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Feng Z, Yang C, Zhang Y, Li H, Fang W, Wang J, Nie Y, Wang CY, Liu Z, Jiang Z, Wang J, Wang Y. Structure-Based Design and Characterization of the Highly Potent and Selective Covalent Inhibitors Targeting the Lysine Methyltransferases G9a/GLP. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37268593 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Protein lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP, which catalyze mono- and di-methylation of histone H3K9 and nonhistone proteins, play important roles in diverse cellular processes. Overexpression or dysregulation of G9a and GLP has been identified in various types of cancer. Here, we report the discovery of a highly potent and selective covalent inhibitor 27 of G9a/GLP via the structure-based drug design approach following structure-activity relationship exploration and cellular potency optimization. Mass spectrometry assays and washout experiments confirmed its covalent inhibition mechanism. Compound 27 displayed improved potency in inhibiting the proliferation and colony formation of PANC-1 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines and exhibited enhanced potency in reducing the levels of H3K9me2 in cells compared to noncovalent inhibitor 26. In vivo, 27 showed significant antitumor efficacy in the PANC-1 xenograft model with good safety. These results clearly indicate that 27 is a highly potent and selective covalent inhibitor of G9a/GLP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongbo Feng
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Zhiyuan Road, Lingui District, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Chunju Yang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Huaxuan Li
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Wei Fang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Junhua Wang
- The Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Yichu Nie
- Clinical Research Institute, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Chang-Yun Wang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Zhiqing Liu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Zhimin Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Zhiyuan Road, Lingui District, Guilin 541199, China
| | - Junjian Wang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuanxiang Wang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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Mu YR, Zou SY, Li M, Ding YY, Huang X, He ZH, Kong WJ. Role and mechanism of FOXG1-related epigenetic modifications in cisplatin-induced hair cell damage. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1064579. [PMID: 37181652 PMCID: PMC10169754 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1064579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is widely used in clinical tumor chemotherapy but has severe ototoxic side effects, including tinnitus and hearing damage. This study aimed to determine the molecular mechanism underlying cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. In this study, we used CBA/CaJ mice to establish an ototoxicity model of cisplatin-induced hair cell loss, and our results showed that cisplatin treatment could reduce FOXG1 expression and autophagy levels. Additionally, H3K9me2 levels increased in cochlear hair cells after cisplatin administration. Reduced FOXG1 expression caused decreased microRNA (miRNA) expression and autophagy levels, leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and cochlear hair cell death. Inhibiting miRNA expression decreased the autophagy levels of OC-1 cells and significantly increased cellular ROS levels and the apoptosis ratio in vitro. In vitro, overexpression of FOXG1 and its target miRNAs could rescue the cisplatin-induced decrease in autophagy, thereby reducing apoptosis. BIX01294 is an inhibitor of G9a, the enzyme in charge of H3K9me2, and can reduce hair cell damage and rescue the hearing loss caused by cisplatin in vivo. This study demonstrates that FOXG1-related epigenetics plays a role in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity through the autophagy pathway, providing new ideas and intervention targets for treating ototoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-rong Mu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Sheng-yu Zou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-yan Ding
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zu-hong He
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei-jia Kong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Tang L, Peng L, Tan C, Liu H, Chen P, Wang H. Role of HOXA9 in solid tumors: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:349. [PMID: 36376832 PMCID: PMC9664671 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02767-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
HOXA9 functioning as a transcription factor is one of the members of HOX gene family, which governs multiple cellular activities by facilitating cellular signal transduction. In addition to be a driver in AML which has been widely studied, the role of HOXA9 in solid tumor progression has also received increasing attention in recent years, where the aberrant expression of HOXA9 is closely associated with the prognosis of patient. This review details the signaling pathways, binding partners, post-transcriptional regulation of HOXA9, and possible inhibitors of HOXA9 in solid tumors, which provides a reference basis for further study on the role of HOXA9 in solid tumors.
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Śniegocka M, Liccardo F, Fazi F, Masciarelli S. Understanding ER homeostasis and the UPR to enhance treatment efficacy of acute myeloid leukemia. Drug Resist Updat 2022; 64:100853. [PMID: 35870226 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Protein biogenesis, maturation and degradation are tightly regulated processes that are governed by a complex network of signaling pathways. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for biosynthesis and maturation of secretory proteins. Circumstances that alter cellular protein homeostasis, determine accumulation of misfolded and unfolded proteins in the ER, a condition defined as ER stress. In case of stress, the ER activates an adaptive response called unfolded protein response (UPR), a series of pathways of major relevance for cancer biology. The UPR plays a preeminent role in adaptation of tumor cells to the harsh conditions that they experience, due to high rates of proliferation, metabolic abnormalities and hostile environment scarce in oxygen and nutrients. Furthermore, the UPR is among the main adaptive cell stress responses contributing to the development of resistance to drugs and chemotherapy. Clinical management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) has improved significantly in the last decade, thanks to development of molecular targeted therapies. However, the emergence of treatment-resistant clones renders the rate of AML cure dismal. Moreover, different cell populations that constitute the bone marrow niche recently emerged as a main determinant leading to drug resistance. Herein we summarize the most relevant literature regarding the role played by the UPR in expansion of AML and ability to develop drug resistance and we discuss different possible modalities to overturn this adaptive response against leukemia. To this aim, we also describe the interconnection of the UPR with other cellular stress responses regulating protein homeostasis. Finally, we review the newest findings about the crosstalk between AML cells and cells of the bone marrow niche, under physiological conditions and in response to therapies, discussing in particular the importance of the niche in supporting survival of AML cells by favoring protein homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Śniegocka
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology & Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Liccardo
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology & Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology & Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Masciarelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology & Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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EHMT2/G9a as an Epigenetic Target in Pediatric and Adult Brain Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011292. [PMID: 34681949 PMCID: PMC8539543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms, including post-translational modifications of DNA and histones that influence chromatin structure, regulate gene expression during normal development and are also involved in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The histone methyltransferase G9a (euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2, EHMT2), which mostly mediates mono- and dimethylation by histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9), influences gene expression involved in embryonic development and tissue differentiation. Overexpression of G9a has been observed in several cancer types, and different classes of G9a inhibitors have been developed as potential anticancer agents. Here, we review the emerging evidence suggesting the involvement of changes in G9a activity in brain tumors, namely glioblastoma (GBM), the main type of primary malignant brain cancer in adults, and medulloblastoma (MB), the most common type of malignant brain cancer in children. We also discuss the role of G9a in neuroblastoma (NB) and the drug development of G9a inhibitors.
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Poulard C, Noureddine LM, Pruvost L, Le Romancer M. Structure, Activity, and Function of the Protein Lysine Methyltransferase G9a. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11101082. [PMID: 34685453 PMCID: PMC8541646 DOI: 10.3390/life11101082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
G9a is a lysine methyltransferase catalyzing the majority of histone H3 mono- and dimethylation at Lys-9 (H3K9), responsible for transcriptional repression events in euchromatin. G9a has been shown to methylate various lysine residues of non-histone proteins and acts as a coactivator for several transcription factors. This review will provide an overview of the structural features of G9a and its paralog called G9a-like protein (GLP), explore the biochemical features of G9a, and describe its post-translational modifications and the specific inhibitors available to target its catalytic activity. Aside from its role on histone substrates, the review will highlight some non-histone targets of G9a, in order gain insight into their role in specific cellular mechanisms. Indeed, G9a was largely described to be involved in embryonic development, hypoxia, and DNA repair. Finally, the involvement of G9a in cancer biology will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Poulard
- Cancer Research Cancer of Lyon, Université de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France; (L.M.N.); (L.P.); (M.L.R.)
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Lara M. Noureddine
- Cancer Research Cancer of Lyon, Université de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France; (L.M.N.); (L.P.); (M.L.R.)
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadat-Beirut 90565, Lebanon
| | - Ludivine Pruvost
- Cancer Research Cancer of Lyon, Université de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France; (L.M.N.); (L.P.); (M.L.R.)
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
| | - Muriel Le Romancer
- Cancer Research Cancer of Lyon, Université de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France; (L.M.N.); (L.P.); (M.L.R.)
- Inserm U1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
- CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
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Zheng Z, Li L, Li G, Zhang Y, Dong C, Ren F, Chen W, Ma Y. EZH2/EHMT2 Histone Methyltransferases Inhibit the Transcription of DLX5 and Promote the Transformation of Myelodysplastic Syndrome to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:619795. [PMID: 34409024 PMCID: PMC8365305 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.619795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is characterized by clonal hematopoiesis and impaired differentiation, and may develop to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We explored the mechanism of histone methyltransferase EZH2/EHMT2 during the transformation of MDS into AML. Expression of EZH2/EHMT2 in patients and NHD13 mice was detected. EZH2 and EHMT2 were silenced or overexpressed in SKM-1 cells. The cell proliferation and cycle were evaluated. Levels of DLX5, H3K27me3, and H3K9me2 in SKM-1 cells were detected. Binding of DLX5 promoter region to H3K27me3 and H3K9me2 was examined. Levels of H3K27me3/H3K9me2 were decreased by EZH2/EHMT2 inhibitor (EPZ-6438/BIX-01294), and changes of DLX5 expression and cell proliferation were observed. EZH2 was poorly expressed in MDS patients but highly expressed in MDS-AML patients. EHMT2 was promoted in both MDS and MDS-AML patients. EZH2 expression was reduced and EHMT2 expression was promoted in NHD13 mice. NHD13 mice with overexpressing EZH2 or EHMT2 transformed into AML more quickly. Intervention of EZH2 or EHMT2 inhibited SKM-1 cell proliferation and promoted DLX5 expression. When silencing EZH1 and EZH2 in SKM-1 cells, the H3K27me3 level was decreased. EZH2 silencing repressed the proliferation of SKM-1 cells. Transcription level of DLX5 in SKM-1 cells was inhibited by H3K27me3 and H3K9me2. Enhanced DLX5 repressed SKM-1 cell proliferation. In conclusion, EZH2/EHMT2 catalyzed H3K27me3/H3K9me2 to inhibit the transcription of DLX5, thus promoting the transformation from MDS to AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuanzhen Zheng
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Guoxia Li
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yaofang Zhang
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chunxia Dong
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Fanggang Ren
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Wenliang Chen
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yanping Ma
- Department of Hemapathotology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Gene Transcription as a Therapeutic Target in Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147340. [PMID: 34298959 PMCID: PMC8304797 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood malignancies often arise from undifferentiated hematopoietic stem cells or partially differentiated stem-like cells. A tight balance of multipotency and differentiation, cell division, and quiescence underlying normal hematopoiesis requires a special program governed by the transcriptional machinery. Acquisition of drug resistance by tumor cells also involves reprogramming of their transcriptional landscape. Limiting tumor cell plasticity by disabling reprogramming of the gene transcription is a promising strategy for improvement of treatment outcomes. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of action of transcription-targeted drugs in hematological malignancies (largely in leukemia) with particular respect to the results of clinical trials.
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Wei X, Xiao B, Wang L, Zang L, Che F. Potential new targets and drugs related to histone modifications in glioma treatment. Bioorg Chem 2021; 112:104942. [PMID: 33965781 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glioma accounts for 40-50% of craniocerebral tumors, whose outcome rarely improves after standard treatment. The development of new therapeutic targets for glioma treatment has important clinical significance. With the deepening of research on gliomas, recent researchers have found that the occurrence and development of gliomas is closely associated with histone modifications, including methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination. Additionally, evidence has confirmed the close relationship between histone modifications and temozolomide (TMZ) resistance. Therefore, histone modification-related proteins have been widely recognized as new therapeutic targets for glioma treatment. In this review, we summarize the potential histone modification-associated targets and related drugs for glioma treatment. We have further clarified how histone modifications regulate the pathogenesis of gliomas and the mechanism of drug action, providing novel insights for the current clinical glioma treatment. Herein, we have also highlighted the limitations of current clinical therapies and have suggested future research directions and expected advances in potential areas of disease prognosis. Due to the complicated glioma pathogenesis, in the present review, we have acknowledged the limitations of histone modification applications in the related clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhong Wei
- Graduate School, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong, China; Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Bolian Xiao
- Central Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Key Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Linyi, Shandong, China
| | - Liying Wang
- Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China; Department of Neurology, the Clinical Medical College of Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lanlan Zang
- Central Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Key Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Linyi, Shandong, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Fengyuan Che
- Graduate School, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong, China; Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China; Central Laboratory, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Key Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Linyi, Shandong, China.
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The histone methyltransferase inhibitor A-366 enhances hemoglobin expression in erythroleukemia cells upon co-exposure with chemical inducers in culture. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:2. [PMID: 33407944 PMCID: PMC7788816 DOI: 10.1186/s40709-020-00132-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Erythroleukemia is caused by the uncontrolled multiplication of immature erythroid progenitor cells which fail to differentiate into erythrocytes. By directly targeting this class of malignant cells, the induction of terminal erythroid differentiation represents a vital therapeutic strategy for this disease. Erythroid differentiation involves the execution of a well-orchestrated gene expression program in which epigenetic enzymes play critical roles. In order to identify novel epigenetic mediators of differentiation, this study explores the effects of multiple, highly specific, epigenetic enzyme inhibitors, in murine and human erythroleukemia cell lines. Results We used a group of compounds designed to uniquely target the following epigenetic enzymes: G9a/GLP, EZH1/2, SMYD2, PRMT3, WDR5, SETD7, SUV420H1 and DOT1L. The majority of the probes had a negative impact on both cell proliferation and differentiation. On the contrary, one of the compounds, A-366, demonstrated the opposite effect by promoting erythroid differentiation of both cell models. A-366 is a selective inhibitor of the G9a methyltransferase and the chromatin reader Spindlin1. Investigation of the molecular mechanism of action revealed that A-366 forced cells to exit from the cell cycle, a fact that favored erythroid differentiation. Further analysis led to the identification of a group of genes that mediate the A-366 effects and include CDK2, CDK4 and CDK6. Conclusions A-366, a selective inhibitor of G9a and Spindlin1, demonstrates a compelling role in the erythroid maturation process by promoting differentiation, a fact that is highly beneficial for patients suffering from erythroleukemia. In conclusion, this data calls for further investigation towards the delivery of epigenetic drugs and especially A-366 in hematopoietic disorders.
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Saha N, Muntean AG. Insight into the multi-faceted role of the SUV family of H3K9 methyltransferases in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188498. [PMID: 33373647 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence implicates histone H3 lysine 9 methylation in tumorigenesis. The SUV family of H3K9 methyltransferases, which include G9a, GLP, SETDB1, SETDB2, SUV39H1 and SUV39H2 deposit H3K9me1/2/3 marks at euchromatic and heterochromatic regions, catalyzed by their conserved SET domain. In cancer, this family of enzymes can be deregulated by genomic alterations and transcriptional mis-expression leading to alteration of transcriptional programs. In solid and hematological malignancies, studies have uncovered pro-oncogenic roles for several H3K9 methyltransferases and accordingly, small molecule inhibitors are being tested as potential therapies. However, emerging evidence demonstrate onco-suppressive roles for these enzymes in cancer development as well. Here, we review the role H3K9 methyltransferases play in tumorigenesis focusing on gene targets and biological pathways affected due to misregulation of these enzymes. We also discuss molecular mechanisms regulating H3K9 methyltransferases and their influence on cancer. Finally, we describe the impact of H3K9 methylation on therapy induced resistance in carcinoma. Converging evidence point to multi-faceted roles for H3K9 methyltransferases in development and cancer that encourages a deeper understanding of these enzymes to inform novel therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmalya Saha
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States of America
| | - Andrew G Muntean
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States of America.
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Uddin MS, Mamun AA, Alghamdi BS, Tewari D, Jeandet P, Sarwar MS, Ashraf GM. Epigenetics of glioblastoma multiforme: From molecular mechanisms to therapeutic approaches. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:100-120. [PMID: 33370605 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of brain cancer and one of the most aggressive cancers found in humans. Most of the signs and symptoms of GBM can be mild and slowly aggravated, although other symptoms might demonstrate it as an acute ailment. However, the precise mechanisms of the development of GBM remain unknown. Due to the improvement of molecular pathology, current researches have reported that glioma progression is strongly connected with different types of epigenetic phenomena, such as histone modifications, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and aberrant microRNA. Furthermore, the genes and the proteins that control these alterations have become novel targets for treating glioma because of the reversibility of epigenetic modifications. In some cases, gene mutations including P16, TP53, and EGFR, have been observed in GBM. In contrast, monosomies, including removals of chromosome 10, particularly q23 and q25-26, are considered the standard markers for determining the development and aggressiveness of GBM. Recently, amid the epigenetic therapies, histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors have been used for treating tumors, either single or combined. Specifically, HDACIs are served as a good choice and deliver a novel pathway to treat GBM. In this review, we focus on the epigenetics of GBM and the consequence of its mutations. We also highlight various treatment approaches, namely gene editing, epigenetic drugs, and microRNAs to combat GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Badrah S Alghamdi
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Devesh Tewari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Philippe Jeandet
- Research Unit, Induced Resistance and Plant Bioprotection, EA 4707, SFR Condorcet FR CNRS 3417, Faculty of Sciences, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, PO Box 1039, 51687, Reims Cedex 2, France
| | - Md Shahid Sarwar
- Department of Pharmacy, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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13
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Jan S, Dar MI, Wani R, Sandey J, Mushtaq I, Lateef S, Syed SH. Targeting EHMT2/ G9a for cancer therapy: Progress and perspective. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 893:173827. [PMID: 33347828 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase-2, also known as G9a, is a ubiquitously expressed SET domain-containing histone lysine methyltransferase linked with both facultative and constitutive heterochromatin formation and transcriptional repression. It is an essential developmental gene and reported to play role in embryonic development, establishment of proviral silencing in ES cells, tumor cell growth, metastasis, T-cell immune response, cocaine induced neural plasticity and cognition and adaptive behavior. It is mainly responsible for carrying out mono, di and tri methylation of histone H3K9 in euchromatin. G9a levels are elevated in many cancers and its selective inhibition is known to reduce the cell growth and induce autophagy, apoptosis and senescence. We carried out a thorough search of online literature databases including Pubmed, Scopus, Journal websites, Clinical trials etc to gather the maximum possible information related to the G9a. The main messages from the cited papers are presented in a systematic manner. Chemical structures were drawn by Chemdraw software. In this review, we shed light on current understanding of structure and biological activity of G9a, the molecular events directing its targeting to genomic regions and its post-translational modification. Finally, we discuss the current strategies to target G9a in different cancers and evaluate the available compounds and agents used to inhibit G9a functions. The review provides the present status and future directions of research in targeting G9a and provides the basis to persuade the development of novel strategies to target G9a -related effects in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraya Jan
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Mohd Ishaq Dar
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Rubiada Wani
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Jagjeet Sandey
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Iqra Mushtaq
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sammar Lateef
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sajad Hussain Syed
- CSIR, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, 190005, Srinagar, Kashmir, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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14
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Rahman Z, Bazaz MR, Devabattula G, Khan MA, Godugu C. Targeting H3K9 methyltransferase G9a and its related molecule GLP as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2020; 35:e22674. [PMID: 33283949 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
H3K9 methyltransferase (G9a) and its relevant molecule GLP are the SET domain proteins that specifically add mono, di and trimethyl groups on to the histone H3K9, which lead to the transcriptional inactivation of chromatin and reduce the expression of cancer suppressor genes, which trigger growth and progress of several cancer types. Various studies have demonstrated that overexpression of H3K9 methyltransferase G9a and GLP in different kinds of tumors, like lung, breast, bladder, colon, cervical, gastric, skin cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma and hematological malignancies. Several G9a and GLP inhibitors such as BIX-01294, UNC0642, A-366 and DCG066 were developed to combat various cancers; however, there is a need for more effective and less toxic compounds. The current molecular docking study suggested that the selected new compounds such as ninhydrin, naphthoquinone, cysteamine and disulfide cysteamine could be suitable molecules as a G9a and GLP inhibitors. Furthermore, detailed cell based and preclinical animal studies are required to confirm their properties. In the current review, we discussed the role of G9a and GLP mediated epigenetic regulation in the cancers. A thorough literature review was done related to G9a and GLP. The databases used extensively for retrieval of information were PubMed, Medline, Scopus and Science-direct. Further, molecular docking was performed using Maestro Schrodinger version 9.2 software to investigate the binding profile of compounds with Human G9a HMT (PDB ID: 3FPD, 3RJW) and Human GLP MT (PDB ID: 6MBO, 6MBP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziaur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Mohd Rabi Bazaz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Geetanjali Devabattula
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Mohd Abrar Khan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Department of Regulatory Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Wong NHM, So CWE. Novel therapeutic strategies for MLL-rearranged leukemias. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194584. [PMID: 32534041 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
MLL rearrangement is one of the key drivers and generally regarded as an independent poor prognostic marker in acute leukemias. The standard of care for MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemias has remained largely unchanged for the past 50 years despite unsatisfying clinical outcomes, so there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that a vast number of epigenetic regulators are directly or indirectly involved in MLL-r leukemia, and they are responsible for supporting the aberrant gene expression program mediated by MLL-fusions. Unlike genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications can be reversed by pharmacologic targeting of the responsible epigenetic regulators. This leads to significant interest in developing epigenetic therapies for MLL-r leukemia. Intriguingly, many of the epigenetic enzymes also involve in DNA damage response (DDR), which can be potential targets for synthetic lethality-induced therapies. In this review, we will summarize some of the recent advances in the development of epigenetic and DDR therapeutics by targeting epigenetic regulators or protein complexes that mediate MLL-r leukemia gene expression program and key players in DDR that safeguard essential genome integrity. The rationale and molecular mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic effects will also be discussed with a focus on how these treatments can disrupt MLL-fusion mediated transcriptional programs and impair DDR, which may help overcome treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nok-Hei Mickey Wong
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Chi Wai Eric So
- Department of Haematological Medicine, Division of Cancer Studies, Leukemia and Stem Cell Biology Team, King's College London, London, UK.
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16
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Khateb A, Ronai ZA. Unfolded Protein Response in Leukemia: From Basic Understanding to Therapeutic Opportunities. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:960-973. [PMID: 32540455 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Understanding genetic and epigenetic changes that underlie abnormal proliferation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells is critical for development of new approaches to monitor and treat leukemia. The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a conserved adaptive signaling pathway that governs protein folding, secretion, and energy production and serves to maintain protein homeostasis in various cellular compartments. Deregulated UPR signaling, which often occurs in hematopoietic stem cells and leukemia, defines the degree of cellular toxicity and perturbs protein homeostasis, and at the same time, offers a novel therapeutic target. Here, we review current knowledge related to altered UPR signaling in leukemia and highlight possible strategies for exploiting the UPR as treatment for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Khateb
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ze'ev A Ronai
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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17
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Jang JE, Eom JI, Jeung HK, Chung H, Kim YR, Kim JS, Cheong JW, Min YH. PERK/NRF2 and autophagy form a resistance mechanism against G9a inhibition in leukemia stem cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:66. [PMID: 32293500 PMCID: PMC7158163 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01565-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The histone methyltransferase G9a has recently been identified as a potential target for epigenetic therapy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the effect of G9a inhibition on leukemia stem cells (LSCs), which are responsible for AML drug resistance and recurrence, is unclear. In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of the LSC resistance to G9a inhibition. METHODS We evaluated the effects of G9a inhibition on the unfolded protein response and autophagy in AML and LSC-like cell lines and in primary CD34+CD38- leukemic blasts from patients with AML and investigated the underlying mechanisms. The effects of treatment on cells were evaluated by flow cytometry, western blotting, confocal microscopy, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production assay. RESULTS The G9a inhibitor BIX-01294 effectively induced apoptosis in AML cell lines; however, the effect was limited in KG1 LSC-like cells. BIX-01294 treatment or siRNA-mediated G9a knockdown led to the activation of the PERK/NRF2 pathway and HO-1 upregulation in KG1 cells. Phosphorylation of p38 and intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were suppressed. Pharmacological or siRNA-mediated inhibition of the PERK/NRF2 pathway synergistically enhanced BIX-01294-induced apoptosis, with suppressed HO-1 expression, increased p38 phosphorylation, and elevated ROS generation, indicating that activated PERK/NRF2 signaling suppressed ROS-induced apoptosis in KG1 cells. By contrast, cotreatment of normal hematopoietic stem cells with BIX-01294 and a PERK inhibitor had no significant proapoptotic effect. Additionally, G9a inhibition induced autophagy flux in KG1 cells, while autophagy inhibitors significantly increased the BIX-01294-induced apoptosis. This prosurvival autophagy was not abrogated by PERK/NRF2 inhibition. CONCLUSIONS PERK/NRF2 signaling plays a key role in protecting LSCs against ROS-induced apoptosis, thus conferring resistance to G9a inhibitors. Treatment with PERK/NRF2 or autophagy inhibitors could overcome resistance to G9a inhibition and eliminate LSCs, suggesting the potential clinical utility of these unique targeted therapies against AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Eun Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju-In Eom
- Avison Biomedical Research Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hoi-Kyung Jeung
- Avison Biomedical Research Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Haerim Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu Ri Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Seok Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - June-Won Cheong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoo Hong Min
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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18
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Ciechomska IA, Jayaprakash C, Maleszewska M, Kaminska B. Histone Modifying Enzymes and Chromatin Modifiers in Glioma Pathobiology and Therapy Responses. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1202:259-279. [PMID: 32034718 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30651-9_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Signal transduction pathways directly communicate and transform chromatin to change the epigenetic landscape and regulate gene expression. Chromatin acts as a dynamic platform of signal integration and storage. Histone modifications and alteration of chromatin structure play the main role in chromatin-based gene expression regulation. Alterations in genes coding for histone modifying enzymes and chromatin modifiers result in malfunction of proteins that regulate chromatin modification and remodeling. Such dysregulations culminate in profound changes in chromatin structure and distorted patterns of gene expression. Gliomagenesis is a multistep process, involving both genetic and epigenetic alterations. Recent applications of next generation sequencing have revealed that many chromatin regulation-related genes, including ATRX, ARID1A, SMARCA4, SMARCA2, SMARCC2, BAF155 and hSNF5 are mutated in gliomas. In this review we summarize newly identified mechanisms affecting expression or functions of selected histone modifying enzymes and chromatin modifiers in gliomas. We focus on selected examples of pathogenic mechanisms involving ATRX, histone methyltransferase G9a, histone acetylases/deacetylases and chromatin remodeling complexes SMARCA2/4. We discuss the impact of selected epigenetics alterations on glioma pathobiology, signaling and therapeutic responses. We assess the attempts of targeting defective pathways with new inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona A Ciechomska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chinchu Jayaprakash
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Maleszewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bozena Kaminska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Neurobiology Center, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland.
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19
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Monaghan L, Massett ME, Bunschoten RP, Hoose A, Pirvan PA, Liskamp RMJ, Jørgensen HG, Huang X. The Emerging Role of H3K9me3 as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2019; 9:705. [PMID: 31428579 PMCID: PMC6687838 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence has demonstrated that epigenetic dysregulation is a common pathological feature in human cancer cells. Global alterations in the epigenetic landscape are prevalent in malignant cells across different solid tumors including, prostate cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and in haemopoietic malignancy. In particular, DNA hypomethylation and histone hypoacetylation have been observed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient blasts, with histone methylation being an emerging area of study. Histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) is a post-translational modification known to be involved in the regulation of a broad range of biological processes, including the formation of transcriptionally silent heterochromatin. Following the observation of its aberrant methylation status in hematological malignancy and several other cancer phenotypes, recent studies have associated H3K9me3 levels with patient outcome and highlighted key molecular mechanisms linking H3K9me3 profile with AML etiology in a number of large-scale meta-analysis. Consequently, the development and application of small molecule inhibitors which target the histone methyltransferases or demethylase enzymes known to participate in the oncogenic regulation of H3K9me3 in AML represents an advancing area of ongoing study. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on how this particular epigenetic mark is regulated within cells and its emerging role as a potential therapeutic target in AML, along with an update on the current research into advancing the generation of more potent and selective inhibitors against known H3K9 methyltransferases and demethylases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Monaghan
- Haemato-Oncology/Systems Medicine Group, Paul O'Gorman Leukemia Research Center, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew E. Massett
- Haemato-Oncology/Systems Medicine Group, Paul O'Gorman Leukemia Research Center, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alex Hoose
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Heather G. Jørgensen
- Haemato-Oncology/Systems Medicine Group, Paul O'Gorman Leukemia Research Center, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Xu Huang
- Haemato-Oncology/Systems Medicine Group, Paul O'Gorman Leukemia Research Center, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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20
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Cao H, Li L, Yang D, Zeng L, Yewei X, Yu B, Liao G, Chen J. Recent progress in histone methyltransferase (G9a) inhibitors as anticancer agents. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 179:537-546. [PMID: 31276898 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.06.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression without changing the DNA sequence - a change in phenotype without a change in genotype. Epigenetic abnormalities can lead to serious diseases such as cancer in organisms. Histone methylation is one of the several manifestations of epigenetics, and requires specific enzymes to catalyze, for example, G9a, which is a histone methyl transferase. G9a catalyzes the methylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) and histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27). In addition, G9a also plays an essential role in DNA replication, damage and repair, and gene expression by regulating DNA methylation. Moreover, G9a has been found to be overexpressed in many tumor cells and is associated with the occurrence and development of tumors. Because of its unique characteristics, G9a has become a very promising target for anti-cancer agents. Over the last decade, dozens of G9a inhibitors have been discovered as potential anticancer therapeutic agents. In this review, we summarize and classify current G9a inhibitors, the challenges and future direction are also discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ling Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Deying Yang
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Liming Zeng
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xie Yewei
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Bin Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Guochao Liao
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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21
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Slater O, Kontoyianni M. The compromise of virtual screening and its impact on drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2019; 14:619-637. [PMID: 31025886 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2019.1604677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Docking and structure-based virtual screening (VS) have been standard approaches in structure-based design for over two decades. However, our understanding of the limitations, potential, and strength of these techniques has enhanced, raising expectations. Areas covered: Based on a survey of reports in the past five years, we assess whether VS: (1) predicts binding poses in agreement with crystallographic data (when available); (2) is a superior screening tool, as often claimed; (3) is successful in identifying chemical scaffolds that can be starting points for subsequent lead optimization cycles. Data shows that knowledge of the target and its chemotypes in postprocessing lead to viable hits in early drug discovery endeavors. Expert opinion: VS is capable of accurate placements in the pocket for the most part, but does not consistently score screening collections accurately. What matters is capitalization on available resources to get closer to a viable lead or optimizable series. Integration of approaches, subjective hit selection guided by knowledge of the receptor or endogenous ligand, libraries driven by experimental guides, validation studies to identify the best docking/scoring that reproduces experimental findings, constraints regarding receptor-ligand interactions, thoroughly designed methodologies, and predefined cutoff scoring criteria strengthen VS's position in pharmaceutical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Slater
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Southern Illinois University Edwardsville , Edwardsville , IL , USA
| | - Maria Kontoyianni
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Southern Illinois University Edwardsville , Edwardsville , IL , USA
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22
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Han D, Huang M, Wang T, Li Z, Chen Y, Liu C, Lei Z, Chu X. Lysine methylation of transcription factors in cancer. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:290. [PMID: 30926778 PMCID: PMC6441099 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1524-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Protein lysine methylation is a critical and dynamic post-translational modification that can regulate protein stability and function. This post-translational modification is regulated by lysine methyltransferases and lysine demethylases. Recent studies using mass-spectrometric techniques have revealed that in addition to histones, a great number of transcription factors are also methylated, often at multiple sites and to different degrees (mono-, di-, trimethyl lysine). The biomedical significance of transcription factor methylation in human diseases, including cancer, has been explored recently. Some studies have demonstrated that interfering with transcription factor lysine methylation both in vitro and in vivo can inhibit cancer cell proliferation, thereby reversing tumor progression. The inhibitors targeting lysine methyltransferases and lysine demethylases have been under development for the past two decades, and may be used as potential anticancer agents in the clinic. In this review, we focus on the current findings of transcription factor lysine methylation, and the effects on both transcriptional activity and target gene expression. We outlined the biological significance of transcription factor lysine methylation on tumor progression and highlighted its clinical value in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Clinical School of Southern Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mengxi Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhiping Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Clinical School of Southern Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Clinical School of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zengjie Lei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Clinical School of Southern Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Xiaoyuan Chu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Clinical School of Southern Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
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23
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Milite C, Feoli A, Horton JR, Rescigno D, Cipriano A, Pisapia V, Viviano M, Pepe G, Amendola G, Novellino E, Cosconati S, Cheng X, Castellano S, Sbardella G. Discovery of a Novel Chemotype of Histone Lysine Methyltransferase EHMT1/2 (GLP/G9a) Inhibitors: Rational Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Co-crystal Structure. J Med Chem 2019; 62:2666-2689. [PMID: 30753076 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b02008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of compound BIX01294 over 10 years ago, only a very limited number of nonquinazoline inhibitors of H3K9-specific methyltransferases G9a and G9a-like protein (GLP) have been reported. Herein, we report the identification of a novel chemotype for G9a/GLP inhibitors, based on the underinvestigated 2-alkyl-5-amino- and 2-aryl-5-amino-substituted 3 H-benzo[ e][1,4]diazepine scaffold. Our research efforts resulted in the identification 12a (EML741), which not only maintained the high in vitro and cellular potency of its quinazoline counterpart, but also displayed improved inhibitory potency against DNA methyltransferase 1, improved selectivity against other methyltransferases, low cell toxicity, and improved apparent permeability values in both parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) and blood-brain barrier-specific PAMPA, and therefore might potentially be a better candidate for animal studies. Finally, the co-crystal structure of GLP in complex with 12a provides the basis for the further development of benzodiazepine-based G9a/GLP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - John R Horton
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology , The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , Texas 77030 , United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Giorgio Amendola
- DiSTABiF , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Via Vivaldi 43 , 81100 Caserta , Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy , University Federico II of Naples , Via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Naples , Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- DiSTABiF , University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Via Vivaldi 43 , 81100 Caserta , Italy
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology , The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center , Houston , Texas 77030 , United States
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24
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Zang L, Kondengaden SM, Che F, Wang L, Heng X. Potential Epigenetic-Based Therapeutic Targets for Glioma. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:408. [PMID: 30498431 PMCID: PMC6249994 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is characterized by a high recurrence rate, short survival times, high rates of mortality and treatment difficulties. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation (RT) are the standard treatments, but outcomes rarely improve even after treatment. With the advancement of molecular pathology, recent studies have found that the development of glioma is closely related to various epigenetic phenomena, including DNA methylation, abnormal microRNA (miRNA), chromatin remodeling and histone modifications. Owing to the reversibility of epigenetic modifications, the proteins and genes that regulate these changes have become new targets in the treatment of glioma. In this review, we present a summary of the potential therapeutic targets of glioma and related effective treating drugs from the four aspects mentioned above. We further illustrate how epigenetic mechanisms dynamically regulate the pathogenesis and discuss the challenges of glioma treatment. Currently, among the epigenetic treatments, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors and histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) can be used for the treatment of tumors, either individually or in combination. In the treatment of glioma, only HDACIs remain a good option and they provide new directions for the treatment. Due to the complicated pathogenesis of glioma, epigenetic applications to glioma clinical treatment are still limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Zang
- Central Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shukkoor Muhammed Kondengaden
- Chemistry Department and Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Fengyuan Che
- Central Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China.,Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Central Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
| | - Xueyuan Heng
- Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong University, Linyi, China
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25
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Chen J, Lin X, Park KJ, Lee KR, Park HJ. Identification of protoberberine alkaloids as novel histone methyltransferase G9a inhibitors by structure-based virtual screening. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2018; 32:917-928. [DOI: 10.1007/s10822-018-0156-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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26
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Rabal O, San José-Enériz E, Agirre X, Sánchez-Arias JA, Vilas-Zornoza A, Ugarte A, de Miguel I, Miranda E, Garate L, Fraga M, Santamarina P, Fernandez Perez R, Ordoñez R, Sáez E, Roa S, García-Barchino MJ, Martínez-Climent JA, Liu Y, Wu W, Xu M, Prosper F, Oyarzabal J. Discovery of Reversible DNA Methyltransferase and Lysine Methyltransferase G9a Inhibitors with Antitumoral in Vivo Efficacy. J Med Chem 2018; 61:6518-6545. [PMID: 29953809 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Using knowledge- and structure-based approaches, we designed and synthesized reversible chemical probes that simultaneously inhibit the activity of two epigenetic targets, histone 3 lysine 9 methyltransferase (G9a) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMT), at nanomolar ranges. Enzymatic competition assays confirmed our design strategy: substrate competitive inhibitors. Next, an initial exploration around our hit 11 was pursued to identify an adequate tool compound for in vivo testing. In vitro treatment of different hematological neoplasia cell lines led to the identification of molecules with clear antiproliferative efficacies (GI50 values in the nanomolar range). On the basis of epigenetic functional cellular responses (levels of lysine 9 methylation and 5-methylcytosine), an acceptable therapeutic window (around 1 log unit) and a suitable pharmacokinetic profile, 12 was selected for in vivo proof-of-concept ( Nat. Commun. 2017 , 8 , 15424 ). Herein, 12 achieved a significant in vivo efficacy: 70% overall tumor growth inhibition of a human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) xenograft in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mario Fraga
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC) , Universidad de Oviedo-Principado de Asturias , Avenida de la Vega, 4-6 , 33940 El Entrego , Spain
| | - Pablo Santamarina
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC) , Universidad de Oviedo-Principado de Asturias , Avenida de la Vega, 4-6 , 33940 El Entrego , Spain
| | - Raul Fernandez Perez
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC) , Universidad de Oviedo-Principado de Asturias , Avenida de la Vega, 4-6 , 33940 El Entrego , Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yingying Liu
- WuXi Apptec (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., TEDA , No. 111 HuangHai Road, Fourth Avenue , Tianjin 300456 , PR China
| | - Wei Wu
- WuXi Apptec (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., TEDA , No. 111 HuangHai Road, Fourth Avenue , Tianjin 300456 , PR China
| | - Musheng Xu
- WuXi Apptec (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., TEDA , No. 111 HuangHai Road, Fourth Avenue , Tianjin 300456 , PR China
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Departmento de Hematología, Clinica Universidad de Navarra , University of Navarra , Avenida Pio XII 36 , E-31008 Pamplona , Spain
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27
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Lu W, Zhang R, Jiang H, Zhang H, Luo C. Computer-Aided Drug Design in Epigenetics. Front Chem 2018; 6:57. [PMID: 29594101 PMCID: PMC5857607 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2018.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic dysfunction has been widely implicated in several diseases especially cancers thus highlights the therapeutic potential for chemical interventions in this field. With rapid development of computational methodologies and high-performance computational resources, computer-aided drug design has emerged as a promising strategy to speed up epigenetic drug discovery. Herein, we make a brief overview of major computational methods reported in the literature including druggability prediction, virtual screening, homology modeling, scaffold hopping, pharmacophore modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, quantum chemistry calculation, and 3D quantitative structure activity relationship that have been successfully applied in the design and discovery of epi-drugs and epi-probes. Finally, we discuss about major limitations of current virtual drug design strategies in epigenetics drug discovery and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Lu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rukang Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huimin Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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28
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Lenstra DC, Al Temimi AHK, Mecinović J. Inhibition of histone lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP by ejection of structural Zn(II). Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2018. [PMID: 29519735 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2018.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP are validated targets for the development of new epigenetic drugs. Most, if not all, inhibitors of G9a and GLP target the histone substrate binding site or/and the S-adenosylmethionine cosubstrate binding site. Here, we report an alternative approach for inhibiting the methyltransferase activity of G9a and GLP. For proper folding and enzymatic activity, G9a and GLP contain structural zinc fingers, one of them being adjacent to the S-adenosylmethionine binding site. Our work demonstrates that targeting these labile zinc fingers with electrophilic small molecules results in ejection of structural zinc ions, and consequently inhibition of the methyltransferase activity. Very effective Zn(II) ejection and inhibition of G9a and GLP was observed with clinically used ebselen, disulfiram and cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny C Lenstra
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Abbas H K Al Temimi
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jasmin Mecinović
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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29
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Ginjala V, Rodriguez-Colon L, Ganguly B, Gangidi P, Gallina P, Al-Hraishawi H, Kulkarni A, Tang J, Gheeya J, Simhadri S, Yao M, Xia B, Ganesan S. Protein-lysine methyltransferases G9a and GLP1 promote responses to DNA damage. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16613. [PMID: 29192276 PMCID: PMC5709370 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16480-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Upon induction of DNA breaks, ATM activation leads to a cascade of local chromatin modifications that promote efficient recruitment of DNA repair proteins. Errors in this DNA repair pathway lead to genomic instability and cancer predisposition. Here, we show that the protein lysine methyltransferase G9a (also known as EHMT2) and GLP1 (also known as EHMT1) are critical components of the DNA repair pathway. G9a and GLP1 rapidly localizes to DNA breaks, with GLP1 localization being dependent on G9a. ATM phosphorylation of G9a on serine 569 is required for its recruitment to DNA breaks. G9a catalytic activity is required for the early recruitment of DNA repair factors including 53BP and BRCA1 to DNA breaks. Inhibition of G9a catalytic activity disrupts DNA repair pathways and increases sensitivity to ionizing radiation. Thus, G9a is a potential therapeutic target in the DNA repair pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasudeva Ginjala
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA.
| | - Lizahira Rodriguez-Colon
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Bratati Ganguly
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Prawallika Gangidi
- Cornell University, College of Engineering, Department of Biological Engineering, 111 Wing Drive, Ithaca, NY, 14853-5701, USA
| | - Paul Gallina
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Husam Al-Hraishawi
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Atul Kulkarni
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Jeremy Tang
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Jinesh Gheeya
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Srilatha Simhadri
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Ming Yao
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Bing Xia
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA
| | - Shridar Ganesan
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, 195 Little Albany street, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08903, USA.
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30
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Xiong Y, Li F, Babault N, Wu H, Dong A, Zeng H, Chen X, Arrowsmith CH, Brown PJ, Liu J, Vedadi M, Jin J. Structure-activity relationship studies of G9a-like protein (GLP) inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2017; 25:4414-4423. [PMID: 28662962 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Given the high homology between the protein lysine methyltransferases G9a-like protein (GLP) and G9a, it has been challenging to develop potent and selective inhibitors for either enzyme. Recently, we reported two quinazoline compounds, MS0124 and MS012, as GLP selective inhibitors. To further investigate the structure-activity relationships (SAR) of the quinazoline scaffold, we designed and synthesized a range of analogs bearing different 2-amino substitutions and evaluated their inhibition potencies against both GLP and G9a. These studies led to the identification of two new GLP selective inhibitors, 13 (MS3748) and 17 (MS3745), with 59- and 65-fold higher potency for GLP over G9a, which were confirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Crystal structures of GLP and G9a in complex with 13 and 17 provide insight into the interactions of the inhibitors with both proteins. In addition, we generated GLP selective inhibitors bearing a quinoline core instead of the quinazoline core.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiong
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Nicolas Babault
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Hong Wu
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Aiping Dong
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Hong Zeng
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Cheryl H Arrowsmith
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Peter J Brown
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Jian Jin
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
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31
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Abstract
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Post-translational
modifications of histones by protein methyltransferases
(PMTs) and histone demethylases (KDMs) play an important role in the
regulation of gene expression and transcription and are implicated
in cancer and many other diseases. Many of these enzymes also target
various nonhistone proteins impacting numerous crucial biological
pathways. Given their key biological functions and implications in
human diseases, there has been a growing interest in assessing these
enzymes as potential therapeutic targets. Consequently, discovering
and developing inhibitors of these enzymes has become a very active
and fast-growing research area over the past decade. In this review,
we cover the discovery, characterization, and biological application
of inhibitors of PMTs and KDMs with emphasis on key advancements in
the field. We also discuss challenges, opportunities, and future directions
in this emerging, exciting research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ümit Kaniskan
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Michael L Martini
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Jian Jin
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
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32
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Xiong Y, Li F, Babault N, Dong A, Zeng H, Wu H, Chen X, Arrowsmith CH, Brown PJ, Liu J, Vedadi M, Jin J. Discovery of Potent and Selective Inhibitors for G9a-Like Protein (GLP) Lysine Methyltransferase. J Med Chem 2017; 60:1876-1891. [PMID: 28135087 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b01645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
G9a-like protein (GLP) and G9a are highly homologous protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) sharing approximately 80% sequence identity in their catalytic domains. GLP and G9a form a heterodimer complex and catalyze mono- and dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 9 and nonhistone substrates. Although they are closely related, GLP and G9a possess distinct physiological and pathophysiological functions. Thus, GLP or G9a selective small-molecule inhibitors are useful tools to dissect their distinct biological functions. We previously reported potent and selective G9a/GLP dual inhibitors including UNC0638 and UNC0642. Here we report the discovery of potent and selective GLP inhibitors including 4 (MS0124) and 18 (MS012), which are >30-fold and 140-fold selective for GLP over G9a and other methyltransferases, respectively. The cocrystal structures of GLP and G9a in the complex with either 4 or 18 displayed virtually identical binding modes and interactions, highlighting the challenges in structure-based design of selective inhibitors for either enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiong
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Nicolas Babault
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Aiping Dong
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Hong Zeng
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Hong Wu
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Cheryl H Arrowsmith
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada.,Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Peter J Brown
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jian Jin
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, New York 10029, United States
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