Abstract LB117: Identification of novel SOS1-K-Ras disruptors for NSCLC and colon cancers with K-Ras mutation

KRAS along with other RAS genes represents the most prevalent oncogene in human cancers. Atypical Ras signaling has been identified in more than 30% of all human cancers with the most common being lung, colon, and pancreatic cancers. In particular, K-Ras has been identified as the most important Ras protein in cancer research, implicated in over 21% of human cancers. Current strategies drug only specific K-Ras mutants, leaving open an unmet need for new agents that can address a broader patient population. A new opportunity is emerging for the development of a therapeutic Pan Ras inhibitor by targeting the upstream guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) protein SOS (Son of sevenless). Disruption of SOS1- K-Ras mutant interaction is a good strategy to inhibit activation of mutant K-Ras. SOS1 inhibition through the protein-protein interaction (PPI) disruption assists in keeping K-Ras in the GDP inactive, rather than its active GTP-bound state. Inhibition of SOS1 results in blockade of the RAS-MEK-ERK pathway and lowering proliferation, in both WT and all mutant Ras forms. Here we discuss our approach to target SOS1 to control aberrant Ras signaling in NSCLC and colon cancers. We report the identification of novel potent SOS1-K-Ras disruptors using the SOS1-K-Ras PPI TR-FRET assay. Multiple series have been identified, with a good SAR trend. We have identified low nanomolar potent compounds that translate to modulation of p-ERK in cell based assays in K-Ras mutant cell lines. These compounds exhibited good ADME properties like solubility and metabolic stability. Further profiling of these compounds is ongoing. Citation Format: Sanjita Sasmal, Anuradha Ramanathan, Venkatesham Boorgu. Identification of novel SOS1-K-Ras disruptors for NSCLC and colon cancers with K-Ras mutation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr LB117.