RESUMEN

Tropomyosin receptor kinases (Trks) are transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinases named TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC and encoded by the NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3 genes, respectively. These kinases have attracted significant attention and represent a promising therapeutic target for solid tumor treatment due to their vital role in cellular signaling pathways. First-generation TRK inhibitors, i.e., Larotrectinib sulfate and Entrectinib, received clinical approval in 2018 and 2019, respectively. However, the use of these inhibitors was significantly limited because of the development of resistance due to mutations. Fortunately, the second-generation Trk inhibitor Repotrectinib (TPX-0005) was approved by the FDA in November 2023, while Selitrectinib (Loxo-195) has provided an effective solution to this issue. Another macrocycle-based analog, along with many other TRK inhibitors, is currently in clinical trials. Two of the three marketed drugs for NTRK fusion cancers feature a pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidine nucleus, prompting medicinal chemists to develop numerous novel pyrazolopyrimidine-based molecules to enhance clinical applications. This article focuses on a comprehensive review of chronological synthetic developments and the structure-activity relationships (SAR) of pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine derivatives as Trk inhibitors. This article will also provide comprehensive knowledge and future directions to the researchers working in the field of medicinal chemistry by facilitating the structural modification of pyrazolo [1,5-a]pyrimidine derivatives to synthesize more effective novel chemotherapeutics as TRK inhibitors.

Asunto(s)

Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Pirazoles , Pirimidinas , Receptor trkA , Pirimidinas/química , Pirimidinas/farmacología , Pirimidinas/síntesis química , Humanos , Pirazoles/química , Pirazoles/farmacología , Pirazoles/síntesis química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/síntesis química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/uso terapéutico , Relación Estructura-Actividad , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkB/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkB/metabolismo , Receptor trkC/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkC/genética , Receptor trkC/metabolismo , Neoplasias/tratamiento farmacológico , Neoplasias/enzimología , Antineoplásicos/farmacología , Antineoplásicos/química , Antineoplásicos/síntesis química

RESUMEN

NTRK gene fusion leads to the activation of downstream signaling pathways, which is a oncogenic driver in various cancers. NTRK fusion-positive cancers can be treated with the first-generation TRK inhibitors, larotrectinib and entrectinib. Unfortunately, the patients eventually face the dilemma of no drugs available as the emergence of certain resistance mutations. The development of efficient and broad-spectrum second-generation TRK inhibitors is still of great significance. Here, we analyzed the binding modes of compounds 6, 10 with TRKA protein, respectively, a series of novel indazole TRK inhibitors were designed and synthesized using molecular hybridization strategy. Among them, the optimal compound B31 showed strong antiproliferative activities against Km-12, Ba/F3-TRKAG595R, and Ba/F3-TRKAG667C cell lines with IC50 values of 0.3, 4.7, and 9.9 nM, respectively. And the inhibitory effect against TRKAG667C (IC50 = 9.9 nM) was better than that of selitrectinib (IC50 = 113.1 nM). Further, compound B31 exhibited moderate kinase selectivity and excellent plasma stability (t1/2 > 480 min). In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in Sprague-Dawley rats showed that B31 had acceptable pharmacokinetic properties.

Asunto(s)

Antineoplásicos , Proliferación Celular , Descubrimiento de Drogas , Indazoles , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Receptor trkA , Indazoles/farmacología , Indazoles/química , Indazoles/síntesis química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/síntesis química , Humanos , Animales , Relación Estructura-Actividad , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Ratas , Antineoplásicos/farmacología , Antineoplásicos/química , Antineoplásicos/síntesis química , Estructura Molecular , Relación Dosis-Respuesta a Droga , Ensayos de Selección de Medicamentos Antitumorales , Línea Celular Tumoral , Masculino

RESUMEN

Nerve growth factor (NGF) has long been known as the main ovulation-inducing factor in induced ovulation species, however, recent studies suggested the NGF role also in those with spontaneous ovulation. The first aim of this study was to evaluate the presence and gene expression of NGF and its cognate receptors, high-affinity neurotrophic tyrosine kinase 1 receptor (NTRK1) and low-affinity p75 nerve growth factor receptor (p75NTR), in the ram genital tract. Moreover, the annual trend of NGF seminal plasma values was investigated to evaluate the possible relationship between the NGF production variations and the ram reproductive seasonality. The presence and expression of the NGF/receptors system was evaluated in the testis, epididymis, vas deferens ampullae, seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands through immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR (qPCR), respectively. Genital tract samples were collected from 5 adult rams, regularly slaughtered at a local abattoir. Semen was collected during the whole year weekly, from 5 different adult rams, reared in a breeding facility, with an artificial vagina. NGF seminal plasma values were assessed through the ELISA method. NGF, NTRK1 and p75NTR immunoreactivity was detected in all male organs examined. NGF-positive immunostaining was observed in the spermatozoa of the germinal epithelium, in the epididymis and the cells of the secretory epithelium of annexed glands, NTRK1 receptor showed a localization pattern like that of NGF, whereas p75NTR immunopositivity was localized in the nerve fibers and ganglia. NGF gene transcript was highest (p < 0.01) in the seminal vesicles and lowest (p < 0.01) in the testis than in the other tissues. NTRK1 gene transcript was highest (p < 0.01) in the seminal vesicles and lowest (p < 0.05) in all the other tissues examined. Gene expression of p75NTR was highest (p < 0.01) in the seminal vesicles and lowest (p < 0.01) in the testis and bulbourethral glands. NGF seminal plasma concentration was greater from January to May (p < 0.01) than in the other months. This study highlighted that the NGF system was expressed in the tissues of all the different genital tracts examined, confirming the role of NGF in ram reproduction. Sheep are short-day breeders, with an anestrus that corresponds to the highest seminal plasma NGF levels, thus suggesting the intriguing idea that this factor could participate in an inhibitory mechanism of male reproductive activity, activated during the female anestrus.

Asunto(s)

Genitales Masculinos , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Receptor trkA , Estaciones del Año , Semen , Animales , Masculino , Semen/química , Semen/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Genitales Masculinos/metabolismo , Genitales Masculinos/química , Ovinos/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/genética , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Receptor de Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/genética , Receptor de Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Regulación de la Expresión Génica/fisiología

RESUMEN

In a recent issue of The Journal of Pathology, Chen and colleagues established novel patient-derived ex vivo models of NTRK fusion-positive soft tissue sarcoma to characterize resistance mechanisms against targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Prolonged exposure to escalating concentrations of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, entrectinib, ultimately led to the occurrence of resistant clones that harbored an inactivating mutation in the NF2 gene, not previously described in this context, accompanied by increased PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling. Finally, an inhibitor screen identified, among others, MEK and mTOR inhibitors as potential combination agents. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Asunto(s)

Resistencia a Antineoplásicos , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Humanos , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos/genética , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/uso terapéutico , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Neurofibromina 2/genética , Proteínas de Fusión Oncogénica/genética , Benzamidas/uso terapéutico , Benzamidas/farmacología , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Transducción de Señal/genética , Indazoles/uso terapéutico , Indazoles/farmacología , Mutación , Sarcoma/genética , Sarcoma/tratamiento farmacológico , Sarcoma/patología , Antineoplásicos/uso terapéutico , Antineoplásicos/farmacología , Serina-Treonina Quinasas TOR/genética , Serina-Treonina Quinasas TOR/metabolismo

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) can ameliorate arrhythmias; however, the mechanisms underlying their antiarrhythmic effect remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypothesis that the SGLT2i empagliflozin (EMPA) ameliorates ventricular arrhythmias caused by myocardial infarction (MI) by inhibiting sympathetic remodeling. METHODS: Male nondiabetic Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into Sham ( n  = 10), MI ( n  = 13), low-EMPA (10 mg/kg/day; n  = 13), and high-EMPA (30 mg/kg/day; n  = 13) groups. Except for the Sham group, MI models were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. After 4 weeks, the hearts were removed. Echocardiography, electrical stimulation, hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson's staining, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and ELISA were performed. RESULTS: Except for left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT), EMPA treatment significantly ameliorated the left ventricular anterior wall thickness (LVAWT), interventricular septum thickness (IVST), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in MI rats; there was no statistical difference between the low-EMPA and high-EMPA groups. The threshold for ventricular fibrillation induction and myocardial fibrosis was significantly ameliorated in EMPA-treated rats, and there was no statistical difference between the high-EMPA and low-EMPA groups. EMPA decreased the expression of nerve growth factor (NGF), tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA), tyrosine hydroxylase, and growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43) in the left ventricular infarction margin myocardium of MI rats, especially in the high-EMPA group, with a statistically significant difference between the high-EMPA and low-EMPA groups. High-EMPA significantly decreased noradrenaline (NE) levels in the blood of MI rats; however, there was no statistical difference between the low-EMPA and MI groups. CONCLUSION: EMPA ameliorated the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in MI rats, which may be related to a reduction in sympathetic activity, inhibition of the NGF/TrkA pathway, inhibition of sympathetic remodeling, and improvement in cardiac function and cardiac structural remodeling.

Asunto(s)

Compuestos de Bencidrilo , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Glucósidos , Infarto del Miocardio , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Transducción de Señal , Inhibidores del Cotransportador de Sodio-Glucosa 2 , Sistema Nervioso Simpático , Remodelación Ventricular , Animales , Masculino , Compuestos de Bencidrilo/farmacología , Glucósidos/farmacología , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Infarto del Miocardio/fisiopatología , Infarto del Miocardio/tratamiento farmacológico , Infarto del Miocardio/complicaciones , Infarto del Miocardio/patología , Infarto del Miocardio/metabolismo , Sistema Nervioso Simpático/efectos de los fármacos , Sistema Nervioso Simpático/fisiopatología , Inhibidores del Cotransportador de Sodio-Glucosa 2/farmacología , Remodelación Ventricular/efectos de los fármacos , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Proteína GAP-43/metabolismo , Función Ventricular Izquierda/efectos de los fármacos , Arritmias Cardíacas/etiología , Arritmias Cardíacas/prevención & control , Arritmias Cardíacas/fisiopatología , Arritmias Cardíacas/tratamiento farmacológico , Ratas , Antiarrítmicos/farmacología , Conexina 43

RESUMEN

Chronic pain is a prevalent problem that plagues modern society, and better understanding its mechanisms is critical for developing effective therapeutics. Nerve growth factor (NGF) and its primary receptor, Tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA), are known to be potent mediators of chronic pain, but there is a lack of established methods for precisely perturbing the NGF/TrkA signaling pathway in the study of pain and nociception. Optobiological tools that leverage light-induced protein-protein interactions allow for precise spatial and temporal control of receptor signaling. Previously, our lab reported a blue light-activated version of TrkA generated using light-induced dimerization of the intracellular TrkA domain, opto-iTrkA. In this work, we show that opto-iTrkA activation is able to activate endogenous ERK and Akt signaling pathways and causes the retrograde transduction of phospho-ERK signals in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Opto-iTrkA activation also sensitizes the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel in cellular models, further corroborating the physiological relevance of the optobiological stimulus. Finally, we show that opto-iTrkA enables light-inducible potentiation of mechanical sensitization in mice. Light illumination enables nontraumatic and reversible (<2 days) sensitization of mechanical pain in mice transduced with opto-iTrkA, which provides a platform for dissecting TrkA pathways for nociception in vitro and in vivo.

Asunto(s)

Dolor Crónico , Ganglios Espinales , Luz , Receptor trkA , Animales , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Dolor Crónico/metabolismo , Ratones , Ganglios Espinales/metabolismo , Canales Catiónicos TRPV/metabolismo , Humanos , Transducción de Señal , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Masculino , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Neuronas/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Tropomyosin receptor kinases (Trks) are receptor tyrosine kinases activated by neurotrophic factors, called neurotrophins. Among them, TrkA interacts with the nerve growth factor (NGF), which leads to pain induction. mRNA-display screening was carried out to discover a hit compound 2, which inhibits protein-protein interactions between TrkA and NGF. Subsequent structure optimization improving phosphorylation inhibitory activity and serum stability was pursued using a unique process that took advantage of the peptide being synthesized by translation from mRNA. This gave peptide 19, which showed an analgesic effect in a rat incisional pain model. The peptides described here can serve as a new class of analgesics, and the structure optimization methods reported provide a strategy for discovering new peptide drugs.

Asunto(s)

Receptor trkA , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Animales , Ratas , Humanos , Relación Estructura-Actividad , Descubrimiento de Drogas , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/síntesis química , Analgésicos/farmacología , Analgésicos/química , Analgésicos/síntesis química , Péptidos Cíclicos/farmacología , Péptidos Cíclicos/química , Péptidos Cíclicos/síntesis química , Masculino , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Fosforilación , Dolor/tratamiento farmacológico , Ratas Sprague-Dawley

RESUMEN

HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) are difficult to treat and associated with poor prognosis. Despite showing initial response, HER2-positive breast cancers often acquire resistance to HER2-targeted therapies, and TNBC lack effective therapies. To overcome these clinical challenges, we evaluated the therapeutic utility of co-targeting TrkA and JAK2/STAT3 pathways in these breast cancer subtypes. Here, we report the novel combination of FDA-approved TrkA inhibitors (Entrectinib or Larotrectinib) and JAK2 inhibitors (Pacritinib or Ruxolitinib) synergistically inhibited in vitro growth of HER2-positive breast cancer cells and TNBC cells. The Entrectinib-Pacritinib combination inhibited the breast cancer stem cell subpopulation, reduced expression of stemness genes, SOX2 and MYC, and induced apoptosis. The Entrectinib-Pacritinib combination suppressed orthotopic growth of HER2-positive Trastuzumab-refractory breast cancer xenografts and basal patient-derived xenograft (PDXs), reduced tumoral SOX2 and MYC, and induced apoptosis in both mouse models. The Entrectinib-Pacritinib combination inhibited overall metastatic burden, and brain and bone metastases of intracardially inoculated TNBC cells without toxicity. Together, our results demonstrate for the first time that co-inhibition of TrkA and JAK2 synergistically suppresses breast cancer growth and metastasis, thereby providing preclinical evidence that supports future clinical evaluations.

Asunto(s)

Benzamidas , Janus Quinasa 2 , Pirimidinas , Receptor ErbB-2 , Receptor trkA , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas , Ensayos Antitumor por Modelo de Xenoinjerto , Humanos , Janus Quinasa 2/metabolismo , Janus Quinasa 2/antagonistas & inhibidores , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/tratamiento farmacológico , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/patología , Neoplasias de la Mama Triple Negativas/metabolismo , Benzamidas/farmacología , Animales , Femenino , Pirimidinas/farmacología , Receptor ErbB-2/metabolismo , Receptor ErbB-2/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor ErbB-2/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/genética , Ratones , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Indazoles/farmacología , Pirazoles/farmacología , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Protocolos de Quimioterapia Combinada Antineoplásica/farmacología , Apoptosis/efectos de los fármacos , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Ratones Desnudos , Sinergismo Farmacológico , Hidrocarburos Aromáticos con Puentes

RESUMEN

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological, immunophenotypic and molecular genetic characteristics, and differential diagnosis of NTRK-rearranged spindle cell neoplasms (NTRK-RSCNs) in the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: Two NTRK-RSCNs diagnosed at the Department of Pathology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China and one case diagnosed at Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou, China from 2019 to 2022 were collected. The clinical data, histopathology, immunophenotypes and prognosis were analyzed. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were used to detect NTRK gene rearrangements, while relevant literature was also reviewed and discussed. Results: Two patients were male and one was female, with the age of 17, 47 and 62 years, respectively. The tumors were located in the duodenum, ascending colon and descending colon, respectively. The tumors were protuberant masses with gray and rubbery sections. Their maximum diameter was 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 cm, respectively. Histologically, the tumors invaded mucosa, intrinsic muscle and serosal adipose tissue. Tumor cells consisted of spindle or oval shaped cells with monotonous morphology and arranged in bundles or stripes pattern. Spindle cells were mildly to moderately atypical, with slightly eosinophilic cytoplasm and inconspicuous nucleoli. Necrosis and mitotic figures were observed in one high-grade tumor. All tumors expressed CD34, S-100 and pan-TRK in varying degrees. FISH analysis showed that NTRK1 gene was break-apart in 1 case and NTRK2 gene break-apart in 2 cases. NGS technologies showed LMNA::NTRK1 fusion in one case, STRN::NTRK2 fusion in another case. All patients recovered well after the surgery without recurrence at the end of the follow-up. Conclusions: NTRK-RSCN is rarely diagnosed in the gastrointestinal tract and has significant variations in morphology. It overlaps with various other mesenchymal tumors which should be considered as differential diagnoses. Be familiar with the features of histological morphology in combination with immunophenotype and molecular genetic characteristics can not only help diagnose NTRK-RSCNs, but provide therapeutic targets for clinical treatment.

Asunto(s)

Neoplasias Gastrointestinales , Hibridación Fluorescente in Situ , Receptor trkA , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Neoplasias Gastrointestinales/genética , Neoplasias Gastrointestinales/patología , Adolescente , Reordenamiento Génico , Diagnóstico Diferencial , Secuenciación de Nucleótidos de Alto Rendimiento , Receptor trkB/genética , Receptor trkB/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Glutamate functions as the major excitatory neurotransmitter for primary sensory neurons and has a crucial role in sensitizing peripheral nociceptor terminals producing sensitization. Glutaminase (GLS) is the synthetic enzyme that converts glutamine to glutamate. GLS-immunoreactivity (-ir) and enzyme activity are elevated in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neuronal cell bodies during chronic peripheral inflammation, but the mechanism for this GLS elevation is yet to be fully characterized. It has been well established that, after nerve growth factor (NGF) binds to its high-affinity receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA), a retrograde signaling endosome is formed. This endosome contains the late endosomal marker Rab7GTPase and is retrogradely transported via axons to the cell soma located in the DRG. This complex is responsible for regulating the transcription of several critical nociceptive genes. Here, we show that this retrograde NGF signaling mediates the expression of GLS in DRG neurons during the process of peripheral inflammation. We disrupted the normal NGF/TrkA signaling in adjuvant-induced arthritic (AIA) Sprague Dawley rats by the pharmacological inhibition of TrkA or blockade of Rab7GTPase, which significantly attenuated the expression of GLS in DRG cell bodies. The results indicate that NGF/TrkA signaling is crucial for the production of glutamate and has a vital role in the development of neurogenic inflammation. In addition, our pain behavioral data suggest that Rab7GTPase can be a potential target for attenuating peripheral inflammatory pain.

Asunto(s)

Ganglios Espinales , Glutaminasa , Inflamación , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Receptor trkA , Transducción de Señal , Animales , Ganglios Espinales/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Glutaminasa/metabolismo , Ratas , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Inflamación/metabolismo , Inflamación/patología , Masculino , Neuronas/metabolismo , Proteínas de Unión al GTP rab/metabolismo , Proteínas de Unión al GTP rab/genética , Proteínas de Unión a GTP rab7

RESUMEN

Tyrosine kinase (TK) fusions are frequently found in cancers, either as initiating events or as a mechanism of resistance to targeted therapy. Partner genes and exons in most TK fusions are followed typical recurrent patterns, but the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of these patterns are poorly understood. By developing Functionally Active Chromosomal Translocation Sequencing (FACTS), we discover that typical TK fusions involving ALK, ROS1, RET and NTRK1 are selected from pools of chromosomal rearrangements by two major determinants: active transcription of the fusion partner genes and protein stability. In contrast, atypical TK fusions that are rarely seen in patients showed reduced protein stability, decreased downstream oncogenic signaling, and were less responsive to inhibition. Consistently, patients with atypical TK fusions were associated with a reduced response to TKI therapies. Our findings highlight the principles of oncogenic TK fusion formation and selection in cancers, with clinical implications for guiding targeted therapy.

Asunto(s)

Neoplasias , Proteínas de Fusión Oncogénica , Proteínas Tirosina Quinasas , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret , Translocación Genética , Humanos , Neoplasias/genética , Neoplasias/tratamiento farmacológico , Proteínas de Fusión Oncogénica/genética , Proteínas de Fusión Oncogénica/metabolismo , Proteínas Tirosina Quinasas/genética , Proteínas Tirosina Quinasas/metabolismo , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret/genética , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret/metabolismo , Quinasa de Linfoma Anaplásico/genética , Quinasa de Linfoma Anaplásico/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/uso terapéutico , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas/genética , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas/metabolismo , Transducción de Señal/genética , Línea Celular Tumoral

RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: A neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK)-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) has shown dramatic efficacy against malignant tumors harboring an NTRK fusion gene. However, almost all tumors eventually acquire resistance to NTRK-TKIs. METHOD: To investigate the mechanism of resistance to NTRK-TKIs, we established cells resistant to three types of NTRK-TKIs (larotrectinib, entrectinib, and selitrectinib) using KM12 colon cancer cells with a TPM3-NTRK1 rearrangement. RESULT: Overexpression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (HMGCS2) was observed in three resistant cells (KM12-LR, KM12-ER, and KM12-SR) by microarray analysis. Lower expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα) was found in two cells (KM12-ER and KM12-SR) in which HMGCS2 was overexpressed compared to the parental KM12 and KM12-LR cells. In resistant cells, knockdown of HMGCS2 using small interfering RNA improved the sensitivity to NTRK-TKI. Further treatment with mevalonolactone after HMGCS2 knockdown reintroduced the NTRK-TKI resistance. In addition, simvastatin and silibinin had a synergistic effect with NTRK-TKIs in resistant cells, and delayed tolerance was observed after sustained exposure to clinical concentrations of NTRK-TKI and simvastatin in KM12 cells. In xenograft mouse models, combination treatment with entrectinib and simvastatin reduced resistant tumor growth compared with entrectinib alone. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that HMGCS2 overexpression induces resistance to NTRK-TKIs via the mevalonate pathway in colon cancer cells. Statin inhibition of the mevalonate pathway may be useful for overcoming this mechanistic resistance.

Asunto(s)

Resistencia a Antineoplásicos , Ácido Mevalónico , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Animales , Humanos , Ratones , Benzamidas/farmacología , Benzamidas/uso terapéutico , Línea Celular Tumoral , Neoplasias del Colon/tratamiento farmacológico , Neoplasias del Colon/metabolismo , Neoplasias del Colon/patología , Neoplasias del Colon/genética , Hidroximetilglutaril-CoA Sintasa/metabolismo , Hidroximetilglutaril-CoA Sintasa/genética , Indazoles/farmacología , Indazoles/uso terapéutico , Ácido Mevalónico/metabolismo , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Pirazoles/farmacología , Pirimidinas/farmacología , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/genética , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Ensayos Antitumor por Modelo de Xenoinjerto

RESUMEN

Endosomal trafficking of TrkA is a critical process for nerve growth factor (NGF)-dependent neuronal cell survival and differentiation. The small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6) is implicated in NGF-dependent processes in PC12 cells through endosomal trafficking and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. However, the regulatory mechanism for Arf6 in NGF signaling is largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that EFA6A, an Arf6-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor, was abundantly expressed in PC12 cells and that knockdown of EFA6A significantly inhibited NGF-dependent Arf6 activation, TrkA recycling from early endosomes to the cell surface, prolonged ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and neurite outgrowth. We also demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA through its N-terminal region, thereby enhancing its catalytic activity for Arf6. Similarly, we demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Furthermore, cultured DRG neurons from EFA6A knockout mice exhibited disturbed NGF-dependent TrkA trafficking compared with wild-type neurons. These findings provide the first evidence for EFA6A as a key regulator of NGF-dependent TrkA trafficking and signaling.

Asunto(s)

Factor 6 de Ribosilación del ADP , Factores de Ribosilacion-ADP , Endosomas , Factores de Intercambio de Guanina Nucleótido , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Proyección Neuronal , Receptor trkA , Animales , Ratones , Ratas , Factores de Ribosilacion-ADP/metabolismo , Factores de Ribosilacion-ADP/genética , Endosomas/metabolismo , Ganglios Espinales/metabolismo , Factores de Intercambio de Guanina Nucleótido/metabolismo , Factores de Intercambio de Guanina Nucleótido/genética , Ratones Noqueados , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Células PC12 , Transporte de Proteínas , Receptor trkA/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Aberrant RET kinase signaling is activated in numerous cancers including lung, thyroid, breast, pancreatic, and prostate. Recent approvals of selective RET inhibitors, pralsetinib and selpercatinib, has shifted the focus of RET kinase drug discovery programs towards the development of selective inhibitors. However, selective inhibitors invariably lose efficacy as the selective nature of the inhibitor places Darwinian-like pressure on the tumor to bypass treatment through the selection of novel oncogenic drivers. Further, selective inhibitors are restricted for use in tumors with specific genetic backgrounds that do not encompass diverse patient classes. Here we report the identification of a pyrimido indole RET inhibitor found to also have activity against TRK. This selective dual RET/TRK inhibitor can be utilized in tumors with both RET and TRK genetic backgrounds and can also provide blockade of NTRK-fusions that are selected for from RET inhibitor treatments. Efforts towards developing dual RET/TRK inhibitors can be beneficial in terms of encompassing more diverse patient classes while also achieving blockade against emerging resistance mechanisms.

Asunto(s)

Indoles , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret , Receptor trkA , Humanos , Antineoplásicos/farmacología , Antineoplásicos/química , Antineoplásicos/síntesis química , Línea Celular Tumoral , Descubrimiento de Drogas , Indoles/química , Indoles/farmacología , Indoles/síntesis química , Estructura Molecular , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/química , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/síntesis química , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret/antagonistas & inhibidores , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-ret/metabolismo , Pirimidinas/química , Pirimidinas/farmacología , Pirimidinas/síntesis química , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Relación Estructura-Actividad

RESUMEN

Pediatric neuroblastomas (NBs) are heterogeneous, aggressive, therapy-resistant embryonal tumors that originate from cells of neural crest origin committed to the sympathoadrenal progenitor cell lineage. Stress- and drug-resistance mechanisms drive post-therapeutic relapse and metastatic progression, the characterization and inhibition of which are major goals in improving therapeutic responses. Stress- and drug-resistance mechanisms in NBs include alternative TrkAIII splicing of the neurotrophin receptor tropomyosin-related kinase A (NTRK1/TrkA), which correlates with post-therapeutic relapse and advanced-stage metastatic disease. The TrkAIII receptor variant exerts oncogenic activity in NB models by mechanisms that include stress-induced mitochondrial importation and activation. In this study, we characterize novel targetable and non-targetable participants in this pro-survival mechanism in TrkAIII-expressing SH-SY5Y NB cells, using dithiothreitol (DTT) as an activator and a variety of inhibitors by regular and immunoprecipitation Western blotting of purified mitochondria and IncuCyte cytotoxicity assays. We report that stress-induced TrkAIII misfolding initiates this mechanism, resulting in Grp78, Ca2+-calmodulin, adenosine ribosylating factor (Arf) and Hsp90-regulated mitochondrial importation. TrkAIII imported into inner mitochondrial membranes is cleaved by Omi/high temperature requirement protein A2 (HtrA2) then activated by a mechanism dependent upon calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII), alpha serine/threonine kinase (Akt), mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter and reactive oxygen species (ROS), involving inhibitory mitochondrial protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPase) oxidation, resulting in phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K) activation of mitochondrial Akt, which enhances stress resistance. This novel pro-survival function for misfolded TrkAIII mitigates the cytotoxicity of mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis disrupted during integrated stress responses, and is prevented by clinically approved Trk and Akt inhibitors and also by inhibitors of 78kDa glucose regulated protein (Grp78), heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), Ca2+-calmodulin and PI3K. This identifies Grp78, Ca2+-calmodulin, Hsp90, PI3K and Akt as novel targetable participants in this mechanism, in addition to TrkAIII, the inhibition of which has the potential to enhance the stress-induced elimination of TrkAIII-expressing NB cells, with the potential to improve therapeutic outcomes in NBs that exhibit TrkAIII expression and activation.

Asunto(s)

Chaperón BiP del Retículo Endoplásmico , Mitocondrias , Neuroblastoma , Receptor trkA , Humanos , Chaperón BiP del Retículo Endoplásmico/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Neuroblastoma/metabolismo , Neuroblastoma/patología , Mitocondrias/metabolismo , Mitocondrias/efectos de los fármacos , Línea Celular Tumoral , Pliegue de Proteína , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Estrés Fisiológico/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: The Trk family proteins are membrane-bound kinases predominantly expressed in neuronal tissues. Activated by neurotrophins, they regulate critical cellular processes through downstream signaling pathways. Dysregulation of Trk signaling can drive a range of diseases, making the design and study of Trk inhibitors a vital area of research. This review explores recent advances in the development of type II and III Trk inhibitors, with implications for various therapeutic applications. AREAS COVERED: Patents covering type II and III inhibitors targeting the Trk family are discussed as a complement of the previous review, Type I inhibitors of tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk): a 2020-2022 patent update. Relevant patents were identified using the Web of Science database, Google, and Google Patents. EXPERT OPINION: While type II and III Trk inhibitor development has advanced more gradually compared to their type I counterparts, they hold significant promise in overcoming resistance mutations and achieving enhanced subtype selectivity - a critical factor in reducing adverse effects associated with pan-Trk inhibition. Recent interdisciplinary endeavors have marked substantial progress in the design of subtype selective Trk inhibitors, with impressive success heralded by the type III inhibitors. Notably, the emergence of mutant-selective Trk inhibitors introduces an intriguing dimension to the field, offering precise treatment possibilities.

Asunto(s)

Diseño de Fármacos , Desarrollo de Medicamentos , Patentes como Asunto , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas , Transducción de Señal , Humanos , Animales , Inhibidores de Proteínas Quinasas/farmacología , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Mutación

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Our research focused on the assessment of the impact of systemic inhibition of Trk receptors, which bind to nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), on bladder hypersensitivity in two distinct rodent models of prostatic inflammation (PI). METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups (n = 6 each): the control group (no PI, vehicle administration), the untreated group (PI, vehicle administration), and the treated group (PI, nonselective Trk inhibitor, GNF 5837, administration). PI in rats was induced by a intraprostatic injection of 5% formalin. Posttreatment, we carried out conscious cystometry and a range of histological and molecular analyses. Moreover, the study additionally evaluated the effects of a nonselective Trk inhibitor on bladder overactivity in a mouse model of PI, which was induced by prostate epithelium-specific conditional deletion of E-cadherin. RESULTS: The rat model of PI showed upregulations of NGF and BDNF in both bladder and prostate tissues in association with bladder overactivity and inflammation in the ventral lobes of the prostate. GNF 5837 treatment effectively mitigated these PI-induced changes, along with reductions in TrkA, TrkB, TrkC, and TRPV1 mRNA expressions in L6-S1 dorsal root ganglia. Also, in the mouse PI model, GNF 5837 treatment similarly improved bladder overactivity. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of our study suggest that Trk receptor inhibition, which reduced bladder hypersensitivity and inflammatory responses in the prostate, along with a decrease in overexpression of Trk and TRPV1 receptors in sensory pathways, could be an effective treatment strategy for male lower urinary tract symptoms associated with PI and bladder overactivity.

Asunto(s)

Prostatitis , Receptor trkA , Vejiga Urinaria Hiperactiva , Animales , Masculino , Ratones , Ratas , Administración Oral , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/metabolismo , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/genética , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Inflamación/tratamiento farmacológico , Inflamación/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/antagonistas & inhibidores , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/genética , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Próstata/efectos de los fármacos , Próstata/patología , Próstata/metabolismo , Prostatitis/tratamiento farmacológico , Prostatitis/patología , Prostatitis/metabolismo , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkB/antagonistas & inhibidores , Receptor trkB/metabolismo , Vejiga Urinaria/efectos de los fármacos , Vejiga Urinaria/patología , Vejiga Urinaria/metabolismo , Vejiga Urinaria Hiperactiva/tratamiento farmacológico , Vejiga Urinaria Hiperactiva/etiología

RESUMEN

The authors' previous research has shown the pivotal roles of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) and its regulatory protein p35 in nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced differentiation of sympathetic neurons in PC12 cells. During the process of differentiation, neurons are susceptible to environmental influences, including the effects of drugs. Metformin is commonly used in the treatment of diabetes and its associated symptoms, particularly in diabetic neuropathy, which is characterized by dysregulation of the sympathetic neurons. However, the impacts of metformin on sympathetic neuronal differentiation remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the impact of metformin on NGF-induced sympathetic neuronal differentiation using rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells as a model. We examined the regulation of TrkA-p35/CDK5 signaling in NGF-induced PC12 differentiation. Our results demonstrate that metformin reduces NGF-induced PC12 differentiation by inactivating the TrkA receptor, subsequently inhibiting ERK and EGR1. Inhibition of this cascade ultimately leads to the downregulation of p35/CDK5 in PC12 cells. Furthermore, metformin inhibits the activation of the presynaptic protein Synapsin-I, a substrate of CDK5, in PC12 differentiation. In addition, metformin alters axonal and synaptic bouton formation by inhibiting p35 at both the axons and axon terminals in fully differentiated PC12 cells. In summary, our study elucidates that metformin inhibits sympathetic neuronal differentiation in PC12 cells by disrupting TrkA/ERK/EGR1 and p35/CDK5 signaling. This research contributes to uncovering a novel signaling mechanism in drug response during sympathetic neuronal differentiation, enhancing our understanding of the intricate molecular processes governing this critical aspect of neurodevelopment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study unveils a novel mechanism influenced by metformin during sympathetic neuronal differentiation. By elucidating its inhibitory effects from the nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor, TrkA, to the p35/CDK5 signaling pathways, we advance our understanding of metformin's mechanisms of action and emphasize its potential significance in the context of drug responses during sympathetic neuronal differentiation.

Asunto(s)

Diferenciación Celular , Quinasa 5 Dependiente de la Ciclina , Metformina , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Neuronas , Receptor trkA , Animales , Metformina/farmacología , Ratas , Células PC12 , Quinasa 5 Dependiente de la Ciclina/metabolismo , Quinasa 5 Dependiente de la Ciclina/antagonistas & inhibidores , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/farmacología , Receptor trkA/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/antagonistas & inhibidores , Neuronas/efectos de los fármacos , Neuronas/metabolismo , Diferenciación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Neurogénesis/efectos de los fármacos , Proteína 1 de la Respuesta de Crecimiento Precoz/metabolismo , Proteína 1 de la Respuesta de Crecimiento Precoz/genética , Proteínas del Tejido Nervioso/metabolismo , Proteínas del Tejido Nervioso/genética , Fosfotransferasas

RESUMEN

AIMS: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterised by an increase in pulmonary arterial pressure, ultimately leading to right ventricular failure and death. We have previously shown that nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a critical role in PH. Our objectives here were to determine whether NGF controls Connexin-43 (Cx43) expression and function in the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle, and whether this mechanism contributes to NGF-induced pulmonary artery hyperreactivity. METHODS AND RESULTS: NGF activates its TrkA receptor to increase Cx43 expression, phosphorylation, and localization at the plasma membrane in human pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, thus leading to enhanced activity of Cx43-dependent GAP junctions as shown by Lucifer Yellow dye assay transfer and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching -FRAP- experiments. Using both in vitro pharmacological and in vivo SiRNA approaches, we demonstrate that NGF-dependent increase in Cx43 expression and activity in the rat pulmonary circulation causes pulmonary artery hyperreactivity. We also show that, in a rat model of PH induced by chronic hypoxia, in vivo blockade of NGF or of its TrkA receptor significantly reduces Cx43 increased pulmonary arterial expression induced by chronic hypoxia and displays preventive effects on pulmonary arterial pressure increase and right heart hypertrophy. CONCLUSIONS: Modulation of Cx43 by NGF in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells contributes to NGF-induced alterations of pulmonary artery reactivity. Since NGF and its TrkA receptor play a role in vivo in Cx43 increased expression in PH induced by chronic hypoxia, these NGF/Cx43-dependent mechanisms may therefore play a significant role in human PH pathophysiology.

Asunto(s)

Conexina 43 , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Arteria Pulmonar , Animales , Humanos , Masculino , Ratas , Células Cultivadas , Conexina 43/metabolismo , Uniones Comunicantes/metabolismo , Uniones Comunicantes/efectos de los fármacos , Hipertensión Pulmonar/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Fosforilación , Arteria Pulmonar/efectos de los fármacos , Arteria Pulmonar/metabolismo , Arteria Pulmonar/patología , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Ratas Wistar , Receptor trkA/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Neurotrophins are a family of growth factors that play a key role in the development and regulation of the functioning of the central nervous system. Their use as drugs is made difficult by their poor stability, cellular permeability, and side effects. Continuing our effort to use peptides that mimic the neurotrophic growth factor (NGF), the family model protein, and specifically the N-terminus of the protein, here we report on the spectroscopic characterization and resistance to hydrolysis of the 14-membered cyclic peptide reproducing the N-terminus sequence (SSSHPIFHRGEFSV (c-NGF(1-14)). Far-UV CD spectra and a computational study show that this peptide has a rigid conformation and left-handed chirality typical of polyproline II that favors its interaction with the D5 domain of the NGF receptor TrkA. c-NGF(1-14) is able to bind Cu2+ with good affinity; the resulting complexes have been characterized by potentiometric and spectroscopic measurements. Experiments on PC12 cells show that c-NGF(1-14) acts as an ionophore, influencing the degree and the localization of both the membrane transporter (Ctr1) and the copper intracellular transporter (CCS). c-NGF(1-14) induces PC12 differentiation, mimics the protein in TrkA phosphorylation, and activates the kinase cascade, inducing Erk1/2 phosphorylation. c-NGF(1-14) biological activities are enhanced when the peptide interacts with Cu2+ even with the submicromolar quantities present in the culture media as demonstrated by ICP-OES measurements. Finally, c-NGF(1-14) and Cu2+ concur to activate the cAMP response element-binding protein CREB that, in turn, induces the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release.

Asunto(s)

Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo , Cobre , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso , Péptidos Cíclicos , Factor A de Crecimiento Endotelial Vascular , Células PC12 , Animales , Ratas , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/farmacología , Factor de Crecimiento Nervioso/metabolismo , Factor A de Crecimiento Endotelial Vascular/metabolismo , Cobre/metabolismo , Cobre/farmacología , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/metabolismo , Péptidos Cíclicos/farmacología , Péptidos Cíclicos/química , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Transducción de Señal/fisiología , Ionóforos/farmacología , Proteínas de Transporte de Catión/metabolismo , Receptor trkA/metabolismo