximately 70% of cancer deaths are reported in low-income countries. Various approaches on how to combat cancer diseases have since been described, targeting cell division being among them. The so-called mitotic poisons are one of the cornerstones in cancer therapies. The idea that cancer cells usually divide almost uncontrolled and far more rapidly than normal cells have led us to think about such compounds that would take advantage of this difference and target the division of such cells. Many groups of such compounds with different modes of action have been reported so far. In this review article, the main approaches on how to target cancer cell mitosis are described, involving microtubule inhibition, targeting aurora and polo-like kinases and kinesins inhibition. The main representatives of all groups of compounds are discussed and attention has also been paid to the presence and future of the clinical use of these compounds as well as their novel derivatives, reviewing the finished and ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Škubník
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 3, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic; (J.Š.); (T.R.)
| | - Michal Jurášek
- Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 3, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic;
| | - Tomáš Ruml
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 3, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic; (J.Š.); (T.R.)
| | - Silvie Rimpelová
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 3, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic; (J.Š.); (T.R.)
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18
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Chai AWY, Lim KP, Cheong SC. Translational genomics and recent advances in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 61:71-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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19
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Chuang SH, Lee YSE, Huang LYL, Chen CK, Lai CL, Lin YH, Yang JY, Yang SC, Chang LH, Chen CH, Liu CW, Lin HS, Lee YR, Huang KP, Fu KC, Jen HM, Lai JY, Jian PS, Wang YC, Hsueh WY, Tsai PY, Hong WH, Chang CC, Wu DZ, Wu J, Chen MH, Yu KM, Chern CY, Chang JM, Lau JYN, Huang JJ. Discovery of T-1101 tosylate as a first-in-class clinical candidate for Hec1/Nek2 inhibition in cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 191:112118. [PMID: 32113126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Highly expressed in cancer 1 (Hec1) plays an essential role in mitosis and is correlated with cancer formation, progression, and survival. Phosphorylation of Hec1 by Nek2 kinase is essential for its mitotic function, thus any disruption of Hec1/Nek2 protein-protein interaction has potential for cancer therapy. We have developed T-1101 tosylate (9j tosylate, 9j formerly known as TAI-95), optimized from 4-aryl-N-pyridinylcarbonyl-2-aminothiazole of scaffold 9 by introducing various C-4' substituents to enhance potency and water solubility, as a first-in-class oral clinical candidate for Hec1 inhibition with potential for cancer therapy. T-1101 has good oral absorption, along with potent in vitro antiproliferative activity (IC50: 14.8-21.5 nM). It can achieve high concentrations in Huh-7 and MDA-MB-231 tumor tissues, and showed promise in antitumor activity in mice bearing human tumor xenografts of liver cancer (Huh-7), as well as of breast cancer (BT474, MDA-MB-231, and MCF7) with oral administration. Oral co-administration of T-1101 halved the dose of sorafenib (25 mg/kg to 12.5 mg/kg) required to exhibit comparable in vivo activity towards Huh-7 xenografts. Cellular events resulting from Hec1/Nek2 inhibition with T-1101 treatment include Nek2 degradation, chromosomal misalignment, and apoptotic cell death. A combination of T-1101 with either of doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and topotecan in select cancer cells also resulted in synergistic effects. Inactivity of T-1101 on non-cancerous cells, a panel of kinases, and hERG demonstrates cancer specificity, target specificity, and cardiac safety, respectively. Subsequent salt screening showed that T-1101 tosylate has good oral AUC (62.5 μM·h), bioavailability (F = 77.4%), and thermal stability. T-1101 tosylate is currently in phase I clinical trials as an orally administered drug for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hsien Chuang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Shuan E Lee
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Lynn Y L Huang
- Taivex Therapeutics Corporation, 2nd Floor, Dongxing Rd., Songshan Dist., Taipei City, 10511, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Kuan Chen
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Liang Lai
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiang Lin
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Ying Yang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Chuan Yang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Lien-Hsiang Chang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hui Chen
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wei Liu
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Her-Sheng Lin
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ru Lee
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Kuan Pin Huang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Kuo Chu Fu
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Min Jen
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Yu Lai
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Shiou Jian
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Wang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yun Hsueh
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Tsai
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Hua Hong
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Chang
- Taivex Therapeutics Corporation, 2nd Floor, Dongxing Rd., Songshan Dist., Taipei City, 10511, Taiwan
| | - Diana Zc Wu
- Xenobiotic Laboratories, Inc., Plainsboro, NJ, USA
| | - Jinn Wu
- Xenobiotic Laboratories, Inc., Plainsboro, NJ, USA
| | - Meng-Hsin Chen
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Ming Yu
- Taivex Therapeutics Corporation, 2nd Floor, Dongxing Rd., Songshan Dist., Taipei City, 10511, Taiwan
| | - Ching Yuh Chern
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Ming Chang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Johnson Y N Lau
- Taivex Therapeutics Corporation, 2nd Floor, Dongxing Rd., Songshan Dist., Taipei City, 10511, Taiwan
| | - Jiann-Jyh Huang
- Development Center for Biotechnology, National Biotechnology Research Park, Taipei City, 11571, Taiwan; Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City, 60004, Taiwan.
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20
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Algarín EM, Hernández-García S, Garayoa M, Ocio EM. Filanesib for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2019; 29:5-14. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1703179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susana Hernández-García
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Mercedes Garayoa
- Cancer Research Center (IBMCC-CSIC-USAL), University Hospital of Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Enrique M. Ocio
- University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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21
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Muratori L, La Salvia A, Sperone P, Di Maio M. Target therapies in recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancer: state of the art and novel perspectives. A systematic review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2019; 139:41-52. [PMID: 31112881 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous-cell carcinomas (R/M HNSCC) are a group of cancers with a very poor prognosis. Many clinical trials testing novel target therapies in this setting are currently ongoing. We performed a systematic review focusing our attention on all clinical trials, ongoing or already published, concerning the use of novel drugs for treatment of R/M HNSCC. We found that the research of novel molecules effective in treatment of R/M HNSCC has been intense during last decade, and nowadays it is still very active. Unfortunately, the results in this setting have been, overall, disappointing: until now, only cetuximab and, recently, nivolumab and pembrolizumab received authorization for treatment of R/M HNSCC. Nevertheless, the promising results showed by some novel drugs may lead to continue the research in this field, with the aim of producing more evidence and finding new therapeutic indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Muratori
- Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Luigi Gonzaga, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy.
| | - Anna La Salvia
- Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avenida Cordoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Paola Sperone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Luigi Gonzaga, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy.
| | - Massimo Di Maio
- Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Azienda Ospedaliera Ordine Mauriziano, Corso Re Umberto 109, 10128 Turin, Italy.
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22
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Identification of KIF11 As a Novel Target in Meningioma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040545. [PMID: 30991738 PMCID: PMC6521001 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinesins play an important role in many physiological functions including intracellular vesicle transport and mitosis. The emerging role of kinesins in different cancers led us to investigate the expression and functional role of kinesins in meningioma. Therefore, we re-analyzed our previous microarray dataset of benign, atypical, and anaplastic meningiomas (n = 62) and got evidence for differential expression of five kinesins (KIFC1, KIF4A, KIF11, KIF14 and KIF20A). Further validation in an extended study sample (n = 208) revealed a significant upregulation of these genes in WHO°I to °III meningiomas (WHO°I n = 61, WHO°II n = 88, and WHO°III n = 59), which was most pronounced in clinically more aggressive tumors of the same WHO grade. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed a WHO grade-associated upregulated protein expression in meningioma tissues. Furthermore, high mRNA expression levels of KIFC1, KIF11, KIF14 and KIF20A were associated with shorter progression-free survival. On a functional level, knockdown of kinesins in Ben-Men-1 cells and in the newly established anaplastic meningioma cell line NCH93 resulted in a significantly inhibited tumor cell proliferation upon siRNA-mediated downregulation of KIF11 in both cell lines by up to 95% and 71%, respectively. Taken together, in this study we were able to identify the prognostic and functional role of several kinesin family members of which KIF11 exhibits the most promising properties as a novel prognostic marker and therapeutic target, which may offer new treatment options for aggressive meningiomas.
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Liu X, Chen Y, Li Y, Petersen RB, Huang K. Targeting mitosis exit: A brake for cancer cell proliferation. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2019; 1871:179-191. [PMID: 30611728 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The transition from mitosis to interphase, referred to as mitotic exit, is a critical mitotic process which involves activation and inactivation of multiple mitotic kinases and counteracting protein phosphatases. Loss of mitotic exit checkpoints is a common feature of cancer cells, leading to mitotic dysregulation and confers cancer cells with oncogenic characteristics, such as aberrant proliferation and microtubule-targeting agent (MTA) resistance. Since MTA resistance results from cancer cells prematurely exiting mitosis (mitotic slippage), blocking mitotic exit is believed to be a promising anticancer strategy. Moreover, based on this theory, simultaneous inhibition of mitotic exit and additional cell cycle phases would likely achieve synergistic antitumor effects. In this review, we divide the molecular regulators of mitotic exit into four categories based on their different regulatory functions: 1) the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C, a ubiquitin ligase), 2) cyclin B, 3) mitotic kinases and phosphatases, 4) kinesins and microtubule-binding proteins. We also review the regulators of mitotic exit and propose prospective anticancer strategies targeting mitotic exit, including their strengths and possible challenges to their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Liu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yuchen Chen
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yangkai Li
- Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Robert B Petersen
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858, USA
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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Jin Q, Huang F, Wang X, Zhu H, Xian Y, Li J, Zhang S, Ni Q. High Eg5 expression predicts poor prognosis in breast cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 8:62208-62216. [PMID: 28977938 PMCID: PMC5617498 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Eg5 is a motor protein belonging to the kinesin-5 family and has been suggested to exert important function in tumors. In this study, we determined the mRNA and protein expression levels of Eg5 in cancerous and non-cancerous breast tissue by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and tissue microarray immunohistochemistry analysis (TMA-IHC) respectively. The results of 20 fresh-frozen BC samples demonstrated that Eg5 mRNA levels were significantly higher in BC tissues compared with corresponding non-cancerous tissue (p = 0.0009). TMA-IHC analysis in 127 BC tissues revealed that Eg5 expression obviously correlated with clinicopathologial parameters, including tumor grade (p = 0.004), ER status (p = 0.030), Ki67 status (p = 0.005), molecular classification (p = 0.026), N stage (p = 0.015), and TNM stage (p = 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival curve indicated that high Eg5 expression (p = 0.012), Ki67 status (p = 0.014) and TNM stage (p = 0.026) were independent factors to predict poor prognosis for patients with breast cancer. Our data suggest that Eg5 is not only overexpressed in BC, it may be also served as a potential prognostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Jin
- Department of Pathlogy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Department of Pathlogy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xudong Wang
- Surgical Comprehensive Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huijun Zhu
- Department of Pathlogy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun Xian
- Health Insurance Office, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jieying Li
- Department of Pathlogy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Pathlogy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qichao Ni
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
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Abstract
Mutations in cancer cells frequently result in cell cycle alterations that lead to unrestricted growth compared to normal cells. Considering this phenomenon, many drugs have been developed to inhibit different cell-cycle phases. Mitotic phase targeting disturbs mitosis in tumor cells, triggers the spindle assembly checkpoint and frequently results in cell death. The first anti-mitotics to enter clinical trials aimed to target tubulin. Although these drugs improved the treatment of certain cancers, and many anti-microtubule compounds are already approved for clinical use, severe adverse events such as neuropathies were observed. Since then, efforts have been focused on the development of drugs that also target kinases, motor proteins and multi-protein complexes involved in mitosis. In this review, we summarize the major proteins involved in the mitotic phase that can also be targeted for cancer treatment. Finally, we address the activity of anti-mitotic drugs tested in clinical trials in recent years.
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Infante JR, Patnaik A, Verschraegen CF, Olszanski AJ, Shaheen M, Burris HA, Tolcher AW, Papadopoulos KP, Beeram M, Hynes SM, Leohr J, Lin AB, Li LQ, McGlothlin A, Farrington DL, Westin EH, Cohen RB. Two Phase 1 dose-escalation studies exploring multiple regimens of litronesib (LY2523355), an Eg5 inhibitor, in patients with advanced cancer. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2017; 79:315-326. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-016-3205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Lu M, Zhu H, Wang X, Zhang D, Xiong L, Xu L, You Y. The prognostic role of Eg5 expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Pathology 2016; 48:214-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Ohashi A, Ohori M, Iwai K, Nambu T, Miyamoto M, Kawamoto T, Okaniwa M. A Novel Time-Dependent CENP-E Inhibitor with Potent Antitumor Activity. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144675. [PMID: 26649895 PMCID: PMC4674098 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Centromere-associated protein E (CENP-E) regulates both chromosome congression and the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) during mitosis. The loss of CENP-E function causes chromosome misalignment, leading to SAC activation and apoptosis during prolonged mitotic arrest. Here, we describe the biological and antiproliferative activities of a novel small-molecule inhibitor of CENP-E, Compound-A (Cmpd-A). Cmpd-A inhibits the ATPase activity of the CENP-E motor domain, acting as a time-dependent inhibitor with an ATP-competitive-like behavior. Cmpd-A causes chromosome misalignment on the metaphase plate, leading to prolonged mitotic arrest. Treatment with Cmpd-A induces antiproliferation in multiple cancer cell lines. Furthermore, Cmpd-A exhibits antitumor activity in a nude mouse xenograft model, and this antitumor activity is accompanied by the elevation of phosphohistone H3 levels in tumors. These findings demonstrate the potency of the CENP-E inhibitor Cmpd-A and its potential as an anticancer therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Ohashi
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Momoko Ohori
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Kenichi Iwai
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Nambu
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Maki Miyamoto
- DMPK Research Laboratories, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kawamoto
- Biomolecular Research Laboratories, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Masanori Okaniwa
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
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Mitotic slippage and expression of survivin are linked to differential sensitivity of human cancer cell-lines to the Kinesin-5 inhibitor monastrol. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129255. [PMID: 26035434 PMCID: PMC4452773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mitotic Kinesin-5 motor proteins crosslink and slide apart antiparallel spindle microtubules, thus performing essential functions in mitotic spindle dynamics. Specific inhibition of their function by monastrol-like small molecules has been examined in clinical trials as anticancer treatment, with only partial success. Thus, strategies that improve the efficiency of monastrol-like anticancer drugs are required. In the current study, we examined the link between sensitivity to monastrol and occurrence of mitotic slippage in several human cell-lines. We found that the rank of sensitivity to monastrol, from most sensitive to least sensitive, is: AGS > HepG2 > Lovo > Du145 ≥ HT29. We show correlation between the sensitivity of a particular cell-line to monastrol and the tendency of the same cell-line to undergo mitotic slippage. We also found that in the monastrol resistant HT29 cells, prolonged monastrol treatments increase mRNA and protein levels of the chromosomal passenger protein survivin. In contrast, survivin levels are not increased by this treatment in the monastrol-sensitive AGS cells. We further show that over-expression of survivin in the monastrol-sensitive AGS cells reduces mitotic slippage and increases resistance to monastrol. Finally, we show that during short exposure to monastrol, Si RNA silencing of survivin expression reduces cell viability in both AGS and HT29 cells. Our data suggest that the efficiency of anti-cancer treatment with specific kinesin-5 inhibitors may be improved by modulation of expression levels of survivin.
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Liu X, Zhou Y, Liu X, Peng A, Gong H, Huang L, Ji K, Petersen RB, Zheng L, Huang K. MPHOSPH1: a potential therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Res 2014; 74:6623-34. [PMID: 25269478 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-1279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
MPHOSPH1 is a critical kinesin protein that functions in cytokinesis. Here, we show that MPHOSPH1 is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, where it is essential for proliferation. Attenuating MPHOSPH1 expression with a tumor-selective shRNA-expressing adenovirus (Ad-shMPP1) was sufficient to arrest HCC cell proliferation in a manner associated with an accumulation of multinucleated polyploid cells, induction of postmitotic apoptosis, and increased sensitivity to taxol cytotoxicity. Mechanistic investigations showed that attenuation of MPHOSPH1 stabilized p53, blocked STAT3 phosphorylation, and prolonged mitotic arrest. In a mouse subcutaneous xenograft model of HCC, tumoral injection of Ad-shMPP1 inhibited MPHOSPH1 expression and tumor growth in a manner correlated with induction of apoptosis. Combining Ad-shMPP1 injection with taxol administration enhanced antitumor efficacy relative to taxol alone. Furthermore, Ad-shMPP1 tail vein injection suppressed formation of orthotopic liver nodules and prevented hepatic dysfunction. Taken together, our results identify MPHOSPH1 as an oncogenic driver and candidate therapeutic target in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Liu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China. Centre for Biomedicine Research, Wuhan Institute of Biotechnology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yafan Zhou
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Hao Gong
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lizi Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaige Ji
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Robert B Petersen
- Departments of Pathology, Neuroscience and Neurology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ling Zheng
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China. Centre for Biomedicine Research, Wuhan Institute of Biotechnology, Wuhan, China.
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A phase I, dose-escalation study of the Eg5-inhibitor EMD 534085 in patients with advanced solid tumors or lymphoma. Invest New Drugs 2014; 31:1530-8. [PMID: 24077982 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-013-0026-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The kinesin spindle protein Eg5 is involved in mitosis, and its inhibition promotes mitotic arrest. EMD 534085, a potent, reversible Eg5 inhibitor, demonstrated significant preclinical antitumor activity. METHODS This first-in-man, single-center, open-label, phase I dose-escalation study (3 + 3 design) investigated EMD 534085 safety, pharmacokinetics and antitumor activity in refractory solid tumors, Hodgkin's lymphoma, or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. EMD 534085 (starting dose 2 mg/m²/day) was administered intravenously every 3 weeks. Doses were escalated in 100% steps in successive cohorts of 3 patients until grade 2 toxicity occurred, followed by 50% until the first dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) arose. If <2 of 6 patients experienced a DLT, doses were further increased by 25%. Dose-escalation was stopped if a DLT occurred in ≥2 of 6 patients. RESULTS Forty-four patients received EMD 534085. Median treatment duration was 43 days (range, 21-337). Thirty-eight patients (86%) received ≥2 cycles. DLTs were grade 4 neutropenia (1 patient each at 108 and 135 mg/m²/day), and grade 3 acute coronary syndrome with troponin I elevation (1 patient at 135 mg/m²/day). The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was 108 mg/m²/day. The most common treatment-related adverse events were asthenia (50%) and neutropenia (32%). EMD 534085 appeared to have linear pharmacokinetics. Increase in phospho-histone H3 positive cells in paired pre- and on-treatment biopsies showed evidence of target modulation. No complete or partial responses were observed. Best response was stable disease in 23 patients (52%). CONCLUSIONS EMD 534085 appeared to be well tolerated; MTD was 108 mg/m²/day. Preliminary antitumor results suggested limited activity in monotherapy.
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Ding S, Zhao Z, Sun D, Wu F, Bi D, Lu J, Xing N, Sun L, Wu H, Ding K. Eg5 inhibitor, a novel potent targeted therapy, induces cell apoptosis in renal cell carcinoma. Tumour Biol 2014; 35:7659-68. [PMID: 24801905 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2022-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Eg5 is critical for mitosis and overexpressed in various malignant tumors, which has now been identified as a promising target in cancer therapy. However, the anti-cancer activity of Eg5 inhibitor in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains an open issue. In this paper, we evaluated, for the first time, the therapeutic benefit of blocking Eg5 by S-(methoxytrityl)-L-cysteine (S(MeO)TLC) in RCC both in vitro and vivo. The expression of Eg5 was examined in clinical tissue samples and various kidney cell lines, including 293T, 786-0, and OS-RC-2. The anti-proliferative activity of Eg5 inhibitors, (S)-trityl-L-cysteine (STLC) and S(MeO)TLC, was evaluated by a cell viability assay. An apoptosis assay with Hoechst nuclear staining and flow cytometry was applied to investigate the efficacy of the S(MeO)TLC, which is more potent than STLC. Immunofluorescence was used to research the possible mechanism. Furthermore, in vivo studies were performed by using subcutaneous xenograft models, which were used to confirm its role as a potential anti-neoplastic drug. The Eg5 expression was detected in kidney cell lines and RCC tissues, which was low in normal kidney samples. STLC and S(MeO)TLC exhibited their optimal anti-proliferative activity in 72 h, and cells treated with S(MeO)TLC presented characteristic monoastral spindle phenotype in 24 h and apoptotic cells in 48 h. In vivo, S(MeO)TLC effectively suppressed tumor growth in subcutaneous xenograft models. Inhibition of Eg5 represses the proliferation of RCC in vitro and in vivo. All these findings collectively demonstrate that S(MeO)TLC, a potent Eg5 inhibitor, is a promising anti-cancer agent for the treatment of RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sentai Ding
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China,
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Nyamaa B, Kim HK, Jeong YJ, Song IS, Han J. Kinesin Spindle Protein Inhibition in Translational Research. J Lipid Atheroscler 2014. [DOI: 10.12997/jla.2014.3.2.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bayalagmaa Nyamaa
- National Research Laboratory for Mitochondrial Signaling, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Center, Inje University, Busan, Korea
| | - Hyoung Kyu Kim
- National Research Laboratory for Mitochondrial Signaling, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Center, Inje University, Busan, Korea
| | - Yu Jeong Jeong
- National Research Laboratory for Mitochondrial Signaling, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Center, Inje University, Busan, Korea
| | - In-Sung Song
- National Research Laboratory for Mitochondrial Signaling, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Center, Inje University, Busan, Korea
| | - Jin Han
- National Research Laboratory for Mitochondrial Signaling, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Center, Inje University, Busan, Korea
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Talapatra SK, Anthony NG, Mackay SP, Kozielski F. Mitotic kinesin Eg5 overcomes inhibition to the phase I/II clinical candidate SB743921 by an allosteric resistance mechanism. J Med Chem 2013; 56:6317-29. [PMID: 23875972 DOI: 10.1021/jm4006274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Development of drug resistance during cancer chemotherapy is one of the major causes of chemotherapeutic failure for the majority of clinical agents. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of resistance developed by the mitotic kinesin Eg5 against the potent second-generation ispinesib analogue SB743921 (1), a phase I/II clinical candidate. Biochemical and biophysical data demonstrate that point mutations in the inhibitor-binding pocket decrease the efficacy of 1 by several 1000-fold. Surprisingly, the structures of wild-type and mutant Eg5 in complex with 1 display no apparent structural changes in the binding configuration of the drug candidate. Furthermore, ITC and modeling approaches reveal that resistance to 1 is not through conventional steric effects at the binding site but through reduced flexibility and changes in energy fluctuation pathways through the protein that influence its function. This is a phenomenon we have called "resistance by allostery".
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep K Talapatra
- The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BS, Scotland, U.K.
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Jiang C, You Q. Kinesin spindle protein inhibitors in cancer: a patent review (2008 - present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2013; 23:1547-60. [PMID: 23978071 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2013.833606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inhibition of kinesin spindle protein (KSP) has emerged as a novel and validated therapeutic strategy against cancers. A lot of new KSP inhibitors have been identified in recent years and some of them have entered clinical trials. This may provide more selections in future cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED In the present review, the authors will describe the most recent classes of KSP inhibitors by reviewing about 96 literatures in which 24 patent applications were included from 2008 to now. EXPERT OPINION Many new KSP inhibitors have been discovered that act either by binding in an allosteric site of KSP or by ATP competitive inhibition. There are several ATP non-competitive KSP inhibitors entering clinical investigation. Although they were both well tolerated and showed acceptable pharmacokinetic profiles, limited clinical response was always the problem. Mutation of the binding pocket was also a hindrance in the development of these allosteric inhibitors. The appearance of ATP competitive KSP inhibitors was considered to be able to overcome mutation-mediated resistance to the allosteric inhibitors, which could be a new approach for the development of novel KSP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Jiang
- China Pharmaceutical University, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization , Nanjing 210009 , China
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Kinesin-5: cross-bridging mechanism to targeted clinical therapy. Gene 2013; 531:133-49. [PMID: 23954229 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Kinesin motor proteins comprise an ATPase superfamily that works hand in hand with microtubules in every eukaryote. The mitotic kinesins, by virtue of their potential therapeutic role in cancerous cells, have been a major focus of research for the past 28 years since the discovery of the canonical Kinesin-1 heavy chain. Perhaps the simplest player in mitotic spindle assembly, Kinesin-5 (also known as Kif11, Eg5, or kinesin spindle protein, KSP) is a plus-end-directed motor localized to interpolar spindle microtubules and to the spindle poles. Comprised of a homotetramer complex, its function primarily is to slide anti-parallel microtubules apart from one another. Based on multi-faceted analyses of this motor from numerous laboratories over the years, we have learned a great deal about the function of this motor at the atomic level for catalysis and as an integrated element of the cytoskeleton. These data have, in turn, informed the function of motile kinesins on the whole, as well as spearheaded integrative models of the mitotic apparatus in particular and regulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton in general. We review what is known about how this nanomotor works, its place inside the cytoskeleton of cells, and its small-molecule inhibitors that provide a toolbox for understanding motor function and for anticancer treatment in the clinic.
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Viswanath ANI, Pae AN. Resistance by allostery: a novel perspective for eg5-targeted drug design. J Med Chem 2013; 56:6314-6. [PMID: 23899248 DOI: 10.1021/jm401071u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Talapatra et al. elucidated the molecular basis of resistance by characterizing the binding interactions between Eg5 and the allosteric inhibitor SB743921. The investigation, employing biochemical, biophysical, and structural analyses, made path-breaking revelations in Eg5 studies and discussed a novel phenomenon "resistance by allostery", which could have far-reaching consequences from a rational drug design perspective.
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Liu X, Gong H, Huang K. Oncogenic role of kinesin proteins and targeting kinesin therapy. Cancer Sci 2013; 104:651-6. [PMID: 23438337 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The kinesin superfamily (KIF) is a group of proteins that share a highly conserved motor domain. Except for some members, many KIF proteins have adenosine triphosphatase activity and microtubule-dependent plus-end motion ability. Kinesins participate in several essential cellular functions, including mitosis, meiosis and the transport of macromolecules. Increasing evidence indicates kinesin proteins play critical roles in the genesis and development of human cancers. Some kinesin proteins are associated with maligancy as well as drug resistance of solid tumor. Thus, targeting KIF therapy seems to be a promising anticancer strategy. Inhibitors of KIF such as kinesin spindle protein (KSP/Eg5) have entered clinical trials for monotherapy or in combination with other drugs, and kinesins other than Eg5 with various potential anticancer target characteristics are also constantly being discovered and studied. Here, we summarize the oncogenic roles of kinesin proteins and potential cancer therapy strategies that target KIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Liu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Martens-de Kemp SR, Nagel R, Stigter-van Walsum M, van der Meulen IH, van Beusechem VW, Braakhuis BJM, Brakenhoff RH. Functional genetic screens identify genes essential for tumor cell survival in head and neck and lung cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:1994-2003. [PMID: 23444224 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-2539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite continuous improvement of treatment regimes, the mortality rates for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain disappointingly high and novel anticancer agents are urgently awaited. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We combined the data from genome-wide siRNA screens on tumor cell lethality in a lung and a head and neck cancer cell line. RESULTS We identified 71 target genes that seem essential for the survival of both cancer types. We identified a cluster of 20 genes that play an important role during G2-M phase transition, underlining the importance of this cell-cycle checkpoint for tumor cell survival. Five genes from this cluster (CKAP5, KPNB1, RAN, TPX2, and KIF11) were evaluated in more detail and have been shown to be essential for tumor cell survival in both tumor types, but most particularly in HNSCC. Phenotypes that were observed following siRNA-mediated knockdown of KIF11 (kinesin family member 11) were reproduced by inhibition of KIF11 using the small-molecule inhibitor ispinesib (SB-715992). We showed that ispinesib induces a G2 arrest, causes aberrant chromosome segregation, and induces cell death in HNSCC in vitro, whereas primary keratinocytes are less sensitive. Furthermore, growth of HNSCC cells engrafted in immunodeficient mice was significantly inhibited after ispinesib treatment. CONCLUSION This study identified a wide array of druggable genes for both lung and head and neck cancer. In particular, multiple genes involved in the G2-M checkpoint were shown to be essential for tumor cell survival, indicating their potential as anticancer targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne R Martens-de Kemp
- AuDepartment of Otolaryngology/Head-Neck Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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El-Nassan HB. Advances in the discovery of kinesin spindle protein (Eg5) inhibitors as antitumor agents. Eur J Med Chem 2013; 62:614-31. [PMID: 23434636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2013.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 01/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is considered as one of the most serious health problems. Despite the presence of many effective chemotherapeutic agents, their severe side effects together with the appearance of mutant tumors limit the use of these drugs and increase the need for new anticancer agents. Eg5 represents an attractive target for medicinal chemists since Eg5 is overexpressed in many proliferative tissues while almost no Eg5 is detected in nonproliferative tissues. Many Eg5 inhibitors displayed potent anticancer activity against some of the mutant tumors with limited side effects. The present review provides an overview about the progress in the discovery of Eg5 inhibitors especially from 2009 to 2012 as well as the clinical trials conducted on some of these inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala Bakr El-Nassan
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, 33 Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
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41
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Sun D, Lu J, Ding K, Bi D, Niu Z, Cao Q, Zhang J, Ding S. The expression of Eg5 predicts a poor outcome for patients with renal cell carcinoma. Med Oncol 2013; 30:476. [PMID: 23371254 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-013-0476-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Eg5 is a member of the kinesin family of proteins, which associates with bipolar spindle formation in dividing tumor cells during mitosis. The aim of our study is to investigate the prognostic role of Eg5 expression in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). RCC tissue specimens from 164 consecutively treated patients who underwent surgery between 2005 and 2011 were evaluated. The Eg5 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry, and correlated with clinicopathological parameters. The prognostic significance of Eg5 expression was explored using the univariate and multivariate survival analysis of 164 patients who were followed; one hundred and sixty-four tissue specimens "of patients" who were regularly followed with the mean 35.8 months (from 5 to 80 months). The expression of Eg5 was significantly associated with tumor nuclear grade (P = 0.019) and stage (P = 0.007), as well as tumor size (P = 0.033). In univariate analysis, Eg5 overexpression showed unfavorable influence on recurrence-free survival with statistical significance (P = 0.003). Clinical stage, nuclear grade and tumor size also showed strong statistical relation with adverse recurrence-free survival (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor stage, nuclear grade and Eg5 reactivity (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, P = 0.032) were identified as independent prognostic factors for recurrence-free survival in patients with RCC. In our opinion, the result of this study proved the relationship between Eg5 expression and worse clinical outcome in RCC. This finding suggested that Eg5 served as a prognostic factor, which could be useful to predict cancer evolution and provide appropriate treatments for RCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingqi Sun
- Department of Urology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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42
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Tabernero J, Shapiro GI, LoRusso PM, Cervantes A, Schwartz GK, Weiss GJ, Paz-Ares L, Cho DC, Infante JR, Alsina M, Gounder MM, Falzone R, Harrop J, White ACS, Toudjarska I, Bumcrot D, Meyers RE, Hinkle G, Svrzikapa N, Hutabarat RM, Clausen VA, Cehelsky J, Nochur SV, Gamba-Vitalo C, Vaishnaw AK, Sah DWY, Gollob JA, Burris HA. First-in-humans trial of an RNA interference therapeutic targeting VEGF and KSP in cancer patients with liver involvement. Cancer Discov 2013; 3:406-17. [PMID: 23358650 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-12-0429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 485] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED RNA interference (RNAi) is a potent and specific mechanism for regulating gene expression. Harnessing RNAi to silence genes involved in disease holds promise for the development of a new class of therapeutics. Delivery is key to realizing the potential of RNAi, and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) have proved effective in delivery of siRNAs to the liver and to tumors in animals. To examine the activity and safety of LNP-formulated siRNAs in humans, we initiated a trial of ALN-VSP, an LNP formulation of siRNAs targeting VEGF and kinesin spindle protein (KSP), in patients with cancer. Here, we show detection of drug in tumor biopsies, siRNA-mediated mRNA cleavage in the liver, pharmacodynamics suggestive of target downregulation, and antitumor activity, including complete regression of liver metastases in endometrial cancer. In addition, we show that biweekly intravenous administration of ALN-VSP was safe and well tolerated. These data provide proof-of-concept for RNAi therapeutics in humans and form the basis for further development in cancer. SIGNIFICANCE The fi ndings in this report show safety, pharmacokinetics, RNAi mechanism of action, and clinical activity with a novel fi rst-in-class LNP-formulated RNAi therapeutic in patients with cancer. The ability to harness RNAi to facilitate specifi c multitargeting, as well as increase the number of druggable targets, has important implications for future drug development in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Tabernero
- Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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43
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Jones R, Vuky J, Elliott T, Mead G, Arranz JA, Chester J, Chowdhury S, Dudek AZ, Müller-Mattheis V, Grimm MO, Gschwend JE, Wülfing C, Albers P, Li J, Osmukhina A, Skolnik J, Hudes G. Phase II study to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of the mitotic spindle kinesin inhibitor AZD4877 in patients with recurrent advanced urothelial cancer. Invest New Drugs 2013; 31:1001-7. [PMID: 23329066 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-013-9926-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AZD4877 is a potent inhibitor of the mitotic spindle kinesin, Eg5. Early-phase clinical studies in a broad range of cancers showed that AZD4877 is well tolerated. This Phase II study evaluated the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics (Cmax) of AZD4877 in patients with previously treated advanced urothelial cancer (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00661609). PATIENTS AND METHODS AZD4877 25 mg was administered once-weekly for 3 weeks of each 4-week cycle until disease progression, death, unacceptable toxicity or withdrawal. The primary objective was to determine the objective response rate (RECIST). Recruitment was to be halted if ≤ 2 of the first 20 evaluable patients achieved an objective tumor response. Cmax was assessed on days 1 and 8 of cycle 1. RESULTS None of the first 20 patients evaluable for efficacy achieved an objective response; enrollment was therefore halted. During this initial analysis, a further 21 patients were recruited. Overall, 39 patients were evaluable for efficacy, including one with confirmed partial response (PR) and seven patients with stable disease for ≥ 8 weeks (including one unconfirmed PR). The most commonly reported treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were neutropenia (22 patients), fatigue (12), leukopenia (7) and constipation (6); the most commonly reported grade ≥ 3 TRAE was neutropenia (21). Four patients had serious TRAEs. On days 1 and 8, the geometric mean Cmax of AZD4877 was 138 ng/ml (CV = 75 %) and 144 ng/ml (CV = 109 %), respectively. CONCLUSIONS AZD4877 was generally tolerable in patients with advanced urothelial cancer. Given the limited clinical efficacy, further development of AZD4877 in urothelial cancer is not planned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Jones
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow, UK.
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44
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Abstract
Kinesins are a family of molecular motors that travel unidirectionally along microtubule tracks to fulfil their many roles in intracellular transport or cell division. Over the past few years kinesins that are involved in mitosis have emerged as potential targets for cancer drug development. Several compounds that inhibit two mitotic kinesins (EG5 (also known as KIF11) and centromere-associated protein E (CENPE)) have entered Phase I and II clinical trials either as monotherapies or in combination with other drugs. Additional mitotic kinesins are currently being validated as drug targets, raising the possibility that the range of kinesin-based drug targets may expand in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Rath
- The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, UK
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45
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Wang F, Good JAD, Rath O, Kaan HYK, Sutcliffe OB, Mackay SP, Kozielski F. Triphenylbutanamines: kinesin spindle protein inhibitors with in vivo antitumor activity. J Med Chem 2012; 55:1511-25. [PMID: 22248262 PMCID: PMC3428805 DOI: 10.1021/jm201195m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
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The human mitotic kinesin Eg5 represents a novel mitotic
spindle target for cancer chemotherapy. We previously identified S-trityl-l-cysteine (STLC) and related analogues
as selective potent inhibitors of Eg5. We herein report on the development
of a series of 4,4,4-triphenylbutan-1-amine inhibitors derived from
the STLC scaffold. This new generation systematically improves on
potency: the most potent C-trityl analogues exhibit Kiapp ≤ 10 nM and GI50 ≈ 50 nM, comparable to results from the phase II clinical
benchmark ispinesib. Crystallographic studies reveal that they adopt
the same overall binding configuration as S-trityl
analogues at an allosteric site formed by loop L5 of Eg5. Evaluation
of their druglike properties reveals favorable profiles for future
development and, in the clinical candidate ispinesib, moderate hERG
and CYP inhibition. One triphenylbutanamine analogue and ispinesib
possess very good bioavailability (51% and 45%, respectively), with
the former showing in vivo antitumor growth activity in nude mice
xenograft studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Molecular Motor Laboratory, The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, Scotland, UK.
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Rodriguez D, Ramesh C, Henson LH, Wilmeth L, Bryant BK, Kadavakollu S, Hirsch R, Montoya J, Howell PR, George JM, Alexander D, Johnson DL, Arterburn JB, Shuster CB. Synthesis and characterization of tritylthioethanamine derivatives with potent KSP inhibitory activity. Bioorg Med Chem 2011; 19:5446-53. [PMID: 21855351 PMCID: PMC3171608 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2011.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2011] [Revised: 07/21/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Assembly of a bipolar mitotic spindle requires the action of class 5 kinesins, and inhibition or depletion of this motor results in mitotic arrest and apoptosis. S-Trityl-l-cysteine is an allosteric inhibitor of vertebrate Kinesin Spindle Protein (KSP) that has generated considerable interest due to its anti-cancer properties, however, poor pharmacological properties have limited the use of this compound. We have modified the triphenylmethyl and cysteine groups, guided by biochemical and cell-based assays, to yield new cysteinol and cysteamine derivatives with increased inhibitory activity, greater efficacy in model systems, and significantly enhanced potency against the NCI60 tumor panel. These results reveal a promising new class of conformationally-flexible small molecules as allosteric KSP inhibitors for use as research tools, with activities that provide impetus for further development as anti-tumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delany Rodriguez
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
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47
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Hsu LC, Durrant DE, Huang CC, Chi NW, Baruchello R, Rondanin R, Rullo C, Marchetti P, Grisolia G, Simoni D, Lee RM. Development of hemiasterlin derivatives as potential anticancer agents that inhibit tubulin polymerization and synergize with a stilbene tubulin inhibitor. Invest New Drugs 2011; 30:1379-88. [PMID: 21655917 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-011-9702-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hemiasterlins are cytotoxic tripeptides with antimicrotubule activity originally isolated from marine sponges. We have developed new hemiasterlin derivatives BF65 and BF78 that are highly potent to induce cancer cell death in the low nanomolar range. Examination of their mechanisms of cell cycle arrest and disruption of microtubules revealed an unusual characteristic in addition to anti-tubulin effect. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that A549 lung carcinoma cells treated with BF65 or BF78 exhibited both monopolar and multipolar mitotic spindles. Centrosomes were separated with short spindle microtubules in cells with multipolar spindles. In vitro tubulin polymerization assay confirmed that both BF65 and BF78 were highly potent to inhibit tubulin polymerization. These two compounds induced the formation of monoastral spindles suggesting that they might be inhibitors of mitotic kinesins such as KSP/Eg5. However, kinetic measurement of microtubule activated kinesin ATPase activity demonstrated that unlike the positive control monastrol, neither BF65 nor BF78 suppressed KSP/Eg5 activity. Hence the effect may be a variant form of tubulin inhibition. Similar to vinca alkaloids, BF compounds synergized with a colchicine site microtubule inhibitor stilbene 5c both in vitro and in vivo, which may provide a potential drug combination in the future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lih-Ching Hsu
- School of Pharmacy, National Taiwan University, 12F, No 1, Section 1, Jen-Ai Road, Taipei 10051, Taiwan.
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Infante JR, Kurzrock R, Spratlin J, Burris HA, Eckhardt SG, Li J, Wu K, Skolnik JM, Hylander-Gans L, Osmukhina A, Huszar D, Herbst RS. A Phase I study to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of AZD4877, an intravenous Eg5 inhibitor in patients with advanced solid tumors. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2011; 69:165-72. [PMID: 21638123 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-011-1667-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Inhibition of kinesin spindle protein or Eg5 causes the formation of monoastral mitotic spindles, which leads to cell death. AZD4877 is a specific, potent inhibitor of Eg5. METHODS This was a Phase I, open-label, two-part study to evaluate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and safety and tolerability of AZD4877 in patients with advanced solid malignancies. In part A, the MTD of AZD4877, administered as three weekly 1-h intravenous (iv) infusions in a 28-day schedule, was determined by evaluating dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). In part B, the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of AZD4877 at the MTD were evaluated. RESULTS In part A, 29 patients received at least one dose of AZD4877 (5 mg, n = 4; 7.5 mg, n = 4; 10 mg, n = 3; 15 mg, n = 3; 20 mg, n = 3; 30 mg, n = 6; 36 mg, n = 3; 45 mg, n = 3). The MTD was defined as 30 mg, with the primary DLT being neutropenia. Although exposures appeared to be similar at the AZD4877 20 and 30 mg doses, dose reductions and omissions were higher in the 30-mg cohort; therefore, an intermediate dose, 25 mg, was evaluated in part B (n = 14). In part B, neutropenia remained the most commonly reported causally related adverse event. Exposure to AZD4877 was approximately dose proportional. Severity of neutropenia was related to exposure. CONCLUSION The MTD of AZD4877 given as a 1-h iv infusion on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle was 30 mg. At the selected 25 mg dose, AZD4877 had an acceptable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Infante
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Nashville, TN, USA
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49
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Esaki T, Seto T, Ariyama H, Arita S, Fujimoto C, Tsukasa K, Kometani T, Nosaki K, Hirai F, Yagawa K. Phase I Study to Assess the Safety, Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of AZD4877 in Japanese Patients with Solid Tumors. ARCHIVES OF DRUG INFORMATION 2011; 4:23-31. [PMID: 21765863 PMCID: PMC3130141 DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-5174.2011.00034.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: AZD4877 is a potent Eg5 inhibitor that has been shown to have an acceptable tolerability profile in a Phase I study of Western patients with solid tumors. This study was conducted to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetic (PK) profile, maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and efficacy of AZD4877 in a Japanese population with solid tumors. METHODS: In this Phase I, open-label, dose-escalation study, AZD4877 (10, 15, 20 or 25 mg) was administered as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on days 1, 8 and 15 of repeated 28-day cycles to Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors. Adverse events (AEs) were evaluated according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 3.0. PK variables were assessed pre- and post dosing. The MTD of AZD4877 was determined by evaluating dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). Efficacy was evaluated by assessing best response according to Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors version 1.0. RESULTS: Of the 21 patients enrolled, 18 received at least one dose of AZD4877 (N = 3 in both the 10 and 15 mg cohorts, N = 6 in both the 20 and 25 mg cohorts). The most commonly reported AEs were fatigue and nausea (39% of patients each). One patient in each of the 20 and 25 mg cohorts experienced a DLT (neutropenia and febrile neutropenia). Dose escalation was halted at 25 mg and the MTD was not defined in this population. CTCAE grade ≥3 abnormal laboratory findings/vital signs were reported in 12 patients, with neutropenia (56%) and leukopenia (44%) being the most commonly reported. Exposure to AZD4877 was not fully dose proportional and AZD4877 clearance and elimination half-life appeared independent of dose. The best response to AZD4877 was stable disease in five of 16 evaluable patients. CONCLUSION: AZD4877 up to doses of 25 mg was well tolerated in Japanese patients. There was little evidence of clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taito Esaki
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Medical OncologyJapan
| | - Takashi Seto
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, National Kyushu Cancer CenterFukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Shuji Arita
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Medical OncologyJapan
| | | | | | - Takuro Kometani
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, National Kyushu Cancer CenterFukuoka, Japan
| | - Kaname Nosaki
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, National Kyushu Cancer CenterFukuoka, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Hirai
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, National Kyushu Cancer CenterFukuoka, Japan
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Tcherniuk S, Deshayes S, Sarli V, Divita G, Abrieu A. UA62784 Is a Cytotoxic Inhibitor of Microtubules, not CENP-E. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 18:631-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2011.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2010] [Revised: 02/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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