1
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Wang Z, Che S, Yu Z. PROTAC: Novel degradable approach for different targets to treat breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 198:106793. [PMID: 38740076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106793] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The revolutionary Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTACs) have the exciting potential to reshape the pharmaceutical industry landscape by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system for targeted protein degradation. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer in women, could be treated using PROTAC therapy. Although substantial work has been conducted, there is not yet a comprehensive overview or progress update on PROTAC therapy for breast cancer. Hence, in this article, we've compiled recent research progress focusing on different breast cancer target proteins, such as estrogen receptor (ER), BET, CDK, HER2, PARP, EZH2, etc. This resource aims to serve as a guide for future PROTAC-based breast cancer treatment design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China; Office of Drug Clinical Trials, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China
| | - Siyao Che
- Hepatological Surgery Department, The People's Hospital of Gaozhou, Maoming, 525200, PR China.
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan 523018, PR China.
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2
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Long L, Fei X, Chen L, Yao L, Lei X. Potential therapeutic targets of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1381251. [PMID: 38699644 PMCID: PMC11063389 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1381251] [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: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses a significant clinical challenge due to its propensity for metastasis and poor prognosis. TNBC evades the body's immune system recognition and attack through various mechanisms, including the Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. This pathway, characterized by heightened activity in numerous solid tumors, exhibits pronounced activation in specific TNBC subtypes. Consequently, targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway emerges as a promising and precise therapeutic strategy for TNBC. The signal transduction cascade of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway predominantly involves receptor tyrosine kinases, the tyrosine kinase JAK2, and the transcription factor STAT3. Ongoing preclinical studies and clinical research are actively investigating this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for TNBC treatment. This article comprehensively reviews preclinical and clinical investigations into TNBC treatment by targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway using small molecule compounds. The review explores the role of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in TNBC therapeutics, evaluating the benefits and limitations of active inhibitors and proteolysis-targeting chimeras in TNBC treatment. The aim is to facilitate the development of novel small-molecule compounds that target TNBC effectively. Ultimately, this work seeks to contribute to enhancing therapeutic efficacy for patients with TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Long
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiangyu Fei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Liucui Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Liang Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Central Hospital of Hengyang, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaoyong Lei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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3
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Wang X, Qin ZL, Li N, Jia MQ, Liu QG, Bai YR, Song J, Yuan S, Zhang SY. Annual review of PROTAC degraders as anticancer agents in 2022. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 267:116166. [PMID: 38281455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116166] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Following nearly two decades of development, significant advancements have been achieved in PROTAC technology. As of the end of 2022, more than 20 drugs have entered clinical trials, with ARV-471 targeting estrogen receptor (ER) showing remarkable progress by entering phase III clinical studies. In 2022, significant progress has been made on multiple targets. The first reversible covalent degrader designed to target the KRASG12C mutant protein, based on cyclopropionamide, has been reported. Additionally, the activity HDCA1 degrader surpassed submicromolar levels during the same year. A novel FEM1B covalent ligand called EN106 was also discovered, expanding the range of available ligands. Furthermore, the first PROTAC drug targeting SOS1 was reported. Additionally, the first-in-class degraders that specifically target BRD4 isoforms (BRD4 L and BRD4 S) have recently been reported, providing a valuable tool for further investigating the biological functions of these isoforms. Lastly, a breakthrough was also achieved with the first degrader targeting both CDK9 and Cyclin T1. In this review, we aimed to update the PROTAC degraders as potential anticancer agents covering articles published in 2022. The design strategies, degradation effects, and anticancer activities were highlighted, which might provide an updated sight to develop novel PROTAC degraders with great potential as anticancer agents as well as favorable drug-like properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zhao-Long Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Na Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Mei-Qi Jia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Qiu-Ge Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yi-Ru Bai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery & Development, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jian Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Shuo Yuan
- Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450018, China.
| | - Sai-Yang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention &Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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4
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Ou Y, Wang M, Xu Q, Sun B, Jia Y. Small molecule agents for triple negative breast cancer: Current status and future prospects. Transl Oncol 2024; 41:101893. [PMID: 38290250 PMCID: PMC10840364 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101893] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer with poor prognosis. The number of cases increased by 2.26 million in 2020, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer type in the world. TNBCs lack hormone receptor (HR) and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2), which limits treatment options. Currently, paclitaxel-based drugs combined with other chemotherapeutics remain the main treatment for TNBC. There is currently no consensus on the best therapeutic regimen for TNBC. However, there have been successful clinical trials exploring large-molecule monoclonal antibodies, small-molecule targeted drugs, and novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Although monoclonal antibodies have produced clinical success, their large molecular weight can limit therapeutic benefits. It is worth noting that in the past 30 years, the FDA has approved small molecule drugs for HER2-positive breast cancers. The lack of effective targets and the occurrence of drug resistance pose significant challenges in the treatment of TNBC. To improve the prognosis of TNBC, it is crucial to search for effective targets and to overcome drug resistance. This review examines the clinical efficacy, adverse effects, resistance mechanisms, and potential solutions of targeted small molecule drugs in both monotherapies and combination therapies. New therapeutic targets, including nuclear export protein 1 (XPO1) and hedgehog (Hh), are emerging as potential options for researchers and become integrated into clinical trials for TNBC. Additionally, there is growing interest in the potential of targeted protein degradation chimeras (PROTACs), degraders of rogue proteins, as a future therapy direction. This review provides potentially valuable insights with clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ou
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengchao Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Xu
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Binxu Sun
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingjie Jia
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.
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5
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Yang N, Kong B, Zhu Z, Huang F, Zhang L, Lu T, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Jiang Y. Recent advances in targeted protein degraders as potential therapeutic agents. Mol Divers 2024; 28:309-333. [PMID: 36790583 PMCID: PMC9930057 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-023-10606-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) technology has gradually become widespread in the past 20 years, which greatly boosts the development of disease treatment. Contrary to small inhibitors that act on protein kinases, transcription factors, ion channels, and other targets they can bind to, targeted protein degraders could target "undruggable targets" and overcome drug resistance through ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) and lysosome pathway. Nowadays, some bivalent degraders such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have aroused great interest in drug discovery, and some of them have successfully advanced into clinical trials. In this review, to better understand the mechanism of degraders, we elucidate the targeted protein degraders according to their action process, relying on the ubiquitin-proteasome system or lysosome pathway. Then, we briefly summarize the study of PROTACs employing different E3 ligases. Subsequently, the effect of protein of interest (POI) ligands, linker, and E3 ligands on PROTAC degradation activity is also discussed in detail. Other novel technologies based on UPP and lysosome pathway have been discussed in this paper such as in-cell click-formed proteolysis-targeting chimeras (CLIPTACs), molecular glues, Antibody-PROTACs (Ab-PROTACs), autophagy-targeting chimeras, and lysosome-targeting chimeras. Based on the introduction of these degradation technologies, we can clearly understand the action process and degradation mechanism of these approaches. From this perspective, it will be convenient to obtain the development status of these drugs, choose appropriate degradation methods to achieve better disease treatment and provide basis for future research and simultaneously distinguish the direction of future research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Yang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Kong
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaohong Zhu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Huang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Liliang Zhang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Lu
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yadong Chen
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yulei Jiang
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
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6
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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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7
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Gan X, Wang F, Luo J, Zhao Y, Wang Y, Yu C, Chen J. Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) based on celastrol induce multiple protein degradation for triple-negative breast cancer treatment. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 192:106624. [PMID: 37898394 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106624] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
The pursuit of single drugs targeting multiple targets has become a prominent trend in modern cancer therapeutics. Natural products, known for their multi-targeting capabilities, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness, hold great potential for the development of multi-target drugs. However, their therapeutic efficacy is often hindered by complex structural modifications and limited anti-tumor activity. In this study, we present a novel approach using celastrol (CST)-based Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) for breast cancer therapy. Through rational design, we have successfully developed compound 6a, a potent multiple protein degrader capable of selectively degrading GRP94 and CDK1/4 in tumor cells via the endogenous ubiquitin-proteasome system. Furthermore, compound 6a has demonstrated remarkable inhibitory effects on cell proliferation and migration, and induction of apoptosis in 4T1 cells through cell cycle arrest and activation of the Bcl-2/Bax/cleaved Caspase-3 apoptotic pathway. In vivo administration of compound 6a has effectively suppressed tumor growth with an acceptable safety profile. Our findings suggest that the CST-based PROTACs described herein can be readily extended to other natural products, offering a potential avenue for the development of natural product-based PROTACs for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelan Gan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jianguo Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yunfei Zhao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chao Yu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Jun Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolism Research, Chongqing Pharmacodynamic Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China.
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8
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Masci D, Naro C, Puxeddu M, Urbani A, Sette C, La Regina G, Silvestri R. Recent Advances in Drug Discovery for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment. Molecules 2023; 28:7513. [PMID: 38005235 PMCID: PMC10672974 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28227513] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most heterogeneous and aggressive breast cancer subtypes with a high risk of death on recurrence. To date, TNBC is very difficult to treat due to the lack of an effective targeted therapy. However, recent advances in the molecular characterization of TNBC are encouraging the development of novel drugs and therapeutic combinations for its therapeutic management. In the present review, we will provide an overview of the currently available standard therapies and new emerging therapeutic strategies against TNBC, highlighting the promises that newly developed small molecules, repositioned drugs, and combination therapies have of improving treatment efficacy against these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domiziana Masci
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.U.)
| | - Chiara Naro
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.N.); (C.S.)
- GSTeP-Organoids Research Core Facility, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Puxeddu
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensivological and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.U.)
| | - Claudio Sette
- Department of Neurosciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.N.); (C.S.)
- GSTeP-Organoids Research Core Facility, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (G.L.R.)
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9
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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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10
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Yan Z, Du Y, Zhang H, Zheng Y, Lv H, Dong N, He F. Research progress of anticancer drugs targeting CDK12. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:1629-1644. [PMID: 37731700 PMCID: PMC10507796 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00004d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) is a transcription-associated CDK that plays key roles in transcription, translation, mRNA splicing, the cell cycle, and DNA damage repair. Research has identified that high expression of CDK12 in organs such as the breast, stomach, and uterus can lead to HER2-positive breast cancer, gastric cancer and cervical cancer. Inhibiting high expression of CDK12 suppresses tumor growth and proliferation, suggesting that it is both a biomarker for cancer and a potential target for cancer therapy. CDK12 inhibitors can competitively bind the CDK12 hydrophobic pocket with ATP to avoid CDK12 phosphorylation, blocking subsequent signaling pathways. The development of CDK12 inhibitors is challenging due to the high homology of CDK12 with other CDKs. This review summarizes the research progress of CDK12 inhibitors, their mechanism of action and the structure-activity relationship, providing new insights into the design of CDK12 selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijia Yan
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Yongli Du
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Haibin Zhang
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Yong Zheng
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Huiting Lv
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Ning Dong
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences) 3501 Da Xue Road Jinan 250353 China
| | - Fang He
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan 336 Nanxinzhuang West Road Jinan 250022 China
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11
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Pluta AJ, Studniarek C, Murphy S, Norbury CJ. Cyclin-dependent kinases: Masters of the eukaryotic universe. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 15:e1816. [PMID: 37718413 PMCID: PMC10909489 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
A family of structurally related cyclin-dependent protein kinases (CDKs) drives many aspects of eukaryotic cell function. Much of the literature in this area has considered individual members of this family to act primarily either as regulators of the cell cycle, the context in which CDKs were first discovered, or as regulators of transcription. Until recently, CDK7 was the only clear example of a CDK that functions in both processes. However, new data points to several "cell-cycle" CDKs having important roles in transcription and some "transcriptional" CDKs having cell cycle-related targets. For example, novel functions in transcription have been demonstrated for the archetypal cell cycle regulator CDK1. The increasing evidence of the overlap between these two CDK types suggests that they might play a critical role in coordinating the two processes. Here we review the canonical functions of cell-cycle and transcriptional CDKs, and provide an update on how these kinases collaborate to perform important cellular functions. We also provide a brief overview of how dysregulation of CDKs contributes to carcinogenesis, and possible treatment avenues. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Processing > 3' End Processing RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shona Murphy
- Sir William Dunn School of PathologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Chris J. Norbury
- Sir William Dunn School of PathologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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12
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Pitolli C, Marini A, Guerra M, Pieraccioli M, Marabitti V, Palluzzi F, Giacò L, Tamburrini G, Cecconi F, Nazio F, Sette C, Pagliarini V. MYC up-regulation confers vulnerability to dual inhibition of CDK12 and CDK13 in high-risk Group 3 medulloblastoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:214. [PMID: 37599362 PMCID: PMC10440921 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02790-2] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common cerebellar malignancy during childhood. Among MB, MYC-amplified Group 3 tumors display the worst prognosis. MYC is an oncogenic transcription factor currently thought to be undruggable. Nevertheless, targeting MYC-dependent processes (i.e. transcription and RNA processing regulation) represents a promising approach. METHODS We have tested the sensitivity of MYC-driven Group 3 MB cells to a pool of transcription and splicing inhibitors that display a wide spectrum of targets. Among them, we focus on THZ531, an inhibitor of the transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 12 and 13. High-throughput RNA-sequencing analyses followed by bioinformatics and functional analyses were carried out to elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) underlying the susceptibility of Group 3 MB to CDK12/13 chemical inhibition. Data from International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and other public databases were mined to evaluate the functional relevance of the cellular pathway/s affected by the treatment with THZ531 in Group 3 MB patients. RESULTS We found that pharmacological inhibition of CDK12/13 is highly selective for MYC-high Group 3 MB cells with respect to MYC-low MB cells. We identified a subset of genes enriched in functional terms related to the DNA damage response (DDR) that are up-regulated in Group 3 MB and repressed by CDK12/13 inhibition. Accordingly, MYC- and CDK12/13-dependent higher expression of DDR genes in Group 3 MB cells limits the toxic effects of endogenous DNA lesions in these cells. More importantly, chemical inhibition of CDK12/13 impaired the DDR and induced irreparable DNA damage exclusively in MYC-high Group 3 MB cells. The augmented sensitivity of MYC-high MB cells to CDK12/13 inhibition relies on the higher elongation rate of the RNA polymerase II in DDR genes. Lastly, combined treatments with THZ531 and DNA damage-inducing agents synergically suppressed viability of MYC-high Group 3 MB cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that CDK12/13 activity represents an exploitable vulnerability in MYC-high Group 3 MB and may pave the ground for new therapeutic approaches for this high-risk brain tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Pitolli
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Marini
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
- GSTEP-Organoids Research Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Marika Guerra
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Pieraccioli
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
- GSTEP-Organoids Research Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Marabitti
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fernando Palluzzi
- Bioinformatics Research Core Facility, Gemelli Science and Technology Park (GSTeP), IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Present Address: Integrated Omics Department, Novo Nordisk, 2860, Søborg, Denmark
| | - Luciano Giacò
- Bioinformatics Research Core Facility, Gemelli Science and Technology Park (GSTeP), IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianpiero Tamburrini
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Cecconi
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive Care and Perioperative Clinics Research, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Unit of Cell Stress and Survival, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francesca Nazio
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Sette
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy.
- GSTEP-Organoids Research Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Vittoria Pagliarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy.
- GSTEP-Organoids Research Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, 00168, Rome, Italy.
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Xiao Y, Dong J. Coming of Age: Targeting Cyclin K in Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:2044. [PMID: 37626854 PMCID: PMC10453554 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162044] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) play versatile roles in promoting the hallmarks of cancer. Therefore, cyclins and CDKs have been widely studied and targeted in cancer treatment, with four CDK4/6 inhibitors being approved by the FDA and many other inhibitors being examined in clinical trials. The specific purpose of this review is to delineate the role and therapeutic potential of Cyclin K in cancers. Studies have shown that Cyclin K regulates many essential biological processes, including the DNA damage response, mitosis, and pre-replicative complex assembly, and is critical in both cancer cell growth and therapeutic resistance. Importantly, the druggability of Cyclin K has been demonstrated in an increasing number of studies that identify novel opportunities for its use in cancer treatment. This review first introduces the basic features and translational value of human cyclins and CDKs. Next, the discovery, phosphorylation targets, and related functional significance of Cyclin K-CDK12/13 complexes in cancer are detailed. This review then provides a summary of current Cyclin K-associated cancer studies, with an emphasis on the available Cyclin K-targeting drugs. Finally, the current knowledge gaps regarding the potential of Cyclin K in cancers are discussed, along with interesting directions for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jixin Dong
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
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14
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Xin Y, Zhang Y. Paralog-based synthetic lethality: rationales and applications. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1168143. [PMID: 37350942 PMCID: PMC10282757 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1168143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells can result from gene mutations and over-expression. Synthetic lethality (SL) offers a desirable setting where cancer cells bearing one mutated gene of an SL gene pair can be specifically targeted by disrupting the function of the other genes, while leaving wide-type normal cells unharmed. Paralogs, a set of homologous genes that have diverged from each other as a consequence of gene duplication, make the concept of SL feasible as the loss of one gene does not affect the cell's survival. Furthermore, homozygous loss of paralogs in tumor cells is more frequent than singletons, making them ideal SL targets. Although high-throughput CRISPR-Cas9 screenings have uncovered numerous paralog-based SL pairs, the unclear mechanisms of targeting these gene pairs and the difficulty in finding specific inhibitors that exclusively target a single but not both paralogs hinder further clinical development. Here, we review the potential mechanisms of paralog-based SL given their function and genetic combination, and discuss the challenge and application prospects of paralog-based SL in cancer therapeutic discovery.
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15
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Araki S, Ohori M, Yugami M. Targeting pre-mRNA splicing in cancers: roles, inhibitors, and therapeutic opportunities. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1152087. [PMID: 37342192 PMCID: PMC10277747 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1152087] [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: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has indicated that pre-mRNA splicing plays critical roles in a variety of physiological processes, including development of multiple diseases. In particular, alternative splicing is profoundly involved in cancer progression through abnormal expression or mutation of splicing factors. Small-molecule splicing modulators have recently attracted considerable attention as a novel class of cancer therapeutics, and several splicing modulators are currently being developed for the treatment of patients with various cancers and are in the clinical trial stage. Novel molecular mechanisms modulating alternative splicing have proven to be effective for treating cancer cells resistant to conventional anticancer drugs. Furthermore, molecular mechanism-based combination strategies and patient stratification strategies for cancer treatment targeting pre-mRNA splicing must be considered for cancer therapy in the future. This review summarizes recent progress in the relationship between druggable splicing-related molecules and cancer, highlights small-molecule splicing modulators, and discusses future perspectives of splicing modulation for personalized and combination therapies in cancer treatment.
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16
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Liang J, Wu Y, Lan K, Dong C, Wu S, Li S, Zhou HB. Antiviral PROTACs: Opportunity borne with challenge. CELL INSIGHT 2023; 2:100092. [PMID: 37398636 PMCID: PMC10308200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2023.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) degradation of pathogenic proteins by hijacking of the ubiquitin-proteasome-system has become a promising strategy in drug design. The overwhelming advantages of PROTAC technology have ensured a rapid and wide usage, and multiple PROTACs have entered clinical trials. Several antiviral PROTACs have been developed with promising bioactivities against various pathogenic viruses. However, the number of reported antiviral PROTACs is far less than that of other diseases, e.g., cancers, immune disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, possibly because of the common deficiencies of PROTAC technology (e.g., limited available ligands and poor membrane permeability) plus the complex mechanism involved and the high tendency of viral mutation during transmission and replication, which may challenge the successful development of effective antiviral PROTACs. This review highlights the important advances in this rapidly growing field and critical limitations encountered in developing antiviral PROTACs by analyzing the current status and representative examples of antiviral PROTACs and other PROTAC-like antiviral agents. We also summarize and analyze the general principles and strategies for antiviral PROTAC design and optimization with the intent of indicating the potential strategic directions for future progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsen Liang
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yihe Wu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ke Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Chune Dong
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shuwen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Shu Li
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hai-Bing Zhou
- Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (MOE) and Hubei Province Engineering and Technology Research Center for Fluorinated Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
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17
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Rao Z, Li K, Hong J, Chen D, Ding B, Jiang L, Qi X, Hu J, Yang B, He Q, Dong X, Cao J, Zhu CL. A practical "preTACs-cytoblot" platform accelerates the streamlined development of PROTAC-based protein degraders. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 251:115248. [PMID: 36905918 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115248] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
With the growing importance of PROTAC-mediated protein degradation in drug discovery, robust synthetic methodologies and rapid screening assays are urgently needed. By harnessing the improved alkene hydroazidation reaction, we developed a novel strategy to introduce azido groups into the linker-E3 ligand conjugates and effectively created a range of prepacked terminal azide-labeled "preTACs" as PROTAC toolkit building blocks. Moreover, we demonstrated that preTACs are ready to conjugate to ligands targeting a protein of interest to generate libraries of chimeric degraders, which are subsequently screened for effective protein degradation directly from cultured cells with a cytoblot assay. Our study exemplifies that this practical "preTACs-cytoblot" platform allows efficient PROTAC assembly and rapid activity assessments. It may help industrial and academic investigators to accelerate their streamlined development of PROTAC-based protein degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Rao
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Kailin Li
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Ju Hong
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Danni Chen
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Baoli Ding
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Li Jiang
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Xuxin Qi
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Jiawen Hu
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Bo Yang
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China; Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Qiaojun He
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Centre for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of ZJU, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China; Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Cancer Centre, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Xiaowu Dong
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China; Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Cancer Centre, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Ji Cao
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China; Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Cancer Centre, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Innovative Anticancer Drugs, Ministry of Education, China.
| | - Cheng-Liang Zhu
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Centre for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of ZJU, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, PR China; Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Innovative Anticancer Drugs, Ministry of Education, China.
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18
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Wilson J, Loizou JI. Exploring the genetic space of the DNA damage response for cancer therapy through CRISPR-based screens. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3778-3791. [PMID: 35708734 PMCID: PMC9627789 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The concepts of synthetic lethality and viability have emerged as powerful approaches to identify vulnerabilities and resistances within the DNA damage response for the treatment of cancer. Historically, interactions between two genes have had a longstanding presence in genetics and have been identified through forward genetic screens that rely on the molecular basis of the characterized phenotypes, typically caused by mutations in single genes. While such complex genetic interactions between genes have been studied extensively in model organisms, they have only recently been prioritized as therapeutic strategies due to technological advancements in genetic screens. Here, we discuss synthetic lethal and viable interactions within the DNA damage response and present how CRISPR-based genetic screens and chemical compounds have allowed for the systematic identification and targeting of such interactions for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Wilson
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer CentreMedical University of ViennaAustria,CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of SciencesViennaAustria
| | - Joanna I. Loizou
- Center for Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer CentreMedical University of ViennaAustria,CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of SciencesViennaAustria
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Tang R, Liu J, Li S, Zhang J, Yu C, Liu H, Chen F, Lv L, Zhang Q, Yuan K, Shao H. A patent and literature review of CDK12 inhibitors. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2022; 32:1055-1065. [PMID: 36120913 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2022.2126765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) belongs to the CDK family of serine/threonine protein kinases and associates with cyclin K to exert its biological functions, including regulating gene transcription, mRNA processing and translation. Increasing evidences demonstrate the importance of CDK12 in various human cancers, illustrating its potential as both biomarker and therapeutic target. In addition, CDK12 is also a promising target for the treatment of myotonic dystrophy type 1. Efforts have been taken to discover small molecule inhibitors to validate this important therapeutic target. AREAS COVERED This review covers the patented CDK12 inhibitors from 2016 to present, as well as these from peer-reviewed literature. It provides the reader an update of the discovery strategies, chemical structures and molecular profiling of all available CDK12 inhibitors. EXPERT OPINION CDK12 inhibitors with various mechanism of actions have been discovered and it is a great set of tools to evaluate the therapeutic potential of CDK12 in different disease models. CDK12 inhibitors have shown promising results in myotonic dystrophy type 1 mouse model and several preclinical cancer models either as single agent or combination with other anti-cancer agents. Its therapeutic value awaits more rigorous preclinical testing and further clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijun Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.,Center for Clinical Biorepositories and Biospecimen & Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Shuyao Li
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Chunhong Yu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Honglu Liu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Lu Lv
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.,The Biobank of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Hao Shao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Department of Oncology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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20
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van der Noord VE, van de Water B, Le Dévédec SE. Targeting the Heterogeneous Genomic Landscape in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer through Inhibitors of the Transcriptional Machinery. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4353. [PMID: 36139513 PMCID: PMC9496798 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184353] [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: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer defined by lack of the estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Although TNBC tumors contain a wide variety of oncogenic mutations and copy number alterations, the direct targeting of these alterations has failed to substantially improve therapeutic efficacy. This efficacy is strongly limited by interpatient and intratumor heterogeneity, and thereby a lack in uniformity of targetable drivers. Most of these genetic abnormalities eventually drive specific transcriptional programs, which may be a general underlying vulnerability. Currently, there are multiple selective inhibitors, which target the transcriptional machinery through transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) 7, 8, 9, 12 and 13 and bromodomain extra-terminal motif (BET) proteins, including BRD4. In this review, we discuss how inhibitors of the transcriptional machinery can effectively target genetic abnormalities in TNBC, and how these abnormalities can influence sensitivity to these inhibitors. These inhibitors target the genomic landscape in TNBC by specifically suppressing MYC-driven transcription, inducing further DNA damage, improving anti-cancer immunity, and preventing drug resistance against MAPK and PI3K-targeted therapies. Because the transcriptional machinery enables transcription and propagation of multiple cancer drivers, it may be a promising target for (combination) treatment, especially of heterogeneous malignancies, including TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sylvia E. Le Dévédec
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
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21
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Yang J, Chang Y, Tien JCY, Wang Z, Zhou Y, Zhang P, Huang W, Vo J, Apel IJ, Wang C, Zeng VZ, Cheng Y, Li S, Wang GX, Chinnaiyan AM, Ding K. Discovery of a Highly Potent and Selective Dual PROTAC Degrader of CDK12 and CDK13. J Med Chem 2022; 65:11066-11083. [PMID: 35938508 PMCID: PMC9876424 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Selective degradation of the cyclin-dependent kinases 12 and 13 (CDK12/13) presents a novel therapeutic opportunity for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but there is still a lack of dual CDK12/13 degraders. Here, we report the discovery of the first series of highly potent and selective dual CDK12/13 degraders by employing the proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology. The optimal compound 7f effectively degraded CDK12 and CDK13 with DC50 values of 2.2 and 2.1 nM, respectively, in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Global proteomic profiling demonstrated the target selectivity of 7f. In vitro, 7f suppressed expression of core DNA damage response (DDR) genes in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Further, 7f markedly inhibited proliferation of multiple TNBC cell lines including MFM223, with an IC50 value of 47 nM. Importantly, 7f displayed a significantly improved antiproliferative activity compared to the structurally similar inhibitor 4, suggesting the potential advantage of a CDK12/13 degrader for TNBC targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhang Yang
- International
Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization
and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE),
Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development,
College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue East, Guangzhou 511400, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Chang
- International
Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization
and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE),
Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development,
College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue East, Guangzhou 511400, People’s Republic of China
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jean Ching-Yi Tien
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Zhen Wang
- State
Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, #345 Ling Ling Road, Shanghai 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhou
- International
Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization
and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE),
Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development,
College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue East, Guangzhou 511400, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pujuan Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, #345 Ling Ling Road, Shanghai 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weixue Huang
- State
Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, #345 Ling Ling Road, Shanghai 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Josh Vo
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Ingrid J. Apel
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Cynthia Wang
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Victoria Zhixuan Zeng
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yunhui Cheng
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Shuqin Li
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - George Xiaoju Wang
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Arul M. Chinnaiyan
- Michigan
Center for Translational Pathology, University
of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Howard Hughes
Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Ke Ding
- International
Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization
and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE),
Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development,
College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, 855 Xingye Avenue East, Guangzhou 511400, People’s Republic of China
- State
Key Laboratory of Bioorganic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, #345 Ling Ling Road, Shanghai 200032, People’s Republic of China
- Institute
of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, People’s Republic of China
- The
First Affiliated Hospital (Huaqiao Hospital), Jinan University, 601
Huangpu Avenue West, Guangzhou 510632, China
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22
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Novel 2,6,9-Trisubstituted Purines as Potent CDK Inhibitors Alleviating Trastuzumab-Resistance of HER2-Positive Breast Cancers. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15091041. [PMID: 36145262 PMCID: PMC9506414 DOI: 10.3390/ph15091041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer is defined by HER2 oncogene amplification on chromosome 17q12 and accounts for 15−20% population of breast-cancer patients. Therapeutic anti-HER2 antibody such as trastuzumab is used as the first-line therapy for HER2-positive breast cancers. However, more than 50% of the patients respond poorly to trastuzumab, illustrating that novel therapy is warranted to overcome the resistance. We previously reported that in the majority of HER2+ breast-cancer patients, CDK12 is co-amplified on 17q12 and involved in developing tumors and trastuzumab resistance, proposing CDK12 as a potential drug target for HER2+ breast cancers. Here, we designed and synthesized novel 2,6,9-trisubstituted purines as potent CDK12 inhibitors showing strong, equipotent antiproliferative activity against trastuzumab-sensitive HER2+ SK-Br3 cells and trastuzumab-resistant HER2+ HCC1954 cells (GI50 values < 50 nM) both of which express a high level of CDK12. Two potent analogue 30d and 30e at 40, 200 nM greatly downregulated the levels of cyclinK and Pol II p-CTD (Ser2), as well as the expression of CDK12 downstream genes (IRS1 and WNT1) in a dose-dependent manner. We also observed structure-property relationship for a subset of potent analogues, and found that 30e is highly stable in liver microsomes with lack of CYP inhibition. In addition, 30d exhibited a synergy with trastuzumab in the both cells, suggesting that our inhibitors could be applied to alleviate trastuzumab-resistance of HER2+ breast cancers and escalate the efficacy of trastuzumab as well. Our study may provide insight into developing a novel therapy for HER2+ breast cancers.
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23
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Lei P, Zhang J, Liao P, Ren C, Wang J, Wang Y. Current progress and novel strategies that target CDK12 for drug discovery. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 240:114603. [PMID: 35868123 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CDK12 is a cyclin-dependent kinase that plays critical roles in DNA replication, transcription, mRNA splicing, and DNA damage repair. CDK12 genomic changes, including mutation, amplification, deletion, and fusion, lead to various cancers, such as colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, and ovarian cancer. An increasing number of CDK12 inhibitors have been reported since CDK12 was identified as a biomarker and cancer therapeutic target. A major challenge lies in that CDK12 and CDK13 share highly similar sequences, which leads to great difficulties in the development of highly selective CDK12 inhibitors. In recent years, great efforts were made in developing selective CDK12 blockers. Techniques including PROTAC and molecular glue degraders were also applied to facilitate their development. Also, the drug combination strategy of CDK12 small molecule inhibitors were studied. This review discusses the latest studies on CDK12 inhibitors and analyzes their structure-activity relationships, shedding light on their further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lei
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Peiyu Liao
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, Sichuan, China
| | - Changyu Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, Tennessee, United States
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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24
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Guo X, Chen H, Zhou Y, Shen L, Wu S, Chen Y. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibition and its intersection with immunotherapy in breast cancer: more than CDK4/6 inhibition. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:933-944. [PMID: 35786092 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2097067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) have had clinical success in treating hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Notably, CDK4/6i have expanded to the neoadjuvant setting for early breast cancer and other cancer types and potently synergize with immunotherapy. Other CDKs, including CDK7, CDK9, and CDK12/13, mainly function in transcriptional processes as well as cell cycle regulation, RNA splicing, and DNA damage response. Inhibiting these CDKs aids in suppressing tumors, reversing drug resistance, increasing drug sensitivity, and enhancing anti-tumor immunity in breast cancer. AREAS COVERED We reviewed the applications of CDK4/6i, CDK7i, CDK9i and CDK12/13i for various breast cancer subtypes and their potentials for combination with immunotherapy. A literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted in April 2022. EXPERT OPINION The use of CDK4/6i represents a major milestone in breast cancer treatment. Moreover, transcription-related CDKs play critical roles in tumor development and are promising therapeutic targets for breast cancer. Some relevant clinical studies are underway. More specific and efficient CDKis will undoubtedly be developed and clinically tested. Characterization of their immune-priming effects will promote the development of combination therapies consisting of CDKi and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianan Guo
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huihui Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shijie Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiding Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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25
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He M, Cao C, Ni Z, Liu Y, Song P, Hao S, He Y, Sun X, Rao Y. PROTACs: great opportunities for academia and industry (an update from 2020 to 2021). Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:181. [PMID: 35680848 PMCID: PMC9178337 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00999-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) technology is a new protein-degradation strategy that has emerged in recent years. It uses bifunctional small molecules to induce the ubiquitination and degradation of target proteins through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. PROTACs can not only be used as potential clinical treatments for diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, viral infections, and neurodegenerative diseases, but also provide unique chemical knockdown tools for biological research in a catalytic, reversible, and rapid manner. In 2019, our group published a review article “PROTACs: great opportunities for academia and industry” in the journal, summarizing the representative compounds of PROTACs reported before the end of 2019. In the past 2 years, the entire field of protein degradation has experienced rapid development, including not only a large increase in the number of research papers on protein-degradation technology but also a rapid increase in the number of small-molecule degraders that have entered the clinical and will enter the clinical stage. In addition to PROTAC and molecular glue technology, other new degradation technologies are also developing rapidly. In this article, we mainly summarize and review the representative PROTACs of related targets published in 2020–2021 to present to researchers the exciting developments in the field of protein degradation. The problems that need to be solved in this field will also be briefly introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming He
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Chaoguo Cao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China.,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zhihao Ni
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yongbo Liu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Peilu Song
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Hao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yuna He
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiuyun Sun
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yu Rao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, P. R. China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, China.
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26
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Torres-Ayuso P, Brognard J. Degraders: The Ultimate Weapon Against Amplified Driver Kinases in Cancer. Mol Pharmacol 2022; 101:191-200. [PMID: 35115411 PMCID: PMC9092480 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Amplification of pro-oncogenic kinases is a common genetic alteration driving tumorigenic phenotypes. Cancer cells rely on the amplified kinases to sustain cell proliferation, survival, and growth, presenting an opportunity to develop therapies targeting the amplified kinases. Utilizing small molecule catalytic inhibitors as therapies to target amplified kinases is plagued by de novo resistance driven by increased expression of the target, and amplified kinases can drive tumorigenic phenotypes independent of catalytic activity. Here, we discuss the emergence of proteolysis-targeting chimeras that provide an opportunity to target these oncogenic drivers effectively. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Protein kinases contribute to tumorigenesis through catalytic and noncatalytic mechanisms, and kinase gene amplifications are well described mechanisms of resistance to small molecule catalytic inhibitors. Repurposing catalytic inhibitors for the development of protein degraders will offer improved clinical benefits by targeting noncatalytic functions of kinases that promote tumorigenesis and overcoming resistance due to amplification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Torres-Ayuso
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Signaling, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - John Brognard
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Signaling, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
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27
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Liu Y, Fu L, Wu J, Liu M, Wang G, Liu B, Zhang L. Transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases: Potential drug targets in cancer therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 229:114056. [PMID: 34942431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.114056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the wake of the development of the concept of cell cycle and its limiting points, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are considered to play a central role in regulating cell cycle progression. Recent studies have strongly demonstrated that CDKs also has multiple functions, especially in response to extracellular and intracellular signals by interfering with transcriptional events. Consequently, how to inhibit their function has been a hot research topic. It is worth noting that the key role of CDKs in regulating transcription has been explored in recent years, but its related pharmacological targets are less developed, and most inhibitors have not entered the clinical stage. Accordingly, this perspective focus on the biological functions of transcription related CDKs and their complexes, some key upstream and downstream signals, and inhibitors for cancer treatment in recent years. In addition, some corresponding combined treatment strategies will provide a more novel perspective for future cancer remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China
| | - Junhao Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, 610031, Chengdu, China.
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