MCL-1 Is a Key Determinant of Breast Cancer Cell Survival: Validation of MCL-1 Dependency Utilizing a Highly Selective Small Molecule Inhibitor

Hyperexpression of antiapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins allows cells to survive despite the receipt of signals that would ordinarily induce their deletion, a facet frequently exploited by tumors. Tumors addicted to the BCL-2 family proteins for survival are now being targeted therapeutically. For example, navitoclax, a BCL-2/BCL-XL/BCL-W inhibitor, is currently in phase I/II clinical trials in numerous malignancies. However, the related family member, MCL-1, limits the efficacy of navitoclax and other chemotherapeutic agents. In the present study, we identify breast cancer cell lines that depend upon MCL-1 for survival and subsequently determine the mechanism of apoptosis mediated by the MCL-1 selective inhibitor A-1210477. We demonstrate that apoptosis resulting from a loss in MCL-1 function requires expression of the proapoptotic protein BAK. However, expression of BCL-XL can limit apoptosis resulting from loss in MCL-1 function through sequestration of free BIM. Finally, we demonstrate substantial synergy between navitoclax and MCL-1 siRNA, the direct MCL-1 inhibitor A-1210477, or the indirect MCL-1 inhibitor flavopiridol, highlighting the therapeutic potential for inhibiting BCL-XL and MCL-1 in breast cancer.