Inhibitors of UHRF1 base flipping activity showing cytotoxicity against cancer cells.
Fiche publication
Date publication
mai 2023
Journal
Bioorganic chemistry
Auteurs
Membres identifiés du Cancéropôle Est :
Pr MELY Yves, Dr RUFF Marc, Dr MOUSLI Marc
Tous les auteurs :
Ciaco S, Mazzoleni V, Javed A, Eiler S, Ruff M, Mousli M, Mori M, Mély Y
Lien Pubmed
Résumé
Ubiquitin-like containing PHD and RING finger domain 1 (UHRF1) is a nuclear multi-domain protein overexpressed in numerous human cancer types. We previously disclosed the anthraquinone derivative UM63 that inhibits UHRF1-SRA domain base-flipping activity, although having DNA intercalating properties. Herein, based on the UM63 structure, new UHRF1-SRA inhibitors were identified through a multidisciplinary approach, combining molecular modelling, biophysical assays, molecular and cell biology experiments. We identified AMSA2 and MPB7, that inhibit UHRF1-SRA mediated base flipping at low micromolar concentrations, but do not intercalate into DNA, which is a key advantage over UM63. These molecules prevent UHRF1/DNMT1 interaction at replication forks and decrease the overall DNA methylation in cells. Moreover, both compounds specifically induce cell death in numerous cancer cell lines, displaying marginal effect on non-cancer cells, as they preferentially affect cells with high level of UHRF1. Overall, these two compounds are promising leads for the development of anti-cancer drugs targeting UHRF1.
Mots clés
Epigenetics, DNA methylation, Fluorescence, UHRF1 base flipping inhibitors, Virtual screening
Référence
Bioorg Chem. 2023 05 22;137:106616