The anti-cancer drugs curaxins target spatial genome organization

Nat Commun. 2019 Mar 29;10(1):1441. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-09500-7.

Abstract

Recently we characterized a class of anti-cancer agents (curaxins) that disturbs DNA/histone interactions within nucleosomes. Here, using a combination of genomic and in vitro approaches, we demonstrate that curaxins strongly affect spatial genome organization and compromise enhancer-promoter communication, which is necessary for the expression of several oncogenes, including MYC. We further show that curaxins selectively inhibit enhancer-regulated transcription of chromatinized templates in cell-free conditions. Genomic studies also suggest that curaxins induce partial depletion of CTCF from its binding sites, which contributes to the observed changes in genome topology. Thus, curaxins can be classified as epigenetic drugs that target the 3D genome organization.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Binding Sites
  • CCCTC-Binding Factor / metabolism
  • Carbazoles / pharmacology*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • Enhancer Elements, Genetic
  • Genome, Human*
  • Humans
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • Protein Binding / drug effects
  • Transcription, Genetic / drug effects

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • CBLC137
  • CCCTC-Binding Factor
  • Carbazoles