Editors: | F. Kongoli, A. G. Mamalis, K. Hokamoto |
Publisher: | Flogen Star OUTREACH |
Publication Year: | 2018 |
Pages: | 352 pages |
ISBN: | 978-1-987820-88-1 |
ISSN: | 2291-1227 (Metals and Materials Processing in a Clean Environment Series) |
Chk1 protein has been a target in the detectable genotoxic sensitivity of cells and tissues, and a major focus of pharmaceutical development to enhance sensitivity of tumor cells to chemo- and radiotherapy [1]. To take advantage of such biological effects, we identified a specific Chk1-binding 12-mer peptide from screening of phage display library and characterized the peptide in terms of cellular cytotoxicity, and effect on Chk1 activity, and sensitivity to genotoxic agents [2]. Interestingly, polyarginine-mediated internalization of the peptide redistributed nuclear Chk1 with prominent decrease in the nucleus in the absence of DNA damage. Treatment of HeLa cervical cancer cells or NCI-H460 lung cancer cells with the peptide significantly enhanced radiation sensitivity following ionizing radiation (IR). Moreover, IR-induced Chk1 destabilization was aggravated by Chk1 peptide treatment. The approach using the specific Chk1 peptide may facilitate a mechanistic understanding and potential modulation of Chk1 activities and provide a novel rationale for development of specific Chk1-targeting agents [3-4].