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Wang ZQ, Zhang ZC, Wu YY, Pi YN, Lou SH, Liu TB, Lou G, Yang C. Bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins: biological functions, diseases, and targeted therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:420. [PMID: 37926722 PMCID: PMC10625992 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01647-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BET proteins, which influence gene expression and contribute to the development of cancer, are epigenetic interpreters. Thus, BET inhibitors represent a novel form of epigenetic anticancer treatment. Although preliminary clinical trials have shown the anticancer potential of BET inhibitors, it appears that these drugs have limited effectiveness when used alone. Therefore, given the limited monotherapeutic activity of BET inhibitors, their use in combination with other drugs warrants attention, including the meaningful variations in pharmacodynamic activity among chosen drug combinations. In this paper, we review the function of BET proteins, the preclinical justification for BET protein targeting in cancer, recent advances in small-molecule BET inhibitors, and preliminary clinical trial findings. We elucidate BET inhibitor resistance mechanisms, shed light on the associated adverse events, investigate the potential of combining these inhibitors with diverse therapeutic agents, present a comprehensive compilation of synergistic treatments involving BET inhibitors, and provide an outlook on their future prospects as potent antitumor agents. We conclude by suggesting that combining BET inhibitors with other anticancer drugs and innovative next-generation agents holds great potential for advancing the effective targeting of BET proteins as a promising anticancer strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Qiang Wang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Zhao-Cong Zhang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Yu-Yang Wu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ya-Nan Pi
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Sheng-Han Lou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Tian-Bo Liu
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Ge Lou
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China.
| | - Chang Yang
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, China.
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2
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Quintela M, James DW, Pociute A, Powell L, Edwards K, Coombes Z, Garcia J, Garton N, Das N, Lutchman-Singh K, Margarit L, Beynon AL, Rioja I, Prinjha RK, Harker NR, Gonzalez D, Conlan RS, Francis LW. Bromodomain inhibitor i-BET858 triggers a unique transcriptional response coupled to enhanced DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in high-grade ovarian carcinoma cells. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:63. [PMID: 37060086 PMCID: PMC10105475 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01477-x] [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: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian cancer has a specific unmet clinical need, with a persistently poor 5-year survival rate observed in women with advanced stage disease warranting continued efforts to develop new treatment options. The amplification of BRD4 in a significant subset of high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSC) has led to the development of BET inhibitors (BETi) as promising antitumour agents that have subsequently been evaluated in phase I/II clinical trials. Here, we describe the molecular effects and ex vivo preclinical activities of i-BET858, a bivalent pan-BET inhibitor with proven in vivo BRD inhibitory activity. RESULTS i-BET858 demonstrates enhanced cytotoxic activity compared with earlier generation BETis both in cell lines and primary cells derived from clinical samples of HGSC. At molecular level, i-BET858 triggered a bipartite transcriptional response, comprised of a 'core' network of genes commonly associated with BET inhibition in solid tumours, together with a unique i-BET858 gene signature. Mechanistically, i-BET858 elicited enhanced DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death compared to its predecessor i-BET151. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our ex vivo and in vitro studies indicate that i-BET858 represents an optimal candidate to pursue further clinical validation for the treatment of HGSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Quintela
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - David W James
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Agne Pociute
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Lydia Powell
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Kadie Edwards
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Zoe Coombes
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Jetzabel Garcia
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Neil Garton
- Immunology Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Nagindra Das
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, SA12 7BR, UK
| | | | - Lavinia Margarit
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
| | | | - Inmaculada Rioja
- Immunology Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Rab K Prinjha
- Immunology Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Nicola R Harker
- Immunology Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Deyarina Gonzalez
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - R Steven Conlan
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Lewis W Francis
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.
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3
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Sahafnejad Z, Ramazi S, Allahverdi A. An Update of Epigenetic Drugs for the Treatment of Cancers and Brain Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040873. [PMID: 37107631 PMCID: PMC10137918 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics has long been recognized as a significant field in biology and is defined as the investigation of any alteration in gene expression patterns that is not attributed to changes in the DNA sequences. Epigenetic marks, including histone modifications, non-coding RNAs, and DNA methylation, play crucial roles in gene regulation. Numerous studies in humans have been carried out on single-nucleotide resolution of DNA methylation, the CpG island, new histone modifications, and genome-wide nucleosome positioning. These studies indicate that epigenetic mutations and aberrant placement of these epigenetic marks play a critical role in causing the disease. Consequently, significant development has occurred in biomedical research in identifying epigenetic mechanisms, their interactions, and changes in health and disease conditions. The purpose of this review article is to provide comprehensive information about the different types of diseases caused by alterations in epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation or methylation. Recent studies reported that epigenetics could influence the evolution of human cancer via aberrant methylation of gene promoter regions, which is associated with reduced gene function. Furthermore, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in the DNA methylation process as well as histone acetyltransferases (HATs)/histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone methyltransferases (HMTs)/demethylases (HDMs) in histone modifications play important roles both in the catalysis and inhibition of target gene transcription and in many other DNA processes such as repair, replication, and recombination. Dysfunction in these enzymes leads to epigenetic disorders and, as a result, various diseases such as cancers and brain diseases. Consequently, the knowledge of how to modify aberrant DNA methylation as well as aberrant histone acetylation or methylation via inhibitors by using epigenetic drugs can be a suitable therapeutic approach for a number of diseases. Using the synergistic effects of DNA methylation and histone modification inhibitors, it is hoped that many epigenetic defects will be treated in the future. Numerous studies have demonstrated a link between epigenetic marks and their effects on brain and cancer diseases. Designing appropriate drugs could provide novel strategies for the management of these diseases in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sahafnejad
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
| | - Shahin Ramazi
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
| | - Abdollah Allahverdi
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
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Jie Y, Yang X, Chen W. Pulsatilla Decoction Combined with 5-Fluorouracil Triggers Immunogenic Cell Death in Colorectal Cancer Cells. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2022; 37:945-954. [PMID: 34042519 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2020.4369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Our research is designed to explore the role of 5-FU and Pulsatilla decoction (PD) through modulation of Immunogenic cell death (ICD) for the co-treatment of Colorectal cancer (CRC). Materials and Methods: Cell viability was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazol-3-ium bromide (MTT) assays. Cell apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of STAT3 and expression of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xl were measured by Western blot assays. The levels of ATP and HMGB1 in the supernatants of the culture medium were analyzed by ATP assays and the HMGB1 enzyme linked immunosorbent assay kit. The cell surface levels of CRT were measured by immunofluorescence assays. The tumor growth was analyzed in mice. Results: PD increased 5-FU-induced ICD in CRC cells, as demonstrated by the extracellular levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and the surface levels of calreticulin (CRT). Our mechanism study showed that PD promoted 5-FU-induced ICD by inactivating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Furthermore, the co-treatment of 5-FU and PD further promoted 5-FU-induced CRT expression and T cell infiltration in vivo. Tumorigenicity analysis revealed that 5-FU combined with PD notably reduced tumor growth. Conclusion: This study indicated that PD enhances 5-FU-induced ICD and anti-tumor effect in CRC by inactivating STAT3. The combined application of 5-FU with PD may improve the anti-tumor activity of 5-FU in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanghua Jie
- Radiotherapy Center, Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Xiaobei Yang
- Department of Anorectal, Urumqi City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Urumqi, China
| | - Weidong Chen
- Department of Anorectal, Hospital (T.C.M) Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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5
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van der Noord VE, van de Water B, Le Dévédec SE. Targeting the Heterogeneous Genomic Landscape in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer through Inhibitors of the Transcriptional Machinery. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4353. [PMID: 36139513 PMCID: PMC9496798 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer defined by lack of the estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Although TNBC tumors contain a wide variety of oncogenic mutations and copy number alterations, the direct targeting of these alterations has failed to substantially improve therapeutic efficacy. This efficacy is strongly limited by interpatient and intratumor heterogeneity, and thereby a lack in uniformity of targetable drivers. Most of these genetic abnormalities eventually drive specific transcriptional programs, which may be a general underlying vulnerability. Currently, there are multiple selective inhibitors, which target the transcriptional machinery through transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) 7, 8, 9, 12 and 13 and bromodomain extra-terminal motif (BET) proteins, including BRD4. In this review, we discuss how inhibitors of the transcriptional machinery can effectively target genetic abnormalities in TNBC, and how these abnormalities can influence sensitivity to these inhibitors. These inhibitors target the genomic landscape in TNBC by specifically suppressing MYC-driven transcription, inducing further DNA damage, improving anti-cancer immunity, and preventing drug resistance against MAPK and PI3K-targeted therapies. Because the transcriptional machinery enables transcription and propagation of multiple cancer drivers, it may be a promising target for (combination) treatment, especially of heterogeneous malignancies, including TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sylvia E. Le Dévédec
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
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6
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Yang J, Song C, Zhan X. The role of protein acetylation in carcinogenesis and targeted drug discovery. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:972312. [PMID: 36171897 PMCID: PMC9510633 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.972312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein acetylation is a reversible post-translational modification, and is involved in many biological processes in cells, such as transcriptional regulation, DNA damage repair, and energy metabolism, which is an important molecular event and is associated with a wide range of diseases such as cancers. Protein acetylation is dynamically regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in homeostasis. The abnormal acetylation level might lead to the occurrence and deterioration of a cancer, and is closely related to various pathophysiological characteristics of a cancer, such as malignant phenotypes, and promotes cancer cells to adapt to tumor microenvironment. Therapeutic modalities targeting protein acetylation are a potential therapeutic strategy. This article discussed the roles of protein acetylation in tumor pathology and therapeutic drugs targeting protein acetylation, which offers the contributions of protein acetylation in clarification of carcinogenesis, and discovery of therapeutic drugs for cancers, and lays the foundation for precision medicine in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Yang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Cong Song
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xianquan Zhan
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Xianquan Zhan,
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7
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Drumond-Bock AL, Bieniasz M. The role of distinct BRD4 isoforms and their contribution to high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma pathogenesis. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:145. [PMID: 34758842 PMCID: PMC8579545 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01424-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the most aggressive type of ovarian cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages. Molecularly, HGSOC shows high degree of genomic instability associated with large number of genetic alterations. BRD4 is the 4th most amplified gene in HGSOC, which correlates with poor patients' prognosis. BRD4 is constitutively expressed and generates two proteins, BRD4 long (BRD4-L) and BRD4 short (BRD4-S). Both isoforms contain bromodomains that bind to lysine-acetylated histones. Amongst other functions, BRD4 participates in chromatin organization, acetylation of histones, transcriptional control and DNA damage repair. In cancer patients with amplified BRD4, the increased activity of BRD4 is associated with higher expression of oncogenes, such as MYC, NOTCH3 and NRG1. BRD4-driven oncogenes promote increased tumor cells proliferation, genetic instability, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis and chemoresistance. Ablation of BRD4 activity can be successfully achieved with bromodomain inhibitors (BETi) and degraders, and it has been applied in pre-clinical and clinical settings. Inhibition of BRD4 function has an effective anti-cancer effect, reducing tumor growth whether ablated by single agents or in combination with other drugs. When combined with standard chemotherapy, BETi are capable of sensitizing highly resistant ovarian cancer cell lines to platinum drugs. Despite the evidence that BRD4 amplification in ovarian cancer contributes to poor patient prognosis, little is known about the specific mechanisms by which BRD4 drives tumor progression. In addition, newly emerging data revealed that BRD4 isoforms exhibit contradicting functions in cancer. Therefore, it is paramount to expand studies elucidating distinct roles of BRD4-L and BRD4-S in HGSOC, which has important implications on development of therapeutic approaches targeting BRD4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Drumond-Bock
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Magdalena Bieniasz
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
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8
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Lai J, Liu Z, Zhao Y, Ma C, Huang H. Anticancer Effects of I-BET151, an Inhibitor of Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Domain Proteins. Front Oncol 2021; 11:716830. [PMID: 34540687 PMCID: PMC8443787 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.716830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
I-BET151 is an inhibitor of bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins that selectively inhibits BET family members (BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and BRDT). Over the past ten years, many studies have demonstrated the potential of I-BET151 in cancer treatment. Specifically, I-BET151 causes cell cycle arrest and inhibits tumor cell proliferation in some hematological malignancies and solid tumors, such as breast cancer, glioma, melanoma, neuroblastoma, and ovarian cancer. The anticancer activity of I-BET151 is related to its effects on NF-κB, Notch, and Hedgehog signal transduction pathway, tumor microenvironment (TME) and telomere elongation. Remarkably, the combination of I-BET151 with select anticancer drugs can partially alleviate the occurrence of drug resistance in chemotherapy. Especially, the combination of forskolin, ISX9, CHIR99021, I-BET151 and DAPT allows GBM cells to be reprogrammed into neurons, and this process does not experience an intermediate pluripotent state. The research on the anticancer mechanism of I-BET151 will lead to new treatment strategies for clinical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Lai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ziqiang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yulei Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chengyuan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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9
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Vershinin Z, Feldman M, Werner T, Weil LE, Kublanovsky M, Abaev-Schneiderman E, Sklarz M, Lam EYN, Alasad K, Picaud S, Rotblat B, McAdam RA, Chalifa-Caspi V, Bantscheff M, Chapman T, Lewis HD, Filippakopoulos P, Dawson MA, Grandi P, Prinjha RK, Levy D. BRD4 methylation by the methyltransferase SETD6 regulates selective transcription to control mRNA translation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/22/eabf5374. [PMID: 34039605 PMCID: PMC8153730 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf5374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The transcriptional coactivator BRD4 has a fundamental role in transcription regulation and thus became a promising epigenetic therapeutic candidate to target diverse pathologies. However, the regulation of BRD4 by posttranslational modifications has been largely unexplored. Here, we show that BRD4 is methylated on chromatin at lysine-99 by the protein lysine methyltransferase SETD6. BRD4 methylation negatively regulates the expression of genes that are involved in translation and inhibits total mRNA translation in cells. Mechanistically, we provide evidence that supports a model where BRD4 methylation by SETD6 does not have a direct role in the association with acetylated histone H4 at chromatin. However, this methylation specifically determines the recruitment of the transcription factor E2F1 to selected target genes that are involved in mRNA translation. Together, our findings reveal a previously unknown molecular mechanism for BRD4 methylation-dependent gene-specific targeting, which may serve as a new direction for the development of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zlata Vershinin
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Michal Feldman
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Thilo Werner
- GSK Cellzome GmbH, Functional Genomics R&D, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lital Estrella Weil
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Margarita Kublanovsky
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Elina Abaev-Schneiderman
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Menachem Sklarz
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Enid Y N Lam
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Khawla Alasad
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Sarah Picaud
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Barak Rotblat
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Ruth A McAdam
- GSK, Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Vered Chalifa-Caspi
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Marcus Bantscheff
- GSK Cellzome GmbH, Functional Genomics R&D, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Trevor Chapman
- GSK, Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Huw D Lewis
- GSK, Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Panagis Filippakopoulos
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Mark A Dawson
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paola Grandi
- GSK Cellzome GmbH, Functional Genomics R&D, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rab K Prinjha
- GSK, Medicines Research Centre, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Dan Levy
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel.
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Be'er-Sheva 84105, Israel
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10
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Ramarao-Milne P, Kondrashova O, Barry S, Hooper JD, Lee JS, Waddell N. Histone Modifying Enzymes in Gynaecological Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040816. [PMID: 33669182 PMCID: PMC7919659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epigenetics is a process that allows genetic control, without the involvement of sequence changes to DNA or genes. In cancer, epigenetics is a key event in tumour development that can alter the expression of cancer driver genes and result in genomic instability. Due to the critical role of epigenetics in malignant transformation, therapies that target these processes have been developed to treat cancer. Here, we provide a summary of the epigenetic changes that have been described in a variety of gynaecological cancers. We then highlight how these changes are being targeted in preclinical models and clinical trials for gynaecological cancers. Abstract Genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to the development of cancer. Epigenetic dysregulation is common in gynaecological cancers and includes altered methylation at CpG islands in gene promoter regions, global demethylation that leads to genome instability and histone modifications. Histones are a major determinant of chromosomal conformation and stability, and unlike DNA methylation, which is generally associated with gene silencing, are amenable to post-translational modifications that induce facultative chromatin regions, or condensed transcriptionally silent regions that decondense resulting in global alteration of gene expression. In comparison, other components, crucial to the manipulation of chromatin dynamics, such as histone modifying enzymes, are not as well-studied. Inhibitors targeting DNA modifying enzymes, particularly histone modifying enzymes represent a potential cancer treatment. Due to the ability of epigenetic therapies to target multiple pathways simultaneously, tumours with complex mutational landscapes affected by multiple driver mutations may be most amenable to this type of inhibitor. Interrogation of the actionable landscape of different gynaecological cancer types has revealed that some patients have biomarkers which indicate potential sensitivity to epigenetic inhibitors. In this review we describe the role of epigenetics in gynaecological cancers and highlight how it may exploited for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Ramarao-Milne
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Olga Kondrashova
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
| | - Sinead Barry
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Mater Hospital Brisbane, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia;
| | - John D. Hooper
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia;
| | - Jason S. Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- Epigenetics and Disease Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-38453951
| | - Nicola Waddell
- Medical Genomics Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (P.R.-M.); (O.K.); (N.W.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins are epigenetic readers that bind to acetylated lysines of histones and regulate gene transcription. BET protein family members mediate the expression of various oncogenic drivers in ovarian cancer, such as the MYC and Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) genes. BRD4, the most thoroughly studied member of the BET family, is amplified in a significant subset of high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSC) of the ovary. It has been reported that BET inhibitors can attenuate the proliferation and dissemination of ovarian cancer cells by inhibiting oncogenic pathways, such as the FOXM1 and JAK/STAT pathways. BET inhibition can re-sensitize resistant ovarian cancer cells to already approved anticancer agents, including cisplatin and PARP inhibitors. This synergism was also confirmed in vivo in animal models. These and other preclinical results provide a promising basis for the application of BET inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment. Currently, Phase I/II clinical trials explore the safety and efficacy profiles of BET inhibitors in various solid tumors, including ovarian tumors. Here, we review current knowledge on the molecular effects and preclinical activities of BET inhibitors in ovarian tumors. CONCLUSIONS BET proteins have emerged as new druggable targets for ovarian cancer. BET inhibitors may enhance antitumor activity when co-administered with conventional treatment regimens. Results from ongoing Phase I/II studies are anticipated to confirm this notion.
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Kielbik M, Szulc-Kielbik I, Klink M. Calreticulin-Multifunctional Chaperone in Immunogenic Cell Death: Potential Significance as a Prognostic Biomarker in Ovarian Cancer Patients. Cells 2021; 10:130. [PMID: 33440842 PMCID: PMC7827772 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a type of death, which has the hallmarks of necroptosis and apoptosis, and is best characterized in malignant diseases. Chemotherapeutics, radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy induce intracellular stress response pathways in tumor cells, leading to a secretion of various factors belonging to a family of damage-associated molecular patterns molecules, capable of inducing the adaptive immune response. One of them is calreticulin (CRT), an endoplasmic reticulum-associated chaperone. Its presence on the surface of dying tumor cells serves as an "eat me" signal for antigen presenting cells (APC). Engulfment of tumor cells by APCs results in the presentation of tumor's antigens to cytotoxic T-cells and production of cytokines/chemokines, which activate immune cells responsible for tumor cells killing. Thus, the development of ICD and the expression of CRT can help standard therapy to eradicate tumor cells. Here, we review the physiological functions of CRT and its involvement in the ICD appearance in malignant disease. Moreover, we also focus on the ability of various anti-cancer drugs to induce expression of surface CRT on ovarian cancer cells. The second aim of this work is to discuss and summarize the prognostic/predictive value of CRT in ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Kielbik
- Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232 Lodz, Poland; (I.S.-K.); (M.K.)
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13
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Zhang W, Yang M, Yu L, Hu Y, Deng Y, Liu Y, Xiao S, Ding Y. Long non-coding RNA lnc-DC in dendritic cells regulates trophoblast invasion via p-STAT3-mediated TIMP/MMP expression. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 83:e13239. [PMID: 32215978 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Dendritic cells are the primary antigen-presenting cells that contact trophoblasts at the beginning of pregnancy. Excessive DCs maturity is described in some pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction, which are characterized by impaired trophoblast invasion. However, the mechanism is unclear. The long non-coding RNA long non-coding RNA DC (lnc-DC) is expressed exclusively in conventional human DCs and induces DC differentiation and maturation by promoting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation. Our previous investigation proved lnc-DC and p-STAT3 are elevated in pre-eclampsia. This research is to study the mechanism of lnc-DC and trophoblast invasion. METHOD OF STUDY We transfected DCs with lnc-DC shRNA or a lentivirus for lnc-DC overexpression and cocultured these treated DCs with trophoblast under different conditions. Transwell assay and wound healing assay were used to detect the trophoblast invasion ability. We also tested the matured DCs and Th1 cells as well as the p-STAT3. RESULTS We found that lnc-DC promoted DC maturation and inhibited trophoblast invasion without the involvement of CD4+ T cells. And the p-STAT3 agonist could reverse the lnc-DC function. CONCLUSION Mature DCs may be involved in altering trophoblast invasion through the overexpression of lnc-DC, which increases p-STAT3 levels and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1)/matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2)/matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) ratios. Thus, lnc-DC is a promising novel target for regulating trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mengyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ling Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yun Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yali Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Songyuan Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yiling Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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14
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Wu CJ, Sundararajan V, Sheu BC, Huang RYJ, Wei LH. Activation of STAT3 and STAT5 Signaling in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Progression: Mechanism and Therapeutic Opportunity. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:cancers12010024. [PMID: 31861720 PMCID: PMC7017004 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal of all gynecologic malignancies. Despite advances in surgical and chemotherapeutic options, most patients with advanced EOC have a relapse within three years of diagnosis. Unfortunately, recurrent disease is generally not curable. Recent advances in maintenance therapy with anti-angiogenic agents or Poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors provided a substantial benefit concerning progression-free survival among certain women with advanced EOC. However, effective treatment options remain limited in most recurrent cases. Therefore, validated novel molecular therapeutic targets remain urgently needed in the management of EOC. Signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) and STAT5 are aberrantly activated through tyrosine phosphorylation in a wide variety of cancer types, including EOC. Extrinsic tumor microenvironmental factors in EOC, such as inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, hormones, and oxidative stress, can activate STAT3 and STAT5 through different mechanisms. Persistently activated STAT3 and, to some extent, STAT5 increase EOC tumor cell proliferation, survival, self-renewal, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance while suppressing anti-tumor immunity. By doing so, the STAT3 and STAT5 activation in EOC controls properties of both tumor cells and their microenvironment, driving multiple distinct functions during EOC progression. Clinically, increasing evidence indicates that the activation of the STAT3/STAT5 pathway has significant correlation with reduced survival of recurrent EOC, suggesting the importance of STAT3/STAT5 as potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. This review summarizes the distinct role of STAT3 and STAT5 activities in the progression of EOC and discusses the emerging therapies specifically targeting STAT3 and STAT5 signaling in this disease setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Jui Wu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
| | - Vignesh Sundararajan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, Singapore 117599, Singapore;
| | - Bor-Ching Sheu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
| | - Ruby Yun-Ju Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore;
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Hung Wei
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-J.W.); (B.-C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2312-3456 (ext. 71570); Fax: +886-2-2311-4965
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