Active site remodeling in tumor-relevant IDH1 mutants drives distinct kinetic features and potential resistance

Matthew Mealka1, Nicole A Sierra1, Diego Avellaneda Matteo1

  • 1Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.

PubMed

Insights

Mutations in human isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) cause cancer by creating a new function. The R132Q mutant IDH1 shows unique structural changes, improving both normal and cancer-driving activities.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Biology

Background:

  • Mutations in human isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) are drivers of various cancers.
  • IDH1 mutations confer neomorphic activity, producing an oncometabolite that promotes tumor formation.
  • Mechanistic differences among IDH1 mutants remain poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanistic differences between tumor-driving IDH1 mutants.
  • To compare the reaction mechanisms of the R132Q mutant, which retains conventional activity while producing oncometabolites, with other mutants.
  • To understand how IDH1 mutations contribute to cancer and therapeutic resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized static and dynamic structural methods.
  • Analyzed the active site conformation and substrate binding.
  • Assessed hydride transfer efficiency.

Main Results:

  • The R132Q IDH1 active site adopts a conformation optimized for catalysis.
  • Compared to the R132H mutant, R132Q exhibits enhanced substrate binding and hydride transfer.
  • R132Q demonstrates improved conventional and neomorphic activity over R132H.
  • Observed active site remodeling in R132Q that may explain resistance to IDH1 inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • The structural plasticity of the IDH1 active site influences its catalytic activities.
  • Understanding IDH1 active site remodeling is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies.
  • This study provides insights into IDH1 mechanisms and identifies targets for improving inhibitor selectivity.