Identification of a Non-Gatekeeper Hot Spot for Drug-Resistant Mutations in mTOR Kinase

• L2185 of mTOR kinase is a hot spot for drug-resistant mutations
• The “gatekeeper” residue does not confer drug resistance
• A three-ring heterocyclic chemical structure is refractory to drug resistance
• C- and R-spines of mTOR kinase are crucial for its catalytic function

SummaryProtein kinases are therapeutic targets for human cancer. However, “gatekeeper” mutations in tyrosine kinases cause acquired clinical resistance, limiting long-term treatment benefits. mTOR is a key cancer driver and drug target. Numerous small-molecule mTOR kinase inhibitors have been developed, with some already in human clinical trials. Given our clinical experience with targeted therapeutics, acquired drug resistance in mTOR is thought likely, but not yet documented. Herein, we describe identification of a hot spot (L2185) for drug-resistant mutations, which is distinct from the gatekeeper site, and a chemical scaffold refractory to drug-resistant mutations. We also provide new insights into mTOR kinase structure and function. The hot spot mutations are potentially useful as surrogate biomarkers for acquired drug resistance in ongoing clinical trials and future treatments and for the design of the next generation of mTOR-targeted drugs. Our study provides a foundation for further research into mTOR kinase function and targeting.

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