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Dönges L, Damle A, Mainardi A, Bock T, Schönenberger M, Martin I, Barbero A. Engineered human osteoarthritic cartilage organoids. Biomaterials 2024; 308:122549. [PMID: 38554643 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The availability of human cell-based models capturing molecular processes of cartilage degeneration can facilitate development of disease-modifying therapies for osteoarthritis [1], a currently unmet clinical need. Here, by imposing specific inflammatory challenges upon mesenchymal stromal cells at a defined stage of chondrogenesis, we engineered a human organotypic model which recapitulates main OA pathological traits such as chondrocyte hypertrophy, cartilage matrix mineralization, enhanced catabolism and mechanical stiffening. To exemplify the utility of the model, we exposed the engineered OA cartilage organoids to factors known to attenuate pathological features, including IL-1Ra, and carried out mass spectrometry-based proteomics. We identified that IL-1Ra strongly reduced production of the transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta [2] and demonstrated that inhibition of the C/EBPβ-activating kinases could revert the degradative processes. Human OA cartilage organoids thus represent a relevant tool towards the discovery of new molecular drivers of cartilage degeneration and the assessment of therapeutics targeting associated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Dönges
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Atharva Damle
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Mainardi
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Bock
- Proteomics Core Facility, Biozentrum University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monica Schönenberger
- Nano Imaging Lab, Swiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Martin
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Andrea Barbero
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
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2
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Zhou X, Jiang S, Guo S, Yao S, Sheng Q, Zhang Q, Dong J, Liao L. C/EBPβ-Lin28a positive feedback loop triggered by C/EBPβ hypomethylation enhances the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells in restenosis. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024:00029330-990000000-01085. [PMID: 38809089 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main cause of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is the excessive proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Lin28a has been reported to play critical regulatory roles in this process. However, whether CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins β (C/EBPβ) binds to the Lin28a promoter and drives the progression of restenosis has not been clarified. Therefore, in the present study, we aim to clarify the role of C/EBPβ-Lin28a axis in restenosis. METHODS Restenosis and atherosclerosis rat models of type 2 diabetes (n = 20, for each group) were established by subjecting to PTA. Subsequently, the difference in DNA methylation status and expression of C/EBPβ between the two groups were assessed. EdU, Transwell, and rescue assays were performed to assess the effect of C/EBPβ on the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. DNA methylation status was further assessed using Methyltarget sequencing. The interaction between Lin28a and ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) was analysed using co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. Student's t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS C/EBPβ expression was upregulated and accompanied by hypomethylation of its promoter in restenosis when compared with atherosclerosis. In vitroC/EBPβ overexpression facilitated the proliferation and migration of VSMCs and was associated with increased Lin28a expression. Conversely, C/EBPβ knockdown resulted in the opposite effects. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays further demonstrated that C/EBPβ could directly bind to Lin28a promoter. Increased C/EBPβ expression and enhanced proliferation and migration of VSMCs were observed after decitabine treatment. Further, mechanical stretch promoted C/EBPβ and Lin28a expression accompanied by C/EBPβ hypomethylation. Additionally, Lin28a overexpression reduced C/EBPβ methylation via recruiting TET1 and enhanced C/EBPβ-mediated proliferation and migration of VSMCs. The opposite was noted in Lin28a knockdown cells. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the C/EBPβ-Lin28a axis is a driver of restenosis progression, and presents a promising therapeutic target for restenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, Shandong 250014, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Siyi Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Shuai Yao
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Qiqi Sheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lin Liao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, Shandong 250014, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, China
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3
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Pan L, Li C, Meng L, Zhang G, Zou L, Tian Y, Chen S, Sun Y, Su D, Zhang X, Xiong M, Xiao T, Xia D, Hong Z, Zhang Z. GDF1 ameliorates cognitive impairment induced by hearing loss. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:568-583. [PMID: 38491289 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00592-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, the mechanisms of hearing loss promoting the onset of AD are poorly understood. Here we show that hearing loss aggravates cognitive impairment in both wild-type mice and mouse models of AD. Embryonic growth/differentiation factor 1 (GDF1) is downregulated in the hippocampus of deaf mice. Knockdown of GDF1 mimics the detrimental effect of hearing loss on cognition, while overexpression of GDF1 in the hippocampus attenuates the cognitive impairment induced by deafness. Strikingly, overexpression of GDF1 also attenuates cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. GDF1 activates Akt, which phosphorylates asparagine endopeptidase and inhibits asparagine endopeptidase-induced synaptic degeneration and amyloid-β production. The expression of GDF1 is downregulated by the transcription factor CCAAT-enhancer binding protein-β. These findings indicate that hearing loss could promote AD pathological changes by inhibiting the GDF1 signaling pathway; thus, GDF1 may represent a therapeutic target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Pan
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunrui Li
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lanxia Meng
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoxin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zou
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sen Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Su
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Xiong
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Danhao Xia
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhengyuan Hong
- PET-CT/MRI Center, Molecular Imaging Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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4
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Nechanitzky R, Ramachandran P, Nechanitzky D, Li WY, Wakeham AC, Haight J, Saunders ME, Epelman S, Mak TW. CaSSiDI: novel single-cell "Cluster Similarity Scoring and Distinction Index" reveals critical functions for PirB and context-dependent Cebpb repression. Cell Death Differ 2024; 31:265-279. [PMID: 38383888 PMCID: PMC10923835 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-024-01268-8] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PirB is an inhibitory cell surface receptor particularly prominent on myeloid cells. PirB curtails the phenotypes of activated macrophages during inflammation or tumorigenesis, but its functions in macrophage homeostasis are obscure. To elucidate PirB-related functions in macrophages at steady-state, we generated and compared single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq) datasets obtained from myeloid cell subsets of wild type (WT) and PirB-deficient knockout (PirB KO) mice. To facilitate this analysis, we developed a novel approach to clustering parameter optimization called "Cluster Similarity Scoring and Distinction Index" (CaSSiDI). We demonstrate that CaSSiDI is an adaptable computational framework that facilitates tandem analysis of two scRNAseq datasets by optimizing clustering parameters. We further show that CaSSiDI offers more advantages than a standard Seurat analysis because it allows direct comparison of two or more independently clustered datasets, thereby alleviating the need for batch-correction while identifying the most similar and different clusters. Using CaSSiDI, we found that PirB is a novel regulator of Cebpb expression that controls the generation of Ly6Clo patrolling monocytes and the expansion properties of peritoneal macrophages. PirB's effect on Cebpb is tissue-specific since it was not observed in splenic red pulp macrophages (RPMs). However, CaSSiDI revealed a segregation of the WT RPM population into a CD68loIrf8+ "neuronal-primed" subset and an CD68hiFtl1+ "iron-loaded" subset. Our results establish the utility of CaSSiDI for single-cell assay analyses and the determination of optimal clustering parameters. Our application of CaSSiDI in this study has revealed previously unknown roles for PirB in myeloid cell populations. In particular, we have discovered homeostatic functions for PirB that are related to Cebpb expression in distinct macrophage subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Nechanitzky
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Providence Therapeutics Holdings Inc., Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Parameswaran Ramachandran
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Duygu Nechanitzky
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wanda Y Li
- Centre for Oncology and Immunology, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Andrew C Wakeham
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jillian Haight
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mary E Saunders
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Slava Epelman
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, UHN, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Departments of Immunology and Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tak W Mak
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Oncology and Immunology, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Pathology Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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5
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Fu M, Gao Q, Xiao M, Sun XY, Li SL, Ge XY. NAT10/CEBPB/vimentin signalling axis promotes adenoid cystic carcinoma malignant phenotypes in vitro. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38287502 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the biological function and mechanisms of CEBPB and NAT10-mediated N4-acetylcytidine (ac4c) modification in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC). MATERIALS AND METHODS CEBPB and NAT10 were knocked down in SACC-LM cells by siRNA transfection and overexpressed in SACC-83 cells by plasmid transfection. Malignant phenotypes were evaluated using CCK-8, Transwell migration and colony formation assays. Real-time PCR, western blotting, ChIP and acRIP were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved. RESULTS We found that CEBPB was highly expressed in SACC tissues and correlated with lung metastasis and unfavourable prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments revealed that CEBPB promoted SACC malignant phenotypes. Mechanistically, CEBPB exerted its oncogenic effect by binding to the vimentin gene promoter region to enhance its expression. Moreover, NAT10-mediated ac4c modification led to stabilization and overexpression of CEBPB in SACC cells. We also found that NAT10, the only known human enzyme responsible for ac4C modification, promoted SACC cell migration, proliferation and colony formation. Moreover, CEBPB overexpression restored the inhibitory effect of NAT10 knockdown on malignant phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals the critical role of the newly identified NAT10/CEBPB/vimentin axis in SACC malignant progression, and the findings may be applied to improve treatment for SACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Fu
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Beijing, PR China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Qian Gao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Mian Xiao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xin-Yi Sun
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Sheng-Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Beijing, PR China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xi-Yuan Ge
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Beijing, PR China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, PR China
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Huang B, Zhao W, Cai X, Zhu Y, Lu Y, Zhao J, Xiang N, Wang X, Deng H, Tang X, Liu L, Zhao Y, Shi Y. Expression and Activity of the Transcription Factor CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein β (C/EBPβ) Is Regulated by Specific Pulse-Modulated Radio Frequencies in Oligodendroglial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11131. [PMID: 37446309 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid growth of wireless electronic devices has raised concerns about the harmful effects of leaked electromagnetic radiation (EMR) on human health. Even though numerous studies have been carried out to explore the biological effects of EMR, no clear conclusions have been drawn about the effect of radio frequency (RF) EMR on oligodendrocytes. To this end, we exposed oligodendroglia and three other types of brain cells to 2.4 GHz EMR for 6 or 48 h at an average input power of 1 W in either a continuous wave (CW-RF) or a pulse-modulated wave (PW-RF, 50 Hz pulse frequency, 1/3 duty cycle) pattern. RNA sequencing, RT-qPCR, and Western blot were used to examine the expression of C/EBPβ and its related genes. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) was used to examine the levels of expression of C/EBPβ-interacting proteins. Our results showed that PW-RF EMR significantly increased the mRNA level of C/EBPβ in oligodendroglia but not in other types of cells. In addition, the expression of three isoforms and several interacting proteins and targeted genes of C/EBPβ were markedly changed after 6-h PW-RF but not CW-RF. Our results indicated that RF EMR regulated the expression and functions of C/EBPβ in a waveform- and cell-type-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Xin-Ling Road #22, Shantou 515041, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Weihao Zhao
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Xue Cai
- iMarker Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yumin Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Department of Maternal & Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yingxian Lu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Junli Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Nan Xiang
- iMarker Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Hu Deng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaping Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Lingyu Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yanyu Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yigong Shi
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Simigdala N, Chalari A, Sklirou AD, Chavdoula E, Papafotiou G, Melissa P, Kafalidou A, Paschalidis N, Pateras IS, Athanasiadis E, Konstantopoulos D, Trougakos IP, Klinakis A. Loss of Kmt2c in vivo leads to EMT, mitochondrial dysfunction and improved response to lapatinib in breast cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:100. [PMID: 36933062 PMCID: PMC10024673 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04734-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Deep sequencing of human tumours has uncovered a previously unappreciated role for epigenetic regulators in tumorigenesis. H3K4 methyltransferase KMT2C/MLL3 is mutated in several solid malignancies, including more than 10% of breast tumours. To study the tumour suppressor role of KMT2C in breast cancer, we generated mouse models of Erbb2/Neu, Myc or PIK3CA-driven tumorigenesis, in which the Kmt2c locus is knocked out specifically in the luminal lineage of mouse mammary glands using the Cre recombinase. Kmt2c knock out mice develop tumours earlier, irrespective of the oncogene, assigning a bona fide tumour suppressor role for KMT2C in mammary tumorigenesis. Loss of Kmt2c induces extensive epigenetic and transcriptional changes, which lead to increased ERK1/2 activity, extracellular matrix re-organization, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and mitochondrial dysfunction, the latter associated with increased reactive oxygen species production. Loss of Kmt2c renders the Erbb2/Neu-driven tumours more responsive to lapatinib. Publicly available clinical datasets revealed an association of low Kmt2c gene expression and better long-term outcome. Collectively, our findings solidify the role of KMT2C as a tumour suppressor in breast cancer and identify dependencies that could be therapeutically amenable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikiana Simigdala
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Chalari
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aimilia D. Sklirou
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Chavdoula
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH USA
| | - George Papafotiou
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Pelagia Melissa
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aimilia Kafalidou
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Paschalidis
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Pateras
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Medical School, “Attikon” University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Ioannis P. Trougakos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Klinakis
- Present Address: Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
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8
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Targeting Transcription Factors ATF5, CEBPB and CEBPD with Cell-Penetrating Peptides to Treat Brain and Other Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040581. [PMID: 36831248 PMCID: PMC9954556 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing novel therapeutics often follows three steps: target identification, design of strategies to suppress target activity and drug development to implement the strategies. In this review, we recount the evidence identifying the basic leucine zipper transcription factors ATF5, CEBPB, and CEBPD as targets for brain and other malignancies. We describe strategies that exploit the structures of the three factors to create inhibitory dominant-negative (DN) mutant forms that selectively suppress growth and survival of cancer cells. We then discuss and compare four peptides (CP-DN-ATF5, Dpep, Bpep and ST101) in which DN sequences are joined with cell-penetrating domains to create drugs that pass through tissue barriers and into cells. The peptide drugs show both efficacy and safety in suppressing growth and in the survival of brain and other cancers in vivo, and ST101 is currently in clinical trials for solid tumors, including GBM. We further consider known mechanisms by which the peptides act and how these have been exploited in rationally designed combination therapies. We additionally discuss lacunae in our knowledge about the peptides that merit further research. Finally, we suggest both short- and long-term directions for creating new generations of drugs targeting ATF5, CEBPB, CEBPD, and other transcription factors for treating brain and other malignancies.
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9
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Matherne MG, Phillips ES, Embrey SJ, Burke CM, Machado HL. Emerging functions of C/EBPβ in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1111522. [PMID: 36761942 PMCID: PMC9905667 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1111522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast tumorigenesis relies on complex interactions between tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment, orchestrated by tightly regulated transcriptional networks. C/EBPβ is a key transcription factor that regulates the proliferation and differentiation of multiple cell types and modulates a variety of biological processes such as tissue homeostasis and the immune response. In addition, C/EBPβ has well-established roles in mammary gland development, is overexpressed in breast cancer, and has tumor-promoting functions. In this review, we discuss context-specific roles of C/EBPβ during breast tumorigenesis, isoform-specific gene regulation, and regulation of the tumor immune response. We present challenges in C/EBPβ biology and discuss the importance of C/EBPβ isoform-specific gene regulation in devising new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan G. Matherne
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Emily S. Phillips
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Samuel J. Embrey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Caitlin M. Burke
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Heather L. Machado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States,*Correspondence: Heather L. Machado,
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10
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Miller JL, Kanke M, Rauner G, Bakhle KM, Sethupathy P, Van de Walle GR. Comparative Analysis of microRNAs that Stratify in vitro Mammary stem and Progenitor Activity Reveals Functionality of Human miR-92b-3p. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2022; 27:253-269. [PMID: 36190643 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-022-09525-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammary stem/progenitor cells are fundamental for mammary gland development and function. However, much remains to be elucidated regarding their function in mammals beyond the traditionally studied rodents, human, and to a lesser extent, ruminants. Due to the growing appreciation for microRNAs (miRNAs) as regulators of stem cells and their progenitors, we compared miRNA expression in mammary stem/progenitor cells from mammals with varying mammary stem/progenitor activity in vitro, in order to identify miRNA candidates that regulate stem/progenitor self-renewal and function. Mammosphere-derived epithelial cells (MDECs), which are primary cell lines enriched in mammary stem and progenitor cells, were generated from six mammalian species (i.e., cow, human, pig, horse, dog, and rat) and small RNA sequencing was performed. We identified 9 miRNAs that were significantly differentially expressed in MDEC cultures with a low versus high mammary stem/progenitor activity. miR-92b-3p was selected for functional follow-up studies, as this miRNA is understudied in primary mammary cells but has well-described gene targets that are known to regulate mammary stem/progenitor activity. Altering the expression of miR-92b-3p in MDECs from species with low stem/progenitor activity (human and cow) and those with high stem/progenitor activity (dog and rat) via inhibition and overexpression, respectively, resulted in significantly decreased mammosphere formation of human MDECs, but showed no significant effects in cow, dog, or rat MDECs. This study is the first to perform small RNA sequencing in MDECs from various mammals and highlights that conserved miRNAs can have different functions in mammary stem/progenitor cells across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Miller
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca , United States
| | - Matt Kanke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Gat Rauner
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca , United States
| | | | - Praveen Sethupathy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Gerlinde R Van de Walle
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca , United States.
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 14850, Ithaca, NY, USA.
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11
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Chen H, Chen C, Spanos M, Li G, Lu R, Bei Y, Xiao J. Exercise training maintains cardiovascular health: signaling pathways involved and potential therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:306. [PMID: 36050310 PMCID: PMC9437103 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01153-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise training has been widely recognized as a healthy lifestyle as well as an effective non-drug therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Functional and mechanistic studies that employ animal exercise models as well as observational and interventional cohort studies with human participants, have contributed considerably in delineating the essential signaling pathways by which exercise promotes cardiovascular fitness and health. First, this review summarizes the beneficial impact of exercise on multiple aspects of cardiovascular health. We then discuss in detail the signaling pathways mediating exercise's benefits for cardiovascular health. The exercise-regulated signaling cascades have been shown to confer myocardial protection and drive systemic adaptations. The signaling molecules that are necessary for exercise-induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy have the potential to attenuate myocardial injury and reverse cardiac remodeling. Exercise-regulated noncoding RNAs and their associated signaling pathways are also discussed in detail for their roles and mechanisms in exercise-induced cardioprotective effects. Moreover, we address the exercise-mediated signaling pathways and molecules that can serve as potential therapeutic targets ranging from pharmacological approaches to gene therapies in CVD. We also discuss multiple factors that influence exercise's effect and highlight the importance and need for further investigations regarding the exercise-regulated molecules as therapeutic targets and biomarkers for CVD as well as the cross talk between the heart and other tissues or organs during exercise. We conclude that a deep understanding of the signaling pathways involved in exercise's benefits for cardiovascular health will undoubtedly contribute to the identification and development of novel therapeutic targets and strategies for CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihua Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.,Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Michail Spanos
- Cardiovascular Division of the Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Guoping Li
- Cardiovascular Division of the Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Rong Lu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yihua Bei
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China. .,Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China. .,Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
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12
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C/EBPβ isoform-specific regulation of migration and invasion in triple-negative breast cancer cells. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:11. [PMID: 35042889 PMCID: PMC8766495 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-021-00372-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor C/EBPβ is a master regulator of mammary gland development and tissue remodelling during lactation. The CEBPB-mRNA is translated into three distinct protein isoforms named C/EBPβ-LAP1, -LAP2 and -LIP that are functionally different. The smaller isoform LIP lacks the N-terminal transactivation domains and is considered to act as an inhibitor of the transactivating LAP1/2 isoforms by competitive binding for the same DNA recognition sequences. Aberrantly high expression of LIP is associated with mammary epithelial proliferation and is found in grade III, estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptor-negative human breast cancer. Here, we show that reverting the high LIP/LAP ratios in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines into low LIP/LAP ratios by overexpression of LAP reduces migration and matrix invasion of these TNBC cells. In addition, in untransformed MCF10A human mammary epithelial cells overexpression of LIP stimulates migration. Knockout of CEBPB in TNBC cells where LIP expression prevails, resulted in strongly reduced migration that was accompanied by a downregulation of genes involved in cell migration, extracellular matrix production and cytoskeletal remodelling, many of which are epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker genes. Together, this study suggests that the LIP/LAP ratio is involved in regulating breast cancer cell migration and invasion. This study together with studies from others shows that understanding the functions the C/EBPβ-isoforms in breast cancer development may reveal new avenues of treatment.
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13
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AlSudais H, Wiper-Bergeron N. From quiescence to repair: C/EBPβ as a regulator of muscle stem cell function in health and disease. FEBS J 2021; 289:6518-6530. [PMID: 34854237 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CCAAT/Enhancer Binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) is a transcriptional regulator involved in numerous physiological processes. Herein, we describe a role for C/EBPβ as a regulator of skeletal muscle stem cell function. In particular, C/EBPβ is expressed in muscle stem cells in healthy muscle where it inhibits myogenic differentiation. Downregulation of C/EBPβ expression at the protein and transcriptional level allows for differentiation. Persistence of C/EBPβ promotes stem cell self-renewal and C/EBPβ expression is required for mitotic quiescence in this cell population. As a critical regulator of skeletal muscle homeostasis, C/EBPβ expression is stimulated in pathological conditions such as cancer cachexia, which perturbs muscle regeneration and promotes myofiber atrophy in the context of systemic inflammation. C/EBPβ is also an important regulator of cytokine expression and immune response genes, a mechanism by which it can influence muscle stem cell function. In this viewpoint, we describe a role for C/EBPβ in muscle stem cells and propose a functional intersection between C/EBPβ and NF-kB action in the regulation of cancer cachexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamood AlSudais
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadine Wiper-Bergeron
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
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