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Published on: May 28, 2014
BCL2 G quadruplex-binding small molecules: Current status and prospects for the development of next-generation
Mamta Singh1, Rajat Gupta1, Lucia Comez2
1Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Noida, UP, 201303, India.
Abstract:
B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) overexpression in a range of human tumors is often related to chemotherapy resistance and poor prognosis. GC-rich regions upstream of the P1 promoter in human BCL2 can form G-quadruplex (G4) structures through the stacking of four Hoogsteen-paired guanine bases. Stabilizing the G4 fold implies the inhibition of BCL2 expression and, thus, small molecules that selectively bind to the G4 are promising anticancer candidates. In this review, we discuss the structural aspects, binding affinity, selectivity, and biological activity of well-characterized BCL2 G4 binding ligands in vitro and in vivo. We also explore future directions in the research and development of G4-based anticancer therapeutics.
Insights
Small molecules targeting BCL2 gene G-quadruplex structures show promise for cancer therapy. Stabilizing these structures inhibits BCL2 expression, offering a new strategy against chemotherapy resistance and poor prognosis in various human tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Overexpression of BCL2 (B cell lymphoma 2) is linked to chemotherapy resistance and poor prognosis in human cancers.
- GC-rich regions in the BCL2 gene promoter can form G-quadruplex (G4) structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review BCL2 G4 binding ligands as potential anticancer therapeutics.
- To discuss structural features, binding characteristics, and biological activity of these ligands.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on BCL2 G4 structures and their ligands.
- Analysis of in vitro and in vivo data on ligand efficacy and selectivity.
Main Results:
- G4 structures in the BCL2 promoter can be targeted by small molecules.
- Selective binding of ligands to BCL2 G4 structures inhibits gene expression.
- Demonstrated in vitro and in vivo activity of characterized BCL2 G4 binding ligands.
Conclusions:
- Targeting BCL2 G4 structures represents a promising anticancer therapeutic strategy.
- Further research into G4-based therapeutics could lead to novel treatments for BCL2-overexpressing cancers.
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