Integrative Analyses Reveal the Anticancer Mechanisms and Sensitivity Markers of the Next-Generation Hypomethylating Agent NTX-301.

Abstract

Epigenetic dysregulation characterized by aberrant DNA hypermethylation is a hallmark of cancer, and it can be targeted by hypomethylating agents (HMAs). Recently, we described the superior therapeutic efficacy of a novel HMA, namely, NTX-301, when used as a monotherapy and in combination with venetoclax in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Following a previous study, we further explored the therapeutic properties of NTX-301 based on experimental investigations and integrative data analyses. Comprehensive sensitivity profiling revealed that NTX-301 primarily exerted anticancer effects against blood cancers and exhibited improved potency against a wide range of solid cancers. Subsequent assays showed that the superior efficacy of NTX-301 depended on its strong effects on cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and differentiation. Due to its superior efficacy, low doses of NTX-301 achieved sufficiently substantial tumor regression in vivo. Multiomics analyses revealed the mechanisms of action (MoAs) of NTX-301 and linked these MoAs to markers of sensitivity to NTX-301 and to the demethylation activity of NTX-301 with high concordance. In conclusion, our findings provide a rationale for currently ongoing clinical trials of NTX-301 and will help guide the development of novel therapeutic options for cancer patients.

• Authors: Byungho Lim, Dabin Yoo, Younghwa Chun, Areum Go, Ji Yeon Kim, Ha Young Lee, Rebecca J Boohaker, Kyung-Jin Cho, Sunjoo Ahn, Jin Soo Lee, DooYoung Jung, Gildon Choi
• Journal: Cancers (Cancers (Basel)) Vol. 15 Issue 6 (Mar 13 2023) ISSN: 2072-6694 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 36980623 (Publication Type: Journal Article)