Oxalomalate reduces tumor progression in melanoma via ROS-dependent proapoptotic and antiangiogenic effects

The potent cytotoxicity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause various diseases, however, it may also serve as a powerful chemotherapeutic strategy capable of killing cancer cells. Oxalomalate (OMA, α-hydroxy-β-oxalosuccinic acid), a tricarboxylic acid intermediate, is a well-known competitive inhibitor of two classes of NADP+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) isoenzymes, which serve as the major antioxidants and redox regulators in the mitochondria and cytosol. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of OMA in melanoma and elucidated the associated underlying mechanisms of action using in vitro and in vivo models. OMA targeting IDH enzymes suppressed melanoma growth through activation of apoptosis and inhibition of angiogenesis. Mechanistically, our findings showed that OMA activated p53-mediated apoptosis through ROS-dependent ATM-Chk2 signaling and reduced the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor through ROS-dependent E2F1-mediated hypoxia inducible factor-1α degradation. In particular, OMA-induced suppression of IDH activity resulted in induction of ROS stress response, ultimately leading to apoptotic cell death and antiangiogenic effects in melanoma cells. Thus, OMA might be a potential candidate drug for melanoma skin cancer therapy. •Oxalomalate targeting IDH enzymes suppressed melanoma growth.•Oxalomalate activated apoptosis through ROS-dependent ATM-Chk2 signaling.•Oxalomalate exhibited antiangiogenic effects in melanoma cells.