Optimization of a Novel DEL Hit That Binds in the Cbl-b SH2 Domain and Blocks Substrate Binding
Jun Liang1, Michael J Lambrecht1, Teresita L Arenzana1
1Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States.
Abstract:
We were attracted to the therapeutic potential of inhibiting Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-b (Cbl-b), a RING E3 ligase that plays a critical role in regulating the activation of T cells. However, given that only protein-protein interactions were involved, it was unclear whether inhibition by a small molecule would be a viable approach. After screening an ∼6 billion member DNA-encoded library (DEL) using activated Cbl-b, we identified compound 1 as a hit for which the cis-isomer (2) was confirmed by biochemical and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assays. Our hit optimization effort was greatly accelerated when we obtained a cocrystal structure of 2 with Cbl-b, which demonstrated induced binding at the substrate binding site, namely, the Src homology-2 (SH2) domain. This was quite noteworthy given that there are few reports of small molecule inhibitors that bind to SH2 domains and block protein-protein interactions. Structure- and property-guided optimization led to compound 27, which demonstrated measurable cell activity, albeit only at high concentrations.
Insights
Researchers explored small molecule inhibitors for Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-b (Cbl-b), a key regulator of T cell activation. They identified a promising compound targeting the SH2 domain, advancing Cbl-b inhibition strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-b (Cbl-b) is a RING E3 ligase crucial for T cell activation regulation.
- Inhibiting Cbl-b holds therapeutic potential, but targeting protein-protein interactions with small molecules is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and develop small molecule inhibitors of Cbl-b.
- To explore the feasibility of targeting Cbl-b's SH2 domain for blocking protein-protein interactions.
Main Methods:
- Screening of a large DNA-encoded library (DEL) against activated Cbl-b.
- Biochemical assays and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) for compound validation.
- Cocrystallography to determine the binding mode of inhibitors.
Main Results:
- A Cbl-b inhibitor (compound 1) was identified from the DEL screen, with its cis-isomer (compound 2) confirmed.
- Cocrystal structure revealed compound 2 binds to the Cbl-b SH2 domain via induced fit.
- Structure-guided optimization yielded compound 27 with measurable, though high-concentration, cell activity.
Conclusions:
- Small molecules can effectively inhibit Cbl-b by targeting its SH2 domain.
- This work provides a foundation for developing novel therapeutics targeting T cell signaling pathways.
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