Ubiquitylation in apoptosis: a post-translational modification at the edge of life and death

Promises and Challenges of Smac Mimetics as Cancer Therapeutics

Inhibitor of Apoptosis (IAP) proteins block programmed cell death and are expressed at high levels in various human cancers, thus making them attractive targets for cancer drug development. Second mitochondrial activator of caspases (Smac) mimetics are small-molecule inhibitors that mimic Smac, an endogenous antagonist of IAP proteins. Preclinical studies have shown that Smac mimetics can directly trigger cancer cell death or, even more importantly, sensitize tumor cells for various cytotoxic therapies, including conventional chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or novel agents. Currently, several Smac mimetics are under evaluation in early clinical trials as monotherapy or in rational combinations (i.e., GDC-0917/CUDC-427, LCL161, AT-406/Debio1143, HGS1029, and TL32711/birinapant). This review discusses the promise as well as some challenges at the translational interface of exploiting Smac mimetics as cancer therapeutics.

Coordinated ubiquitination and phosphorylation of RIP1 regulates necroptotic cell death

Proper regulation of cell death signaling is crucial for the maintenance of homeostasis and prevention of disease. A caspase-independent regulated form of cell death called necroptosis is rapidly emerging as an important mediator of a number of human pathologies including inflammatory bowel disease and ischemia–reperfusion organ injury. Activation of necroptotic signaling through TNF signaling or organ injury leads to the activation of kinases receptor-interacting protein kinases 1 and 3 (RIP1 and RIP3) and culminates in inflammatory cell death. We found that, in addition to phosphorylation, necroptotic cell death is regulated by ubiquitination of RIP1 in the necrosome. Necroptotic RIP1 ubiquitination requires RIP1 kinase activity, but not necroptotic mediators RIP3 and MLKL (mixed lineage kinase-like). Using immunoaffinity enrichment and mass spectrometry, we profiled numerous ubiquitination events on RIP1 that are triggered during necroptotic signaling. Mutation of a necroptosis-related ubiquitination site on RIP1 reduced necroptotic cell death and RIP1 ubiquitination and phosphorylation, and disrupted the assembly of RIP1 and RIP3 in the necrosome, suggesting that necroptotic RIP1 ubiquitination is important for maintaining RIP1 kinase activity in the necrosome complex. We also observed RIP1 ubiquitination in injured kidneys consistent with a physiological role of RIP1 ubiquitination in ischemia–reperfusion disease. Taken together, these data reveal that coordinated and interdependent RIP1 phosphorylation and ubiquitination within the necroptotic complex regulate necroptotic signaling and cell death.

USP9X stabilizes XIAP to regulate mitotic cell death and chemoresistance in aggressive B-cell lymphoma

The mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) maintains genome stability and marks an important target for antineoplastic therapies. However, it has remained unclear how cells execute cell fate decisions under conditions of SAC‐induced mitotic arrest. Here, we identify USP9X as the mitotic deubiquitinase of the X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) and demonstrate that deubiquitylation and stabilization of XIAP by USP9X lead to increased resistance toward mitotic spindle poisons. We find that primary human aggressive B‐cell lymphoma samples exhibit high USP9X expression that correlate with XIAP overexpression. We show that high USP9X/XIAP expression is associated with shorter event‐free survival in patients treated with spindle poison‐containing chemotherapy. Accordingly, aggressive B‐cell lymphoma lines with USP9X and associated XIAP overexpression exhibit increased chemoresistance, reversed by specific inhibition of either USP9X or XIAP. Moreover, knockdown of USP9X or XIAP significantly delays lymphoma development and increases sensitivity to spindle poisons in a murine Eμ‐Myc lymphoma model. Together, we specify the USP9X–XIAP axis as a regulator of the mitotic cell fate decision and propose that USP9X and XIAP are potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in aggressive B‐cell lymphoma.

Trafficking and function of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator: a complex network of posttranslational modifications

Posttranslational modifications add diversity to protein function. Throughout its life cycle, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) undergoes numerous covalent posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including glycosylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, phosphorylation, and palmitoylation. These modifications regulate key steps during protein biogenesis, such as protein folding, trafficking, stability, function, and association with protein partners and therefore may serve as targets for therapeutic manipulation. More generally, an improved understanding of molecular mechanisms that underlie CFTR PTMs may suggest novel treatment strategies for CF and perhaps other protein conformational diseases. This review provides a comprehensive summary of co- and posttranslational CFTR modifications and their significance with regard to protein biogenesis.

XIAP inhibits mature Smac-induced apoptosis by degrading it through ubiquitination in NSCLC

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) and second mitochondrial-derived activator of caspase (Smac) are two important prognostic biomarkers for cancer. They are negatively correlated in many types of cancer. However, their relationship is still unknown in lung cancer. In the present study, we found that there was a negative correlation between Smac and XIAP at the level of protein but not mRNA in NSCLC patients. However, XIAP overexpression had no effect on degrading endogenous Smac in lung cancer cell lines. Therefore, we constructed plasmids with full length of Smac (fSmac) and mature Smac (mSmac) which located in cytoplasm instead of original mitochondrial location, and was confirmed by immunofluorescence. Subsequently, we found that mSmac rather than fSmac was degraded by XIAP and inhibited cell viability. CHX chase assay and ubiquitin assay were performed to illustrate XIAP degraded mSmac through ubiquitin pathway. Overexpression of XIAP partially reverted apoptotic induction and cell viability inhibition by mSmac, which was due to inhibiting caspase-3 activation. In nude mouse xenograft experiments, mSmac inhibited Ki-67 expression and slowed down lung cancer growth, while XIAP partially reversed the effect of mSmac by degrading it. In conclusion, XIAP inhibits mature Smac-induced apoptosis by degrading it through ubiquitination in NSCLC.

A novel ubiquitin-protein ligase E3 functions as a modulator of immune response against lipopolysaccharide in Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas

Ubiquitination is an important post-translational protein modification and plays a crucial role in various processes such as cell cycle, signal transduction, and transcriptional regulation. In the present study, a novel ubiquitin (Ub)-protein ligase E3 (designed as CgE3Rv1) was identified from Crassostrea gigas, and its ubiquitination regulation in the immune response against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation was investigated. The open reading frame of CgE3Rv1 gene was of 1455 bp encoding a polypeptide of 484 amino acids with the predicted molecular mass of 54.89 kDa. There were two transmembrane regions and a RING-variant (RINGv) domain identified in CgE3Rv1. CgE3Rv1 shared similar C4HC3 zinc-finger-like motif with those RINGv domain Ub-protein ligases E3s identified from vertebrates and invertebrates, and it was closely clustered with the membrane-associated RING-CH2 (MARCH2) Ub-protein ligases E3s in the phylogenetic tree. The mRNA transcript of CgE3Rv1 was highest expressed in gonads and hemolymph (p < 0.05), and its mRNA expression level in hemocytes was significantly increased at 6 h (p < 0.01) after the stimulation of LPS, while the up-regulated mRNA expression was significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after acetylcholine stimulation. No significant changes of CgE3Rv1 expression were observed after peptidoglycan or mannan stimulation. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization assays revealed that CgE3Rv1 protein and mRNA were dominantly distributed in the gonad. In the hemocytes, CgE3Rv1 was mainly located around the nucleus, and slightly distributed in the cytoplasm and on the cell membrane. Recombinant CgE3Rv1 RINGv domain protein (rCgE3Rv1-RINGv) was confirmed to activate the Ub reaction system in vitro with the aid of Ub-activating enzyme E1 and Ub-conjugating enzyme E2. These results demonstrated that CgE3Rv1 was an Ub-protein ligase E3, which was involved in the immune response against LPS and the interaction with cell surface signal molecules of neuroendocrine-immune system in oysters.

Linear ubiquitination signals in adaptive immune responses

Ubiquitin can form eight different linkage types of chains using the intrinsic Met 1 residue or one of the seven intrinsic Lys residues. Each linkage type of ubiquitin chain has a distinct three-dimensional topology, functioning as a tag to attract specific signaling molecules, which are so-called ubiquitin readers, and regulates various biological functions. Ubiquitin chains linked via Met 1 in a head-to-tail manner are called linear ubiquitin chains. Linear ubiquitination plays an important role in the regulation of cellular signaling, including the best-characterized tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-induced canonical nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. Linear ubiquitin chains are specifically generated by an E3 ligase complex called the linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC) and hydrolyzed by a deubiquitinase (DUB) called ovarian tumor (OTU) DUB with linear linkage specificity (OTULIN). LUBAC linearly ubiquitinates critical molecules in the TNF pathway, such as NEMO and RIPK1. The linear ubiquitin chains are then recognized by the ubiquitin readers, including NEMO, which control the TNF pathway. Accumulating evidence indicates an importance of the LUBAC complex in the regulation of apoptosis, development, and inflammation in mice. In this article, I focus on the role of linear ubiquitin chains in adaptive immune responses with an emphasis on the TNF-induced signaling pathways.

K45A mutation of RIPK1 results in poor necroptosis and cytokine signaling in macrophages, which impacts inflammatory responses in vivo

Receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) participates in several cell signaling complexes that promote cell activation and cell death. Stimulation of RIPK1 in the absence of caspase signaling induces regulated necrosis (necroptosis), which promotes an inflammatory response. Understanding of the mechanisms through which RIPK1 promotes inflammation has been unclear. Herein we have evaluated the impact of a K45A mutation of RIPK1 on necroptosis of macrophages and the activation of inflammatory response. We show that K45A mutation of RIPK1 results in attenuated necroptosis of macrophages in response to stimulation with LPS, TNFα and IFNβ in the absence of caspase signaling. Impairment in necroptosis correlated with poor phosphorylation of RIPK1, RIPK3 and reduced trimerization of MLKL. Furthermore, K45A mutation of RIPK1 resulted in poor STAT1 phosphorylation (at S727) and expression of RANTES and MIP-1α following TNF-R engagement in the absence of caspase activation. Our results further indicate that in the absence of stimulation by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), cellular inhibitors of apoptotic proteins (cIAPs) prevent the K45-dependent auto-phosphorylation of RIPK1, leading to resistance against necroptosis. Finally, RIPK1(K45A) mice displayed attenuated inflammatory response in vivo as they were significantly resistant against endotoxin shock, but highly susceptible against a challenge with Salmonella typhimurium. This correlated with reduced expression of IL-1β and ROS, and poor processing of caspase 8 by RIPK1(K45A) macrophages. Overall, these results indicate that K45 mediated kinase activity of RIPK1 is not only important for necroptosis but it also has a key role in promoting cytokine signaling and host response to inflammatory stimuli.

Linking Pathogenic Mechanisms of Alcoholic Liver Disease With Clinical Phenotypes

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) develops in approximately 20% of alcoholic patients, with a higher prevalence in females. ALD progression is marked by fatty liver and hepatocyte necrosis, as well as apoptosis, inflammation, regenerating nodules, fibrosis, and cirrhosis.(1) ALD develops via a complex process involving parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells, as well as recruitment of other cell types to the liver in response to damage and inflammation. Hepatocytes are damaged by ethanol, via generation of reactive oxygen species and induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Hepatocyte cell death via apoptosis and necrosis are markers of ethanol-induced liver injury. We review the mechanisms by which alcohol injures hepatocytes and the response of hepatic sinusoidal cells to alcohol-induced injury. We also discuss how recent insights into the pathogenesis of ALD will affect the treatment and management of patients.

Proteasome inhibitor MG132 potentiates TRAIL-induced apoptosis in gallbladder carcinoma GBC-SD cells via DR5-dependent pathway

TRAIL is a tumor-selective apoptosis-inducing cytokine playing a vital role in the surveillance and elimination of some tumor cells. However, some tumors are resistant to TRAIL treatment. Proteasome inhibitor MG132 exhibits anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic properties in many tumors. In this study, we demonstrated that proteasome inhibitor MG132 in vitro and in vivo potentiates TRAIL-induced apoptosis in gallbladder carcinoma GBC-SD cells. MG132 was able to inhibit the proliferation of GBC-SD cells and induce apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. The induction of apoptosis by proteasome inhibitor MG132 was mainly through the extrinsic apoptotic pathways of caspase activation such as caspase-8, caspase-3 and PARP cleavage. In addition, this process was also dependent on the upregulation of death receptor 5 (DR5), which promoted TRAIL-induced apoptosis in GBC-SD cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that MG132 possesses anti-gallbladder cancer potential that correlate with regulation of DR5-dependent pathway, and suggest that MG132 may be a promising agent for sensitizing GBC-SD cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.

The novel proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib activates and enhances extrinsic apoptosis involving stabilization of death receptor 5

Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a second generation proteasome inhibitor approved for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma. It induces apoptosis in human cancer cells; but the underlying mechanisms remain undefined. In the present study, we show that CFZ decreases the survival of several human cancer cell lines and induces apoptosis. Induction of apoptosis by CFZ occurs, at least in part, due to activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, since FADD deficiency protected cancer cells from undergoing apoptosis. CFZ increased total and cell surface levels of DR5 in different cancer cell lines; accordingly it enhanced TRAIL-induced apoptosis. DR5 deficiency protected cancer cells from induction of apoptosis by CFZ either alone or in combination with TRAIL. These data together convincingly demonstrate that DR5 upregulation is a critical mechanism accounting for CFZ-induced apoptosis and enhancement of TRAIL-induced apoptosis. CFZ inhibited the degradation of DR5, suggesting that DR5 stabilization contributes to CFZ-induced DR5 upregulation. In summary, the present study highlights the important role of DR5 upregulation in CFZ-induced apoptosis and enhancement of TRAIL-induced apoptosis in human cancer cells.

The Tumor Suppressor Hace1 Is a Critical Regulator of TNFR1-Mediated Cell Fate

The HECT domain E3 ligase HACE1 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in multiple cancers. Here, we report that HACE1 is a central gatekeeper of TNFR1-induced cell fate. Genetic inactivation of HACE1 inhibits TNF-stimulated NF-κB activation and TNFR1-NF-κB-dependent pathogen clearance in vivo. Moreover, TNF-induced apoptosis was impaired in hace1 mutant cells and knockout mice in vivo. Mechanistically, HACE1 is essential for the ubiquitylation of the adaptor protein TRAF2 and formation of the apoptotic caspase-8 effector complex. Intriguingly, loss of HACE1 does not impair TNFR1-mediated necroptotic cell fate via RIP1 and RIP3 kinases. Loss of HACE1 predisposes animals to colonic inflammation and carcinogenesis in vivo, which is markedly alleviated by genetic inactivation of RIP3 kinase and TNFR1. Thus, HACE1 controls TNF-elicited cell fate decisions and exerts tumor suppressor and anti-inflammatory activities via a TNFR1-RIP3 kinase-necroptosis pathway.

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Hace1 deficiency impairs TNF-driven NF-κB activation and apoptosis

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Necroptosis via RIP1/RIP3/MLKL is still functional in the absence of Hace1

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Hace1^–/– animals show enhanced severity of colitis and colon cancer

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Genetic inactivation of RIP3 and TNFR1 reverts the phenotype of hace1^–/– mice

Differential Involvement of the Npl4 Zinc Finger Domains of SHARPIN and HOIL-1L in Linear Ubiquitin Chain Assembly Complex-Mediated Cell Death Protection

The linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC) participates in NF-κB activation and cell death protection. Loss of any of the three LUBAC subunits (catalytic HOIP, accessory HOIL-1L, or accessory SHARPIN subunit) leads to distinct phenotypes in mice and human. cpdm mice (chronic proliferative dermatitis in mice [cpdm]) that lack SHARPIN exhibit chronic inflammatory phenotypes, whereas HOIL-1L knockout mice exhibit no overt phenotypes, despite sharing highly homologous ubiquitin-like (UBL) and Npl4 zinc finger (NZF) domains. Here, we intercrossed mice lacking HOIL-1L and SHARPIN and found that reduction of HOIL-1L in cpdm mice exacerbated inflammatory phenotypes without affecting characteristic features of cpdm disease, whereas reduction of SHARPIN in HOIL-1L knockout mice provoked no overt phenotypes. Hence, loss of SHARPIN and reduction of LUBAC triggers cpdm phenotypes. We found that the NZF domain of SHARPIN, but not that of HOIL-1L, is critical for effective protection from programmed cell death by enhancing the recruitment of LUBAC to the activated TNFR complex. The binding activity to K63-linked ubiquitin chains that the NZF domain of SHARPIN, but not that of HOIL-1L, possesses appears to be involved in the recruitment. Thus, selective recognition of ubiquitin chains by NZFs in LUBAC underlies the regulation of LUBAC function.

A Mechanistic Review of Cell Death in Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major health problem in the United States and worldwide without successful treatments. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to ALD, which is characterized by steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Recent studies suggest that alcohol induces both cell death and adaptive cell survival pathways in the liver, and the balance of cell death and cell survival ultimately decides the pathogenesis of ALD. This review summarizes the recent progress on the role and mechanisms of apoptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy in the pathogenesis of ALD. Understanding the complex regulation of apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy may help to develop novel therapeutic strategies by targeting all 3 pathways simultaneously.

Regulation of platelet lifespan by apoptosis

The lifespan of platelets in circulation is brief, close to 10 days in humans and 5 days in mice. Bone marrow residing megakaryocytes produce around 100 billion platelets per day. In a healthy individual, the majority of platelets are not consumed by hemostatic processes, but rather their lifespan is controlled by programmed cell death, a canonical intrinsic apoptosis program. In the last decade, insights from genetically manipulated mouse models and pharmacological developments have helped to define the components of the intrinsic, or mitochondrial, apoptosis pathway that controls platelet lifespan. This review focuses on the molecular regulation of apoptosis in platelet survival, reviews thrombocytopenic conditions linked to enhanced platelet death, examines implications of chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia through apoptosis-inducing drugs in cancer therapy as well as discusses ex vivo aging of platelets.

Control of apoptosis by Drosophila DCAF12

Regulated Apoptosis (Programmed Cell Death, PCD) maintains tissue homeostasis in adults, and ensures proper growth and morphogenesis of tissues during development of metazoans. Accordingly, defects in cellular processes triggering or executing apoptotic programs have been implicated in a variety of degenerative and neoplastic diseases. Here, we report the identification of DCAF12, an evolutionary conserved member of the WD40-motif repeat family of proteins, as a new regulator of apoptosis in Drosophila. We find that DCAF12 is required for Diap1 cleavage in response to pro-apoptotic signals, and is thus necessary and sufficient for RHG (Reaper, Hid, and Grim)-mediated apoptosis. Loss of DCAF12 perturbs the elimination of supernumerary or proliferation-impaired cells during development, and enhances tumor growth induced by loss of neoplastic tumor suppressors, highlighting the wide requirement for DCAF12 in PCD.

BIRC3 is a novel driver of therapeutic resistance in Glioblastoma

Genome-wide analysis of glioblastoma (GBM) reveals pervasive aberrations in apoptotic signaling pathways that collectively contribute to therapeutic resistance. Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAP) exert critical control on the terminal segment of apoptosis leading to apoptosis evasion. In this study, we uncover a unique role for BIRC3, as an IAP that is critical in GBM in response to therapy. Using the TCGA dataset of 524 unique samples, we identify BIRC3 is the only IAP whose differential expression is associated with long-term survival in GBM patients. Using patient tissue samples we further show that BIRC3 expression increases with recurrence. When extrapolated to a preclinical model of a human GBM cell line, we find an increase in BIRC3 expression in response to irradiation (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ) treatment. More importantly, we mechanistically implicate STAT3 and PI3K signaling pathways as drivers of RT-induced up-regulation of BIRC3 expression. Lastly, we demonstrate that both in-vivo and in-vitro BIRC3 up-regulation results in apoptosis evasion and therapeutic resistance in GBM. Collectively, our study identifies a novel translational and targetable role for BIRC3 expression as a predictor of aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance to TMZ and RT mediated by STAT3 and PI3K signaling in GBM.

Efficient chemical synthesis for the analogue of ubiquitin-based probe Ub–AMC with native bioactivity

The analogue of ubiquitin-based probe ubiquitin–7-amido-4-methylcoumarin (Ub–AMC) was efficiently synthesized through a methyl thioglycolate (MTG) assisted one-pot ligation–desulfurization protocol.

BAP1 promotes breast cancer cell proliferation and metastasis by deubiquitinating KLF5

The transcription factor KLF5 is highly expressed in basal-like breast cancer and promotes breast cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration and tumour growth. Here we show that, in breast cancer cells, KLF5 is stabilized by the deubiquitinase (DUB) BAP1. With a genome-wide siRNA library screen of DUBs, we identify BAP1 as a bona fide KLF5 DUB. BAP1 interacts directly with KLF5 and stabilizes KLF5 via deubiquitination. KLF5 is in the BAP1/HCF-1 complex, and this newly identified complex promotes cell cycle progression partially by inhibiting p27 gene expression. Furthermore, BAP1 knockdown inhibits tumorigenicity and lung metastasis, which can be rescued partially by ectopic expression of KLF5. Collectively, our findings not only identify BAP1 as the DUB for KLF5, but also reveal a critical mechanism that regulates KLF5 expression in breast cancer. Our findings indicate that BAP1 could be a potential therapeutic target for breast and other cancers.

The zinc finger-containing transcription factor KLF5 drives cell proliferation and migration. Here, the authors show that the debuquitinase BAP1 directly stabilizes KLF5, thus promoting basal-like breast cancer cell-cycle progression and metastasis.

The SMAC mimetic BV6 sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to ionizing radiation by interfering with DNA repair processes and enhancing apoptosis

Background

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of counteracting inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins using the small molecule Second Mitochondria-derived Activator of Caspase (SMAC) mimetic BV6 in combination with ionizing radiation on apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair, three-dimensional (3D) clonogenic survival and expression of IAPs in colorectal carcinoma cells.

Material and methods

Colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT-15, HT-29, SW480) were subjected to BV6 treatment (0–4 μM) with or without irradiation (2–8 Gy, single dose) followed by MTT, Caspase 3/7 activity, γH2AX/53BP1 foci assays, AnnexinV staining, cell cycle analysis, 3D colony forming assays and Western blotting (cellular IAP1 (cIAP1) and cIAP2, Survivin, X-linked IAP (XIAP)).

Results

BV6 treatment decreased cell viability and significantly increased irradiation-induced apoptosis as analyzed by Caspase 3/7 activity, AnnexinV-positive and subG1 phase cells. While basal 3D clonogenic survival was decreased in a cell line-dependent manner, BV6 significantly enhanced cellular radiosensitivity of all cell lines in a concentration-dependent manner and increased the number of radiation-induced γH2AX/53BP1-positive foci. Western blot analysis revealed a markedly reduced cIAP1 expression at 4 h after BV6 treatment in all cell lines, a substantial reduction of XIAP expression in SW480 and HT-29 cells at 24 h and a slightly decreased cIAP2 expression in HCT-15 cells at 48 h after treatment. Moreover, single or double knockdown of cIAP1 and XIAP resulted in significantly increased residual γH2AX/53BP1-positive foci 24 h after 2 Gy and radiosensitization relative to control small interfering RNA (siRNA)-treated cells.

Conclusion

The SMAC mimetic BV6 induced apoptosis and hampered DNA damage repair to radiosensitize 3D grown colorectal cancer cells. Our results demonstrate IAP targeting as a promising strategy to counteract radiation resistance of colorectal cancer cells.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13014-015-0507-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A Natural Triterpene Derivative from Euphorbia kansui Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis against Rat Intestinal Epithelioid Cell Line in Vitro

Kansenone is a triterpene from the root of the traditional Chinese medicine, Euphorbia kansui. However, kansenone exerts serious toxicity, but the exact mechanism was not clear. In this work, the effects of kansenone on cell proliferation, cell cycle, cell damage, and cell apoptosis were investigated. The suppression of cell proliferation was assessed via the colorimetric MTT assay, and cell morphology was visualized via inverted microscopy after IEC-6 cells were incubated with different concentrations of kansenone. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were detected for evaluating cell damage. RNase/propidium iodide (PI) labeling for evaluation of cell cycle distribution was performed by flow cytometry analysis. Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/PI and Hoechst 33342/Annexin V-FITC/PI staining assay for cell apoptosis detection were performed using confocal laser scanning microscopy and high content screening. Moreover, apoptosis induction was further confirmed by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and JC-1 mitochondrial membrane potential, western blot and RT-PCR analysis. The results demonstrated that kansenone exerted high cytotoxicity, induced cell arrest at G0/G1 phase, and caused mitochondria damage. In addition, kansenone could up-regulate the apoptotic proteins Bax, AIF, Apaf-1, cytochrome c, caspase-3, caspase-9, caspase-8, FasR, FasL, NF-κB, and TNFR1 mRNA expression levels, and down-regulate the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins, revealing that kansenone induces apoptosis through both the death receptor and mitochondrial pathways.

Genetic susceptibility to cervical cancer: role of common polymorphisms in apoptosis-related genes

Cervical cancer is a common malignancy which poses a significant health burden among women, especially those living in the developing countries. Although human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been unequivocally implicated in the etiopathogenesis of the cancer, it alone is not adequate to contribute to the malignant transformation of cervical cells. Most HPV infections regress spontaneously, and only a small proportion of women have persistent infections which eventually lead to malignancy. This suggests that interplays between HPV infection and other cofactors certainly exist during the process of cervical carcinogenesis, which synergistically contribute to the differential susceptibility of an individual to the malignancy. Undoubtedly, host genetic factors represent a major element involved in such a synergistic interaction, and accumulating evidence suggests that polymorphisms in apoptosis-related genes play an important role in the genetic susceptibility to cervical cancer. This review consolidates the recent literatures on the role of common polymorphisms in apoptosis-related genes in genetic susceptibility to cervical cancer.

Phosphorylation of CHIP at Ser20 by Cdk5 promotes tAIF-mediated neuronal death

Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is a proline-directed serine/threonine kinase and its dysregulation is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Likewise, C-terminus of Hsc70-interacting protein (CHIP) is linked to neurological disorders, serving as an E3 ubiquitin ligase for targeting damaged or toxic proteins for proteasomal degradation. Here, we demonstrate that CHIP is a novel substrate for Cdk5. Cdk5 phosphorylates CHIP at Ser20 via direct binding to a highly charged domain of CHIP. Co-immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assays reveal that Cdk5-mediated phosphorylation disrupts the interaction between CHIP and truncated apoptosis-inducing factor (tAIF) without affecting CHIP's E3 ligase activity, resulting in the inhibition of CHIP-mediated degradation of tAIF. Lentiviral transduction assay shows that knockdown of Cdk5 or overexpression of CHIP(S20A), but not CHIP(WT), attenuates tAIF-mediated neuronal cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide. Thus, we conclude that Cdk5-mediated phosphorylation of CHIP negatively regulates its neuroprotective function, thereby contributing to neuronal cell death progression following neurotoxic stimuli.

Cellular IAP proteins and LUBAC differentially regulate necrosome-associated RIP1 ubiquitination

Necroptosis is a caspase-independent regulated type of cell death that relies on receptor-interacting protein kinases RIP1 (receptor-interacting protein kinases 1) and RIP3. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-stimulated assembly of the TNFR1 (TNF receptor 1)-associated signaling complex leads to the recruitment of RIP1, whose ubiquitination is mediated by the cellular inhibitors of apoptosis (c-IAPs). Translocation of RIP1 to the cytoplasm and association of RIP1 with the necrosome is believed to correlate with deubiquitination of RIP1. However, we found that RIP1 is ubiquitinated with K63 and linear polyubiquitin chains during TNFα, IAP antagonist BV6 and caspase inhibitor zVAD-fmk-induced necroptotic signaling. Furthermore, ubiquitinated RIP1 is associated with the necrosome, and RIP1 ubiquitination in the necrosome coincides with RIP3 phosphorylation. Both cellular IAPs and LUBAC (linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex) modulate RIP1 ubiquitination in IAP antagonist-treated necrotic cells, but they use different mechanisms. c-IAP1 regulates RIP1 recruitment to the necrosome without directly affecting RIP1 ubiquitination, whereas HOIP and HOIL1 mediate linear ubiquitination of RIP1 in the necrosome, but are not essential for necrosome formation. Knockdown of the E3 ligase c-IAP1 decreased RIP1 ubiquitination, necrosome assembly and necroptosis induced by TNFα, BV6 and zVAD-fmk. c-IAP1 deficiency likely decreases necroptotic cell death through the activation of the noncanonical NF-κB pathway and consequent c-IAP2 upregulation. The ability to upregulate c-IAP2 could determine whether c-IAP1 absence will have a positive or negative impact on TNFα-induced necroptotic cell death and necrosome formation. Collectively, these results reveal unexpected complexity of the roles of IAP proteins, IAP antagonists and LUBAC in the regulation of necrosome assembly.

The role of aberrant proteolysis in lymphomagenesis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Deregulated proteolysis is increasingly being implicated in pathogenesis of lymphoma. In this review, we highlight the major cellular processes that are affected by deregulated proteolysis of critical substrates that promote lymphoproliferative disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

Emerging evidence supports the role of aberrant proteolysis by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) in lymphoproliferative disorders. Several UPS mediators are identified to be altered in lymphomagenesis. However, the precise role of their alteration and comprehensive knowledge of their target substrate critical for lymphomagenesis is far from complete.

SUMMARY

Many E3 ligase and deubiquitinases that contribute to regulated proteolysis of substrates critical for major cellular processes are altered in various lineages of lymphoma. Understanding of the proteolytic regulatory mechanisms of these major cellular pathways may offer novel biomarkers and targets for lymphoma therapy.

Usp5 links suppression of p53 and FAS levels in melanoma to the BRAF pathway

Usp5 is a deubiquitinase (DUB) previously shown to regulate unanchored polyubiquitin (Ub) chains, p53 transcriptional activity and double-strand DNA repair. In BRAF mutant melanoma cells, Usp5 activity was suppressed by BRAF inhibitor (vemurafenib) in sensitive but not in acquired or intrinsically resistant cells. Usp5 knockdown overcame acquired vemurafenib resistance and sensitized BRAF and NRAS mutant melanoma cells to apoptosis initiated by MEK inhibitor, cytokines or DNA-damaging agents. Knockdown and overexpression studies demonstrated that Usp5 regulates p53 (and p73) levels and alters cell growth and cell cycle distribution associated with p21 induction. Usp5 also regulates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by modulating p53-dependent FAS expression. A small molecule DUB inhibitor (EOAI3402143) phenocopied the FAS induction and apoptotic sensitization of Usp5 knockdown and fully blocked melanoma tumor growth in mice. Overall, our results demonstrate that BRAF activates Usp5 to suppress cell cycle checkpoint control and apoptosis by blocking p53 and FAS induction; all of which can be restored by small molecule-mediated Usp5 inhibition. These results suggest that Usp5 inhibition can provide an alternate approach in recovery of diminished p53 (or p73) function in melanoma and can add to the targeted therapies already used in the treatment of melanoma.

The seventh zinc finger motif of A20 is required for the suppression of TNF-α-induced apoptosis

The ubiquitin-editing enzyme A20 suppresses nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced apoptosis in a deubiquitinating and ubiquitin ligase activity-dependent manner. Although recent studies revealed that A20 regulates NF-κB independently of its enzymatic activity through its seventh zinc finger motif (ZnF7), the involvement of ZnF7 in TNF-α-induced apoptosis is not clear. In this study, ZnF7 was found to be important for A20-mediated suppression of TNF-α-induced apoptosis. We also found that the ubiquitin ligases cIAP1/2 are required for A20 to suppress TNF-α-induced apoptosis. Because A20 binds to cIAP1/2 through ZnF7, these results suggest that A20 may control cIAP1/2 when suppressing TNF-α-induced apoptosis.

DUBs, the regulation of cell identity and disease

The post-translational modification of proteins with ubiquitin represents a complex signalling system that co-ordinates essential cellular functions, including proteolysis, DNA repair, receptor signalling and cell communication. DUBs (deubiquitinases), the enzymes that disassemble ubiquitin chains and remove ubiquitin from proteins, are central to this system. Reflecting the complexity and versatility of ubiquitin signalling, DUB activity is controlled in multiple ways. Although several lines of evidence indicate that aberrant DUB function may promote human disease, the underlying molecular mechanisms are often unclear. Notwithstanding, considerable interest in DUBs as potential drug targets has emerged over the past years. The future success of DUB-based therapy development will require connecting the basic science of DUB function and enzymology with drug discovery. In the present review, we discuss new insights into DUB activity regulation and their links to disease, focusing on the role of DUBs as regulators of cell identity and differentiation, and discuss their potential as emerging drug targets.

Immunoaffinity enrichment coupled to quantitative mass spectrometry reveals ubiquitin-mediated signaling events

Ubiquitination is one of the most prevalent posttranslational modifications in eukaryotic cells, with functional importance in protein degradation, subcellular localization and signal transduction pathways. Immunoaffinity enrichment coupled with quantitative mass spectrometry enables the in-depth characterization of protein ubiquitination events at the site-specific level. We have applied this strategy to investigate cellular response triggered by two distinct type agents: small molecule inhibitors of the tumor-associated kinases MEK and PI3K or the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-17. Temporal profiling of protein ubiquitination events across a series of time points covering the biological response permits interrogation of signaling through thousands of quantified proteins, of which only a subset display significant and physiologically meaningful regulation. Distinctive clusters of residues within proteins can display distinct temporal patterns attributable to diverse molecular functions, although the majority of differential ubiquitination appears as a coordinated response across the modifiable residues present within an individual substrate. In cells treated with a combination of MEK and PI3K inhibitors, we found differential ubiquitination of MEK within the first hour after treatment and a series of mitochondria proteins at later time points. In the IL-17 signaling pathway, ubiquitination events on several signaling proteins including HOIL-1 and Tollip were observed. The functional relevance of these putative IL-17 mediators was subsequently validated by knockdown of HOIL-1, HOIP and TOLIP, each of which decreased IL-17-stimulated cytokine production. Together, these data validate proteomic profiling of protein ubiquitination as a viable approach for identifying dynamic signaling components in response to intracellular and extracellular perturbations.

Trial Watch: Proteasomal inhibitors for anticancer therapy

The so-called "ubiquitin-proteasome system" (UPS) is a multicomponent molecular apparatus that catalyzes the covalent attachment of several copies of the small protein ubiquitin to other proteins that are generally (but not always) destined to proteasomal degradation. This enzymatic cascade is crucial for the maintenance of intracellular protein homeostasis (both in physiological conditions and in the course of adaptive stress responses), and regulates a wide array of signaling pathways. In line with this notion, defects in the UPS have been associated with aging as well as with several pathological conditions including cardiac, neurodegenerative, and neoplastic disorders. As transformed cells often experience a constant state of stress (as a result of the hyperactivation of oncogenic signaling pathways and/or adverse microenvironmental conditions), their survival and proliferation are highly dependent on the integrity of the UPS. This rationale has driven an intense wave of preclinical and clinical investigation culminating in 2003 with the approval of the proteasomal inhibitor bortezomib by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in multiple myeloma patients. Another proteasomal inhibitor, carfilzomib, is now licensed by international regulatory agencies for use in multiple myeloma patients, and the approved indications for bortezomib have been extended to mantle cell lymphoma. This said, the clinical activity of bortezomib and carfilzomib is often limited by off-target effects, innate/acquired resistance, and the absence of validated predictive biomarkers. Moreover, the antineoplastic activity of proteasome inhibitors against solid tumors is poor. In this Trial Watch we discuss the contribution of the UPS to oncogenesis and tumor progression and summarize the design and/or results of recent clinical studies evaluating the therapeutic profile of proteasome inhibitors in cancer patients.

IAPs and cell migration

Inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs) constitute a family of cell signaling regulators controlling several fundamental biological processes such as innate immunity, inflammation, cell death, cell proliferation, and cell differentiation. Increasing evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies indicate a function for IAPs in the modulation of invasive and migratory properties of cells. Here, we present and discuss the mechanisms whereby IAPs can control cell migration.

A novel function of RIP1 in postnatal development and immune homeostasis by protecting against RIP3-dependent necroptosis and FADD-mediated apoptosis

RIP1 is an adaptor kinase originally identified as being able to associate with TNFR1 and Fas, and is later shown to be involved in signaling induced by TLRs. Major signaling pathways regulated by RIP1 include necroptosis, apoptosis, and pro-survival/inflammation NF-κB activation. Previous studies show that RIP1 deficiency has no effect on mouse embryogenesis, but blocks postnatal development. This phenotype could not readily be explained, since mice lacking TNFR1, Fas, or TLRs show no apparent developmental defect. Certain types of RIP1-deficient cells are hypersensitive to TNF-induced apoptosis. However, in our previous study, deletion of the apoptotic adaptor protein, FADD, provides marginal improvement of postnatal development of rip1^−/− mice. Remarkably, the current data shows that haploid insufficiency of RIP3, a known mediator of necroptosis, allowed survival of rip1^−/−fadd^−/− mice beyond weaning age, although the resulting rip1^−/−fadd^−/− rip3^+/− mice were significant smaller in size and weight. Moreover, complete absence of RIP3 further improved postnatal development of the resulting rip1^−/−fadd^−/−rip3^−/− mice, which display normal size and weight. In such triple knockout (TKO) mice, lymphocytes underwent normal development, but progressively accumulated as mice age. This lymphoproliferative (lpr) disease in TKO mice is, however, less severe than that of fadd^−/−rip3^−/− double knockout mice. In total, the data show that the postnatal developmental defect in rip1^−/− mice is due in part to FADD-mediated apoptosis as well as RIP3-dependent necroptosis. Moreover, the function of RIP1 contributes to development of lpr diseases.

Regulation of pyruvate kinase isozyme M2 is mediated by the ubiquitin-specific protease 20

USP20, one of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) belonging to the subfamily of ubiquitin-specific protease (USP), regulates ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation. So far, USP20 has been identified as a binding protein and a regulator of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, β-adrenergic receptor, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6). In order to investigate other biological functions of USP20 with its novel substrates, we searched for putative substrates through two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS) analysis. We found several putative substrates, some of which are related to cancer metabolism or neural disorders. Among these, the pyruvate kinase isoenzyme M2 (PKM2) had a high identity score. Most cancer cells contain a specific metabolic pathway, referred to as the Warburg effect. One well-known function of PKM2 is a main regulator in cancer metabolic pathways, and PKM2 promotes the Warburg effect and tumor growth. In addition, both PKM2 and HIF-1α upregulate the expression of target genes. From this evidence, it is expected that USP20 would be associated with the metabolic pathway through the regulation of PKM2 ubiquitination. Despite various roles of DUBs, the biological functions of USP20 in cellular mechanisms are poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the inter-action between PKM2 and USP20. Our results suggest a new molecular pathway in cancer metabolism through the regulation of PKM2.

Ubiquitination profiling identifies sensitivity factors for IAP antagonist treatment

Using immunoaffinity enrichment methods coupled to MS, we identified IAP (inhibitor of apoptosis) antagonist-specific ubiquitination profile. Our study reveals that RIP1 (receptor-interacting protein 1) ubiquitination could serve as a prognostic biomarker for IAP antagonist treatment to enhance the efficacy of this therapeutic anti-tumour strategy.

Roles of c-IAP proteins in TNF receptor family activation of NF-κB signaling

Precise regulation of survival and signaling pathways is essential for proper maintenance of organismal homeostasis, development, and immune defense. Inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins are evolutionarily conserved regulators of cell death and immune signaling that impact numerous cellular processes. Initially characterized as inhibitors of apoptosis, the ubiquitin ligase activity of IAP proteins is critical for modulating various signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB, MAPK) and cellular fate. Cellular IAP1 and IAP2 regulate the pro-survival canonical NF-κB pathway by ubiquitinating RIP1 and enabling recruitment of kinase (IKK) and E3 ligase (LUBAC) complexes. On the other hand, c-IAP1 and c-IAP2 are negative regulators of noncanonical NF-κB signaling by promoting ubiquitination and consequent degradation of the NF-κB-inducing kinase NIK. In this article, we describe the involvement of c-IAP1 and c-IAP2 in NF-κB signaling and provide detailed methodology for examining how c-IAPs exert their functional roles.

Targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome system in heart disease: the basis for new therapeutic strategies

SIGNIFICANCE

Novel therapeutic strategies to treat heart failure are greatly needed. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) affects the structure and function of cardiac cells through targeted degradation of signaling and structural proteins. This review discusses both beneficial and detrimental consequences of modulating the UPS in the heart.

RECENT ADVANCES

Proteasome inhibitors were first used to test the role of the UPS in cardiac disease phenotypes, indicating therapeutic potential. In early cardiac remodeling and pathological hypertrophy with increased proteasome activities, proteasome inhibition prevented or restricted disease progression and contractile dysfunction. Conversely, enhancing proteasome activities by genetic manipulation, pharmacological intervention, or ischemic preconditioning also improved the outcome of cardiomyopathies and infarcted hearts with impaired cardiac and UPS function, which is, at least in part, caused by oxidative damage.

CRITICAL ISSUES

An understanding of the UPS status and the underlying mechanisms for its potential deregulation in cardiac disease is critical for targeted interventions. Several studies indicate that type and stage of cardiac disease influence the dynamics of UPS regulation in a nonlinear and multifactorial manner. Proteasome inhibitors targeting all proteasome complexes are associated with cardiotoxicity in humans. Furthermore, the type and dosage of proteasome inhibitor impact the pathogenesis in nonuniform ways.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Systematic analysis and targeting of individual UPS components with established and innovative tools will unravel and discriminate regulatory mechanisms that contribute to and protect against the progression of cardiac disease. Integrating this knowledge in drug design may reduce adverse effects on the heart as observed in patients treated with proteasome inhibitors against noncardiac diseases, especially cancer.

Deubiquitinase OTUD5 mediates the sequential activation of PDCD5 and p53 in response to genotoxic stress

Programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) positively regulates p53-mediated apoptosis and rapidly accumulates upon DNA damage. However, the underlying mechanism of PDCD5 upregulation during the DNA damage response remains unknown. Here, we found that OTU deubiquitinase 5 (OTUD5) was bound to PDCD5 in response to etoposide treatment and increased the stability of PDCD5 by mediating deubiquitination of PDCD5 at Lys-97/98. Overexpression of OTUD5 efficiently enhanced the activation of both PDCD5 and p53. Conversely, PDCD5 knockdown greatly attenuated the effect of OTUD5 on p53 activation. In addition, when OTUD5 was depleted, PDCD5 failed to facilitate p53 activation, demonstrating an essential role for the PDCD5-OTUD5 network in p53 activation. Importantly, we found that OTUD5-dependent PDCD5 stabilization was required for sequential activation of p53 in response to genotoxic stress. The sequential activation of PDCD5 and p53 was abrogated by knockdown of OTUD5. Finally, impairment of the genotoxic stress response upon PDCD5 ablation was substantially rescued by reintroducing PDCD5(WT) but not PDCD5(E94D) (defective for OTUD5 interaction) or PDCD5(E16D) (defective for p53 interaction). Together, our findings have uncovered an apoptotic signaling cascade linking PDCD5, OTUD5, and p53 during genotoxic stress responses.

Targeting the ubiquitin pathway for cancer treatment

Proteasome-mediated degradation is a common mechanism by which cells renew their intracellular proteins and maintain protein homeostasis. In this process, the E3 ubiquitin ligases are responsible for targeting specific substrates (proteins) for ubiquitin-mediated degradation. However, in cancer cells, the stability and the balance between oncoproteins and tumor suppressor proteins are disturbed in part due to deregulated proteasome-mediated degradation. This ultimately leads to either stabilization of oncoprotein(s) or increased degradation of tumor suppressor(s), contributing to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Therefore, E3 ubiquitin ligases including the SCF types of ubiquitin ligases have recently evolved as promising therapeutic targets for the development of novel anti-cancer drugs. In this review, we highlighted the critical components along the ubiquitin pathway including E1, E2, various E3 enzymes and DUBs that could serve as potential drug targets and also described the available bioactive compounds that target the ubiquitin pathway to control various cancers.

WWP2 is overexpressed in human oral cancer, determining tumor size and poor prognosis in patients: downregulation of WWP2 inhibits the AKT signaling and tumor growth in mice

The WW domain containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 (WWP2) encodes a member of the Nedd4 family of E3 ligases, which catalyzes the final step of the ubiquitination cascade. WWP2 is involved in tumoral growth with degradation of the tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome TEN (PTEN). However, little is known about the mechanisms and roles of WWP2 in human malignancies including oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs). We found frequent WWP2 overexpression in all OSCC-derived cell lines examined that was associated with cellular growth by accelerating the cell cycle in the G1 phase via degradation of PTEN and activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our in vivo data of WWP2 silencing showed dramatic inhibition of tumoral growth with increased expression of PTEN. Our 104 primary OSCCs had significantly higher expression of WWP2 than their normal counterparts. Moreover, among the clinical variables analyzed, enhanced WWP2 expression was correlated with primary tumoral size and poor prognosis. These data suggested that WWP2 overexpression contributes to neoplastic promotion via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway in OSCCs. WWP2 is likely to be a biomarker of tumoral progression and prognosis and a potential therapeutic target for development of anticancer drugs in OSCCs.

Inhibition of p53 deSUMOylation exacerbates puromycin aminonucleoside-induced apoptosis in podocytes

Apoptosis is a major cause of reduced podocyte numbers, which leads to proteinuria and/or glomerulosclerosis. Emerging evidence has indicated that deSUMOylation, a dynamic post-translational modification that reverses SUMOylation, is involved in the apoptosis of Burkitt’s lymphoma cells and cardiomyocytes; however, the impact of deSUMOylation on podocyte apoptosis remains unexplored. The p53 protein plays a major role in the pathogenesis of podocyte apoptosis, and p53 can be SUMOylated. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the effect of p53 deSUMOylation, which is regulated by sentrin/SUMO-specific protease 1 (SENP1), on podocyte apoptosis. Our results showed that SENP1 deficiency significantly increases puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced podocyte apoptosis. Moreover, SENP1 knockdown results in the accumulation of SUMOylated p53 protein and the increased expression of the p53 target pro-apoptotic genes, BAX, Noxa and PUMA, in podocytes during PAN stimulation. Thus, SENP1 may be essential for preventing podocyte apoptosis, at least partly through regulating the functions of p53 protein via deSUMOylation. The regulation of deSUMOylation may provide a novel strategy for the treatment of glomerular disorders that involve podocyte apoptosis.

Ubiquitination in disease pathogenesis and treatment

Ubiquitination is crucial for a plethora of physiological processes, including cell survival and differentiation and innate and adaptive immunity. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in the understanding of the molecular action of ubiquitin in signaling pathways and how alterations in the ubiquitin system lead to the development of distinct human diseases. Here we describe the role of ubiquitination in the onset and progression of cancer, metabolic syndromes, neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmunity, inflammatory disorders, infection and muscle dystrophies. Moreover, we indicate how current knowledge could be exploited for the development of new clinical therapies.

Detection of post-translational modifications in single peptides using electron tunnelling currents

Post-translational modifications alter the properties of proteins through the cleavage of peptide bonds or the addition of a modifying group to one or more amino acids. These modifications allow proteins to perform their primary biological functions, but single-protein studies of post-translational modifications have been hindered by a lack of suitable analysis methods. Here, we show that single amino acids can be identified using electron tunnelling currents measured as the individual molecules pass through a nanoscale gap between electrodes. We identify 12 different amino acids and the post-translational modification phosphotyrosine, which is involved in the process that switches enzymes on and off. Furthermore, we show that the conductance measurements can be used to partially sequence peptides of an epidermal growth factor receptor substrate, and can discriminate a peptide from its phosphorylated variant.