Targeting the KRAS oncogene: Synthesis, physicochemical and biological evaluation of novel G-Quadruplex DNA binders

The oncogene KRAS is involved in the pathogenesis of many tumors such as pancreatic, lung and colorectal cancers, thereby representing a relevant target for the treatment of these diseases. The KRAS P1 promoter contains a nuclease hypersensitive, guanine-rich sequence able to fold into a G-quadruplex motif (G4). The stabilization of this G4 structure by small molecules is emerging as a feasible approach to downregulate KRAS expression. Here, a set of novel stabilizing molecules was identified through a virtual screening campaign on the NMR structure of the 22-mer KRAS G4. The most promising hits were then submitted to structure-activity relationships studies which allowed improving their binding affinity and selectivity over double helix DNA and different G4 topologies. The best derivative (19) underwent fluorescence titration experiments and further computational studies to disclose its binding mechanism to KRAS G4. Finally, biological assays showed that this compound is capable to reduce the viability of colorectal cancer cells in which mutated KRAS acts as a driver oncogene. Thus, 19 might represent the prototype of a new class of drugs for the treatment of tumors that, expressing mutated forms of KRAS, are refractory to current therapeutic regimens.

Probing inclusion complexes of cyclodextrins with amino acids by physicochemical approach

Formations of host-guest inclusion complexes of two natural amino acids, viz., l-Leucine and l-Isoleucine as guests with α and β-cyclodextrins have been investigated which include diverse applications in modern science such as controlled delivery in the field of pharmaceuticals, food processing etc. Surface tension and conductivity studies establish the formation of inclusion complexes with 1:1 stoichiometry. The interactions of cyclodextrins with amino acids have been supported by density, viscosity, refractive index, hydration and solvation number measurements indicating higher degree of inclusion in case of α-cyclodextrin. l-Leucine interacts more with the hydrophobic cavity of cyclodextrin than its isomer. With the help of stability constant by NMR titration, hydrophobic effect, H-bonds and structural effects the formations of inclusion complexes have been explained.