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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/174403
Pharmacology and preclinical validation of a novel anticancer compound targeting PEPCK-M
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Background: Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyzes the decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate. The mitochondrial isozyme, PEPCK-M is highly expressed in cancer cells, where it plays a role in nutrient stress response. To date, pharmacological strategies to target this pathway have not been pursued. Methods: A compound embodying a 3-alkyl-1,8-dibenzylxanthine nucleus (iPEPCK-2), was synthesized and successfully probed in silico on a PEPCK-M structural model. Potency and target engagement in vitro and in vivo were evaluated by kinetic and cellular thermal shift assays (CETSA). The compound and its target were validated in tumor growth models in vitro and in murine xenografts. Results: Cross-inhibitory capacity and increased potency as compared to 3-MPA were confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with iPEPCK-2 inhibited cell growth and survival, especially in poor-nutrient environment, consistent with an impact on colony formation in soft agar. Finally, daily administration of the PEPCK-M inhibitor successfully inhibited tumor growth in two murine xenograft models as compared to vehicle, without weight loss, or any sign of apparent toxicity. Conclusion: We conclude that iPEPCK-2 is a compelling anticancer drug targeting PEPCK-M, a hallmark gene product involved in metabolic adaptations of the tumor.
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Articles publicats en revistes (Farmacologia, Toxicologia i Química Terapèutica)
Articles publicats en revistes (Farmàcia, Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Fisicoquímica)
Articles publicats en revistes (Institut d'lnvestigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL))
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Citation
ARAGÓ, Marc, et al. Pharmacology and preclinical validation of a novel anticancer compound targeting PEPCK-M. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2020. Vol. 121, num. 109601. ISSN 0753-3322. [consulted: 9 of June of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/174403