Structural basis for isoform-specific inhibition of human CTPS1

Cytidine triphosphate synthase 1 (CTPS1) is necessary for an effective immune response, as revealed by severe immunodeficiency in CTPS1-deficient individuals [E. Martin et al.], [Nature] [510], [288-292] ([2014]). CTPS1 expression is up-regulated in activated lymphocytes to expand CTP pools [E. Martin et al.], [Nature] [510], [288-292] ([2014]), satisfying increased demand for nucleic acid and lipid synthesis [L. D. Fairbanks, M. Bofill, K. Ruckemann, H. A. Simmonds], [J. Biol. Chem. ] [270], [29682-29689] ([1995]). Demand for CTP in other tissues is met by the CTPS2 isoform and nucleoside salvage pathways [E. Martin et al.], [Nature] [510], [288-292] ([2014]). Selective inhibition of the proliferative CTPS1 isoform is therefore desirable in the treatment of immune disorders and lymphocyte cancers, but little is known about differences in regulation of the isoforms or mechanisms of known inhibitors. We show that CTP regulates both isoforms by binding in two sites that clash with substrates. CTPS1 is less sensitive to CTP feedback inhibition, consistent with its role in increasing CTP levels in proliferation. We also characterize recently reported small-molecule inhibitors, both CTPS1 selective and nonselective. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures reveal these inhibitors mimic CTP binding in one inhibitory site, where a single amino acid substitution explains selectivity for CTPS1. The inhibitors bind to CTPS assembled into large-scale filaments, which for CTPS1 normally represents a hyperactive form of the enzyme [E. M. Lynch et al.], [Nat. Struct. Mol. Biol.] [24], [507-514] ([2017]). This highlights the utility of cryo-EM in drug discovery, particularly for cases in which targets form large multimeric assemblies not amenable to structure determination by other techniques. Both inhibitors also inhibit the proliferation of human primary T cells. The mechanisms of selective inhibition of CTPS1 lay the foundation for the design of immunosuppressive therapies.

Automated summary

CTPS1 is essential for an effective immune response, with deficiency leading to severe immunodeficiency. CTPS1 expression is up-regulated in activated lymphocytes to meet the increased demand for nucleic acid and lipid synthesis. Selective inhibition of CTPS1 could be beneficial for treating immune disorders and lymphocyte cancers, with recent small-molecule inhibitors showing promise in inhibiting proliferation of human T cells.