Exploring targeted degradation strategy for oncogenic KRASG12C

KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene found in pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers. Although it has been challenging to identify targeted therapies for cancers harboring KRAS mutations, one particular form of mutant KRAS, namely KRASG12C, can be targeted by small molecule inhibitors that form covalent bonds with cysteine 12 (C12). Here, we designed a library of C12-directed covalent degrader molecules (PROTACs) and subjected them to a rigorous evaluation process to rapidly identify a lead compound. Although our lead degrader successfully engaged CRBN in cells, bound KRASG12C in vitro, induced CRBN/ KRASG12C dimerization, and degraded GFP-KRASG12C in GFP reporter cells in a CRBN-dependent manner, it failed to degrade endogenous KRASG12C in pancreatic and lung cancer cells. Our data suggest that inability of the lead degrader to effectively polyubiquitinate endogenous KRASG12C underlies the lack of activity. We discuss challenges for achieving targeted KRASG12C degradation and propose several possible solutions which may lead to efficient degradation of endogenous KRASG12C.