1
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Dunge A, Phan C, Uwangue O, Bjelcic M, Gunnarsson J, Wehlander G, Käck H, Brändén G. Exploring serial crystallography for drug discovery. IUCRJ 2024; 11:831-842. [PMID: 39072424 PMCID: PMC11364032 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252524006134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Structure-based drug design is highly dependent on the availability of structures of the protein of interest in complex with lead compounds. Ideally, this information can be used to guide the chemical optimization of a compound into a pharmaceutical drug candidate. A limitation of the main structural method used today - conventional X-ray crystallography - is that it only provides structural information about the protein complex in its frozen state. Serial crystallography is a relatively new approach that offers the possibility to study protein structures at room temperature (RT). Here, we explore the use of serial crystallography to determine the structures of the pharmaceutical target, soluble epoxide hydrolase. We introduce a new method to screen for optimal microcrystallization conditions suitable for use in serial crystallography and present a number of RT ligand-bound structures of our target protein. From a comparison between the RT structural data and previously published cryo-temperature structures, we describe an example of a temperature-dependent difference in the ligand-binding mode and observe that flexible loops are better resolved at RT. Finally, we discuss the current limitations and potential future advances of serial crystallography for use within pharmaceutical drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Dunge
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - C. Phan
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - O. Uwangue
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
| | - M. Bjelcic
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
- MAX IV LaboratoryLund UniversityPO Box 118SE-221 00LundSweden
| | - J. Gunnarsson
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - G. Wehlander
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
| | - H. Käck
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1SE-431 83GothenburgSweden
| | - G. Brändén
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of GothenburgBox 462SE-405 30GothenburgSweden
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2
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Pandey V, Pandey T. Understanding the bio-crystallization: An insight to therapeutic relevance. Biophys Chem 2024; 308:107216. [PMID: 38479205 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
In the realm of biomedical engineering and materials science, the synthesis of biomaterials plays a pivotal role in advancing therapeutic strategies for regeneration of tissues. The deliberate control of crystallization processes in biomaterial synthesis has emerged as a key avenue for tailoring the properties of these materials, enabling the design of innovative solutions for a wide array of medical applications. This review delves into the interplay between controlled crystallization and biomaterial synthesis, exploring its multifaceted applications in the therapeutic domains. The investigation encompasses a wide spectrum of matrices, ranging from small molecules to large biomolecules, highlighting their unique contributions in modulating crystallization processes. Furthermore, the review critically assesses the analytical techniques and methodologies employed to probe and characterize the depths of crystallization dynamics. Advanced imaging, spectroscopic, and computational tools are discussed in the context of unraveling the intricate mechanisms governing nucleation and crystallization processes within the organic matrix. Finally we delve in the applications of such advance material in therapeutics of hard and soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Pandey
- Department of Chemistry, School for Chemical Engineering and Physical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.
| | - Tejasvi Pandey
- Department of Forensic Sciences, School for Bioengineering and Biosciences Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
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3
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Feng S, Aplin C, Nguyen TTT, Milano SK, Cerione RA. Filament formation drives catalysis by glutaminase enzymes important in cancer progression. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1971. [PMID: 38438397 PMCID: PMC10912226 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46351-3] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The glutaminase enzymes GAC and GLS2 catalyze the hydrolysis of glutamine to glutamate, satisfying the 'glutamine addiction' of cancer cells. They are the targets of anti-cancer drugs; however, their mechanisms of activation and catalytic activity have been unclear. Here we demonstrate that the ability of GAC and GLS2 to form filaments is directly coupled to their catalytic activity and present their cryo-EM structures which provide a view of the conformational states essential for catalysis. Filament formation guides an 'activation loop' to assume a specific conformation that works together with a 'lid' to close over the active site and position glutamine for nucleophilic attack by an essential serine. Our findings highlight how ankyrin repeats on GLS2 regulate enzymatic activity, while allosteric activators stabilize, and clinically relevant inhibitors block, filament formation that enables glutaminases to catalyze glutaminolysis and support cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Feng
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Cody Aplin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Thuy-Tien T Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Shawn K Milano
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Richard A Cerione
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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4
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Ma F, Zhao L, Ma R, Wang J, Du L. FoxO signaling and mitochondria-related apoptosis pathways mediate tsinling lenok trout (Brachymystax lenok tsinlingensis) liver injury under high temperature stress. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 251:126404. [PMID: 37597633 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Tsinling lenok trout (Brachymystax lenok tsinlingensis) is a typical cold water fish. High temperature has been shown to damage the liver of fish. However, few studies have investigated the liver apoptosis induced by high temperature stress in fish from the perspective of gene expression and metabolic function. Therefore, we investigated the changes caused by high temperature stress (24 °C) on the liver tissue structure, antioxidant capacity, liver gene expression, and the metabolome of tsinling lenok trout. The transcriptomic results showed that genes associated with apoptosis, such as CASP8, CASP3, PERK, Bcl-6 and TRAIL, were upregulated under high temperature stress. Metabolomic analysis showed that the metabolic pathway of nucleotide synthesis was significantly downregulated, while that of oxygen radical synthesis was significantly upregulated. Integrated analysis showed that after high temperature stress, immune-related signaling pathways in trout were activated and their apoptosis level increased, which might be related to hepatopancreas injury. In addition, abnormalities in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and mitochondrial function were observed, suggesting that functional hypoxia caused by high temperature might be involved fish cell apoptosis. These results provide new insights into the process of cell apoptosis in fish under high temperature stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization of Agricultural Solid Waste in Gansu Province, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu Province, PR China.
| | - Lei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization of Agricultural Solid Waste in Gansu Province, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - Ruilin Ma
- Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization of Agricultural Solid Waste in Gansu Province, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - Jing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization of Agricultural Solid Waste in Gansu Province, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - Leqiang Du
- Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization of Agricultural Solid Waste in Gansu Province, Tianshui Normal University, Tianshui, Gansu Province, PR China
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5
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Greene KS, Choi A, Chen M, Yang N, Li R, Qiu Y, Lukey MJ, Rojas KS, Shen J, Wilson KF, Katt WP, Whittaker GR, Cerione RA. Inhibiting Glutamine Metabolism Blocks Coronavirus Replication in Mammalian Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.27.559756. [PMID: 37808692 PMCID: PMC10557708 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.559756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Developing therapeutic strategies against COVID-19 has gained widespread interest given the likelihood that new viral variants will continue to emerge. Here we describe one potential therapeutic strategy which involves targeting members of the glutaminase family of mitochondrial metabolic enzymes (GLS and GLS2), which catalyze the first step in glutamine metabolism, the hydrolysis of glutamine to glutamate. We show three examples where GLS expression increases during coronavirus infection of host cells, and another in which GLS2 is upregulated. The viruses hijack the metabolic machinery responsible for glutamine metabolism to generate the building blocks for biosynthetic processes and satisfy the bioenergetic requirements demanded by the 'glutamine addiction' of virus-infected host cells. We demonstrate how genetic silencing of glutaminase enzymes reduces coronavirus infection and that newer members of two classes of small molecule allosteric inhibitors targeting these enzymes, designated as SU1, a pan-GLS/GLS2 inhibitor, and UP4, which is specific for GLS, block viral replication in mammalian epithelial cells. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of glutamine metabolism for coronavirus replication in human cells and show that glutaminase inhibitors can block coronavirus infection and thereby may represent a novel class of anti-viral drug candidates. Teaser Inhibitors targeting glutaminase enzymes block coronavirus replication and may represent a new class of anti-viral drugs.
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6
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Cooper AJL, Dorai T, Pinto JT, Denton TT. Metabolic Heterogeneity, Plasticity, and Adaptation to "Glutamine Addiction" in Cancer Cells: The Role of Glutaminase and the GTωA [Glutamine Transaminase-ω-Amidase (Glutaminase II)] Pathway. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1131. [PMID: 37627015 PMCID: PMC10452834 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Many cancers utilize l-glutamine as a major energy source. Often cited in the literature as "l-glutamine addiction", this well-characterized pathway involves hydrolysis of l-glutamine by a glutaminase to l-glutamate, followed by oxidative deamination, or transamination, to α-ketoglutarate, which enters the tricarboxylic acid cycle. However, mammalian tissues/cancers possess a rarely mentioned, alternative pathway (the glutaminase II pathway): l-glutamine is transaminated to α-ketoglutaramate (KGM), followed by ω-amidase (ωA)-catalyzed hydrolysis of KGM to α-ketoglutarate. The name glutaminase II may be confused with the glutaminase 2 (GLS2) isozyme. Thus, we recently renamed the glutaminase II pathway the "glutamine transaminase-ω-amidase (GTωA)" pathway. Herein, we summarize the metabolic importance of the GTωA pathway, including its role in closing the methionine salvage pathway, and as a source of anaplerotic α-ketoglutarate. An advantage of the GTωA pathway is that there is no net change in redox status, permitting α-ketoglutarate production during hypoxia, diminishing cellular energy demands. We suggest that the ability to coordinate control of both pathways bestows a metabolic advantage to cancer cells. Finally, we discuss possible benefits of GTωA pathway inhibitors, not only as aids to studying the normal biological roles of the pathway but also as possible useful anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur J. L. Cooper
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA; (T.D.); (J.T.P.)
| | - Thambi Dorai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA; (T.D.); (J.T.P.)
- Department of Urology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - John T. Pinto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA; (T.D.); (J.T.P.)
| | - Travis T. Denton
- Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA 99164, USA
- Steve Gleason Institute for Neuroscience, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA 99164, USA
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7
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Zhu L, Chang X, Zhang S, Bai X, Finko AV, Xu X, Bian J, Liu X, Huang H. Enhancing the affinity of novel GLS1 allosteric inhibitors by targeting key residue Lys320. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:1393-1414. [PMID: 37610850 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0114] [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: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: A series of novel GLS1 irreversible allosteric inhibitors targeting Lys320 might have robust enzyme inhibitory activity and potent antitumor activity. Materials & methods: Novel GLS1 allosteric inhibitors targeting Lys320 were synthesized and their anticancer activity was assessed. Moreover, GLS1 protein was used as a model system to analyze the reactivity of these electrophilic groups in GLS1 irreversible allosteric inhibitors with other amino acids, including tyrosine, histidine, serine and threonine, using biochemical and biophysical assays. Results: AC16 exhibited robust GLS1 inhibitory activity, antiproliferative effect in vitro, good plasma stability and potential covalent addition with GLS1 K320. Conclusion: This study opens a novel avenue for the design of robust irreversible GLS1 inhibitors targeting the allosteric site K320.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhu
- Center of Drug Screening & Evaluation, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, PR China
| | - Xiujin Chang
- Center of Drug Screening & Evaluation, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, PR China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Shengpeng Zhang
- Center of Drug Screening & Evaluation, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, PR China
| | - Xiumei Bai
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Alexander V Finko
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Xi Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Jinlei Bian
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Xiaoping Liu
- Center of Drug Screening & Evaluation, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, PR China
| | - Huidan Huang
- Center of Drug Screening & Evaluation, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, PR China
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8
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Feng S, Aplin C, Nguyen TTT, Milano SK, Cerione RA. Filament formation drives catalysis by glutaminase enzymes important in cancer progression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.16.528860. [PMID: 36824706 PMCID: PMC9949068 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.16.528860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The glutaminase enzymes GAC and GLS2 catalyze the hydrolysis of glutamine to glutamate, satisfying the 'glutamine addiction' of cancer cells. They are the targets of anti-cancer drugs; however, their mechanisms of activation and catalytic activity have been unclear. Here we demonstrate that the ability of GAC and GLS2 to form filaments is directly coupled to their catalytic activity and present their cryo-EM structures which provide an unprecedented view of the conformational states essential for catalysis. Filament formation guides an 'activation loop' to assume a specific conformation that works together with a 'lid' to close over the active site and position glutamine for nucleophilic attack by an essential serine. Our findings highlight how ankyrin repeats on GLS2 regulate enzymatic activity, while allosteric activators stabilize, and clinically relevant inhibitors block, filament formation that enables glutaminases to catalyze glutaminolysis and support cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Feng
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University,
Ithaca, New York, 14853
| | - Cody Aplin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University,
Ithaca, New York, 14853
| | - Thuy-Tien T. Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University,
Ithaca, New York, 14853
| | - Shawn K. Milano
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University,
Ithaca, New York, 14853
| | - Richard A. Cerione
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University,
Ithaca, New York, 14853
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New
York, 14853
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9
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Di Giorgio E, Benetti R, Kerschbamer E, Xodo L, Brancolini C. Super-enhancer landscape rewiring in cancer: The epigenetic control at distal sites. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 380:97-148. [PMID: 37657861 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Super-enhancers evolve as elements at the top of the hierarchical control of gene expression. They are important end-gatherers of signaling pathways that control stemness, differentiation or adaptive responses. Many epigenetic regulations focus on these regions, and not surprisingly, during the process of tumorigenesis, various alterations can account for their dysfunction. Super-enhancers are emerging as key drivers of the aberrant gene expression landscape that sustain the aggressiveness of cancer cells. In this review, we will describe and discuss about the structure of super-enhancers, their epigenetic regulation, and the major changes affecting their functionality in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eros Di Giorgio
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Roberta Benetti
- Laboratory of Epigenomics, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Emanuela Kerschbamer
- Laboratory of Epigenomics, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Luigi Xodo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Claudio Brancolini
- Laboratory of Epigenomics, Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy.
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10
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Meanwell NA. The pyridazine heterocycle in molecular recognition and drug discovery. Med Chem Res 2023; 32:1-69. [PMID: 37362319 PMCID: PMC10015555 DOI: 10.1007/s00044-023-03035-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
The pyridazine ring is endowed with unique physicochemical properties, characterized by weak basicity, a high dipole moment that subtends π-π stacking interactions and robust, dual hydrogen-bonding capacity that can be of importance in drug-target interactions. These properties contribute to unique applications in molecular recognition while the inherent polarity, low cytochrome P450 inhibitory effects and potential to reduce interaction of a molecule with the cardiac hERG potassium channel add additional value in drug discovery and development. The recent approvals of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonist relugolix (24) and the allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor deucravacitinib (25) represent the first examples of FDA-approved drugs that incorporate a pyridazine ring. In this review, the properties of the pyridazine ring are summarized in comparison to the other azines and its potential in drug discovery is illustrated through vignettes that explore applications that take advantage of the inherent physicochemical properties as an approach to solving challenges associated with candidate optimization. Graphical Abstract
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11
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Skaist Mehlman T, Biel JT, Azeem SM, Nelson ER, Hossain S, Dunnett L, Paterson NG, Douangamath A, Talon R, Axford D, Orins H, von Delft F, Keedy DA. Room-temperature crystallography reveals altered binding of small-molecule fragments to PTP1B. eLife 2023; 12:84632. [PMID: 36881464 PMCID: PMC9991056 DOI: 10.7554/elife.84632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Much of our current understanding of how small-molecule ligands interact with proteins stems from X-ray crystal structures determined at cryogenic (cryo) temperature. For proteins alone, room-temperature (RT) crystallography can reveal previously hidden, biologically relevant alternate conformations. However, less is understood about how RT crystallography may impact the conformational landscapes of protein-ligand complexes. Previously, we showed that small-molecule fragments cluster in putative allosteric sites using a cryo crystallographic screen of the therapeutic target PTP1B (Keedy et al., 2018). Here, we have performed two RT crystallographic screens of PTP1B using many of the same fragments, representing the largest RT crystallographic screens of a diverse library of ligands to date, and enabling a direct interrogation of the effect of data collection temperature on protein-ligand interactions. We show that at RT, fewer ligands bind, and often more weakly - but with a variety of temperature-dependent differences, including unique binding poses, changes in solvation, new binding sites, and distinct protein allosteric conformational responses. Overall, this work suggests that the vast body of existing cryo-temperature protein-ligand structures may provide an incomplete picture, and highlights the potential of RT crystallography to help complete this picture by revealing distinct conformational modes of protein-ligand systems. Our results may inspire future use of RT crystallography to interrogate the roles of protein-ligand conformational ensembles in biological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Skaist Mehlman
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research CenterNew YorkUnited States
- PhD Program in Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Justin T Biel
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Syeda Maryam Azeem
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | | | - Sakib Hossain
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Louise Dunnett
- Diamond Light SourceDidcotUnited Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Alice Douangamath
- Diamond Light SourceDidcotUnited Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | - Helen Orins
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Frank von Delft
- Diamond Light SourceDidcotUnited Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of JohannesburgJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Daniel A Keedy
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research CenterNew YorkUnited States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New YorkNew YorkUnited States
- PhD Programs in Biochemistry, Biology, and Chemistry, CUNY Graduate CenterNew YorkUnited States
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12
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Nguyen TTT, Katt WP, Cerione RA. Alone and together: current approaches to targeting glutaminase enzymes as part of anti-cancer therapies. FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2023; 4:FDD79. [PMID: 37009252 PMCID: PMC10051075 DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a major hallmark of malignant transformation in cancer, and part of the so-called Warburg effect, in which the upregulation of glutamine catabolism plays a major role. The glutaminase enzymes convert glutamine to glutamate, which initiates this pathway. Inhibition of different forms of glutaminase (KGA, GAC, or LGA) demonstrated potential as an emerging anti-cancer therapeutic strategy. The regulation of these enzymes, and the molecular basis for their inhibition, have been the focus of much recent research. This review will explore the recent progress in understanding the molecular basis for activation and inhibition of different forms of glutaminase, as well as the recent focus on combination therapies of glutaminase inhibitors with other anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy-Tien T Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - William P Katt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Richard A Cerione
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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13
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Costa RK, Brancaglion GA, Pinheiro MP, Meira DA, da Silva BN, de V. Negrao CZ, de A. Gonçalves K, Rodrigues CT, Ambrósio AL, Guido RV, Pastre JC, Dias SM. Discovery of aminothiazole derivatives as a chemical scaffold for glutaminase inhibition. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2023.100842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
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14
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Sharma S, Ebrahim A, Keedy DA. Room-temperature serial synchrotron crystallography of the human phosphatase PTP1B. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2023; 79:23-30. [PMID: 36598353 PMCID: PMC9813971 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x22011645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Room-temperature X-ray crystallography provides unique insights into protein conformational heterogeneity, but obtaining sufficiently large protein crystals is a common hurdle. Serial synchrotron crystallography (SSX) helps to address this hurdle by allowing the use of many medium- to small-sized crystals. Here, a recently introduced serial sample-support chip system has been used to obtain the first SSX structure of a human phosphatase, specifically protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) in the unliganded (apo) state. In previous apo room-temperature structures, the active site and allosteric sites adopted alternate conformations, including open and closed conformations of the active-site WPD loop and of a distal allosteric site. By contrast, in our SSX structure the active site is best fitted with a single conformation, but the distal allosteric site is best fitted with alternate conformations. This observation argues for additional nuance in interpreting the nature of allosteric coupling in this protein. Overall, our results illustrate the promise of serial methods for room-temperature crystallography, as well as future avant-garde crystallography experiments, for PTP1B and other proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Sharma
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
- PhD Program in Biology, CUNY Graduate Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ali Ebrahim
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Daniel A. Keedy
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
- PhD Programs in Biochemistry, Biology and Chemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
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15
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Cooper AJL, Dorai T, Pinto JT, Denton TT. α-Ketoglutaramate-A key metabolite contributing to glutamine addiction in cancer cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1035335. [PMID: 36404951 PMCID: PMC9671947 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1035335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur J. L. Cooper
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Thambi Dorai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
- Department of Urology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - John T. Pinto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Travis T. Denton
- Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Steve Gleason Institute for Neuroscience, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
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16
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Milano SK, Szebenyi MD, Cerione ARA. Serial Room Temperature Crystal Loading, Data Collection, and Data Processing of Human Glutaminase C in Complex with Allosteric Inhibitors. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4509. [PMID: 36248609 PMCID: PMC9516223 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4509] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells often overexpress glutaminase enzymes, in particular glutaminase C (GAC). GAC resides in the mitochondria and catalyzes the hydrolysis of glutamine to glutamate. High levels of GAC have been observed in aggressive cancers and the inhibition of its enzymatic activity has been shown to reduce their growth and survival. Numerous GAC inhibitors have been reported, the most heavily investigated being a class of compounds derived from the small molecule BPTES (bis-2-(5-phenylacetamido-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)ethyl sulfide). X-ray structure determination under cryo-cooled conditions showed that the binding contacts for the different inhibitors were largely conserved despite their varying potencies. However, using the emerging technique serial room temperature crystallography, we were able to observe clear differences between the binding conformations of inhibitors. Here, we describe a step-by-step protocol for crystal handling, data collection, and data processing of GAC in complex with allosteric inhibitors using serial room temperature crystallography. Graphical abstract: Figure 1. Workflow for serial room temperature crystallography. Diagram showing the processing and scaling routine for crystals analyzed using serial room temperature crystallography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn K. Milano
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
,
*For correspondence:
;
| | - Marian D. Szebenyi
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS), Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - And Richard A. Cerione
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
,
Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
,
*For correspondence:
;
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17
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Schneps CM, Ganguly A, Crane BR. Room-temperature serial synchrotron crystallography of Drosophila cryptochrome. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2022; 78:975-985. [PMID: 35916222 PMCID: PMC9344480 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798322007008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Fixed-target serial crystallography allows the high-throughput collection of diffraction data from small crystals at room temperature. This methodology is particularly useful for difficult samples that have sensitivity to radiation damage or intolerance to cryoprotection measures; fixed-target methods also have the added benefit of low sample consumption. Here, this method is applied to the structure determination of the circadian photoreceptor cryptochrome (CRY), previous structures of which have been determined at cryogenic temperature. In determining the structure, several data-filtering strategies were tested for combining observations from the hundreds of crystals that contributed to the final data set. Removing data sets based on the average correlation coefficient among equivalent reflection intensities between a given data set and all others was most effective at improving the data quality and maintaining overall completeness. CRYs are light sensors that undergo conformational photoactivation. Comparisons between the cryogenic and room-temperature CRY structures reveal regions of enhanced mobility at room temperature in loops that have functional importance within the CRY family of proteins. The B factors of the room-temperature structure correlate well with those predicted from molecular-dynamics simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor M. Schneps
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Abir Ganguly
- Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Brian R. Crane
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
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