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Miller MS, Cowan AD, Brouwer JM, Smyth ST, Peng L, Wardak AZ, Uren RT, Luo C, Roy MJ, Shah S, Tan Z, Reid GE, Colman PM, Czabotar PE. Sequence differences between BAX and BAK core domains manifest as differences in their interactions with lipids. FEBS J 2024; 291:2335-2353. [PMID: 38088212 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17031] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) family members, BCL2-associated protein X (BAX) and BCL2 homologous antagonist killer (BAK), are required for programmed cell death via the mitochondrial pathway. When cells are stressed, damaged or redundant, the balance of power between the BCL2 family of proteins shifts towards BAX and BAK, allowing their transition from an inactive, monomeric state to a membrane-active oligomeric form that releases cytochrome c from the mitochondrial intermembrane space. That oligomeric state has an essential intermediate, a symmetric homodimer of BAX or BAK. Here we describe crystal structures of dimers of the core domain of BAX, comprising its helices α2-α5. These structures provide an atomic resolution description of the interactions that drive BAX homo-dimerisation and insights into potential interaction between core domain dimers and membrane lipids. The previously identified BAK lipid-interacting sites are not conserved with BAX and are likely to determine the differences between them in their interactions with lipids. We also describe structures of heterodimers of BAK/BAX core domains, yielding further insight into the differences in lipid binding between BAX and BAK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S Miller
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Angus D Cowan
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Jason M Brouwer
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Sean T Smyth
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Liuyu Peng
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Ahmad Z Wardak
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Rachel T Uren
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Cindy Luo
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Michael J Roy
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Sayali Shah
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Ziwen Tan
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Gavin E Reid
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Peter M Colman
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Peter E Czabotar
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Vic., Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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Suraweera CD, Espinoza B, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Mastering Death: The Roles of Viral Bcl-2 in dsDNA Viruses. Viruses 2024; 16:879. [PMID: 38932171 PMCID: PMC11209288 DOI: 10.3390/v16060879] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteins of the Bcl-2 family regulate cellular fate via multiple mechanisms including apoptosis, autophagy, senescence, metabolism, inflammation, redox homeostasis, and calcium flux. There are several regulated cell death (RCD) pathways, including apoptosis and autophagy, that use distinct molecular mechanisms to elicit the death response. However, the same proteins/genes may be deployed in multiple biochemical pathways. In apoptosis, Bcl-2 proteins control the integrity of the mitochondrial outer membrane (MOM) by regulating the formation of pores in the MOM and apoptotic cell death. A number of prosurvival genes populate the genomes of viruses including those of the pro-survival Bcl-2 family. Viral Bcl-2 proteins are sequence and structural homologs of their cellular counterparts and interact with cellular proteins in apoptotic and autophagic pathways, potentially allowing them to modulate these pathways and determine cellular fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D. Suraweera
- Genome Sciences and Cancer Division, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra 2601, Australia;
| | - Benjamin Espinoza
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Mark G. Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Genome Sciences and Cancer Division, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra 2601, Australia;
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Chi H, Sun Y, Lin P, Zhou J, Zhang J, Yang Y, Qiao Y, Liu D. Glucose Fluctuation Inhibits Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Hippocampal Tissues and Exacerbates Cognitive Impairment in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. J Diabetes Res 2024; 2024:5584761. [PMID: 38282656 PMCID: PMC10817812 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5584761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This research investigated whether glucose fluctuation (GF) can exacerbate cognitive impairment in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and explored the related mechanism. Methods After 4 weeks of feeding with diets containing high fats plus sugar, the rat model of diabetes mellitus (DM) was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Then, GF was triggered by means of alternating satiety and starvation for 24 h. The weight, blood glucose level, and water intake of the rats were recorded. The Morris water maze (MWM) test was carried out to appraise the cognitive function at the end of week 12. Moreover, the morphological structure of hippocampal neurons was viewed through HE and Nissl staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed for ultrastructure observation. The protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 in the hippocampal tissues of rats were measured via Western blotting, and the mRNA expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 were examined using qRT-PCR. Finally, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were conducted to detect BDNF levels. Results It was manifested that GF not only aggravated the impairment of spatial memory in rats with STZ-induced type 2 DM but also stimulated the loss, shrinkage, and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. Regarding the expressions in murine hippocampal tissues, GF depressed Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1, Bcl-2, and BDNF but boosted Caspase-3 and Bax. Conclusions GF aggravates cognitive impairment by inhibiting the Nrf2 signaling pathway and inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis in the hippocampal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Chi
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Weihai Municipal Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, China
| | - Yujing Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Junyu Zhou
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinbiao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Weihai Municipal Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, China
| | - Yachao Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Weihai Municipal Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, China
| | - Yun Qiao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Deshan Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Zając A, Maciejczyk A, Sumorek-Wiadro J, Filipek K, Deryło K, Langner E, Pawelec J, Wasiak M, Ścibiorski M, Rzeski W, Tchórzewski M, Reichert M, Jakubowicz-Gil J. The Role of Bcl-2 and Beclin-1 Complex in "Switching" between Apoptosis and Autophagy in Human Glioma Cells upon LY294002 and Sorafenib Treatment. Cells 2023; 12:2670. [PMID: 38067099 PMCID: PMC10705223 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gliomas are the most malignant tumors of the central nervous system. One of the factors in their high drug resistance is avoiding programmed death (PCD) induction. This is related to the overexpression of intracellular survival pathways: PI3K-Akt/PKB-mTOR and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK. Apoptosis and autophagy are co-existing processes due to the interactions between Bcl-2 and beclin-1 proteins. Their complex may be a molecular "toggle-switch" between PCD types. The aim of this research was to investigate the role of Bcl-2:beclin-1 complex in glioma cell elimination through the combined action of LY294002 and sorafenib. METHODS Drug cytotoxicity was estimated with an MTT test. The type of cell death was evaluated using variant microscopy techniques (fluorochrome staining, immunocytochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy), as well as the Bcl-2:beclin-1 complex formation and protein localization. Molecular analysis of PCD indicators was conducted through immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, and ELISA testing. SiRNA was used to block Bcl-2 and beclin-1 expression. RESULTS The results showed the inhibitors used in simultaneous application resulted in Bcl-2:beclin-1 complex formation and apoptosis becoming dominant. This was accompanied by changes in the location of the tested proteins. CONCLUSIONS "Switching" between apoptosis and autophagy using PI3K and Raf inhibitors with Bcl-2:beclin-1 complex formation opens new therapeutic perspectives against gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Zając
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
| | - Aleksandra Maciejczyk
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
| | - Joanna Sumorek-Wiadro
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
| | - Kamil Filipek
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (K.F.); (K.D.); (M.T.)
| | - Kamil Deryło
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (K.F.); (K.D.); (M.T.)
| | - Ewa Langner
- Department of Medical Biology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Jarosław Pawelec
- Institute Microscopy Laboratory, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Wasiak
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, National Veterinary Research Institute, 57 Partyzantów Avenue, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Mateusz Ścibiorski
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
| | - Wojciech Rzeski
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
- Department of Medical Biology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marek Tchórzewski
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (K.F.); (K.D.); (M.T.)
| | - Michał Reichert
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, National Veterinary Research Institute, 57 Partyzantów Avenue, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (M.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Joanna Jakubowicz-Gil
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.S.-W.); (M.Ś.); (W.R.); (J.J.-G.)
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Sedky NK, Braoudaki M, Mahdy NK, Amin K, Fawzy IM, Efthimiadou EK, Youness RA, Fahmy SA. Box-Behnken design of thermo-responsive nano-liposomes loaded with a platinum(iv) anticancer complex: evaluation of cytotoxicity and apoptotic pathways in triple negative breast cancer cells. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5399-5413. [PMID: 37767043 PMCID: PMC10521260 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00368j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Herein, thermo-responsive liposomes (TLs) loaded with Asp (Asp/TLs) were produced by self-assembling DPPC, DSPE-PEG2000, and cholesterol. The preparation variables were optimized using the Box-Behnken design (BBD). The optimized Asp/TLs exhibited an average particle size of 114.05 ± 1.56 nm, PDI of 0.15 ± 0.015, zeta potential of -15.24 ± 0.65 mV, and entrapment efficiency (EE%) of 84.08 ± 2.75%. In addition, under physiological conditions, Asp/TLs showed spherical shape, outstanding stability and thermo-triggered the release of Asp at 38 °C, reaching the maximum Asp release at 40 °C. The MTT assay showed that the optimal Asp/TLs exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity upon exposure to mild hyperthermia (40 °C) against the invasive triple-negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) when compared to other preparations. The IC50 of Asp/TLs (40 °C) was estimated at 0.9 μg mL-1, while that of free Asp (40 °C) was 3.83 μg mL-1. As such, the optimal Asp/TLs were shown to increase the cytotoxic activity of Asp by 4-fold upon exposure to mild hyperthermia. The IC50 values of Asp and Asp/TLs without exposure to 40 °C were 6.6 μg mL-1 and 186 μg mL-1, respectively. This indicated that Asp was released only when placed at 40 °C. The apoptosis assay revealed that Asp/TLs (40 °C) caused a remarkable increase in the percentage of cell population among both the late apoptosis and necrosis quartiles, as well as a significant decline in the viable cell quartile (P ≤ 0.001) when compared to Asp (40 °C). Asp/TLs (40 °C) and Asp (40 °C) could stimulate the intrinsic apoptosis pathway by upregulating the apoptotic genes Bak and Bax, while downregulating the anti-apoptotic genes, BCL-xL and BCL-2. The free Asp (40 °C) increased the gene expression of Bak and Bax by 4.4- and 5.2-folds, while reducing the expression of BCL-xL and BCL-2 by 50% and 73%, respectively. The optimal Asp TLs (40 °C) manifested more potent effects as demonstrated by the upregulation of Bak, Bax, and P53 by 5.6-, 7.2-, and 1.3-folds, as well as the downregulation of BCL-xL and BCL-2 by 70% and 85%, respectively. As such, the optimal Asp TLs (40 °C) treatment displayed the most potent cytotoxic profile and induced both apoptosis and necrosis in MDA-MB-231.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada K Sedky
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation R5 New Garden City, New Administrative Capital Cairo Egypt
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hatfield AL10 9AB UK
| | - Noha Khalil Mahdy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University Kasr El-Aini Street 11562 Cairo Egypt
| | - Kenzy Amin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation R5 New Garden City, New Capital Cairo 11835 Egypt +20-1222613344
| | - Iten M Fawzy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University in Egypt 11835 Cairo Egypt
| | - Eleni K Efthimiadou
- Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Panepistimiopolis Zografou 157 71 Greece
| | - Rana A Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU) New Administrative Capital Cairo Egypt
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation R5 New Garden City, New Administrative Capital Cairo Egypt
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation R5 New Garden City, New Capital Cairo 11835 Egypt +20-1222613344
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Ismail HS, Khalil A, Taha RA, Lasheen DS, Abou El Ella DA. Design, molecular modelling and synthesis of novel benzothiazole derivatives as BCL-2 inhibitors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15554. [PMID: 37730790 PMCID: PMC10511702 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41783-1] [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: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a crucial role in cancer pathogenesis and drug resistance. BCL-2 family of enzymes is considered as one of the key enzymes which is involved in apoptosis. When there is disruption in the balance between anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic members of the BCL-2 family apoptosis is dysregulated in the affected cells. Herein, 33 novel benzothiazole-based molecules 7a-i, 8a-f, 9a-b, 12a-e, 13a-d, 14a,b, and 17a-j were designed, synthesized and tested for their BCL-2 inhibitory activity. Scaffold hopping strategy was applied in designing of the target compounds. Compounds 13c and 13d showed the highest activity with IC50 values equal to 0.471 and 0.363 µM, respectively. Molecular docking studies of the synthesized compounds showed comparable binding interactions with the lead compound. Structure activity relationship study was performed to show the effects of structural modifications on the inhibitory activities on BCL-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda S Ismail
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Khalil
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt (BUE), El-Sherouk City, Cairo, 11837, Egypt.
| | - Rabah A Taha
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Deena S Lasheen
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalal A Abou El Ella
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
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Zhang X, Zhang M, Huang S, Ohtani K, Xu L, Guo Y. Engineered Polymeric Nanovector for Intracellular Peptide Delivery in Antitumor Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:5343-5363. [PMID: 37746048 PMCID: PMC10517702 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s427536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to deliver a polypeptide from the Bax-BH3 domain (BHP) through the synthesis of self-assembled amphiphile nanovectors (NVs) and to assess their potential for cancer therapeutic applications and biological safety in vitro and in vivo. These findings provide valuable options for cancer intervention and a novel approach for the rational design of therapeutics. Methods We studied the antitumor activity of BHP by preparing RGDfK-PHPMA-b-Poly (MMA-alt-(Rhob-MA)) (RPPMMRA) and encapsulating it in BHP-NV. We also performed a series of characterizations and property analyses of RPPMMRA, including its size, stability, and drug-carrying capacity. The biocompatibility of RPPMMRA was evaluated in terms of cytotoxicity and hemolytic effects. The pro-apoptotic capacity of BHP was evaluated in vitro using mitochondrial membrane potential, flow cytometry, and apoptosis visualization techniques. The potential therapeutic effects of BHP on tumors were explored using reverse molecular docking. We also investigated the in vivo proapoptotic effect of BHP-NV in a nude mouse tumor model. Results NVs were successfully prepared with hydrated particle sizes ranging from 189.6 nm to 256.6 nm, spherical overall, and were able to remain stable in different media for 72 h with drug loading up to 15.2%. The NVs were be successfully internalized within 6 h with good biocompatibility. Neither BHP nor NV showed significant toxicity when administered alone, however, BHP-NV demonstrated significant side effects in vitro and in vivo. The apoptosis rate increased significantly from 14.13% to 66.34%. Experiments in vivo showed that BHP-NV exhibited significant apoptotic and tumor-suppressive effects. Conclusion A targeted fluorescent NV with high drug delivery efficiency and sustained release protected the active center of BHP, constituting BHP-NV for targeted delivery. RPPMMRA demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, stability, and drug loading ability, whereas and BHP-NV demonstrated potent antitumor effects in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sijun Huang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kiyoshi Ohtani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Hyogo, 669-1337, Japan
| | - Li Xu
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering, the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People’s Republic of China
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Vergara GA, Eugenio GC, Fleury Malheiros SM, Victor EDS, Weinlich R. Higher Mixed lineage Kinase Domain-like protein (MLKL) is associated with worst overall survival in adult-type diffuse glioma patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291019. [PMID: 37651429 PMCID: PMC10470898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, the search for novel molecular markers in adult-type diffuse gliomas has grown substantially, yet with few novel breakthroughs. As the presence of a necrotic center is a differential diagnosis for more aggressive entities, we hypothesized that genes involved in necroptosis may play a role in tumor progression. AIM Given that MLKL is the executioner of the necroptotic pathway, we evaluated whether this gene would help to predict prognosis of adult gliomas patients. METHODS We analyzed a publicly available retrospective cohort (n = 530) with Kaplan Meier survival analysis (p<0.0001) and both uni- and multivariate Cox regression models. RESULTS We determined that MLKL is an independent predictive prognostic marker for overall survival in these patients (HR: 2.56, p<0.001), even when controlled by the CNS5 gold-standard markers, namely IDH mutation and 1p/19q Codeletion (HR: 1.68, p = 0.013). These findings were confirmed in a validation cohort (n = 325), using the same cutoff value. Interestingly, higher expression of MLKL is associated with worse clinical outcome for adult-type diffuse glioma patients, which is opposite to what was found in other cell cancer types, suggesting that necroptosis undertakes an atypical detrimental role in glioma progression.
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Liu GY, Xie WL, Wang YT, Chen L, Xu ZZ, Lv Y, Wu QP. Calpain: the regulatory point of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1194402. [PMID: 37456811 PMCID: PMC10346867 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1194402] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Calpain is a conserved cysteine protease readily expressed in several mammalian tissues, which is usually activated by Ca2+ and with maximum activity at neutral pH. The activity of calpain is tightly regulated because its aberrant activation will nonspecifically cleave various proteins in cells. Abnormally elevation of Ca2+ promotes the abnormal activation of calpain during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion, resulting in myocardial injury and cardiac dysfunction. In this paper, we mainly reviewed the effects of calpain in various programmed cell death (such as apoptosis, mitochondrial-mediated necrosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, and parthanatos) in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion. In addition, we also discussed the abnormal activation of calpain during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion, the effect of calpain on myocardial repair, and the possible future research directions of calpain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Yang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Wan-Li Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Ting Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong Lv
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing-Ping Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
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Roh J, Pak HK, Jeong S, Hwang S, Kim DE, Choi HS, Kim SJ, Kim H, Cho H, Park JS, Jeong SH, Choi YS, Han JH, Yoon DH, Park CS. The comprehensive expression of BCL2 family genes determines the prognosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 673:36-43. [PMID: 37356143 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.06.061] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a prevalent and aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and 40% of patients succumb to death. Despite numerous clinical trials aimed at developing treatment strategies beyond the conventional R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) regimen, there have been no positive results thus far. Although the selective BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax has shown remarkable efficacy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, its therapeutic effect in DLBCL was limited. We hypothesized that the limited therapeutic effect of venetoclax in DLBCL may be attributed to the complex expression and interactions of BCL2 family members, including BCL2. Therefore, we aimed to comprehensively analyze the expression patterns of BCL2 family members in DLBCL. We analyzed 157 patients with de novo DLBCL diagnosed at Asan Medical Center and Ajou University Hospital. The mRNA expression levels of BCL2 family members were quantified using the NanoString technology. BCL2 family members showed distinct heterogeneous expression patterns both intra- and inter-patient. Using unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis, we were able to classify patients with similar BCL2 family expression pattern and select groups with clear prognostic features, C1 and C6. In the group with the best prognosis, C1, the expression of pro-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic BH3-only group gene expressions were increased, while anti-apoptotic group expression was significantly increased in both C1 and C6. Based on this, we generated the BCL2 signature score using the expression of pro-apoptotic genes BOK and BCL2L15, and anti-apoptotic gene BCL2. The BCL2 signature score 0 had the best prognosis, score 1/2 had intermediate prognosis, and score 3 had the worst prognosis (EFS, p = 0.0054; OS, p = 0.0011). Multivariate analysis, including COO and IPI, showed that increase in the BCL2 signature score was significantly associated with poor prognosis for EFS, independent of COO and IPI. The BCL2 signature score we proposed in this study provides information on BCL2 family deregulation based on the equilibrium of pro-versus anti-apoptotic BCL2 family, which can aid in the development of new treatment strategies for DLBCL in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Roh
- Department of Pathology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyo-Kyung Pak
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seongfeel Jeong
- Department of Medical Science, AMIST, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sewon Hwang
- Department of Medical Science, AMIST, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Do Eon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Medical Science, AMIST, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hwal-Seok Choi
- Department of Medical Science, AMIST, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - So-Jeong Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunji Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyungwoo Cho
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joon Seong Park
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seong Hyun Jeong
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yoon Seok Choi
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Ho Han
- Department of Pathology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dok Hyun Yoon
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chan-Sik Park
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
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11
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McGriff A, Placzek WJ. Phylogenetic analysis of the MCL1 BH3 binding groove and rBH3 sequence motifs in the p53 and INK4 protein families. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0277726. [PMID: 36696417 PMCID: PMC9876281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) proteins are central, conserved regulators of apoptosis. Bcl-2 family function is regulated by binding interactions between the Bcl-2 homology 3 (BH3) motif in pro-apoptotic family members and the BH3 binding groove found in both the pro-apoptotic effector and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members. A novel motif, the reverse BH3 (rBH3), has been shown to interact with the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 homolog MCL1 (Myeloid cell leukemia 1) and have been identified in the p53 homolog p73, and the CDK4/6 (cyclin dependent kinase 4/6) inhibitor p18INK4c, (p18, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 inhibitor c). To determine the conservation of rBH3 motif, we first assessed conservation of MCL1's BH3 binding groove, where the motif binds. We then constructed neighbor-joining phylogenetic trees of the INK4 and p53 protein families and analyzed sequence conservation using sequence logos of the rBH3 locus. This showed the rBH3 motif is conserved throughout jawed vertebrates p63 and p73 sequences and in chondrichthyans, amphibians, mammals, and some reptiles in p18. Finally, a potential rBH3 motif was identified in mammalian and osteichthyan p19INK4d (p19, cyclin dependent kinase 4 inhibitor d). These findings demonstrate that the interaction between MCL1 and other cellular proteins mediated by the rBH3 motif may be conserved throughout jawed vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna McGriff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - William J. Placzek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Song JX, Zhao YS, Zhen YQ, Yang XY, Chen Q, An JR, Ji ES. Banxia-Houpu decoction diminishes iron toxicity damage in heart induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:609-620. [PMID: 35286247 PMCID: PMC8928803 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2043392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) causes chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), which results in mitochondrial dysfunction and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the heart. Excessive free iron could accelerate oxidative damage, which may be involved in this process. Banxia-Houpu decoction (BHD) was reported to improve the apnoea hypopnoea index in OSA patients, but the specific mechanism was still unclear. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether BHD could reduce CIH-induced heart damage by regulating iron metabolism and mitochondrial function. MATERIALS AND METHODS C57BL/6N mice were randomly divided into control, CIH and BHD groups. Mice were exposed to CIH (21 - 5% O2, 20 times/h, 8 h/d) and administered BHD (3.51, 7.01 and 14.02 g/kg, intragastrically) for 21 d. Cardiac and mitochondrial function, iron levels, apoptosis and mitophagy were determined. RESULTS BHD (7.01 g/kg) significantly improved cardiac dysfunction, pathological change and mitochondrial structure induced by CIH. BHD increased the Bcl-2/Bax ratio (1.4-fold) and inhibited caspase 3 cleavage in CIH mice (0.45-fold). BHD activated mitophagy by upregulating Parkin (1.94-fold) and PINK1 (1.26-fold), inhibiting the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway. BHD suppressed ROS generation by decreasing NOX2 (0.59-fold) and 4-HNE (0.83-fold). BHD reduced the total iron in myocardial cells (0.72-fold) and mitochondrial iron by downregulating Mfrn2 (0.81-fold) and MtFt (0.78-fold) proteins, and upregulating ABCB8 protein (1.33-fold). Rosmarinic acid, the main component of Perilla Leaf in BHD, was able to react with Fe2+ and Fe3+ in vitro. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These findings encourage the use of BHD to resist cardiovascular injury and provide the theoretical basis for clinical treatment in OSA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Xian Song
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Ya-Shuo Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Ya-Qin Zhen
- Experimental Center, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Xin-Yue Yang
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Ji-Ren An
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
- First Clinical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, PR China
| | - En-Sheng Ji
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, PR China
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13
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Suraweera CD, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Crystal Structures of Epstein-Barr Virus Bcl-2 Homolog BHRF1 Bound to Bid and Puma BH3 Motif Peptides. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102222. [PMID: 36298777 PMCID: PMC9609553 DOI: 10.3390/v14102222] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a powerful defense mechanism used by multicellular organisms to counteract viral infection. In response to premature host cell suicide, viruses have evolved numerous countermeasures to ensure cell viability to optimize their replication by encoding proteins homologous in structure and function to cellular pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the Gammaherpesviridae, encodes the Bcl-2 homolog BHRF1, a potent inhibitor of Bcl-2-mediated apoptosis. BHRF1 acts by directly targeting Bid and Puma, two proapoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family. Here, we determined the crystal structures of BHRF1 bound to peptides spanning the Bcl-2 binding motifs (Bcl-2 homology 3 motif, BH3) of Bid and Puma. BHRF1 engages BH3 peptides using the canonical ligand-binding groove of its Bcl-2 fold and maintains a salt bridge between an Arg residue with a conserved Asp residue in the BH3 motif mimicking the canonical ionic interaction seen in host Bcl-2:BH3 motif complexes. Furthermore, both Bid and Puma utilize a fifth binding pocket in the canonical ligand binding groove of BHRF1 to provide an additional hydrophobic interaction distinct from the interactions previously seen with Bak and Bim. These findings provide a structural basis for EBV-mediated suppression of host cell apoptosis and reveal the flexibility of virus encoded Bcl-2 proteins in mimicking key interactions from the endogenous host signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D. Suraweera
- Department of Biochemistry & Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Mark G. Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry & Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
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Sora V, Papaleo E. Structural Details of BH3 Motifs and BH3-Mediated Interactions: an Updated Perspective. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:864874. [PMID: 35685242 PMCID: PMC9171138 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.864874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a mechanism of programmed cell death crucial in organism development, maintenance of tissue homeostasis, and several pathogenic processes. The B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein family lies at the core of the apoptotic process, and the delicate balance between its pro- and anti-apoptotic members ultimately decides the cell fate. BCL2 proteins can bind with each other and several other biological partners through the BCL2 homology domain 3 (BH3), which has been also classified as a possible Short Linear Motif and whose distinctive features remain elusive even after decades of studies. Here, we aim to provide an updated overview of the structural features characterizing BH3s and BH3-mediated interactions (with a focus on human proteins), elaborating on the plasticity of BCL2 proteins and the motif properties. We also discussed the implication of these findings for the discovery of interactors of the BH3-binding groove of BCL2 proteins and the design of mimetics for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Sora
- Cancer Structural Biology, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cancer Systems Biology, Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health and Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Elena Papaleo
- Cancer Structural Biology, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cancer Systems Biology, Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health and Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Elena Papaleo, ,
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15
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Suraweera CD, Banjara S, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Metazoans and Intrinsic Apoptosis: An Evolutionary Analysis of the Bcl-2 Family. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073691. [PMID: 35409052 PMCID: PMC8998228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family is a group of genes regulating intrinsic apoptosis, a process controlling events such as development, homeostasis and the innate and adaptive immune responses in metazoans. In higher organisms, Bcl-2 proteins coordinate intrinsic apoptosis through their regulation of the integrity of the mitochondrial outer membrane; this function appears to have originated in the basal metazoans. Bcl-2 genes predate the cnidarian-bilaterian split and have been identified in porifera, placozoans and cnidarians but not ctenophores and some nematodes. The Bcl-2 family is composed of two groups of proteins, one with an α-helical Bcl-2 fold that has been identified in porifera, placozoans, cnidarians, and almost all higher bilaterians. The second group of proteins, the BH3-only group, has little sequence conservation and less well-defined structures and is found in cnidarians and most bilaterians, but not porifera or placozoans. Here we examine the evolutionary relationships between Bcl-2 proteins. We show that the structures of the Bcl-2-fold proteins are highly conserved over evolutionary time. Some metazoans such as the urochordate Oikopleura dioica have lost all Bcl-2 family members. This gene loss indicates that Bcl-2 regulated apoptosis is not an absolute requirement in metazoans, a finding mirrored in recent gene deletion studies in mice. Sequence analysis suggests that at least some Bcl-2 proteins lack the ability to bind BH3-only antagonists and therefore potentially have other non-apoptotic functions. By examining the foundations of the Bcl-2 regulated apoptosis, functional relationships may be clarified that allow us to understand the role of specific Bcl-2 proteins in evolution and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D. Suraweera
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia; (C.D.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Suresh Banjara
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia; (C.D.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Mark G. Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia; (C.D.S.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
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16
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Rhodiola rosea: A Therapeutic Candidate on Cardiovascular Diseases. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:1348795. [PMID: 35265260 PMCID: PMC8898776 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1348795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases, also known as circulatory diseases, are diseases of the heart and blood vessels, and its etiology is hyperlipidemia, thick blood, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Due to its high prevalence, disability, and mortality, it seriously threatens human health. According to reports, the incidence of cardiovascular disease is still on the rise. Rhodiola rosea is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine, which has the effects of antimyocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, lowering blood fat, antithrombosis, and antiarrhythmia. Rhodiola rosea has various chemical components, and different chemical elements have the same pharmacological effects and medicinal values for various cardiovascular diseases. This article reviews the research on the pharmacological effects of Rhodiola rosea on cardiovascular diseases and provides references for the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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17
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Shaban NZ, Aboelsaad AM, Awad D, Abdulmalek SA, Shaban SY. Therapeutic effect of dithiophenolato chitosan nanocomposites against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:8487-8502. [PMID: 34487322 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15834-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Our previous study showed that dithiophenolate (DTP) and its chitosan nanoparticles (DTP-CSNPs) have abilities to bind with DNA helixes. So in this study, their lethal doses (LD50) and therapeutic roles against rat liver injuries induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) were evaluated. The study focused on the determination of the markers of oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis and compare the results with those of cisplatin treatment. The results revealed that LD50 values of DTP and DTP-CSNPs are 2187.5 and 1462.5 mg/kg, respectively. Treatment with DPT and DPT-CSNPs after CCl4 administration reduced liver injuries, induced by CCl4, and improved liver functions and architecture through the reduction of OS and apoptosis. Where the oxidant marker was decreased with elevations of antioxidant markers. Also, there was an elevation in Bcl-2 value, with decreases in caspase-8, Bax, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. DPT-CSNPs treatment gave preferable results than those treated with DPT. Moreover, DTP and DPT-CSNPs treatment gave better results than cisplatin treatment. The administration of healthy rats with low doses of DTP and DTP-CSNPs for 14 days had no effect. Otherwise, the study on HepG2 cell line showed that DTP and DPT-CSNPs inhibited cell growth by arresting cells in the G2/M phase and inducing cell death. In conclusion, DTP and DTP-CSNPs have antiapoptotic and anti-oxidative stress toward hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4. Moreover, DTP and DTP-CSNPs have anticancer activity against the HepG2 cell line. Generally, DTP-CSNPs are more effective than DTP. So, they can be used in the pharmacological fields, especially DTP-CSNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Z Shaban
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Aboelsaad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511, Egypt
| | - Doaa Awad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511, Egypt
| | - Shaymaa A Abdulmalek
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511, Egypt
| | - Shaban Y Shaban
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516, Egypt
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18
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5-Oxo-hexahydroquinoline and 5-oxo-tetrahydrocyclopentapyridine derivatives as promising antiproliferative agents with potential apoptosis-inducing capacity. Mol Divers 2021; 26:1481-1500. [PMID: 34671894 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-021-10281-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Discovery of novel anticancer agents is of crucial importance to expand the therapeutic options for cancer patients. In this study, a series of 49 5-oxo-hexahydroquinoline and 5-oxo-tetrahydrocyclopentapyridine analogs, containing different pyridine alkyl carboxylates at C3 and various aliphatic, aromatic, and heteroaromatic substitutions at the C4 position of the central core, were synthesized. The target compounds were tested for antiproliferative effect against three human cancer cell lines including MOLT-4 (acute lymphoblastic leukemia), K562 (chronic myelogenous leukemia), and MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma) by MTT assay, and the effect of the most potent derivatives on cell cycle was evaluated by RNase/propidium iodide (PI) flow cytometric assay. Generally, 5-oxo-hexahydroquinoline derivatives (E series) possessed superior antiproliferative activities compared to their 5-oxo-tetrahydrocyclopentapyridine counterparts (F series). 5-Oxo-hexahydroquinoline compounds bearing 2-pyridyl propyl carboxylate (group D) and 3-pyridyl propyl carboxylate (group E) were better antiproliferative agents than those bearing other pyridyl alkyl carboxylates. Five best compounds with IC50 values in the range of 9.5-22.9 µM against MOLT-4 cells were selected for cell-cycle analysis, which revealed that derivatives D5, E3, and E5 with 2,3-dichlorophenyl, 3-nitrophenyl, and 2-nitrophenyl substitutions at C4 position, respectively, may induce apoptosis in MOLT-4 cells. Molecular docking analysis, which was employed to make some predictions on the interaction of the most active derivatives with the binding site of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins, suggested that the compounds may be well accommodated within the binding sites of these anti-apoptotic proteins via hydrogen-bonding and hydrophobic interactions. The findings of this study present 5-oxo-hexahydroquinoline derivatives as antiproliferative agents with potential apoptosis-inducing ability in cancer cells.
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19
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Sperl LE, Rührnößl F, Schiller A, Haslbeck M, Hagn F. High-resolution analysis of the conformational transition of pro-apoptotic Bak at the lipid membrane. EMBO J 2021; 40:e107159. [PMID: 34523144 PMCID: PMC8521305 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020107159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Permeabilization of the outer mitochondrial membrane by pore-forming Bcl2 proteins is a crucial step for the induction of apoptosis. Despite a large set of data suggesting global conformational changes within pro-apoptotic Bak during pore formation, high-resolution structural details in a membrane environment remain sparse. Here, we used NMR and HDX-MS (Hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry) in lipid nanodiscs to gain important high-resolution structural insights into the conformational changes of Bak at the membrane that are dependent on a direct activation by BH3-only proteins. Furthermore, we determined the first high-resolution structure of the Bak transmembrane helix. Upon activation, α-helix 1 in the soluble domain of Bak dissociates from the protein and adopts an unfolded and dynamic potentially membrane-bound state. In line with this finding, comparative protein folding experiments with Bak and anti-apoptotic BclxL suggest that α-helix 1 in Bak is a metastable structural element contributing to its pro-apoptotic features. Consequently, mutagenesis experiments aimed at stabilizing α-helix 1 yielded Bak variants with delayed pore-forming activity. These insights will contribute to a better mechanistic understanding of Bak-mediated membrane permeabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Sperl
- Bavarian NMR Center at the Department of ChemistryTechnical University of MunichGarchingGermany
- Institute of Structural BiologyHelmholtz Zentrum MünchenNeuherbergGermany
| | - Florian Rührnößl
- Center for Functional Protein Assemblies and Department of ChemistryTechnical University of MunichGarchingGermany
| | - Anita Schiller
- Bavarian NMR Center at the Department of ChemistryTechnical University of MunichGarchingGermany
- Institute of Structural BiologyHelmholtz Zentrum MünchenNeuherbergGermany
| | - Martin Haslbeck
- Center for Functional Protein Assemblies and Department of ChemistryTechnical University of MunichGarchingGermany
| | - Franz Hagn
- Bavarian NMR Center at the Department of ChemistryTechnical University of MunichGarchingGermany
- Institute of Structural BiologyHelmholtz Zentrum MünchenNeuherbergGermany
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20
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New insights into binding of natural chalcones to Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 anti-apoptotic proteins. J Mol Struct 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.130700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Daskalov A, Glass NL. Gasdermin and Gasdermin-Like Pore-Forming Proteins in Invertebrates, Fungi and Bacteria. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167273. [PMID: 34599942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The gasdermin family of pore-forming proteins (PFPs) has recently emerged as key molecular players controlling immune-related cell death in mammals. Characterized mammalian gasdermins are activated through proteolytic cleavage by caspases or serine proteases, which remove an inhibitory carboxy-terminal domain, allowing the pore-formation process. Processed gasdermins form transmembrane pores permeabilizing the plasma membrane, which often results in lytic and inflammatory cell death. While the gasdermin-dependent cell death (pyroptosis) has been predominantly characterized in mammals, it now has become clear that gasdermins also control cell death in early vertebrates (teleost fish) and invertebrate animals such as corals (Cnidaria). Moreover, gasdermins and gasdermin-like proteins have been identified and characterized in taxa outside of animals, notably Fungi and Bacteria. Fungal and bacterial gasdermins share many features with mammalian gasdermins including their mode of activation through proteolysis. It has been shown that in some cases the proteolytic activation is executed by evolutionarily related proteases acting downstream of proteins resembling immune receptors controlling pyroptosis in mammals. Overall, these findings establish gasdermins and gasdermin-regulated cell death as an extremely ancient mechanism of cellular suicide and build towards an understanding of the evolution of regulated cell death in the context of immunology. Here, we review the broader gasdermin family, focusing on recent discoveries in invertebrates, fungi and bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asen Daskalov
- Institut de Biochimie et Génétique Cellulaires, University of Bordeaux, France.
| | - N Louise Glass
- The Plant and Microbial Biology Department, The University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-3102, United States
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22
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Potential applications of BPFP1 in Bcl-2 protein quantification, carcinoma cell visualization, cell sorting and early cancer diagnosis. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 224:113725. [PMID: 34375882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of the Bcl-2 protein has emerged as a hallmark of carcinoma cells and can be employed as a biochemical biomarker of these cells. Therefore, some Bcl-2 protein fluorescence probes (BPFPs) were designed for Bcl-2 protein quantification and carcinoma cells labeling. The high Bcl-2 protein binding affinity (Ki < 1 nM) and selectivity (over 50,000-fold Bcl-2 protein selectivity against Mcl-1 protein) of BPFP1 endow it with the ability to detect trace amounts of Bcl-2 protein. After being incubated with a range of concentrations of Bcl-2 protein, BPFP1 exhibited the desired fluorescence properties and its fluorescence intensity is proportional to Bcl-2 protein concentration. Therefore, BPFP1 provides a convenient approach for Bcl-2 protein quantification and we could determine the concentration of Bcl-2 protein based on the BPFP1's fluorescence intensity. Subsequent studies revealed that BPFP1 can fluorescently label carcinoma cells by binding to overexpressed Bcl-2 protein in living cells, and can distinguish carcinoma cells (HL-60 cells and ACHN cells) from normal-tissue cells (HUVECs) according to the different Bcl-2 protein expression levels between carcinoma cells and normal tissue cells. In the present study, BPFP1 represents a new tool for Bcl-2 protein quantification, carcinoma cell visualization and cell sorting. Moreover, BPFP1 can be used in the future for early cancer diagnosis by detecting carcinoma cells in patient tissues.
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23
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MicroRNA 181a-2-3p Alleviates the Apoptosis of Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells via Targeting GJB2 in Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury. Mol Cell Biol 2021; 41:e0001621. [PMID: 33875577 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00016-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most common complication of sepsis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the sepsis-induced AKI. This paper aimed to explore the role of miRNA 181a-2-3p (miR-181a-2-3p) in the sepsis-induced AKI and the underlying mechanism. Our results revealed that miR-181a-2-3p showed low expression levels in patients with sepsis and mouse models undergoing cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The addition of miR-181a-2-3p antagonists aggravated the sepsis-induced kidney injuries and inflammatory response in CLP mouse models, as suggested by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In addition, miR-181a-2-3p mimic alleviated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response, along with apoptosis of TCMK-1. Moreover, results from the GSE46955 data set indicated that GJB2 was highly expressed in septic patients but lowly expressed after recovery. Further, the dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were carried out, which confirmed that GJB2 was a target of miR-181a-2-3p, and overexpression of GJB2 reversed the anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects of miR-181a-2-3p mimic on the LPS-induced sepsis cell models. In conclusion, miR-181a-2-3p alleviates the inflammatory response and cell apoptosis of septic patients and animal models by upregulating GJB2 expression, which may provide a new therapeutic strategy for sepsis.
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24
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Mushtaq AU, Ådén J, Clifton LA, Wacklin-Knecht H, Campana M, Dingeldein APG, Persson C, Sparrman T, Gröbner G. Neutron reflectometry and NMR spectroscopy of full-length Bcl-2 protein reveal its membrane localization and conformation. Commun Biol 2021; 4:507. [PMID: 33907308 PMCID: PMC8079415 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02032-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) proteins are the main regulators of mitochondrial apoptosis. Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins possess a hydrophobic tail-anchor enabling them to translocate to their target membrane and to shift into an active conformation where they inhibit pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins to ensure cell survival. To address the unknown molecular basis of their cell-protecting functionality, we used intact human Bcl-2 protein natively residing at the mitochondrial outer membrane and applied neutron reflectometry and NMR spectroscopy. Here we show that the active full-length protein is entirely buried into its target membrane except for the regulatory flexible loop domain (FLD), which stretches into the aqueous exterior. The membrane location of Bcl-2 and its conformational state seems to be important for its cell-protecting activity, often infamously upregulated in cancers. Most likely, this situation enables the Bcl-2 protein to sequester pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins at the membrane level while sensing cytosolic regulative signals via its FLD region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jörgen Ådén
- Department of Chemistry, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Luke A Clifton
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Science&Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Hanna Wacklin-Knecht
- European Spallation Source ERIC, ESS, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Chemistry, Division of Physical Chemistry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mario Campana
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Science&Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | - Cecilia Persson
- The Swedish NMR Center, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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25
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Wang H, Hu X, Li M, Pan Z, Li D, Zheng Q. Daphnoretin induces reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis in melanoma cells. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:453. [PMID: 33907563 PMCID: PMC8063224 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Research suggests that daphnoretin exhibits a diverse array of antitumor mechanisms and pharmacological activities. However, there is no definitive explanation for the antitumor mechanisms of daphnoretin in malignant melanoma. In the present study, MTT and colony formation assays demonstrated that daphnoretin significantly inhibited the proliferation of melanoma A375 and B16 cells. Following treatment with daphnoretin, apoptotic bodies were observed in A375 and B16 cells via Hoechst 33258 staining. Furthermore, western blot analysis revealed that the apoptosis-related proteins cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, Bax, cytochrome c and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 were significantly upregulated, while the expression levels of caspase-3, caspase-9 and Bcl-2 were downregulated in A375 and B16 cells. Flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy revealed that daphnoretin induced higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, the results of the present study indicated that daphnoretin induced ROS-mediated mitochondria apoptosis in human (A375) and murine (B16) malignant melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832003, P.R. China
| | - Xue Hu
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Tumor Metabolism, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Minjing Li
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Tumor Metabolism, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Zhaohai Pan
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Tumor Metabolism, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Defang Li
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Tumor Metabolism, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Qiusheng Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832003, P.R. China.,Yantai Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Tumor Metabolism, School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
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26
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Crystal structures of ORFV125 provide insight into orf virus-mediated inhibition of apoptosis. Biochem J 2021; 477:4527-4541. [PMID: 33175095 PMCID: PMC7719400 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Premature apoptosis of cells is a strategy utilized by multicellular organisms to counter microbial threats. Orf virus (ORFV) is a large double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the poxviridae. ORFV encodes for an apoptosis inhibitory protein ORFV125 homologous to B-cell lymphoma 2 or Bcl-2 family proteins, which has been shown to inhibit host cell encoded pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. However, the structural basis of apoptosis inhibition by ORFV125 remains to be clarified. We show that ORFV125 is able to bind to a range of peptides spanning the BH3 motif of human pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins including Bax, Bak, Puma and Hrk with modest to weak affinity. We then determined the crystal structures of ORFV125 alone as well as bound to the highest affinity ligand Bax BH3 motif. ORFV125 adopts a globular Bcl-2 fold comprising 7 α-helices, and utilizes the canonical Bcl-2 binding groove to engage pro-apoptotic host cell Bcl-2 proteins. In contrast with a previously predicted structure, ORFV125 adopts a domain-swapped dimeric topology, where the α1 helix from one protomer is swapped into a neighbouring unit. Furthermore, ORFV125 differs from the conserved architecture of the Bcl-2 binding groove and instead of α3 helix forming one of the binding groove walls, ORFV125 utilizes an extended α2 helix that comprises the equivalent region of helix α3. This results in a subtle variation of previously observed dimeric Bcl-2 architectures in other poxvirus and human encoded Bcl-2 proteins. Overall, our results provide a structural and mechanistic basis for orf virus-mediated inhibition of host cell apoptosis.
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27
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Malishev R, Ben-Zichri S, Oren O, Shauloff N, Peretz T, Taube R, Papo N, Jelinek R. The pro-apoptotic domain of BIM protein forms toxic amyloid fibrils. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:2145-2155. [PMID: 32844279 PMCID: PMC11072030 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03623-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BIM is a key apoptotic protein, participating in diverse cellular processes. Interestingly, recent studies have hypothesized that BIM is associated with the extensive neuronal cell death encountered in protein misfolding diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Here, we report that the core pro-apoptotic domain of BIM, the BIM-BH3 motif, forms ubiquitous amyloid fibrils. The BIM-BH3 fibrils exhibit cytotoxicity, disrupt mitochondrial functions, and modulate the structures and dynamics of mitochondrial membrane mimics. Interestingly, a slightly longer peptide in which BIM-BH3 was flanked by four additional residues, widely employed as a model of the pro-apoptotic core domain of BIM, did not form fibrils, nor exhibited cell disruptive properties. The experimental data suggest a new mechanistic role for the BIM-BH3 domain, and demonstrate, for the first time, that an apoptotic peptide forms toxic amyloid fibrils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravit Malishev
- Department of Chemistry and Ilse, Katz Institute for Nanotechnology, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Shani Ben-Zichri
- Department of Chemistry and Ilse, Katz Institute for Nanotechnology, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Ofek Oren
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Nitzan Shauloff
- Department of Chemistry and Ilse, Katz Institute for Nanotechnology, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Tal Peretz
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Ran Taube
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Niv Papo
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Raz Jelinek
- Department of Chemistry and Ilse, Katz Institute for Nanotechnology, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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28
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Cancer cell death strategies by targeting Bcl-2's BH4 domain. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118983. [PMID: 33549704 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Bcl-2-family proteins have long been known for their role as key regulators of apoptosis. Overexpression of various members of the family is associated with oncogenesis. Its founding member, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 regulates cell death at different levels, whereby Bcl-2 emerged as a major drug target to eradicate cancers through cell death. This resulted in the development of venetoclax, a Bcl-2 antagonist that acts as a BH3 mimetic. Venetoclax already entered the clinic to treat relapse chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. Here, we discuss the role of Bcl-2 as a decision-maker in cell death with focus on the recent advances in anti-cancer therapeutics that target the BH4 domain of Bcl-2, thereby interfering with non-canonical functions of Bcl-2 in Ca2+-signaling modulation. In particular, we critically discuss previously developed tools, including the peptide BIRD-2 (Bcl-2/IP3R-disrupter-2) and the small molecule BDA-366. In addition, we present a preliminary analysis of two recently identified molecules that emerged from a molecular modeling approach to target Bcl-2's BH4 domain, which however failed to induce cell death in two Bcl-2-dependent diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cell models. Overall, antagonizing the non-canonical functions of Bcl-2 by interfering with its BH4-domain biology holds promise to elicit cell death in cancer, though improved tools and on-target antagonizing small molecules remain necessary and ought to be designed.
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29
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Miles JA, Hobor F, Trinh CH, Taylor J, Tiede C, Rowell PR, Jackson BR, Nadat FA, Ramsahye P, Kyle HF, Wicky BIM, Clarke J, Tomlinson DC, Wilson AJ, Edwards TA. Selective Affimers Recognise the BCL-2 Family Proteins BCL-x L and MCL-1 through Noncanonical Structural Motifs*. Chembiochem 2021; 22:232-240. [PMID: 32961017 PMCID: PMC7821230 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The BCL-2 family is a challenging group of proteins to target selectively due to sequence and structural homologies across the family. Selective ligands for the BCL-2 family regulators of apoptosis are useful as probes to understand cell biology and apoptotic signalling pathways, and as starting points for inhibitor design. We have used phage display to isolate Affimer reagents (non-antibody-binding proteins based on a conserved scaffold) to identify ligands for MCL-1, BCL-xL , BCL-2, BAK and BAX, then used multiple biophysical characterisation methods to probe the interactions. We established that purified Affimers elicit selective recognition of their target BCL-2 protein. For anti-apoptotic targets BCL-xL and MCL-1, competitive inhibition of their canonical protein-protein interactions is demonstrated. Co-crystal structures reveal an unprecedented mode of molecular recognition; where a BH3 helix is normally bound, flexible loops from the Affimer dock into the BH3 binding cleft. Moreover, the Affimers induce a change in the target proteins towards a desirable drug-bound-like conformation. These proof-of-concept studies indicate that Affimers could be used as alternative templates to inspire the design of selective BCL-2 family modulators and more generally other protein-protein interaction inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Miles
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Fruzsina Hobor
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Chi H. Trinh
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - James Taylor
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Christian Tiede
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Philip R. Rowell
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Brian R. Jackson
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Protein Production FacilityUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Fatima A. Nadat
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Protein Production FacilityUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Pallavi Ramsahye
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Hannah F. Kyle
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Basile I. M. Wicky
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of CambridgeLensfield RoadCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
| | - Jane Clarke
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of CambridgeLensfield RoadCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
| | - Darren C. Tomlinson
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Andrew J. Wilson
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Thomas A. Edwards
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
- Astbury Centre For Structural Molecular BiologyUniversity of LeedsWoodhouse LaneLeedsLS2 9JTUK
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30
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Wu L, Liang C, Huang X, Deng X, Jiang J, Luo Z. Salubrinal Regulates the Apoptosis of Adrenocortical Carcinoma Cells via the PERK/eIF2 α/ATF4 Signaling Pathway. Int J Endocrinol 2021; 2021:5038130. [PMID: 34567111 PMCID: PMC8461226 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5038130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The protein-kinase-R- (PKR-) like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) signaling pathway is a well-known promoter of cell apoptosis. In this study, we aimed to determine whether salubrinal (Sal), a selective activator of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2α), can induce apoptosis of human adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) cell via activating the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling pathway, and the potential mechanisms of this action were explored. The ACC cell lines, including SW-13 and NCI-H295 R, were used. 3-(4,5)-Dimethylthiazol(-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay, cell scratch experiments, flow cytometry, and JC-1 staining assays were performed to detect the cell viability, cell migration, and cell apoptosis. The expression of PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling-pathway-related proteins and apoptosis-related proteins was detected by western blot (WB). Intracellular Ca2+ ion concentration was determined by a confocal laser scanning microscope. The results showed that Sal inhibited the migration and proliferation of ACC cells. Sal remarkably increased the influx of Ca2+ ion and the apoptosis rate of ACC cells in vitro. Furthermore, the expression levels of PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling-related proteins and apoptosis-related proteins were upregulated in the treatment of Sal. The research demonstrated that Sal reduces the cell viability, increases the intracellular calcium concentration, and promotes the apoptosis of ACC cells in vitro through increasing the phosphorylation level of eIF2α and activating the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling. PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 is expected to act as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
- Department of Integrated Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Chunfeng Liang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Xuemei Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Xiujun Deng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Jiming Jiang
- Department of Analysis for Cosmetics (Dietary Supplements), Guangxi Institute for Food and Drug Control, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Zuojie Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
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31
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Hazafa A, Batool A, Ahmad S, Amjad M, Chaudhry SN, Asad J, Ghuman HF, Khan HM, Naeem M, Ghani U. Humanin: A mitochondrial-derived peptide in the treatment of apoptosis-related diseases. Life Sci 2021; 264:118679. [PMID: 33130077 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Humanin (HN) is a small mitochondrial-derived cytoprotective polypeptide encoded by mtDNA. HN exhibits protective effects in several cell types, including leukocytes, germ cells, neurons, tissues against cellular stress conditions and apoptosis through regulating various signaling mechanisms, such as JAK/STAT pathway and interaction of BCL-2 family of protein. HN is an essential cytoprotective peptide in the human body that regulates mitochondrial functions under stress conditions. The present review aims to evaluate HN peptide's antiapoptotic activities as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of cancer, diabetes mellitus, male infertility, bone-related diseases, cardiac diseases, and brain diseases. Based on in vitro and in vivo studies, HN significantly suppressed the apoptosis during the treatment of bone osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative diseases. According to accumulated data, it is concluded that HN exerts the proapoptotic activity of TNF-α in cancer, which makes HN as a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of cancer and suggested that along with HN, the development of another mitochondrial-derived peptide could be a viable therapeutic option against different oxidative stress and apoptosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Hazafa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Ammara Batool
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Ahmad
- Centre of Biotechnology & Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Amjad
- Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Sundas Nasir Chaudhry
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Jamal Asad
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hasham Feroz Ghuman
- Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Naeem
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Usman Ghani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
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32
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Fan Y, Hou X, Fang H. Recent Advances in the Development of Selective Mcl-1 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Cancer (2017-Present). Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2020; 15:306-320. [DOI: 10.2174/1574892815666200916124641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) protein, as a critical pro-survival member
of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) protein family, plays an important role in apoptosis, carcinogenesis
and resistance to chemotherapies. Hence, potently and selectively inhibiting Mcl-1 to induce
apoptosis has become a widely accepted anticancer strategy.
Objective:
This review intends to provide a comprehensive overview of patents and primary literature,
published from 2017 to present, on small molecule Mcl-1 inhibitors with various scaffolds.
By analyzing the modes of compound-protein interactions, the similarities and differences of those
structures are discussed, which could provide guidance for future drug design.
Methods:
The primary accesses for patent searching are SciFinder and Espacenet®. Besides the data
disclosed in patents, some results published in the follow-up research papers will be included in
this review.
Results:
The review covers dozens of patents on Mcl-1 inhibitors in the past three years, and the
scaffolds of compounds are mainly divided into indole scaffolds and non-indole scaffolds. The
compounds described here are compared with the relevant inhibitors disclosed in previous patents,
and representative compounds, especially those launched in clinical trials, are emphasized in this review.
Conclusion:
For most of the compounds in these patents, analyses of the binding affinity to Mcl-1
and studies in multiple cell lines were conducted, wherein some compounds were tested in preclinical
cancer models or were included in other biological studies. Some compounds showed promising
results and potential for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Fan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xuben Hou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Fang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Suraweera CD, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Poxviral Strategies to Overcome Host Cell Apoptosis. Pathogens 2020; 10:pathogens10010006. [PMID: 33374867 PMCID: PMC7823800 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of cellular suicide initiated either via extracellular (extrinsic apoptosis) or intracellular (intrinsic apoptosis) cues. This form of programmed cell death plays a crucial role in development and tissue homeostasis in multicellular organisms and its dysregulation is an underlying cause for many diseases. Intrinsic apoptosis is regulated by members of the evolutionarily conserved B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family, a family that consists of pro- and anti-apoptotic members. Bcl-2 genes have also been assimilated by numerous viruses including pox viruses, in particular the sub-family of chordopoxviridae, a group of viruses known to infect almost all vertebrates. The viral Bcl-2 proteins are virulence factors and aid the evasion of host immune defenses by mimicking the activity of their cellular counterparts. Viral Bcl-2 genes have proved essential for the survival of virus infected cells and structural studies have shown that though they often share very little sequence identity with their cellular counterparts, they have near-identical 3D structures. However, their mechanisms of action are varied. In this review, we examine the structural biology, molecular interactions, and detailed mechanism of action of poxvirus encoded apoptosis inhibitors and how they impact on host–virus interactions to ultimately enable successful infection and propagation of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D. Suraweera
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Mark G. Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia;
- Correspondence: (M.G.H.); (M.K.)
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Reddy CN, Manzar N, Ateeq B, Sankararamakrishnan R. Computational Design of BH3-Mimetic Peptide Inhibitors That Can Bind Specifically to Mcl-1 or Bcl-X L: Role of Non-Hot Spot Residues. Biochemistry 2020; 59:4379-4394. [PMID: 33146015 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.0c00661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between pro- and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins decide the fate of the cell. The BH3 domain of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins interacts with the exposed hydrophobic groove of their anti-apoptotic counterparts. Through their design and development, BH3 mimetics that target the hydrophobic groove of specific anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins have the potential to become anticancer drugs. We have developed a novel computational method for designing sequences with BH3 domain features that can bind specifically to anti-apoptotic Mcl-1 or Bcl-XL. In this method, we retained the four highly conserved hydrophobic and aspartic residues of wild-type BH3 sequences and randomly substituted all other positions to generate a large number of BH3-like sequences. We modeled 20000 complex structures with Mcl-1 or Bcl-XL using the BH3-like sequences derived from five wild-type pro-apoptotic BH3 peptides. Peptide-protein interaction energies calculated from these models for each set of BH3-like sequences resulted in negatively skewed extreme value distributions. The selected BH3-like sequences from the extreme negative tail regions have highly favorable interaction energies with Mcl-1 or Bcl-XL. They are enriched in acidic and basic residues when they bind to Mcl-1 and Bcl-XL, respectively. With the charged residues often away from the binding interface, the overall electric field generated by the charged residues results in strong long-range electrostatic interaction energies between the peptide and the protein giving rise to high specificity. Cell viability studies of representative BH3-like peptides further validated the predicted specificity. This study has revealed the importance of non-hot spot residues in BH3-mimetic peptides in providing specificity to a particular anti-apoptotic protein.
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35
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Yuan J, Lan H, Jiang X, Zeng D, Xiao S. Bcl‑2 family: Novel insight into individualized therapy for ovarian cancer (Review). Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:1255-1265. [PMID: 32945348 PMCID: PMC7447322 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance to platinum‑based chemotherapy for ovarian cancer in the advanced stage remains a formidable concern clinically. Increasing evidence has revealed that apoptosis represents the terminal events of the anti‑tumor mechanisms of a number of chemical drugs and has a close association with chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. The B‑cell lymphoma‑2 (Bcl‑2) family plays a crucial role in apoptosis and has a close association with chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. Some drugs that target Bcl‑2 family members have shown efficacy in overcoming the chemoresistance of ovarian cancer. A BH3 profiling assay was found to be able to predict how primed a cell is when treated with antitumor drugs. The present review summarizes the role of the Bcl‑2 family in mediating cell death in response to antitumor drugs and novel drugs that target Bcl‑2 family members. The application of the new functional assay, BH3 profiling, is also discussed herein. Furthermore, the present review presents the hypothesis that targeting Bcl‑2 family members may prove to be helpful for the individualized therapy of ovarian cancer in clinical practice and in laboratory research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yuan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Hua Lan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Jiang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Da Zeng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Songshu Xiao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
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36
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Banjara S, D Sa J, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. The structural basis of Bcl-2 mediated cell death regulation in hydra. Biochem J 2020; 477:3287-3297. [PMID: 32776134 PMCID: PMC7489894 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis is regulated by evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways to remove damaged, diseased or unwanted cells. Proteins homologous to the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family of proteins, the primary arbiters of mitochondrially mediated apoptosis, are encoded by the cnidarian Hydra vulgaris. We mapped interactions between pro-survival and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins of H. vulgaris by affinity measurements between Hy-Bcl-2-4, the sole confirmed pro-survival Bcl-2 protein, with BH3 motif peptides of two Bcl-2 proteins from hydra that displayed pro-apoptotic activity, Hy-Bak1 and Hy-BH3-only-2, and the BH3 motif peptide of the predicted pro-apoptotic protein Hy-Bax. In addition to peptides from hydra encoded pro-apoptotic proteins, Hy-Bcl-2-4 also engaged BH3 motif peptides from multiple human pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. Reciprocally, human pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Bcl-w, Mcl-1 and A1/Bfl-1 bound to BH3 spanning peptides from hydra encoded pro-apoptotic Hy-Bak1, Hy-BH3-only and Hy-Bax. The molecular details of the interactions were determined from crystal structures of Hy-Bcl-2-4 complexes with BH3 motif peptides of Hy-Bak1 and Hy-Bax. Our findings suggest that the Bcl-2 family in hydra may function in a manner analogous to the Bcl-2 family in humans, and less like the worm Caenorhabditis elegans where evolutionary gene deletion has simplified the apoptotic program. Combined, our results demonstrate the powerful conservation of the interaction pattern between hydra and human Bcl-2 family members. Furthermore, our data reveal mechanistic differences in the mode of binding between hydra and sponges such as Geodia cydonium, with hydra encoded Bcl-2 resembling the more promiscuous pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 members found in mammals compared with its sponge counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Banjara
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Jaison D Sa
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Mark G. Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
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37
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Downregulation of CDC20 Increases Radiosensitivity through Mcl-1/p-Chk1-Mediated DNA Damage and Apoptosis in Tumor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186692. [PMID: 32932732 PMCID: PMC7555290 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an important modality for the local control of human cancers, but the radioresistance induced by aberrant apoptotic signaling is a hallmark of cancers. Restoring the aberrant apoptotic pathways is an emerging strategy for cancer radiotherapy. In this study, we determined that targeting cell division cycle 20 (CDC20) radiosensitized colorectal cancer (CRC) cells through mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic signaling. CDC20 was overexpressed in CRC cells and upregulated after radiation. Inhibiting CDC20 activities genetically or pharmacologically suppressed the proliferation and increased radiation-induced DNA damage and intrinsic apoptosis in CRC cells. Mechanistically, knockdown of CDC20 suppressed the expression of antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1 but not other Bcl-2 family proteins. The expressions of CDC20 and Mcl-1 respond to radiation simultaneously through direct interaction, as evidenced by immunoprecipitation and glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down assays. Subsequently, decreased Mcl-1 expression inhibited the expression level of phosphorylated checkpoint kinase 1 (p-Chk1), thereby resulting in impaired DNA damage repair through downregulating the homologous recombination repair protein Rad51 and finally causing apoptotic signaling. In addition, both CDC20 and Chk1 inhibitors together, through in vivo studies, confirmed the radiosensitizing effect of CDC20 via inhibiting Mcl-1 and p-Chk1 expression. In summary, our results indicate that targeting CDC20 is a promising strategy to improve cancer radiotherapy.
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38
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Transient Unfolding and Long-Range Interactions in Viral BCL2 M11 Enable Binding to the BECN1 BH3 Domain. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091308. [PMID: 32932757 PMCID: PMC7564285 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral BCL2 proteins (vBCL2s) help to sustain chronic infection of host proteins to inhibit apoptosis and autophagy. However, details of conformational changes in vBCL2s that enable binding to BH3Ds remain unknown. Using all-atom, multiple microsecond-long molecular dynamic simulations (totaling 17 μs) of the murine γ-herpesvirus 68 vBCL2 (M11), and statistical inference techniques, we show that regions of M11 transiently unfold and refold upon binding of the BH3D. Further, we show that this partial unfolding/refolding within M11 is mediated by a network of hydrophobic interactions, which includes residues that are 10 Å away from the BH3D binding cleft. We experimentally validate the role of these hydrophobic interactions by quantifying the impact of mutating these residues on binding to the Beclin1/BECN1 BH3D, demonstrating that these mutations adversely affect both protein stability and binding. To our knowledge, this is the first study detailing the binding-associated conformational changes and presence of long-range interactions within vBCL2s.
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39
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Yang T, Xu Z, Liu W, Xu B, Deng Y. Oxidative stress accelerates synaptic glutamate dyshomeostasis and NMDARs disorder during methylmercury-induced neuronal apoptosis in rat cerebral cortex. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2020; 35:683-696. [PMID: 32061141 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxin,which leads to a wide range of intracellular effects. The molecular mechanismsassociated to MeHg-induced neurotoxicity have not been fully understood.Oxidative stress, as well as synaptic glutamate (Glu) dyshomeostasis have beenidentified as two critical mechanisms during MeHg-mediated cytotoxicity. Here,we developed a rat model of MeHg poisoning to evaluate its neurotoxic effectsby focusing on cellular oxidative stress and synaptic Glu disruption. Inaddition, we investigated the neuroprotective role of alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA), a natural antioxidant, todeeply explore the underlying interaction between them. Fifty-six rats wererandomly divided into four groups: saline control, MeHg treatment (4 or 12μmol/kg MeHg), and α-LApre-treatment (35 μmol/kg α-LA+12μmol/kg MeHg). Rats exposed to 12 μmol/kg MeHg induced neuronal oxidativestress, with ROS accumulation and cellular antioxidant system impairment. Nrf2 andxCT pathways were activated with MeHg treatment. The enzymatic or non-enzymaticof cellular GSH synthesis were also disrupted by MeHg. On the other hand, the abnormalactivities of GS and PAG disturbed the "Glu-Gln cycle", leading to NMDARsover-activation, Ca2+ overload, and the calpain activation, which acceleratedNMDARs degradation. Meanwhile, the high expressions of phospho-p44/42 MAPK,phospho-p38 MAPK, phospho-CREB, and the high levels of caspase 3 and Bax/Bcl-2 finallyindicated the neuronal apoptosis after MeHg exposure. Pre-treatment with α-LA significantly preventedMeHg-induced neurotoxicity. In conclusion, the oxidative stress and synapticGlu dyshomeostasis contributed to MeHg-induced neuronal apoptosis. Alpha-LAattenuated these toxic effects through mechanisms of anti-oxidation andindirect Glu dyshomeostasis prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyao Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaofa Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
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40
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Suraweera CD, Anasir MI, Chugh S, Javorsky A, Impey RE, Hasan Zadeh M, Soares da Costa TP, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Structural insight into tanapoxvirus-mediated inhibition of apoptosis. FEBS J 2020; 287:3733-3750. [PMID: 32412687 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Premature programmed cell death or apoptosis of cells is a strategy utilized by multicellular organisms to counter microbial threats. Tanapoxvirus (TANV) is a large double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the poxviridae that causes mild monkeypox-like infections in humans and primates. TANV encodes for a putative apoptosis inhibitory protein 16L. We show that TANV16L is able to bind to a range of peptides spanning the BH3 motif of human proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins and is able to counter growth arrest of yeast induced by human Bak and Bax. We then determined the crystal structures of TANV16L bound to three identified interactors, Bax, Bim and Puma BH3. TANV16L adopts a globular Bcl-2 fold comprising 7 α-helices and utilizes the canonical Bcl-2 binding groove to engage proapoptotic host cell Bcl-2 proteins. Unexpectedly, TANV16L is able to adopt both a monomeric and a domain-swapped dimeric topology where the α1 helix from one protomer is swapped into a neighbouring unit. Despite adopting two different oligomeric forms, the canonical ligand binding groove in TANV16L remains unchanged from monomer to domain-swapped dimer. Our results provide a structural and mechanistic basis for tanapoxvirus-mediated inhibition of host cell apoptosis and reveal the capacity of Bcl-2 proteins to adopt differential oligomeric states whilst maintaining the canonical ligand binding groove in an unchanged state. DATABASE: Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) under the accession numbers 6TPQ, 6TQQ and 6TRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D Suraweera
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mohd Ishtiaq Anasir
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Srishti Chugh
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Airah Javorsky
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rachael E Impey
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mohammad Hasan Zadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tatiana P Soares da Costa
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark G Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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41
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Suraweera CD, Burton DR, Hinds MG, Kvansakul M. Crystal structures of the sheeppox virus encoded inhibitor of apoptosis SPPV14 bound to the proapoptotic BH3 peptides Hrk and Bax. FEBS Lett 2020; 594:2016-2026. [PMID: 32390192 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Programmed death of infected cells is used by multicellular organisms to counter viral infections. Sheeppox virus encodes for SPPV14, a potent inhibitor of Bcl-2-mediated apoptosis. We reveal the structural basis of apoptosis inhibition by determining crystal structures of SPPV14 bound to BH3 motifs of proapoptotic Bax and Hrk. The structures show that SPPV14 engages BH3 peptides using the canonical ligand-binding groove. Unexpectedly, Arg84 from SPPV14 forms an ionic interaction with the conserved Asp in the BH3 motif in a manner that replaces the canonical ionic interaction seen in almost all host Bcl-2:BH3 motif complexes. These results reveal the flexibility of virus-encoded Bcl-2 proteins to mimic key interactions from endogenous host signalling pathways to retain BH3 binding and prosurvival functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathura D Suraweera
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Denis R Burton
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Mark G Hinds
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Chen Y, Li R, Zhu Y, Zhong S, Qian J, Yang D, Jurczyszyn A, Beksac M, Gu C, Yang Y. Dihydroartemisinin Induces Growth Arrest and Overcomes Dexamethasone Resistance in Multiple Myeloma. Front Oncol 2020; 10:767. [PMID: 32500030 PMCID: PMC7242728 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of artemisinin (ART) for malaria treatment won the 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine, which inspired the rediscovery and development of ART for the treatment of other diseases including cancer. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effect of ART and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) on multiple myeloma (MM) cells including primary MM cells and in 5TMM3VT mouse model. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that DHA might be a more promising anti-MM agent with significantly improved efficacy compared to ART. Mechanistic analyses suggested that DHA activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by interacting with ferrous (Fe2+) ions and oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Intriguingly, DHA could reverse the upregulated expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) protein, a typical mitochondrial apoptotic marker, induced by dexamethasone (Dexa) in MM. We further demonstrated that DHA treatment could overcome Dexa resistance and enhance Dexa efficacy in MM. Additionally, DHA combined with Dexa resulted in increased ROS production and cytochrome C translocation from the mitochondria to the cytoplasm, resulting in alterations to the mitochondrial membrane potential and caspase-mediated apoptosis. In summary, our study demonstrated that DHA was superior to ART in MM treatment and overcame Dexa resistance both in vitro and in vivo, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for MM therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuqi Zhu
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Sixia Zhong
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinjun Qian
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongqing Yang
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Artur Jurczyszyn
- Department of Hematology, Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Meral Beksac
- Department of Hematology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Chunyan Gu
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye Yang
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory for Combination of Acupuncture and Chinese Materia Medica of Chinese Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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43
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Fitzsimmons L, Cartlidge R, Chang C, Sejic N, Galbraith LCA, Suraweera CD, Croom-Carter D, Dewson G, Tierney RJ, Bell AI, Shannon-Lowe C, Herold MJ, Rickinson AB, Colman PM, Huang DCS, Strasser A, Kvansakul M, Rowe M, Kelly GL. EBV BCL-2 homologue BHRF1 drives chemoresistance and lymphomagenesis by inhibiting multiple cellular pro-apoptotic proteins. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:1554-1568. [PMID: 31645677 PMCID: PMC7206097 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0435-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is ubiquitous in the adult population, is causally associated with human malignancies. Like many infectious agents, EBV has evolved strategies to block host cell death, including through expression of viral homologues of cellular BCL-2 pro-survival proteins (vBCL-2s), such as BHRF1. Small molecule inhibitors of the cellular pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins, termed 'BH3-mimetics', have entered clinical trials for blood cancers with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax already approved for treatment of therapy refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and acute myeloid leukaemia in the elderly. The generation of BH3-mimetics that could specifically target vBCL-2 proteins may be an attractive therapeutic option for virus-associated cancers, since these drugs would be expected to only kill virally infected cells with only minimal side effects on normal healthy tissues. To achieve this, a better understanding of the contribution of vBCL-2 proteins to tumorigenesis and insights into their biochemical functions is needed. In the context of Burkitt lymphoma (BL), BHRF1 expression conferred strong resistance to diverse apoptotic stimuli. Furthermore, BHRF1 expression in mouse haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells accelerated MYC-induced lymphoma development in a model of BL. BHRF1 interacts with the cellular pro-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins, BIM, BID, PUMA and BAK, but its capability to inhibit apoptosis could not be mapped solely to one of these interactions, suggesting plasticity is a key feature of BHRF1. Site-directed mutagenesis revealed a site in BHRF1 that was critical for its interaction with PUMA and blocking DNA-damage-induced apoptosis, identifying a potentially therapeutically targetable vulnerability in BHRF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Fitzsimmons
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Rachel Cartlidge
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Catherine Chang
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Nenad Sejic
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Laura C A Galbraith
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Chathura D Suraweera
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Deborah Croom-Carter
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Grant Dewson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Rosemary J Tierney
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew I Bell
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Clare Shannon-Lowe
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Marco J Herold
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Alan B Rickinson
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Peter M Colman
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - David C S Huang
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Marc Kvansakul
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Martin Rowe
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Gemma L Kelly
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.
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Vila-Julià G, Granadino-Roldán JM, Perez JJ, Rubio-Martinez J. Molecular Determinants for the Activation/Inhibition of Bak Protein by BH3 Peptides. J Chem Inf Model 2020; 60:1632-1643. [PMID: 31944696 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.9b01047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is a key cell death pathway in mammalian cells. Understanding this process and its regulation has been a subject of study in the last three decades. Members of the Bcl-2 family of proteins are involved in the regulation of apoptosis through mitochondrial poration with the subsequent initiation of apoptosis. Deregulation of proapoptotic proteins contributes to the progression of many tumor processes. Understanding how these pore-forming Bcl-2 proteins Bak and Bax are activated is key to find new anticancer treatments. As no drug capable of activating Bak has been disclosed yet, the study of the structural features of BH3 peptides-known as Bak activators-relevant for binding along with its binding energy decomposition analysis, becomes essential for designing novel small-molecule mimics of BH3. Interestingly, a BH3 Bim analogue-inactivating Bak has recently been discovered, opening a question on the molecular features that determine the functions of BH3 peptides. Therefore, the present work is aimed at understanding the way BH3 peptides activate or inactivate Bak in order to identify differential structural features that can be used in drug design. For this purpose, complexes of Bak with an activator and an inhibitor have been subjected to a molecular dynamics study. Structural differences were assessed by means of the fluctuations of the corresponding principal components. Moreover, the MMPB/GBSA approach was used to compute the binding free energy of the diverse complexes to identify those residues of the BH3 peptide that exhibit the larger contributions to complex formation. The results obtained in this work show differences between activators and inhibitors, both in structural and energetic terms, which can be used in the design of new molecules that can activate or inactivate proapoptotic Bak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillem Vila-Julià
- Department of Materials Science and Physical Chemistry, University of Barcelona and the Institut de Recerca en Quimica Teorica i Computacional (IQTCUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya- Barcelona Tech., Av. Diagonal, 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José M Granadino-Roldán
- Departamento de Química Física y Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad de Jaén, Campus "Las Lagunillas" s/n, 23071 Jaén, Spain
| | - Juan J Perez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya- Barcelona Tech., Av. Diagonal, 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Rubio-Martinez
- Department of Materials Science and Physical Chemistry, University of Barcelona and the Institut de Recerca en Quimica Teorica i Computacional (IQTCUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review highlights the importance of the Bcl-2 family members in lymphoma cell survival and discusses the approaches to modulate their function, directly or indirectly, to advance lymphoma therapeutics. RECENT FINDINGS The balance of cell death versus survival is ultimately leveraged at the mitochondria. Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) is the critical event that governs the release of pro-apoptotic molecules from the intermembrane mitochondrial space. MOMP is achieved through the coordinated actions of pro- and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member proteins. Recognition of functional alterations among the Bcl-2 family member proteins led to identification of tractable targets to combat hematologic malignancies. A new class of drugs, termed BH3 mimetics, was introduced in the clinic. Venetoclax, a Bcl-2 inhibitor, received regulatory approvals in therapy of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia. Alternative pro-survival Bcl-2 family proteins, in particular Mcl-1, have been successfully targeted in preclinical studies using novel-specific BH3 mimetics. Finally, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members may be targeted indirectly, via interference with the pro-survival signaling pathways, e.g., phosphoinotiside-3 kinase, B-cell receptor signaling, and NF-κB.
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The Bcl-2 Family: Ancient Origins, Conserved Structures, and Divergent Mechanisms. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010128. [PMID: 31940915 PMCID: PMC7022251 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic apoptosis, the response to intracellular cell death stimuli, is regulated by the interplay of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family and their membrane interactions. Bcl-2 proteins mediate a number of processes including development, homeostasis, autophagy, and innate and adaptive immune responses and their dysregulation underpins a host of diseases including cancer. The Bcl-2 family is characterized by the presence of conserved sequence motifs called Bcl-2 homology motifs, as well as a transmembrane region, which form the interaction sites and intracellular location mechanism, respectively. Bcl-2 proteins have been recognized in the earliest metazoans including Porifera (sponges), Placozoans, and Cnidarians (e.g., Hydra). A number of viruses have gained Bcl-2 homologs and subvert innate immunity and cellular apoptosis for their replication, but they frequently have very different sequences to their host Bcl-2 analogs. Though most mechanisms of apoptosis initiation converge on activation of caspases that destroy the cell from within, the numerous gene insertions, deletions, and duplications during evolution have led to a divergence in mechanisms of intrinsic apoptosis. Currently, the action of the Bcl-2 family is best understood in vertebrates and nematodes but new insights are emerging from evolutionarily earlier organisms. This review focuses on the mechanisms underpinning the activity of Bcl-2 proteins including their structures and interactions, and how they have changed over the course of evolution.
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Wang F, Zhang Z, Leung WT, Chen J, Yi J, Ying C, Yuan M, Wang M, Zhang N, Qiu X, Wang L, Wei H. Hydroxychloroquine reverses the drug resistance of leukemic K562/ADM cells by inhibiting autophagy. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:3883-3892. [PMID: 31485616 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is an essential metabolic pathway mediated by lysosomal degradation, which is involved in scavenging and recycling senescent or damaged organelles and biological macromolecules in eukaryotic cells. The present study explored the association between the autophagic activity and chemotherapy resistance of leukaemia cells, and the possibility of using autophagy inhibitors to combat leukemic drug resistance. It was found that the levels of basic autophagy in multidrug‑resistant leukaemia cells (K562/ADM) were significantly higher compared with sensitive cells (K562), and that Adriamycin (ADM) was capable of inducing autophagic activity in K562 and K562/ADM cells. K562 and K562/ADM cells were treated with a series of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) concentrations to inhibit cellular autophagy and detect cell sensitivity to ADM. The results demonstrated that the sensitivity of K562 cells to ADM was mildly enhanced by HCQ, and that the sensitivity of K562/ADM cells to ADM was markedly strengthened by HCQ. In addition, more typical morphological changes associated with apoptosis emerged, and the ratio of Bax/Bcl‑2 and activity of caspase‑3 were markedly increased in K562/ADM cells treated with HCQ. Notably, the expression of mdr1 mRNA and P‑glycoprotein (P‑gp) in drug‑resistant K562/ADM cells was upregulated along with increasing autophagic activity induced by ADM. Furthermore, HCQ significantly reduced the increase in P‑gp expression by inhibiting autophagic activity. Collectively, these findings indicated that the inhibition of autophagy significantly promoted the sensitivity of K562/ADM cells to ADM by facilitating apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy attenuated the expression of P‑gp; therefore, P‑gp may be involved in autophagic regulation in drug‑resistant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Zhewen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Wing Ting Leung
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Jing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Juan Yi
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Chunmei Ying
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Minmin Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Mingyan Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Na Zhang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Xuemin Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Ling Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Hulai Wei
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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Mitochondria as playmakers of apoptosis, autophagy and senescence. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 98:139-153. [PMID: 31154010 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are the key energy-producing organelles and cellular source of reactive species. They are responsible for managing cell life and death by a balanced homeostasis passing through a network of structures, regulated principally via fission and fusion. Herein we discuss about the most advanced findings considering mitochondria as dynamic biophysical systems playing compelling roles in the regulation of energy metabolism in both physiologic and pathologic processes controlling cell death and survival. Precisely, we focus on the mitochondrial commitment to the onset, maintenance and counteraction of apoptosis, autophagy and senescence in the bioenergetic reprogramming of cancer cells. In this context, looking for a pharmacological manipulation of cell death processes as a successful route for future targeted therapies, there is major biotechnological challenge in underlining the location, function and molecular mechanism of mitochondrial proteins. Based on the critical role of mitochondrial functions for cellular health, a better knowledge of the main molecular players in mitochondria disfunction could be decisive for the therapeutical control of degenerative diseases, including cancer.
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Clinical candidates modulating protein-protein interactions: The fragment-based experience. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 167:76-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.01.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Mallick DJ, Soderquist RS, Bates D, Eastman A. Confounding off-target effects of BH3 mimetics at commonly used concentrations: MIM1, UMI-77, and A-1210477. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:185. [PMID: 30796196 PMCID: PMC6385300 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1426-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Targeting anti-apoptotic BCL2 family proteins has become an attractive therapeutic strategy for many cancers, and the BCL2-selective inhibitor ABT-199 (venetoclax) has obtained clinical success. However, MCL1 can promote drug resistance and overall cancer cell survival. Thus, there is a critical need to develop an effective drug that antagonizes MCL1. However, most putative MCL1 inhibitors have been misclassified as they fail to directly inhibit MCL1 in cells, but rather induce the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA. We have investigated three putative MCL1 inhibitors: MIM1, UMI-77, and A-1210477. All three compounds were developed in cell-free assays and then found to be cytotoxic, and hence assumed to directly target MCL1 in cells. Here, we investigated whether these compounds directly inhibit MCL1 or inhibit MCL1 indirectly through the induction of NOXA. Both MIM1- and UMI-77-induced NOXA through the unfolded protein response pathway, and sensitized leukemia cells to ABT-199; this cytotoxicity was dependent on NOXA suggesting that these compounds do not directly target MCL1. A-1210477 was the only compound that did not induce NOXA, but it still sensitized cells to ABT-199. A-1210477 induced accumulation of MCL1 protein consistent with it binding and preventing MCL1 degradation. However, at concentrations used in several prior studies, A-1210477 also induced cytochrome c release, caspase activation, and apoptosis in a BAX/BAK-independent manner. Furthermore, the release of cytochrome c occurred without loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. This apoptosis was extremely rapid, sometimes occurring within 0.5-1 h. Hence, we have identified a novel mechanism of apoptosis that circumvents the known mechanisms of cytochrome c release. It remains to be determined whether these unexpected mechanisms of action of putative BH3 mimetics will have therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Mallick
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - Ryan S Soderquist
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Darcy Bates
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - Alan Eastman
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA. .,Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA.
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