1
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Yang Z. The Principle of Cortical Development and Evolution. Neurosci Bull 2024:10.1007/s12264-024-01259-2. [PMID: 39023844 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01259-2] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Human's robust cognitive abilities, including creativity and language, are made possible, at least in large part, by evolutionary changes made to the cerebral cortex. This paper reviews the biology and evolution of mammalian cortical radial glial cells (primary neural stem cells) and introduces the concept that a genetically step wise process, based on a core molecular pathway already in use, is the evolutionary process that has molded cortical neurogenesis. The core mechanism, which has been identified in our recent studies, is the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-bone morphogenic protein 7 (BMP7)-GLI3 repressor form (GLI3R)-sonic hedgehog (SHH) positive feedback loop. Additionally, I propose that the molecular basis for cortical evolutionary dwarfism, exemplified by the lissencephalic mouse which originated from a larger gyrencephalic ancestor, is an increase in SHH signaling in radial glia, that antagonizes ERK-BMP7 signaling. Finally, I propose that: (1) SHH signaling is not a key regulator of primate cortical expansion and folding; (2) human cortical radial glial cells do not generate neocortical interneurons; (3) human-specific genes may not be essential for most cortical expansion. I hope this review assists colleagues in the field, guiding research to address gaps in our understanding of cortical development and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurology, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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2
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Klomp JE, Diehl JN, Klomp JA, Edwards AC, Yang R, Morales AJ, Taylor KE, Drizyte-Miller K, Bryant KL, Schaefer A, Johnson JL, Huntsman EM, Yaron TM, Pierobon M, Baldelli E, Prevatte AW, Barker NK, Herring LE, Petricoin EF, Graves LM, Cantley LC, Cox AD, Der CJ, Stalnecker CA. Determining the ERK-regulated phosphoproteome driving KRAS-mutant cancer. Science 2024; 384:eadk0850. [PMID: 38843329 PMCID: PMC11301400 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk0850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
To delineate the mechanisms by which the ERK1 and ERK2 mitogen-activated protein kinases support mutant KRAS-driven cancer growth, we determined the ERK-dependent phosphoproteome in KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer. We determined that ERK1 and ERK2 share near-identical signaling and transforming outputs and that the KRAS-regulated phosphoproteome is driven nearly completely by ERK. We identified 4666 ERK-dependent phosphosites on 2123 proteins, of which 79 and 66%, respectively, were not previously associated with ERK, substantially expanding the depth and breadth of ERK-dependent phosphorylation events and revealing a considerably more complex function for ERK in cancer. We established that ERK controls a highly dynamic and complex phosphoproteome that converges on cyclin-dependent kinase regulation and RAS homolog guanosine triphosphatase function (RHO GTPase). Our findings establish the most comprehensive molecular portrait and mechanisms by which ERK drives KRAS-dependent pancreatic cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Klomp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - J. Nathaniel Diehl
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Klomp
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - A. Cole Edwards
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Runying Yang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Alexis J. Morales
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Khalilah E. Taylor
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kristina Drizyte-Miller
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kirsten L. Bryant
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Antje Schaefer
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jared L. Johnson
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Emily M. Huntsman
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY 10065, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Tomer M. Yaron
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY 10065, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | | | - Elisa Baldelli
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Alex W. Prevatte
- UNC Michael Hooker Proteomics Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Natalie K. Barker
- UNC Michael Hooker Proteomics Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Laura E. Herring
- UNC Michael Hooker Proteomics Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | | | - Lee M. Graves
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Michael Hooker Proteomics Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lewis C. Cantley
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Adrienne D. Cox
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Channing J. Der
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Clint A. Stalnecker
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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3
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Rauen KA, Tidyman WE. RASopathies - what they reveal about RAS/MAPK signaling in skeletal muscle development. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050609. [PMID: 38847227 PMCID: PMC11179721 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050609] [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] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies are rare developmental genetic syndromes caused by germline pathogenic variants in genes that encode components of the RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathway. Although the incidence of each RASopathy syndrome is rare, collectively, they represent one of the largest groups of multiple congenital anomaly syndromes and have severe developmental consequences. Here, we review our understanding of how RAS/MAPK dysregulation in RASopathies impacts skeletal muscle development and the importance of RAS/MAPK pathway regulation for embryonic myogenesis. We also discuss the complex interactions of this pathway with other intracellular signaling pathways in the regulation of skeletal muscle development and growth, and the opportunities that RASopathy animal models provide for exploring the use of pathway inhibitors, typically used for cancer treatment, to correct the unique skeletal myopathy caused by the dysregulation of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Rauen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genomic Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
- University of California Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - William E Tidyman
- University of California Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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4
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Bjorklund GR, Rees KP, Balasubramanian K, Hewitt LT, Nishimura K, Newbern JM. Hyperactivation of MEK1 in cortical glutamatergic neurons results in projection axon deficits and aberrant motor learning. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050570. [PMID: 38826084 PMCID: PMC11247507 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050570] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2, encoded by Mapk3 and Mapk1, respectively) signaling is linked to multiple neurodevelopmental diseases, especially the RASopathies, which typically exhibit ERK1/2 hyperactivation in neurons and non-neuronal cells. To better understand how excitatory neuron-autonomous ERK1/2 activity regulates forebrain development, we conditionally expressed a hyperactive MEK1 (MAP2K1) mutant, MEK1S217/221E, in cortical excitatory neurons of mice. MEK1S217/221E expression led to persistent hyperactivation of ERK1/2 in cortical axons, but not in soma/nuclei. We noted reduced axonal arborization in multiple target domains in mutant mice and reduced the levels of the activity-dependent protein ARC. These changes did not lead to deficits in voluntary locomotion or accelerating rotarod performance. However, skilled motor learning in a single-pellet retrieval task was significantly diminished in these MEK1S217/221E mutants. Restriction of MEK1S217/221E expression to layer V cortical neurons recapitulated axonal outgrowth deficits but did not affect motor learning. These results suggest that cortical excitatory neuron-autonomous hyperactivation of MEK1 is sufficient to drive deficits in axon outgrowth, which coincide with reduced ARC expression, and deficits in skilled motor learning. Our data indicate that neuron-autonomous decreases in long-range axonal outgrowth may be a key aspect of neuropathogenesis in RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Bjorklund
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Katherina P. Rees
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | | | - Lauren T. Hewitt
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Kenji Nishimura
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Jason M. Newbern
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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5
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Sigaud R, Brummer T, Kocher D, Milde T, Selt F. MOST wanted: navigating the MAPK-OIS-SASP-tumor microenvironment axis in primary pediatric low-grade glioma and preclinical models. Childs Nerv Syst 2024:10.1007/s00381-024-06463-z. [PMID: 38789691 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-024-06463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving pediatric low-grade glioma (pLGG)-the most prevalent brain tumor in children-is essential for the identification and evaluation of novel effective treatments. This review explores the intricate relationship between the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, oncogene-induced senescence (OIS), the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), and the tumor microenvironment (TME), integrating these elements into a unified framework termed the MAPK/OIS/SASP/TME (MOST) axis. This integrated approach seeks to deepen our understanding of pLGG and improve therapeutic interventions by examining the MOST axis' critical influence on tumor biology and response to treatment. In this review, we assess the axis' capacity to integrate various biological processes, highlighting new targets for pLGG treatment, and the need for characterized in vitro and in vivo preclinical models recapitulating pLGG's complexity to test targets. The review underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy in pLGG research, positioning the MOST axis as a pivotal approach in understanding pLGG. This comprehensive framework will open promising avenues for patient care and guide future research towards inventive treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Sigaud
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Pediatric Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Tilman Brummer
- Institute, of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research (IMMZ), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, University of Freiburg and German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniela Kocher
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Pediatric Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Till Milde
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Pediatric Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florian Selt
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Pediatric Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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6
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Wilson SE. Two-phase mechanism in the treatment of corneal stromal fibrosis with topical losartan. Exp Eye Res 2024; 242:109884. [PMID: 38570181 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies in rabbits and case reports in humans have demonstrated the efficacy of topical losartan in the treatment of corneal scarring fibrosis after a wide range of injuries, including chemical burns, infections, surgical complications, and some diseases. It is hypothesized that the effect of losartan on the fibrotic corneal stroma occurs through a two-phase process in which losartan first triggers the elimination of myofibroblasts by directing their apoptosis via inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-mediated signal transduction, and possibly through signaling effects on the viability and development of corneal fibroblast and fibrocyte myofibroblast precursor cells. This first step likely occurs within a week or two in most corneas with fibrosis treated with topical losartan, but the medication must be continued for much longer until the epithelial basement membrane (EBM) is fully regenerated or new myofibroblasts will develop from precursor cells. Once the myofibroblasts are eliminated from the fibrotic stroma, corneal fibroblasts can migrate into the fibrotic tissue and reabsorb/reorganize the disordered extracellular matrix (ECM) previously produced by the myofibroblasts. This second stage is longer and more variable in different eyes of rabbits and humans, and accounts for most of the variability in the time it takes for the stromal opacity to be markedly reduced by topical losartan treatment. Eventually, keratocytes reemerge in the previously fibrotic stromal tissue to fine-tune the collagens and other ECM components and maintain the normal structure of the corneal stroma. The efficacy of losartan in the prevention and treatment of corneal fibrosis suggests that it acts as a surrogate for the EBM, by suppressing TGF beta-directed scarring of the wounded corneal stroma, until control over TGF beta action is re-established by a healed EBM, while also supporting regeneration of the EBM by allowing corneal fibroblasts to occupy the subepithelial stroma in the place of myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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7
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Timofeev O, Giron P, Lawo S, Pichler M, Noeparast M. ERK pathway agonism for cancer therapy: evidence, insights, and a target discovery framework. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:70. [PMID: 38485987 PMCID: PMC10940698 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00554-5] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
At least 40% of human cancers are associated with aberrant ERK pathway activity (ERKp). Inhibitors targeting various effectors within the ERKp have been developed and explored for over two decades. Conversely, a substantial body of evidence suggests that both normal human cells and, notably to a greater extent, cancer cells exhibit susceptibility to hyperactivation of ERKp. However, this vulnerability of cancer cells remains relatively unexplored. In this review, we reexamine the evidence on the selective lethality of highly elevated ERKp activity in human cancer cells of varying backgrounds. We synthesize the insights proposed for harnessing this vulnerability of ERK-associated cancers for therapeutical approaches and contextualize these insights within established pharmacological cancer-targeting models. Moreover, we compile the intriguing preclinical findings of ERK pathway agonism in diverse cancer models. Lastly, we present a conceptual framework for target discovery regarding ERKp agonism, emphasizing the utilization of mutual exclusivity among oncogenes to develop novel targeted therapies for precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Timofeev
- Institute of Molecular Oncology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Philipps University, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Philippe Giron
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Clinical Sciences, Research group Genetics, Reproduction and Development, Centre for Medical Genetics, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Steffen Lawo
- CRISPR Screening Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Pichler
- Translational Oncology, II. Med Clinics Hematology and Oncology, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Maxim Noeparast
- Translational Oncology, II. Med Clinics Hematology and Oncology, 86156, Augsburg, Germany.
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8
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Javary J, Goupil E, Soulez M, Kanshin E, Bouchard A, Seternes OM, Thibault P, Labbé JC, Meloche S. Phosphoproteomic analysis identifies supervillin as an ERK3 substrate regulating cytokinesis and cell ploidy. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e30938. [PMID: 36576983 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 3 (ERK3) is a poorly characterized member of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase family. Functional analysis of the ERK3 signaling pathway has been hampered by a lack of knowledge about the substrates and downstream effectors of the kinase. Here, we used large-scale quantitative phosphoproteomics and targeted gene silencing to identify direct ERK3 substrates and gain insight into its cellular functions. Detailed validation of one candidate substrate identified the gelsolin/villin family member supervillin (SVIL) as a bona fide ERK3 substrate. We show that ERK3 phosphorylates SVIL on Ser245 to regulate myosin II activation and cytokinesis completion in dividing cells. Depletion of SVIL or ERK3 leads to increased cytokinesis failure and multinucleation, a phenotype rescued by wild type SVIL but not by the non-phosphorylatable S245A mutant. Our results unveil a new function of the atypical MAP kinase ERK3 in cell division and the regulation of cell ploidy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Javary
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eugénie Goupil
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mathilde Soulez
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Evgeny Kanshin
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Antoine Bouchard
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Pierre Thibault
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Labbé
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Molecular Biology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvain Meloche
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Molecular Biology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Xie J, Zhao Y, Liu X, Li L, Yu L, Wang M, Li Q. The effect and mechanism of novel methoxy curcumin analogs based on network pharmacology. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e36483. [PMID: 38363917 PMCID: PMC10869041 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, a series of novel compounds were synthesized by introducing the 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl and isatin groups into the monocarbonyl skeleton of curcumin. The possible biological activities and potential targets for these compounds were explored through network pharmacology. The results revealed that these compounds could significantly inhibit production of the inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α, and suppress phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) protein. Moreover, molecular docking experiments showed that the ERK protein was the potential target for these compounds. In summary, this study, through network pharmacology, presents a novel series of methoxy curcumin analogs as potent anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Xie
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingxin Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xingyu Liu
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Army Medical Center, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingling Li
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengxuan Wang
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Health, Chongqing Industry & Trade Polytechnic, Chongqing, China
- Army Medical Center, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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10
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Ureña E, Xu B, Regan JC, Atilano ML, Minkley LJ, Filer D, Lu YX, Bolukbasi E, Khericha M, Alic N, Partridge L. Trametinib ameliorates aging-associated gut pathology in Drosophila females by reducing Pol III activity in intestinal stem cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2311313121. [PMID: 38241436 PMCID: PMC10823232 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311313121] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological therapies are promising interventions to slow down aging and reduce multimorbidity in the elderly. Studies in animal models are the first step toward translation of candidate molecules into human therapies, as they aim to elucidate the molecular pathways, cellular mechanisms, and tissue pathologies involved in the anti-aging effects. Trametinib, an allosteric inhibitor of MEK within the Ras/MAPK (Ras/Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase) pathway and currently used as an anti-cancer treatment, emerged as a geroprotector candidate because it extended lifespan in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Here, we confirm that trametinib consistently and robustly extends female lifespan, and reduces intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation, tumor formation, tissue dysplasia, and barrier disruption in guts in aged flies. In contrast, pro-longevity effects of trametinib are weak and inconsistent in males, and it does not influence gut homeostasis. Inhibition of the Ras/MAPK pathway specifically in ISCs is sufficient to partially recapitulate the effects of trametinib. Moreover, in ISCs, trametinib decreases the activity of the RNA polymerase III (Pol III), a conserved enzyme synthesizing transfer RNAs and other short, non-coding RNAs, and whose inhibition also extends lifespan and reduces gut pathology. Finally, we show that the pro-longevity effect of trametinib in ISCs is partially mediated by Maf1, a repressor of Pol III, suggesting a life-limiting Ras/MAPK-Maf1-Pol III axis in these cells. The mechanism of action described in this work paves the way for further studies on the anti-aging effects of trametinib in mammals and shows its potential for clinical application in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enric Ureña
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Bowen Xu
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer C. Regan
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Magda L. Atilano
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy J. Minkley
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Danny Filer
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Yu-Xuan Lu
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, CologneD-50931, Germany
| | - Ekin Bolukbasi
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Mobina Khericha
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Nazif Alic
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Partridge
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, LondonWC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, CologneD-50931, Germany
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11
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Sun Z, Cai Y, Chen Y, Jin Q, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Li Y, Huang L, Wang J, Yang Y, Lv Q, Han Z, Xie M, Zhu X. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction promotes PDGF-primed bone mesenchymal stem cell transplantation for myocardial protection in acute Myocardial Infarction in rats. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:481. [PMID: 38102643 PMCID: PMC10725038 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02204-7] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) has emerged as a promising strategy for the targeted delivery of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the ischemic myocardium. However, the limited migration capacity and poor survival of MSCs remains a major therapeutic barrier. The present study was performed to investigate the synergistic effect of UTMD with platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) on the homing of MSCs for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). METHODS MSCs from male donor rats were treated with PDGF-BB, and a novel microbubble formulation was prepared using a thin-film hydration method. In vivo, MSCs with or without PDGF-BB pretreatment were transplanted by UTMD after inducing AMI in experimental rats. The therapeutic efficacy of PDGF-BB-primed MSCs on myocardial apoptosis, angiogenesis, cardiac function and scar repair was estimated. The effects and molecular mechanisms of PDGF-BB on MSC migration and survival were explored in vitro. RESULTS The results showed that the biological effects of UTMD increased the local levels of stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1), which promoted the migration of transplanted MSCs to the ischemic region. Compared with UTMD alone, UTMD combined with PDGF-BB pretreatment significantly increased the cardiac homing of MSCs, which subsequently reduced myocardial apoptosis, promoted neovascularization and tissue repair, and increased cardiac function 30 days after MI. The vitro results demonstrated that PDGF-BB enhanced MSC migration and protected these cells from H2O2-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, PDGF-BB pretreatment promoted MSC migration and inhibited H2O2-induced MSC apoptosis via activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase (PI3K/Akt) pathway. Furthermore, crosstalk between PDGF-BB and stromal-derived factor-1/chemokine receptor 4 (SDF-1/CXCR4) is involved in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that UTMD combined with PDGF-BB treatment could enhance the homing ability of MSCs, thus alleviating AMI in rats. Therefore, UTMD combined with PDGF-BB pretreatment may offer exciting therapeutic opportunities for strengthening MSC therapy in ischemic diseases.
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Grants
- 81701716; 82230066, 81922033, 81727805, 82171961, 81801715, 81801716 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81701716; 82230066, 81922033, 81727805, 82171961, 81801715, 81801716 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81701716; 82230066, 81922033, 81727805, 82171961, 81801715, 81801716 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81701716; 82230066, 81922033, 81727805, 82171961, 81801715, 81801716 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81701716; 82230066, 81922033, 81727805, 82171961, 81801715, 81801716 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 2018CFB568 National Natural Science Foundation of Hubei
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Sun
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230031, China
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241001, China
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Cai
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiaofeng Jin
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Ziming Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuman Li
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Yali Yang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing Lv
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhengyang Han
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Mingxing Xie
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, 430022, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xiangming Zhu
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230031, China.
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241001, China.
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12
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Ram A, Murphy D, DeCuzzi N, Patankar M, Hu J, Pargett M, Albeck JG. A guide to ERK dynamics, part 2: downstream decoding. Biochem J 2023; 480:1909-1928. [PMID: 38038975 PMCID: PMC10754290 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20230277] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Signaling by the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway controls many cellular processes, including cell division, death, and differentiation. In this second installment of a two-part review, we address the question of how the ERK pathway exerts distinct and context-specific effects on multiple processes. We discuss how the dynamics of ERK activity induce selective changes in gene expression programs, with insights from both experiments and computational models. With a focus on single-cell biosensor-based studies, we summarize four major functional modes for ERK signaling in tissues: adjusting the size of cell populations, gradient-based patterning, wave propagation of morphological changes, and diversification of cellular gene expression states. These modes of operation are disrupted in cancer and other related diseases and represent potential targets for therapeutic intervention. By understanding the dynamic mechanisms involved in ERK signaling, there is potential for pharmacological strategies that not only simply inhibit ERK, but also restore functional activity patterns and improve disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhineet Ram
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - Devan Murphy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - Nicholaus DeCuzzi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - Madhura Patankar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - Jason Hu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - Michael Pargett
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
| | - John G. Albeck
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A
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13
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Jahin I, Phillips T, Marcotti S, Gorey MA, Cox S, Parsons M. Extracellular matrix stiffness activates mechanosensitive signals but limits breast cancer cell spheroid proliferation and invasion. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1292775. [PMID: 38125873 PMCID: PMC10731024 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1292775] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is characterized by physical changes that occur in the tumor microenvironment throughout growth and metastasis of tumors. Extracellular matrix stiffness increases as tumors develop and spread, with stiffer environments thought to correlate with poorer disease prognosis. Changes in extracellular stiffness and other physical characteristics are sensed by integrins which integrate these extracellular cues to intracellular signaling, resulting in modulation of proliferation and invasion. However, the co-ordination of mechano-sensitive signaling with functional changes to groups of tumor cells within 3-dimensional environments remains poorly understood. Here we provide evidence that increasing the stiffness of collagen scaffolds results in increased activation of ERK1/2 and YAP in human breast cancer cell spheroids. We also show that ERK1/2 acts upstream of YAP activation in this context. We further demonstrate that YAP, matrix metalloproteinases and actomyosin contractility are required for collagen remodeling, proliferation and invasion in lower stiffness scaffolds. However, the increased activation of these proteins in higher stiffness 3-dimensional collagen gels is correlated with reduced proliferation and reduced invasion of cancer cell spheroids. Our data collectively provide evidence that higher stiffness 3-dimensional environments induce mechano-signaling but contrary to evidence from 2-dimensional studies, this is not sufficient to promote pro-tumorigenic effects in breast cancer cell spheroids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Maddy Parsons
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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14
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Torres Robles J, Lou HJ, Shi G, Pan PL, Turk BE. Linear motif specificity in signaling through p38α and ERK2 mitogen-activated protein kinases. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2316599120. [PMID: 37988460 PMCID: PMC10691213 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316599120] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are essential for eukaryotic cells to integrate and respond to diverse stimuli. Maintaining specificity in signaling through MAPK networks is key to coupling distinct inputs to appropriate cellular responses. Docking sites-short linear motifs found in MAPK substrates, regulators, and scaffolds-can promote signaling specificity through selective interactions, but how they do so remains unresolved. Here, we screened a proteomic library for sequences interacting with the MAPKs extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) and p38α, identifying selective and promiscuous docking motifs. Sequences specific for p38α had high net charge and lysine content, and selective binding depended on a pair of acidic residues unique to the p38α docking interface. Finally, we validated a set of full-length proteins harboring docking sites selected in our screens to be authentic MAPK interactors and substrates. This study identifies features that help define MAPK signaling networks and explains how specific docking motifs promote signaling integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaylissa Torres Robles
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Hua Jane Lou
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Guangda Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | | | - Benjamin E. Turk
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
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15
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Martin-Vega A, Cobb MH. Navigating the ERK1/2 MAPK Cascade. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1555. [PMID: 37892237 PMCID: PMC10605237 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101555] [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] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS-ERK pathway is a fundamental signaling cascade crucial for many biological processes including proliferation, cell cycle control, growth, and survival; common across all cell types. Notably, ERK1/2 are implicated in specific processes in a context-dependent manner as in stem cells and pancreatic β-cells. Alterations in the different components of this cascade result in dysregulation of the effector kinases ERK1/2 which communicate with hundreds of substrates. Aberrant activation of the pathway contributes to a range of disorders, including cancer. This review provides an overview of the structure, activation, regulation, and mutational frequency of the different tiers of the cascade; with a particular focus on ERK1/2. We highlight the importance of scaffold proteins that contribute to kinase localization and coordinate interaction dynamics of the kinases with substrates, activators, and inhibitors. Additionally, we explore innovative therapeutic approaches emphasizing promising avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Martin-Vega
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Melanie H. Cobb
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Rd., Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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16
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Juul N, Willacy O, Mamand DR, Andaloussi SE, Eisfeldt J, Chamorro CI, Fossum M. Insights into cellular behavior and micromolecular communication in urothelial micrografts. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13589. [PMID: 37604899 PMCID: PMC10442416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40049-0] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Autologous micrografting is a technique currently applied within skin wound healing, however, the potential use for surgical correction of other organs with epithelial lining, including the urinary bladder, remains largely unexplored. Currently, little is known about the micrograft expansion potential and the micromolecular events that occur in micrografted urothelial cells. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the proliferative potential of different porcine urothelial micrograft sizes in vitro, and, furthermore, to explore how urothelial micrografts communicate and which microcellular events are triggered. We demonstrated that increased tissue fragmentation subsequently potentiated the yield of proliferative cells and the cellular expansion potential, which confirms, that the micrografting principles of skin epithelium also apply to uroepithelium. Furthermore, we targeted the expression of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway and demonstrated that ERK activation occurred predominately at the micrograft borders and that ERK inhibition led to decreased urothelial migration and proliferation. Finally, we successfully isolated extracellular vesicles from the micrograft culture medium and evaluated their contents and relevance within various enriched biological processes. Our findings substantiate the potential of applying urothelial micrografting in future tissue-engineering models for reconstructive urological surgery, and, furthermore, highlights certain mechanisms as potential targets for future wound healing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Juul
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Henrik Harpestrengs Vej 4C, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Oliver Willacy
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Henrik Harpestrengs Vej 4C, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Doste R Mamand
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Jesper Eisfeldt
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Clara I Chamorro
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Henrik Harpestrengs Vej 4C, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magdalena Fossum
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Henrik Harpestrengs Vej 4C, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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17
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Zimmerman JA, Fang M, Pufall MA. PI3Kδ inhibition potentiates glucocorticoids in B-lymphoblastic leukemia by decreasing receptor phosphorylation and enhancing gene regulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.10.527869. [PMID: 36798391 PMCID: PMC9934697 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.10.527869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids, including dexamethasone and prednisone, are the cornerstone of B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) therapy. Because response to glucocorticoids alone predicts overall outcomes for B-ALL, enhancing glucocorticoid potency is a route to improving outcomes. However, systematic toxicities prevent the use of higher dose and more potent glucocorticoids. We therefore took a functional genomic approach to identify targets to enhance glucocorticoid activity specifically in B-ALL cells. Here we show that inhibition of the lymphoid-restricted PI3Kδ, signaling through the RAS/MAPK pathway, enhances both prednisone and dexamethasone activity in almost all ex vivo B-ALL specimens tested. This potentiation is most synergistic at sub-saturating doses of glucocorticoids, approaching the EC50. Potentiation correlates with global enhancement of glucocorticoid-induced gene regulation, including regulation of effector genes that drive B-ALL cell death. Idelalisib reduces phosphorylation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) at MAPK1/ERK2 targets S203 and S226, and ablation of these phospho-acceptor sites enhances glucocorticoid potency. We further show that phosphorylation of S226 reduces the affinity of GR for DNA in vitro, which impairs DNA binding. We therefore propose that PI3Kδ inhibition improves glucocorticoid efficacy in B-ALL in part by decreasing GR phosphorylation, increasing DNA binding affinity, and enhancing downstream gene regulation. The overall enhancement of GR function suggests that idelalisib will provide benefit to most patients with B-ALL by improving outcomes for patients whose disease is less responsive to glucocorticoid-based therapy, including high-risk disease, and allowing less toxic glucocorticoid-sparing strategies for patients with standard-risk disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A.O. Zimmerman
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mimi Fang
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Miles A. Pufall
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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18
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Liu Z, Krstic A, Neve A, Casalou C, Rauch N, Wynne K, Cassidy H, McCann A, Kavanagh E, McCann B, Blanco A, Rauch J, Kolch W. Kinase Suppressor of RAS 1 (KSR1) Maintains the Transformed Phenotype of BRAFV600E Mutant Human Melanoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11821. [PMID: 37511580 PMCID: PMC10380721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411821] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinase Suppressor of RAS 1 (KSR1) is a scaffolding protein for the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway, which is one of the most frequently altered pathways in human cancers. Previous results have shown that KSR1 has a critical role in mutant RAS-mediated transformation. Here, we examined the role of KSR1 in mutant BRAF transformation. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to knock out KSR1 in a BRAFV600E-transformed melanoma cell line. KSR1 loss produced a complex phenotype characterised by impaired proliferation, cell cycle defects, decreased transformation, decreased invasive migration, increased cellular senescence, and increased apoptosis. To decipher this phenotype, we used a combination of proteomic ERK substrate profiling, global protein expression profiling, and biochemical validation assays. The results suggest that KSR1 directs ERK to phosphorylate substrates that have a critical role in ensuring cell survival. The results further indicate that KSR1 loss induces the activation of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and subsequent cell cycle aberrations and senescence. In summary, KSR1 function plays a key role in oncogenic BRAF transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Liu
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aleksandar Krstic
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ashish Neve
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Cristina Casalou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nora Rauch
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kieran Wynne
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hilary Cassidy
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Amanda McCann
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emma Kavanagh
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brendan McCann
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alfonso Blanco
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jens Rauch
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland (SBI), School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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19
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Vidal-Cruchez O, Nicolini VJ, Rete T, Jacquet K, Rezzonico R, Lacoux C, Domdom MA, Roméo B, Roux J, Hubstenberger A, Mari B, Mograbi B, Hofman P, Brest P. KRAS and NRAS Translation Is Increased upon MEK Inhibitors-Induced Processing Bodies Dissolution. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3078. [PMID: 37370689 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123078] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Overactivation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a critical driver of many human cancers. However, therapies directly targeting this pathway lead to cancer drug resistance. Resistance has been linked to compensatory RAS overexpression, but the mechanisms underlying this response remain unclear. Here, we find that MEK inhibitors (MEKi) are associated with an increased translation of the KRAS and NRAS oncogenes through a mechanism involving dissolution of processing body (P-body) biocondensates. This effect is seen across different cell types and is extremely dynamic since removal of MEKi and ERK reactivation result in reappearance of P-bodies and reduced RAS-dependent signaling. Moreover, we find that P-body scaffold protein levels negatively impact RAS expression. Overall, we describe a new feedback loop mechanism involving biocondensates such as P-bodies in the translational regulation of RAS proteins and MAPK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Vidal-Cruchez
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Victoria J Nicolini
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Tifenn Rete
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Karine Jacquet
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Roger Rezzonico
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, CNRS UMR7275, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Caroline Lacoux
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR7275, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Marie-Angela Domdom
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Barnabé Roméo
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Jérémie Roux
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR7275, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Arnaud Hubstenberger
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institut Biologie Valrose (IBV), CNRS, Inserm, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Bernard Mari
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR7275, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Baharia Mograbi
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, CHU-Nice, Pasteur Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Hospital-Integrated Biobank (BB-0033-00025), 06001 Nice, France
| | - Patrick Brest
- Université Côte d'Azur, Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS, INSERM, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 28, Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
- FHU-OncoAge, IHU-RESPIRera, 06001 Nice, France
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20
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Tomasso A, Koopmans T, Lijnzaad P, Bartscherer K, Seifert AW. An ERK-dependent molecular switch antagonizes fibrosis and promotes regeneration in spiny mice ( Acomys). SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf2331. [PMID: 37126559 PMCID: PMC10132760 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Although most mammals heal injured tissues and organs with scarring, spiny mice (Acomys) naturally regenerate skin and complex musculoskeletal tissues. Now, the core signaling pathways driving mammalian tissue regeneration are poorly characterized. Here, we show that, while immediate extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation is a shared feature of scarring (Mus) and regenerating (Acomys) injuries, ERK activity is only sustained at high levels during complex tissue regeneration. Following ERK inhibition, ear punch regeneration in Acomys shifted toward fibrotic repair. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we identified ERK-responsive cell types. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments prompted us to uncover fibroblast growth factor and ErbB signaling as upstream ERK regulators of regeneration. The ectopic activation of ERK in scar-prone injuries induced a pro-regenerative response, including cell proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and hair follicle neogenesis. Our data detail an important distinction in ERK activity between regenerating and poorly regenerating adult mammals and open avenues to redirect fibrotic repair toward regenerative healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Tomasso
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
- Cells in Motion Cluster of Excellence-International Max Planck Research School (CiM-IMPRS Graduate Program), Münster 48149, Germany
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences), Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584CT, Netherlands
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Osnabrück University, Barbarastrasse 11, Osnabrück 49076, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, 101 T.H. Morgan Building, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Tim Koopmans
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences), Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584CT, Netherlands
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Osnabrück University, Barbarastrasse 11, Osnabrück 49076, Germany
| | - Philip Lijnzaad
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, Utrecht 3584 CS, Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Bartscherer
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
- Cells in Motion Cluster of Excellence-International Max Planck Research School (CiM-IMPRS Graduate Program), Münster 48149, Germany
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences), Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht 3584CT, Netherlands
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Osnabrück University, Barbarastrasse 11, Osnabrück 49076, Germany
| | - Ashley W Seifert
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, 101 T.H. Morgan Building, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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21
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Iglesias-Martinez LF, Rauch N, Wynne K, McCann B, Kolch W, Rauch J. Interactome dynamics of RAF1-BRAF kinase monomers and dimers. Sci Data 2023; 10:203. [PMID: 37045861 PMCID: PMC10097620 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02115-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RAF kinases play major roles in cancer. BRAFV600E mutants drive ~6% of human cancers. Potent kinase inhibitors exist but show variable effects in different cancer types, sometimes even inducing paradoxical RAF kinase activation. Both paradoxical activation and drug resistance are frequently due to enhanced dimerization between RAF1 and BRAF, which maintains or restores the activity of the downstream MEK-ERK pathway. Here, using quantitative proteomics we mapped the interactomes of RAF1 monomers, RAF1-BRAF and RAF1-BRAFV600E dimers identifying and quantifying >1,000 proteins. In addition, we examined the effects of vemurafenib and sorafenib, two different types of clinically used RAF inhibitors. Using regression analysis to compare different conditions we found a large overlapping core interactome but also distinct condition specific differences. Given that RAF proteins have kinase independent functions such dynamic interactome changes could contribute to their functional diversification. Analysing this dataset may provide a deeper understanding of RAF signalling and mechanisms of resistance to RAF inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nora Rauch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kieran Wynne
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brendan McCann
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Voscuris Ltd., Jefferson House 42 Queen Street, Belfast, BT1 6HL, United Kingdom
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Jens Rauch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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22
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Yu W, Peng Y, Peng X, Li Z, Liu C, Yang L, Gao Y, Liang S, Yuan B, Chen C, Kim NH, Jiang H, Zhang J. 6-Gingerol Improves In Vitro Porcine Embryo Development by Reducing Oxidative Stress. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081315. [PMID: 37106877 PMCID: PMC10135256 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081315] [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: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
6-Gingerol, the main active ingredient in ginger, exhibits a variety of biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, and can affect cell development. However, the effects of 6-gingerol on mammalian reproductive processes, especially early embryonic development, are unclear. This study explored whether 6-gingerol can be used to improve the quality of in vitro-cultured porcine embryos. The results showed that 5 μM 6-gingerol significantly increased the blastocyst formation rates of porcine early embryos. 6-Gingerol attenuated intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation and autophagy, increased intracellular glutathione levels, and increased mitochondrial activity. In addition, 6-gingerol upregulated NANOG, SRY-box transcription factor 2, cytochrome c oxidase subunit II, mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase, and RPTOR independent companion of MTOR complex 2 while downregulating Caspase 3, baculoviral IAP repeat containing 5, autophagy related 12, and Beclin 1. Most importantly, 6-gingerol significantly increased the levels of p-extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 while reducing the levels of p-c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2/3 and p-p38. These results indicate that 6-gingerol can promote the development of porcine early embryos in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yanxia Peng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xinyue Peng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Ze Li
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Grains, Jilin Business and Technology College, Changchun 130507, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Tongyu Grassland Management Station, Changchun 137200, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Chengzhen Chen
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiabao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
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23
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Resveratrol improves hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting neutrophils via the ERK signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114358. [PMID: 36739762 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114358] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is the main complication and even mortality in the setting of hepatic surgery or transplantation. Inflammation, especially the neutrophil response, plays important roles during the process of HIRI. In this study, we found that resveratrol preintervention ameliorated IRI-induced hepatic injury and neutrophil inflammatory responses in the liver. Moreover, RNA-sequencing analysis showed that resveratrol inhibited the functions of neutrophils, such as survival, cell cycle, migration and chemotaxis, oxidative stress and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Resveratrol restrained oxidative stress and the inflammatory response of neutrophils via inhibition of endothelin 1 autocrine signaling by suppressing the ERK signaling pathway. These data provide more evidence for the immunomodulatory role of resveratrol and enrich our understanding of immune strategies to improve HIRI.
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24
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Dan Y, Radic N, Gay M, Fernández-Torras A, Arauz G, Vilaseca M, Aloy P, Canovas B, Nebreda A. Characterization of p38α signaling networks in cancer cells using quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023; 22:100527. [PMID: 36894123 PMCID: PMC10105487 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
p38α (encoded by MAPK14) is a protein kinase that regulates cellular responses to almost all types of environmental and intracellular stresses. Upon activation, p38α phosphorylates many substrates both in the cytoplasm and nucleus, allowing this pathway to regulate a wide variety of cellular processes. While the role of p38α in the stress response has been widely investigated, its implication in cell homeostasis is less understood. To investigate the signaling networks regulated by p38α in proliferating cancer cells, we performed quantitative proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses in breast cancer cells in which this pathway had been either genetically targeted or chemically inhibited. Our study identified with high confidence 35 proteins and 82 phosphoproteins (114 phosphosites) that are modulated by p38α, and highlighted the implication of various protein kinases, including MK2 and mTOR, in the p38α-regulated signaling networks. Moreover, functional analyses revealed an important contribution of p38α to the regulation of cell adhesion, DNA replication and RNA metabolism. Indeed, we provide experimental evidence supporting that p38α facilitates cancer cell adhesion, and showed that this p38α function is likely mediated by the modulation of the adaptor protein ArgBP2. Collectively, our results illustrate the complexity of the p38α regulated signaling networks, provide valuable information on p38α-dependent phosphorylation events in cancer cells, and document a mechanism by which p38α can regulate cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Dan
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nevenka Radic
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Gay
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrià Fernández-Torras
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gianluca Arauz
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Vilaseca
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patrick Aloy
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Begoña Canovas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - AngelR Nebreda
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain.
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25
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Verzijl CRC, van de Peppel IP, Eilers RE, Bloks VW, Wolters JC, Koehorst M, Kloosterhuis NJ, Havinga R, Jalving M, Struik D, Jonker JW. Pharmacological inhibition of MEK1/2 signaling disrupts bile acid metabolism through loss of Shp and enhanced Cyp7a1 expression. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 159:114270. [PMID: 36680812 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS-MAPK signaling pathway is one of the most frequently dysregulated pathways in human cancer. Small molecule inhibitors directed against this pathway have clinical activity in patients with various cancer types and can improve patient outcomes. However, the use of these drugs is associated with adverse effects, which can result in dose reduction or treatment interruption. A better molecular understanding of on-target, off-tumor effects may improve toxicity management. In the present study, we aimed to identify early initiating biological changes in the liver upon pharmacological inhibition of the RAS-MAPK signaling pathway. To this end, we tested the effect of MEK inhibitor PD0325901 using mice and human hepatocyte cell lines. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with either vehicle or PD0325901 for six days, followed by transcriptome analysis of the liver and phenotypic characterization. Pharmacological MEK inhibition altered the expression of 423 genes, of which 78 were upregulated and 345 were downregulated. We identified Shp, a transcriptional repressor, and Cyp7a1, the rate-limiting enzyme in converting cholesterol to bile acids, as the top differentially expressed genes. PD0325901 treatment also affected other genes involved in bile acid regulation, which was associated with changes in the composition of plasma bile acids and composition and total levels of fecal bile acids and elevated predictive biomarkers of early liver toxicity. In conclusion, short-term pharmacological MEK inhibition results in profound changes in bile acid metabolism, which may explain some of the clinical adverse effects of pharmacological inhibition of the RAS-MAPK pathway, including gastrointestinal complications and hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristy R C Verzijl
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ivo P van de Peppel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roos E Eilers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent W Bloks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Justina C Wolters
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn Koehorst
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Niels J Kloosterhuis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Havinga
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde Jalving
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dicky Struik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan W Jonker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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26
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CREB Is Activated by the SCF/KIT Axis in a Partially ERK-Dependent Manner and Orchestrates Survival and the Induction of Immediate Early Genes in Human Skin Mast Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044135. [PMID: 36835547 PMCID: PMC9966046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) functions as a prototypical stimulus-inducible transcription factor (TF) that initiates multiple cellular changes in response to activation. Despite pronounced expression in mast cells (MCs), CREB function is surprisingly ill-defined in the lineage. Skin MCs (skMCs) are critical effector cells in acute allergic and pseudo-allergic settings, and they contribute to various chronic dermatoses such as urticaria, atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, psoriasis, prurigo, rosacea and others. Using MCs of skin origin, we demonstrate herein that CREB is rapidly phosphorylated on serine-133 upon SCF-mediated KIT dimerization. Phosphorylation initiated by the SCF/KIT axis required intrinsic KIT kinase activity and partially depended on ERK1/2, but not on other kinases such as p38, JNK, PI3K or PKA. CREB was constitutively nuclear, where phosphorylation occurred. Interestingly, ERK did not translocate to the nucleus upon SCF activation of skMCs, but a fraction was present in the nucleus at baseline, and phosphorylation was prompted in the cytoplasm and nucleus in situ. CREB was required for SCF-facilitated survival, as demonstrated with the CREB-selective inhibitor 666-15. Knock-down of CREB by RNA interference duplicated CREB's anti-apoptotic function. On comparison with other modules (PI3K, p38 and MEK/ERK), CREB was equal or more potent at survival promotion. SCF efficiently induces immediate early genes (IEGs) in skMCs (FOS, JUNB and NR4A2). We now demonstrate that CREB is an essential partaker in this induction. Collectively, the ancient TF CREB is a crucial component of skMCs, where it operates as an effector of the SCF/KIT axis, orchestrating IEG induction and lifespan.
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27
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Bhargava A. Unraveling corticotropin-releasing factor family-orchestrated signaling and function in both sexes. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 123:27-65. [PMID: 37717988 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Stress responses to physical, psychological, environmental, or cellular stressors, has two arms: initiation and recovery. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is primarily responsible for regulating and/or initiating stress responses via, whereas urocortins (UCNs) are involved in the recovery response to stress via feedback inhibition. Stress is a loaded, polysemous word and is experienced in a myriad of ways. Some stressors are good for an individual, in fact essential, whereas other stressors are associated with bad outcomes. Perceived stress, like beauty, lies in the eye of the beholder, and hence the same stressor can result in individual-specific outcomes. In mammals, there are two main biological sexes with reproduction as primary function. Reproduction and nutrition can also be viewed as stressors; based on a body of work from my laboratory, we propose that the functions of all other organs have co-evolved to optimize and facilitate an individual's nutritional and reproductive functions. Hence, sex differences in physiologically relevant outcomes are innate and occur at all levels- molecular, endocrine, immune, and (patho)physiological. CRF and three UCNs are peptide hormones that mediate their physiological effects by binding to two known G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), CRF1 and CRF2. Expression and function of CRF family of hormones and their receptors is likely to be sexually dimorphic in all organs. In this chapter, based on the large body of work from others and my laboratory, an overview of the CRF family with special emphasis on sex-specific actions of peripherally expressed CRF2 receptor in health and disease is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Bhargava
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.
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28
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Sharma U, Kaur Rana M, Singh K, Jain A. LINC00324 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through sponging miR-493-5p via MAPK signaling pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 207:115372. [PMID: 36493845 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs have been demonstrated to promote proliferation and metastasis via regulating the miRNA/mRNA regulatory axis in various malignancies. Based on our preliminary study, we investigated the mechanism of LINC00324 through miR-493-5p/MAPK1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) pathogenesis. Herein, we confirmed that LINC00324 is significantly upregulated in ESCC primary cells and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line KYSE-70. Silencing of LINC00324 modulates cell proliferation markers, p21, p27, c-Myc, and Cyclin D1 and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers, slug, snail, ZEB1, vimentin, ZO-1, and E-cadherin protein expression in ESCC. Through bioinformatics and dual luciferase reporter assays, we identified miR-493-5p as the direct target molecule of LINC00324. We further revealed that LINC00324 negatively regulates miR-493-5p expression in ESCC. Moreover, our multiple gain-and loss-of-functional experiments proved that a combination of miR-493-5p and LINC00324 significantly rescued ESCC cell proliferation and metastatic phenotypes. Mechanistically, LINC00324 promotes ESCC pathogenesis by acting as a competing endogenous RNA and sponges miR-493-5p activity thereby activating MAPK1 during ESCC progression. We believe that targeting LINC00324 /miR-493-5p/MAPK1 axis may provide new therapeutic avenues for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uttam Sharma
- Central University of Punjab, Village-Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Manjit Kaur Rana
- Department of Pathology/Lab Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda 151001, Punjab, India
| | - Karuna Singh
- Department of Radiotherapy, Advanced Cancer Institute, Bathinda affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot 151203, Punjab, India
| | - Aklank Jain
- Central University of Punjab, Village-Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India.
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29
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On the Therapeutic Potential of ERK4 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010025. [PMID: 36612022 PMCID: PMC9817496 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
ERK3 and ERK4 define a distinct and understudied subfamily of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Little is known about the physiological roles of these atypical MAPKs and their association with human diseases. Interestingly, accumulating evidence points towards a role for ERK3 and ERK4 signaling in the initiation and progression of various types of cancer. Notably, a recent study reported that ERK4 is expressed in a subset of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines and that this expression is critical for AKT activation and for sustaining TNBC cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in mice. The authors also showed that depletion of ERK4 sensitizes TNBC cells to phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors. They concluded that ERK4 is a promising therapeutic target for TNBC and has potential for combination therapy with PI3K inhibitors. Here, we raise concerns about the cellular models and experimental approaches used in this study, which compromise the conclusions on the oncogenic role of ERK4 in TNBC.
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30
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Wang H, Tran TT, Duong KT, Nguyen T, Le UM. Options of Therapeutics and Novel Delivery Systems of Drugs for the Treatment of Melanoma. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:4487-4505. [PMID: 36305753 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most severe cancerous diseases. The cells employ multiple signaling pathways, such as ERK, HGF/c-MET, WNT, and COX-2 to cause the cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Treatment of melanoma, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy, is based on 4 major or 11 substages of the disease. Fourteen drugs, including dacarbazine, interferon α-2b, interleukin-12, ipilimumab, peginterferon α-2b, vemurafenib, trametinib, talimogene laherparepvec, cobimetinib, pembrolizumab, dabrafenib, binimetinib, encorafenib, and nivolumab, have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of melanoma. All of them are in conventional dosage forms of injection solutions, suspensions, oral tablets, or capsules. Major drawbacks of the treatment are side effects of the drugs and patients' incompliance to them. These are consequences of high doses and long-term treatments for the diseases. Currently more than 350 NCI-registered clinical trials are being carried out to treat advanced and/or metastatic melanoma using novel treatment methods, such as immune cell therapy, cancer vaccines, and new therapeutic targets. In addition, novel delivery systems using biomaterials of the approved drugs have been developed attempting to increase the drug delivery, targeting, stability, bioavailability, thus potentially reducing the toxicity and increasing the treatment effectiveness. Nanoparticles and liposomes have been emerging as advanced delivery systems which can improve drug stability and systemic circulation time. In this review, the most recent findings in the options for treatment and development of novel drug delivery systems for the treatment of melanoma are comprehensively discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Wang
- College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, California 95757, United States.,Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences College of Graduate Study, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, California 95757, United States
| | - Tuan T Tran
- College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, California 95757, United States
| | - Katherine T Duong
- CVS Pharmacy, 18872 Beach Boulevard, Huntington Beach, California 92648, United States
| | - Trieu Nguyen
- College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, California 95757, United States
| | - Uyen M Le
- College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, California 95757, United States
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31
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Tartaglia M, Aoki Y, Gelb BD. The molecular genetics of RASopathies: An update on novel disease genes and new disorders. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2022; 190:425-439. [PMID: 36394128 PMCID: PMC10100036 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.32012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Enhanced signaling through RAS and the mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade underlies the RASopathies, a family of clinically related disorders affecting development and growth. In RASopathies, increased RAS-MAPK signaling can result from the upregulated activity of various RAS GTPases, enhanced function of proteins positively controlling RAS function or favoring the efficient transmission of RAS signaling to downstream transducers, functional upregulation of RAS effectors belonging to the MAPK cascade, or inefficient signaling switch-off operated by feedback mechanisms acting at different levels. The massive effort in RASopathy gene discovery performed in the last 20 years has identified more than 20 genes implicated in these disorders. It has also facilitated the characterization of several molecular activating mechanisms that had remained unappreciated due to their minor impact in oncogenesis. Here, we provide an overview on the discoveries collected during the last 5 years that have delivered unexpected insights (e.g., Noonan syndrome as a recessive disease) and allowed to profile new RASopathies, novel disease genes and new molecular circuits contributing to the control of RAS-MAPK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Tartaglia
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Yoko Aoki
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Bruce D Gelb
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Pediatrics and Genetics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Bardwell AJ, Wu B, Sarin KY, Waterman ML, Atwood SX, Bardwell L. ERK2 MAP kinase regulates SUFU binding by multisite phosphorylation of GLI1. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:e202101353. [PMID: 35831023 PMCID: PMC9279676 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Crosstalk between the Hedgehog and MAPK signaling pathways occurs in several types of cancer and contributes to clinical resistance to Hedgehog pathway inhibitors. Here we show that MAP kinase-mediated phosphorylation weakens the binding of the GLI1 transcription factor to its negative regulator SUFU. ERK2 phosphorylates GLI1 on three evolutionarily conserved target sites (S102, S116, and S130) located near the high-affinity binding site for SUFU; these phosphorylations cooperate to weaken the affinity of GLI1-SUFU binding by over 25-fold. Phosphorylation of any one, or even any two, of the three sites does not result in the level of SUFU release seen when all three sites are phosphorylated. Tumor-derived mutations in R100 and S105, residues bordering S102, also diminish SUFU binding, collectively defining a novel evolutionarily conserved SUFU affinity-modulating region. In cultured mammalian cells, GLI1 variants containing phosphomimetic substitutions of S102, S116, and S130 displayed an increased ability to drive transcription. We conclude that multisite phosphorylation of GLI1 by ERK2 or other MAP kinases weakens GLI1-SUFU binding, thereby facilitating GLI1 activation and contributing to both physiological and pathological crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Jane Bardwell
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Beibei Wu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kavita Y Sarin
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marian L Waterman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Scott X Atwood
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lee Bardwell
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Houles T, Lavoie G, Nourreddine S, Cheung W, Vaillancourt-Jean É, Guérin CM, Bouttier M, Grondin B, Lin S, Saba-El-Leil MK, Angers S, Meloche S, Roux PP. CDK12 is hyperactivated and a synthetic-lethal target in BRAF-mutated melanoma. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6457. [PMID: 36309522 PMCID: PMC9617877 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34179-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and considered intrinsically resistant to chemotherapy. Nearly all melanomas harbor mutations that activate the RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which contributes to drug resistance via poorly described mechanisms. Herein we show that the RAS/MAPK pathway regulates the activity of cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12), which is a transcriptional CDK required for genomic stability. We find that melanoma cells harbor constitutively high CDK12 activity, and that its inhibition decreases the expression of long genes containing multiple exons, including many genes involved in DNA repair. Conversely, our results show that CDK12 inhibition promotes the expression of short genes with few exons, including many growth-promoting genes regulated by the AP-1 and NF-κB transcription factors. Inhibition of these pathways strongly synergize with CDK12 inhibitors to suppress melanoma growth, suggesting promising drug combinations for more effective melanoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Houles
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Geneviève Lavoie
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Sami Nourreddine
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada ,grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Present Address: Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Winnie Cheung
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Éric Vaillancourt-Jean
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Célia M. Guérin
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Mathieu Bouttier
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Benoit Grondin
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada ,grid.38678.320000 0001 2181 0211Present Address: Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Sichun Lin
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Marc K. Saba-El-Leil
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Stephane Angers
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Biochemistry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Sylvain Meloche
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada ,grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Philippe P. Roux
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montreal, 2950, Chemin de la Polytechnique, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada ,grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
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Morante M, Pandiella A, Crespo P, Herrero A. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and RAS-ERK Pathway-Targeted Drugs as Combined Therapy for the Treatment of Melanoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1562. [PMID: 36358912 PMCID: PMC9687808 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is a highly immunogenic tumor with very poor survival rates due to immune system escape-mechanisms. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) and the programmed death-1 (PD1) receptors, are being used to impede immune evasion. This immunotherapy entails an increment in the overall survival rates. However, melanoma cells respond with evasive molecular mechanisms. ERK cascade inhibitors are also used in metastatic melanoma treatment, with the RAF activity blockade being the main therapeutic approach for such purpose, and in combination with MEK inhibitors improves many parameters of clinical efficacy. Despite their efficacy in inhibiting ERK signaling, the rewiring of the melanoma cell-signaling results in disease relapse, constituting the reinstatement of ERK activation, which is a common cause of some resistance mechanisms. Recent studies revealed that the combination of RAS-ERK pathway inhibitors and ICI therapy present promising advantages for metastatic melanoma treatment. Here, we present a recompilation of the combined therapies clinically evaluated in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Morante
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Salamanca and IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Piero Crespo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Herrero
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (IBBTEC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28009 Madrid, Spain
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Casani-Galdon P, Garcia-Ojalvo J. Signaling oscillations: Molecular mechanisms and functional roles. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2022; 78:102130. [PMID: 36130445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2022.102130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Mounting evidence shows that oscillatory activity is widespread in cell signaling. Here, we review some of this recent evidence, focusing on both the molecular mechanisms that potentially underlie such dynamical behavior, and the potential advantages that signaling oscillations might have in cell function. The biological processes considered include cellular differentiation and tissue maintenance, intermittent responses in pluripotent stem cells, and collective cell migration during wound healing. With the aid of mathematical modeling, we review recent examples in which delayed negative feedback has been seen to act as a unifying principle that underpins this wide variety of phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Casani-Galdon
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Garcia-Ojalvo
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
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Pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione derivatives as RAF-MEK-ERK pathway signaling pathway blockers: Synthesis, cytotoxic activity, mechanistic investigation and structure-activity relationships. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 240:114579. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Asghar J, Latif L, Alexander SPH, Kendall DA. Development of a novel cell-based, In-Cell Western/ERK assay system for the high-throughput screening of agonists acting on the delta-opioid receptor. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:933356. [PMID: 36225576 PMCID: PMC9549385 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.933356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) are important signaling mediators in mammalian cells and, as a result, one of the major areas of research focus. The detection and quantification of ERK phosphorylation as an index of activation is normally conducted using immunoblotting, which does not allow high-throughput drug screening. Plate-based immunocytochemical assays provide a cheaper and relatively high-throughput alternative method for quantifying ERK phosphorylation. Here, we present optimization steps aimed to increase assay sensitivity and reduce variance and cost using the LI-COR In-Cell Western (I-CW) system in a recombinant CHO-K1 cell line, over-expressing the human delta-opioid receptor (hDOPr) as a model.Methods: Cells cultured in 96-well microassay plates were stimulated with three standard/selective DOPr agonists (SNC80, ADL5859, and DADLE) and a novel selective DOPr agonist (PN6047) to elicit a phospho-ERK response as an index of activation. A number of experimental conditions were investigated during the assay development.Key results: Preliminary experiments revealed a clearly visible edge-effect which significantly increased assay variance across the plate and which was reduced by pre-incubation for 30 min at room temperature. ERK phosphorylation was detectable as early as 1 min after agonist addition, with a distinct peak at 3–5 min. Optimization of the cell seeding densities showed that 25,000 cells per well have the lowest basal phospho-ERK response and an optimal agonist ERK1/2 signal. Pre-incubation with apyrase (an ATPase) did not reduce the basal or agonist responses. All agonists produced concentration-dependent increases in phospho-ERK activation, and pertussis toxin was able to attenuate these ERK responses. Naltrindole, which is a selective DOPr antagonist, was able to antagonize the DOPr-mediated ERK activation of the ligands.Conclusion: We have developed an optimization protocol and highlighted a number of considerations when performing this high-throughput fluorescence immunocytochemical (ICC) assay measuring ERK phosphorylation in the human DOPr. The optimized protocol was found to be a more conducive option for the screening of delta agonists. This provides a basis for additional assay development to investigate opioid pharmacology. This protocol should be widely applicable for measuring ERK phosphorylation in any cell line and investigating other protein targets in GPCR drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Asghar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Junaid Asghar,
| | - Liaque Latif
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen P. H. Alexander
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Kendall
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical School, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Signaling via extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK), a downstream effector, mediates numerous processes. For example, ERK1/2-RSK signaling is essential for estrogen homeostasis in the mammary gland and uterus to maintain physiological responsiveness. This review will focus on the coordination of ERK1/2-RSK2 and estrogen signaling through estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). The interrelationship and the feedback mechanisms between these pathways occurs at the level of transcription, translation, and posttranslational modification. Identifying how ERK1/2-RSK2 and estrogen signaling cooperate in homeostasis and disease may lead to novel therapeutic approaches in estrogen-dependent disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Lannigan
- Correspondence: Deborah A. Lannigan, PhD, Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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Rasl J, Grusanovic J, Klimova Z, Caslavsky J, Grousl T, Novotny J, Kolar M, Vomastek T. ERK2 signaling regulates cell-cell adhesion of epithelial cells and enhances growth factor-induced cell scattering. Cell Signal 2022; 99:110431. [PMID: 35933033 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110431] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The ERK signaling pathway, consisting of core protein kinases Raf, MEK and effector kinases ERK1/2, regulates various biological outcomes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, or cell migration. Signal transduction through the ERK signaling pathway is tightly controlled at all levels of the pathway. However, it is not well understood whether ERK pathway signaling can be modulated by the abundance of ERK pathway core kinases. In this study, we investigated the effects of low-level overexpression of the ERK2 isoform on the phenotype and scattering of cuboidal MDCK epithelial cells growing in discrete multicellular clusters. We show that ERK2 overexpression reduced the vertical size of lateral membranes that contain cell-cell adhesion complexes. Consequently, ERK2 overexpressing cells were unable to develop cuboidal shape, remained flat with increased spread area and intercellular adhesive contacts were present only on the basal side. Interestingly, ERK2 overexpression was not sufficient to increase phosphorylation of multiple downstream targets including transcription factors and induce global changes in gene expression, namely to increase the expression of pro-migratory transcription factor Fra1. However, ERK2 overexpression enhanced HGF/SF-induced cell scattering as these cells scattered more rapidly and to a greater extent than parental cells. Our results suggest that an increase in ERK2 expression primarily reduces cell-cell cohesion and that weakened intercellular adhesion synergizes with upstream signaling in the conversion of the multicellular epithelium into single migrating cells. This mechanism may be clinically relevant as the analysis of clinical data revealed that in one type of cancer, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, ERK2 overexpression correlates with a worse prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Rasl
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Josipa Grusanovic
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Klimova
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Caslavsky
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Grousl
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Novotny
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Informatics and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, 160 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kolar
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Vomastek
- Laboratory of Cell Signalling Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 142 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
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Avery TY, Köhler N, Zeiser R, Brummer T, Ruess DA. Onco-immunomodulatory properties of pharmacological interference with RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway hyperactivation. Front Oncol 2022; 12:931774. [PMID: 35965494 PMCID: PMC9363660 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.931774] [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: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperactivation of the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK cascade - a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway – has a well-known association with oncogenesis of leading tumor entities, including non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal carcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Increasing evidence shows that genetic alterations leading to RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway hyperactivation mediate contact- and soluble-dependent crosstalk between tumor, tumor microenvironment (TME) and the immune system resulting in immune escape mechanisms and establishment of a tumor-sustaining environment. Consequently, pharmacological interruption of this pathway not only leads to tumor-cell intrinsic disruptive effects but also modification of the TME and anti-tumor immunomodulation. At the same time, the importance of ERK signaling in immune cell physiology and potentiation of anti-tumor immune responses through ERK signaling inhibition within immune cell subsets has received growing appreciation. Specifically, a strong case was made for targeted MEK inhibition due to promising associated immune cell intrinsic modulatory effects. However, the successful transition of therapeutic agents interrupting RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK hyperactivation is still being hampered by significant limitations regarding durable efficacy, therapy resistance and toxicity. We here collate and summarize the multifaceted role of RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK signaling in physiology and oncoimmunology and outline the rationale and concepts for exploitation of immunomodulatory properties of RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK inhibition while accentuating the role of MEK inhibition in combinatorial and intermittent anticancer therapy. Furthermore, we point out the extensive scientific efforts dedicated to overcoming the challenges encountered during the clinical transition of various therapeutic agents in the search for the most effective and safe patient- and tumor-tailored treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Yul Avery
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Center of Surgery, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Thomas Yul Avery, ; Dietrich Alexander Ruess,
| | - Natalie Köhler
- Department of Medicine I - Medical Center, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- CIBSS - Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Robert Zeiser
- Department of Medicine I - Medical Center, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium Deutsches Konsortium Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tilman Brummer
- German Cancer Consortium Deutsches Konsortium Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research (IMMZ), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dietrich Alexander Ruess
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Center of Surgery, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium Deutsches Konsortium Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Thomas Yul Avery, ; Dietrich Alexander Ruess,
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MAP kinases are involved in RNA polymerase III regulation upon LPS treatment in macrophages. Gene 2022; 831:146548. [PMID: 35569767 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146548] [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: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are transcriptionally highly dynamic cell type, rapidly adapting to a changing environment to execute innate immune functions. Activation of macrophages with lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a major component of the outer membrane of most Gram-negative bacteria, induces rapid transcriptional changes and within a few hours transcription of several hundred genes is altered. Within these genes are tRNAs, which are synthesised by RNA Polymerase (Pol) III, and whose expression is rapidly upregulated in response to LPS. However, the mechanisms that govern Pol III activation are not fully elucidated. LPS engage the Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and induce various signalling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). MAPKs are serine/threonine kinases that catalyse the phosphorylation of transcription factors, protein kinases, and many other substrates including functional proteins, play a central role in mediating cellular responses to extracellular signals, including inflammatory cues. Here we show that ERK and p38 MAP kinases contribute to the activation of Pol III in macrophages stimulated with LPS. We also demonstrate that MAP kinases effector MSK1/2 kinases are involved in tRNA upregulation. Our data show that ERK, p38, and MSK kinases are required for upregulation of Pol III activity in macrophages stimulated by LPS. The possible modes of their action are discussed.
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Wang H, Chi L, Yu F, Dai H, Si X, Gao C, Wang Z, Liu L, Zheng J, Ke Y, Liu H, Zhang Q. The overview of Mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK)-based dual inhibitor in the treatment of cancers. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 70:116922. [PMID: 35849914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116922] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (MEK1/2) are the critical components of the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (MAPK/ERK1/2) signaling pathway which is one of the well-characterized kinase cascades regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, growth, metabolism, survival and mobility both in normal and cancer cells. The aberrant activation of MAPK/ERK1/2 pathway is a hallmark of numerous human cancers, therefore targeting the components of this pathway to inhibit its dysregulation is a promising strategy for cancer treatment. Enormous efforts have been done in the development of MEK1/2 inhibitors and encouraging advancements have been made, including four inhibitors approved for clinical use. However, due to the multifactorial property of cancer and rapidly arising drug resistance, the clinical efficacy of these MEK1/2 inhibitors as monotherapy are far from ideal. Several alternative strategies have been developed to improve the limited clinical efficacy, including the dual inhibitor which is a single drug molecule able to simultaneously inhibit two targets. In this review, we first introduced the activation and function of the MAPK/ERK1/2 components and discussed the advantages of MEK1/2-based dual inhibitors compared with the single inhibitors and combination therapy in the treatment of cancers. Then, we overviewed the MEK1/2-based dual inhibitors for the treatment of cancers and highlighted the theoretical basis of concurrent inhibition of MEK1/2 and other targets for development of these dual inhibitors. Besides, the status and results of these dual inhibitors in both preclinical and clinical studies were also the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Lingling Chi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Fuqiang Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hongling Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaojie Si
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Chao Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhengjie Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Limin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jiaxin Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yu Ke
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Hongmin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Qiurong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Mi J, Jiang C, Wang Q, Li X, Zhao M, Geng Z, Song X, Li J, Zuo L, Ge S, Zhang Z, Wen H, Wang Z, Su F. ANKFN1 plays both protumorigenic and metastatic roles in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2022; 41:3680-3693. [PMID: 35725908 PMCID: PMC9287179 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02380-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ankyrin repeat and fibronectin type III domain containing 1 (ANKFN1) is reported to be involved in human height and developmental abnormalities, but the expression profile and molecular function of ANKFN1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance and biological function of ANKFN1 in HCC and investigate whether ANKFN1 can be used for differential diagnosis in HCC. Here, we showed that ANKFN1 was upregulated in 126 tumor tissues compared with adjacent nontumorous tissues in HCC patients. The upregulation of ANKFN1 in HCC was associated with cirrhosis, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and poor prognosis. Moreover, silencing ANKFN1 expression suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis in vitro and subcutaneous tumorigenesis in vivo. However, ANKFN1 overexpression promoted HCC proliferation and metastasis in an orthotopic liver transplantation model and attenuated the above biological effects in HCC cells. ANKFN1 significantly affected HCC cell proliferation by inducing G1/S transition and cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that ANKFN1 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via activation of the cyclin D1/Cdk4/Cdk6 pathway by stimulating the MEK1/2-ERK1/2 pathway. Moreover, ANKFN1-induced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were partially reversed by ERK1/2 inhibitors. Taken together, our results indicate that ANKFN1 promotes HCC cell proliferation and metastasis by activating the MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Our work also suggests that ANKFN1 is a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Yue Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Mi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Chenchen Jiang
- Cancer Neurobiology Group, School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Qiang Wang
- Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Xinwei Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Menglin Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Zhijun Geng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Xue Song
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Lugen Zuo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Sitang Ge
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Zining Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Hexin Wen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China
| | - Zishu Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China.
| | - Fang Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233004, Anhui, PR China.
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Pan X, Pei J, Wang A, Shuai W, Feng L, Bu F, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Wang G, Ouyang L. Development of small molecule extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) inhibitors for cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2171-2192. [PMID: 35646548 PMCID: PMC9136582 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathway is widely activated by a variety of extracellular stimuli, and its dysregulation is associated with the proliferation, invasion, and migration of cancer cells. ERK1/2 is located at the distal end of this pathway and rarely undergoes mutations, making it an attractive target for anticancer drug development. Currently, an increasing number of ERK1/2 inhibitors have been designed and synthesized for antitumor therapy, among which representative compounds have entered clinical trials. When ERK1/2 signal transduction is eliminated, ERK5 may provide a bypass route to rescue proliferation, and weaken the potency of ERK1/2 inhibitors. Therefore, drug research targeting ERK5 or based on the compensatory mechanism of ERK5 for ERK1/2 opens up a new way for oncotherapy. This review provides an overview of the physiological and biological functions of ERKs, focuses on the structure-activity relationships of small molecule inhibitors targeting ERKs, with a view to providing guidance for future drug design and optimization, and discusses the potential therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junping Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Faqian Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 28 85503817.
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 28 85503817.
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 28 85503817.
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Aklilu S, Krakowiak M, Frempong A, Wilson K, Powers C, Fantz D. Nfya-1 functions as a substrate of ERK-MAP kinase during Caenorhabditis elegans vulval development. Cells Dev 2022; 169:203757. [PMID: 34838796 PMCID: PMC8934265 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2021.203757] [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: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A common bridge between a linear cytoplasmic signal and broad nuclear regulation is the family of MAP kinases which can translocate to the nucleus upon activation by the cytoplasmic signal. One pathway which functions to activate the ERK family of MAP kinases is the Ras signaling pathway which functions at multiple times and locations during the development of Caenorhabditis elegans including the development of the excretory cell, germ cells, male tail, and vulva. It has been most extensively characterized during the development of the vulva which is formed from the vulval precursor cells (VPCs), a set of six equivalent, epithelial cells designated P3.p - P8.p. Although LIN-1 appears to be a primary target of ERK MAP kinase during vulval development, it is likely that other developmentally important molecules are also regulated by ERK-mediated phosphorylation. The identification of physiological substrates of MAP kinases has been aided by the identification of docking site domains in substrate proteins that contribute to high-affinity interactions with kinases. Our laboratory has identified the C. elegans protein, T08D10.1/NFYA-1, as a potential ERK MAP kinase substrate in this manner, and we have initiated a characterization of its role during Ras-mediated development. T08D10.1 possesses significant homology to the CCAAT-box DNA-binding domain of the vertebrate nuclear transcription factor-Y, alpha (NF-YA) family of proteins. NF-Y proteins act as part of a complex to regulate the transcription of a large number of genes, in particular, genes that function in the G1/S cell cycle transition. T08D10.1/NFYA-1 is predicted to code for a protein containing multiple potential phosphorylation sites for ERK MAP kinase and a D-domain docking site. We demonstrate through biochemical analysis of purified NFYA-1 protein that it can act in vitro as a high affinity substrate for activated ERK MAP kinase. Growth factor activation of the Ras pathway in a tissue culture system has negligible effect on the protein's transactivation potential, however, the DNA-binding activity of the protein is reduced after treatment with activated ERK-MAP kinase. We demonstrate through mutant analysis that nfya-1 acts to inhibit vulval development and functions downstream or in parallel to let-60/ras. Both the NF-Y complex and the Ras signaling pathway play a fundamental role in cell proliferation and oncogenesis and the connection between the two is an important insight into the mechanisms of cell fate specification and cellular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Segen Aklilu
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA
| | - Michelle Krakowiak
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA
| | - Abena Frempong
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA
| | - Katherine Wilson
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA
| | - Christy Powers
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA
| | - Douglas Fantz
- Agnes Scott College, Department of Chemistry, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030, USA.
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Harnessing RKIP to Combat Heart Disease and Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040867. [PMID: 35205615 PMCID: PMC8870036 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer and heart disease are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. These diseases have common risk factors, common molecular signaling pathways that are central to their pathogenesis, and even some disease phenotypes that are interdependent. Thus, a detailed understanding of common regulators is critical for the development of new and synergistic therapeutic strategies. The Raf kinase inhibitory protein (RKIP) is a regulator of the cellular kinome that functions to maintain cellular robustness and prevent the progression of diseases including heart disease and cancer. Two of the key signaling pathways controlled by RKIP are the β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) signaling to protein kinase A (PKA), particularly in the heart, and the MAP kinase cascade Raf/MEK/ERK1/2 that regulates multiple diseases. The goal of this review is to discuss how we can leverage RKIP to suppress cancer without incurring deleterious effects on the heart. Specifically, we discuss: (1) How RKIP functions to either suppress or activate βAR (PKA) and ERK1/2 signaling; (2) How we can prevent cancer-promoting kinase signaling while at the same time avoiding cardiotoxicity.
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Hikita T, Uehara R, Itoh RE, Mitani F, Miyata M, Yoshida T, Yamaguchi R, Oneyama C. MEK/ERK-mediated oncogenic signals promote secretion of extracellular vesicles by controlling lysosome function. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:1264-1276. [PMID: 35108425 PMCID: PMC8990735 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells secrete large amounts of extracellular vesicles (EVs) originating from multivesicular bodies (MVBs). Mature MVBs fuse either with the plasma membrane for release as EVs often referred as to exosomes or with lysosomes for degradation. However, the mechanisms regulating MVB fate remain unknown. Here, we investigated the regulators of MVB fate by analyzing the effects of signaling inhibitors on EV secretion from cancer cells engineered to secrete luciferase-labeled EVs. Inhibition of the oncogenic MEK/ERK pathway suppressed EV release and activated lysosome formation. MEK/ERK-mediated lysosomal inactivation impaired MVB degradation, resulting in increased EV secretion from cancer cells. Moreover, MEK/ERK inhibition prevented c-MYC expression and induced the nuclear translocation of MiT/TFE transcription factors, thereby promoting the activation of lysosome-related genes, including the gene encoding a subunit of vacuolar-type H+ -ATPase, which is responsible for lysosomal acidification and function. Furthermore, c-MYC upregulation was associated with lysosomal genes downregulation in MEK/ERK-activated renal cancer cells/tissues. These findings suggest that the MEK/ERK/c-MYC pathway controls MVB fate and promotes EV production in human cancers by inactivating lysosomal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Hikita
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ryo Uehara
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Reina E Itoh
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Fumie Mitani
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Oncology, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Mamiko Miyata
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takuya Yoshida
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Rui Yamaguchi
- Division of Cancer Systems Biology, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Cancer Informatics, Nagoya University, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Chitose Oneyama
- Division of Cancer Cell Regulation, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Oncology, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Target and Drug Discovery, Nagoya University, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Japan Science and Technology Agency, PRESTO, Nagoya, Japan
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48
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Diehl JN, Hibshman PS, Ozkan-Dagliyan I, Goodwin CM, Howard SV, Cox AD, Der CJ. Targeting the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade for the treatment of KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 153:101-130. [PMID: 35101228 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Mutational activation of the KRAS oncogene is found in ~95% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the major form of pancreatic cancer. With substantial experimental evidence that continued aberrant KRAS function is essential for the maintenance of PDAC tumorigenic growth, the National Cancer Institute has identified the development of effective anti-KRAS therapies as one of four major initiatives for pancreatic cancer research. The recent clinical success in the development of an anti-KRAS therapy targeting one specific KRAS mutant (G12C) supports the significant potential impact of anti-KRAS therapies. However, KRASG12C mutations comprise only 2% of KRAS mutations in PDAC. Thus, there remains a dire need for additional therapeutic approaches for targeting the majority of KRAS-mutant PDAC. Among the different directions currently being pursued for anti-KRAS drug development, one of the most promising involves inhibitors of the key KRAS effector pathway, the three-tiered RAF-MEK-ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. We address the promises and challenges of targeting ERK MAPK signaling as an anti-KRAS therapy for PDAC. In particular, we also summarize the key role of the MYC transcription factor and oncoprotein in supporting ERK-dependent growth of KRAS-mutant PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Nathaniel Diehl
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Priya S Hibshman
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Irem Ozkan-Dagliyan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Craig M Goodwin
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sarah V Howard
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Adrienne D Cox
- Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Channing J Der
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
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49
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Identification and validation of new ERK substrates by phosphoproteomic technologies including Phos-tag SDS-PAGE. J Proteomics 2022; 258:104543. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2022.104543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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50
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Abstract
Activating mutations in RAS genes are the most common genetic driver of human cancers. Yet, drugging this small GTPase has proven extremely challenging and therapeutic strategies targeting these recurrent alterations have long had limited success. To circumvent this difficulty, research has focused on the molecular dissection of the RAS pathway to gain a more-precise mechanistic understanding of its regulation, with the hope to identify new pharmacological approaches. Here, we review the current knowledge on the (dys)regulation of the RAS pathway, using melanoma as a paradigm. We first present a map of the main proteins involved in the RAS pathway, highlighting recent insights into their molecular roles and diverse mechanisms of regulation. We then overview genetic data pertaining to RAS pathway alterations in melanoma, along with insight into other cancers, that inform the biological function of members of the pathway. Finally, we describe the clinical implications of RAS pathway dysregulation in melanoma, discuss past and current approaches aimed at drugging the RAS pathway, and outline future opportunities for therapeutic development. Summary: This Review describes the molecular regulation of the RAS pathway, presents the clinical consequences of its pathological activation in human cancer, and highlights recent advances towards its therapeutic inhibition, using melanoma as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Al Mahi
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, INSERM U1052 CNRS UMR5286, Tumor Escape, Resistance and Immunity Department, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Julien Ablain
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, INSERM U1052 CNRS UMR5286, Tumor Escape, Resistance and Immunity Department, 69008 Lyon, France
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