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Xu K, Wei G, Qi W, Ye C, Liu Y, Wang S, Yang F, Tang J. CircPOLA2 sensitizes non-small cell lung cancer cells to ferroptosis and suppresses tumorigenesis via the Merlin-YAP signaling pathway. iScience 2024; 27:110832. [PMID: 39310771 PMCID: PMC11416675 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in the tumorigenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Ferroptosis is considered a mechanism to suppress tumorigenesis. Herein, we identified a downregulated circRNA, circPOLA2 (hsa_circ_0004291), in NSCLC tissues and found that it was correlated with advanced clinical stage in patients. Nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation assays and FISH assays confirmed that circPOLA2 was predominantly localized in the cytoplasm. Overexpression of circPOLA2 promoted lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis in NSCLC cells, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation and migration, while knockdown of circPOLA2 exerted the opposite effects. Mechanistically, circPOLA2 interacted with Merlin, a critical regulator of the Hippo pathway, and restricted Merlin phosphorylation at S518, leading to the activation of the Hippo pathway. In addition, circPOLA2 enhanced ferroptosis in NSCLC cells by activating the Hippo pathway. Together, circPOLA2 sensitizes cells to ferroptosis and suppresses tumorigenesis in NSCLC by facilitating Merlin-mediated activation of the Hippo signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiying Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangxia Wei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanghong Qi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunlin Ye
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijiang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
- National Regional Center for Respiratory Medicine, China Japan Friendship Jiangxi Hospital, Nanchang 330000, People's Republic of China
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2
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Logan IE, Nguyen KT, Chatterjee T, Manivannan B, Paul NP, Kim SR, Sixta EM, Bastian LP, Marean-Reardon C, Karajannis MA, Fernández-Valle C, Estevez AG, Franco MC. Selective nitration of Hsp90 acts as a metabolic switch promoting tumor cell proliferation. Redox Biol 2024; 75:103249. [PMID: 38945076 PMCID: PMC11261529 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumors develop in an oxidative environment characterized by peroxynitrite production and downstream protein tyrosine (Y) nitration. We showed that tyrosine nitration supports schwannoma cell proliferation and regulates cell metabolism in the inheritable tumor disorder NF2-related Schwannomatosis (NF2-SWN). Here, we identified the chaperone Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) as the first nitrated protein that acts as a metabolic switch to promote schwannoma cell proliferation. Doubling the endogenous levels of nitrated Hsp90 in schwannoma cells or supplementing nitrated Hsp90 into normal Schwann cells increased their proliferation. Metabolically, nitration on either Y33 or Y56 conferred Hsp90 distinct functions; nitration at Y33 (Hsp90NY33) down-regulated mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, while nitration at Y56 (Hsp90NY56) increased glycolysis by activating the purinergic receptor P2X7 in both schwannoma and normal Schwann cells. Hsp90NY33 and Hsp90NY56 showed differential subcellular and spatial distribution corresponding with their metabolic and proliferative functions in schwannoma three-dimensional cell culture models. Collectively, these results underscore the role of tyrosine nitration as a post-translational modification regulating critical cellular processes. Nitrated proteins, particularly nitrated Hsp90, emerge as a novel category of tumor-directed therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle E Logan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Florida, 34987, USA
| | - Kyle T Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Tilottama Chatterjee
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | | | - Ngozi P Paul
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Florida, 34987, USA
| | - Sharon R Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Evelyn M Sixta
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Lydia P Bastian
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Carrie Marean-Reardon
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Matthias A Karajannis
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Cristina Fernández-Valle
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
| | - Alvaro G Estevez
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Florida, 33199, USA
| | - Maria Clara Franco
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Florida, 34987, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Florida, 33199, USA.
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3
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Vlashi R, Sun F, Zheng C, Zhang X, Liu J, Chen G. The molecular biology of NF2/Merlin on tumorigenesis and development. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23809. [PMID: 38967126 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400019rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
The neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene, known for encoding the tumor suppressor protein Merlin, is central to the study of tumorigenesis and associated cellular processes. This review comprehensively examines the multifaceted role of NF2/Merlin, detailing its structural characteristics, functional diversity, and involvement in various signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Hippo, TGF-β, RTKs, mTOR, Notch, and Hedgehog. These pathways are crucial for cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. NF2 mutations are specifically linked to the development of schwannomas, meningiomas, and ependymomas, although the precise mechanisms of tumor formation in these specific cell types remain unclear. Additionally, the review explores Merlin's role in embryogenesis, highlighting the severe developmental defects and embryonic lethality caused by NF2 deficiency. The potential therapeutic strategies targeting these genetic aberrations are also discussed, emphasizing inhibitors of mTOR, HDAC, and VEGF as promising avenues for treatment. This synthesis of current knowledge underscores the necessity for ongoing research to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of NF2/Merlin and develop effective therapeutic strategies, ultimately aiming to improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with NF2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rexhina Vlashi
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fuju Sun
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenggong Zheng
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Minimally Invasive Surgery in Orthopaedics & Skeletal Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Cancer Center, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing, China
| | - Guiqian Chen
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
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4
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Yuan R, Wang B, Wang Y, Liu P. Gene Therapy for Neurofibromatosis Type 2-Related Schwannomatosis: Recent Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions. Oncol Ther 2024; 12:257-276. [PMID: 38760612 PMCID: PMC11187037 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-024-00279-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)-related schwannomatosis is a rare autosomal dominant monogenic disorder caused by mutations in the NF2 gene. The hallmarks of NF2-related schwannomatosis are bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS). The current treatment options for NF2-related schwannomatosis, such as observation with serial imaging, surgery, radiotherapy, and pharmacotherapies, have shown limited effectiveness and serious complications. Therefore, there is a critical demand for novel effective treatments. Gene therapy, which has made significant advancements in treating genetic diseases, holds promise for the treatment of this disease. This review covers the genetic pathogenesis of NF2-related schwannomatosis, the latest progress in gene therapy strategies, current challenges, and future directions of gene therapy for NF2-related schwannomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruofei Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pinan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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5
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Li M, Ding W, Deng Y, Zhao Y, Liu Q, Zhou Z. The AAA-ATPase Ter94 regulates wing size in Drosophila by suppressing the Hippo pathway. Commun Biol 2024; 7:533. [PMID: 38710747 PMCID: PMC11074327 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06246-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Insect wing development is a fascinating and intricate process that involves the regulation of wing size through cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, we find that Ter94, an AAA-ATPase, is essential for proper wing size dependently on its ATPase activity. Loss of Ter94 enables the suppression of Hippo target genes. When Ter94 is depleted, it results in reduced wing size and increased apoptosis, which can be rescued by inhibiting the Hippo pathway. Biochemical experiments reveal that Ter94 reciprocally binds to Mer, a critical upstream component of the Hippo pathway, and disrupts its interaction with Ex and Kib. This disruption prevents the formation of the Ex-Mer-Kib complex, ultimately leading to the inactivation of the Hippo pathway and promoting proper wing development. Finally, we show that hVCP, the human homolog of Ter94, is able to substitute for Ter94 in modulating Drosophila wing size, underscoring their functional conservation. In conclusion, Ter94 plays a positive role in regulating wing size by interfering with the Ex-Mer-Kib complex, which results in the suppression of the Hippo pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Wenhao Ding
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Yanran Deng
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation and Bioresource Utilization of Jiangxi Province, College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yunhe Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Qingxin Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China.
| | - Zizhang Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation and Bioresource Utilization of Jiangxi Province, College of Life Sciences, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China.
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6
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Kovács Z, Bajusz C, Szabó A, Borkúti P, Vedelek B, Benke R, Lipinszki Z, Kristó I, Vilmos P. A bipartite NLS motif mediates the nuclear import of Drosophila moesin. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1206067. [PMID: 38450250 PMCID: PMC10915024 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1206067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The ERM protein family, which consists of three closely related proteins in vertebrates, ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM), is an ancient and important group of cytoplasmic actin-binding and organizing proteins. With their FERM domain, ERMs bind various transmembrane proteins and anchor them to the actin cortex through their C-terminal F-actin binding domain, thus they are major regulators of actin dynamics in the cell. ERMs participate in many fundamental cellular processes, such as phagocytosis, microvilli formation, T-cell activation and tumor metastasis. We have previously shown that, besides its cytoplasmic activities, the single ERM protein of Drosophila melanogaster, moesin, is also present in the cell nucleus, where it participates in gene expression and mRNA export. Here we study the mechanism by which moesin enters the nucleus. We show that the nuclear import of moesin is an NLS-mediated, active process. The nuclear localization sequence of the moesin protein is an evolutionarily highly conserved, conventional bipartite motif located on the surface of the FERM domain. Our experiments also reveal that the nuclear import of moesin does not require PIP2 binding or protein activation, and occurs in monomeric form. We propose, that the balance between the phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated protein pools determines the degree of nuclear import of moesin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Kovács
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bajusz
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anikó Szabó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | | | - Réka Benke
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Lipinszki
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biochemistry, MTA SZBK Lendület Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Péter Vilmos
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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Le DDT, Le TPH, Lee SY. PIP5Kγ Mediates PI(4,5)P2/Merlin/LATS1 Signaling Activation and Interplays with Hsc70 in Hippo-YAP Pathway Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14786. [PMID: 37834234 PMCID: PMC10572892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The type I phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K) family produces the critical lipid regulator phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) in the plasma membrane (PM). Here, we investigated the potential role of PIP5Kγ, a PIP5K isoform, in the Hippo pathway. The ectopic expression of PIP5Kγ87 or PIP5Kγ90, two major PIP5Kγ splice variants, activated large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) and inhibited Yes-associated protein (YAP), whereas PIP5Kγ knockdown yielded opposite effects. The regulatory effects of PIP5Kγ were dependent on its catalytic activity and the presence of Merlin and LATS1. PIP5Kγ knockdown weakened the restoration of YAP phosphorylation upon stimulation with epidermal growth factor or lysophosphatidic acid. We further found that PIP5Kγ90 bound to the Merlin's band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin (FERM) domain, forming a complex with PI(4,5)P2 and LATS1 at the PM. Notably, PIP5Kγ90, but not its kinase-deficient mutant, potentiated Merlin-LATS1 interaction and recruited LATS1 to the PM. Consistently, PIP5Kγ knockdown or inhibitor (UNC3230) enhanced colony formation in carcinoma cell lines YAP-dependently. In addition, PIP5Kγ90 interacted with heat shock cognate 71-kDa protein (Hsc70), which also contributed to Hippo pathway activation. Collectively, our results suggest that PIP5Kγ regulates the Hippo-YAP pathway by forming a functional complex with Merlin and LATS1 at the PI(4,5)P2-rich PM and via interplay with Hsc70.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duong Duy Thai Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
| | - Truc Phan Hoang Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
| | - Sang Yoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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Le TPH, Nguyen NTT, Le DDT, Anwar MA, Lee SY. Lipid kinase PIP5Kα contributes to Hippo pathway activation via interaction with Merlin and by mediating plasma membrane targeting of LATS1. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:149. [PMID: 37337213 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01161-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway plays a critical role in controlled cell proliferation. The tumor suppressor Merlin and large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) mediate activation of Hippo pathway, consequently inhibiting the primary effectors, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), a lipid present in the plasma membrane (PM), binds to and activates Merlin. Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase α (PIP5Kα) is an enzyme responsible for PIP2 production. However, the functional role of PIP5Kα in regulation of Merlin and LATS1 under Hippo signaling conditions remains unclear. METHODS PIP5Kα, Merlin, or LATS1 knockout or knockdown cells and transfected cells with them were used. LATS1, YAP, and TAZ activities were measured using biochemical methods and PIP2 levels were evaluated using cell imaging. Low/high cell density and serum starvation/stimulation conditions were tested. Colocalization of PIP5Kα and PIP2 with Merlin and LATS1, and their protein interactions were examined using transfection, confocal imaging, immunoprecipitation, western blotting, and/or pull-down experiments. Colony formation and adipocyte differentiation assays were performed. RESULTS We found that PIP5Kα induced LATS1 activation and YAP/TAZ inhibition in a kinase activity-dependent manner. Consistent with these findings, PIP5Kα suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced adipocyte differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, PIP5Kα protein stability and PIP2 levels were elevated at high cell density compared with those at low cell density, and both PIP2 and YAP phosphorylation levels initially declined, then recovered upon serum stimulation. Under these conditions, YAP/TAZ activity was aberrantly regulated by PIP5Kα deficiency. Mechanistically, either Merlin deficiency or LATS1 deficiency abrogated PIP5Kα-mediated YAP/TAZ inactivation. Additionally, the catalytic domain of PIP5Kα directly interacted with the band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin domain of Merlin, and this interaction reinforced interaction of Merlin with LATS1. In accordance with these findings, PIP5Kα and PIP2 colocalized with Merlin and LATS1 in the PM. In PIP5Kα-deficient cells, Merlin colocalization with PIP2 was reduced, and LATS1 solubility increased. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results support that PIP5Kα serves as an activator of the Hippo pathway through interaction and colocalization with Merlin, which promotes PIP2-dependent Merlin activation and induces local recruitment of LATS1 to the PIP2-rich PM and its activation, thereby negatively regulating YAP/TAZ activity. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truc Phan Hoang Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Nga Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Duong Duy Thai Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyung Hee University International Campus, Yongin, Gyeonggi, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea.
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Xu X, Li H, Xie M, Zhou Z, Wang D, Mao W. LncRNAs and related molecular basis in malignant pleural mesothelioma: challenges and potential. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 186:104012. [PMID: 37116816 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare but invasive cancer, which mainly arises from mesothelial tissues of pleura, peritoneum and pericardium. Despite significant advances in treatments, the prognosis of MPM patients remains poor, and the 5-year survival rate is less than 10%. Therefore, it is urgent to explore novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of MPM. Growing evidence has indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) potentially could be promising therapeutic targets for numerous cancers. In this regard, lncRNAs might also potentially therapeutic targets for MPM. Recent advances have been made to investigate the molecular basis of MPM. This review first provides a comprehensive overview of roles of lncRNAs in MPM and then discusses the relationship between molecular basis of MPM and MPM-related lncRNAs to implement them as promising therapeutic targets for MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Xu
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Huihui Li
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Mingying Xie
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Zichao Zhou
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
| | - Ding Wang
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weimin Mao
- Key Laboratory on Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Cancer, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital (Zhejiang Cancer Research Institute), Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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10
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Wang K, Ma F, Arai S, Wang Y, Varkaris A, Poluben L, Voznesensky O, Xie F, Zhang X, Yuan X, Balk SP. WNT5a Signaling through ROR2 Activates the Hippo Pathway to Suppress YAP1 Activity and Tumor Growth. Cancer Res 2023; 83:1016-1030. [PMID: 36622276 PMCID: PMC10073315 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Noncanonical Wnt signaling by WNT5a has oncogenic and tumor suppressive activities, but downstream pathways mediating these specific effects remain to be fully established. In a subset of prostate cancer organoid culture and xenograft models, inhibition of Wnt synthesis stimulated growth, whereas WNT5a or a WNT5a mimetic peptide (Foxy5) markedly suppressed tumor growth. WNT5a caused a ROR2-dependent decrease in YAP1 activity, which was associated with increased phosphorylation of MST1/2, LATS1, MOB1, and YAP1, indicating Hippo pathway activation. Deletion of MST1/2 abrogated the WNT5a response. WNT5a similarly activated Hippo in ROR2-expressing melanoma cells, whereas WNT5a in ROR2-negative cells suppressed Hippo. This suppression was associated with increased inhibitory phosphorylation of NF2/Merlin that was not observed in ROR2-expressing cells. WNT5a also increased mRNA encoding Hippo pathway components including MST1 and MST2 and was positively correlated with these components in prostate cancer clinical datasets. Conversely, ROR2 and WNT5a expression was stimulated by YAP1, and correlated with increased YAP1 activity in clinical datasets, revealing a WNT5a/ROR2 negative feedback loop to modulate YAP1 activity. Together these findings identify Hippo pathway activation as a mechanism that mediates the tumor suppressive effects of WNT5a and indicate that expression of ROR2 may be a predictive biomarker for responsiveness to WNT5a-mimetic drugs. SIGNIFICANCE WNT5a signaling through ROR2 activates the Hippo pathway to downregulate YAP1/TAZ activity and suppress tumor growth, identifying ROR2 as a potential biomarker to identify patients that could benefit from WNT5a-related agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshan Wang
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Fen Ma
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Seiji Arai
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Hospital, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yun Wang
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR, China
| | - Andreas Varkaris
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Larysa Poluben
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Olga Voznesensky
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Fang Xie
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Steven P. Balk
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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11
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Alwahsh M, Farhat J, Talhouni S, Hamadneh L, Hergenröder R. Bortezomib advanced mechanisms of action in multiple myeloma, solid and liquid tumors along with its novel therapeutic applications. EXCLI JOURNAL 2023; 22:146-168. [PMID: 36998701 PMCID: PMC10043448 DOI: 10.17179/excli2022-5653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Bortezomib (BTZ) is a first-in-class reversible and selective proteasome inhibitor. It inhibits the ubiquitin proteasome pathway that leads to the degradation of many intracellular proteins. Initially, BTZ was FDA approved for the treatment of refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma (MM) in 2003. Later, its usage was approved for patients with previously untreated MM. In 2006, BTZ was approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) and, in 2014, for previously untreated MCL. BTZ has been extensively studied either alone or in combination with other drugs for the treatment of different liquid tumors especially in MM. However, limited data evaluated the efficacy and safety of using BTZ in patients with solid tumors. In this review, we will discuss the advanced and novel mechanisms of action of BTZ documented in MM, solid tumors and liquid tumors. Moreover, we will shed the light on the newly discovered pharmacological effects of BTZ in other prevalent diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alwahsh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V., 44139 Dortmund, Germany
- Institute of Pathology and Medical Research Center (ZMF), University Medical Center Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed: Mohammad Alwahsh, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan, E-mail:
| | - Joviana Farhat
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, PO Box 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shahd Talhouni
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan
| | - Lama Hamadneh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan
| | - Roland Hergenröder
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V., 44139 Dortmund, Germany
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12
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Catasús N, Rosas I, Bonache S, Negro A, Torres-Martin M, Plana-Pla A, Salvador H, Serra E, Blanco I, Castellanos E. Antisense oligonucleotides targeting exon 11 are able to partially rescue the NF2-related schwannomatosis phenotype in vitro. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 30:493-505. [PMID: 36420221 PMCID: PMC9678674 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2-related SWN) is an autosomal dominant condition caused by loss of function variants in the NF2 gene, which codes for the protein Merlin and is characterized by the development of multiple tumors of the nervous system. The clinical presentation of the disease is variable and related to the type of the inherited germline variant. Here, we tested if phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) could be used to correct the splice signaling caused by variants at ±13 within the intron-exon boundary region and showed that the PMOs designed for these variants do not constitute a therapeutic approach. Furthermore, we evaluated the use of PMOs to decrease the severity of the effects of NF2 truncating variants with the aim of generating milder hypomorphic isoforms in vitro through the induction of the in-frame deletion of the exon-carrying variant. We were able to specifically induce the skipping of exons 4, 8, and 11 maintaining the NF2 gene reading frame at cDNA level. Only the skipping of exon 11 produced a hypomorphic Merlin (Merlin-e11), which is able to partially rescue the observed phenotype in primary fibroblast cultures from NF2-related SWN patients, being encouraging for the treatment of patients harboring truncating variants located in exon 11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria Catasús
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Inma Rosas
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Sandra Bonache
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Alex Negro
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Miguel Torres-Martin
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Adrià Plana-Pla
- Dermatology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Hector Salvador
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Serra
- Hereditary Cancer Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP-PMPPC), Can Ruti Campus, Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Ignacio Blanco
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Castellanos
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
| | - NF2-related SWN Spanish National Reference Centre HUGTP-ICO-IGTP
- Clinical Genomics Research Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Crta. Canyet, s/n. Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Dermatology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital (HUGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues, Barcelona, Spain
- Hereditary Cancer Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP-PMPPC), Can Ruti Campus, Badalona, Barcelona 08916, Spain
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13
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Dougherty MC, Shibata SB, Clark JJ, Canady FJ, Yates CW, Hansen MR. Reduction of sporadic and neurofibromatosis type 2-associated vestibular schwannoma growth in vitro and in vivo after treatment with the c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor AS602801. J Neurosurg 2022; 138:962-971. [PMID: 36087315 DOI: 10.3171/2022.7.jns22934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) are benign nerve sheath tumors that result from mutation in the tumor suppressor gene NF2, with functional loss of the protein merlin. The authors have previously shown that c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) is constitutively active in human VS cells and plays a central role in their survival by suppressing accumulation of mitochondrial superoxides, implicating JNK inhibitors as a potential systemic treatment for VS. Thus, the authors hypothesized that the adenosine 5'-triphosphate-competitive JNK inhibitor AS602801 would demonstrate antitumor activity in multiple VS models. METHODS Treatment with AS602801 was tested in primary human VS cultures, human VS xenografts, and a genetic mouse model of schwannoma (Postn-Cre;Nf2flox/flox). Primary human VS cell cultures were established from freshly obtained surgical tumor specimens; treatment group media was enriched with AS602801. VS xenograft tumors were established in male athymic nude mice from freshly collected human tumor. Four weeks postimplantation, a pretreatment MRI scan was obtained, followed by 65 days of AS602801 (n = 18) or vehicle control (n = 19) treatment. Posttreatment MRI scans were used to measure final tumor volume. Tumors were then harvested. Finally, Postn-Cre;Nf2flox/flox mice were treated with AS602801 (n = 10) or a vehicle (n = 13) for 65 days. Posttreatment auditory brainstem responses were obtained. Dorsal root ganglia from Postn-Cre;Nf2flox/flox mice were then harvested. In all models, schwannoma identity was confirmed with anti-S100 staining, cell proliferation was measured with the EdU assay, and cell death was measured with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining. All protocols were approved by the local institutional review board and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees. RESULTS Treatment with AS602801 decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis in primary human VS cultures. The systemic administration of AS602801 in mice with human VS xenografts reduced tumor volume and cell proliferation. Last, the AS602801-treated Postn-Cre;Nf2flox/flox mice demonstrated decreased cell proliferation in glial cells in the dorsal root ganglia. However, AS602801 did not significantly delay hearing loss in Postn-Cre;Nf2flox/flox mice up to 3 months posttreatment. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that JNK inhibition with AS602801 suppresses growth of sporadic and neurofibromatosis type 2-associated VSs. As such, AS602801 is a potential systemic therapy for VS and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seiji B Shibata
- 2Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; and
| | - J Jason Clark
- 2Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; and
| | - Franklin J Canady
- 2Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; and
| | - Charles W Yates
- 3Department of Otolaryngology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Marlan R Hansen
- 2Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; and
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14
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Liu X, Zhang Y, Wu X, Xu F, Ma H, Wu M, Xia Y. Targeting Ferroptosis Pathway to Combat Therapy Resistance and Metastasis of Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:909821. [PMID: 35847022 PMCID: PMC9280276 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.909821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent regulated form of cell death caused by excessive lipid peroxidation. This form of cell death differed from known forms of cell death in morphological and biochemical features such as apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy. Cancer cells require higher levels of iron to survive, which makes them highly susceptible to ferroptosis. Therefore, it was found to be closely related to the progression, treatment response, and metastasis of various cancer types. Numerous studies have found that the ferroptosis pathway is closely related to drug resistance and metastasis of cancer. Some cancer cells reduce their susceptibility to ferroptosis by downregulating the ferroptosis pathway, resulting in resistance to anticancer therapy. Induction of ferroptosis restores the sensitivity of drug-resistant cancer cells to standard treatments. Cancer cells that are resistant to conventional therapies or have a high propensity to metastasize might be particularly susceptible to ferroptosis. Some biological processes and cellular components, such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and noncoding RNAs, can influence cancer metastasis by regulating ferroptosis. Therefore, targeting ferroptosis may help suppress cancer metastasis. Those progresses revealed the importance of ferroptosis in cancer, In order to provide the detailed molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in regulating therapy resistance and metastasis and strategies to overcome these barriers are not fully understood, we described the key molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and its interaction with signaling pathways related to therapy resistance and metastasis. Furthermore, we summarized strategies for reversing resistance to targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy and inhibiting cancer metastasis by modulating ferroptosis. Understanding the comprehensive regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways of ferroptosis in cancer can provide new insights to enhance the efficacy of anticancer drugs, overcome drug resistance, and inhibit cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiqian Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Fuyan Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongbo Ma
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengling Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Xia,
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15
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Bae JH, Yang MJ, Jeong SH, Kim J, Hong SP, Kim JW, Kim YH, Koh GY. Gatekeeping role of Nf2/Merlin in vascular tip EC induction through suppression of VEGFR2 internalization. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn2611. [PMID: 35687678 PMCID: PMC9187237 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn2611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In sprouting angiogenesis, the precise mechanisms underlying how intracellular vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling is higher in one endothelial cell (EC) compared with its neighbor and acquires the tip EC phenotype under a similar external cue are elusive. Here, we show that Merlin, encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene, suppresses VEGFR2 internalization depending on VE-cadherin density and inhibits tip EC induction. Accordingly, endothelial Nf2 depletion promotes tip EC induction with excessive filopodia by enhancing VEGFR2 internalization in both the growing and matured vessels. Mechanistically, Merlin binds to the VEGFR2-VE-cadherin complex at cell-cell junctions and reduces VEGFR2 internalization-induced downstream signaling during tip EC induction. As a consequence, nonfunctional excessive sprouting occurs during tumor angiogenesis in EC-specific Nf2-deleted mice, leading to delayed tumor growth. Together, Nf2/Merlin is a crucial molecular gatekeeper for tip EC induction, capillary integrity, and proper tumor angiogenesis by suppressing VEGFR2 internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hyun Bae
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Jin Yang
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-hwan Jeong
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - JungMo Kim
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Pyo Hong
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woo Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo Hyung Kim
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Gou Young Koh
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Vascular Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
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16
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Zhao F, Chen Y, Li SW, Zhang J, Zhang S, Zhao XB, Yang ZJ, Wang B, He QY, Wang LM, Xu L, Liu PN. Novel patient-derived xenograft and cell line models for therapeutic screening in NF2-associated schwannoma. J Pathol 2022; 257:620-634. [PMID: 35394061 DOI: 10.1002/path.5908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of schwannomas in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is extremely unsatisfactory, and innovative therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. However, the lack of clinically relevant NF2-associated schwannoma models has severely hampered drug discovery in this rare disease. Here, we report the first establishment and characterization of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and cell line models of NF2-associated schwannoma, which recapitulate the morphological and histopathological features of patient tumors, retain patient NF2 mutations, and maintain gene expression profiles resembling patient tumor profiles with the preservation of multiple key signaling pathways commonly dysregulated in human schwannomas. Using gene expression profiling, we identified elevated PI3K/AKT/mTOR networks in human NF2-associated vestibular schwannomas. Using high-throughput screening of 157 inhibitors targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways in vitro, we identified a dozen inhibitors (such as BEZ235, LY2090314, and AZD8055) with significant growth-suppressive effects. Interestingly, we observed that three cell lines displayed differential therapeutic responses to PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors. Furthermore, we demonstrated two orally bioavailable inhibitors AZD8055 and PQR309 suppressed NF2-associated schwannoma growth both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our novel patient-derived models of NF2-associated schwannoma closely mimic the phenotypes and genotypes of patient tumors, making them reliable preclinical tools for testing novel personalized therapies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Zhao
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Wei Li
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shun Zhang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Bin Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Yang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi-Yang He
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei-Ming Wang
- Departments of Pathology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Pi-Nan Liu
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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17
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Qin Y, Pei Z, Feng Z, Lin P, Wang S, Li Y, Huo F, Wang Q, Wang Z, Chen ZN, Wu J, Wang YF. Oncogenic Activation of YAP Signaling Sensitizes Ferroptosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via ALOXE3-Mediated Lipid Peroxidation Accumulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:751593. [PMID: 34977009 PMCID: PMC8717939 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.751593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death process driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, plays an important role in tumor suppression. Although previous study showed that intracellular Merlin-Hippo signaling suppresses ferroptosis of epithelial tumor cells through the inactivation of YAP signaling, it remains elusive if the proto-oncogenic transcriptional co-activator YAP could serve as a potential biomarker to predict cancer cell response to ferroptosis-inducing therapies. In this study, we show that both total YAP staining and nuclear YAP staining were more prevalent in HCC tissues than in nontumorous regions. Compared to low-density HCC cells, high-density cells showed decreased nuclear localization of YAP and conferred significant resistance to ferroptosis. Oncogenic activation of YAP signaling by overexpression of YAP(S127A) mutant sensitized ferroptosis of HCC cells cultured in confluent density or in the 3D tumor spheroid model. Furthermore, we validated the lipoxygenase ALOXE3 as a YAP-TEAD target gene that contributed to YAP-promoted ferroptosis. Overexpression of ALOXE3 effectively increased the vulnerability of HCC cells to ferroptotic cell death. In an orthotopic mouse model of HCC, genetic activation of YAP rendered HCC cells more susceptible to ferroptosis. Finally, an overall survival assay further revealed that both a high expression of YAP and a low expression of GPX4 were correlated with increased survival of HCC patients with sorafenib treatment, which had been proven to be an inducer for ferroptosis by inhibition of the xc-amino acid antiporter. Together, this study unveils the critical role of intracellular YAP signaling in dictating ferroptotic cell death; it also suggests that pathogenic alterations of YAP signaling can serve as biomarkers to predict cancer cell responsiveness to future ferroptosis-inducing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Guangzhou (Jinan) Biomedical Research and Development Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo Pei
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuan Feng
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng Lin
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shijie Wang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yong Li
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Huo
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quancheng Wang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Nan Chen
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiao Wu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi-Fei Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou (Jinan) Biomedical Research and Development Center, Guangzhou, China
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18
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Carlstrom LP, Muñoz-Casabella A, Perry A, Graffeo CS, Link MJ. Dramatic Growth of a Vestibular Schwannoma After 16 Years of Postradiosurgery Stability in Association With Exposure to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors. Otol Neurotol 2021; 42:e1609-e1613. [PMID: 34766951 PMCID: PMC8597893 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000003304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is a benign nerve-sheath tumor that sporadically displays aggressive behavior - often attributable to intrinsic tumor biology and an unfavorable immune microenvironment. However, the potential for idiosyncratic responses on VS growth to novel biologics is largely unknown. METHODS Case report. RESULTS A 57-year-old man underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for a small intracanalicular presumed VS, which presented with left-sided hearing loss and episodic vertigo. Treatment response was excellent, with >50% reduction in tumor volume and confirmed stability at 14 years post-SRS radiographic follow-up. The patient subsequently developed an unrelated metastatic gastrointestinal tumor, and was started on tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Within 12-months of regorafenib treatment, and 16-years since SRS, the patient developed ipsilateral House-Brackmann Grade IV facial weakness. Dramatic VS expansion from 14 to 25 mm in maximum diameter, with new brain stem compression, was seen on MRI. Due to poor prognosis of his gastrointestinal malignancy, he declined surgical resection, and elected for palliative salvage SRS. CONCLUSION We report the case of VS with radiographically proven stability for >14 years that underwent dramatic tumor progression after treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The dynamics between systemic immunomodulation and VS disease phenotype remain incompletely understood, and there may be potential for unintended iatrogenic VS progression.
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Chen D, Yu W, Aitken L, Gunn-Moore F. Willin/FRMD6: A Multi-Functional Neuronal Protein Associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113024. [PMID: 34831245 PMCID: PMC8616527 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The FERM domain-containing protein 6 (FRMD6), also known as Willin, is an upstream regulator of Hippo signaling that has recently been shown to modulate actin cytoskeleton dynamics and mechanical phenotype of neuronal cells through ERK signaling. Physiological functions of Willin/FRMD6 in the nervous system include neuronal differentiation, myelination, nerve injury repair, and vesicle exocytosis. The newly established neuronal role of Willin/FRMD6 is of particular interest given the mounting evidence suggesting a role for Willin/FRMD6 in Alzheimer's disease (AD), including a series of genome wide association studies that position Willin/FRMD6 as a novel AD risk gene. Here we describe recent findings regarding the role of Willin/FRMD6 in the nervous system and its actions in cellular perturbations related to the pathogenesis of AD.
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20
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The Role of E-Cadherin and microRNA on FAK Inhibitor Response in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910225. [PMID: 34638565 PMCID: PMC8508233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive malignancy with limited effective treatment options. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitors have been shown to efficiently suppress MPM cell growth initially, with limited utility in the current clinical setting. In this study, we utilised a large collection of MPM cell lines and MPM tissue samples to study the role of E-cadherin (CDH1) and microRNA on the efficacy of FAK inhibitors in MPM. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) results showed that the majority of MPM FFPE samples exhibited either the absence of, or very low, E-cadherin protein expression in MPM tissue. We showed that MPM cells with high CDH1 mRNA levels exhibited resistance to the FAK inhibitor PND-1186. In summary, MPM cells that did not express CDH1 mRNA were sensitive to PND-1186, and MPM cells that retained CDH1 mRNA were resistant. A cell cycle analysis showed that PND-1186 induced cell cycle disruption by inducing the G2/M arrest of MPM cells. A protein−protein interaction study showed that EGFR is linked to the FAK pathway, and a target scan of the microRNAs revealed that microRNAs (miR-17, miR221, miR-222, miR137, and miR148) interact with EGFR 3′UTR. Transfection of MPM cells with these microRNAs sensitised the CHD1-expressing FAK-inhibitor-resistant MPM cells to the FAK inhibitor.
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21
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Roehrig AE, Klupsch K, Oses-Prieto JA, Chaib S, Henderson S, Emmett W, Young LC, Surinova S, Blees A, Pfeiffer A, Tijani M, Brunk F, Hartig N, Muñoz-Alegre M, Hergovich A, Jennings BH, Burlingame AL, Rodriguez-Viciana P. Cell-cell adhesion regulates Merlin/NF2 interaction with the PAF complex. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254697. [PMID: 34424918 PMCID: PMC8382200 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The PAF complex (PAFC) coordinates transcription elongation and mRNA processing and its CDC73/parafibromin subunit functions as a tumour suppressor. The NF2/Merlin tumour suppressor functions both at the cell cortex and nucleus and is a key mediator of contact inhibition but the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study we have used affinity proteomics to identify novel Merlin interacting proteins and show that Merlin forms a complex with multiple proteins involved in RNA processing including the PAFC and the CHD1 chromatin remodeller. Tumour-derived inactivating mutations in both Merlin and the CDC73 PAFC subunit mutually disrupt their interaction and growth suppression by Merlin requires CDC73. Merlin interacts with the PAFC in a cell density-dependent manner and we identify a role for FAT cadherins in regulating the Merlin-PAFC interaction. Our results suggest that in addition to its function within the Hippo pathway, Merlin is part of a tumour suppressor network regulated by cell-cell adhesion which coordinates post-initiation steps of the transcription cycle of genes mediating contact inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne E. Roehrig
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina Klupsch
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Juan A. Oses-Prieto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Selim Chaib
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Henderson
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Warren Emmett
- University College London Genetics Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy C. Young
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Silvia Surinova
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Blees
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anett Pfeiffer
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maha Tijani
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fabian Brunk
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicole Hartig
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Alma L. Burlingame
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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22
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Catasús N, Garcia B, Galván-Femenía I, Plana A, Negro A, Rosas I, Ros A, Amilibia E, Becerra JL, Hostalot C, Rocaribas F, Bielsa I, Lazaro Garcia C, de Cid R, Serra E, Blanco I, Castellanos E. Revisiting the UK Genetic Severity Score for NF2: a proposal for the addition of a functional genetic component. J Med Genet 2021; 59:678-686. [PMID: 34348961 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2020-107548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by the development of multiple schwannomas, especially on vestibular nerves, and meningiomas. The UK NF2 Genetic Severity Score (GSS) is useful to predict the progression of the disease from germline NF2 pathogenic variants, which allows the clinical follow-up and the genetic counselling offered to affected families to be optimised. METHODS 52 Spanish patients were classified using the GSS, and patients' clinical severity was measured and compared between GSS groups. The GSS was reviewed with the addition of phenotype quantification, genetic variant classification and functional assays of Merlin and its downstream pathways. Principal component analysis and regression models were used to evaluate the differences between severity and the effect of NF2 germline variants. RESULTS The GSS was validated in the Spanish NF2 cohort. However, for 25% of mosaic patients and patients harbouring variants associated with mild and moderate phenotypes, it did not perform as well for predicting clinical outcomes as it did for pathogenic variants associated with severe phenotypes. We studied the possibility of modifying the mutation classification in the GSS by adding the impact of pathogenic variants on the function of Merlin in 27 cases. This revision helped to reduce variability within NF2 mutation classes and moderately enhanced the correlation between patient phenotype and the different prognosis parameters analysed (R2=0.38 vs R2=0.32, p>0001). CONCLUSIONS We validated the UK NF2 GSS in a Spanish NF2 cohort, despite the significant phenotypic variability identified within it. The revision of the GSS, named Functional Genetic Severity Score, could add value for the classification of mosaic patients and patients showing mild and moderate phenotypes once it has been validated in other cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria Catasús
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain
| | - Belen Garcia
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain.,Genetic Counseling Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Iván Galván-Femenía
- Genomes for Life-GCAT lab Group, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Adrià Plana
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Alejandro Negro
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain.,Genetic Counseling Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Inma Rosas
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain.,Clinical Genomics Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Andrea Ros
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain.,Genetic Counseling Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Emilio Amilibia
- Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Becerra
- Neurology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Cristina Hostalot
- Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Francesc Rocaribas
- Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Isabel Bielsa
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Conxi Lazaro Garcia
- Hereditary Cancer Program, ICO-IDIBELL-CIBERONC, Catalan Institute of Oncology, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael de Cid
- Genomes for Life-GCAT lab Group, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Eduard Serra
- Hereditary Cancer Group, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Blanco
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain.,Genetic Counseling Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Castellanos
- Clinical Genomics Research Unit, Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP-PMPPC), Badalona, Spain .,Clinical Genomics Unit, Clinical Genetics Service, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
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Dougherty MC, Shibata SB, Hansen MR. The biological underpinnings of radiation therapy for vestibular schwannomas: Review of the literature. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2021; 6:458-468. [PMID: 34195368 PMCID: PMC8223465 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Radiation therapy is a mainstay in the treatment of numerous neoplasms. Numerous publications have reported good clinical outcomes for primary radiation therapy for Vestibular Schwannomas (VS). However, there are relatively few pathologic specimens of VSs available to evaluate post-radiation, which has led to a relative dearth in research on the cellular mechanisms underlying the effects of radiation therapy on VSs. METHODS Here we review the latest literature on the complex biological effects of radiation therapy on these benign tumors-including resistance to oxidative stress, mechanisms of DNA damage repair, alterations in normal growth factor pathways, changes in surrounding vasculature, and alterations in immune responses following radiation. RESULTS Although VSs are highly radioresistant, radiotherapy is often successful in arresting their growth. CONCLUSION By better understanding the mechanisms underlying these effects, we could potentially harness such mechanisms in the future to potentiate the clinical effects of radiotherapy on VSs. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C. Dougherty
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity of Iowa Hospitals & ClinicsIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Seiji B. Shibata
- Department of Otolaryngology, Keck School of Medicine of USCUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Marlan R. Hansen
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck SurgeryUniversity of Iowa Hospitals & ClinicsIowa CityIowaUSA
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24
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Malignant pleural mesothelioma co-opts BCL-X L and autophagy to escape apoptosis. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:406. [PMID: 33859162 PMCID: PMC8050302 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03668-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Escape from programmed cell death is a hallmark of cancer. In this study, we investigated the anti-apoptotic mechanisms and explored the therapeutic potential of BCL-2 homology domain-3 (BH3) mimetics in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), a lethal thoracic malignancy with an extreme dearth of treatment options. By implementing integrated analysis of functional genomic data of MPM cells and quantitative proteomics of patients’ tumors, we identified BCL-XL as an anti-apoptotic driver that is overexpressed and confers an oncogenic dependency in MPM. MPM cells harboring genetic alterations that inactivate the NF2/LATS1/2 signaling are associated with increased sensitivity to A-1155463, a BCL-XL-selective BH3 mimetic. Importantly, BCL-XL inhibition elicits protective autophagy, and concomitant blockade of BCL-XL and autophagic machinery with A-1155463 and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved autophagy inhibitor, synergistically enhances anti-MPM effects in vitro and in vivo. Together, our work delineates the molecular basis underlying resistance to apoptosis and uncovers an evasive mechanism that limits response to BH3 mimetics in MPM, suggesting a novel strategy to target this aggressive disease.
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25
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Mota M, Metge BJ, Hinshaw DC, Alsheikh HA, Chen D, Samant RS, Shevde LA. Merlin deficiency alters the redox management program in breast cancer. Mol Oncol 2021; 15:942-956. [PMID: 33410252 PMCID: PMC8024723 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of Merlin tumor suppressor protein encoded by Neurofibromin 2 (NF2) gene is remarkably decreased in metastatic breast cancer tissues. In order to recapitulate clinical evidence, we generated a unique, conditional Nf2‐knockout (Nf2−/−) mouse mammary tumor model. Merlin‐deficient breast tumor cells and Nf2−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) displayed a robustly invasive phenotype. Moreover, Nf2−/− MEFs presented with notable alterations in redox management networks, implicating a role for Merlin in redox homeostasis. This programmatic alteration resonated with pathways that emerged from breast tumor cells engineered for Merlin deficiency. Further investigations revealed that NF2‐silenced cells supported reduced activity of the Nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 antioxidant transcription factor, concomitant with elevated expression of NADPH oxidase enzymes. Importantly, mammary‐specific Nf2−/− in an Mouse mammary tumor virus Neu + murine breast cancer model demonstrated accelerated mammary carcinogenesis in vivo. Tumor‐derived primary organoids and cell lines were characteristically invasive with evidence of a dysregulated cellular redox management system. As such, Merlin deficiency programmatically influences redox imbalance that orchestrates malignant attributes of mammary/breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus Mota
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Brandon J Metge
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Heba A Alsheikh
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Dongquan Chen
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajeev S Samant
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,Birmingham VA Medical Center, AL, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
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26
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Abstract
Simple Summary Cell migration is an essential process from embryogenesis to cell death. This is tightly regulated by numerous proteins that help in proper functioning of the cell. In diseases like cancer, this process is deregulated and helps in the dissemination of tumor cells from the primary site to secondary sites initiating the process of metastasis. For metastasis to be efficient, cytoskeletal components like actin, myosin, and intermediate filaments and their associated proteins should co-ordinate in an orderly fashion leading to the formation of many cellular protrusions-like lamellipodia and filopodia and invadopodia. Knowledge of this process is the key to control metastasis of cancer cells that leads to death in 90% of the patients. The focus of this review is giving an overall understanding of these process, concentrating on the changes in protein association and regulation and how the tumor cells use it to their advantage. Since the expression of cytoskeletal proteins can be directly related to the degree of malignancy, knowledge about these proteins will provide powerful tools to improve both cancer prognosis and treatment. Abstract Successful metastasis depends on cell invasion, migration, host immune escape, extravasation, and angiogenesis. The process of cell invasion and migration relies on the dynamic changes taking place in the cytoskeletal components; actin, tubulin and intermediate filaments. This is possible due to the plasticity of the cytoskeleton and coordinated action of all the three, is crucial for the process of metastasis from the primary site. Changes in cellular architecture by internal clues will affect the cell functions leading to the formation of different protrusions like lamellipodia, filopodia, and invadopodia that help in cell migration eventually leading to metastasis, which is life threatening than the formation of neoplasms. Understanding the signaling mechanisms involved, will give a better insight of the changes during metastasis, which will eventually help targeting proteins for treatment resulting in reduced mortality and longer survival.
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27
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Rao HC, Wu ZK, Wei SD, Jiang Y, Guo QX, Wang JW, Chen CX, Yang HY. MiR-25-3p Serves as an Oncogenic MicroRNA by Downregulating the Expression of Merlin in Osteosarcoma. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:8989-9001. [PMID: 33061594 PMCID: PMC7522417 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s262245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein (Merlin) has been identified as a tumor suppressor in several types of cancers. However, the biological function of Merlin in osteosarcoma remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can influence cancer progression by targeting oncogenes or anti-oncogenes. In this study, we sought to evaluate the regulation of Merlin expression by miR-25-3p and the role of the miR-25-3p/Merlin axis in osteosarcoma progression, with the aim of identifying a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database was used to analyze the correlation between Merlin expression and prognosis. RT-qPCR and Western blotting analyses were performed to compare Merlin expression between normal and malignant cells. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to evaluate the direct targeting of Merlin by miR-25-3p. We overexpressed miR-25-3p, or/and Merlin, in U-2 OS and 143B cells, and studied their cellular functions in vitro. MTT and colony formation assays were performed to determine the effects on cell growth. EdU and cell cycle assays were performed to analyze the effects in cell replication. We used annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide to stain apoptotic cells, and analyzed the cells using flow cytometry. The effects on cell metastasis were studied in wound healing and transwell assays. Lastly, the underlying mechanism was determined in RT-qPCR and Western blotting experiments. RESULTS Low Merlin expression was linked to poor prognosis. miR-25-3p was observed to directly target Merlin and downregulate its expression. miR-25-3p promoted cell growth, migration, and invasion, and inhibited apoptosis induced by cisplatin. Moreover, the overexpression of Merlin reversed the abovementioned effects of miR-25-3p. Further, the miR-25-3p/Merlin axis was observed to play an important role in the Hippo pathway, and regulated the expression of genes such as BIRC5, CTGF, and CYR61. CONCLUSION miR-25-3p functions as an oncogenic microRNA in osteosarcoma by targeting Merlin, and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Chun Rao
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao-Ke Wu
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-da Wei
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Jiang
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Xin Guo
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Wen Wang
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Xian Chen
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Yong Yang
- School of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, People's Republic of China
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28
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Xu D, Yang H, Schmid RA, Peng RW. Therapeutic Landscape of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: Collateral Vulnerabilities and Evolutionary Dependencies in the Spotlight. Front Oncol 2020; 10:579464. [PMID: 33072611 PMCID: PMC7538645 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.579464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is the epitome of a recalcitrant cancer driven by pharmacologically intractable tumor suppressor proteins. A significant but largely unmet challenge in the field is the translation of genetic information on alterations in tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) into effective cancer-specific therapies. The notion that abnormal tumor genome subverts physiological cellular processes, which creates collateral vulnerabilities contextually related to specific genetic alterations, offers a promising strategy to target TSG-driven MPM. Moreover, emerging evidence has increasingly appreciated the therapeutic potential of genetic and pharmacological dependencies acquired en route to cancer development and drug resistance. Here, we review the most recent progress on vulnerabilities co-selected by functional loss of major TSGs and dependencies evolving out of cancer development and resistance to cisplatin based chemotherapy, the only first-line regimen approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Finally, we highlight CRISPR-based functional genomics that has emerged as a powerful platform for cancer drug discovery in MPM. The repertoire of MPM-specific “Achilles heel” rises on the horizon, which holds the promise to elucidate therapeutic landscape and may promote precision oncology for MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Xu
- Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Haitang Yang
- Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ralph A Schmid
- Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ren-Wang Peng
- Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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29
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Cakiroglu E, Senturk S. Genomics and Functional Genomics of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176342. [PMID: 32882916 PMCID: PMC7504302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, aggressive cancer of the mesothelial cells lining the pleural surface of the chest wall and lung. The etiology of MPM is strongly associated with prior exposure to asbestos fibers, and the median survival rate of the diagnosed patients is approximately one year. Despite the latest advancements in surgical techniques and systemic therapies, currently available treatment modalities of MPM fail to provide long-term survival. The increasing incidence of MPM highlights the need for finding effective treatments. Targeted therapies offer personalized treatments in many cancers. However, targeted therapy in MPM is not recommended by clinical guidelines mainly because of poor target definition. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms and the predictors of poor clinical outcomes of MPM is required to identify novel targets and develop precise and effective treatments. Recent advances in the genomics and functional genomics fields have provided groundbreaking insights into the genomic and molecular profiles of MPM and enabled the functional characterization of the genetic alterations. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the relevant literature and highlights the potential of state-of-the-art genomics and functional genomics research to facilitate the development of novel diagnostics and therapeutic modalities in MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Cakiroglu
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir 35340, Turkey;
- Department of Genome Sciences and Molecular Biotechnology, Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35340, Turkey
| | - Serif Senturk
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir 35340, Turkey;
- Department of Genome Sciences and Molecular Biotechnology, Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35340, Turkey
- Correspondence:
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Mota M, Shevde LA. Merlin regulates signaling events at the nexus of development and cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:63. [PMID: 32299434 PMCID: PMC7164249 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In this review, we describe how the cytoskeletal protein Merlin, encoded by the Neurofibromin 2 (NF2) gene, orchestrates developmental signaling to ensure normal ontogeny, and we discuss how Merlin deficiency leads to aberrant activation of developmental pathways that enable tumor development and malignant progression. Main body Parallels between embryonic development and cancer have underscored the activation of developmental signaling pathways. Hippo, WNT/β-catenin, TGF-β, receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), Notch, and Hedgehog pathways are key players in normal developmental biology. Unrestrained activity or loss of activity of these pathways causes adverse effects in developing tissues manifesting as developmental syndromes. Interestingly, these detrimental events also impact differentiated and functional tissues. By promoting cell proliferation, migration, and stem-cell like phenotypes, deregulated activity of these pathways promotes carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The NF2 gene product, Merlin, is a tumor suppressor classically known for its ability to induce contact-dependent growth inhibition. Merlin plays a role in different stages of an organism development, ranging from embryonic to mature states. While homozygous deletion of Nf2 in murine embryos causes embryonic lethality, Merlin loss in adult tissue is implicated in Neurofibromatosis type 2 disorder and cancer. These manifestations, cumulatively, are reminiscent of dysregulated developmental signaling. Conclusion Understanding the molecular and cellular repercussions of Merlin loss provides fundamental insights into the etiology of developmental disorders and cancer and has the potential, in the long term, to identify new therapeutic strategies. Video Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus Mota
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, WTI 320D, 1824 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, WTI 320D, 1824 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA. .,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, WTI 320D, 1824 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
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31
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Deng L, Meng T, Chen L, Wei W, Wang P. The role of ubiquitination in tumorigenesis and targeted drug discovery. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:11. [PMID: 32296023 PMCID: PMC7048745 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0107-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 383] [Impact Index Per Article: 95.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination, an important type of protein posttranslational modification (PTM), plays a crucial role in controlling substrate degradation and subsequently mediates the "quantity" and "quality" of various proteins, serving to ensure cell homeostasis and guarantee life activities. The regulation of ubiquitination is multifaceted and works not only at the transcriptional and posttranslational levels (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, etc.) but also at the protein level (activators or repressors). When regulatory mechanisms are aberrant, the altered biological processes may subsequently induce serious human diseases, especially various types of cancer. In tumorigenesis, the altered biological processes involve tumor metabolism, the immunological tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer stem cell (CSC) stemness and so on. With regard to tumor metabolism, the ubiquitination of some key proteins such as RagA, mTOR, PTEN, AKT, c-Myc and P53 significantly regulates the activity of the mTORC1, AMPK and PTEN-AKT signaling pathways. In addition, ubiquitination in the TLR, RLR and STING-dependent signaling pathways also modulates the TME. Moreover, the ubiquitination of core stem cell regulator triplets (Nanog, Oct4 and Sox2) and members of the Wnt and Hippo-YAP signaling pathways participates in the maintenance of CSC stemness. Based on the altered components, including the proteasome, E3 ligases, E1, E2 and deubiquitinases (DUBs), many molecular targeted drugs have been developed to combat cancer. Among them, small molecule inhibitors targeting the proteasome, such as bortezomib, carfilzomib, oprozomib and ixazomib, have achieved tangible success. In addition, MLN7243 and MLN4924 (targeting the E1 enzyme), Leucettamol A and CC0651 (targeting the E2 enzyme), nutlin and MI-219 (targeting the E3 enzyme), and compounds G5 and F6 (targeting DUB activity) have also shown potential in preclinical cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in understanding the substrates for ubiquitination and their special functions in tumor metabolism regulation, TME modulation and CSC stemness maintenance. Moreover, potential therapeutic targets for cancer are reviewed, as are the therapeutic effects of targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Tong Meng
- Division of Spine, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Division of Laboratory Safety and Services, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Wenyi Wei
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ping Wang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Deng J, Hua L, Han T, Tian M, Wang D, Tang H, Sun S, Chen H, Cheng H, Zhang T, Xie Q, Wan L, Zhu H, Gong Y. The CREB-binding protein inhibitor ICG-001: a promising therapeutic strategy in sporadic meningioma with NF2 mutations. Neurooncol Adv 2020; 2:vdz055. [PMID: 32642722 PMCID: PMC7212891 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdz055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Meningiomas with Neurofibromin 2 gene mutations (NF2-mutant meningiomas) account for ~40% of the sporadic meningiomas. However, there is still no effective drug treatment for the disease. Methods Expression profile of Merlin protein was explored through immunohistochemistry in a meningioma patient cohort (n = 346). A 20-agent library covering a wide range of meningioma relevant targets was tested using meningioma cell lines IOMM-Lee (NF2 wildtype) and CH157-MN (NF2 deficient). Therapeutic effects and biological mechanisms of the identified compound, ICG-001, in NF2-mutant meningiomas were further characterized in vitro and in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Results Low Merlin expression was associated with meningioma proliferation and poor clinical outcomes in a large patient series. ICG-001, a cAMP-responsive element binding (CREB)-binding protein (CBP) inhibitor, selectively suppressed tumor growth of cells with low Merlin expression. Besides, ICG-001 mediated CH157-MN and IOMM-Lee growth inhibition primarily through robust induction of the G1 cell-cycle arrest. Treatment with ICG-001 alone significantly reduced the growth of NF2-mutant xenografts in mice, as well. We also provide further evidence that ICG-001 inhibits proliferation of NF2-mutant meningioma cells at least partly through attenuating the FOXM1-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Conclusions This study highlights the importance of ligand-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling as well as its drugable potency in NF2-mutant meningioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyang Hua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daijun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailiang Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuchen Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Neuropathology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haixia Cheng
- Department of Neuropathology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixin Wan
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Hongda Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Gong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Intercellular interaction dictates cancer cell ferroptosis via NF2-YAP signalling. Nature 2019; 572:402-406. [PMID: 31341276 PMCID: PMC6697195 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1426-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 652] [Impact Index Per Article: 130.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a cell death process driven by cellular metabolism and iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, is implicated in various diseases such as ischemic organ damage and cancer1,2. As a central regulator of ferroptosis, the enzyme glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) protects cells from ferroptosis by neutralizing lipid peroxides, which are byproducts of cellular metabolism; as such, inhibiting GPX4 directly, or indirectly by depriving its substrate glutathione or building blocks of glutathione (such as cysteine), can trigger ferroptosis3. Ferroptosis contributes to the antitumour function of multiple tumour suppressors including p53, BAP1, and fumarase4-7. Counterintuitively, mesenchymal cancer cells, which are prone to metastasis and often resistant to various treatments, have shown to be highly susceptible to ferroptosis8,9. Here, we demonstrate that ferroptosis can be regulated non-cell autonomously by cadherin-mediated intercellular contacts. In epithelial cells, E-cadherin-mediated intercellular interaction suppresses ferroptosis through intracellular Merlin-Hippo signalling. Antagonizing this signalling axis unleashes the activity of the proto-oncogenic transcriptional co-activator YAP to promote ferroptosis through upregulation of multiple ferroptosis modulators, including acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (ACSL4) and transferrin receptor. This finding provides mechanistic insights into the observations that epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT)/metastasis-prone cancer cells are highly sensitive to ferroptosis8. Importantly, the regulation of ferroptosis by cell-cell contact and Merlin-YAP signalling is not limited to epithelial cells; a similar mechanism also modulates ferroptosis in some non-epithelial cells. Finally, we found that genetic inactivation of the tumour suppressor Merlin, a frequent tumourigenic event in mesothelioma10,11, renders cancer cells more sensitive to ferroptosis in an orthotopic mouse model of malignant mesothelioma. Together, this study unveils the role of intercellular interaction and intracellular Merlin-YAP signalling in dictating ferroptotic death; it also suggests that malignant mutations in Merlin-YAP signalling can serve as biomarkers predicting cancer cell responsiveness to future ferroptosis-inducing therapies.
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Kohno T, Konno T, Kojima T. Role of Tricellular Tight Junction Protein Lipolysis-Stimulated Lipoprotein Receptor (LSR) in Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3555. [PMID: 31330820 PMCID: PMC6679224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintaining a robust epithelial barrier requires the accumulation of tight junction proteins, LSR/angulin-1 and tricellulin, at the tricellular contacts. Alterations in the localization of these proteins temporarily cause epithelial barrier dysfunction, which is closely associated with not only physiological differentiation but also cancer progression and metastasis. In normal human endometrial tissues, the endometrial cells undergo repeated proliferation and differentiation under physiological conditions. Recent observations have revealed that the localization and expression of LSR/angulin-1 and tricellulin are altered in a menstrual cycle-dependent manner. Moreover, it has been shown that endometrial cancer progression affects these alterations. This review highlights the differences in the localization and expression of tight junction proteins in normal endometrial cells and endometrial cancers and how they cause functional changes in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Kohno
- Department of Cell Science, Research Institute for Frontier Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan.
| | - Takumi Konno
- Department of Cell Science, Research Institute for Frontier Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Takashi Kojima
- Department of Cell Science, Research Institute for Frontier Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
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Mandati V, Del Maestro L, Dingli F, Lombard B, Loew D, Molinie N, Romero S, Bouvard D, Louvard D, Gautreau AM, Pasmant E, Lallemand D. Phosphorylation of Merlin by Aurora A kinase appears necessary for mitotic progression. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:12992-13005. [PMID: 31296571 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.006937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although Merlin's function as a tumor suppressor and regulator of mitogenic signaling networks such as the Ras/rac, Akt, and Hippo pathways is well-documented, in mammals as well as in insects, its role during cell cycle progression remains unclear. In this study, using a combination of approaches, including FACS analysis, time-lapse imaging, immunofluorescence microscopy, and co-immunoprecipitation, we show that Ser-518 of Merlin is a substrate of the Aurora protein kinase A during mitosis and that its phosphorylation facilitates the phosphorylation of a newly discovered site, Thr-581. We found that the expression in HeLa cells of a Merlin variant that is phosphorylation-defective on both sites leads to a defect in centrosomes and mitotic spindles positioning during metaphase and delays the transition from metaphase to anaphase. We also show that the dual mitotic phosphorylation not only reduces Merlin binding to microtubules but also timely modulates ezrin interaction with the cytoskeleton. Finally, we identify several point mutants of Merlin associated with neurofibromatosis type 2 that display an aberrant phosphorylation profile along with defective α-tubulin-binding properties. Altogether, our findings of an Aurora A-mediated interaction of Merlin with α-tubulin and ezrin suggest a potential role for Merlin in cell cycle progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Mandati
- CNRS, UMR144, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France
| | | | - Florent Dingli
- Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse Protéomique, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Bérangère Lombard
- Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse Protéomique, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Damarys Loew
- Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse Protéomique, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Molinie
- BIOC, CNRS UMR7654, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, F-91128 Palaiseau, France
| | - Stephane Romero
- BIOC, CNRS UMR7654, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, F-91128 Palaiseau, France
| | - Daniel Bouvard
- INSERM, Institut Albert Bonniot U823, F-38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Daniel Louvard
- CNRS, UMR144, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Alexis M Gautreau
- BIOC, CNRS UMR7654, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, F-91128 Palaiseau, France
| | - Eric Pasmant
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Dominique Lallemand
- CNRS, UMR144, Institute Curie, PSL Research University, F-75005 Paris, France.
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Toledo A, Lang F, Doengi M, Morrison H, Stein V, Baader SL. Merlin modulates process outgrowth and synaptogenesis in the cerebellum. Brain Struct Funct 2019; 224:2121-2142. [PMID: 31165301 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-019-01897-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients are prone to develop glial-derived tumors in the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS). The Nf2 gene product -Merlin is not only expressed in glia, but also in neurons of the CNS, where its function still remains elusive. Here, we show that cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) of isoform-specific Merlin-deficient mice were innervated by smaller vGluT2-positive clusters at presynaptic terminals than those of wild-type mice. This was paralleled by a reduction in frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSC). On the contrary, in conditional transgenic mice in which Merlin expression was specifically ablated in PCs (L7Cre;Nf2fl/fl), we found enlarged vGluT2-positive clusters in their presynaptic buttons together with increased amplitudes of miniature postsynaptic currents. The presynaptic terminals of these PCs innervating neurons of the deep cerebellar nuclei were also enlarged. When exploring mice with Merlin-deficient granule cells (GCs) (Math1Cre;Nf2fl/fl), we found cerebellar extracts to contain higher amounts of vGluT1 present in parallel fiber terminals. In parallel, mEPSC frequency was increased in Math1Cre;Nf2fl/fl mice. On the contrary, VGluT2 clusters in cerebellar glomeruli composed of NF2-deficient presynaptic Mossy fiber terminals and NF2-deficient postsynaptic GC were reduced in size as shown for isoform-specific knockout mice. These changes in Math1Cre;Nf2fl/fl-deficient mice were paralleled by an increased activation of Rac1-Cofilin signaling which is known to impact on cytoskeletal reorganization and synapse formation. Consistent with the observed synaptic alterations in these transgenic mice, we observed altered ultrasonic vocalization, which is known to rely on proper cerebellar function. No gross morphological changes or motor coordination deficits were observed in any of these transgenic mice. We therefore conclude that Merlin does not regulate overall cerebellar development, but impacts on pre- and post-synaptic terminal organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Toledo
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn University, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - F Lang
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn University, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - M Doengi
- Institute of Physiology II, Bonn University, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - H Morrison
- Leibniz Institute for Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - V Stein
- Institute of Physiology II, Bonn University, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - S L Baader
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn University, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
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Litan A, Li Z, Tokhtaeva E, Kelly P, Vagin O, Langhans SA. A Functional Interaction Between Na,K-ATPase β 2-Subunit/AMOG and NF2/Merlin Regulates Growth Factor Signaling in Cerebellar Granule Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:7557-7571. [PMID: 31062247 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-1592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The Na,K-ATPase, consisting of a catalytic α-subunit and a regulatory β-subunit, is a ubiquitously expressed ion pump that carries out the transport of Na+ and K+ across the plasma membranes of most animal cells. In addition to its pump function, Na,K-ATPase serves as a signaling scaffold and a cell adhesion molecule. Of the three β-subunit isoforms, β1 is found in almost all tissues, while β2 expression is mostly restricted to brain and muscle. In cerebellar granule cells, the β2-subunit, also known as adhesion molecule on glia (AMOG), has been linked to neuron-astrocyte adhesion and granule cell migration, suggesting its role in cerebellar development. Nevertheless, little is known about molecular pathways that link the β2-subunit to its cellular functions. Using cerebellar granule precursor cells, we found that the β2-subunit, but not the β1-subunit, negatively regulates the expression of a key activator of the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway, Merlin/neurofibromin-2 (NF2). The knockdown of the β2-subunit resulted in increased Merlin/NF2 expression and affected downstream targets of Hippo signaling, i.e., increased YAP phosphorylation and decreased expression of N-Ras. Further, the β2-subunit knockdown altered the kinetics of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in a Merlin-dependent mode and impaired EGF-induced reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. Therefore, our studies for the first time provide a functional link between the Na,K-ATPase β2-subunit and Merlin/NF2 and suggest a role for the β2-subunit in regulating cytoskeletal dynamics and Hippo/YAP signaling during neuronal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa Litan
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, DuPont Experimental Station, Bldg 400, #4414, 200 Powder Mill Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803, USA.,Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Zhiqin Li
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, DuPont Experimental Station, Bldg 400, #4414, 200 Powder Mill Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803, USA
| | - Elmira Tokhtaeva
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA
| | - Patience Kelly
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, DuPont Experimental Station, Bldg 400, #4414, 200 Powder Mill Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803, USA.,Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Olga Vagin
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA
| | - Sigrid A Langhans
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, DuPont Experimental Station, Bldg 400, #4414, 200 Powder Mill Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803, USA.
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Michie KA, Bermeister A, Robertson NO, Goodchild SC, Curmi PMG. Two Sides of the Coin: Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin and Merlin Control Membrane Structure and Contact Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081996. [PMID: 31018575 PMCID: PMC6515277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The merlin-ERM (ezrin, radixin, moesin) family of proteins plays a central role in linking the cellular membranes to the cortical actin cytoskeleton. Merlin regulates contact inhibition and is an integral part of cell–cell junctions, while ERM proteins, ezrin, radixin and moesin, assist in the formation and maintenance of specialized plasma membrane structures and membrane vesicle structures. These two protein families share a common evolutionary history, having arisen and separated via gene duplication near the origin of metazoa. During approximately 0.5 billion years of evolution, the merlin and ERM family proteins have maintained both sequence and structural conservation to an extraordinary level. Comparing crystal structures of merlin-ERM proteins and their complexes, a picture emerges of the merlin-ERM proteins acting as switchable interaction hubs, assembling protein complexes on cellular membranes and linking them to the actin cytoskeleton. Given the high level of structural conservation between the merlin and ERM family proteins we speculate that they may function together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Michie
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Adam Bermeister
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Neil O Robertson
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Sophia C Goodchild
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, Australia.
| | - Paul M G Curmi
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
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Manmadhan S, Ehmer U. Hippo Signaling in the Liver - A Long and Ever-Expanding Story. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:33. [PMID: 30931304 PMCID: PMC6423448 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The first description of Hippo signaling in mammals a little more than 10 years ago showed a striking phenotype in the liver, linking the role of this signaling pathway to organ size control and carcinogenesis. Even though Hippo signaling has been extensively studied in the liver and other organs over the recent years, many open questions remain in our understanding of its role in hepatic physiology and disease. The functions of Hippo signaling extend well beyond cancer and organ size determination: components of upstream Hippo signaling and the downstream effectors YAP and TAZ are involved in a multitude of cell and non-cell autonomous functions including cell proliferation, survival, development, differentiation, metabolism, and cross-talk with the immune system. Moreover, regulation and biological functions of Hippo signaling are often organ or even cell type specific – making its role even more complex. Here, we give a concise overview of the role of Hippo signaling in the liver with a focus on cell-type specific functions. We outline open questions and future research directions that will help to improve our understanding of this important pathway in liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumya Manmadhan
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ursula Ehmer
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Laszlo V, Valko Z, Ozsvar J, Kovacs I, Garay T, Hoda MA, Klikovits T, Stockhammer P, Aigner C, Gröger M, Klepetko W, Berger W, Grusch M, Tovari J, Waizenegger IC, Dome B, Hegedus B. The FAK inhibitor BI 853520 inhibits spheroid formation and orthotopic tumor growth in malignant pleural mesothelioma. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 97:231-242. [PMID: 30539198 PMCID: PMC6348072 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-018-1725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
No tyrosine kinase inhibitors are approved for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Preclinical studies identified focal adhesion kinase (FAK) as a target in MPM. Accordingly, we assessed the novel, highly selective FAK inhibitor (BI 853520) in 2D and 3D cultures and in vivo. IC50 values were measured by adherent cell viability assay. Cell migration and 3D growth were quantified by video microscopy and spheroid formation, respectively. Phosphorylation of FAK, Akt, S6, and Erk was measured by immunoblot. The mRNA expression of the putative tumor stem cell markers SOX2, Nanog, CD44, ALDH1, c-myc, and Oct4 was analyzed by qPCR. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumor tissue microvessel density (MVD) were investigated in orthotopic MPM xenografts. In all 12 MPM cell lines, IC50 exceeded 5 μM and loss of NF2 did not correlate with sensitivity. No synergism was found with cisplatin in adherent cells. BI 853520 decreased migration in 3 out of 4 cell lines. FAK phosphorylation was reduced upon treatment but activation of Erk, Akt, or S6 remained unaffected. Nevertheless, BI 853520 inhibited spheroid growth and significantly reduced tumor weight, cell proliferation, and MVD in vivo. BI 853520 has limited effect in adherent cultures but demonstrates potent activity in spheroids and in orthotopic tumors in vivo. Based on our findings, further studies are warranted to explore the clinical utility of BI 853520 in human MPM. KEY MESSAGES: Response to FAK inhibition in MPM is independent of NF2 expression or histotype. FAK inhibition strongly interfered with MPM spheroid formation. BI 853520 has been shown to exert anti-tumor effect in MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Laszlo
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Division of Molecular and Gender Imaging, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zsuzsanna Valko
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Tumor Biology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Ozsvar
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ildiko Kovacs
- Department of Tumor Biology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamas Garay
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mir Alireza Hoda
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Klikovits
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Stockhammer
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, University Clinic Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Tüschener Weg 40, 45239, Essen, Germany
| | - Clemens Aigner
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, University Clinic Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Tüschener Weg 40, 45239, Essen, Germany
| | - Marion Gröger
- Core Facility Imaging, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter Klepetko
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter Berger
- Institute of Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Grusch
- Institute of Cancer Research and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jozsef Tovari
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- KINETO Lab Ltd, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Balazs Dome
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Tumor Biology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Institute of Oncology-Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Balazs Hegedus
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria.
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, University Clinic Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Tüschener Weg 40, 45239, Essen, Germany.
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Ma T, Ge XY, Hao KY, Jiang X, Zheng Y, Lin Y, Zhang Y. Titanium discs coated with 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine promote osteogenic differentiation of human bone mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. RSC Adv 2019; 9:9117-9125. [PMID: 35517681 PMCID: PMC9062092 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra09952a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The bioinspired material 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine (DOPA) is commonly used as a basic layer in surface modification for osteogenesis; however, its effects on bone remodeling and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated the effect of DOPA-coated surfaces on human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. Cells cultured on DOPA-modified titanium discs exhibited enhanced cellular adhesion and spreading compared with cells on non-treated surfaces. Moreover, DOPA-coating promoted greater cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, as determined using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, alkaline phosphatase activity test and quantitative mineralization measurements. Furthermore, microarray analysis revealed that genes participating in focal adhesion were upregulated on DOPA-coated surfaces. Our results indicate that the application of a simple DOPA coating can promote osteogenic differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells, improving new bone formation and bone remodeling around implantable devices in tissue engineering. Titanium discs with simple 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine coating enhanced BM-MSC adhesion, spreading, proliferation and differentiation, and upregulated expression of genes involved in focal adhesion in vitro.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ma
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Xi-Yuan Ge
- Central Laboratory
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Ke-Yi Hao
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Xi Jiang
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Oral Implantology
- Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology
- Beijing 100081
- PR China
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Mota MSV, Jackson WP, Bailey SK, Vayalil P, Landar A, Rostas JW, Mulekar MS, Samant RS, Shevde LA. Deficiency of tumor suppressor Merlin facilitates metabolic adaptation by co-operative engagement of SMAD-Hippo signaling in breast cancer. Carcinogenesis 2018; 39:1165-1175. [PMID: 29893810 PMCID: PMC6148973 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgy078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The NF2 gene encodes the tumor and metastasis suppressor protein Merlin. Merlin exerts its tumor suppressive role by inhibiting proliferation and inducing contact-growth inhibition and apoptosis. In the current investigation, we determined that loss of Merlin in breast cancer tissues is concordant with the loss of the inhibitory SMAD, SMAD7, of the TGF-β pathway. This was reflected as dysregulated activation of TGF-β signaling that co-operatively engaged with effectors of the Hippo pathway (YAP/TAZ/TEAD). As a consequence, the loss of Merlin in breast cancer resulted in a significant metabolic and bioenergetic adaptation of cells characterized by increased aerobic glycolysis and decreased oxygen consumption. Mechanistically, we determined that the co-operative activity of the Hippo and TGF-β transcription effectors caused upregulation of the long non-coding RNA Urothelial Cancer-Associated 1 (UCA1) that disengaged Merlin's check on STAT3 activity. The consequent upregulation of Hexokinase 2 (HK2) enabled a metabolic shift towards aerobic glycolysis. In fact, Merlin deficiency engendered cellular dependence on this metabolic adaptation, endorsing a critical role for Merlin in regulating cellular metabolism. This is the first report of Merlin functioning as a molecular restraint on cellular metabolism. Thus, breast cancer patients whose tumors demonstrate concordant loss of Merlin and SMAD7 may benefit from an approach of incorporating STAT3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus S V Mota
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - William P Jackson
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Sarah K Bailey
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Praveen Vayalil
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Aimee Landar
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jack W Rostas
- Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Madhuri S Mulekar
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Rajeev S Samant
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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43
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Zhao F, Yang Z, Chen Y, Zhou Q, Zhang J, Liu J, Wang B, He Q, Zhang L, Yu Y, Liu P. Deregulation of the Hippo Pathway Promotes Tumor Cell Proliferation Through YAP Activity in Human Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma. World Neurosurg 2018; 117:e269-e279. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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44
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Kiss A, Erdődi F, Lontay B. Myosin phosphatase: Unexpected functions of a long-known enzyme. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2018; 1866:2-15. [PMID: 30076859 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2018.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Myosin phosphatase (MP) holoenzyme is a Ser/Thr specific enzyme, which is the member of protein phosphatase type 1 (PP1) family and composed of a PP1 catalytic subunit (PP1c/PPP1CB) and a myosin phosphatase targeting subunit (MYPT1/PPP1R12A). PP1c is required for the catalytic activity of the holoenzyme, while MYPT1 regulates MP through targeting the holoenzyme to its substrates. Above the well-characterized function of MP, as the major regulator of smooth muscle contractility mediating the dephosphorylation of 20 kDa myosin light chain, accumulating data support its role in other, non-contractile functions. In this review, we summarize the scaffold function of MP holoenzyme and its roles in processes such as cell cycle, development, gene expression regulation and neurotransmitter release. In particular, we highlight novel interacting proteins of MYPT1 and pathophysiological functions of MP relevant to tumorigenesis, insulin resistance and neurodegenerative disorders. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein Phosphatases as Critical Regulators for Cellular Homeostasis edited by Prof. Peter Ruvolo and Dr. Veerle Janssens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kiss
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Erdődi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Beáta Lontay
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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45
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Moon KH, Kim JW. Hippo Signaling Circuit and Divergent Tissue Growth in Mammalian Eye. Mol Cells 2018; 41:257-263. [PMID: 29665674 PMCID: PMC5935098 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2018.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate organ development is accompanied by demarcation of tissue compartments, which grow coordinately with their neighbors. Hence, perturbing the coordinative growth of neighboring tissue compartments frequently results in organ malformation. The growth of tissue compartments is regulated by multiple intercellular and intracellular signaling pathways, including the Hippo signaling pathway that limits the growth of various organs. In the optic neuroepithelial continuum, which is partitioned into the retina, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and ciliary margin (CM) during eye development, the Hippo signaling activity operates differentially, as it does in many tissues. In this review, we summarize recent studies that have explored the relationship between the Hippo signaling pathway and growth of optic neuroepithelial compartments. We will focus particularly on the roles of a tumor suppressor, neurofibromin 2 (NF2), whose expression is not only dependent on compartment-specific transcription factors, but is also subject to regulation by a Hippo-Yap feedback signaling circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong Hwan Moon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141,
Korea
| | - Jin Woo Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141,
Korea
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46
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NF2/Merlin Inactivation and Potential Therapeutic Targets in Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19040988. [PMID: 29587439 PMCID: PMC5979333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19040988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene encodes merlin, a tumor suppressor protein frequently inactivated in schwannoma, meningioma, and malignant mesothelioma (MM). The sequence of merlin is similar to that of ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) proteins which crosslink actin with the plasma membrane, suggesting that merlin plays a role in transducing extracellular signals to the actin cytoskeleton. Merlin adopts a distinct closed conformation defined by specific intramolecular interactions and regulates diverse cellular events such as transcription, translation, ubiquitination, and miRNA biosynthesis, many of which are mediated through Hippo and mTOR signaling, which are known to be closely involved in cancer development. MM is a very aggressive tumor associated with asbestos exposure, and genetic alterations in NF2 that abrogate merlin’s functional activity are found in about 40% of MMs, indicating the importance of NF2 inactivation in MM development and progression. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of molecular events triggered by NF2/merlin inactivation, which lead to the development of mesothelioma and other cancers, and discuss potential therapeutic targets in merlin-deficient mesotheliomas.
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47
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FAK and paxillin, two potential targets in pancreatic cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:31586-601. [PMID: 26980710 PMCID: PMC5058780 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating cancer in large part due to late diagnosis and a lack of effective screening tests. In spite of recent progress in imaging, surgery and new therapeutic options for pancreatic cancer, the overall five-year survival still remains unacceptably low. Numerous studies have shown that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is activated in many cancers including PDAC and promotes cancer progression and metastasis. Paxillin, an intracellular adaptor protein that plays a key role in cytoskeletal organization, connects integrins to FAK and plays a key role in assembly and disassembly of focal adhesions. Here, we have reviewed evidence in support of FAK as a potential therapeutic target and summarized related combinatorial therapies.
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48
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Boratkó A, Csortos C. TIMAP, the versatile protein phosphatase 1 regulator in endothelial cells. IUBMB Life 2017; 69:918-928. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.1695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Boratkó
- Department of Medical Chemistry; Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1; Debrecen Hungary
| | - Csilla Csortos
- Department of Medical Chemistry; Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1; Debrecen Hungary
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49
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The conformation change and tumor suppressor role of Merlin are both independent of Serine 518 phosphorylation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 493:46-51. [PMID: 28919412 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.09.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Merlin functions as a tumor suppressor and suppresses malignant activity of cancer cells through multiple mechanisms. However, whether Serine 518 phosphorylation regulates the conformation of Merlin as well as the open-closed conformational changes affect Merlin's tumor inhibitory activity remain controversial. In this study, we used different mutants to mimic related conformational states of Merlin and investigated its physiological functions. Our results showed that the phosphorylation at Serine 518 has no influence on Merlin's conformation, subcellular localization, or cell proliferation inhibitory activity. As a fully closed conformational state, the A585W mutant loses the ability to recruit Lats2 to the cell membrane, but it does not affect its subcellular distribution or cell proliferation inhibitory activity. As a fully open conformational state, mimicking the conformation of Merlin isoform II, the ΔEL mutant has the same physiological function as the wild type Merlin isoform I. Collectively, we provide for the first time in vivo evidence that the function of Merlin, as a tumor suppressor is independent of its conformational change.
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50
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Alfieri R, Giovannetti E, Bonelli M, Cavazzoni A. New Treatment Opportunities in Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN)-Deficient Tumors: Focus on PTEN/Focal Adhesion Kinase Pathway. Front Oncol 2017; 7:170. [PMID: 28848709 PMCID: PMC5552661 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2017.00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Deep genetic studies revealed that phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) mutations or loss of expression are not early events in cancer development but characterize tumor progression and invasion. Loss of PTEN function causes a full activation of the prosurvival phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR pathway, but the treatment with specific inhibitors of PI3K/AKT/mTOR did not produce the expected results. One of the alternative targets of PTEN is the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) kinase, mainly involved in the control of cancer cell spread. The connection between PTEN and FAK has been demonstrated in different tumor types, with reduced PTEN activity often correlated with increased expression and phosphorylation of FAK. FAK inhibition may thus represent a promising strategy, and some clinical trials are testing FAK inhibitors alone or combined with other agents in a number of solid tumors. However, only few preclinical and clinical data described the effects of the combination of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and FAK inhibitors. Increasing knowledge on the PTEN/FAK connection could confirm PTEN as a good prognostic marker for a combination strategy based on concomitant inhibition of PI3K/AKT and FAK signaling, in advanced metastatic malignancies with altered or reduced PTEN expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Alfieri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Cancer Pharmacology Laboratory, AIRC Start Up Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mara Bonelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Cavazzoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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