Design, synthesis and optimization of Apcin analogues as Cdc20 inhibitors for triple-negative breast cancer therapy

Abstract

Cell division cycle 20 homologue (Cdc20) is an essential mitotic regulator whose overexpression is closely associated with tumorigenesis and poor prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Targeting Cdc20 has therefore emerged as a promising therapeutic avenue for this aggressive malignancy. In the present study, a receptor-based drug design approach was employed to optimize Apcin analogues as Cdc20 inhibitors. Through a two-step strategy—concept validation followed by structural optimization—we identified compound 14c, which demonstrated remarkable Cdc20 binding affinity (K_D: 7.65 μM), potent antiproliferative effects against MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells (IC₅₀: 3.28 μM), and a favorable selectivity index (4.22 for MCF-7 non-TNBC cells and 7.27 for MCF 10A normal cells). 14c effectively inhibited Cdc20 activity, induced G2/M phase arrest, promoted DNA damage accumulation, and stabilized key substrates such as Cyclin B1 and Bim, leading to enhanced apoptosis and suppression of tumor cell proliferation and migration. In vivo, 14c significantly inhibited tumor growth in an MDA-MB-231 xenograft model with a 90 % tumor inhibition rate and no observable toxicity. These results highlight the potential of 14c as a potent Cdc20 inhibitor, offering a promising therapeutic approach for TNBC.