Discovery of novel degradation-related interactions

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods for detecting and identifying protein / protein or protein / small molecule interactions using a bait and prey system. The present invention also relates to bait and prey proteins, small molecules and constructs for use in the methods described herein.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates inter alia to the detection and identification of protein / protein or protein / small molecule interactions, and / or novel small molecules.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 949,026, filed December 17, 2019. The disclosure of that priority application is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0003] Instructions for electronic submission of text files The contents of the electronically submitted text file accompanying this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: Copy of Computer-Readable Form of Sequence Listing (Filename: "ORN-064PC_ST25.txt"; Creation Date: December 7, 2020; File Size: 10,365 bytes). [Background technology]

[0004] Molecular interactions, such as protein / protein interactions and protein / small molecule interactions, are an important part of many, if not all, biological processes. Enhancing or inhibiting molecular interactions can be used as therapeutic strategies, but determining which molecular interactions are clinically relevant is often problematic.

[0005] Our improved understanding of the role of protein / protein interactions (PPIs) has led to the search for chemicals that stabilize or induce protein / protein interactions, rather than those that disrupt them or inhibit their enzymatic activity. Molecular glues are small molecule PPI stabilizers that bind to proteins and alter their molecular surface, thereby allowing them to recruit new proteins or stabilize weak protein / protein interactions. Of particular note among these compounds is the immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide, which interacts with the E3 ligase protein cereblon (CRBN) and activates downstream protein degradation, demonstrating remarkable efficacy in the treatment of various cancers. Additionally, some molecular glues act by specifically binding to structures formed at protein / protein interaction interfaces, stabilizing weak protein / protein interactions. In this case, the molecular glue binds only to structures where both proteins interact, as opposed to the situation outlined here, where molecular glues such as lenalidomide first bind to one protein and then induce or promote complex formation with other proteins.

[0006] Thus, there remains a need for new, more robust methods for detecting molecular interactions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention relates, in part, to a cell-based system for detecting various molecular interactions. In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods that allow for the examination / identification of molecular interactions (e.g., protein / protein, protein / small molecule, and / or small molecule-regulated protein / protein interactions) that are not detectable using standard assays. In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein allow for the identification of clinically relevant or clinically significant protein-protein molecular interactions that can be used to develop treatments for disease.

[0008] In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein include a single bait protein and multiple prey proteins. Such methods may be used to identify molecular interactions between a bait protein and multiple prey proteins or individual prey proteins. In some embodiments, the invention utilizes a mammalian protein / protein interaction trap (MAPPIT) assay (see, for a description of MAPPIT, Eyckerman et al., "Design and application of a cytokine-receptor-based interaction trap," Nat Cell Biol. 2001 Dec;3(12):1114-9; and Lievens et al., "Proteome-scale binary interactomics in human cells," Molecular & Cellular Proteomics 15.12 (2016):3624-3639; these references are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties). However, the performance of the MAPPIT-derived assays described herein is enhanced by the use of small molecules that interact with the bait or prey proteins, as well as by the use of other features in some embodiments. In some embodiments, a small molecule (also referred to herein as a "compound" or "ligand" or "agent") promotes / induces a molecular interaction between the bait and prey proteins. In embodiments, the small molecule is a chemical entity that is not a hybrid ligand. In embodiments, the small molecule is a single chemical entity. In embodiments, the small molecule does not have a linker. In embodiments, the small molecule interacts directly with only one of the bait or prey proteins. In embodiments, the small molecule is a chemical entity that is a hybrid ligand comprising one or more of a CRBN-binding molecule, a PEG linker, and a small molecule.

[0009] In various embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for detecting molecular interactions, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell having a ligand-based chimeric receptor, The chimeric receptor is (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of the first receptor or the second receptor, having an intracellular E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait protein fused thereto; wherein the transmembrane domain and / or intracellular domain of the second receptor comprises a mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription) recruitment; transmembrane and intracellular domains, Including, providing cells; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, The receptor fragment is a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site. To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; In an embodiment, binding of a small molecule to an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit promotes binding to a prey protein and promotes formation of a protein complex including a scaffold protein, the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit complexed with the small molecule, and the prey protein.

[0010] In some embodiments, the prey protein is fused to a receptor fragment. In some embodiments, the prey protein is fused to the N-terminus or C-terminus of the receptor fragment. In some embodiments, the prey protein is fused to gp130 or a fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the prey protein is fused to the N-terminus or C-terminus of gp130 or a fragment thereof.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first receptor and the second receptor are the same receptor.

[0012] In an embodiment, the E3 ligase substrate is endogenous or expressed by a transgene.

[0013] In various embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for detecting molecular interactions, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell having a ligand-based chimeric receptor, The chimeric receptor is (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of the first receptor or the second receptor, having a scaffold protein fused thereto; wherein the transmembrane domain and / or intracellular domain of the second receptor comprises a mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription) recruitment; transmembrane and intracellular domains, Including, providing cells; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, The receptor fragment is a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site. To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; In an embodiment, the scaffold protein interacts with an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit, and the complex between the scaffold protein and the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit interacts with a prey.

[0014] In some embodiments, the interaction between the prey protein and the bait protein recruits the receptor fragment fused to the bait protein to the transmembrane chimeric receptor protein, thereby restoring ligand-dependent transmembrane chimeric receptor signaling and activating STAT molecules. In some embodiments, the cells contain a STAT-responsive reporter gene. In some embodiments, the activated STAT molecules translocate into the nucleus and induce transcription of the STAT-responsive reporter gene; the reporter gene signal may enable detection and / or discovery of molecular interactions.

[0015] In some embodiments, the interaction detected is the recruitment of the bait and / or prey into dimeric, trimeric or higher order protein complexes.

[0016] In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction. In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction mediated by a small molecule (e.g., the method further comprises introducing a small molecule that binds to the prey or bait protein). Specifically, in some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of a small molecule to the prey or bait protein. For example, the method may detect complex formation. In some embodiments, the small molecule induces exposure of a hydrophobic surface or binding site on the prey or bait protein, allowing it to interact with the prey or bait protein. In some embodiments, the small molecule is a molecular glue or a bivalent hybrid ligand molecule (e.g., but not limited to, a PROTAC).

[0017] For example, in some embodiments, the interactions detected include, but are not limited to, E3 ligase proteins in contact with immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), such as thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide, and related compounds, or compounds that bind to equivalent or similar structural pockets and small molecule binding sites such as those typically occupied by IMiD compounds and related compounds.

[0018] In some embodiments, the methods can be used with VHL as the E3 ligase substrate-binding bait protein. Like CRBN, VHL is the substrate-binding subunit of an E3 ligase. Thus, all embodiments relating to E3 ligase as a bait equally apply to VHL as a bait.

[0019] In an embodiment, the method can be used when using an FKBP12 protein or a member of this family as bait instead of an E3 ligase (thus all embodiments relating to an E3 ligase as bait equally apply to an FKBP protein or a member of this family, such as, but not limited to, FKBP12, as bait).

[0020] In some embodiments, the present method allows for the display of bait proteins that are not expressed as receptor fusion proteins. In this case, another protein, i.e., a scaffold protein, capable of interacting with the bait protein is fused to the receptor protein. Interaction of such a protein with the bait forms a protein complex that effectively displays the bait protein as part of the complex. This provides a novel approach to displaying bait proteins in a manner that does not require fusion to a receptor. In one example (and as specifically described herein), another component of an E3 ligase protein complex, such as DDB1 (or another scaffold protein that naturally interacts with the substrate recognition element of an E3 ligase), is fused to the receptor. For DDB1, this protein is expressed as a receptor fusion and then allowed to interact with a separately expressed CRBN bait protein (e.g., as a non-fusion protein), mimicking the natural presentation of the substrate by an E3 ligase. Simultaneous exposure to a molecular glue and multiple prey proteins allows for the discovery of prey proteins that interact with the DDB1 / CRBN complex in response to CRBN binding to a molecular glue such as an IMiD. Similarly, by analogy, in some embodiments, a multi-protein complex comprising a ligand-binding bait protein other than CRBN (such as VHL or other E3 ligase components), where the ligand-binding bait protein is not an expressed receptor fusion protein, can be presented as bait in this manner.

[0021] In some embodiments, the methods can be used to screen multiple prey proteins for interactions with bait and / or compounds.

[0022] In various embodiments, the methods involve, for example, array-type formats in which cDNAs encoding various prey proteins are spotted onto a surface. In various embodiments, the methods involve, for example, cell population-based methods in which a library of prey proteins is introduced into cells so that, on average, each cell expresses a single prey. In such embodiments, the encoding cDNAs are identified when they interact with a compound and / or bait, revealing the interaction. In embodiments, such identification utilizes FACS or microfluidic separation.

[0023] In some embodiments, the methods can be used to screen a plurality of compounds (e.g., a compound library) for interactions with a prey protein and / or a bait protein. In embodiments where the compounds do not contain linkers (e.g., are not hybrid ligands), the methods allow for screening without potential interference with the compound's interacting moieties due to the addition of a linker.

[0024] In some embodiments, the methods can be used with VHL as an E3 ligase substrate-binding bait protein. Like CRBN, VHL is the substrate-binding subunit of an E3 ligase (thus, all embodiments relating to E3 ligase as a bait equally apply to VHL as a bait).

[0025] In some embodiments, the method can be used when, instead of an E3 ligase, an FKBP or a member of this family is used as the bait that is not a receptor fusion (thus, all embodiments relating to an E3 ligase as the bait that is not a receptor fusion equally apply to an FKBP or a member of this family, e.g., FKBP12, as the bait). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1A]A non-limiting schematic illustrating the present MAPPIT derivative is shown. In Figure 1A, an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait protein ("B") is fused to the C-terminus of a chimeric receptor. This chimeric receptor contains, for example, the extracellular portion of a type I cytokine receptor ("CYT") and the transmembrane and intracellular domains of a receptor engineered by mutagenesis to be defective in STAT recruitment. This chimeric receptor is signaling-deficient. When a prey protein ("P") fused to a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site is coexpressed, the receptor complex functionally complements and, in some cases, restores STAT signaling upon cytokine ligand stimulation (L). STAT molecules are activated and translocate to the nucleus, inducing transcription of a STAT-responsive reporter gene. Figure 1B is a schematic similar to Figure 1A, but illustrates the present MAPPIT derivative, including presenting the bait protein in a form other than a receptor fusion. The shaded segments represent scaffold proteins. [Figure 1B] A non-limiting schematic illustrating the present MAPPIT derivative is shown. In Figure 1A, an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait protein ("B") is fused to the C-terminus of a chimeric receptor. This chimeric receptor contains, for example, the extracellular portion of a type I cytokine receptor ("CYT") and the transmembrane and intracellular domains of a receptor engineered by mutagenesis to be defective in STAT recruitment. This chimeric receptor is signaling-deficient. When a prey protein ("P") fused to a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site is coexpressed, the receptor complex functionally complements and, in some cases, restores STAT signaling upon cytokine ligand stimulation (L). STAT molecules are activated and translocate to the nucleus, inducing transcription of a STAT-responsive reporter gene. Figure 1B is a schematic similar to Figure 1A, but illustrates the present MAPPIT derivative, including presenting the bait protein in a form other than a receptor fusion. The shaded segments represent scaffold proteins. [Figure 2A]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2B]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2C]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2D]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2E]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2F]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2G]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2H]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2I]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2J]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2K]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 2L]Evaluation of CRBN-binding compounds for recruitment of select substrates in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. Recruitment induced by CRBN IMiD ligands (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885) of the indicated CRBN substrate panel was evaluated in a MAPPIT-derivative assay. MAPPIT is a modification of a previously reported two-hybrid technology system (Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and is more specifically outlined in Example 1. This assay requires cotransfection of a CRBN bait receptor fusion with a gp130-fused substrate fusion. To monitor their ability to promote CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions, i.e., recruitment of the indicated neosubstrates (IKZF1, GSPT1, GSPT2) and undisclosed substrates, the activity of the test compounds was measured at increasing concentrations (dose-response assay). The results obtained, as can be seen in the figures, reproduce published data obtained by different techniques, such as those described herein. For example, all of the indicated compounds recruit IKZF1, whereas GSPT1 and GSPT2 are only recruited by CC-885. [Figure 3A]Multiple constructs of CRBN MAPPIT-derived receptors enable the detection of compound-dependent substrate interactions. As described in more detail in Example 2, multiple receptor fusion constructs can be used in the MAPPIT-derived assays described herein. A typical fusion protein consists of the extracellular domain of the EPO receptor fused to the transmembrane and intracellular portions of a mutant leptin receptor (Figure 3A-B). However, the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor can be substituted for the EPO receptor extracellular domain, resulting in an assay system activated by leptin but not EPO (Figure 3C-D). Similarly, gp130 fusion proteins can be used as an alternative, provided that a partial gp130 domain can be fused to either the N- or C-terminus of the protein of interest. Here, we used multiple CRBN bait-receptor fusion constructs and substrate gp130 fusions to investigate CC-220- and CC-885-dependent interactions of CRBN with IKZF1 and GSPT1 substrates. Similar results were obtained with the EPO receptor-based CRBN receptor fusion (pSEL-CRBN) and the leptin receptor-based variant (pCLG-CRBN). Additionally, similar data were obtained with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar results are obtained with partial constructs containing multiple substrate proteins, such as IKZF1 isoform 1 versus isoform 7, or GSPT1 isoform 1 (full-length) versus domains 2 and 3. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the next bar to the right represents 0.1 μM, the next bar to the right represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 3B]Multiple constructs of CRBN MAPPIT-derived receptors enable the detection of compound-dependent substrate interactions. As described in more detail in Example 2, multiple receptor fusion constructs can be used in the MAPPIT-derived assays described herein. A typical fusion protein consists of the extracellular domain of the EPO receptor fused to the transmembrane and intracellular portions of a mutant leptin receptor (Figure 3A-B). However, the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor can be substituted for the EPO receptor extracellular domain, resulting in an assay system activated by leptin but not EPO (Figure 3C-D). Similarly, gp130 fusion proteins can be used as an alternative, provided that a partial gp130 domain can be fused to either the N- or C-terminus of the protein of interest. Here, we used multiple CRBN bait-receptor fusion constructs and substrate gp130 fusions to investigate CC-220- and CC-885-dependent interactions of CRBN with IKZF1 and GSPT1 substrates. Similar results were obtained with the EPO receptor-based CRBN receptor fusion (pSEL-CRBN) and the leptin receptor-based variant (pCLG-CRBN). Additionally, similar data were obtained with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar results are obtained with partial constructs containing multiple substrate proteins, such as IKZF1 isoform 1 versus isoform 7, or GSPT1 isoform 1 (full-length) versus domains 2 and 3. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the next bar to the right represents 0.1 μM, the next bar to the right represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 3C]Multiple constructs of CRBN MAPPIT-derived receptors enable the detection of compound-dependent substrate interactions. As described in more detail in Example 2, multiple receptor fusion constructs can be used in the MAPPIT-derived assays described herein. A typical fusion protein consists of the extracellular domain of the EPO receptor fused to the transmembrane and intracellular portions of a mutant leptin receptor (Figure 3A-B). However, the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor can be substituted for the EPO receptor extracellular domain, resulting in an assay system activated by leptin but not EPO (Figure 3C-D). Similarly, gp130 fusion proteins can be used as an alternative, provided that a partial gp130 domain can be fused to either the N- or C-terminus of the protein of interest. Here, we used multiple CRBN bait-receptor fusion constructs and substrate gp130 fusions to investigate CC-220- and CC-885-dependent interactions of CRBN with IKZF1 and GSPT1 substrates. Similar results were obtained with the EPO receptor-based CRBN receptor fusion (pSEL-CRBN) and the leptin receptor-based variant (pCLG-CRBN). Additionally, similar data were obtained with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar results are obtained with partial constructs containing multiple substrate proteins, such as IKZF1 isoform 1 versus isoform 7, or GSPT1 isoform 1 (full-length) versus domains 2 and 3. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the next bar to the right represents 0.1 μM, the next bar to the right represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 3D]Multiple constructs of CRBN MAPPIT-derived receptors enable the detection of compound-dependent substrate interactions. As described in more detail in Example 2, multiple receptor fusion constructs can be used in the MAPPIT-derived assays described herein. A typical fusion protein consists of the extracellular domain of the EPO receptor fused to the transmembrane and intracellular portions of a mutant leptin receptor (Figure 3A-B). However, the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor can be substituted for the EPO receptor extracellular domain, resulting in an assay system activated by leptin but not EPO (Figure 3C-D). Similarly, gp130 fusion proteins can be used as an alternative, provided that a partial gp130 domain can be fused to either the N- or C-terminus of the protein of interest. Here, we used multiple CRBN bait-receptor fusion constructs and substrate gp130 fusions to investigate CC-220- and CC-885-dependent interactions of CRBN with IKZF1 and GSPT1 substrates. Similar results were obtained with the EPO receptor-based CRBN receptor fusion (pSEL-CRBN) and the leptin receptor-based variant (pCLG-CRBN). Additionally, similar data were obtained with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar results are obtained with partial constructs containing multiple substrate proteins, such as IKZF1 isoform 1 versus isoform 7, or GSPT1 isoform 1 (full-length) versus domains 2 and 3. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the next bar to the right represents 0.1 μM, the next bar to the right represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 4]CRBN compound-dependent substrate interactions can be detected using an alternative MAPPIT-derived assay configuration utilizing DDB1 receptor fusions. An alternative CRBN substrate binding assay was tested in which DDB1 was fused to a MAPPIT chimeric receptor construct (pSEL-DDB1) and an unfused CRBN bait protein was coexpressed with either a substrate gp130 fusion protein, IKZF1 (gp130-IKZF1), or an undisclosed substrate protein (gp130-Target X). In the absence of CRBN coexpression ("No CRBN"), no lenalidomide (LEN)-induced signal was observed. However, when an unfused CRBN expression construct was cotransfected, LEN-dependent signals were obtained for both interactions with IKZF1 and Target X. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM LEN, the bar immediately to the right represents 0.1 μM LEN, the bar immediately to the right represents 1 μM LEN, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM LEN. [Figure 5] Coexpression of unfused DDB1 increases the sensitivity of a MAPPIT-derived compound-dependent CRBN substrate interaction assay. We evaluated the effect of cotransfecting an unfused DDB1 expression construct in a MAPPIT-derived assay setup for molecular glue-induced CRBN / IKZF1 interaction. The assay setup was similar to that used in Figure 2A-L, in which a CRBN bait-receptor construct (pSEL-CRBN) and an IKZF1 (isoform 7) gp130 fusion construct were coexpressed in the presence or absence of an additional DDB1 expression vector. Compound concentration-dependent induction of reporter signal was observed for each molecular glue tested (the same panel used in Figure 2A-L) in either the presence or absence of DDB1 coexpression. Interestingly, increased signal was observed at the lower concentrations tested compared to the maximal signal in the DDB1 overexpression setup, indicating greater assay sensitivity than in the absence of DDB1 coexpression. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the bar immediately to the right represents 0.1 μM, the bar immediately to the right of that represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 6]MAPPIT-derived receptor fusions of DDB1 / CRBN enable the detection of compound-dependent substrate recruitment. Here, we investigated an assay configuration in which the DDB1 / CRBN gene fusion was linked to a MAPPIT chimeric receptor construct (pSEL-DDB1-CRBN) and tested against the gp130-IKZF1 (isoform 7) substrate fusion at increasing concentrations of a panel of molecular glues (same panels as those used in Figure 2A-L). This assay configuration also recapitulated compound-induced CRBN / IKZF1 complex formation in a compound dose-dependent manner. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM, the next bar to the right represents 0.1 μM, the next bar to the right represents 1 μM, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM. [Figure 7A] ARV-825 PROTAC-dependent recruitment of the BRD4 substrate to CRBN can be detected by MAPPIT. As tested in Figure 3A-D, alternative MAPPIT-derived CRBN bait receptor fusions containing either the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-CRBN) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-CRBN) were combined with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions of BRD4 (isoform 3). In both assays, ARV-825 PROTAC (a chemical fusion of a CRBN-binding ligand with a BRD4-binding compound) induced a dose-dependent luciferase reporter signal. In each set of histograms, from left to right, the bars represent: 0 μM ARV-825; 0.0003 μM ARV-825; 0.003 μM ARV-825; 0.03 μM ARV-825; 0.3 μM ARV-825; 3 μM ARV-825; and 30 μM ARV-825. [Figure 7B]ARV-825 PROTAC-dependent recruitment of the BRD4 substrate to CRBN can be detected by MAPPIT. As tested in Figure 3A-D, alternative MAPPIT-derived CRBN bait receptor fusions containing either the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-CRBN) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-CRBN) were combined with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions of BRD4 (isoform 3). In both assays, ARV-825 PROTAC (a chemical fusion of a CRBN-binding ligand with a BRD4-binding compound) induced a dose-dependent luciferase reporter signal. In each set of histograms, from left to right, the bars represent: 0 μM ARV-825; 0.0003 μM ARV-825; 0.003 μM ARV-825; 0.03 μM ARV-825; 0.3 μM ARV-825; 3 μM ARV-825; and 30 μM ARV-825. [Figure 8A] The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 8B]The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 8C] The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 8D]The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 8E] The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 8F]The MAPPIT-derived assay allows for the detection of compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A (FKBP12) and MTOR or calcineurin. Compound-dependent interactions between FKBP1A and known target proteins were assessed using an FKBP1A bait receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBP1A) combined with an MTOR (FRB domain) gp130 fusion protein or a calcineurin PPP3CA catalytic subunit gp130 fusion protein. As can be seen, compound-induced recruitment of MTOR is detected with both rapamycin and everolimus. Similarly, FK506- or pimecrolimus-dependent binding of PPP3CA can also be monitored. Notably, in the case of calcineurin binding, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly increases the signaling window. [Figure 9A] Hybrid ligand-induced BRD4 substrate recruitment to VHL can be detected by MAPPIT. Here, VHL bait proteins were fused to MAPPIT-derived chimeric receptor constructs containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-VHL) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-VHL). These constructs were combined with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions of BRD4 (isoform 3) identical to those used in Figure 7 or with a non-fused gp130 negative control construct. Cells expressing both VHL and BRD4 constructs were treated with a range of concentrations of MZ1 (a chemical fusion between VHL and the BRD4 ligand); this resulted in the induction of a dose-dependent MAPPIT signal. No signal was obtained when the non-fused gp130 control construct was tested. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM MZ1, the bar immediately to the right represents 0.1 μM MZ1, the bar immediately to the right represents 1 μM MZ1, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM MZ1. [Figure 9B]Hybrid ligand-induced BRD4 substrate recruitment to VHL can be detected by MAPPIT. Here, VHL bait proteins were fused to MAPPIT-derived chimeric receptor constructs containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-VHL) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-VHL). These constructs were combined with N- or C-terminal gp130 fusions of BRD4 (isoform 3) identical to those used in Figure 7 or with a non-fused gp130 negative control construct. Cells expressing both VHL and BRD4 constructs were treated with a range of concentrations of MZ1 (a chemical fusion between VHL and the BRD4 ligand); this resulted in the induction of a dose-dependent MAPPIT signal. No signal was obtained when the non-fused gp130 control construct was tested. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 μM MZ1, the bar immediately to the right represents 0.1 μM MZ1, the bar immediately to the right represents 1 μM MZ1, and the rightmost bar represents 10 μM MZ1. [Figure 10A]A compound ensemble screen identifies novel molecular glues that enable IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The MAPPIT-derived assay described in Figure 2A-L, which coexpressed a CRBN bait receptor construct (pSEL-CRBN) and an IKZF1 (isoform 7) gp130 fusion construct, was used to screen a ensemble of 96 IMiDs and IMiD-like compounds. In the primary screen, compounds were tested at three doses (low, medium, and high) to determine luciferase reporter signal. The curves shown in Figure 10A-C (left panel) show the luciferase signal frequency distribution for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. The curves for compound-treated samples are bimodal, with the right-shifted peak corresponding to compounds that exhibit higher reporter signal than the DMSO-treated control. The right panel shows dose-response confirmation (hits) for three compounds that demonstrate responsiveness and thus induce IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The signal corresponding to each test concentration in the primary screen is shown as a straight line with a line type corresponding to that used in the dose-response curve (dotted, dashed, or solid line). These sample curves demonstrate that this approach can identify molecular glues over a wide potency range. [Figure 10B]A compound ensemble screen identifies novel molecular glues that enable IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The MAPPIT-derived assay described in Figure 2A-L, which coexpressed a CRBN bait receptor construct (pSEL-CRBN) and an IKZF1 (isoform 7) gp130 fusion construct, was used to screen a ensemble of 96 IMiDs and IMiD-like compounds. In the primary screen, compounds were tested at three doses (low, medium, and high) to determine luciferase reporter signal. The curves shown in Figure 10A-C (left panel) show the luciferase signal frequency distribution for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. The curves for compound-treated samples are bimodal, with the right-shifted peak corresponding to compounds that exhibit higher reporter signal than the DMSO-treated control. The right panel shows dose-response confirmation (hits) for three compounds that demonstrate responsiveness and thus induce IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The signal corresponding to each test concentration in the primary screen is shown as a straight line with a line type corresponding to that used in the dose-response curve (dotted, dashed, or solid line). These sample curves demonstrate that this approach can identify molecular glues over a wide potency range. [Figure 10C]A compound ensemble screen identifies novel molecular glues that enable IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The MAPPIT-derived assay described in Figure 2A-L, which coexpressed a CRBN bait receptor construct (pSEL-CRBN) and an IKZF1 (isoform 7) gp130 fusion construct, was used to screen a ensemble of 96 IMiDs and IMiD-like compounds. In the primary screen, compounds were tested at three doses (low, medium, and high) to determine luciferase reporter signal. The curves shown in Figure 10A-C (left panel) show the luciferase signal frequency distribution for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. The curves for compound-treated samples are bimodal, with the right-shifted peak corresponding to compounds that exhibit higher reporter signal than the DMSO-treated control. The right panel shows dose-response confirmation (hits) for three compounds that demonstrate responsiveness and thus induce IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN. The signal corresponding to each test concentration in the primary screen is shown as a straight line with a line type corresponding to that used in the dose-response curve (dotted, dashed, or solid line). These sample curves demonstrate that this approach can identify molecular glues over a wide potency range. [Figure 11A]Novel molecular glue-inducible CRBN neosubstrates were detected by screening an ORF cDNA library. Here, a MAPPIT-derived assay was utilized in a cell microarray-based screening format to screen a human ORF (eome) cDNA library for targets recruited to CRBN in response to CC-220, a known IMiD drug and CRBN ligand. Intracellular protein and small molecule interactions were assayed within cell clusters in an arrayed format. Each spot on the cell microarray corresponds to a cell cluster expressing a single test ORF / protein candidate for ligand-induced (in this case, CC-220-induced) interaction with CRBN. Positive interactions are measured as an increase in cellular fluorescence. Fluorescence intensity data from the cell microarray screen across and for multiple individual ORF / target protein candidates are shown in dot plots. The x-axis represents particle number, and the y-axis represents the integrated intensity for each cell cluster in the microarray. As can be seen, significant signal induction is observed for a number of ORF cDNAs. Dose-response curves were generated for four ORF cDNAs that responded to CC-220 and therefore represented proteins recruited to CRBN by the CC-220 molecular glue (indicated by arrows) to confirm CC-220 dose-dependent binding to CRBN. These examples demonstrate that this MAPPIT-derived screening approach allows for the identification of novel molecular glue-induced substrates of CRBN. [Figure 11B]Novel molecular glue-inducible CRBN neosubstrates were detected by screening an ORF cDNA library. Here, a MAPPIT-derived assay was utilized in a cell microarray-based screening format to screen a human ORF (eome) cDNA library for targets recruited to CRBN in response to CC-220, a known IMiD drug and CRBN ligand. Intracellular protein and small molecule interactions were assayed within cell clusters in an arrayed format. Each spot on the cell microarray corresponds to a cell cluster expressing a single test ORF / protein candidate for ligand-induced (in this case, CC-220-induced) interaction with CRBN. Positive interactions are measured as an increase in cellular fluorescence. Fluorescence intensity data from the cell microarray screen across and for multiple individual ORF / target protein candidates are shown in dot plots. The x-axis represents particle number, and the y-axis represents the integrated intensity for each cell cluster in the microarray. As can be seen, significant signal induction is observed for a number of ORF cDNAs. Dose-response curves were generated for four ORF cDNAs that responded to CC-220 and therefore represented proteins recruited to CRBN by the CC-220 molecular glue (indicated by arrows) to confirm CC-220 dose-dependent binding to CRBN. These examples demonstrate that this MAPPIT-derived screening approach allows for the identification of novel molecular glue-induced substrates of CRBN. [Figure 12A]Hybrid ligand compound screening identifies known and novel ligands for a target protein of interest. A MAPPIT-derived assay was used to screen a collection of trimethoprim (TMP)-fused hybrid ligand molecules for binding to a target protein of interest. This assay takes advantage of the high affinity of TMP for DHFR to link the TMP hybrid ligand to a DHFR receptor fusion and present the TMP-linked compound as bait. In Figure 12A, a MAPPIT-derived assay was used to coexpress a DHFR receptor fusion (in this case, a receptor fusion protein containing the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor; pCLG-DHFR) with a gp130 fusion of the estrogen receptor (ESR1) to screen a diverse set of 320 hybrid ligands (each containing a diverse collection of compounds linked to TMP via a PEG linker) mixed with a TMP fusion of tamoxifen (TAM), a known ligand of ESR1. Compounds were screened at a single dose, and luciferase reporter signals were determined. The curves shown in Figure 12A (left panel) show the luciferase signal frequency distributions for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. As expected for a diverse set, the distributions overlapped significantly, except for a few compounds for which the compound-treated signal was higher than the DMSO control signal. One of these hits matched TMP-TAM (shown by the solid line on the frequency curve). Dose-response analysis confirmed the signal obtained for TMP-TAM binding to ESR1, with an EC50 in the low nanomolar range, as reported in the literature. A similar screening setup was used to identify novel ligands for MDM4, a validated cancer target protein. The hybrid ligand screen shown in Figure 12B yielded a single hit, which could be confirmed by a dose-response chase experiment. These examples demonstrate that the MAPPIT-derived assay used here can be used to identify novel ligands for specific target proteins of interest. [Figure 12B]Hybrid ligand compound screening identifies known and novel ligands for a target protein of interest. A MAPPIT-derived assay was used to screen a collection of trimethoprim (TMP)-fused hybrid ligand molecules for binding to a target protein of interest. This assay takes advantage of the high affinity of TMP for DHFR to link the TMP hybrid ligand to a DHFR receptor fusion and present the TMP-linked compound as bait. In Figure 12A, a MAPPIT-derived assay was used to coexpress a DHFR receptor fusion (in this case, a receptor fusion protein containing the extracellular domain of the leptin receptor; pCLG-DHFR) with a gp130 fusion of the estrogen receptor (ESR1) to screen a diverse set of 320 hybrid ligands (each containing a diverse collection of compounds linked to TMP via a PEG linker) mixed with a TMP fusion of tamoxifen (TAM), a known ligand of ESR1. Compounds were screened at a single dose, and luciferase reporter signals were determined. The curves shown in Figure 12A (left panel) show the luciferase signal frequency distributions for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. As expected for a diverse set, the distributions overlapped significantly, except for a few compounds for which the compound-treated signal was higher than the DMSO control signal. One of these hits matched TMP-TAM (shown by the solid line on the frequency curve). Dose-response analysis confirmed the signal obtained for TMP-TAM binding to ESR1, with an EC50 in the low nanomolar range, as reported in the literature. A similar screening setup was used to identify novel ligands for MDM4, a validated cancer target protein. The hybrid ligand screen shown in Figure 12B yielded a single hit, which could be confirmed by a dose-response chase experiment. These examples demonstrate that the MAPPIT-derived assay used here can be used to identify novel ligands for specific target proteins of interest. [Figure 13A]Identification of novel hybrid ligand targets by array-based screening of ORF cDNA libraries. Here, we applied the cell microarray-based screening approach described in Figure 11A-B to screen a human ORF(eome) cDNA library for targets of TMP-fusion hybrid ligands using a MAPPIT-derived assay described in Figure 12A-B. The target compound (here, an undisclosed compound with a potent antitumor phenotype and unknown target) was presented as a TMP hybrid ligand bait linked to a DHFR receptor fusion. Interaction of the arrayed ORF cDNA with the protein encoded by the gp130 fusion was detected as an increase in cellular fluorescence at the corresponding spot on the array. The dot plots shown represent fluorescence data from cell microarray screening across and for multiple individual ORF / target protein candidates. The X-axis represents particle number, and the Y-axis represents the integrated intensity of each cell cluster on the microarray. As can be seen, a strong signal was observed for specific ORF cDNAs (indicated by arrows), and this interaction was confirmed by dose-response analysis. This data demonstrates that the MAPPIT derivative screening approach described here allows for the identification of novel targets for ligands using TMP-derivatized ligand fusion molecules. [Figure 13B]Identification of novel hybrid ligand targets by array-based screening of ORF cDNA libraries. Here, we applied the cell microarray-based screening approach described in Figure 11A-B to screen a human ORF(eome) cDNA library for targets of TMP-fusion hybrid ligands using a MAPPIT-derived assay described in Figure 12A-B. The target compound (here, an undisclosed compound with a potent antitumor phenotype and unknown target) was presented as a TMP hybrid ligand bait linked to a DHFR receptor fusion. Interaction of the arrayed ORF cDNA with the protein encoded by the gp130 fusion was detected as an increase in cellular fluorescence at the corresponding spot on the array. The dot plots shown represent fluorescence data from cell microarray screening across and for multiple individual ORF / target protein candidates. The X-axis represents particle number, and the Y-axis represents the integrated intensity of each cell cluster on the microarray. As can be seen, a strong signal was observed for specific ORF cDNAs (indicated by arrows), and this interaction was confirmed by dose-response analysis. This data demonstrates that the MAPPIT derivative screening approach described here allows for the identification of novel targets for ligands using TMP-derivatized ligand fusion molecules. [Figure 14]Identification of rapamycin-induced binding between FKBP proteins and MTOR. Different members of the FKBP protein family (FKBP1A / FKBP12, FKBP3, FKBP4, and FKBP5) were evaluated in a MAPPIT-derived assay for the recruitment of MTOR (FRB domain); here, FKBP proteins were expressed as MAPPIT-receptor fusions (pSEL-FKBPx) containing the extracellular domain of the Epo receptor, and MTOR (FRB) was fused to gp130. As can be seen, a rapamycin dose-dependent signal was obtained for each of the FKBP proteins tested, consistent with previous reports. In each set of histograms, the leftmost bar represents 0 nM rapamycin, the next bar to the right represents 1 nM rapamycin, the next bar to the right represents 10 nM rapamycin, and the rightmost bar represents 100 nM rapamycin. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The present disclosure is based, in part, on the discovery of cell-based systems and methods that enable the examination of molecular interactions (e.g., protein / protein, protein / small molecule, and / or protein / protein interactions regulated by small molecules) that are not detectable using standard assays.

[0028] In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting molecular interactions, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell comprising a ligand-based chimeric receptor, The chimeric receptor comprises: (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of the first receptor or the second receptor, having an intracellular E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait protein fused thereto; wherein the transmembrane and / or intracellular domains of the receptor construct comprise mutations that reduce or eliminate STAT recruitment. the transmembrane and intracellular domains of said first or second receptor; Including, providing cells; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, The receptor fragment is a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site. To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; Includes.

[0029] In various embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for detecting molecular interactions, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell having a ligand-based chimeric receptor, The chimeric receptor is (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of a first receptor or a second receptor, and having a scaffold protein fused thereto; wherein the transmembrane and / or intracellular domains of the receptor construct comprise mutations that reduce or eliminate STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) recruitment. Transmembrane and intracellular domains Includes; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, The receptor fragment is a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site. To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; In one embodiment, the scaffold protein interacts with an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit, and the complex between the scaffold protein and the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit interacts with a prey.

[0030] In some aspects, the present methods provide for a method of detecting molecular interactions, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell comprising a ligand-based chimeric receptor, The chimeric receptor comprises: (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of such a first or second receptor, having a protein (or proteins) fused thereto, The intracellular E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit is capable of interacting with the bait protein, wherein the transmembrane and / or intracellular domains of the receptor construct comprise mutations that reduce or eliminate STAT recruitment. transmembrane and intracellular domains, Includes; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, The receptor fragment is a receptor fragment containing a functional STAT recruitment site. To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; In an embodiment, the bait protein is associated with a scaffold protein and an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait. In an embodiment, the bait protein is fused directly to the transmembrane protein.

[0031] In some embodiments, interaction between a prey protein and a bait protein in a system such as those described herein results in the formation of a protein complex containing a receptor fragment fused to the prey protein. Recruitment of such receptor fragments to the complex positions them as available substrates for receptor-associated JAK kinases (e.g., JAK2), thereby restoring ligand-dependent receptor signaling and activation of STAT molecules. In some embodiments, the cells contain a STAT-responsive reporter gene. In some embodiments, activated STAT molecules translocate into the nucleus and induce transcription of the STAT-responsive reporter gene, and in some cases, the reporter gene signal may enable detection and / or discovery of molecular interactions.

[0032] In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction. In some embodiments, the bait and prey are both proteins.

[0033] The present invention also includes analyzing compound libraries. In embodiments, a bait binds to a compound, and this bait / compound complex may interact with a prey. Thus, in embodiments, the present method allows for the detection and / or discovery of novel compound-mediated protein / protein interactions and / or novel protein / compound interactions. In embodiments, the present method allows for the detection and / or discovery of novel compounds that act as molecular glues. In embodiments, the present method allows for the detection and / or discovery of novel compounds that convert a weak bait / prey interaction into a strong bait / prey interaction.

[0034] In some embodiments, the bait is or comprises a protein that regulates the ubiquitin proteasome system. In some embodiments, the bait is or comprises an E3 ligase protein or a protein that regulates an E3 ligase protein. In some embodiments, the bait is or comprises an E3 ligase protein or a protein that regulates an E3 ligase protein. In some embodiments, the bait is or comprises a cullin RING ligase (CRL) protein or a protein that regulates a CRL protein. In various embodiments, the bait is or comprises a CRL4 protein or a protein that regulates a CRL4 protein. In some embodiments, the bait is or comprises a DDB1-CUL4-associated factor (DCAF) protein or a protein that regulates DCAF.

[0035] In some embodiments, the bait is or includes one or more of cereblon (CRBN) and von Hippel Lindau (VHL).

[0036] In embodiments, CRBN or VHL is fused to a transmembrane domain as described herein. In embodiments, CRBN or VHL is not fused to a transmembrane domain as described herein; e.g., acts as bait when interacting with a scaffold protein fused to a transmembrane domain as described herein.

[0037] In an embodiment, the bait is an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit.

[0038] In an embodiment, the E3 ligase substrate binding subunit is selected from the proteins encoded by the following genes: AMFR, ANAPC11, APG16L, ARIH1, ARIH2, ARPC1A, ARPC1B, ASB2, ASB2, ATG16L1, BAF250, BARD1, BIRC2, BIRC3, BIRC4, BIRC7, BMI1, BRAP, BRCA1, bTrCP, CBL, CBLB, CBLC, CBLL1, CCIN, CCIN, CCNB1IP1, CRBN, CHFR, CHIP, CNOT4, COP1, CSA, DCAF1, DCAF10, DCAF11, DCAF12, DCAF13, DCAF14, DCAF15, DCAF16, DC AF17、DCAF19、DCAF2、DCAF3、DCAF4、DCAF5、DCAF6、DCAF7、DCAF8、DCAF9、Dda1、DDB2、DET1、DNAI2、DTX3、DZIP3、E6AP、EDD、EED、ENC1、EN1、FANCL、FBXL 1、FBXL10、FBXL11、FBXL12、FBXL13、FBXL14、FBXL15、FBXL16、FBXL17、FBXL18、FBXL19、FBXL20、FBXL21、FBXL22、FBXL3、FBXL4、FBXL5、FBXL7、FBXL8、FBXL XO1、FBXO10、FBXO11、FBXO12、FBXO13、FBXO14、FBXO15、FBXO16、FBXO17、FBXO18、FBXO19、FBXO2、FBXO20、FBXO21、FBXO22、FBXO3、FBXO4、FBXO5、FBXO6 FBXO7、FBXO8、FBXW1、FBXW10、FBXW11、FBXW12、FBXW5、FBXW7、FBXW8、FBXW9、FEM1A、FEM1B、FEM1C、GAN、GAN、GNB1、GNB2、GNB5、GRWD1、GTF2H2、GTF3C2、H ACE1、HECTD1、HECTD2、HECTD3、HERC1、HERC2、HERC3、HERC4、HERC5、HERC6、HLTF、HOIP、HUWE1、IBRDC2、IBRDC3、IFRG15、IPP、IPP、ITCH、IVNS1ABP、IVNS 1ABP、KATNB1、KBTBD10、KBTBD10、KBTBD11、KBTBD11、KBTBD12、KBTBD12、KBTBD13、KBTBD13、KBTBD2、KBTBD2、KBTBD3、KBTBD3、KBTBD4、KBTBD4、KBTBD5、KBTBD5、KBTBD6、KBTBD6、KBTBD7、KBTBD7、KBTBD8、KBTBD8、KCTD5、KEAP、KE AP1、KIAA0317、KIAA0614、KLHDC5、KLHL1、KLHL1、KLHL10、KLHL10、KLHL11、K LHL11、KLHL12、KLHL12、KLHL13、KLHL13、KLHL14、KLHL14、KLHL15、KLHL15、 KLHL17、KLHL17、KLHL18、KLHL18、KLHL2、KLHL2、KLHL20、KLHL21、KLHL21、KL HL22、KLHL22、KLHL23、KLHL23、KLHL24、KLHL24、KLHL25、KLHL25、KLHL26、K LHL26、KLHL28、KLHL28、KLHL29、KLHL29、KLHL3、KLHL3、KLHL30、KLHL30、KLH L31, KLHL31, KLHL32, KLHL32, KLHL33, KLHL33, KLHL34, KLHL34, KLHL35, KLHL35, KLHL36, KLHL36, KLHL38, KLHL38, KLHL4, KLHL4, KLHL5, KLHL5, KLHL6, KLHL6, KLHL7, KLHL7, KLHL8, KLHL8, KLHL9, KLHL9, LINCR, LNX1, LRR1, LRRC41, LRSAM1, LZTR1, LZTR1, MAGEA1, MAGE-A1, MAGEA2, MAGE-A2, MAGEA3, MAGE -A3、MAGEA6、MAGE-A6、MAGEB18、MAGE-B18、MAGEB2、MAGE-B2、MAGEC2、MAGE -C2、MALIN、MAP3K1、MARCH1、MARCH11、MARCH2、MARCH4、MARCH5、MARCH6、MAR CH7、MARCH8、MARCH9、MDM2、MDM4、MEX、MGRN1、MIB1、MIB2、MID1、MKRN1、MNA T1、MUF1、MULAN、MURF、MYCBP2、MYLIP、Nedd4、NEDD4L、NEDL1、NEDL2、NEURL、 NEURL2、NLE1、NUP43、OSTM1、PAFAH1B1、PARC、PARK2、PCGF1、PCGF2、PDZRN3、 PEX10、PEX7、PJA1、PJA2、POC1A、PPIL2、PRAME、PRPF19、PWP1、RACK1、RAD18、RAE1、RAG1、RBBP4、RBBP5、RBBP6、RBBP7、RBCK1、RBX1、RCHY1、RFFL、RFPL4A 、RFWD2、RING1、RNF103、RNF11、RNF111、RNF114、RNF12、RNF123、RNF125、RNF 128、RNF13、RNF130、RNF133、RNF135、RNF138、RNF139、RNF14、RNF144A、RNF 167、RNF168、RNF180、RNF181、RNF182、RNF185、RNF19、RNF2、RNF20、RNF20、R NF216、RNF25、RNF34、RNF4、RNF40、RNF41、RNF43、RNF43、RNF5、RNF6、RNF7、 RNF8、RNF85、RPTOR、SCAP、SH3RF1、SHPRH、SIAH1、SIAH2、SMU1、SMURF1、SMUR F2、SOCS1、SOCS3、SPOP、SPSB1、SPSB1、SPSB2、SPSB2、SPSB4、SPSB4、STXBP5 L、SYVN1、TAF5L、TBL1Y、THOC3、TLE1、TLE2、TLE3、TOPORS、TRAF2、TRAF6、TRA F7、TRAIP、TRIAD3、TRIM1、TRIM10、TRIM11、TRIM12、TRIM13、TRIM14、TRIM1 5、TRIM16、TRIM17、TRIM18、TRIM2、TRIM21、TRIM22、TRIM23、TRIM24、TRIM25 、TRIM26、TRIM27、TRIM28、TRIM29、TRIM29、TRIM3、TRIM31、TRIM32、TRIM33 、TRIM36、TRIM37、TRIM39、TRIM40、TRIM41、TRIM44、TRIM45、TRIM47、TRIM5、 TRIM50、TRIM52、TRIM54、TRIM55、TRIM58、TRIM59、TRIM62、TRIM65、TRIM66 、TRIM7、TRIM71、TRIM8、TRIM9、TRIP12、TRPC4AP、TSSC1、UBE3B、UBE3C、UBE4 A、UBE4B、UBOX5、UBR1、UBR2、UBR3、UBR4、UHRF1、UHRF2、VHL、VPS18、WDR12、W DR23、WDR26、WDR3、WDR31、WDR37、WDR39、WDR4、WDR47、WDR48、WDR5、WDR51B、WDR53, WDR57, WDR59, WDR5B, WDR61, WDR76, WDR77, WDR82, WDR83, WDR86, WSB1, WSB2, WWP1, WWP2, ZNF294, ZNF313, ZNF364, ZNRF1, ZNRF2, ZYG11A, ZYG11B, or ZYG11BL.

[0039] In embodiments, the E3 ligase substrate binding subunit is CRBN or VHL.

[0040] In an embodiment, the scaffold protein interacts with an E3 ligase substrate binding subunit, and the complex between the scaffold protein and the E3 ligase substrate binding subunit interacts with a prey.

[0041] In embodiments, the scaffold is selected from: BIRC6, CUL3, DDB1, ELOB, ELOC, RBX1, SKP1, UBCH5A, UBE2A, UBE2B, UBE2B2, UBE2C, UBE2D1, UBE2D2, UBE2D3, UBE2D4, UBE2E1, UBE2E2, UBE2E3, UBE2F, UBE2G1, UBE2G2, UBE2H, UBE2J1, UBE2J2, UBE2K, UBE2L3, UBE2L6, UBE2M, UBE2N, UBE2NL, UBE2O, UBE2Q1, UBE2Q2, UBE2QL, UBE2R1, UBE2R2, UBE2S, UBE2T, UBE2U, UBE2V1, UBE2V1, UBE2V2, and UBE2W.

[0042] In some embodiments, the scaffold protein is selected from damaged DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1), cullin 4A (CUL4A), and regulator of cullin 1 (ROC1).

[0043] In various embodiments, the bait comprises one or more of cereblon (CRBN), damaged DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1), cullin 4A (CUL4A), regulator of cullin 1 (ROC1), and von Hippel Lindau (VHL).

[0044] In some embodiments, the prey is a substrate and / or neo-substrate of CRBN. In embodiments, the substrate and / or neo-substrate of CRBN comprises a b-hairpin a-turn with an i-residue comprising a side chain with a hydrogen bond acceptor, such as an Asx or ST motif, with hydrogen bonds between the side chain of i and the backbone NH of i+3 and between the backbone carbonyl oxygen of i and the backbone NH of i+4. In embodiments, the i+4 residue is glycine (including, but not limited to, GSPT1, CK1a). In embodiments, the substrate and / or neo-substrate of CRBN comprises a b-hairpin a-turn with residues i and i+3 being cysteine ​​and residue i+4 being glycine. The two Cys residues bind to zinc ions to reinforce the turn formation (including, but not limited to, IKZF1, ZnF692, and all substrates reported in the following reference: "Defining the human C2H2 zinc finger degrome targeted by thalidomide analogs through CRBN," Sievers et al., Science Vol. 362, Issue 6414, DOI: 1 0.1126 / science.aat0572 (2018); this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). In embodiments, the substrate and / or neosubstrate of CRBN has a "pseudo-loop," a b-hairpin b-turn containing a glycine at position i+3. The turn structure can be reinforced by a hydrogen bond between the hydrogen bond acceptor of the side chain of i-1 and the carbonyl of the i+3 glycine.

[0045] In embodiments, CRBN refers to polypeptides comprising the amino acid sequence of any CRBN, such as a human CRBN protein (e.g., human CRBN isoform 1 (GenBank Accession No.: NP_057386); or human CRBN isoform 2 (GenBank Accession No.: NP_001166953), and related polypeptides (including SNP variants thereof); each of the above references is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Related CRBN polypeptides include allelic variants (e.g., SNP variants); splice variants; fragments; derivatives; substitution, deletion, and insertion variants; fusion polypeptides; and species homologs, which, in certain embodiments, retain CRBN activity and / or are sufficient to raise an anti-CRBN immune response.

[0046] In some embodiments, the prey is one or more of Ikaros (IKZF1), Helios (IKZF2), Aiolos (IKZF3), Eos (IKZF4), Pegasus (IKZF5), SALL4, CSNK1A, CK1a, and ZFP91. In various embodiments, the prey is one or more of Ikaros (IKZF1), Helios (IKZF2), Aiolos (IKZF3), Eos (IKZF4), Pegasus (IKZF5), SALL4, CSNK1A, CK1a, and ZFP91. In some embodiments, the prey is one or more of Ikaros (IKZF1), Helios (IKZF2), Aiolos (IKZF3), Eos (IKZF4), Pegasus (IKZF5), SALL4, CSNK1A, CK1a, and ZFP91.

[0047] In some embodiments, the method includes one or more E3 ligase substrate-binding subunits (including, but not limited to, CRBN and VHL) as a bait (or a bait associated with a scaffolding protein, such as DDB1, CUL4A, and ROC1, and in contact with CRBN or VHL), and contacts the bait with a compound described herein (e.g., a compound (e.g., an IMiD) that binds to one or more E3 ligase substrate-binding subunits (including, but not limited to, CRBN and VHL)) to discover protein preys that interact with the bait because the bait is regulated by the compound. For example, the method identifies preys that contact and interact with the bait that is regulated by the compound. In some embodiments, interaction with the bait results in recruitment and / or degradation of the prey. In such embodiments, including but not limited to, the prey does not directly interact with the compound.

[0048] In some embodiments, the methods allow for the identification of novel substrates or neo-substrates of CRBN.

[0049] In some embodiments, the method includes one or more E3 ligase substrate-binding subunits (including, but not limited to, CRBN and VHL) as a bait (or a bait associated with a scaffolding protein, such as DDB1, CUL4A, and ROC1, and contacting CRBN or VHL), and contacts the bait with a test compound in the presence of a protein prey that interacts with the bait (e.g., including, but not limited to, a substrate or neo-substrate of the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit) to detect novel protein / protein interactions regulated by small molecules. For example, the method identifies a compound that can interact with an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait in a complex with such a bait, including a substrate or neo-substrate of the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit. For example, the method identifies a compound as being capable of interacting with an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit bait and modulating the recruitment and / or ubiquitination and / or degradation of a second protein (e.g., a prey, e.g., a substrate or neo-substrate of the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit, but not limited to).

[0050] In some embodiments, the bait protein of the present invention is an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit. E3 ligases (also called ubiquitin ligases) are a diverse group of proteins that functionally recognize target proteins and mediate the covalent bond between the target protein and a ubiquitin moiety. These proteins provide target specificity and uniqueness to the ubiquitination process. E3 ligases recruit ubiquitin-loaded E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes, which recognize the target protein and either assist or directly catalyze the transfer of ubiquitin from the E2 to the protein substrate.

[0051] The methods of the present invention can be carried out using any E3 ligase known in the art. In some embodiments, an E3 ligase of the present invention comprises a protein that interacts with both an E2 ubiquitin thioester and a substrate protein and catalyzes efficient ubiquitin transfer to a lysine residue (polyubiquitin chain initiation) of a target protein or efficient ubiquitin transfer of an elongated ubiquitin chain to ubiquitin. In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention involve a subunit of an E3 ligase. An E3 ligase subunit of the present invention can be a functional E3 ligase or a non-functional portion of a functional E3 ligase.

[0052] In some embodiments, the E3 ligase or subunit thereof of the present invention is selected from cereblon (CRBN) and von Hippel Lindau (VHL).

[0053] In one embodiment, the E3 ligase of the present invention is cereblon or a subunit thereof.

[0054] In some embodiments, the scaffolding protein is damaged DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1), cullin 4A (CUL4A), regulator of cullin 1 (ROC1), SKP1, SKP1 interacting partner (SKIP2), beta-transducin repeat-containing protein (β-TrCP), double minute 4 protein (MDM4), X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), DDB1 and CUL4-associated factor 15 (DCAF15), and WD repeat domain 12 (WDR12) or a subunit thereof.

[0055] In some embodiments, the method allows for the identification of novel interaction partners, e.g., substrates or neo-substrates of proteins that bind to a compound, where the protein has three tryptophan residues in a cage-like configuration that can interact with the glutarimide ring of the compound, e.g., via hydrogen bonding. In some embodiments, the interaction partner (e.g., substrate and / or neo-substrate) has a surface β-hairpin loop, which may have three backbone hydrogen bond acceptors at the tip of a turn followed by a glycine residue. In some embodiments, the interaction partner (e.g., substrate and / or neo-substrate) has a degron motif (see Meszaros et al., Sci Signal 2017:10, 470; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0056] In some embodiments, the bait is a protein having three tryptophan residues in a cage-like configuration that can interact with the glutarimide ring of the compound (e.g., an immunomodulatory drug or immunomodulatory imide drug (IMiD)), e.g., by hydrogen bonding.

[0057] In some embodiments, the prey (e.g., substrate and / or neo-substrate) has a surface β-hairpin loop, which may have three backbone hydrogen bond acceptors at the tip of a turn followed by a glycine residue. In some embodiments, the prey (e.g., substrate and / or neo-substrate) has a degron motif (see Meszaros et al., Sci Signal 2017:10, 470; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0058] In various embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure identify protein / protein interactions mediated by binding of a small molecule to a prey protein or bait. In some embodiments, the methods further comprise introducing a small molecule that binds to the prey protein or bait protein. In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction mediated by binding of a small molecule to the prey protein or bait protein.

[0059] In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is two or more protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of a small molecule with a prey protein or a bait protein. In one embodiment, the small molecule binds to the bait protein, and this binding causes a change in the bait protein that allows the bait protein to bind to the prey protein after binding with the small molecule. For example, in one embodiment, the binding of the small molecule to the bait protein causes a conformational change in the bait protein; e.g., the binding site of the bait protein becomes accessible so that the prey protein can bind to the bait protein. In another embodiment, the binding of the small molecule to the bait protein opens or exposes a hydrophobic binding site within the bait protein, allowing the prey protein to bind to the hydrophobic binding site of the bait protein.

[0060] In other embodiments, the small molecule binds to the prey protein, and this binding causes a change in the prey protein that allows the prey protein to interact / bind with the bait protein. In some embodiments, binding of the small molecule to the prey protein causes a conformational change in the prey protein that makes the binding site of the prey protein accessible to the bait protein, allowing the bait protein to bind to the prey protein. In other embodiments, binding of the small molecule to the prey protein opens or exposes a hydrophobic binding site within the prey protein, allowing the bait protein to bind to the hydrophobic binding site of the prey protein.

[0061] In yet another embodiment, the method includes a small molecule that does not bind to either the bait protein or the prey protein, but does bind to a complex between the bait and prey proteins. For example, the interaction between the bait and prey protein can reconstitute or form a small molecule binding site. In some embodiments, the small molecule binding site is present in the bait protein and is exposed upon complex formation between the bait and prey proteins. In other embodiments, the small molecule binding site is present in the prey protein and is exposed upon complex formation between the bait and prey proteins. In some embodiments, the interaction between the bait and prey proteins exposes an existing small molecule binding site, or the interaction induces the formation of a small molecule binding site.

[0062] In some embodiments, the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to the prey or bait protein is a direct bond between the prey or bait protein and the small molecule at a protein / protein interface or within the protein. For example, in one embodiment, the small molecule can bind to the bait protein directly to form a bait protein / small molecule complex. In another embodiment, the small molecule can bind to the prey protein directly to form a prey protein / small molecule complex.

[0063] The present invention also contemplates molecular interactions in which the small molecule, prey protein, and bait protein simultaneously interact with each other. For example, in one embodiment, the small molecule directly binds to both the bait protein and the prey protein. In some embodiments, the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to the prey protein or bait protein is mediated by allosteric modification of the protein surface of the prey protein or bait protein. In some embodiments, the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to the bait protein is mediated by allosteric modification of the protein surface of the bait protein.

[0064] In some embodiments, the small molecule induces a hydrophobic surface exposure of the bait protein, thereby allowing it to interact with the prey protein. In some embodiments, the small molecule induces a hydrophobic surface exposure of the prey protein, thereby allowing it to interact with the bait protein.

[0065] In some embodiments, the small molecule is a molecular glue. Molecular glue can also be a molecule that promotes the non-natural association of proteins, which can produce therapeutic effects. In some embodiments, the molecular glue is a molecule that two small molecules are linked together by a linker. For example, in some embodiments, the compound is a hybrid ligand that includes a compound that interacts with one of CRBN, VHL, and FKBP.

[0066] In other embodiments, the molecular glue is a single small molecule with no linkers connecting the small molecule to other small molecules. In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is complex formation. In some embodiments, the molecular interaction is a small molecule / protein interaction.

[0067] In some embodiments, the small molecule or compound is an immunomodulator. In some embodiments, the compound is a glutamic acid derivative containing a glutarimide ring and optionally containing a phthalimide ring. In some embodiments, the phthalimide ring is chemically modified. In some embodiments, the glutamic acid derivative can be a synthetic derivative having properties according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the compound is a member of the group of compounds known as immunomodulatory drugs or immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs). In embodiments, the compound contains an IMiD-like glutarimide ring but is otherwise chemically structurally distinct and binds to the same small molecule binding pocket as the glutaramide-IMiD (IMiD binding pocket of CRBN) of CRBN. In embodiments, the compound does not contain a glutaramide ring and can bind to the IMiD pocket of CRBN. In embodiments, the compound binds to CRBN but does not bind to the IMiD pocket. In embodiments, the IMiD pocket is contained within the CULT (cereblon domain of unknown activity, binding cellular ligands and thalidomide) domain of CRBN; see PDB entries: 4TZ4, 5FQD, 5HXB, 5V3O, 6H0F, and 6H0G, and PLoS Comput Biol. 2015 Jan; 11(1): e1004023; each of these references is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0068] In some embodiments, the compound is thalidomide, lenalidomide, pomalidomide, CC-220, CC-122, CC-885, or a derivative, analog, optical isomer or mixture of optical isomers thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, co-crystal, clathrate, or polymorph thereof.

[0069] In some embodiments, the compound is avadomide, endomide, iverdomide, lenalidomide, mitindomide, pomalidomide, and thalidomide, or a derivative, analog, optical isomer or mixture of optical isomers thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, co-crystal, clathrate, or polymorph thereof.

[0070] In various embodiments, the first receptor and the second receptor are the same receptor. In various embodiments, the first receptor and the second receptor are different receptors.

[0071] In some embodiments, the ligand-binding domain is derived from a cytokine receptor. In some embodiments, the ligand-binding domain is derived from a type 1 cytokine receptor (CR). In other embodiments, the ligand-binding domain is derived from an erythropoietin receptor (EpoR) or a leptin receptor (LR). In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain and the intracellular domain are derived from a mouse leptin receptor.

[0072] In some embodiments, the bait is heterologous to the first receptor and / or the second receptor fragment. In some embodiments, the intracellular domain comprises a JAK binding site. In some embodiments, the intracellular domain comprises glycoprotein 130 (gp130). In some embodiments, the receptor fragment comprises glycoprotein 130 (gp130). In some embodiments, the STAT is selected from STAT1 or STAT3.

[0073] In some embodiments, the mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT recruitment occurs at one or more tyrosine phosphorylation sites.In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain and intracellular domain are derived from mouse leptin receptor, and the mutation is at one or more of Y985, Y1077 and Y1138 positions.In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain and intracellular domain are derived from mouse leptin receptor, and the mutation is Y985F, Y1077F and Y1138F.In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain and intracellular domain have the mutation functionally equivalent to Y985F, Y1077F and Y1138F of mouse leptin receptor.

[0074] In some embodiments, deletions of the transmembrane domain are provided, but JAK binding is retained.

[0075] The amino acid sequence of the mouse leptin receptor is:

[0076] In some embodiments, the domain is derived from the mouse leptin receptor and is derived from amino acids 839 to 1162 of the mouse leptin receptor sequence.

[0077] In some embodiments, the prey protein comprises a nuclear export sequence (NES). For example, in embodiments, the prey protein is a nuclear protein, but the NES enables it to reside in the cytoplasm (i.e., to be contacted with the bait when the bait is available). Thus, in embodiments, even in the presence of a strong nuclear localization signal, the NES signal supports the prey polypeptide to reside in the cytoplasm, thereby facilitating interaction with the bait protein.

[0078] In some embodiments, the NES has 1 to 4 hydrophobic residues. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic residue is leucine. In some embodiments, the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is a hydrophobic residue and x is any other amino acid. In some embodiments, the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is leucine and x is any other amino acid.

[0079] In some embodiments, the NES comprises amino acids 37-46 of a thermostable inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, which has been shown to neutralize strong nuclear localization signals (Wiley et al., (1999), J. Biol. Chem. 274:6381-6387; this reference is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0080] In some embodiments, the interaction between a bait protein, a small molecule, and a prey protein, or a combination thereof, is monitored or detected in the presence of a proteasome inhibitor. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a proteasome inhibitor to a cell. In some embodiments, if the prey protein is modified upon interaction between a bait protein containing an E3 ligase component and the prey protein, the proteasome inhibitor inhibits potential degradation of the prey protein in such an event. The proteasome inhibitor utilized in the methods disclosed herein can be selected from carfilzomib (Kyprolis), bortezomib (Velcade), ixazomib (Ninlaro), and marizomib. In one embodiment, the proteasome inhibitor is bortezomib (Velcade).

[0081] In various embodiments, the methods identify novel molecular interactions. In various embodiments, the methods identify novel protein / protein interactions. In various embodiments, the methods identify novel protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of small molecules to prey or bait proteins.

[0082] In various embodiments, the method identifies molecular interactions, but does not require the use of hybrid ligands (or small molecules or compounds) or ligands in which two small molecule substances are linked together by a linker.In some embodiments, the small molecule is a single chemical entity.In some embodiments, the small molecule does not have a linker.

[0083] In embodiments, the small molecule directly interacts with only one of the bait or prey protein. In embodiments, the small molecule directly interacts with the bait and / or prey protein only in the presence of the bait or prey protein; for example, the small molecule directly interacts with the prey protein only in the presence of the bait protein, or the small molecule directly interacts with the bait protein only in the presence of the prey protein, or the small molecule directly interacts with both the bait and prey protein only in the presence of the bait or prey protein.

[0084] In some embodiments, the methods can be used with VHL as the E3 ligase substrate-binding bait protein. Like CRBN, VHL is the substrate-binding subunit of an E3 ligase. Thus, all embodiments relating to E3 ligase as a bait equally apply to VHL as a bait.

[0085] In an embodiment, the method can be used when using FKBP12 protein or a member of this family (e.g., FK506-binding protein) as bait instead of E3 ligase (thus, all embodiments relating to E3 ligase as bait equally apply to FKBP12 protein or a member of this family as bait).

[0086] FKBP12 is known to bind to tacrolimus (FK506), an immunosuppressant molecule.In one embodiment, the small molecule is FK506 or its derivative, analog, optical isomer or optical isomer mixture, or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, cocrystal, clathrate or polymorph.

[0087] The present invention is further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

[0088] In an embodiment, a method for detecting a molecular interaction is provided, the method comprising: (a) providing a cell comprising a ligand-dependent chimeric receptor, The ligand-dependent chimeric receptor is (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of a second receptor and an intracellular bait protein fused thereto; wherein the transmembrane domain and / or intracellular domain of the second receptor comprises a mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription) recruitment; transmembrane and intracellular domains, Including, providing cells; (b) expressing in the cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, wherein the receptor fragment contains a functional STAT recruitment site. To express, and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction, wherein the bait protein is FK506 binding protein (FKBP); detecting a signal; Includes.

[0089] In one embodiment, interaction between the prey protein and the bait protein recruits the receptor fragment fused to the bait protein to the transmembrane chimeric receptor protein, thereby restoring ligand-dependent transmembrane chimeric receptor signaling and resulting in activation of STAT molecules.

[0090] In an embodiment, the cells contain a STAT-responsive reporter gene.

[0091] In an embodiment, activated STAT molecules translocate into the nucleus and induce transcription of a STAT-responsive reporter gene, allowing detection of the molecular interaction via this reporter gene signal.

[0092] In an embodiment, the FK506 binding protein (FKBP) is selected from FKBP12, FKBP38 and FKBP52.

[0093] In an embodiment, the method further comprises introducing a small molecule that binds to the prey protein and / or the bait protein.

[0094] In an embodiment, the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of a small molecule to a prey or bait protein.

[0095] In an embodiment, the molecular interaction is two or more protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of a small molecule to a prey or bait protein.

[0096] In an embodiment, the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of a small molecule to a prey or bait protein is a direct binding between the prey or bait protein and the small molecule at the site of the protein / protein interface.

[0097] In an embodiment, the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of a small molecule to a prey or bait protein is mediated by an allosteric modification of the protein surface of the bait protein.

[0098] In an embodiment, the small molecule induces hydrophobic surface exposure of the bait protein, allowing it to interact with the prey protein.

[0099] In an embodiment, the small molecule is a molecular glue.

[0100] In an embodiment, the molecular interaction is complex formation.

[0101] In an embodiment, the molecular interaction is a small molecule / protein interaction.

[0102] In an embodiment, the first receptor and the second receptor are the same receptor.

[0103] In an embodiment, the first receptor and the second receptor are different receptors.

[0104] In an embodiment, the first receptor and / or second receptor is a multimerizing receptor.

[0105] In embodiments, the ligand binding domain is derived from a cytokine receptor.

[0106] In an embodiment, the ligand binding domain is derived from a type 1 cytokine receptor (CR).

[0107] In embodiments, the ligand binding domain is derived from the erythropoietin receptor (EpoR) or the leptin receptor (LR).

[0108] In an embodiment, the transmembrane and intracellular domains are derived from the mouse leptin receptor (LR).

[0109] In an embodiment, the bait is heterologous to the first receptor and / or second receptor fragment.

[0110] In embodiments, the intracellular domain comprises a JAK binding site and / or the receptor fragment comprises gp130.

[0111] In an embodiment, the STAT is selected from STAT1 or STAT3.

[0112] In an embodiment, the mutations that reduce or eliminate STAT recruitment occur at one or more tyrosine phosphorylation sites.

[0113] In an embodiment, the transmembrane and intracellular domains are derived from the mouse leptin receptor (LR) and the mutations are at one or more of positions Y985, Y1077, and Y1138.

[0114] In an embodiment, the transmembrane and intracellular domains are derived from the mouse leptin receptor (LR) and the mutations are Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F.

[0115] In an embodiment, the transmembrane and intracellular domains have mutations functionally equivalent to Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F of the mouse leptin receptor (LR).

[0116] In an embodiment, the prey protein comprises a nuclear export sequence (NES).

[0117] In an embodiment, the NES has 1 to 4 hydrophobic residues.

[0118] In an embodiment, the hydrophobic residue is leucine.

[0119] In an embodiment, the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is a hydrophobic residue and x is any other amino acid.

[0120] In an embodiment, the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is leucine and x is any other amino acid.

[0121] In an embodiment, the bait is contacted with a compound prior to interaction with the prey protein.

[0122] In an embodiment, the compound is selected from FK506 (tacrolimus), rapamycin (sirolimus), and cyclosporin A (CsA) or a derivative or analog thereof; or a compound that competitively binds to the same FKBP bait binding site as FK506 (tacrolimus), rapamycin (sirolimus), and cyclosporin A (CsA) or a derivative or analog thereof.

[0123] In an embodiment, the method identifies novel protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of small molecules to a prey or bait protein.

[0124] Example Example 1: Evaluation of MAPPIT-derived assay configurations for the detection of molecular glue-induced CRBN-substrate interactions In this example, we use a derivative of the MAPPIT assay, described by Lemmens et al., "MAPPIT, a mammalian two-hybrid method for in-cell detection of protein-protein interactions," Methods Mol Biol. 2015;1278:447-55, to identify ligand-inducible CRBN substrates or neosubstrates. Traditional MAPPIT assays are used to monitor protein-protein interactions. The bait protein (protein A) is expressed as a fusion protein in which protein A is genetically fused to an engineered intracellular receptor domain of the leptin receptor, which is itself fused to the extracellular domain of the erythropoietin (Epo) receptor. Binding of the Epo ligand to the Epo receptor component activates receptor-bound intracellular JAK2. However, activated JAK2 cannot activate the leptin receptor, which would otherwise cause STAT3 binding and phosphorylation, because the tyrosine residue normally phosphorylated by activated JAK2 is mutated. Instead, the interaction of protein B with protein A reconstitutes a JAK2-phosphorylatable STAT3 docking site; protein B is then fused to the intracellular domain of the gp130 receptor (which contains the correct tyrosine residue recognized by activated JAK2 kinase). Thus, the physical interaction between protein A and protein B reconstitutes EPO-induced activation of the JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway. STAT3 activation can be monitored by introducing a STAT3-responsive reporter gene, including a gene encoding luciferase or a fluorescent marker (e.g., GFP or other types of fluorescent proteins, e.g., EGFP). Thus, the MAPPIT assay provides a versatile assay for evaluating such recombinant protein / protein interactions in intact cells.

[0125] In this Example 1, we developed a derivative of the MAPPIT assay specifically for determining CRBN ligand-induced protein interactions (i.e., using a specific CRBN bait protein to assay for ligand-dependent induction of protein complex formation). The CRBN bait protein is expressed as a fusion with a MAPPIT chimeric membrane receptor, and the interacting target protein is fused to an intracellular gp130 receptor fragment (gp130-IKZF1 (isoform 7), gp130-target X, gp130-GSPT1 (domains 2+3), or gp130-GSPT2). We evaluated this MAPPIT-derived assay for the detection of a panel of known IMiDs that induce the recruitment of these substrates to CRBN (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885).

[0126] HEK293T cells were transfected with a plasmid encoding a CRBN chimeric receptor fusion (pSEL-CRBN), a plasmid encoding a MAPPIT gp130 fusion (gp130-IKZF1 (isoform 7), gp130-target X, gp130-GSPT1 (domains 2+3), or gp130-GSPT2), and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). For each of the tested target proteins, full-length proteins were fused, with the exception of IKZF1 and GSPT1, where isoform 7 was used for the former and internal subdomains were used for the latter. The MAPPIT receptor fusion used in this example consisted of the target protein (CRBN) genetically linked to the intracellular domain of the leptin receptor, which itself was fused to the extracellular domain of the erythropoietin (EPO) receptor. The EPO receptor extracellular domain and the leptin receptor extracellular domain (as used in Example 2) can be used interchangeably to promote receptor-receptor-bound JAK2 activation (activation by EPO or leptin, respectively). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with erythropoietin (EPO) in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of test compounds. Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviation.Curve fitting was performed using 4-parameter nonlinear regression with GRAPHPAD PRISM software. The data shown in Figure 2A-L suggest that the MAPPIT recruitment assay is capable of recapitulating known interactions, IMiD specificities (e.g., GSPT1 and GSPT2 recruited only by CC-885), and potency trends.

[0127] Example 2: Comparison of alternative CRBN MAPPIT derivative receptor constructs for detecting IMiD-induced substrate recruitment In this Example 2, the assay setup used in Example 1 was compared and compared with a similar MAPPIT-derived assay configuration using alternative CRBN chimeric receptor fusion constructs. As previously mentioned in Example 1, other alternative receptor fusions are available, where the EPO extracellular domain is replaced with the leptin receptor extracellular domain, resulting in an assay system activated by leptin instead of EPO. In this example, HEK293T cells were transformed with a plasmid encoding CRBN linked to a MAPPIT receptor fusion containing either the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-CRBN as in Example 1) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-CRBN). As shown in the schematic diagrams in Figures 3A-D, these constructs differ not only in the extracellular domain but also in the intracellular organization of the chimeric receptor. In the case of the pSEL-CRBN construct, the fusion contains the entire intracellular domain of the engineered leptin receptor; whereas, in the case of the pCLG-CRBN construct, a short portion of the leptin receptor containing the JAK2 recruitment site is used, with an additional Gly-Gly-Ser hinge placed between this domain and the fused CRBN bait protein. Additionally, HEK293T cells were cotransfected with a plasmid encoding a substrate of interest fused to a partial gp130 domain (IKZF1 isoform 1, IKZF1 isoform 7, GSPT1 isoform 1, or GSPT1 domains 2+3) and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). For IKZF1 (isoform 1) gp130 fusions, two different constructs were used with gp130 fused to either the N- or C-terminus of IKZF1.Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO (for assays using pSEL-CRBN) or leptin (for assays using pCLG-CRBN) in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of test compound (CC-220 or CC-885). Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a Luciferase Assay System Kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO or leptin plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO or leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. The data shown in Figure 3A-D suggest that both alternative MAPPIT receptor fusions enable the detection of molecular glue-dependent neo-substrate interactions with CRBN.

[0128] Example 3: Detection of CRBN Compound-Induced Substrate Interactions Using DDB1 MAPPIT Derivative Receptor Fusion Constructs Because it would be beneficial to test compound-induced CRBN / substrate interactions using an unfused CRBN bait, we developed a MAPPIT-derived assay in which DDB1 is fused to the MAPPIT chimeric receptor construct instead of CRBN. DDB1 is an adaptor protein that links CRBN to the core E3 ubiquitin ligase complex scaffolding subunits CUL4A or CUL4B (Cullin 4A or Cullin 4B). HEK293T cells were transfected with a plasmid (pSEL-DDB1) encoding DDB1 linked to a MAPPIT receptor fusion containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain, a plasmid encoding a CRBN substrate protein (IKZF1 isoform 7 or undisclosed target protein X1, also used in Example 1) fused to a partial gp130 domain, and a reporter plasmid (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase, as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: High-Throughput Interactome Analysis in Mammalian Cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Furthermore, cells were cotransfected with different amounts of an unfused CRBN expression construct. Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of lenalidomide (LEN). Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviation.As shown in Figure 4, only in the presence of co-expressed unfused CRBN was a stable lenalidomide-dependent MAPPIT signal obtained for both IKZF1 and the interaction with target X; this suggests that the signal is mediated by binding of the substrate gp130 fusion protein to CRBN.

[0129] Example 4: Co-expression of DDB1 improves detection of CRBN compound-induced substrate interactions Because the DDB1 adaptor protein is an essential component of the CRBN E3 ligase complex, linking CRBN to the CUL4A or CUL4B complex scaffolding proteins, endogenous DDB1 levels are likely to be limiting in cells expressing the MAPPIT-derived fusion protein component of the CRBN-substrate recruitment assay. In this Example 4, we evaluated the effect of DDB1 coexpression on IMiD-induced interaction between CRBN and IKZF1. HEK293T cells were transfected with a plasmid (pSEL-DDB1) encoding a CRBN MAPPIT receptor fusion containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain, a plasmid encoding a gp130 fusion of IKZF1 (isoform 7), and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). In addition, in some of the conditions tested, cells were also cotransfected with a non-fused DDB1 expression plasmid. Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of IMiDs (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885). Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviation.The data in Figure 5 show that in samples that co-expressed DDB1, the signal increased at low concentrations of the compound tested compared to the maximum signal for the compound, suggesting that co-expression of DDB1 improved the sensitivity of the assay.

[0130] Example 5: Detection of CRBN Compound-Induced Substrate Interactions Using DDB1-CRBN MAPPIT Chimeric Receptor Fusion Constructs As discussed in Examples 3 and 4, DDB1 is a key component of the CRBN E3 ligase complex and is essential for CRBN-mediated substrate recruitment and ubiquitination. In addition to the assay configurations used in Examples 3 and 4, another MAPPIT-derivative assay configuration uses a MAPPIT receptor construct containing a genetic fusion of DDB1 and CRBN. Such a fusion was generated using a MAPPIT chimeric receptor containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-DDB1-CRBN) and used in this Example 5. HEK293T cells were transfected with this construct, along with a plasmid encoding a gp130 fusion of IKZF1 (isoform 7) and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid), as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of IMiDs (thalidomide, THL; lenalidomide, LEN; pomalidomide, POM; CC-122; CC-220; CC-885). Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. The data in Figure 6 suggest that the DDB1 / CRBN gene fusion can be used in a MAPPIT-derived assay to detect CRBN IMiD-induced substrate recruitment.

[0131] Example 6: Evaluation of PROTAC-induced binding of substrates to CRBN In this Example 6, we evaluated CRBN substrate recruitment induced by Protac, a hybrid ligand consisting of a CRBN-binding ligand chemically linked to a substrate-binding ligand. The compound tested in this Example was ARV-825, which is a chemical fusion of a CRBN-binding ligand and a BRD4-binding compound. HEK293T cells were cotransfected with plasmids encoding two alternative MAPPIT-derived CRBN bait receptors, encoding fusion constructs containing either the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-CRBN) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-CRBN) used in Example 2, along with a reporter plasmid encoding gp130 of BRD4 (isoform 3) and a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid), as described in Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO (for samples transfected with pSEL-CRBN) or leptin (for samples transfected with pCLG-CRBN) in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of ARV-825. Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a Luciferase Assay System Kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO or leptin plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO or leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. The data shown in Figure 7A-B demonstrate a clear dose-dependent signal increase in each assay configuration tested, suggesting that the MAPPIT-derived CRBN substrate recruitment assay is capable of detecting interactions induced by PROTAC-type molecules.

[0132] Example 7: Detection of compound-induced FKBP1A (FKBP12) substrate interactions In this example, a MAPPIT-derived assay was used to detect compound-dependent interactions of FKBP1A (FKBP12) with MTOR and calcineurin subunits. The following plasmid constructs encoding MAPPIT-derived receptors and gp130 fusions were used, and the experimental setup was as described in Example 1: the FKBP1A bait was fused to a MAPPIT chimeric receptor construct containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-FKBP1A); and the target protein was fused to a partial gp130 domain (MTOR FRB domain or PPP3CA). For calcineurin interactions, an additional assay setup was used: in addition to the MAPPIT receptor and gp130 fusion, a plasmid expressing unfused PPP3R2, encoding the calcineurin regulatory subunit, was coexpressed, since this regulatory subunit has been reported to contribute to the FK506 macrolide-induced FKBP1A-calcineurin interaction. HEK293T cells were transfected with plasmids encoding the indicated receptors and gp130, as well as a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of test compounds (rapamycin or everolimus for MTOR recruitment; FK506 or pimecrolimus for calcineurin binding). Twenty-four hours after treatment with the test compound, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA).Data points represent the mean fold induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. Curve fitting was performed using 4-parameter nonlinear regression with GRAPHPAD PRISM software. The results shown in Figure 8A-F suggest that the MAPPIT-derived assay can monitor compound-induced FKBP1A target binding. In the case of calcineurin recruitment, coexpression of the PPP3R2 regulatory subunit significantly enhanced signal intensity.

[0133] Example 8: Detection of compound-induced VHL-substrate interactions As in Example 6, a MAPPIT-derived assay was used to detect the Protac-dependent interaction between VHL and BRD4. HEK293T cells were cotransfected with plasmids encoding two alternative MAPPIT-derived VHL bait receptors, encoding fusion constructs containing either the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-VHL) or the leptin receptor extracellular domain (pCLG-VHL), together with a gp130 fusion of BRD4 (isoform 3) and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid), as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO (for samples transfected with pSEL-CRBN) or leptin (for samples transfected with pCLG-CRBN) in the presence or absence of the indicated dose of MZ1 (a chemical fusion between VHL and the BRD4 ligand). Twenty-four hours after test compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO or leptin plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO or leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. The graphs in Figure 9A-B demonstrate a clear dose-dependent signal increase in each assay configuration tested.

[0134] Example 9: Compound library screening to identify novel molecular glue-induced recruitment of IKZF1 to CRBN In this example, a compound collection of 96 IMiDs and IMiD-like molecular glues was screened in a microtiter plate format using the MAPPIT-derived IKZF1-CRBN recruitment assay described in Example 1 to identify compounds that induce the recruitment of IKZF1 to CRBN. HEK293T cells were cotransfected with a plasmid encoding a fusion construct of the CRBN bait protein linked to the EPO receptor extracellular domain (pSEL-CRBN) and a chimeric MAPPIT-derived receptor containing the gp130-IKZF1 (isoform 7) fusion construct, along with a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: high-throughput interactome analysis in mammalian cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO and compounds (or DMSO as a negative control). Three concentrations of each compound (labeled "low," "medium," and "high" in Figure 10A-C) were used: either 0.8, 4, and 20 μM, or 0.2, 1, and 5 μM, depending on the compound's previously evaluated cytotoxicity level. Each compound concentration was tested in duplicate. Twenty-four hours after compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a luciferase assay system kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). The graphs in Figure 10A-C (left panel) show the frequency distribution of the mean luciferase signal (raw data) for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls, and each graph corresponds to data for one of the three compound concentrations (low, medium, and high) tested.The right-shifted portion of the bimodal distribution, corresponding to compound-treated samples, represents compounds with signals above background and therefore induce the recruitment of IKZF1 to CRBN. Lines (dotted, dashed, or solid) indicate the luciferase signal for three compounds that exhibit reporter signals above background at one or more of the three tested concentrations; the corresponding dose-response curves are shown in the right panel. These dose-response curves were obtained using the same assay setup and protocol as in the primary screen, but now tested over a nine-point dose range of the indicated concentrations. Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) for cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviations. Curve fitting was performed using 4-parameter nonlinear regression in GRAPHPAD PRISM software. Taken together, this example suggests that the MAPPIT-derived assay described here can be used for compound ensemble screening to identify known and novel molecular glue-induced substrate recruitment to CRBN. Figures 10A-C illustrate compound screening specifically for glue-induced IKZF1 recruitment to CRBN, but this approach can also be applied to screening other potential substrates.

[0135] Example 10: Identification of novel molecular glue-induced CRBN substrates using a MAPPIT-derived ORF cDNA library screening approach To identify ligand-inducible CRBN substrates or neosubstrates, we performed a MAPPIT cell microarray screen using the method described by Lievens et al. ("Proteome-scale binary interactomics in human cells," Molecular & Cellular Proteomics 1 5.12 (2016): 3624-3639). Briefly, HEK293T cells were transformed with the same CRBN bait expression plasmid (pSEL-CRBN) encoding a fusion construct of a CRBN bait protein linked to a chimeric MAPPIT derivative receptor containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain, as described in Examples 1 and 9 above. These transformed cells were then added to a microarray screening plate containing a collection of prey gp130 fusion expression plasmids covering over 15,000 ORFs. Each microarray spot contained a different gp130-ORF fusion expression plasmid and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive fluorescent protein. Therefore, all CRBN bait-transduced cells that arrived and adhered to these spots were transformed with the gp130-ORF prey plasmid and reporter plasmid, and cells on each different microarray spot were tested with a different CRBN-ORF combination. Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were specifically stimulated with erythropoietin in the presence or absence of the CRBN ligand CC-220 (10 μM), and reporter signals (GFP-like fluorescent reporters) were measured 48 hours later. Fluorescence intensity data were analyzed as described above to generate volcano plots; as shown in Figures 11A-B, the plots show the q values ​​calculated based on the integrated fluorescence intensity (Y-axis) of cell clusters on each microarray relative to the median ratio of the fluorescent particle counts (X-axis) of the corresponding cell clusters. Four ORF cDNAs showing strong signals (indicated by arrows on the dot plots in Figures 11A-B) were selected to confirm the dose response using assay settings and protocols similar to those used in Examples 1 and 9 above.HEK293T cells were cotransfected with the CRBN receptor fusion plasmid (pSEL-CRBN) along with the corresponding gp130-ORF plasmid and luciferase reporter plasmid. Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated concentrations of CC-220, and luciferase activity was determined after another 24 hours. Dose-response curves represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO alone. Error bars represent standard deviations, and curve fitting was performed using four-parameter nonlinear regression with GRAPHPAD PRISM software. This example suggests that the MAPPIT-derived assay described herein, as exemplified here for CC-220, can be used to screen ORF cDNA collections to identify known and novel molecular glue-inducible CRBN substrates.

[0136] Example 11: Hybrid Ligand Library Screening to Identify Novel Ligands for a Protein of Interest Similar to the approach described in Example 9, in this example, a MAPPIT-derived assay was used to screen a compound library to identify novel protein ligands. Specifically, a collection of trimethoprim (TMP)-ligand hybrid molecules was screened for binding to a protein of interest. Because TMP binds tightly to DHFR (dihydrofolate reductase), TMP can be used to tether a ligand to a MAPPIT-derived DHFR-receptor fusion as part of a TMP hybrid-ligand fusion molecule, thereby presenting the ligand as bait (see schematic diagram in Figures 12A-B). In this assay setup, this DHFR-receptor fusion is combined with a TMP hybrid ligand and a gp130-ORF fusion construct to form a ternary complex, generating a reporter signal. In this example, a library of hybrid ligands is screened for compound binding to the estrogen receptor (ESR1), a nuclear receptor and transcription factor implicated in breast cancer, and to MDM4 (mouse double minute 4), a key cancer target involved in regulating the p53 tumor suppressor. The compound collection screened in this example consisted of a diverse set of 320 hybrid ligands consisting of a TMP-TAM (tamoxifen) mixture; tamoxifen is a known ligand for ESR1.HEK293T cells were cotransfected with a plasmid encoding a fusion construct of an Escherichia coli DHFR-anchored protein (pCLG-DHFR; see schematic diagram in Figure 12A-B) linked to a chimeric MAPPIT-derived receptor containing the leptin receptor extracellular domain and either gp130-ESR1 (Figure 12A) or gp130-MDM4 (Figure 12B) fusion constructs, along with a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid), as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: High-Throughput Interactome Analysis in Mammalian Cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with leptin and compounds (or DMSO as a negative control). Twenty-four hours after compound treatment, luciferase activity was measured using a Luciferase Assay System Kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). The graphs shown in Figure 12A-B (left panel) show the frequency distributions of the average luciferase signal (raw data) for both compound-treated samples and DMSO-treated controls. While both distributions overlap significantly, multiple compounds exhibit luciferase signals above background. These outliers are indicated by linear markers on the frequency curves. For each of the two exemplary screens, single hits were confirmed by dose-response analysis (right panel). These dose-response curves were obtained using a similar assay setup and protocol to that used in the primary screen (except utilizing an alternative DHFR receptor anchor fusion construct, pCLL-DHFR, containing a mutated leptin receptor intracellular domain instead of the Gly-Gly-Ser hinge described in Example 2), but in this example testing a nine-point dose range of the indicated concentrations.Data points represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) for cells treated with leptin plus test compound relative to cells treated with leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviations, and curve fitting was performed using 4-parameter nonlinear regression in GRAPHPAD PRISM software. In the case of the ESR1 target screen, the confirmed hit corresponds to TMP-TAM; here, TAM is a known ESR1 ligand, and these data therefore validate the MAPPIT derivative screening approach. Collectively, these examples suggest that the MAPPIT derivative assay described here can be used for hybrid ligand ensemble screening to identify known and novel ligand / target interactions.

[0137] Example 12: Cell microarray-based ORF cDNA library screening with a MAPPIT-derived assay to identify novel hybrid ligand targets In this example, a MAPPIT cell microarray screen similar to that described in Example 10 was performed using the method described by Lievens et al. ("Proteome-scale binary interactomics in human cells," Molecular & Cellular Proteomics 1 5.12 (2016): 3624-3639) to identify novel target proteins for hybrid ligand bait molecules. This screening approach was utilized to identify the target of an undisclosed compound with a potent antitumor phenotype. To this end, a hybrid ligand fusion compound was synthesized in which TMP was linked to the compound via PEG linkage. HEK293T cells were transformed with the same (E. coli) DHFR receptor anchor fusion plasmid (pCLG-DHFR) used in Example 11 above. These transformed cells were then added to a microarray screening plate containing a collection of prey gp130 fusion expression plasmids covering over 15,000 ORFs. Each microarray spot contained a different gp130-ORF fusion expression plasmid and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive fluorescent protein. Therefore, any DHFR-anchored fusion-transduced cells that arrived and adhered to these spots were transformed with both the gp130-ORF prey plasmid and the reporter plasmid. Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were specifically stimulated with leptin in the presence or absence of a TMP / compound hybrid ligand (final concentration 5 μM). 48 hours later, reporter signals (GFP-like fluorescent reporters) were measured. The fluorescence intensity data were analyzed as described above to generate Volcano plots; as shown in Figure 13A-B, the plots show the q values ​​calculated based on the integrated fluorescence intensity (Y-axis) of cell clusters on each microarray relative to the median number of fluorescent particles (X-axis) of the corresponding cell clusters.One ORF cDNA showed a strong signal (indicated by an arrow on the dot plot in Figure 13A-B), so it was selected for dose-response confirmation. HEK293T cells were cotransfected with the DHFR receptor fusion plasmid (pCLG-DHFR) along with the corresponding gp130-ORF plasmid and luciferase reporter plasmid. 24 h after transfection, cells were treated with leptin in the presence or absence of the indicated concentrations of hybrid ligand, and luciferase activity was determined after another 24 h. Dose-response curves represent the mean fold-induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with leptin plus test compound relative to cells treated with leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviations, and curve fitting was performed using four-parameter nonlinear regression with GRAPHPAD PRISM software. This example suggests that the MAPPIT-derived assay described herein can be used to screen ORF cDNA collections to identify novel ligand-protein targets.

[0138] Example 13: Detection of rapamycin-induced recruitment of MTOR to FKBP proteins In this example, a MAPPIT-derived assay was developed to monitor rapamycin-induced binding between MTOR and members of the FKBP protein family (specifically, FKBP1A (FKBP12), FKBP3, FKBP4, and FKBP5). As shown in Figure 14, FKBP cDNA was cloned as a MAPPIT receptor fusion (pSEL-FKBPx) containing the EPO receptor extracellular domain, and MTOR (FRB domain) was cloned as a gp130 fusion. HEK293T cells were cotransfected with either of the FKBP receptor fusion constructs along with a gp130-MTOR fusion plasmid and a reporter plasmid encoding a STAT3-responsive luciferase (pXP2d2-rPAPI-luciferase reporter plasmid) as described previously (Lievens et al., "Array MAPPIT: High-Throughput Interactome Analysis in Mammalian Cells," Journal of Proteome Research 8.2 (2009): 877-886). Twenty-four hours after transfection, cells were treated with EPO in the presence or absence of the indicated doses of rapamycin. Luciferase activity was measured 24 hours after test compound treatment using a Luciferase Assay System Kit (PROMEGA, Madison, WI) and an Ensight plate reader (PERKIN ELMER LIFE SCIENCES, Waltham, MA). Data points represent the mean fold induction of luciferase activity (triplicate samples) in cells treated with EPO plus test compound relative to cells treated with EPO or leptin alone. Error bars represent standard deviation. As can be seen, for each FKBP-MTOR interaction, a rapamycin-inducible reporter signal was obtained, as previously reported.

Claims

1. 1. A method for detecting molecular interactions, said method comprising: (a) providing a cell comprising a ligand-dependent chimeric receptor, The ligand-dependent chimeric receptor (i) the extracellular portion of the ligand-binding domain from the first receptor; and (ii) the transmembrane and intracellular domains of a second receptor and an intracellular bait or scaffold protein fused thereto; Including, the transmembrane and / or intracellular domain of the second receptor comprises a mutation that reduces or eliminates the recruitment of STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription); providing cells; (b) expressing in a cell a prey protein fused to a receptor fragment, wherein the receptor fragment comprises a functional STAT recruitment site; To express; and (c) detecting a signal indicative of the presence of a molecular interaction; Including, the bait protein is an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit, cereblon (CRBN), or FK506-binding protein (FKBP); or a bait scaffold protein fused to the transmembrane and / or intracellular domain of the second receptor associates with a bait protein that is an E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit; the method comprises introducing a small molecule that binds to a prey protein and / or a bait protein, and the molecular interaction is a protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to the prey protein or the bait protein; method.

2. Interaction between the prey protein and the bait protein recruits the receptor fragment fused to the bait protein to the transmembrane chimeric receptor protein, restoring ligand-dependent transmembrane chimeric receptor signaling and activation of STAT molecules. The method of claim 1.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cells contain a STAT-responsive reporter gene.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the activated STAT molecule translocates into the nucleus and induces transcription of the STAT-responsive reporter gene, allowing detection of molecular interaction via reporter gene signal.

5. 5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the E3 ligase substrate-binding subunit is selected from cereblon (CRBN) and von Hippel Lindau (VHL).

6. the scaffold protein is selected from damaged DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1), cullin 4A (CUL4A), regulator of cullin 1 (ROC1), SKIP1, SKP1 interacting partner (SKIP2), beta transducin repeat-containing protein (β-TrCP), double minute 4 protein (MDM4), X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP), DDB1 and CUL4 associated factor 15 (DCAF15), and WD repeat domain 12 (WDR12); The method of claim 2.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the molecular interaction is two or more types of protein / protein interactions mediated by binding of the small molecule with a prey protein or a bait protein.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey or bait protein is a direct binding between the prey or bait protein and the small molecule at a protein / protein interface, or the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey or bait protein is mediated by an allosteric modification of the protein surface of the bait protein.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the small molecule induces a hydrophobic surface exposure of the bait protein that allows it to interact with the prey protein.

10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the small molecule is a molecular glue.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the molecular interaction is complex formation.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first receptor and the second receptor are the same or different receptors.

13. the first receptor and / or the second receptor is a multimerized receptor; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. 14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the ligand binding domain is derived from a cytokine receptor, and / or the ligand binding domain is derived from a type 1 cytokine receptor (CR), or the ligand binding domain is derived from an erythropoietin receptor (EpoR) or a leptin receptor (LR), and / or the transmembrane and intracellular domains are derived from a mouse leptin receptor (LR).

15. the bait is heterologous to the first receptor and / or the second receptor fragment; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. 16. The method of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the intracellular domain comprises a JAK binding site and / or the receptor fragment comprises gp130.

17. the STAT is selected from STAT1 or STAT3, and / or the mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT recruitment occurs at one or more tyrosine phosphorylation sites; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. the transmembrane domain and the intracellular domain are derived from mouse leptin receptor (LR), and the mutations are at one or more of positions Y985, Y1077, and Y1138, and / or the mutations are one or more of Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F, or have mutations functionally equivalent to Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F of mouse leptin receptor (LR); The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. the prey protein comprises a nuclear export sequence (NES); the NES has 1 to 4 hydrophobic residues, wherein the hydrophobic residue is leucine, and / or the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is leucine and x is any other amino acid; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. the bait is contacted with a compound prior to interaction with the prey protein; the compound contains a glutarimide ring and a phthalimide ring, and / or the compound is selected from thalidomide, lenalidomide, pomalidomide, CC-220, CC-122, CC-885, or a derivative or analog thereof, or a compound that competitively binds to the same CRBN bait binding site as thalidomide, lenalidomide, pomalidomide, CC-220, CC-122, CC-885, or a derivative or analog thereof; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The method comprises: a novel protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of said small molecule to a prey or bait protein; or small molecule compounds that induce, mediate, or stabilize protein / protein interactions involving the prey protein and the bait protein, and / or small molecule compounds that are molecular glues or hybrid ligands Identify the The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. The method of claim 1, wherein the bait protein is FK506 binding protein (FKBP).

23. Interaction between the prey protein and the bait protein recruits the receptor fragment fused to the bait protein to the transmembrane chimeric receptor protein, restoring ligand-dependent transmembrane chimeric receptor signaling and activation of STAT molecules.

23. The method of claim 22.

24. the cells contain a STAT-responsive reporter gene, and / or Activated STAT molecules translocate into the nucleus and induce the transcription of a STAT-responsive reporter gene, allowing detection of molecular interactions via the reporter gene signal.

24. The method of claim 23.

25. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the FK506 binding protein (FKBP) is selected from FKBP12, FKBP38 and FKBP52.

26. the molecular interaction is two or more protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey protein or a bait protein; The method according to any one of claims 22 to 25.

27. The method of any one of claims 22 to 26, wherein the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey protein or a bait protein is a direct binding between the prey protein or bait protein and the small molecule at a protein / protein interface, or the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey protein or a bait protein is mediated by an allosteric modification of the protein surface of the bait protein.

28. the small molecule induces a hydrophobic surface exposure of the bait protein that allows it to interact with the prey protein, and / or The small molecule is a molecular glue; The method according to any one of claims 22 to 27.

29. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the molecular interaction is complex formation.

30. the first receptor and the second receptor are the same or different receptors, and / or the first receptor and / or the second receptor is a multimerized receptor, and / or the ligand binding domain is derived from a cytokine receptor, and / or the ligand binding domain is derived from a type 1 cytokine receptor (CR), or the ligand binding domain is derived from an erythropoietin receptor (EpoR) or a leptin receptor (LR), and / or The transmembrane domain and the intracellular domain are derived from a mouse leptin receptor (LR).

30. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 29.

31. the bait is heterologous to the first receptor and / or the second receptor fragment; The method according to any one of claims 22 to 30.

32. 32. The method of any one of claims 22 to 31, wherein the intracellular domain comprises a JAK binding site and / or the receptor fragment comprises gp130.

33. the STAT is selected from STAT1 or STAT3, and / or 33. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, wherein the mutation that reduces or eliminates STAT recruitment occurs at one or more tyrosine phosphorylation sites.

34. The method of any one of claims 22 to 33, wherein the transmembrane domain and the intracellular domain are derived from a mouse leptin receptor (LR), and the mutations are at one or more of positions Y985, Y1077, and Y1138, and / or the mutations are one or more of Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F, and / or have mutations functionally equivalent to Y985F, Y1077F, and Y1138F of the mouse leptin receptor (LR).

35. the prey protein comprises a nuclear export sequence (NES); the NES has 1 to 4 hydrophobic residues, and the hydrophobic residues are leucine; and / or the NES has the sequence LxxxLxxLxL, where L is leucine and x is any other amino acid; The method according to any one of claims 22 to 34.

36. 36. The method of any one of claims 22 to 35, wherein prior to interaction with the prey protein, the bait is contacted with a compound selected from FK506 (tacrolimus), rapamycin (sirolimus), and cyclosporin A (CsA) or a derivative or analogue thereof, or a compound that competitively binds to the same FKBP bait binding site as FK506 (tacrolimus), rapamycin (sirolimus), and cyclosporin A (CsA) or a derivative or analogue thereof.

37. The method of any one of claims 22 to 36, wherein the method identifies novel protein / protein interactions mediated by the binding of a small molecule to a prey or bait protein.

38. The bait protein is cereblon (CRBN) or FK506 binding protein (FKBP). The method of claim 1.

39. the protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of the small molecule to a prey or bait protein is mediated by an allosteric modification of the protein surface of the bait protein; and / or the small molecule induces a hydrophobic surface exposure of the bait protein that allows it to interact with the prey protein, and / or The small molecule is a molecular glue compound or a hybrid ligand; 39. The method of claim 38.

40. The method comprises: a novel protein / protein interaction mediated by the binding of said small molecule to a prey or bait protein; or small molecule compounds that induce, mediate, or stabilize protein / protein interactions involving the prey protein and the bait protein, and / or small molecule compounds that are molecular glues or hybrid ligands Identify the 39. The method of claim 38.

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