PROTACs in gastrointestinal cancers
Yu Chen1,2, Qingfan Yang3, Jinrun Xu1,2
1Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China.
Abstract:
Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) presents a powerful strategy for targeted protein degradation (TPD). The heterobifunctional PROTAC molecule consists of an E3 ligase ligand covalently linked to a protein of interest (POI) via a linker. PROTAC can induce ubiquitinated proteasomal degradation of proteins by hijacking the ubiquitin-proteasome degradation system (UPS). This technique has the advantages of broad targeting profile, good cell permeability, tissue specificity, high selectivity, oral bioavailability, and controllability. To date, a growing number of PROTACs targeting gastrointestinal cancers have been successfully developed, and, in many cases, their POIs have been validated as clinical drug targets. To the best of our knowledge, 15 PROTACs against various targets are currently tested in clinical trials, and many more are likely to be added in the near future. Therefore, this paper details the mechanism, research progress, and application in clinical trials of PROTACs, and summarizes the research achievements related to PROTACs in gastrointestinal cancers. Finally, we discuss the advantages and potential challenges of PROTAC for cancer treatment.
Insights
Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) offer a novel method for targeted protein degradation, showing promise in treating gastrointestinal cancers. This technology is advancing rapidly, with 15 PROTACs in clinical trials for various targets.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules designed for targeted protein degradation (TPD).
- PROTACs leverage the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) to selectively degrade target proteins.
- This technology offers advantages such as broad targeting, cell permeability, tissue specificity, and oral bioavailability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanism, research progress, and clinical applications of PROTACs.
- To summarize achievements in developing PROTACs for gastrointestinal cancers.
- To discuss the benefits and challenges of PROTACs in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PROTAC technology and its applications.
- Analysis of PROTAC development for gastrointestinal cancer targets.
- Examination of ongoing clinical trials involving PROTACs.
Main Results:
- PROTACs have demonstrated significant potential in targeted protein degradation.
- Numerous PROTACs targeting gastrointestinal cancers have been developed, with validated targets.
- Fifteen PROTACs are currently in clinical trials, indicating rapid advancement.
Conclusions:
- PROTAC technology represents a powerful strategy for targeted protein degradation in cancer treatment.
- The application of PROTACs in gastrointestinal cancers is a rapidly evolving field with promising clinical outcomes.
- Further research and development are crucial to overcome challenges and maximize the therapeutic potential of PROTACs.
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