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Yu X, Hu W, Dong H, Zhao T, Wang X, Chen L, Xue S, Li JP, Luo SZ. Phase Separation Enhanced PROTAC for Highly Efficient Protein Degradation. Biomacromolecules 2024. [PMID: 38825770 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Biomacromolecular condensates formed via phase separation establish compartments for the enrichment of specific compositions, which is also used as a biological tool to enhance molecule condensation, thereby increasing the efficiency of biological processes. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been developed as powerful tools for targeted protein degradation in cells, offering a promising approach for therapies for different diseases. Herein, we introduce an intrinsically disordered region in the PROTAC (denoted PSETAC), which led to the formation of droplets of target proteins in the cells and increased degradation efficiency compared with PROTAC without phase separation. Further, using a nucleus targeting intrinsically disordered domain, the PSETAC was able to target and degrade nuclear-located proteins. Finally, we demonstrated intracellular delivery of PSETAC using lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA (mRNA-LNP) for the degradation of the endogenous target protein. This study established the PSETAC mRNA-LNP method as a potentially translatable, safe therapeutic strategy for the development of clinical applications based on PROTAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Wenrui Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Hang Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Tian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xiaotian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Long Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Song Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jin-Ping Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Uppsala, 751 05 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Shi-Zhong Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
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2
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Wang KN, Zhou K, Zhong NN, Cao LM, Li ZZ, Xiao Y, Wang GR, Huo FY, Zhou JJ, Liu B, Bu LL. Enhancing cancer therapy: The role of drug delivery systems in STAT3 inhibitor efficacy and safety. Life Sci 2024; 346:122635. [PMID: 38615745 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122635] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a member of the STAT family, resides in the nucleus to regulate genes essential for vital cellular functions, including survival, proliferation, self-renewal, angiogenesis, and immune response. However, continuous STAT3 activation in tumor cells promotes their initiation, progression, and metastasis, rendering STAT3 pathway inhibitors a promising avenue for cancer therapy. Nonetheless, these inhibitors frequently encounter challenges such as cytotoxicity and suboptimal biocompatibility in clinical trials. A viable strategy to mitigate these issues involves delivering STAT3 inhibitors via drug delivery systems (DDSs). This review delineates the regulatory mechanisms of the STAT3 signaling pathway and its association with cancer. It offers a comprehensive overview of the current application of DDSs for anti-STAT3 inhibitors and investigates the role of DDSs in cancer treatment. The conclusion posits that DDSs for anti-STAT3 inhibitors exhibit enhanced efficacy and reduced adverse effects in tumor therapy compared to anti-STAT3 inhibitors alone. This paper aims to provide an outline of the ongoing research and future prospects of DDSs for STAT3 inhibitors. Additionally, it presents our insights on the merits and future outlook of DDSs in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Kan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Lei-Ming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zi-Zhan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Guang-Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Fang-Yi Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial, Anyang Sixth People's Hospital, Anyang 45500, China.
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial - Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial - Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China.
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3
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Chen W, Wu Y, Xing D. New-generation advanced PROTACs as potential therapeutic agents in cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:110. [PMID: 38773495 PMCID: PMC11107062 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02024-9] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology has garnered significant attention over the last 10 years, representing a burgeoning therapeutic approach with the potential to address pathogenic proteins that have historically posed challenges for traditional small-molecule inhibitors. PROTACs exploit the endogenous E3 ubiquitin ligases to facilitate degradation of the proteins of interest (POIs) through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in a cyclic catalytic manner. Despite recent endeavors to advance the utilization of PROTACs in clinical settings, the majority of PROTACs fail to progress beyond the preclinical phase of drug development. There are multiple factors impeding the market entry of PROTACs, with the insufficiently precise degradation of favorable POIs standing out as one of the most formidable obstacles. Recently, there has been exploration of new-generation advanced PROTACs, including small-molecule PROTAC prodrugs, biomacromolecule-PROTAC conjugates, and nano-PROTACs, to improve the in vivo efficacy of PROTACs. These improved PROTACs possess the capability to mitigate undesirable physicochemical characteristics inherent in traditional PROTACs, thereby enhancing their targetability and reducing off-target side effects. The new-generation of advanced PROTACs will mark a pivotal turning point in the realm of targeted protein degradation. In this comprehensive review, we have meticulously summarized the state-of-the-art advancements achieved by these cutting-edge PROTACs, elucidated their underlying design principles, deliberated upon the prevailing challenges encountered, and provided an insightful outlook on future prospects within this burgeoning field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Wujun Chen
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Yudong Wu
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
| | - Dongming Xing
- Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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4
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Ma J, Fang L, Sun Z, Li M, Fan T, Xiang G, Ma X. Folate-PEG-PROTAC Micelles for Enhancing Tumor-Specific Targeting Proteolysis In Vivo. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400109. [PMID: 38676445 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400109] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology is rapidly developed as a novel and selective medicinal strategy for the degradation of cellular proteins in cancer therapy. However, the applications of PROTACs as heterobifunctional molecules are largely limited by high molecular weight, low bioavailability, poor permeability, insufficient targeting, and low efficacy in vivo. Herein, self-assembling micelles of FA-PEG-PROTAC are designed for cancer cell selective targeting and reductive-response proteolysis in tumor-bearing mice. FA-PEG-PROTAC is prepared by conjugating folic acid (FA)-PEG with EGFR-targeting PROTAC via a disulfide bond. The FA-PEG-PROTAC micelles, formed by self-assembling, are demonstrated to significantly improve tumor targeting efficacy and exhibit excellent anti-tumor efficacy in the mouse xenograft model compared to the traditional PROTACs. The strategy of applying self-assembled FA-PEG-PROTAC micelles in tumor therapy can not only improve targeted proteolysis efficiency but also broaden applications in the development of PROTAC-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lei Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhengjun Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meijing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ting Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Guangya Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongren Polytechnic College, Tongren, 554300, China
- Institute of the Higher Education Edible and Medicinal Fungi Engineering Research Center, Tongren, 554300, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongren Polytechnic College, Tongren, 554300, China
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5
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Wang Z, Yuan L, Liao X, Guo X, Chen J. Reducing PD-L1 Expression by Degraders and Downregulators as a Novel Strategy to Target the PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6027-6043. [PMID: 38598179 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02143] [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: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Targeting the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway has evolved into one of the most promising strategies for tumor immunotherapy. Thus far, multiple monoclonal antibody drugs have been approved for treating a variety of tumors, while the development of small-molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has lagged far behind, with only a few small-molecule inhibitors entering clinical trials. In addition to antibody drugs and small-molecule inhibitors, reducing the expression levels of PD-L1 has attracted extensive research interest as another promising strategy to target the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Herein, we analyze the structures and mechanisms of molecules that reduce PD-L1 expression and classify them as degraders and downregulators according to whether they directly bind to PD-L1. Moreover, we discuss the potential prospects for developing PD-L1-targeting drugs based on these molecules. It is hoped that this perspective will provide profound insights into the discovery of potent antitumor immunity drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaotong Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xia Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Oncology, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen 518100, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Xu MY, Zeng N, Liu CQ, Sun JX, An Y, Zhang SH, Xu JZ, Zhong XY, Ma SY, He HD, Hu J, Xia QD, Wang SG. Enhanced cellular therapy: revolutionizing adoptive cellular therapy. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:47. [PMID: 38664743 PMCID: PMC11046957 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00506-6] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced cellular therapy has emerged as a novel concept following the basis of cellular therapy. This treatment modality applied drugs or biotechnology to directly enhance or genetically modify cells to enhance the efficacy of adoptive cellular therapy (ACT). Drugs or biotechnology that enhance the killing ability of immune cells include immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) / antibody drugs, small molecule inhibitors, immunomodulatory factors, proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC), oncolytic virus (OV), etc. Firstly, overcoming the inhibitory tumor microenvironment (TME) can enhance the efficacy of ACT, which can be achieved by blocking the immune checkpoint. Secondly, cytokines or cytokine receptors can be expressed by genetic engineering or added directly to adoptive cells to enhance the migration and infiltration of adoptive cells to tumor cells. Moreover, multi-antigen chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) can be designed to enhance the specific recognition of tumor cell-related antigens, and OVs can also stimulate antigen release. In addition to inserting suicide genes into adoptive cells, PROTAC technology can be used as a safety switch or degradation agent of immunosuppressive factors to enhance the safety and efficacy of adoptive cells. This article comprehensively summarizes the mechanism, current situation, and clinical application of enhanced cellular therapy, describing potential improvements to adoptive cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yao Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Na Zeng
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chen-Qian Liu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jian-Xuan Sun
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ye An
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Han Zhang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jin-Zhou Xu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xing-Yu Zhong
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Si-Yang Ma
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hao-Dong He
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi-Dong Xia
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shao-Gang Wang
- Department and Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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7
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Wang Z, Lu X, Liu C, Huang F, Lu T, Chen Y, Liu L, Lu S. Discovery of FLT3-targeting PROTACs with potent antiproliferative activity against acute myeloid leukemia cells harboring FLT3 mutations. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116237. [PMID: 38387337 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116237] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients harboring Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations often suffer from poor prognosis and relapse. Targeted protein degradation utilizing proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) is considered as a novel therapeutic strategy in drug discovery and may be a promising modality to target FLT3 mutations for the development of potent anti-AML drugs. Herein, a kind of FLT3-targeting PROTACs was rationally developed based on a FLT3 inhibitor previously reported by us. The representative compound 35 showed potent and selective antiproliferative activities against AML cells harboring FLT3 mutations. Western blot assay demonstrated that compound 35 effectively induced the degradation of FLT3-ITD and decreased the phosphorylation levels of FLT3-ITD, AKT, STAT5 and ERK in MV4-11 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis illustrated that compound 35 strongly induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in MV4-11 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, compound 35 displayed favorable metabolic stability in in-vitro liver microsomes studies. Comparative molecular dynamic (MD) simulation studies further elucidated the underlying mechanism of compound 35 to stabilize the dynamic ensemble of the FLT3-compound 35-cereblon (CRBN) ternary complex. Taken together, compound 35 could serve as a lead molecule for developing FLT3 degraders against AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Wang
- ShenZhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, PR China; School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Xun Lu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Canlin Liu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Fei Huang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Tao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Yadong Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Design and Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
| | - Lifei Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, PR China.
| | - Shuai Lu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
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8
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Muli CS, Tarasov SG, Walters KJ. High-throughput assay exploiting disorder-to-order conformational switches: application to the proteasomal Rpn10:E6AP complex. Chem Sci 2024; 15:4041-4053. [PMID: 38487241 PMCID: PMC10935766 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc06370d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Conformational switching is pervasively driven by protein interactions, particularly for intrinsically disordered binding partners. We developed a dually orthogonal fluorescence-based assay to monitor such events, exploiting environmentally sensitive fluorophores. This assay is applied to E3 ligase E6AP, as its AZUL domain induces a disorder-to-order switch in an intrinsically disordered region of the proteasome, the so-named Rpn10 AZUL-binding domain (RAZUL). By testing various fluorophores, we developed an assay appropriate for high-throughput screening of Rpn10:E6AP-disrupting ligands. We found distinct positions in RAZUL for fluorophore labeling with either acrylodan or Atto610, which had disparate spectral responses to E6AP binding. E6AP caused a hypsochromic shift with increased fluorescence of acrylodan-RAZUL while decreasing fluorescence intensity of Atto610-RAZUL. Combining RAZUL labeled with either acrylodan or Atto610 into a common sample achieved robust and orthogonal measurement of the E6AP-induced conformational switch. This approach is generally applicable to disorder-to-order (or vice versa) transitions mediated by molecular interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine S Muli
- Protein Processing Section, Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Frederick MD 21702 USA
| | - Sergey G Tarasov
- Biophysics Resource, Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Frederick MD 21702 USA
| | - Kylie J Walters
- Protein Processing Section, Center for Structural Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Frederick MD 21702 USA
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9
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Huang L, Shao J, Lai W, Gu H, Yang J, Shi S, Wufoyrwoth S, Song Z, Zou Y, Xu Y, Zhu Q. Discovery of the first ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) degraders for cancer treatment. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116159. [PMID: 38325007 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The first examples of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) PROTACs were designed and synthesized. Among them, the most potent degrader, ZS-7, demonstrated selective and effective ATR degradation in ATM-deficient LoVo cells, with a DC50 value of 0.53 μM. Proteasome-mediated ATR degradation by ZS-7 lasted approximately 12 h after washout in the LoVo cell lines. Notably, ZS-7 demonstrated reasonable PK profiles and, as a single agent or in combination with cisplatin, showed improved antitumor activity and safety profiles compared with the parent inhibitor AZD6738 in a xenograft mouse model of LoVo human colorectal cancer cells upon intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Department of Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng, 224005, China
| | - Jialu Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wenwen Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Hongfeng Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Jieping Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Shi Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Shepherd Wufoyrwoth
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Zhe Song
- China Pharmaceutical University Center for Analysis and Testing, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yi Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Yungen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Qihua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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10
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Xie H, Zhang C. Potential of the nanoplatform and PROTAC interface to achieve targeted protein degradation through the Ubiquitin-Proteasome system. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116168. [PMID: 38310686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116168] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in selectively breaking down specific proteins. The ability of the UPS to target proteins effectively and expedite their removal has significantly contributed to the evolution of UPS-based targeted protein degradation (TPD) strategies. In particular, proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are an immensely promising tool due to their high efficiency, extensive target range, and negligible drug resistance. This breakthrough has overcome the limitations posed by traditionally "non-druggable" proteins. However, their high molecular weight and constrained solubility impede the delivery of PROTACs. Fortunately, the field of nanomedicine has experienced significant growth, enabling the delivery of PROTACs through nanoscale drug-delivery systems, which effectively improves the stability, solubility, drug distribution, tissue-specific accumulation, and stimulus-responsive release of PROTACs. This article reviews the mechanism of action attributed to PROTACs and their potential implications for clinical applications. Moreover, we present strategies involving nanoplatforms for the effective delivery of PROTACs and evaluate recent advances in targeting nanoplatforms to the UPS. Ultimately, an assessment is conducted to determine the feasibility of utilizing PROTACs and nanoplatforms for UPS-based TPD. The primary aim of this review is to provide innovative, reliable solutions to overcome the current challenges obstructing the effective use of PROTACs in the management of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this is a promising technology for improving the treatment status of major diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanshu Xie
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
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11
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Singh S, Srivastava P. Targeted Protein Degraders- The Druggability Perspective. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:539-554. [PMID: 37926234 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.10.023] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Targeted Protein degraders (TPDs) show promise in harnessing cellular machinery to eliminate disease-causing proteins, even those previously considered undruggable. Especially if protein turnover is low, targeted protein removal bestows lasting therapeutic effect over typical inhibition. The demonstrated safety and efficacy profile of clinical candidates has fueled the surge in the number of potential candidates across different therapeutic areas. As TPDs often do not comply with Lipinski's rule of five, developing novel TPDs and unlocking their full potential requires overcoming solubility, permeability and oral bioavailability challenges. Tailored in-vitro assays are key to precise profiling and optimization, propelling breakthroughs in targeted protein degradation.
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12
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Awadasseid A, Wang R, Sun S, Zhang F, Wu Y, Zhang W. Small molecule and PROTAC molecule experiments in vitro and in vivo, focusing on mouse PD-L1 and human PD-L1 differences as targets. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116257. [PMID: 38350367 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116257] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting PD-L1 have been licensed by the FDA for use in the treatment of cancer, demonstrating the effectiveness of blocking immune checkpoints, particularly the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Although mAb-based therapies have made great strides, they still have their limitations, and new small-molecule or PROTAC-molecule inhibitors that can block the PD-1/PD-L1 axis are desperately needed. Therefore, it is crucial to translate initial in vitro discoveries into appropriate in vivo animal models when creating PD-L1-blocking therapies. Due to their widespread availability and low experimental expenses, classical immunocompetent mice are appealing for research purposes. However, it is yet unclear whether the mouse (m) PD-L1 interaction with human (h) PD-1 in vivo would produce a functional immunological checkpoint. In this review, we summarize the in vitro and in vivo experimental studies of small molecules and PROTAC molecules, particularly the distinctions between mPD-L1 as a target and hPD-L1 as a target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annoor Awadasseid
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Moganshan Institute ZJUT, Deqing 313202, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Biochemistry & Food Sciences, University of Kordofan, El-Obeid 51111, Sudan
| | - Rui Wang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Shishi Sun
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Lab of Molecular Immunology, Virus Inspection Department, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China.
| | - Wen Zhang
- Lab of Chemical Biology and Molecular Drug Design, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
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13
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Lawer A, Schulz L, Sawyer R, Liu X. Harmony of Protein Tags and Chimeric Molecules Empowers Targeted Protein Ubiquitination and Beyond. Cells 2024; 13:426. [PMID: 38474390 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050426] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are crucial mechanisms that underlie the intricacies of biological systems and disease mechanisms. This review focuses on the latest advancements in the design of heterobifunctional small molecules that hijack PTM machineries for target-specific modifications in living systems. A key innovation in this field is the development of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), which promote the ubiquitination of target proteins for proteasomal degradation. The past decade has seen several adaptations of the PROTAC concept to facilitate targeted (de)phosphorylation and acetylation. Protein fusion tags have been particularly vital in these proof-of-concept studies, aiding in the investigation of the functional roles of post-translationally modified proteins linked to diseases. This overview delves into protein-tagging strategies that enable the targeted modulation of ubiquitination, phosphorylation, and acetylation, emphasizing the synergies and challenges of integrating heterobifunctional molecules with protein tags in PTM research. Despite significant progress, many PTMs remain to be explored, and protein tag-assisted PTM-inducing chimeras will continue to play an important role in understanding the fundamental roles of protein PTMs and in exploring the therapeutic potential of manipulating protein modifications, particularly for targets not yet addressed by existing drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aggie Lawer
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Heart Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - Luke Schulz
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Renata Sawyer
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Heart Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - Xuyu Liu
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Heart Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
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14
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Bai Y, Sui X, Xuan Z, Du Y, Fu M, Zheng Z, Yang K, Xu C, Liu Y, Liu B, Zhong M, Zhang Z, Zheng J, Hu X, Zhang L, Sun H, Shao C. Discovery of a small-molecule NDR1 agonist for prostate cancer therapy. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1367358. [PMID: 38410130 PMCID: PMC10896269 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1367358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostatic cancer (PCa) is a common malignant neoplasm in men worldwide. Most patients develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) after treatment with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), usually resulting in death. Therefore, investigating new therapeutic targets and drugs for PCa patients is urgently needed. Nuclear Dbf2-related kinase 1 (NDR1), also known as STK38, is a serine/threonine kinase in the NDR/LATS kinase family that plays a critical role in cellular processes, including immunity, inflammation, metastasis, and tumorigenesis. It was reported that NDR1 inhibited the metastasis of prostate cancer cells by suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and decreased NDR1 expression might lead to a poorer prognosis, suggesting the enormous potential of NDR1 in antitumorigenesis. In this study, we characterized a small-molecule agonist named aNDR1, which specifically bound to NDR1 and potently promoted NDR1 expression, enzymatic activity and phosphorylation. aNDR1 exhibited drug-like properties, such as favorable stability, plasma protein binding capacity, cell membrane permeability, and PCa cell-specific inhibition, while having no obvious effect on normal prostate cells. Meanwhile, aNDR1 exhibited good antitumor activity both in vitro and in vivo. aNDR1 inhibited proliferation and migration of PCa cells and promoted apoptosis of PCa cells in vitro. We further found that aNDR1 inhibited subcutaneous tumors and lung metastatic nodules in vivo, with no obvious toxicity to the body. In summary, our study presents a potential small-molecule lead compound that targets NDR1 for clinical therapy of PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Bai
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiuyuan Sui
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zuodong Xuan
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yifan Du
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Meiling Fu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zeyuan Zheng
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Kunao Yang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chunlan Xu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yankuo Liu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bin Liu
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Min Zhong
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhengying Zhang
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jianzhong Zheng
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hu
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huimin Sun
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chen Shao
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Urology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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15
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Setia N, Almuqdadi HTA, Abid M. Journey of Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ligase in PROTACs design: From VHL ligands to VHL-based degraders. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116041. [PMID: 38199162 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The scientific community has shown considerable interest in proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in the last decade, indicating their remarkable potential as a means of achieving targeted protein degradation (TPD). Not only are PROTACs seen as valuable tools in molecular biology but their emergence as a modality for drug discovery has also garnered significant attention. PROTACs bind to E3 ligases and target proteins through respective ligands connected via a linker to induce proteasome-mediated protein degradation. The discovery of small molecule ligands for E3 ligases has led to the prevalent use of various E3 ligases in PROTAC design. Furthermore, the incorporation of different types of linkers has proven beneficial in enhancing the efficacy of PROTACs. By far more than 3300 PROTACs have been reported in the literature. Notably, Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-based PROTACs have surfaced as a propitious strategy for targeting proteins, even encompassing those that were previously considered non-druggable. VHL is extensively utilized as an E3 ligase in the advancement of PROTACs owing to its widespread expression in various tissues and well-documented binders. Here, we review the discovery of VHL ligands, the types of linkers employed to develop VHL-based PROTACs, and their subsequent modulation to design advanced non-conventional degraders to target various disease-causing proteins. Furthermore, we provide an overview of other E3 ligases recruited in the field of PROTAC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Setia
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | | | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, 110025, India.
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16
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Peng X, Hu Z, Zeng L, Zhang M, Xu C, Lu B, Tao C, Chen W, Hou W, Cheng K, Bi H, Pan W, Chen J. Overview of epigenetic degraders based on PROTAC, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging technologies. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:533-578. [PMID: 38322348 PMCID: PMC10840439 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic pathways play a critical role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of cancer. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in the development of targeted epigenetic modulators (e.g., inhibitors). However, epigenetic inhibitors have faced multiple challenges, including limited clinical efficacy, toxicities, lack of subtype selectivity, and drug resistance. As a result, the design of new epigenetic modulators (e.g., degraders) such as PROTACs, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging (HyT) degraders has garnered significant attention from both academia and pharmaceutical industry, and numerous epigenetic degraders have been discovered in the past decade. In this review, we aim to provide an in-depth illustration of new degrading strategies (2017-2023) targeting epigenetic proteins for cancer therapy, focusing on the rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical status, and crystal structure information of these degraders. Importantly, we also provide deep insights into the potential challenges and corresponding remedies of this approach to drug design and development. Overall, we hope this review will offer a better mechanistic understanding and serve as a useful guide for the development of emerging epigenetic-targeting degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Limei Zeng
- College of Basic Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Meizhu Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Congcong Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Benyan Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Chengpeng Tao
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Weiming Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Wen Hou
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Kui Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Huichang Bi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wanyi Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 314000, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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17
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Zheng M, Zhang XY, Chen W, Xia F, Yang H, Yuan K, Yang P. Molecules inducing specific cyclin-dependent kinase degradation and their possible use in cancer therapy. Future Med Chem 2024; 16:369-388. [PMID: 38288571 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0259] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) play an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation, and many CDK inhibitors were developed. However, pan-CDK inhibitors failed to be approved due to intolerant toxicity or low efficacy and the use of selective CDK4/6 inhibitors is limited by resistance. Protein degraders have the potential to increase selectivity, efficacy and overcome resistance, which provides a novel strategy for regulating CDKs. In this review, we summarized the function of CDKs in regulating the cell cycle and transcription, and introduced the representative CDK inhibitors. Then we made a detailed introduction about four types of CDKs degraders, including their action mechanisms, research status and application prospects, which could help the development of novel CDKs degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Weijiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Fei Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Huanaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Peng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
- Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery and Development, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
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18
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Dai XJ, Ji SK, Fu MJ, Liu GZ, Liu HM, Wang SP, Shen L, Wang N, Herdewijn P, Zheng YC, Wang SQ, Chen XB. Degraders in epigenetic therapy: PROTACs and beyond. Theranostics 2024; 14:1464-1499. [PMID: 38389844 PMCID: PMC10879860 DOI: 10.7150/thno.92526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics refers to the reversible process through which changes in gene expression occur without changing the nucleotide sequence of DNA. The process is currently gaining prominence as a pivotal objective in the treatment of cancers and other ailments. Numerous drugs that target epigenetic mechanisms have obtained approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the therapeutic intervention of diverse diseases; many have drawbacks, such as limited applicability, toxicity, and resistance. Since the discovery of the first proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in 2001, studies on targeted protein degradation (TPD)-encompassing PROTACs, molecular glue (MG), hydrophobic tagging (HyT), degradation TAG (dTAG), Trim-Away, a specific and non-genetic inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP)-dependent protein eraser (SNIPER), antibody-PROTACs (Ab-PROTACs), and other lysosome-based strategies-have achieved remarkable progress. In this review, we comprehensively highlight the small-molecule degraders beyond PROTACs that could achieve the degradation of epigenetic proteins (including bromodomain-containing protein-related targets, histone acetylation/deacetylation-related targets, histone methylation/demethylation related targets, and other epigenetic targets) via proteasomal or lysosomal pathways. The present difficulties and forthcoming prospects in this domain are also deliberated upon, which may be valuable for medicinal chemists when developing more potent, selective, and drug-like epigenetic drugs for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Jie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shi-Kun Ji
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Meng-Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gao-Zhi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui-Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shao-Peng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Liang Shen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ning Wang
- The School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 1041, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yi-Chao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment; Key Laboratory of Henan Province for Drug Quality and Evaluation; Institute of Drug Discovery and Development; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- XNA platform, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sai-Qi Wang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Chen
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer & Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
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19
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Pinzi L, Rastelli G. Trends and Applications in Computationally Driven Drug Repurposing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16511. [PMID: 38003701 PMCID: PMC10671888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a widely used approach originally developed to aid in the identification of new uses of already existing drugs outside the scope of the original medical indication [...].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulio Rastelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy;
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20
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Petkov R, Camp AH, Isaacson RL, Torpey JH. Targeting bacterial degradation machinery as an antibacterial strategy. Biochem J 2023; 480:1719-1731. [PMID: 37916895 PMCID: PMC10657178 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20230191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The exploitation of a cell's natural degradation machinery for therapeutic purposes is an exciting research area in its infancy with respect to bacteria. Here, we review current strategies targeting the ClpCP system, which is a proteolytic degradation complex essential in the biology of many bacterial species of scientific interest. Strategies include using natural product antibiotics or acyldepsipeptides to initiate the up- or down-regulation of ClpCP activity. We also examine exciting recent forays into BacPROTACs to trigger the degradation of specific proteins of interest through the hijacking of the ClpCP machinery. These strategies represent an important emerging avenue for combatting antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslav Petkov
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, London SE1 1DB, U.K
| | - Amy H. Camp
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College Street, South Hadley, Massachusetts 01075, U.S.A
| | - Rivka L. Isaacson
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, London SE1 1DB, U.K
| | - James H. Torpey
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, Britannia House, 7 Trinity Street, London SE1 1DB, U.K
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21
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He Q, Zhao X, Wu D, Jia S, Liu C, Cheng Z, Huang F, Chen Y, Lu T, Lu S. Hydrophobic tag-based protein degradation: Development, opportunity and challenge. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115741. [PMID: 37607438 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115741] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a promising approach for drug development, particularly for undruggable targets. TPD technology has also been instrumental in overcoming drug resistance. While some TPD molecules utilizing proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTACs) or molecular glue strategies have been approved or evaluated in clinical trials, hydrophobic tag-based protein degradation (HyT-PD) has also gained significant attention as a tool for medicinal chemists. The increasing number of reported HyT-PD molecules possessing high efficiency in degrading protein and good pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, has further fueled interest in this approach. This review aims to present the design rationale, hydrophobic tags in use, and diverse mechanisms of action of HyT-PD. Additionally, the advantages and disadvantages of HyT-PD in protein degradation are discussed. This review may help inspire the development of more HyT-PDs with superior drug-like properties for clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qindi He
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Xiaofei Zhao
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Donglin Wu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Siming Jia
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Canlin Liu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Zitian Cheng
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Fei Huang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yadong Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Design and Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
| | - Tao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China.
| | - Shuai Lu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China.
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22
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Jiang Y, Ni S, Xiao B, Jia L. Function, mechanism and drug discovery of ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like modification with multiomics profiling for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4341-4372. [PMID: 37969742 PMCID: PMC10638515 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin-like (Ubl) pathways are critical post-translational modifications that determine whether functional proteins are degraded or activated/inactivated. To date, >600 associated enzymes have been reported that comprise a hierarchical task network (e.g., E1-E2-E3 cascade enzymatic reaction and deubiquitination) to modulate substrates, including enormous oncoproteins and tumor-suppressive proteins. Several strategies, such as classical biochemical approaches, multiomics, and clinical sample analysis, were combined to elucidate the functional relations between these enzymes and tumors. In this regard, the fundamental advances and follow-on drug discoveries have been crucial in providing vital information concerning contemporary translational efforts to tailor individualized treatment by targeting Ub and Ubl pathways. Correspondingly, emphasizing the current progress of Ub-related pathways as therapeutic targets in cancer is deemed essential. In the present review, we summarize and discuss the functions, clinical significance, and regulatory mechanisms of Ub and Ubl pathways in tumorigenesis as well as the current progress of small-molecular drug discovery. In particular, multiomics analyses were integrated to delineate the complexity of Ub and Ubl modifications for cancer therapy. The present review will provide a focused and up-to-date overview for the researchers to pursue further studies regarding the Ub and Ubl pathways targeted anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Biying Xiao
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lijun Jia
- Cancer Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
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23
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Choudhary D, Kaur A, Singh P, Chaudhary G, Kaur R, Bayan MF, Chandrasekaran B, Marji SM, Ayman R. Target protein degradation by protacs: A budding cancer treatment strategy. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108525. [PMID: 37696366 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common causes of death. So, its lethal effect increases with time. Near about hundreds of cancers are known in humans. Cancer treatment is done to cure or prolonged remission, and shrinkage of the tumor. Cytotoxic agents, biological agents/targeted drugs, hormonal drugs, surgery, radiotherapy/proton therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy are currently used in the treatment of cancer but their cost is high and cause various side effects. Seeing this, some new targeted strategies such as PROTACs are the need of the time. Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) has become one of the most discussed topics regarding cancer treatment. Few of the PROTAC molecules are in the trial phases. PROTACs have many advantages over other strategies such as modularity, compatibility, sub-stoichiometric activity, acting on undruggable targets, molecular design, and acts on intracellular targets, selectivity and specificity can be recruited for any cancer, versatility, and others. PROTACs are having some unclear questions on their pharmacokinetics, heavy-molecular weight, etc. PROTACs are anticipated to bring about a conversion in current healthcare and will emerge as booming treatments. In this review article we summarize PROTACs, their mechanism of action, uses, advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and future aspects for the successful development of potent PROTACs as a drug strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Choudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Amritpal Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Pargat Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Gaurav Chaudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Rajwinder Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India.
| | - Mohammad F Bayan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | | | - Saeed M Marji
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
| | - Reema Ayman
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
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24
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Huang JH, Huang CJ, Yu LN, Guan XL, Liang SW, Li JH, Liang L, Wei MY, Zhang LM. Bioinspired PROTAC-induced macrophage fate determination alleviates atherosclerosis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:1962-1976. [PMID: 37169852 PMCID: PMC10545710 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01088-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a major cause of death and disability in cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis associated with lipid accumulation and chronic inflammation leads to plaques formation in arterial walls and luminal stenosis in carotid arteries. Current approaches such as surgery or treatment with statins encounter big challenges in curing atherosclerosis plaque. The infiltration of proinflammatory M1 macrophages plays an essential role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis plaque. A recent study shows that TRIM24, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of a Trim family protein, acts as a valve to inhibit the polarization of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, and elimination of TRIM24 opens an avenue to achieve the M2 polarization. Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has emerged as a novel tool for the selective degradation of targeting proteins. But the low bioavailability and cell specificity of PROTAC reagents hinder their applications in treating atherosclerosis plaque. In this study we constructed a type of bioinspired PROTAC by coating the PROTAC degrader (dTRIM24)-loaded PLGA nanoparticles with M2 macrophage membrane (MELT) for atherosclerosis treatment. MELT was characterized by morphology, size, and stability. MELT displayed enhanced specificity to M1 macrophages as well as acidic-responsive release of dTRIM24. After intravenous administration, MELT showed significantly improved accumulation in atherosclerotic plaque of high fat and high cholesterol diet-fed atherosclerotic (ApoE-/-) mice through binding to M1 macrophages and inducing effective and precise TRIM24 degradation, thus resulting in the polarization of M2 macrophages, which led to great reduction of plaque formation. These results suggest that MELT can be considered a potential therapeutic agent for targeting atherosclerotic plaque and alleviating atherosclerosis progression, providing an effective strategy for targeted atherosclerosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiong-Hua Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Chuang-Jia Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Li-Na Yu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Oral Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510013, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Guan
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Shang-Wen Liang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China
| | - Jian-Hong Li
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China
| | - Lu Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Min-Yan Wei
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Ling-Min Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511518, China.
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25
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Alaseem AM. Advancements in MDM2 inhibition: Clinical and pre-clinical investigations of combination therapeutic regimens. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:101790. [PMID: 37818252 PMCID: PMC10561124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.101790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells often depend on multiple pathways for their growth and survival, resulting in therapeutic resistance and the limited effectiveness of treatments. Combination therapy has emerged as a favorable approach to enhance treatment efficacy and minimize acquired resistance and harmful side effects. The murine double minute 2 (MDM2) protein regulates cellular proliferation and promotes cancer-related activities by negatively regulating the tumor suppressor protein p53. MDM2 aberrations have been reported in a variety of human cancers, making it an appealing target for cancer therapy. As a result, several small-molecule MDM2 inhibitors have been developed and are currently being investigated in clinical studies. Nevertheless, it has been shown that the inhibition of MDM2 alone is inadequate to achieve long-term suppression of tumor growth, thus prompting the need for further investigation into combination therapeutic strategies. In this review, possible clinical and preclinical MDM2 combination inhibitor regimens are thoroughly analyzed and discussed. It provides a rationale for combining MDM2 inhibitors with other therapeutic approaches in the management of cancer, taking into consideration ongoing clinical trials that evaluate the combination of MDM2 inhibitors. The review explores the current status of MDM2 inhibitors in combination with chemotherapy or targeted therapy, as well as promising approach of combining MDM2 inhibitors with immunotherapy. In addition, it investigates the function of PROTACs as MDM2 degraders in cancer treatment. A comprehensive examination of these combination regimens highlights the potential for advancing MDM2-inhibitor therapy and improving clinical outcomes for cancer patients and establishes the foundation for future research and development in this promising area of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M. Alaseem
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Wang L, Yang Z, Li G, Liu Y, Ai C, Rao Y. Discovery of small molecule degraders for modulating cell cycle. Front Med 2023; 17:823-854. [PMID: 37935945 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1027-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The cell cycle is a complex process that involves DNA replication, protein expression, and cell division. Dysregulation of the cell cycle is associated with various diseases. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and their corresponding cyclins are major proteins that regulate the cell cycle. In contrast to inhibition, a new approach called proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues can eliminate both enzymatic and scaffold functions of CDKs and cyclins, achieving targeted degradation. The field of PROTACs and molecular glues has developed rapidly in recent years. In this article, we aim to summarize the latest developments of CDKs and cyclin protein degraders. The selectivity, application, validation and the current state of each CDK degrader will be overviewed. Additionally, possible methods are discussed for the development of degraders for CDK members that still lack them. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive summary of the latest advancements in CDK and cyclin protein degraders, which will be helpful for researchers working on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liguo Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhouli Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Guangchen Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yongbo Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chao Ai
- Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 102218, China.
| | - Yu Rao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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27
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Xie S, Zhu J, Li J, Zhan F, Yao H, Xu J, Xu S. Small-Molecule Hydrophobic Tagging: A Promising Strategy of Druglike Technology for Targeted Protein Degradation. J Med Chem 2023; 66:10917-10933. [PMID: 37535706 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) technologies have catalyzed a paradigm shift in therapeutic strategies and offer innovative avenues for drug design. Hydrophobic tags (HyTs) are bifunctional TPD molecules consisting of a ″lipophilic small-molecule tags″ group and a small-molecule ligand for the target protein. Despite the vast potential of HyTs, they have received relatively limited attention as a promising frontier. Leveraging their lower molecular weight and reduced numbers of hydrogen bond donors/acceptors (HBDs/HBAs) in comparison with proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), HyTs present a compelling approach for enhancing druglike properties. In this Perspective, we explore the diverse range of HyT structures and their corresponding degradation mechanisms, thereby illuminating their broad applicability in targeting a diverse array of proteins, including previously elusive targets. Moreover, we scrutinize the challenges and opportunities entailed in developing this technology as a viable and fruitful strategy for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaowen Xie
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Jingjie Zhu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Junda Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Feiyan Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Hong Yao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Jinyi Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Shengtao Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou 215300, China
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28
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Lin R, Yang J, Liu T, Wang M, Ke C, Luo C, Lin J, Li J, Lin H. Discovery of HyT-Based Degraders of CDK9-Cyclin T1 Complex. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202300769. [PMID: 37349855 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202300769] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Direct modulation of the non-kinase functions of cyclin and CDK-cyclin complexes poses challenges. We utilize hydrophobic tag (HyT) based small-molecule degraders induced degradation of cyclin T1 and its corresponding kinase partner CDK9. LL-CDK9-12 demonstrated the most potent and selective degradation ability, with DC50 values of 0.362 μM against CDK9 and 0.680 μM against cyclin T1. In prostate cancer cells, LL-CDK9-12 showed enhanced anti-proliferative activity than its parental molecule SNS032 and LL-K9-3, the previous reported CDK9-cyclin T1 degrader. Moreover, LL-CDK9-12 suppressed the downstream signaling of CDK9 and AR efficiently. Altogether, LL-CDK9-12 was an effective dual degrader of CDK9-cyclin T1 and helped study the unknown function of CDK9-cyclin T1. These results suggest that HyT-based degraders could be used as a strategy to induce the degradation of protein complexes, providing insights for the design of protein complexes' degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongkun Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350117, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Mingyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chongrong Ke
- National and Local United Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microbiology and Fermentation Technology, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350117, Fujian, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528437, China
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Jin Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jiacheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hua Lin
- Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, 350117, China
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29
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Thomas BAI, Lewis HL, Jones DH, Ward SE. Central Nervous System Targeted Protein Degraders. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1164. [PMID: 37627229 PMCID: PMC10452695 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081164] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Diseases of the central nervous system, which once occupied a large component of the pharmaceutical industry research and development portfolio, have for many years played a smaller part in major pharma pipelines-primarily due to the well cited challenges in target validation, valid translational models, and clinical trial design. Unfortunately, this decline in research and development interest has occurred in tandem with an increase in the medical need-in part driven by the success in treating other chronic diseases, which then results in a greater overall longevity along with a higher prevalence of diseases associated with ageing. The lead modality for drug agents targeting the brain remains the traditionally small molecule, despite potential in gene-based therapies and antibodies, particularly in the hugely anticipated anti-amyloid field, clearly driven by the additional challenge of effective distribution to the relevant brain compartments. However, in recognition of the growing disease burden, advanced therapies are being developed in tandem with improved delivery options. Hence, methodologies which were initially restricted to systemic indications are now being actively explored for a range of CNS diseases-an important class of which include the protein degradation technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bedwyr ab Ion Thomas
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK (H.L.L.)
| | - H. Lois Lewis
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK (H.L.L.)
| | - D. Heulyn Jones
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK (H.L.L.)
- Chemistry Department, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Simon E. Ward
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK (H.L.L.)
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30
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Feng C, Zhang L, Chang X, Qin D, Zhang T. Regulation of post-translational modification of PD-L1 and advances in tumor immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1230135. [PMID: 37554324 PMCID: PMC10405826 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1230135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune checkpoint molecules programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) are one of the most promising targets for tumor immunotherapy. PD-L1 is overexpressed on the surface of tumor cells and inhibits T cell activation upon binding to PD⁃1 on the surface of T cells, resulting in tumor immune escape. The therapeutic strategy of targeting PD-1/PD-L1 involves blocking this binding and restoring the tumor-killing effect of immune cells. However, in clinical settings, a relatively low proportion of cancer patients have responded well to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade, and clinical outcomes have reached a bottleneck and no substantial progress has been made. In recent years, PD-L1 post-translation modifications (PTMs) have gradually become a hot topic in the field of PD-L1 research, which will provide new insights to improve the efficacy of current anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies. Here, we summarized and discussed multiple PTMs of PD-L1, including glycosylation, ubiquitination, phosphorylation, acetylation and palmitoylation, with a major emphasis on mechanism-based therapeutic strategies (including relevant enzymes and targets that are already in clinical use and that may become drugs in the future). We also summarized the latest research progress of PTMs of PD-L1/PD-1 in regulating immunotherapy. The review provided novel strategies and directions for tumor immunotherapy research based on the PTMs of PD-L1/PD-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Feng
- Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Lening Zhang
- Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xin Chang
- Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dongliang Qin
- Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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31
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Kim Y, Kim EK, Chey Y, Song MJ, Jang HH. Targeted Protein Degradation: Principles and Applications of the Proteasome. Cells 2023; 12:1846. [PMID: 37508510 PMCID: PMC10378610 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The proteasome is a multi-catalytic protease complex that is involved in protein quality control via three proteolytic activities (i.e., caspase-, trypsin-, and chymotrypsin-like activities). Most cellular proteins are selectively degraded by the proteasome via ubiquitination. Moreover, the ubiquitin-proteasome system is a critical process for maintaining protein homeostasis. Here, we briefly summarize the structure of the proteasome, its regulatory mechanisms, proteins that regulate proteasome activity, and alterations to proteasome activity found in diverse diseases, chemoresistant cells, and cancer stem cells. Finally, we describe potential therapeutic modalities that use the ubiquitin-proteasome system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosup Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoona Chey
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jeong Song
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Hee Jang
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (GAIHST), Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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32
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Escher TE, Satchell KJF. RAS degraders: The new frontier for RAS-driven cancers. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1904-1919. [PMID: 36945775 PMCID: PMC10362401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The function and significance of RAS proteins in cancer have been widely studied for decades. In 2013, the National Cancer Institute established the RAS Initiative to explore innovative approaches for attacking the proteins encoded by mutant forms of RAS genes and to create effective therapies for RAS-driven cancers. This initiative spurred researchers to develop novel approaches and to discover small molecules targeting this protein that was at one time termed "undruggable." More recently, advanced efforts in RAS degraders including PROTACs, linker-based degraders, and direct proteolysis degraders have been explored as novel strategies to target RAS for cancer treatment. These RAS degraders present new opportunities for RAS therapies and may prove fruitful in understanding basic cell biology. Novel delivery strategies will further enhance the efficacy of these therapeutics. In this review, we summarize recent efforts to develop RAS degraders, including PROTACs and E3 adaptor and ligase fusions as cancer therapies. This review also details the direct RAS protease degrader, RAS/RAP1-specific endopeptidase that directly and specifically cleaves RAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor E Escher
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Research Center, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Karla J F Satchell
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Research Center, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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33
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Li P, Li B, Yang N, Xu T, Zheng Z. The next generation of EGFR inhibitors: a patenting perspective of PROTACs based EGFR degraders. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:477-492. [PMID: 37873645 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2262176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abnormal expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) contributes to tumor development, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although multiple inhibitors have been developed to target diverse EGFR mutations and several have been approved, the inevitable drug resistance and side effect remain a challenge, which motivates novel strategies. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been gaining momentum for their potential as novel therapeutics for human diseases by triggering protein degradation. To date, various potent and specific EGFR PROTACs have been discovered and some of them have entered clinical trials. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of EGFR degraders in patents from 2016 to 2022. It provides an update of the discovery strategies, chemical structures, and molecular profiling of all available EGFR PROTACs. SciFinder, PubMed, Web of Science, EPO, and CNIPA databases were used for searching the literature and patents for EGFR PROTACs. EXPERT OPINION By employing the PROTAC technology, highly potent and selective EGFR degraders based on four generation EGFR inhibitors have been developed, which offer a new strategy to target EGFR mutations and overcome the drug resistance. Despite the satisfactory result in vitro and in vivo studies, their therapeutic value awaits more rigorous preclinical testing and clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyun Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Bingkun Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibing Zheng
- National Engineering Research Center for Strategic Drugs, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
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34
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Wen T, Chen J, Zhang W, Pang J. Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of α-Synuclein Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114458. [PMID: 37298935 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114458] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Synuclein aggregation under pathological conditions is one of the causes of related neurodegenerative diseases. PROTACs (proteolysis targeting chimeras) are bifunctional small molecules that induce a post-translational erasure of proteins via the ubiquitination of target proteins by E3 ubiquitin ligase and subsequent proteasomal degradation. However, few research studies have been conducted for targeted protein degradation of α-synuclein aggregates. In this article, we have designed and synthesized a series of small-molecule degraders 1-9 based on a known α-synuclein aggregation inhibitor sery384. In silico docking studies of sery384 with α-synuclein aggregates were accomplished to ensure that the compounds bound to α-synuclein aggregates specifically. The protein level of α-synuclein aggregates was determined to evaluate the degradation efficiency of PROTAC molecules on α-synuclein aggregates in vitro. The results show that compound 5 had the most significant degradation effect, with DC50 of 5.049 μM, and could induce the degradation of α-synuclein aggregates in a time- and dose-dependent manner in vitro. Furthermore, compound 5 could inhibit the elevation of the ROS level caused by overexpression and aggregation of α-synuclein and protect H293T cells from α-synuclein toxicity. Conclusively, our results provide a new class of small-molecule degraders and an experimental basis for the treatment of α-synuclein related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhi Wen
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian Chen
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wenqian Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiyan Pang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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35
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Hu J, Zhang D, Tian K, Ren C, Li H, Lin C, Huang X, Liu J, Mao W, Zhang J. Small-molecule LRRK2 inhibitors for PD therapy: Current achievements and future perspectives. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 256:115475. [PMID: 37201428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a multifunctional protein that orchestrates a diverse array of cellular processes, including vesicle transport, autophagy, lysosome degradation, neurotransmission, and mitochondrial activity. Hyperactivation of LRRK2 triggers vesicle transport dysfunction, neuroinflammation, accumulation of α-synuclein, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the loss of cilia, ultimately leading to Parkinson's disease (PD). Therefore, targeting LRRK2 protein is a promising therapeutic strategy for PD. The clinical translation of LRRK2 inhibitors was historically impeded by issues surrounding tissue specificity. Recent studies have identified LRRK2 inhibitors that have no effect on peripheral tissues. Currently, there are four small-molecule LRRK2 inhibitors undergoing clinical trials. This review provides a summary of the structure and biological functions of LRRK2, along with an overview of the binding modes and structure-activity relationships (SARs) of small-molecule inhibitors targeting LRRK2. It offers valuable references for developing novel drugs targeting LRRK2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Hu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Keyue Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Changyu Ren
- Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Heng Li
- Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Congcong Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Medicine Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xiaoli Huang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Wuyu Mao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Respiratory Health, Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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36
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Tseng YL, Lu PC, Lee CC, He RY, Huang YA, Tseng YC, Cheng TJR, Huang JJT, Fang JM. Degradation of neurodegenerative disease-associated TDP-43 aggregates and oligomers via a proteolysis-targeting chimera. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:27. [PMID: 37101169 PMCID: PMC10131537 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00921-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) associated with TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) aggregation has been considered as a lethal and progressive motor neuron disease. Recent studies have shown that both C-terminal TDP-43 (C-TDP-43) aggregates and oligomers were neurotoxic and pathologic agents in ALS and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). However, misfolding protein has long been considered as an undruggable target by applying conventional inhibitors, agonists, or antagonists. To provide this unmet medical need, we aim to degrade these misfolding proteins by designing a series of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) against C-TDP-43. METHODS By applying filter trap assay, western blotting, and microscopy imaging, the degradation efficiency of C-TDP-43 aggregates was studied in Neuro-2a cells overexpressing eGFP-C-TDP-43 or mCherry-C-TDP-43. The cell viability was characterized by alarmarBlue assay. The beneficial and disaggregating effects of TDP-43 PROTAC were examined with the YFP-C-TDP-43 transgenic C. elegans by motility assay and confocal microscopy. The impact of TDP-43 PROTAC on C-TDP-43 oligomeric intermediates was monitored by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and size exclusion chromatography in the Neuro-2a cells co-expressing eGFP-C-TDP-43 and mCherry-C-TDP-43. RESULTS Four PROTACs with different linker lengths were synthesized and characterized. Among these chimeras, PROTAC 2 decreased C-TDP-43 aggregates and relieved C-TDP-43-induced cytotoxicity in Neuro-2a cells without affecting endogenous TDP-43. We showed that PROTAC 2 bound to C-TDP-43 aggregates and E3 ligase to initiate ubiquitination and proteolytic degradation. By applying advanced microscopy, it was further shown that PROTAC 2 decreased the compactness and population of C-TDP-43 oligomers. In addition to cellular model, PROTAC 2 also improved the motility of transgenic C. elegans by reducing the C-TDP-43 aggregates in the nervous system. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated the dual-targeting capacity of the newly-designed PROTAC 2 against both C-TDP-43 aggregates and oligomers to reduce their neurotoxicity, which shed light on the potential drug development for ALS as well as other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Tseng
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chao Lu
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
- Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chang Lee
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Ruei-Yu He
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Yung-An Huang
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Chen Tseng
- The Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | | | - Joseph Jen-Tse Huang
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.
- Sustainable Chemical Science and Technology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, 600, Taiwan.
- Neuroscience Program of Academia Sinica, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.
| | - Jim-Min Fang
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan.
- The Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.
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37
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Sobhia ME, Kumar H, Kumari S. Bifunctional robots inducing targeted protein degradation. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 255:115384. [PMID: 37119667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The gaining importance of Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) and PROTACs (PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras) have drawn the scientific community's attention. PROTACs are considered bifunctional robots owing to their avidity for the protein of interest (POI) and E3-ligase, which induce the ubiquitination of POI. These molecules are based on event-driven pharmacology and are applicable in different conditions such as oncology, antiviral, neurodegenerative disease, acne etc., offering tremendous scope to researchers. In this review, primarily, we attempted to compile the recent works available in the literature on PROTACs for various targeted proteins. We summarized the design and development strategies with a focus on molecular information of protein residues and linker design. Rationalization of the ternary complex formation using Artificial Intelligence including machine & deep learning models and traditionally followed computational tools are also included in this study. Moreover, details describing the optimization of PROTACs chemistry and pharmacokinetic properties are added. Advanced PROTAC designs and targeting complex proteins, is summed up to cover the wide spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elizabeth Sobhia
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector - 67, S. A. S. Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, 160062, India.
| | - Harish Kumar
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector - 67, S. A. S. Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Sonia Kumari
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector - 67, S. A. S. Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, 160062, India
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Yang H, Ai H, Zhang J, Ma J, Liu K, Li Z. UPS: Opportunities and challenges for gastric cancer treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1140452. [PMID: 37077823 PMCID: PMC10106573 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1140452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer remains the fourth most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide owning to the lack of efficient drugs and targets for therapy. Accumulating evidence indicates that UPS, which consists of E1, E2, and E3 enzymes and proteasome, plays an important role in the GC tumorigenesis. The imbalance of UPS impairs the protein homeostasis network during development of GC. Therefore, modulating these enzymes and proteasome may be a promising strategy for GC target therapy. Besides, PROTAC, a strategy using UPS to degrade the target protein, is an emerging tool for drug development. Thus far, more and more PROTAC drugs enter clinical trials for cancer therapy. Here, we will analyze the abnormal expression enzymes in UPS and summarize the E3 enzymes which can be developed in PROTAC so that it can contribute to the development of UPS modulator and PROTAC technology for GC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huihan Ai
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jialin Zhang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jie Ma
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi Li, ; Kangdong Liu,
| | - Zhi Li
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi Li, ; Kangdong Liu,
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39
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To KKW, Xing E, Larue RC, Li PK. BET Bromodomain Inhibitors: Novel Design Strategies and Therapeutic Applications. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28073043. [PMID: 37049806 PMCID: PMC10096006 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28073043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) family of proteins consists of four conserved members (Brd2, Brd3, Brd4, and Brdt) that regulate numerous cancer-related and immunity-associated genes. They are epigenetic readers of histone acetylation with broad specificity. BET proteins are linked to cancer progression due to their interaction with numerous cellular proteins including chromatin-modifying factors, transcription factors, and histone modification enzymes. The spectacular growth in the clinical development of small-molecule BET inhibitors underscores the interest and importance of this protein family as an anticancer target. Current approaches targeting BET proteins for cancer therapy rely on acetylation mimics to block the bromodomains from binding chromatin. However, bromodomain-targeted agents are suffering from dose-limiting toxicities because of their effects on other bromodomain-containing proteins. In this review, we provided an updated summary about the evolution of small-molecule BET inhibitors. The design of bivalent BET inhibitors, kinase and BET dual inhibitors, BET protein proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), and Brd4-selective inhibitors are discussed. The novel strategy of targeting the unique C-terminal extra-terminal (ET) domain of BET proteins and its therapeutic significance will also be highlighted. Apart from single agent treatment alone, BET inhibitors have also been combined with other chemotherapeutic modalities for cancer treatment demonstrating favorable clinical outcomes. The investigation of specific biomarkers for predicting the efficacy and resistance of BET inhibitors is needed to fully realize their therapeutic potential in the clinical setting.
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40
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Son S, Lee NR, Gee MS, Song CW, Lee SJ, Lee SK, Lee Y, Kim HJ, Lee JK, Inn KS, Kim NJ. Chemical Knockdown of Phosphorylated p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) as a Novel Approach for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:417-426. [PMID: 36968534 PMCID: PMC10037464 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.2c01369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) provides unique advantages over gene knockdown in that it can induce selective degradation of disease-associated proteins attributed to pathological mutations or aberrant post-translational modifications (PTMs). Herein, we report a protein degrader, PRZ-18002, that selectively binds to an active form of p38 MAPK. PRZ-18002 induces degradation of phosphorylated p38 MAPK (p-p38) and a phosphomimetic mutant of p38 MAPK in a proteasome-dependent manner. Given that the activation of p38 MAPK plays pivotal roles in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), selective degradation of p-p38 may provide an attractive therapeutic option for the treatment of AD. In the 5xFAD transgenic mice model of AD, intranasal treatment of PRZ-18002 reduces p-p38 levels and alleviates microglia activation and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, leading to subsequent improvement of spatial learning and memory. Collectively, our findings suggest that PRZ-18002 ameliorates AD pathophysiology via selective degradation of p-p38, highlighting a novel therapeutic TPD modality that targets a specific PTM to induce selective degradation of neurodegenerative disease-associated protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung
Hwan Son
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Rae Lee
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Sung Gee
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Won Song
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Lee
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Kyung Lee
- Department
of Bioengineering and Institute of Nanoscience and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonji Lee
- College
of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Kil Lee
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Inn
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Jung Kim
- College
of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Prazer
Therapeutics Inc., Beobwon-ro
9-gil 26, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05836, Republic of Korea
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41
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Xie S, Zhan F, Zhu J, Sun Y, Zhu H, Liu J, Chen J, Zhu Z, Yang DH, Chen ZS, Yao H, Xu J, Xu S. Discovery of Norbornene as a Novel Hydrophobic Tag Applied in Protein Degradation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202217246. [PMID: 36670545 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Hydrophobic tagging (HyT) is a potential therapeutic strategy for targeted protein degradation (TPD). Norbornene was discovered as an unprecedented hydrophobic tag in this study and was used to degrade the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion protein by linking it to ALK inhibitors. The most promising degrader, Hyt-9, potently reduced ALK levels through Hsp70 and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in vitro without compensatory upregulation of ALK. Furthermore, Hyt-9 exhibited a significant tumor-inhibiting effect in vivo with moderate oral bioavailability. More importantly, norbornene can also be used to degrade the intractable enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) when tagged with the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat. Thus, the discovery of novel hydrophobic norbornene tags shows promise for the future development of TPD technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaowen Xie
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Feiyan Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Jingjie Zhu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Huajian Zhu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Organic Chemistry, School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215300, China
| | - Zheying Zhu
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, The University of Nottingham, University Park, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Dong-Hua Yang
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Hong Yao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Jinyi Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Shengtao Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215300, China
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42
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Akizuki Y, Morita M, Mori Y, Kaiho-Soma A, Dixit S, Endo A, Shimogawa M, Hayashi G, Naito M, Okamoto A, Tanaka K, Saeki Y, Ohtake F. cIAP1-based degraders induce degradation via branched ubiquitin architectures. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:311-322. [PMID: 36316570 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01178-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation through chemical hijacking of E3 ubiquitin ligases is an emerging concept in precision medicine. The ubiquitin code is a critical determinant of the fate of substrates. Although two E3s, CRL2VHL and CRL4CRBN, frequently assemble with proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) to attach lysine-48 (K48)-linked ubiquitin chains, the diversity of the ubiquitin code used for chemically induced degradation is largely unknown. Here we show that the efficacy of cIAP1-targeting degraders depends on the K63-specific E2 enzyme UBE2N. UBE2N promotes degradation of cIAP1 induced by cIAP1 ligands and subsequent cancer cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, UBE2N-catalyzed K63-linked ubiquitin chains facilitate assembly of highly complex K48/K63 and K11/K48 branched ubiquitin chains, thereby recruiting p97/VCP, UCH37 and the proteasome. Degradation of neo-substrates directed by cIAP1-recruiting PROTACs also depends on UBE2N. These results reveal an unexpected role for K63-linked ubiquitin chains and UBE2N in degrader-induced proteasomal degradation and demonstrate the diversity of the ubiquitin code used for chemical hijacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshino Akizuki
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Life Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mai Morita
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Mori
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ai Kaiho-Soma
- Institute for Advanced Life Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shivani Dixit
- Department of Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akinori Endo
- Protein Metabolism Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marie Shimogawa
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gosuke Hayashi
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikihiko Naito
- Social Cooperation Program of Targeted Protein Degradation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Okamoto
- Department of Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiji Tanaka
- Protein Metabolism Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Saeki
- Protein Metabolism Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumiaki Ohtake
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan.
- Institute for Advanced Life Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan.
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43
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Medicinal chemistry strategies in the discovery and optimization of HBV core protein allosteric modulators (2018–2022 update). CHINESE CHEM LETT 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2023.108349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
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44
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Zheng D, Li J, Yan H, Zhang G, Li W, Chu E, Wei N. Emerging roles of Aurora-A kinase in cancer therapy resistance. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023. [PMID: 37521867 PMCID: PMC10372834 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Aurora kinase A (Aurora-A), a serine/threonine kinase, plays a pivotal role in various cellular processes, including mitotic entry, centrosome maturation and spindle formation. Overexpression or gene-amplification/mutation of Aurora-A kinase occurs in different types of cancer, including lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer. Alteration of Aurora-A impacts multiple cancer hallmarks, especially, immortalization, energy metabolism, immune escape and cell death resistance which are involved in cancer progression and resistance. This review highlights the most recent advances in the oncogenic roles and related multiple cancer hallmarks of Aurora-A kinase-driving cancer therapy resistance, including chemoresistance (taxanes, cisplatin, cyclophosphamide), targeted therapy resistance (osimertinib, imatinib, sorafenib, etc.), endocrine therapy resistance (tamoxifen, fulvestrant) and radioresistance. Specifically, the mechanisms of Aurora-A kinase promote acquired resistance through modulating DNA damage repair, feedback activation bypass pathways, resistance to apoptosis, necroptosis and autophagy, metastasis, and stemness. Noticeably, our review also summarizes the promising synthetic lethality strategy for Aurora-A inhibitors in RB1, ARID1A and MYC gene mutation tumors, and potential synergistic strategy for mTOR, PAK1, MDM2, MEK inhibitors or PD-L1 antibodies combined with targeting Aurora-A kinase. In addition, we discuss the design and development of the novel class of Aurora-A inhibitors in precision medicine for cancer treatment.
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45
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Wang P, Zhu H, Liu J, Xie S, Xu S, Chen Y, Xu J, Zhao Y, Zhu Z, Xu J. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel protopanoxadiol derivatives based PROTACs technology for the treatment of lung cancer. Bioorg Chem 2023; 131:106327. [PMID: 36549254 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Protopanoxadiol is a key active ingredient derived from Panax ginseng that is well-known to exhibit anti-tumor activity. Previous research focused on the natural protopanaxadiol derivative AD-1 has demonstrated that it possesses broad spectrum anti-tumor activities in vitro and in vivo. However, its limited activity, selectivity, and cell permeability have impeded its therapeutic application. Herein, a series of novel AD-1 derivatives were designed and synthesized based on proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology by linking AD-1 at the C-3 and C-12 positions with pomalidomide through linkers of alkyl chain of differing lengths to achieve the goal of improving the efficacy of the parent compound. Among these synthesized PROTACs, the representative compound A05 exhibited the most potent anti-proliferative activity against A549 cells. Furthermore, mechanistic studies revealed that compound A05 was able to suppress MDM2 expression, disrupt interactions between p53 and MDM2 and readily induce apoptotic death via the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Moreover, the in vivo assays revealed that compound A05 exhibited both anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic activities in the zebrafish tumor xenograft model with A549 cells. Together, our findings suggest that AD-1 based PROTACs associated with the degradation of MDM2 may have promising effects for the treatment of lung cancer and this work provide a foundation for future efforts to develop novel anti-tumor agents from natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Huajian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jianmin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shaowen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shengtao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jing Xu
- School of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yuqing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, China.
| | - Zheying Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Nottingham, University Park Campus, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jinyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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46
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Jia X, Han X. Targeting androgen receptor degradation with PROTACs from bench to bedside. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114112. [PMID: 36508999 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of androgen receptor (AR) has been extensively investigated to treat prostate cancer. Resistance mechanisms such as increased levels of androgen production, increased AR gene, enhancer expression and AR point mutations always reduce the clinical efficacy. Design and discovery of small-molecule PROTAC AR degraders have been pursued as a new therapeutic strategy to overcome common resistance mechanisms developed during prostate cancer treatment. In the last two decades, potent and efficacious PROTAC AR degraders have been gotten rapid development and several such compounds have been advanced into preclinical phase and phase I/II trials for the treatment of human prostate cancers. Especially, the first PROTAC to enter the clinic, ARV-110, has shown good clinical effects in patients with mCRPC. This fully demonstrates the high clinical value of PROTAC strategy in treatment of human diseases. Here, we summarized the recent advances in the development of these potential clinical-stage PROTAC AR degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Jia
- The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xin Han
- The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China..
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47
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Targeting histone deacetylases for cancer therapy: Trends and challenges. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
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48
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Chen JJ, Jin JM, Gu WJ, Zhao Z, Yuan H, Zhou YD, Nagle DG, Xi QL, Zhang XM, Sun QY, Wu Y, Zhang WD, Luan X. Crizotinib-based proteolysis targeting chimera suppresses gastric cancer by promoting MET degradation. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:1958-1971. [PMID: 36692137 PMCID: PMC10154821 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the common malignant cancer types, gastric cancer (GC) is known for late-stage diagnosis and poor prognosis. Overexpression of the receptor tyrosine kinase MET is associated with poor prognosis among patients with advanced stage GC. However, no MET inhibitor has been used for GC treatment. Like other tyrosine kinase inhibitors that fit the "occupancy-driven" model, current MET inhibitors are prone to acquired resistance. The emerging proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) strategy could overcome such limitations through direct degradation of the target proteins. In this study, we successfully transformed the MET-targeted inhibitor crizotinib into a series of PROTACs, recruiting cereblon/cullin 4A E3 ubiquitin ligase to degrade the MET proteins. The optimized lead PROTAC (PRO-6 E) effectively eliminated MET proteins in vitro and in vivo, inhibiting proliferation and motility of MET-positive GC cells. In the MKN-45 xenograft model, PRO-6 E showed pronounced antitumor efficacy with a well-tolerated dosage regimen. These results validated PRO-6 E as the first oral PROTAC for MET-dependent GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Jiao Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin-Mei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jie Gu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeng Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Hu Yuan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Liberal Arts, University of Mississippi, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dale G Nagle
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of BioMolecular Sciences and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qiu-Lei Xi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Mei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Yan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Dong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center for Chinese Medicine Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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49
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Jiang H, Xiong H, Gu SX, Wang M. E3 ligase ligand optimization of Clinical PROTACs. Front Chem 2023; 11:1098331. [PMID: 36733714 PMCID: PMC9886873 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1098331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) technology can realize the development of drugs for non-druggable targets that are difficult to achieve with traditional small molecules, and therefore has attracted extensive attention from both academia and industry. Up to now, there are more than 600 known E3 ubiquitin ligases with different structures and functions, but only a few have developed corresponding E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands, and the ligands used to design PROTAC molecules are limited to a few types such as VHL (Von-Hippel-Lindau), CRBN (Cereblon), MDM2 (Mouse Doubleminute 2 homolog), IAP (Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins), etc. Most of the PROTAC molecules that have entered clinical trials were developed based on CRBN ligands, and only DT2216 was based on VHL ligand. Obviously, the structural optimization of E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands plays an instrumental role in PROTAC technology from bench to bedside. In this review, we review the structure optimization process of E3 ubiquitin ligase ligands currently entering clinical trials on PROTAC molecules, summarize some characteristics of these ligands in terms of druggability, and provide some preliminary insights into their structural optimization. We hope that this review will help medicinal chemists to develop more druggable molecules into clinical studies and to realize the greater therapeutic potential of PROTAC technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanrui Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering & Pharmacy, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, China,Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China
| | - Huan Xiong
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang-Xi Gu
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering & Pharmacy, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Shuang-Xi Gu, ; Mingliang Wang,
| | - Mingliang Wang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Shuang-Xi Gu, ; Mingliang Wang,
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50
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Abstract
In order to deliver chemotherapeutics more efficiently, small-molecule-drug conjugates (SMDCs) and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have been synthesized and explored. These conjugates not only provide selective delivery but also improve the therapeutic index of toxins. By merging this conjugate concept with target protein degradation (TPD), the degrader-antibody conjugate (DAC) field has emerged, and clinical trials have even begun in recent years. In this Perspective, we provide the concepts, applications, and recent advances in the area of DACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Bum Hong
- New Drug Development Center (NDDC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (DGMIF), 80 Cheombok-ro, Dong-gu, 41061 Daegu, Korea
| | - Hongchan An
- New Drug Development Center (NDDC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (DGMIF), 80 Cheombok-ro, Dong-gu, 41061 Daegu, Korea
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