Discovery of new small molecule inhibitors of the BPTF bromodomain

Chromatin remodeling regulates many basic cellular processes, such as gene transcription, DNA repair, and programmed cell death. As the largest member of nucleosome remodeling factor (NURF), BPTF plays a vital role in the occurrence and development of cancer. Currently, BPTF bromodomain inhibitors are still in development. In this study, by conducting homogenous time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (HTRF) assay, we identified a potential, novel BPTF inhibitor scaffold Sanguinarine chloride with the IC₅₀ value of 344.2 ± 25.1 nM. Biochemical analysis revealed that compound Sanguinarine chloride exhibited high binding affinity to the BPTF bromodomain. Molecular docking predicted the binding mode of Sanguinarine chloride and elucidated the activities of its derivatives. Moreover, Sanguinarine chloride showed a potent anti-proliferative effect in MIAPaCa-2 cells and inhibited the expression of BPTF target gene c-Myc. Taken together, Sanguinarine chloride provides a qualified chemical tool for developing potent BPTF bromodomain inhibitors.