1
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Vikal A, Maurya R, Patel BB, Sharma R, Patel P, Patil UK, Das Kurmi B. Protacs in cancer therapy: mechanisms, design, clinical trials, and future directions. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2025; 15:1801-1827. [PMID: 39614036 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01754-z] [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] [Accepted: 11/20/2024] [Indexed: 12/01/2024]
Abstract
Cancer develops as a result of changes in both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, which lead to the activation of oncogenes and the suppression of tumor suppressor genes. Despite advancements in cancer treatments, the primary approach still involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, typically providing a median survival of approximately five years for patients. Unfortunately, these therapeutic interventions often bring about substantial side effects and toxicities, significantly impacting the overall quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment. Therefore, urgent need of research required which comes up with effective treatment of cancer. This review explores the transformative role of Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) in cancer therapy. PROTACs, an innovative drug development strategy, utilize the cell's protein degradation machinery to selectively eliminate disease-causing proteins. The review covers the historical background, mechanism of action, design, and structure of PROTACs, emphasizing their precision in targeting oncogenic proteins. The discussion extends to the challenges, nanotechnology applications, and ongoing clinical trials, showcasing promising results and clinical progress. The review concludes with insights into patents, future directions, and the potential impact of PROTACs in addressing dysregulated protein expression across various diseases. Overall, it provides a concise yet comprehensive overview for researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals involved in developing targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Vikal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, GT Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Rashmi Maurya
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, GT Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Brij Bihari Patel
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Excellence in Pulmonary Medicines, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College, Jabalpur, 482003, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Rajeev Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Amity University, Gwalior, 474005, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Preeti Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, GT Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Umesh K Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Hari Singh Gour University, Sagar, 470003, India
| | - Balak Das Kurmi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, GT Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India.
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2
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Sun C, Liu S, Lau JW, Yang H, Chen Y, Xing B. Enzyme-Activated Orthogonal Proteolysis Chimeras for Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Immunomodulation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2025; 64:e202423057. [PMID: 39932237 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202423057] [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: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2025]
Abstract
Precise modulation of dynamic and complex tumor microenvironment (TME) to disrupt tumorigenesis and reshape intratumoral immune infiltration has emerged as promising approaches for enhanced cancer therapy. Among recent innovations, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) represent a burgeoning chemical knockdown technology capable of degrading oncogenic protein homeostasis and inducing dynamic alternations within carcinoma settings, offering potential for antitumor manipulation. However, achieving selectivity in PROTACs that respond to disease environmental stimulation and precisely perturb on-target proteins remains challenging. The multi-step synthesis and limited permeability, attributed to high-molecular-weight and heterobifunctional structures, further hinder their in vivo efficacy. Herein, we present a unique TME-responsive enzyme-activated clickable PROTACs, which features a short peptide-tagged pomalidomide derivative to undergo tumor-specific cleavage by cathepsin protease to induce orthogonal crosslinking of the exposed cysteine with 2-cyanobenzothiazole-labeled epigenetic protein-ligand JQ1, facilitating in situ degrader formation within tumor regions only. Systematic protein profiling and proteomic analysis revealed that such TME-specific clickable-PROTACs not only selectively eliminate epigenetic proteins without tedious pre-synthesis to bridge disparate small-molecule bi-warhead fragments, but also demonstrated superior tumor penetration compared to conventional high-molecular-weight PROTACs. Importantly, these clickable-PROTACs efficiently downregulated immune checkpoint programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) both in vitro and in vivo, remodeling TME for enhanced therapeutics, especially in anti-tumoral immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Sun
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Songhan Liu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Jun Wei Lau
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Hanyu Yang
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Yun Chen
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
| | - Bengang Xing
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 11 Yuk Choi Rd, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637371, Singapore
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3
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Zhu B, Wu Z, Shou Y, Zhao K, Lu Q, Qin JJ, Guo H. Harnessing the Power of Natural Products for Targeted Protein Degradation. Med Res Rev 2025. [PMID: 40304621 DOI: 10.1002/med.22113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2025] [Revised: 03/27/2025] [Accepted: 04/02/2025] [Indexed: 05/02/2025]
Abstract
Natural products have garnered significant attention due to their complex chemical structures and remarkable pharmacological activities. With inherent recognition capabilities for protein surfaces, natural products serve as ideal candidates for designing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs). The utilization of natural products in PROTAC development offers distinct advantages, including their rich chemical diversity, multitarget activities, and sustainable sourcing. This comprehensive review explores the vast potential of harnessing natural products in PROTAC research. Moreover, the review discusses the application of natural degradant technology, which involves utilizing natural product-based compounds to selectively degrade disease-causing proteins, as well as the implementation of computer-aided drug design (CADD) technology in identifying suitable targets for degradation within the realm of natural products. By harnessing the power of natural products and leveraging computational tools, PROTACs derived from natural products have the potential to revolutionize drug discovery and provide innovative therapeutic interventions for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhu
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical BioResource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Zheng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation & College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yiwen Shou
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation & College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Kaili Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation & College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qinpei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation & College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- Center for Innovative Drug Research, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hongwei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation & College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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4
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de Souza MM, Gini ALR, Moura JA, Scarim CB, Chin CM, dos Santos JL. Prodrug Approach as a Strategy to Enhance Drug Permeability. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2025; 18:297. [PMID: 40143076 PMCID: PMC11946379 DOI: 10.3390/ph18030297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2025] [Revised: 02/12/2025] [Accepted: 02/16/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025] Open
Abstract
Absorption and permeability are critical physicochemical parameters that must be balanced to achieve optimal drug uptake. These key factors are closely linked to the maximum absorbable dose required to provide appropriate plasma levels of drugs. Among the various strategies employed to enhance drug solubility and permeability, prodrug design stands out as a highly effective and versatile approach for improving physicochemical properties and enabling the optimization of biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic parameters while mitigating adverse effects. Prodrugs are compounds with reduced or no activity that, through bio-reversible chemical or enzymatic processes, release an active parental drug. The application of this technology has led to significant advancements in drug optimization during the design phase, and it offers broad potential for further development. Notably, approximately 13% of the drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2012 and 2022 were prodrugs. In this review article, we will explore the application of prodrug strategies to enhance permeability, describing examples of market drugs. We also describe the use of the prodrug approach to optimize PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) permeability by using conjugation technologies. We will highlight some new technologies in prodrugs to enrich permeability properties, contributing to developing new effective and safe prodrugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus Mello de Souza
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (M.M.d.S.); (A.L.R.G.); (C.B.S.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Ana Luísa Rodriguez Gini
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (M.M.d.S.); (A.L.R.G.); (C.B.S.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Jhonnathan Alves Moura
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Cauê Benito Scarim
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (M.M.d.S.); (A.L.R.G.); (C.B.S.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Chung Man Chin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (M.M.d.S.); (A.L.R.G.); (C.B.S.); (C.M.C.)
- Union of the Colleges of the Great Lakes (UNILAGO), School of Medicine, Advanced Research Center in Medicine (CEPAM), Sao Jose do Rio Preto 15030-070, SP, Brazil
| | - Jean Leandro dos Santos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (M.M.d.S.); (A.L.R.G.); (C.B.S.); (C.M.C.)
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-900, SP, Brazil;
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Li Y, Han S, Zhao Y, Yan J, Luo K, Li F, He B, Sun Y, Li F, Liang Y. A Redox-Triggered Polymeric Nanoparticle for Disrupting Redox Homeostasis and Enhanced Ferroptosis. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2025; 21:e2404299. [PMID: 39663694 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404299] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 11/17/2024] [Indexed: 12/13/2024]
Abstract
Cancer cells possess an efficient redox system, enabling them to withstand oxidative damage induced by treatments, especially in hypoxia areas and ferroptosis can disrupt redox homeostasis in cancer cell. Herein, GSH-sensitive nanoparticles are constructed that induce ferroptosis by long-lasting GSH depletion and enhanced PDT. Carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitor, protoporphyrin IX (Por) complexed with Fe and epirubicin (EPI) are grafted to hyaluronic acid (HA) via disulfide bonds to obtain HSPFE and loaded xCT inhibitor SAS for fabricating SAS@HSPFE which is actively targeted to deep hypoxic tumor cells, and explosively releasing EPI, Por-Fe complex and SAS due to at high GSH concentration. Specifically, SAS inhibited the GSH biosynthesis, and the generation of ROS by Por and the involvement of Fe2+ in the Fenton reaction jointly facilitates oxidative stress. Besides, Fe2+ reacted with excess H2O2 to produce O2, which continuously fuels PDT. GPX4 and SLC7A11 related to antioxidant defense are down-regulated, while ACSL4 and TFRC promoting lipid peroxidation and ROS accumulation are up-regulated, which enhanced ferroptosis by amplifying oxidative stress and suppressing antioxidant defense. SAS@HSPFE NPs revealed highly efficient antitumor effect in vivo study. This study provides a novel approach to cancer treatment by targeting redox imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Shangcong Han
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Recuperation Medicine, Qingdao Special Service Sanatorium of PLA Navy, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jianqin Yan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Fashun Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
- Department of Oral Implantology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
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Zhan J, Li X, Feng Z, Liu Z, Feng Z, Zhu JJ, Zhang J. MicroRNA-Triggered Programmable DNA-Encoded Pre-PROTACs for Cell-Selective and Controlled Protein Degradation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2025; 64:e202415323. [PMID: 39381917 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202415323] [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: 08/15/2024] [Revised: 09/26/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have accelerated drug development; however, some challenges still exist owing to their lack of tumor selectivity and on-demand protein degradation. Here, we developed a miRNA-initiated assembled pre-PROTAC (miRiaTAC) platform that enables the on-demand activation and termination of target degradation in a cell type-specific manner. Using miRNA-21 as a model, we engineered DNA hairpins labeled with JQ-1 and pomalidomide and facilitated the modular assembly of DNA-encoded pre-PROTACs through a hybridization chain reaction. This configuration promoted the selective polyubiquitination and degradation of BRD4 upon miR-21 initiation, highlighting significant tumor selectivity and minimal systemic toxicity. Furthermore, the platform incorporates photolabile groups, enabling the precise optical control of pre-PROTACs during DNA assembly/disassembly, mitigating the risk of excessive protein degradation. Additionally, by introducing a secondary ligand targeting CDK6, these pre-PROTACs were used as a modular scaffold for the programmable assembly of active miRiaTACs containing two different warheads in exact stoichiometry, enabling orthogonal multitarget degradation. The integration of near-infrared light-mediated photodynamic therapy through an upconversion nanosystem further enhanced the efficacy of the platform with potent in vivo anticancer activity. We anticipate that miRiaTAC represents a significant intersection between dynamic DNA nanotechnology and PROTAC, potentially expanding the versatility of PROTAC toolkit for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, 130022, China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhiyuan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
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7
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Xu W, Yi S, Liu J, Jiang Y, Huang J. Nitrile-aminothiol bioorthogonal near-infrared fluorogenic probes for ultrasensitive in vivo imaging. Nat Commun 2025; 16:8. [PMID: 39747031 PMCID: PMC11695607 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55452-y] [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: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Bioorthogonal chemistry-mediated self-assembly holds great promise for dynamic molecular imaging in living organisms. However, existing approaches are limited to nanoaggregates with 'always-on' signals, suffering from high signal-to-background ratio (SBR) and compromised detection sensitivity. Herein we report a nitrile-aminothiol (NAT) bioorthogonal fluorogenic probe (CyNAP-SS-FK) for ultrasensitive diagnosis of orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma. This probe comprises a nitrile-substituted hemicyanine scaffold with a cysteine tail dually locked with biomarker-responsive moieties. Upon dual cleavage by tumor-specific cathepsin B and biothiols, the 1,2-aminothiol residue is exposed and spontaneously reacts with nitrile group for in situ intramolecular macrocyclization, enabling near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) turn-on as well as self-assembly. In living male mice, such 'cleavage-click-assembly' regimen allows for real-time and ultrasensitive detection of small cancerous lesions (~2 mm in diameter) with improved SBR (~5) and extended detection window (~36 h), outperforming conventional clinical assays. This study not only presents NAT click reaction-based fluorogenic probes but also highlights a generic dual-locked design of these probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Anti-Infective Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujuan Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Anti-Infective Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Liu
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yuyan Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jiaguo Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Anti-Infective Drug Discovery and Development, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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8
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Yim J, Park J, Kim G, Lee HH, Chung JS, Jo A, Koh M, Park J. Conditional PROTAC: Recent Strategies for Modulating Targeted Protein Degradation. ChemMedChem 2024; 19:e202400326. [PMID: 38993102 PMCID: PMC11581424 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202400326] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have emerged as a promising technology for inducing targeted protein degradation by leveraging the intrinsic ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). While the potential druggability of PROTACs toward undruggable proteins has accelerated their rapid development and the wide-range of applications across diverse disease contexts, off-tissue effects and side-effects of PROTACs have recently received attentions to improve their efficacy. To address these issues, spatial or temporal target protein degradation by PROTACs has been spotlighted. In this review, we explore chemical strategies for modulating protein degradation in a cell type-specific (spatio-) and time-specific (temporal-) manner, thereby offering insights for expanding PROTAC applications to overcome the current limitations of target protein degradation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhyeong Yim
- Department of ChemistryKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
- Multidimensional Genomics Research CenterKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
| | - Junyoung Park
- Department of ChemistryKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
- Institute for Molecular Science and Fusion TechnologyKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
| | - Gabin Kim
- Department of Chemistry and ChemistryInstitute for Functional MaterialsPusan National UniversityBusan46241Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Ho Lee
- Department of UrologyUrological Cancer CenterResearch Institute and Hospital of National Cancer CenterGoyang10408Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Soo Chung
- Department of UrologyUrological Cancer CenterResearch Institute and Hospital of National Cancer CenterGoyang10408Republic of Korea
| | - Ala Jo
- Center for NanomedicineInstitute for Basic ScienceSeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Minseob Koh
- Department of Chemistry and ChemistryInstitute for Functional MaterialsPusan National UniversityBusan46241Republic of Korea
| | - Jongmin Park
- Department of ChemistryKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
- Multidimensional Genomics Research CenterKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
- Institute for Molecular Science and Fusion TechnologyKangwon National UniversityChuncheon24341Republic of Korea
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Dong Y, Ma T, Xu T, Feng Z, Li Y, Song L, Yao X, Ashby CR, Hao GF. Characteristic roadmap of linker governs the rational design of PROTACs. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:4266-4295. [PMID: 39525578 PMCID: PMC11544172 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology represents a groundbreaking development in drug discovery, leveraging the ubiquitin‒proteasome system to specifically degrade proteins responsible for the disease. PROTAC is characterized by its unique heterobifunctional structure, which comprises two functional domains connected by a linker. The linker plays a pivotal role in determining PROTAC's biodegradative efficacy. Advanced and rationally designed functional linkers for PROTAC are under development. Nonetheless, the correlation between linker characteristics and PROTAC efficacy remains under-investigated. Consequently, this study will present a multidisciplinary analysis of PROTAC linkers and their impact on efficacy, thereby guiding the rational design of linkers. We will primarily discuss the structural types and characteristics of PROTAC linkers, and the optimization strategies used for their rational design. Furthermore, we will discuss how factors like linker length, group type, flexibility, and linkage site affect the biodegradation efficiency of PROTACs. We believe that this work will contribute towards the advancement of rational linker design in the PROTAC research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Dong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Tingting Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Ting Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Zhangyan Feng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yonggui Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Lingling Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Macau Polytechnic University, Macau 999078, China
| | - Charles R. Ashby
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ge-Fei Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
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10
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Song C, Jiao Z, Hou Z, Xing Y, Sha X, Wang Y, Chen J, Liu S, Li Z, Yin F. Versatile Split-and-Mix Liposome PROTAC Platform for Efficient Degradation of Target Protein In Vivo. JACS AU 2024; 4:2915-2924. [PMID: 39211615 PMCID: PMC11350581 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PROTAC (Proteolysis TArgeting Chimeras) is a promising therapeutic approach for targeted protein degradation that recruits an E3 ubiquitin ligase to a specific protein of interest (POI), leading to its degradation by the proteasome. Recently, we developed a novel split-and-mix PROTAC system based on liposome self-assembly (LipoSM-PROTAC) which could achieve target protein degradation at comparable concentrations comparable to small molecules. In this study, we expanded protein targets based on the LipoSM-PROTAC platform and further examined its therapeutic effects in vivo. Notably, this platform could efficiently degrade the protein level of MEK1/2 in A375 cells or Alk in NCI-H2228 cells and display obvious tumor inhibition (60-70% inhibition rate) with negligible toxicity. This study further proved the LipoSM-PROTAC's application potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunli Song
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zijun Jiao
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
- Frontiers
Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan 610212, China
| | - Zhanfeng Hou
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yun Xing
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xinrui Sha
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
| | - Yuechen Wang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiaxin Chen
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
| | - Susheng Liu
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
| | - Zigang Li
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
| | - Feng Yin
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology
and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen
Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Pingshan
Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen
Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118, China
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11
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Petriccone M, Laurent R, Caminade AM, Sebastián RM. Diverse Approaches for the Difunctionalization of PPH Dendrimers, Precise Versus Stochastic: How Does this Influence Catalytic Performance? ACS Macro Lett 2024; 13:853-858. [PMID: 38917088 PMCID: PMC11256758 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Random difunctionalization of dendrimer surfaces, frequently employed in biological applications, provides the advantage of dual functional groups through a synthetic pathway that is simpler compared to precise difunctionalization. However, is the random difunctionalization as efficient as the precise difunctionalization on the surface of dendrimers? This question is unanswered to date because most dendrimer families face challenges in achieving precise functionalization. Polyphosphorhydrazone (PPH) dendrimers present a unique opportunity to obtain precise difunctionalization at each terminal branching point. The work concerning catalysis we report with PPH dendrimers, whether precisely or randomly functionalized, addresses this question. Across PPH dendrimers, from generations 1 to 3, precise functionalization consistently outperforms random functionalization in terms of efficiency. This finding introduces a novel concept in dendrimer science, emphasizing the superiority of precise over random functionalization methodologies. Introducing a groundbreaking concept in the field of dendrimers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Petriccone
- Department
of Chemistry, Science Faculty, Universitat
Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus de Bellaterra, s/n, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro
de Innovación en Química Avanzada (ORFEO−CINQA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratoire
de Chimie de Coordination, CNRS, 205 Route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse, CEDEX 4, France
- LCC−CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Régis Laurent
- Laboratoire
de Chimie de Coordination, CNRS, 205 Route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse, CEDEX 4, France
- LCC−CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Anne-Marie Caminade
- Laboratoire
de Chimie de Coordination, CNRS, 205 Route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse, CEDEX 4, France
- LCC−CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Rosa María Sebastián
- Department
of Chemistry, Science Faculty, Universitat
Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus de Bellaterra, s/n, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro
de Innovación en Química Avanzada (ORFEO−CINQA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Li F, Yan J, Wei C, Zhao Y, Tang X, Xu L, He B, Sun Y, Chang J, Liang Y. "Cicada Out of the Shell" Deep Penetration and Blockage of the HSP90 Pathway by ROS-Responsive Supramolecular Gels to Augment Trimodal Synergistic Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401214. [PMID: 38647420 PMCID: PMC11220648 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401214] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Deep penetration and downregulation of heat shock protein (HSP) expression in multimodal synergistic therapy are promising approaches for curing cancer in clinical trials. However, free small-molecule drugs and most drug vehicles have a low delivery efficiency deep into the tumor owing to poor drug penetration and hypoxic conditions at the tumor site. In this study, the objective is to use reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive supramolecular gels co-loaded with the photosensitizer Zn(II) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid (ZnPCS4) and functionalized tetrahedral DNA (TGSAs) (G@P/TGSAs) to enhance deep tissue and cell penetration and block the HSP90 pathway for chemo- photodynamic therapy (PDT) - photothermal therapy (PTT) trimodal synergistic therapy. The (G@P/TGSAs) are injected in situ into the tumor to release ZnPCS4 and TGSAs under high ROS concentrations originating from both the tumor and PDT. TGSAs penetrate deeply into tumor tissues and augment photothermal therapy by inhibiting the HSP90 pathway. Proteomics show that HSP-related proteins and molecular chaperones are inhibited/activated, inhibiting the HSP90 pathway. Simultaneously, the TGSA-regulated apoptotic pathway is activated. In vivo study demonstrates efficient tumor penetration and excellent trimodal synergistic therapy (45% tumor growth inhibition).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fashun Li
- Department of PharmaceuticsSchool of PharmacyQingdao UniversityQingdao266073China
| | - Jianqin Yan
- Department of PharmaceuticsSchool of PharmacyQingdao UniversityQingdao266073China
| | - Chen Wei
- Department of PharmacyQingdao Women and Children's HospitalQingdao266034China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Recuperation MedicineQingdao Special Service Sanatorium of PLA NavyQingdao266071China
| | - Xiaowen Tang
- Department of Medicinal ChemistrySchool of PharmacyQingdao UniversityQingdao266073China
| | - Long Xu
- School of Materials Science and Chemical EngineeringNingbo UniversityNingbo315211China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for BiomaterialsSichuan UniversityChengdu610064China
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of PharmaceuticsSchool of PharmacyQingdao UniversityQingdao266073China
| | - Jing Chang
- College of Marine Life ScienceOcean University of ChinaQingdao266003China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of PharmaceuticsSchool of PharmacyQingdao UniversityQingdao266073China
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13
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Yang C, Tripathi R, Wang B. Click chemistry in the development of PROTACs. RSC Chem Biol 2024; 5:189-197. [PMID: 38456041 PMCID: PMC10915971 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00199g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimeras or PROTACs are hetero-bifunctional molecules designed to mediate the disposal of a target protein via recruitment of the ubiquitination-proteasome degradation machinery. Because of the chimeric nature of such molecules, their synthesis requires a key step of "assembling" whether in the lab or in situ. Furthermore, targeted PROTACs often are hetero-trifunctional and require a second "assembling" step. Click chemistry has the unique advantages of tethering two or more molecular entities of choice under near physiological conditions and therefore has been applied to the development of PROTACs in various ways. This review provides a succinct summary of this field with a critical analysis of various factors that need to be considered for optimal results. Specifically, we examine issues including applications of click chemistry in in situ assembly for improved delivery, conjugation with a targeting group for selectivity, rapid synthesis for linker optimization, and lysosomal degradation of extracellular and membrane-associated proteins. We also examine reaction kinetics issues whenever possible or warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ce Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia 30303 USA
| | - Ravi Tripathi
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia 30303 USA
| | - Binghe Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia 30303 USA
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14
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Li Y, Wei C, Yan J, Li F, Chen B, Sun Y, Luo K, He B, Liang Y. The application of nanoparticles based on ferroptosis in cancer therapy. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:413-435. [PMID: 38112639 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02308g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a new form of non-apoptotic programmed cell death. Due to its effectiveness in cancer treatment, there are increasing studies on the application of nanoparticles based on ferroptosis in cancer therapy. In this paper, we present a summary of the latest progress in nanoparticles based on ferroptosis for effective tumor therapy. We also describe the combined treatment of ferroptosis with other therapies, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy. This summary of drug delivery systems based on ferroptosis aims to provide a basis and inspire opinions for researchers concentrating on exploring this field. Finally, we present some prospects and challenges for the application of nanotherapies to clinical treatment by promoting ferroptosis in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Chen Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital, Qingdao 266034, China
| | - Jianqin Yan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Fashun Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Bohan Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Kui Luo
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
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15
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Song J, Hu M, Zhou J, Xie S, Li T, Li Y. Targeted protein degradation in drug development: Recent advances and future challenges. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115839. [PMID: 37778240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach with potential advantages over traditional occupancy-based inhibitors in terms of dosing, side effects and targeting "undruggable" proteins. Targeted degraders can theoretically bind any nook or cranny of targeted proteins to drive degradation. This offers convenience versus the small-molecule inhibitors that must function in a well-defined pocket. The degradation process depends mainly on two cell self-destruction mechanisms, namely the ubiquitin-proteasome system and the lysosomal degradation pathway. Various TPD strategies (e.g., proteolytic-targeting chimeras, molecular glues, lysosome-targeting chimeras, and autophagy-targeting chimeras) have been developed. These approaches hold great potential for targeting dysregulated proteins, potentially offering therapeutic benefits. In this article, we systematically review the mechanisms of various TPD strategies, potential applications to drug discovery, and recent advances. We also discuss the benefits and challenges associated with these TPD strategies, aiming to provide insight into the targeting of dysregulated proteins and facilitate their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Song
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Mingzheng Hu
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China; College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Songbo Xie
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China; School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255000, China
| | - Tianliang Li
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China.
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16
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Ouyang M, Feng Y, Chen H, Liu Y, Tan C, Tan Y. Recent Advances in Optically Controlled PROTAC. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1368. [PMID: 38135959 PMCID: PMC10740939 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10121368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology is a groundbreaking therapeutic approach with significant clinical potential for degrading disease-inducing proteins within targeted cells. However, challenges related to insufficient target selectivity raise concerns about PROTAC toxicity toward normal cells. To address this issue, researchers are modifying PROTACs using various approaches to enhance their target specificity. This review highlights innovative optically controlled PROTACs as anti-cancer therapies currently used in clinical practice and explores the challenges associated with their efficacy and safety. The development of optically controlled PROTACs holds the potential to significantly expand the clinical applicability of PROTAC-based technology within the realm of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzi Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ying Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yanping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
| | - Chunyan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ying Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; (M.O.); (Y.F.); (H.C.); (Y.L.); (C.T.)
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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17
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Pasieka A, Diamanti E, Uliassi E, Laura Bolognesi M. Click Chemistry and Targeted Degradation: A Winning Combination for Medicinal Chemists? ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202300422. [PMID: 37706617 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Click chemistry is universally recognized as a powerful strategy for the fast and precise assembly of diverse building blocks. Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) is a new therapeutic modality based on heterobifunctional small-molecule degraders that provides new opportunities to medicinal chemists dealing with undruggable targets and incurable diseases. Here, we highlight how very recently the TPD field and that of click chemistry have merged, opening up the possibility for fine-tuning the properties of a degrader, chemically assembled through a "click" synthesis. By reviewing concrete examples, we want to provide the reader with the insight that the application of click and bioorthogonal chemistry in the TDP field may be a winning combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pasieka
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eleonora Diamanti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Uliassi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Bolognesi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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18
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Yao R, Luo T, Wang M. Delivering on Cell-Selective Protein Degradation Using Chemically Tailored PROTACs. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300413. [PMID: 37496112 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
PROTACs (Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras) have emerged as a groundbreaking class of chemical tools that facilitate the degradation of target proteins by leveraging the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). However, the effective utilization of PROTACs in chemical biology studies and therapeutics encounters significant challenges when it comes to achieving cell-selective protein degradation and in vivo applications. This review article aims to shed light on recent advancements in the development of Pro-PROTACs, which exhibit controlled protein degradation capabilities in response to external stimuli or disease-related endogenous biochemical signals. The article delves into the specific chemical strategies employed to regulate the interaction between PROTACs and E3 ubiquitin ligases or target proteins. These strategies enable spatial and temporal control over the protein degradation potential of Pro-PROTACs. Furthermore, the review summarizes recent investigations regarding the delivery of PROTACs using biodegradable nanoparticles for in vivo applications and targeted protein degradation. Such delivery systems hold great promise for enabling efficient and selective protein degradation in vivo. Lastly, the article provides a perspective on the future design of multifunctional PROTACs and their intracellular delivery mechanisms, with a particular focus on achieving cell-selective protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
| | - Tianli Luo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100490, China
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