On the binding of auranofin to Prdx6 and its potential role in cancer cell sensitivity to treatment

Abstract

In this study, we demonstrate that ferroptosis is a component of the cell death mechanism induced by auranofin in HT-1080 cells, in contrast to the gold(III) compounds [Au(phen)Cl₂]PF₆ and [Au(bnpy)Cl₂]. Additionally, we identify a potential role of Prdx6 in modulating the sensitivity of A-375 cells to auranofin treatment, whereas the gold(III) compounds evaluated here exhibit Prdx6-independent cytotoxicity. Finally, using mass spectrometry, we show that auranofin binds selectively to the catalytic Cys47 residue of Prdx6 in vitro under acidic conditions. No binding was observed with the C47S mutant or at neutral pH.