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Zeng X, Feng M, Lu J, Wang R, Deng L, Yang Y, Luo L. Beyond transcription, aryl hydrocarbon receptor plays a protective role in periodontitis by interacting with CaMKII. J Periodontol 2024. [PMID: 38967396 DOI: 10.1002/jper.24-0021] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been studied as an intracellular pattern recognition receptor that can identify bacterial pigments. To identify a potential therapeutic target for periodontitis, we investigated the expression of AhR in periodontitis and its role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. METHODS First, we analyzed AhR expression in a single-cell dataset from human periodontal tissue. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were used to verify the AhR level. Later, we determined the phenotypes of ligature-induced periodontitis in myeloid-specific AhR-deficient mice (Lyz2-Cre+/- AhRfx/fx), after which RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the impacts of AhR on periodontitis and its mechanism. Finally, we determined the therapeutic effect of AhR agonist 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) administration on murine periodontitis and verified the effects of FICZ on macrophage polarization in vitro. RESULTS AhR expression was enhanced in macrophages from periodontitis patients. Deletion of AhR from macrophages aggravated ligature-induced periodontitis and promoted the inflammatory response. Calcium/calmodulin-stimulated protein kinase II (CaMKII) phosphorylation was accelerated in AhR-deficient macrophages. Inhibiting CaMKII phosphorylation ameliorated periodontitis in Lyz2-Cre+/- AhRfx/fx mice. FICZ treatment blocked alveolar bone loss and relieved periodontal inflammation. FICZ diminished M1 macrophage polarization and promoted M2 macrophage polarization upon M1 macrophage induction. CONCLUSION AhR played a protective role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis by orchestrating macrophage polarization via interacting with the CaMKII signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuwen Zeng
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (Institute for Research and Innovation in Health), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- IBMC - Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Meiting Feng
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiawei Lu
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruiling Wang
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Deng
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Yang
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijun Luo
- Department of Periodontology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
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Silverberg JI, Boguniewicz M, Quintana FJ, Clark RA, Gross L, Hirano I, Tallman AM, Brown PM, Fredericks D, Rubenstein DS, McHale KA. Tapinarof validates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a therapeutic target: A clinical review. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 154:1-10. [PMID: 38154665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that has wide-ranging roles, including regulation of inflammation and homeostasis. AhR is not a cell surface receptor; rather, it exists in a cytoplasmic complex that responds to a wide variety of structurally dissimilar endogenous, microbial, and environmental ligands. The ubiquitous expression of AhR, its ability to be activated by a wide range of ligands, and its capacity to act as a master regulator for gene expression and homeostasis make it a promising new therapeutic target. Clinical trials of tapinarof cream have now validated AhR agonism as a therapeutic approach that can deliver significant efficacy for treating inflammatory skin diseases, including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Tapinarof 1% cream is a first-in-class, nonsteroidal, topical, AhR agonist with a pharmacokinetic profile that results in localized exposure at sites of disease, avoiding systemic safety concerns, drug interactions, or off-target effects. Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis both involve epidermal inflammation, cellular immune responses, dysregulation of skin barrier protein expression, and oxidative stress. On the basis of the clinical effectiveness of tapinarof cream for treating inflammatory skin diseases, we review how targeting AhR may offer a significant opportunity in other conditions that share key aspects of pathogenesis, including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, ophthalmic, and nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Boguniewicz
- Division of Allergy-Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, National Jewish Health and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colo
| | - Francisco J Quintana
- Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | | | - Lara Gross
- Dallas Allergy and Asthma Center, and the Allergy and Immunology Division, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - Ikuo Hirano
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
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Riaz F, Pan F, Wei P. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor: The master regulator of immune responses in allergic diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1057555. [PMID: 36601108 PMCID: PMC9806217 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1057555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a widely studied ligand-activated cytosolic transcriptional factor that has been associated with the initiation and progression of various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancers, metabolic syndromes, and allergies. Generally, AhR responds and binds to environmental toxins/ligands, dietary ligands, and allergens to regulate toxicological, biological, cellular responses. In a canonical signaling manner, activation of AhR is responsible for the increase in cytochrome P450 enzymes which help individuals to degrade and metabolize these environmental toxins and ligands. However, canonical signaling cannot be applied to all the effects mediated by AhR. Recent findings indicate that activation of AhR signaling also interacts with some non-canonical factors like Kruppel-like-factor-6 (KLF6) or estrogen-receptor-alpha (Erα) to affect the expression of downstream genes. Meanwhile, enormous research has been conducted to evaluate the effect of AhR signaling on innate and adaptive immunity. It has been shown that AhR exerts numerous effects on mast cells, B cells, macrophages, antigen-presenting cells (APCs), Th1/Th2 cell balance, Th17, and regulatory T cells, thus, playing a significant role in allergens-induced diseases. This review discussed how AhR mediates immune responses in allergic diseases. Meanwhile, we believe that understanding the role of AhR in immune responses will enhance our knowledge of AhR-mediated immune regulation in allergic diseases. Also, it will help researchers to understand the role of AhR in regulating immune responses in autoimmune diseases, cancers, metabolic syndromes, and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq Riaz
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Fan Pan
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Ping Wei, ; Fan Pan,
| | - Ping Wei
- Department of Otolaryngology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, China,*Correspondence: Ping Wei, ; Fan Pan,
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An overview of aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands in the Last two decades (2002–2022): A medicinal chemistry perspective. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114845. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Wu J, Pang T, Lin Z, Zhao M, Jin H. The key player in the pathogenesis of environmental influence of systemic lupus erythematosus: Aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Front Immunol 2022; 13:965941. [PMID: 36110860 PMCID: PMC9468923 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.965941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor was previously known as an environmental receptor that modulates the cellular response to external environmental changes. In essence, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor is a cytoplasmic receptor and transcription factor that is activated by binding to the corresponding ligands, and they transmit relevant information by binding to DNA, thereby activating the transcription of various genes. Therefore, we can understand the development of certain diseases and discover new therapeutic targets by studying the regulation and function of AhR. Several autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), have been connected to AhR in previous studies. SLE is a classic autoimmune disease characterized by multi-organ damage and disruption of immune tolerance. We discuss here the homeostatic regulation of AhR and its ligands among various types of immune cells, pathophysiological roles, in addition to the roles of various related cytokines and signaling pathways in the occurrence and development of SLE.
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Miret NV, Zárate LV, Díaz FE, Agustina Leguizamón M, Pontillo CA, Chiappini FA, Ceballos L, Geffner J, Randi AS. Extracellular acidosis stimulates breast cancer cell motility through aryl hydrocarbon receptor and c-Src kinase activation. J Cell Biochem 2022; 123:1197-1206. [PMID: 35538691 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30275] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
A reduction in extracellular pH (pHe) is a characteristic of most malignant tumors. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor localized in a cytosolic complex with c-Src, which allows it to trigger non-genomic effects through c-Src. Considering that the slightly acidic tumor microenvironment promotes breast cancer progression in a similar way to the AhR/c-Src axis, our aim was to evaluate whether this pathway could be activated by low pHe. We examined the effect of pHe 6.5 on AhR/c-Src axis using two breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and LM3) and mammary epithelial cells (NMuMG) and found that acidosis increased c-Src phosphorylation only in tumor cells. Moreover, the presence of AhR inhibitors prevented c-Src activation. Low pHe reduced intracellular pH (pHi), while amiloride treatment, which is known to reduce pHi, induced c-Src phosphorylation through AhR. Analyses were conducted on cell migration and metalloproteases (MMP)-2 and -9 activities, with results showing an acidosis-induced increase in MDA-MB-231 and LM3 cell migration and MMP-9 activity, but no changes in NMuMG cells. Moreover, all these effects were blocked by AhR and c-Src inhibitors. In conclusion, acidosis stimulates the AhR/c-Src axis only in breast cancer cells, increasing cell migration and MMP-9 activity. Although the AhR activation mechanism still remains elusive, a reduction in pHi may be thought to be involved. These findings suggest a critical role for the AhR/c-Src axis in breast tumor progression stimulated by an acidic microenvironment. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia V Miret
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lorena V Zárate
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Erra Díaz
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y SIDA (CONICET), Paraguay 2155, 11° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Agustina Leguizamón
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina A Pontillo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia A Chiappini
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Ceballos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Geffner
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y SIDA (CONICET), Paraguay 2155, 11° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea S Randi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5° piso, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Vogeley C, Rolfes KM, Krutmann J, Haarmann-Stemmann T. The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in the Pathogenesis of Environmentally-Induced Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Skin. Front Oncol 2022; 12:841721. [PMID: 35311158 PMCID: PMC8927079 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.841721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most frequent malignancies in humans and academia as well as public authorities expect a further increase of its incidence in the next years. The major risk factor for the development of SCC of the general population is the repeated and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Another important risk factor, in particular with regards to occupational settings, is the chronic exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which are formed during incomplete combustion of organic material and thus can be found in coal tar, creosote, bitumen and related working materials. Importantly, both exposomal factors unleash their carcinogenic potential, at least to some extent, by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The AHR is a ligand-dependent transcription factor and key regulator in xenobiotic metabolism and immunity. The AHR is expressed in all cutaneous cell-types investigated so far and maintains skin integrity. We and others have reported that in response to a chronic exposure to environmental stressors, in particular UV radiation and PAHs, an activation of AHR and downstream signaling pathways critically contributes to the development of SCC. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about AHR's role in skin carcinogenesis and focus on its impact on defense mechanisms, such as DNA repair, apoptosis and anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, we discuss the possible consequences of a simultaneous exposure to different AHR-stimulating environmental factors for the development of cutaneous SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Vogeley
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina M Rolfes
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jean Krutmann
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Sabuz Vidal O, Deepika D, Schuhmacher M, Kumar V. EDC-induced mechanisms of immunotoxicity: a systematic review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2022; 51:634-652. [PMID: 35015608 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2021.2009438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) refer to a group of chemicals that cause adverse effects in human health, impairing hormone production and regulation, resulting in alteration of homeostasis, reproductive, and developmental, and immune system impairments. The immunotoxicity of EDCs involves many mechanisms altering gene expression that depend on the activation of nuclear receptors such as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), the estrogen receptor (ER), and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), which also results in skin and intestinal disorders, microbiota alterations and inflammatory diseases. This systematic review aims to review different mechanisms of immunotoxicity and immunomodulation of T cells, focusing on T regulatory (Treg) and Th17 subsets, B cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) caused by specific EDCs such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), bisphenols (BPs) and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). To achieve this objective, a systematic study was conducted searching various databases including PubMed and Scopus to find in-vitro, in-vivo, and biomonitoring studies that examine EDC-dependent mechanisms of immunotoxicity. While doing the systematic review, we found species- and cell-specific outcomes and a translational gap between in-vitro and in-vivo experiments. Finally, an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework is proposed, which explains mechanistically toxicity endpoints emerging from different EDCs having similar key events and can help to improve our understanding of EDCs mechanisms of immunotoxicity. In conclusion, this review provides insights into the mechanisms of immunotoxicity mediated by EDCs and will help to improve human health risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Sabuz Vidal
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Deepika Deepika
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.,IISPV, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Reus, Spain
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Vogeley C, Sondermann NC, Woeste S, Momin AA, Gilardino V, Hartung F, Heinen M, Maaß SK, Mescher M, Pollet M, Rolfes KM, Vogel CFA, Rossi A, Lang D, Arold ST, Nakamura M, Haarmann-Stemmann T. Unraveling the differential impact of PAHs and dioxin-like compounds on AKR1C3 reveals the EGFR extracellular domain as a critical determinant of the AHR response. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 158:106989. [PMID: 34991250 PMCID: PMC8852774 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) and structurally-related environmental pollutants may contribute to the pathogenesis of various diseases and disorders, primarily by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and modulating downstream cellular responses. Accordingly, AHR is considered an attractive molecular target for preventive and therapeutic measures. However, toxicological risk assessment of AHR-modulating compounds as well as drug development is complicated by the fact that different ligands elicit remarkably different AHR responses. By elucidating the differential effects of PAHs and DLCs on aldo-keto reductase 1C3 expression and associated prostaglandin D2 metabolism, we here provide evidence that the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) substantially shapes AHR ligand-induced responses in human epithelial cells, i.e. primary and immortalized keratinocytes and breast cancer cells. Exposure to benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 126 resulted in a rapid c-Src-mediated phosphorylation of EGFR. Moreover, both AHR agonists stimulated protein kinase C activity and enhanced the ectodomain shedding of cell surface-bound EGFR ligands. However, only upon B[a]P treatment, this process resulted in an auto-/paracrine activation of EGFR and a subsequent induction of aldo-keto reductase 1C3 and 11-ketoreduction of prostaglandin D2. Receptor binding and internalization assays, docking analyses and mutational amino acid exchange confirmed that DLCs, but not B[a]P, bind to the EGFR extracellular domain, thereby blocking EGFR activation by growth factors. Finally, nanopore long-read RNA-seq revealed hundreds of genes, whose expression is regulated by B[a]P, but not by PCB126, and sensitive towards pharmacological EGFR inhibition. Our data provide novel mechanistic insights into the ligand response of AHR signaling and identify EGFR as an effector of environmental chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Vogeley
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Natalie C Sondermann
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Selina Woeste
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Afaque A Momin
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Viola Gilardino
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Frederick Hartung
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Markus Heinen
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sophia K Maaß
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Melina Mescher
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marius Pollet
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina M Rolfes
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph F A Vogel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology and Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Andrea Rossi
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dieter Lang
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals, Research Center, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Stefan T Arold
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Centre de Biologie Structurale (CBS), INSERM, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, F-34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Motoki Nakamura
- IUF - Leibniz-Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Department of Environmental and Geriatric Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan
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Plant Occurring Flavonoids as Modulators of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26082315. [PMID: 33923487 PMCID: PMC8073824 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor deeply implicated in health and diseases. Historically identified as a sensor of xenobiotics and mainly toxic substances, AhR has recently become an emerging pharmacological target in cancer, immunology, inflammatory conditions, and aging. Multiple AhR ligands are recognized, with plant occurring flavonoids being the largest group of natural ligands of AhR in the human diet. The biological implications of the modulatory effects of flavonoids on AhR could be highlighted from a toxicological and environmental concern and for the possible pharmacological applicability. Overall, the possible AhR-mediated harmful and/or beneficial effects of flavonoids need to be further investigated, since in many cases they are contradictory. Similar to other AhR modulators, flavonoids commonly exhibit tissue, organ, and species-specific activities on AhR. Such cellular-context dependency could be probably beneficial in their pharmacotherapeutic use. Flavones, flavonols, flavanones, and isoflavones are the main subclasses of flavonoids reported as AhR modulators. Some of the structural features of these groups of flavonoids that could be influencing their AhR effects are herein summarized. However, limited generalizations, as well as few outright structure-activity relationships can be suggested on the AhR agonism and/or antagonism caused by flavonoids.
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Singleman C, Holtzman NG. PCB and TCDD derived embryonic cardiac defects result from a novel AhR pathway. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 233:105794. [PMID: 33662880 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) are environmental contaminants known to impact cardiac development, a key step in the embryonic development of most animals. To date, little is understood of the molecular mechanism driving the observed cardiac defects in exposed fishes. The literature shows PCB & TCDD derived cardiac defects are concurrent with, but not caused by, expression of cyp1A, due to activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) gene activation pathway. However, in this study, detailed visualization of fish hearts exposed to PCBs and TCDD show that, in addition to a failure of cardiac looping in early heart development, the inner endocardial lining of the heart fails to maintain proper cell adhesion and tissue integrity. The resulting gap between the endocardium and myocardium in both zebrafish and Atlantic sturgeon suggested functional faults in endothelial adherens junction formation. Thus, we explored the molecular mechanism triggering cardiac defects using immunohistochemistry to identify the location and phosphorylation state of key regulatory and adhesion molecules. We hypothesized that PCB and TCDD activates AhR, phosphorylating Src, which then phosphorylates the endothelial adherens junction protein, VEcadherin. When phosphorylated, VEcadherin dimers, found in the endocardium and vasculature, separate, reducing tissue integrity. In zebrafish, treatment with PCB and TCDD contaminants leads to higher phosphorylation of VEcadherin in cardiac tissue suggesting that these cells have reduced connectivity. Small molecule inhibition of Src phosphorylation prevents contaminant stimulated phosphorylation of VEcadherin and rescues both cardiac function and gross morphology. Atlantic sturgeon hearts show parallels to contaminant exposed zebrafish cardiac phenotype at the tissue level. These data suggest that the mechanism for PCB and TCDD action in the heart is, in part, distinct from the canonical mechanism described in the literature and that cardiac defects are impacted by this nongenomic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Singleman
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Queens NY 11367-1597, USA; The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Nathalia G Holtzman
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Queens NY 11367-1597, USA; The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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Großkopf H, Walter K, Karkossa I, von Bergen M, Schubert K. Non-Genomic AhR-Signaling Modulates the Immune Response in Endotoxin-Activated Macrophages After Activation by the Environmental Stressor BaP. Front Immunol 2021; 12:620270. [PMID: 33868237 PMCID: PMC8045971 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.620270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging studies revealed that the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a receptor sensing environmental contaminants, is executing an immunomodulatory function. However, it is an open question to which extent this is achieved by its role as a transcription factor or via non-genomic signaling. We utilized a multi-post-translational modification-omics approach to examine non-genomic AhR-signaling after activation with endogenous (FICZ) or exogenous (BaP) ligand in endotoxin-activated (LPS) monocyte-derived macrophages. While AhR activation affected abundances of few proteins, regulation of ubiquitination and phosphorylation were highly pronounced. Although the number and strength of effects depended on the applied AhR-ligand, both ligands increased ubiquitination of Rac1, which participates in PI3K/AKT-pathway-dependent macrophage activation, resulting in a pro-inflammatory phenotype. In contrast, co-treatment with ligand and LPS revealed a decreased AKT activity mediating an anti-inflammatory effect. Thus, our data show an immunomodulatory effect of AhR activation through a Rac1ubiquitination-dependent mechanism that attenuated AKT-signaling, resulting in a mitigated inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Großkopf
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katharina Walter
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Isabel Karkossa
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin von Bergen
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristin Schubert
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
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13
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Vogel CFA, Lazennec G, Kado SY, Dahlem C, He Y, Castaneda A, Ishihara Y, Vogeley C, Rossi A, Haarmann-Stemmann T, Jugan J, Mori H, Borowsky AD, La Merrill MA, Sweeney C. Targeting the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling Pathway in Breast Cancer Development. Front Immunol 2021; 12:625346. [PMID: 33763068 PMCID: PMC7982668 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.625346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) through environmental exposure to known human carcinogens including dioxins can lead to the promotion of breast cancer. While the repressor protein of the AhR (AhRR) blocks the canonical AhR pathway, the function of AhRR in the development of breast cancer is not well-known. In the current study we examined the impact of suppressing AhR activity using its dedicated repressor protein AhRR. AhRR is a putative tumor suppressor and is silenced in several cancer types, including breast, where its loss correlates with shorter patient survival. Using the AhRR transgenic mouse, we demonstrate that AhRR overexpression opposes AhR-driven and inflammation-induced growth of mammary tumors in two different murine models of breast cancer. These include a syngeneic model using E0771 mammary tumor cells as well as the Polyoma Middle T antigen (PyMT) transgenic model. Further AhRR overexpression or knockout of AhR in human breast cancer cells enhanced apoptosis induced by chemotherapeutics and inhibited the growth of mouse mammary tumor cells. This study provides the first in vivo evidence that AhRR suppresses mammary tumor development and suggests that strategies which lead to its functional restoration and expression may have therapeutic benefit.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Genetically Modified
- Antigens, Polyomavirus Transforming/genetics
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Apoptosis
- Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factors/genetics
- Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Cell Proliferation
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Etoposide/pharmacology
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- MCF-7 Cells
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/genetics
- Receptors, Aryl Hydrocarbon/metabolism
- Repressor Proteins/genetics
- Repressor Proteins/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Time Factors
- Tumor Burden
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph F. A. Vogel
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | | | - Sarah Y. Kado
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Carla Dahlem
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Yi He
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Alejandro Castaneda
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Yasuhiro Ishihara
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Christian Vogeley
- Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Juliann Jugan
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Hidetoshi Mori
- Center for Comparative Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Alexander D. Borowsky
- Center for Comparative Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Michele A. La Merrill
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Colleen Sweeney
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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14
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Karkossa I, Raps S, von Bergen M, Schubert K. Systematic Review of Multi-Omics Approaches to Investigate Toxicological Effects in Macrophages. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9371. [PMID: 33317022 PMCID: PMC7764599 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Insights into the modes of action (MoAs) of xenobiotics are of utmost importance for the definition of adverse outcome pathways (AOPs), which are essential for a mechanism-based risk assessment. A well-established strategy to reveal MoAs of xenobiotics is the use of omics. However, often an even more comprehensive approach is needed, which can be achieved using multi-omics. Since the immune system plays a central role in the defense against foreign substances and pathogens, with the innate immune system building a first barrier, we systematically reviewed multi-omics studies investigating the effects of xenobiotics on macrophages. Surprisingly, only nine publications were identified, combining proteomics with transcriptomics or metabolomics. We summarized pathways and single proteins, transcripts, or metabolites, which were described to be affected upon treatment with xenobiotics in the reviewed studies, thus revealing a broad range of effects. In summary, we show that macrophages are a relevant model system to investigate the toxicological effects induced by xenobiotics. Furthermore, the multi-omics approaches led to a more comprehensive overview compared to only one omics layer with slight advantages for combinations that complement each other directly, e.g., proteome and metabolome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Karkossa
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research—UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (I.K.); (S.R.); (M.v.B.)
| | - Stefanie Raps
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research—UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (I.K.); (S.R.); (M.v.B.)
| | - Martin von Bergen
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research—UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (I.K.); (S.R.); (M.v.B.)
- Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristin Schubert
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research—UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (I.K.); (S.R.); (M.v.B.)
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15
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Li Y, Zhou C, Lei W, Wang K, Zheng J. Roles of aryl hydrocarbon receptor in endothelial angiogenic responses†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:927-937. [PMID: 32716482 PMCID: PMC7731988 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor, which can be activated by a plethora of structure-diverse ligands. Historically, AhR is known for its involvements in regulation of metabolism of xenobiotics. However, normal physiological roles of AhR have been defined in other essential biological processes, including vascular growth and function, reproduction, and immunoresponses. In contrast, aberrant expression and activation of the AhR signaling pathway occur in a variety of human diseases, many of which (e.g., preeclampsia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension) could be associated with endothelial dysfunction. Indeed, emerging evidence has shown that either exogenous or endogenous AhR ligands can induce endothelial dysfunction in either an AhR-dependent or AhR-independent manner, possibly reliant on the blood vessel origin (artery and vein) of endothelial cells. Given that the AhR signaling pathway has broad impacts on endothelial and cardiovascular function, AhR ligands, AhR, and their downstream genes could be considered novel therapeutic targets for those endothelial-related diseases. This review will discuss the current knowledge of AhR's mediation on endothelial function and potential mechanisms underlying these actions with a focus on placental endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Chi Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Wei Lei
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
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16
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Park R, Madhavaram S, Ji JD. The Role of Aryl-Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in Osteoclast Differentiation and Function. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102294. [PMID: 33066667 PMCID: PMC7602422 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that plays a crucial role in bone remodeling through altering the interplay between bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts. While effects of AhR signaling in osteoblasts are well understood, the role and mechanism of AhR signaling in regulating osteoclastogenesis is not widely understood. AhR, when binding with exogenous ligands (environmental pollutants such as polycylic aryl hydrocarbon (PAH), dioxins) or endogenous ligand indoxyl-sulfate (IS), has dual functions that are mediated by the nature of the binding ligand, binding time, and specific pathways of distinct ligands. In this review, AhR is discussed with a focus on (i) the role of AhR in osteoclast differentiation and function and (ii) the mechanisms of AhR signaling in inhibiting or promoting osteoclastogenesis. These findings facilitate an understanding of the role of AhR in the functional regulation of osteoclasts and in osteoclast-induced bone destructive conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Park
- MetroWest Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, Framingham, MA 01702, USA; (R.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Shreya Madhavaram
- MetroWest Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, Framingham, MA 01702, USA; (R.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Jong Dae Ji
- Department of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Correspondence:
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17
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Chang YD, Li CH, Tsai CH, Cheng YW, Kang JJ, Lee CC. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor deficiency enhanced airway inflammation and remodeling in a murine chronic asthma model. FASEB J 2020; 34:15300-15313. [PMID: 32959404 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001529r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent-activated transcriptional factor that regulates the metabolism of xenobiotic and endogenous compounds. Recent studies have shown that AhR is a novel master regulator of the mucosal immune system, including lungs and intestine. To elucidate the role of AhR in chronic severe asthma, AhR wild-type and knockout mice (AhR-/- ) were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin for 4 weeks. To uncover the underlying mechanisms, inflammatory cells profile and cytokines production were analyzed in bronchial lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue. Compared to wild-type mice, AhR-/- mice had exacerbated asthma symptoms, including airway inflammation, mucus production, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway remodeling. BALF monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and lymphocytes were all enhanced in OVA-immunized AhR-/- mice. In OVA-immunized AhR-/- mice, T helper (Th) 17 cell-specific cytokine IL-17A, as well as airway remodeling factors, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were all enhanced in lung tissue. Moreover, human cohort studies showed that AhR gene expression in bronchial epithelial cells decreases in severe asthma patients. Loss of AhR leads to worsening of allergic asthma symptoms, indicating its importance in maintaining normal lung function and mediating disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Di Chang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, China Medicine University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hao Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hao Tsai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jaw-Jou Kang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Chen Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, China Medicine University, Taichung, Taiwan
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18
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Xiong J, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Wu B, Fang L, Wang N, Yi H, Chang N, Chen L, Zhang J. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor mediates Jak2/STAT3 signaling for non-small cell lung cancer stem cell maintenance. Exp Cell Res 2020; 396:112288. [PMID: 32941808 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.112288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in shaping the invasive cancer phenotype by contributing to tumor initiation, metastasis, relapse, and therapeutic resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand activated transcription factor, which is well known for mediating the toxicity and tumorigenesis of a variety of environmental pollutants, has been extensively recognized as an important mediator in NSCLC development. Here, evidence showed that AhR was overexpressed in NSCLC tissues, and a high AhR protein level was associated with an aggressive tumor phenotype. Knockdown of AhR suppressed cell proliferation, invasion and migration, as well as CSC-like properties, while upregulation and activation of AhR enhanced CSC-like properties and increased stem cell-associated gene expression in NSCLC cells. Elevated and activated AhR leads to phosphorylation of janus kinase 2 (Jak2), as well as its downstream effector, activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), while inhibition of Jak2/STAT3 signaling by pharmacologic approach attenuates the effects of AhR-mediated NSCLC cell stemness, suggesting a role for the Jak2/STAT3 pathway in AhR-regulated NSCLC stemness. In summary, our study uncovers a transcriptional-independent mechanism of AhR through which AhR mediates NSCLC stemness via Jak2/STAT3 signaling pathway, indicating a promising target for the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xiong
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China; Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Liang Fang
- Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Hongyu Yi
- Center for Infectious Disease, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ning Chang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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19
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Indoximod opposes the immunosuppressive effects mediated by IDO and TDO via modulation of AhR function and activation of mTORC1. Oncotarget 2020; 11:2438-2461. [PMID: 32637034 PMCID: PMC7321702 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoximod has shaped our understanding of the biology of IDO1 in the control of immune responses, though its mechanism of action has been poorly understood. Previous studies demonstrated that indoximod creates a tryptophan (Trp) sufficiency signal that reactivates mTOR in the context of low Trp concentrations, thus opposing the effects caused by IDO1. Here we extend the understanding of indoximod’s mechanism of action by showing that it has pleiotropic effects on immune regulation. Indoximod can have a direct effect on T cells, increasing their proliferation as a result of mTOR reactivation. Further, indoximod modulates the differentiation of CD4+ T cells via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which controls transcription of several genes in response to different ligands including kynurenine (Kyn). Indoximod increases the transcription of RORC while inhibiting transcription of FOXP3, thus favoring differentiation to IL-17-producing helper T cells and inhibiting the differentiation of regulatory T cells. These indoximod-driven effects on CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were independent from the activity of IDO/TDO and from the presence of exogenous Kyn, though they do oppose the effects of Kyn produced by these Trp catabolizing enzymes. Indoximod can also downregulate expression of IDO protein in vivo in murine lymph node dendritic cells and in vitro in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells via a mechanism that involves signaling through the AhR. Together, these data improve the understanding of how indoximod influences the effects of IDO, beyond and distinct from direct enzymatic inhibition of the enzyme.
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20
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Manni G, Mondanelli G, Scalisi G, Pallotta MT, Nardi D, Padiglioni E, Romani R, Talesa VN, Puccetti P, Fallarino F, Gargaro M. Pharmacologic Induction of Endotoxin Tolerance in Dendritic Cells by L-Kynurenine. Front Immunol 2020; 11:292. [PMID: 32226425 PMCID: PMC7081078 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endotoxin tolerance aims at opposing hyperinflammatory responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) participates in protection against LPS-mediated tissue damage, as it plays a necessary role in restraining the proinflammatory action of IL-1β and TNF-α while fostering the expression of protective TGF-β. TGF-β, in turn, promotes durable expression of the immune regulatory enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1). IDO1 degrades L-tryptophan to L-kynurenine-an activating ligand for AhR-thus establishing a feed-forward loop. In this study, we further demonstrate that L-kynurenine also promotes the dissociation of the Src kinase-AhR cytosolic complex, leading to the activation of both genomic and non-genomic events in conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) primed with LPS. Specifically, the Src kinase, by phosphorylating the downstream target IDO1, triggers IDO1's signaling ability, which results in enhanced production of TGF-β, an event key to establishing full endotoxin tolerance. We demonstrated that exogenous L-kynurenine can substitute for the effects of continued or repeated LPS exposure and that the AhR-Src-IDO1 axis represents a critical step for the transition from endotoxin susceptibility to tolerance. Moreover, much like fully endotoxin-tolerant dendritic cells (DCs) (i.e., treated twice with LPS in vitro), DCs-treated once with LPS in vitro and then with kynurenine-confer resistance on naïve recipients to an otherwise lethal LPS challenge. This may have clinical implications under conditions in which pharmacologically induced onset of endotoxin tolerance is a therapeutically desirable event.
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21
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Role of Resveratrol on Indoxyl Sulfate-Induced Endothelial Hyperpermeability via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR)/Src-Dependent Pathway. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:5847040. [PMID: 31885805 PMCID: PMC6900952 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5847040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Resveratrol (RES), a dietary polyphenol compound, has been shown to possess health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiatherosclerosis properties. Tryptophan metabolite-derived indoxyl sulfate (IS) is identified as one of the uremic toxins and physiological endogenous ligand/activator of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), associated with atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Studies have shown that a high serum level of IS causes deleterious effects on health primarily by inducing oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. However, the precise mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we investigated the underlying mechanism of IS effect on endothelial permeability and the role of RES on IS-induced endothelial hyperpermeability via the AHR/Src-dependent pathway. Bovine aorta endothelial cells (BAECs) were cultured and incubated with IS in the presence or absence of RES, and transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and permeability of cells were measured. Alongside, AHR, Src kinase, and Vascular Endothelial Cadherin (VE-Cadherin) activation were examined. Our data showed that IS reduced TEER of cells resulting in increased permeability. VE-Cadherin, a vital regulator of endothelial permeability, was also significantly activated in response to IS, which appeared to be associated with changes of endothelial permeability and AHR/Src kinase. Interestingly, in this setting, RES reversed the effect of IS and inhibited the increased activation of Src induced by IS-activated AHR and modulated VE-Cadherin and permeability. CH223191, an inhibitor of AHR, significantly inhibits IS-induced endothelial hyperpermeability. Further analysis with treatment of PP2, an inhibitor of Src abolishing Src activation, suggests downstream factors. All our data indicated that IS upregulated the AHR/Src kinase pathway, and increased endothelial permeability and phosphorylation of VE-Cadherin may be represented and provide new strategies for addressing protective properties of RES against Src kinase involved in AHR-mediated endothelial hyperpermeability. The findings may be crucial for managing diseases in which endothelial permeability is compromised, and the dietary polyphenols are involved.
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22
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Fujisawa N, Yoshioka W, Yanagisawa H, Tohyama C. Significance of AHR nuclear translocation sequence in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced cPLA 2α activation and hydronephrosis. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:1255-1264. [PMID: 30790002 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02414-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) plays a major role in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-induced toxicity phenotypes. TCDD bound to AHR elicits both genomic action in which target genes are transcriptionally upregulated and nongenomic action in which cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) is rapidly activated. However, how either of these actions, separately or in combination, induces toxicity phenotypes is largely unknown. In this study, we used AHRnls/nls mice as a model in which AHR was mutated to lack nuclear translocation sequence (NLS), and AHRd/- mice as the corresponding control. Using this model, we studied TCDD-induced alterations in cPLA2α activation and related factors because of the pivotal roles of cPLA2α both in AHR's nongenomic action and in regulation of causative genes of TCDD-induced hydronephrosis. Dams were orally administered TCDD at a dose of 300 µg/kg body weight on postnatal day 1, and pups subsequently exposed to TCDD via milk were examined for gene expression on PND 7 and for histological changes on PND 14. The activation of the AHR genomic action and hydronephrosis onset were observed in the control group but not in the AHRnls/nls group. An ex vivo experiment using peritoneal macrophages exposed to 100 nM TCDD resulted in rapid activation of cPLA2α, an indicator of the nongenomic action, only in the control group but not in the AHRnls/nls group. These results indicated that an NLS is required for the AHR's genomic and nongenomic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomi Fujisawa
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Wataru Yoshioka
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan. .,Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Yanagisawa
- Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Chiharu Tohyama
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan.
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23
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Jia Y, Tao Y, Lv C, Xia Y, Wei Z, Dai Y. Tetrandrine enhances the ubiquitination and degradation of Syk through an AhR-c-src-c-Cbl pathway and consequently inhibits osteoclastogenesis and bone destruction in arthritis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:38. [PMID: 30674869 PMCID: PMC6427010 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1286-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we reported that tetrandrine, a natural alkaloid, could inhibit the osteoclastogenesis and bone erosion through enhancing the ubiquitination and degradation of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk). Herein, we addressed whether and how aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) mediate the effect of tetrandrine. In vitro, tetrandrine was shown to repress RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and the expression of osteoclast-related marker genes, which was almost completely reversed by either AhR antagonist CH223191 or siRNA. In pre-osteoclasts, tetrandrine enhanced the ubiquitination and degradation of Syk through the AhR/c-src/c-Cbl signaling pathway, downregulated the expression of phospho-Syk and phospho-PLCγ2, and inhibited the nuclear translocation of NFATc1, a master transcription factor for osteoclastogenesis. Notably, tetrandrine acted through the non-genomic pathway of the ligand-activated AhR, as evidenced by the fact that the effect of tetrandrine did not change in the absence of AhR nuclear translocator. In collagen-induced arthritis rats, oral administration of tetrandrine decreased the number of phospho-Syk-positive cells and osteoclasts, and reduced the bone erosion in the areas of the proximal tibial epiphysis excluding the cortical bone. A combined use with CH223191 almost abolished the effect of tetrandrine. These findings revealed that tetrandrine enhanced the ubiquitination and degradation of Syk and consequently repressed the osteoclastogenesis and bone destruction through the AhR-c-src-c-Cbl pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yugai Jia
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No. 326 South Xinshi Road, Shijiazhuang, 050091, Hebei, China
| | - Yu Tao
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yufeng Xia
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhifeng Wei
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Yue Dai
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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24
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Ghotbaddini M, Moultrie V, Powell JB. Constitutive Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling in Prostate Cancer Progression. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 2:11-16. [PMID: 31328183 PMCID: PMC6641558 DOI: 10.29245/2578-2967/2018/5.1136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Research on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has largely focused on its activation by various environmental toxins. Consequently, only limited inferences have been made regarding its constitutive activity in the absence of an exogenous ligands. Evidence has shown that AhR is constitutively active in advanced prostate cancer cell lines which model castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). CRPC cells can thrive in an androgen depleted environment. However, AR signaling still plays a major role. Although several mechanisms have been suggested for the sustained AR signaling, much is still unknown. Recent studies suggest that crosstalk between constitutive AhR and Src kinase may sustained AR signaling in CRPC. AhR forms a protein complex with Src and plays a role in regulating Src activity. Several groups have reported that tyrosine phosphorylation of AR protein by Src leads to AR activation, thereby promoting the development of CRPC. This review evaluates reports that implicate constitutive AhR as a key regulator of AR signaling in CRPC by utilizing Src as a signaling intermediate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghotbaddini
- Clark Atlanta University- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development 223 James P Brawley Drive Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vivian Moultrie
- Clark Atlanta University- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development 223 James P Brawley Drive Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Joann B Powell
- Clark Atlanta University- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development 223 James P Brawley Drive Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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25
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Zhu J, Luo L, Tian L, Yin S, Ma X, Cheng S, Tang W, Yu J, Ma W, Zhou X, Fan X, Yang X, Yan J, Xu X, Lv C, Liang H. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Promotes IL-10 Expression in Inflammatory Macrophages Through Src-STAT3 Signaling Pathway. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2033. [PMID: 30283437 PMCID: PMC6156150 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an important immune regulator with a role in inflammatory response. However, the role of AhR in IL-10 production by inflammatory macrophages is currently unknown. In this study, we investigated LPS-induced IL-10 expression in macrophages from AhR-KO mice and AhR-overexpressing RAW264.7 cells. AhR was highly expressed after LPS stimulation through NF-κB pathway. Loss of AhR resulted in reduced IL-10 expression in LPS-induced macrophages. Moreover, the IL-10 expression was elevated in LPS-induced AhR-overexpressing RAW264.7 cells. Maximal IL-10 expression was dependent on an AhR non-genomic pathway closely related to Src and STAT3. Furthermore, AhR-associated Src activity was responsible for tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT3 and IL-10 expression by inflammatory macrophages. Adoptive transfer of AhR-expressing macrophages protected mice against LPS-induced peritonitis associated with high IL-10 production. In conclusion, we identified the AhR-Src-STAT3-IL-10 signaling pathway as a critical pathway in the immune regulation of inflammatory macrophages, It suggests that AhR may be a potential therapeutic target in immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lixing Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shangqi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Emergency and Trauma College of Hainan Medical University, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Shaowen Cheng
- Trauma Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Wanqi Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuanzhu Lv
- Emergency and Trauma College of Hainan Medical University, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Huaping Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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26
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Gutiérrez-Vázquez C, Quintana FJ. Regulation of the Immune Response by the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor. Immunity 2018; 48:19-33. [PMID: 29343438 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 564] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is activated by small molecules provided by the diet, microorganisms, metabolism, and pollutants. AhR is expressed by a number of immune cells, and thus AhR signaling provides a molecular pathway that integrates the effects of the environment and metabolism on the immune response. Studies have shown that AhR signaling plays important roles in the immune system in health and disease. As its activity is regulated by small molecules, AhR also constitutes a potential target for therapeutic immunomodulation. In this review we discuss the role of AhR in the regulation of the immune response in the context of autoimmunity, infection, and cancer, as well as the potential opportunities and challenges of developing AhR-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gutiérrez-Vázquez
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francisco J Quintana
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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27
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Ye M, Zhang Y, Gao H, Xu Y, Jing P, Wu J, Zhang X, Xiong J, Dong C, Yao L, Zhang J, Zhang J. Activation of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Leads to Resistance to EGFR TKIs in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer by Activating Src-mediated Bypass Signaling. Clin Cancer Res 2017; 24:1227-1239. [PMID: 29229632 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been generally recognized as a ligand-activated transcriptional factor that responds to xenobiotic chemicals. Recent studies have suggested that the expression of AhR varies widely across different cancer types and cancer cell lines, but its significance in cancer treatment has yet to be clarified.Experimental Design: AhR expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was determined by Western blotting and IHC staining. In vitro and in vivo functional experiments were performed to determine the effect of AhR on sensitivity to targeted therapeutics. A panel of biochemical assays was used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.Results: A high AhR protein level indicated an unfavorable prognosis for lung adenocarcinoma. Inhibition of AhR signaling sensitized EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in NSCLC cells that express high level of endogenous AhR protein. Notably, activation of AhR by pharmacologic and molecular approaches rendered EGFR-mutant cells resistant to TKIs by restoring PI3K/Akt and MEK/Erk signaling through activation of Src. In addition, we found that AhR acts as a protein adaptor to mediate Jak2-Src interaction, which does not require the canonical transcriptional activity of AhR.Conclusions: Our results reveal a transcription-independent function of AhR and indicate that AhR may act as a protein adaptor that recruits kinases bypassing EGFR and drives resistance to TKIs. Accordingly, targeting Src would be a strategy to overcome resistance to EGFR TKIs in AhR-activated NSCLC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(5); 1227-39. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxiang Ye
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China.,State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongjun Gao
- Department of Pulmonary Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyu Jing
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianxiong Wu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie Xiong
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Chenfang Dong
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Libo Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, China.
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28
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Simultaneous inhibition of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and Src abolishes androgen receptor signaling. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179844. [PMID: 28671964 PMCID: PMC5495210 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered c-Src activity has been strongly implicated in the development, growth, progression, and metastasis of human cancers including prostate cancer. Src is known to regulate several biological functions of tumor cells, including proliferation. There are several Src inhibitors under evaluation for clinical effectiveness but have shown little activity in monotherapy trials of solid tumors. Combination studies are being explored by in vitro analysis and in clinical trials. Here we investigate the effect of simultaneous inhibition of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and Src on androgen receptor (AR) signaling in prostate cancer cells. AhR has also been reported to interact with the Src signaling pathway during prostate development. c-Src protein kinase is associated with the AhR complex in the cytosol and upon ligand binding to AhR, c-Src is activated and released from the complex. AhR has also been shown to regulate AR signaling which remains functionally important in the development and progression of prostate cancer. We provide evidence that co-inhibition of AhR and Src abolish AR activity. Evaluation of total protein and cellular fractions revealed decreased pAR expression and AR nuclear localization. Assays utilizing an androgen responsive element (ARE) and qRT-PCR analysis of AR genes revealed decreased AR promoter activity and transcriptional activity in the presence of both AhR and Src inhibitors. Furthermore, co-inhibition of AhR and Src reduced the growth of prostate cancer cells compared to individual treatments. Several studies have revealed that AhR and Src individually inhibit cellular proliferation. However, this study is the first to suggest simultaneous inhibition of AhR and Src to inhibit AR signaling and prostate cancer cell growth.
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29
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Environmental Ligands of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Their Effects in Models of Adult Liver Progenitor Cells. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:4326194. [PMID: 27274734 PMCID: PMC4870370 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4326194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The toxicity of environmental and dietary ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in mature liver parenchymal cells is well appreciated, while considerably less attention has been paid to their impact on cell populations exhibiting phenotypic features of liver progenitor cells. Here, we discuss the results suggesting that the consequences of the AhR activation in the cellular models derived from bipotent liver progenitors could markedly differ from those in hepatocytes. In contact-inhibited liver progenitor cells, the AhR agonists induce a range of effects potentially linked with tumor promotion. They can stimulate cell cycle progression/proliferation and deregulate cell-to-cell communication, which is associated with downregulation of proteins forming gap junctions, adherens junctions, and desmosomes (such as connexin 43, E-cadherin, β-catenin, and plakoglobin), as well as with reduced cell adhesion and inhibition of intercellular communication. At the same time, toxic AhR ligands may affect the activity of the signaling pathways contributing to regulation of liver progenitor cell activation and/or differentiation, such as downregulation of Wnt/β-catenin and TGF-β signaling, or upregulation of transcriptional targets of YAP/TAZ, the effectors of Hippo signaling pathway. These data illustrate the need to better understand the potential role of liver progenitors in the AhR-mediated liver carcinogenesis and tumor promotion.
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30
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Huff MO, Todd SL, Smith AL, Elpers JT, Smith AP, Murphy RD, Bleser-Shartzer AS, Hoerter JE, Radde BN, Klinge CM. Arsenite and Cadmium Activate MAPK/ERK via Membrane Estrogen Receptors and G-Protein Coupled Estrogen Receptor Signaling in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. Toxicol Sci 2016; 152:62-71. [PMID: 27071941 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological evidence indicates that cadmium and arsenic exposure increase lung cancer risk. Cadmium and arsenic are environmental contaminants that act as endocrine disruptors (EDs) by activating estrogen receptors (ERs) in breast and other cancer cell lines but their activity as EDs in lung cancer is untested. Here, we examined the effect of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) and sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) on the proliferation of human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Results demonstrated that both CdCl2 and NaAsO2 stimulated cell proliferation at environmentally relevant nM concentrations in a similar manner to 17β-estradiol (E2) in H1793, H2073, and H1944 cells but not in H1792 or H1299 cells. Further studies in H1793 cells showed that 100 nM CdCl2 and NaAsO2 rapidly stimulated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK, extracellular-signal-regulated kinases) phosphorylation with a peak detected at 15 min. Inhibitor studies suggest that rapid MAPK phosphorylation by NaAsO2, CdCl2, and E2 involves ER, Src, epidermal growth factor receptor, and G-protein coupled ER (GPER) in a pertussis toxin-sensitive pathway. CdCl2 and E2 activation of MAPK may also involve ERβ. This study supports the involvement of membrane ER and GPER signaling in mediating cellular responses to environmentally relevant nM concentrations of CdCl2 and NaAsO2 in lung adenocarcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary O Huff
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205;
| | - Sarah L Todd
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | - Aaron L Smith
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | - Julie T Elpers
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | - Alexander P Smith
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | - Robert D Murphy
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | | | - Jacob E Hoerter
- *Department of Biology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, Kentucky 40205
| | - Brandie N Radde
- †Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- †Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
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31
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Wirthgen E, Hoeflich A. Endotoxin-Induced Tryptophan Degradation along the Kynurenine Pathway: The Role of Indolamine 2,3-Dioxygenase and Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Immunosuppressive Effects in Endotoxin Tolerance and Cancer and Its Implications for Immunoparalysis. JOURNAL OF AMINO ACIDS 2015; 2015:973548. [PMID: 26881062 PMCID: PMC4736209 DOI: 10.1155/2015/973548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The degradation of tryptophan (TRP) along the kynurenine pathway plays a crucial role as a neuro- and immunomodulatory mechanism in response to inflammatory stimuli, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS). In endotoxemia or sepsis, an enhanced activation of the rate-limiting enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is associated with a higher mortality risk. It is assumed that IDO induced immunosuppressive effects provoke the development of a protracted compensatory hypoinflammatory phase up to a complete paralysis of the immune system, which is characterized by an endotoxin tolerance. However, the role of IDO activation in the development of life-threatening immunoparalysis is still poorly understood. Recent reports described the impact of inflammatory IDO activation and aryl hydrocarbon receptor- (AhR-) mediated pathways on the development of LPS tolerance and immune escape of cancer cells. These immunosuppressive mechanisms offer new insights for a better understanding of the development of cellular dysfunctions in immunoparalysis. This review provides a comprehensive update of significant biological functions of TRP metabolites along the kynurenine pathway and the complex regulation of LPS-induced IDO activation. In addition, the review focuses on the role of IDO-AhR-mediated immunosuppressive pathways in endotoxin tolerance and carcinogenesis revealing the significance of enhanced IDO activity for the establishment of life-threatening immunoparalysis in sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Wirthgen
- Institute of Genome Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Germany
| | - Andreas Hoeflich
- Institute of Genome Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Germany
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32
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Park JH, Choi AJ, Kim SJ, Jeong SY. 3,3'-Diindolylmethane Inhibits Flt3L/GM-CSF-induced-bone Marrow-derived CD103(+) Dendritic Cell Differentiation Regulating Phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT5. Immune Netw 2015; 15:278-90. [PMID: 26770182 PMCID: PMC4700404 DOI: 10.4110/in.2015.15.6.278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The intestinal immune system maintains oral tolerance to harmless antigens or nutrients. One mechanism of oral tolerance is mediated by regulatory T cell (Treg)s, of which differentiation is regulated by a subset of dendritic cell (DC)s, primarily CD103+ DCs. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, plays an important role in regulating immunity. The intestines are exposed to various AhR ligands, including endogenous metabolites and phytochemicals. It was previously reported that AhR activation induced tolerogenic DCs in mice or in cultures of bone marrow-derived DCs. However, given the variety of tolerogenic DCs, which type of tolerogenic DCs is regulated by AhR remains unknown. In this study, we found that AhR ligand 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) inhibited the development of CD103+ DCs from mouse bone marrow cells stimulated with Flt3L and GM-CSF. DIM interfered with phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT5 inhibiting the expression of genes, including Id2, E2-2, IDO-1, and Aldh1a2, which are associated with DC differentiation and functions. Finally, DIM suppressed the ability of CD103+ DCs to induce Foxp3+ Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Hung Park
- Department of Biology, Changwon National University, Changwon 51140, Korea
| | - Ah-Jeong Choi
- Department of Biology, Changwon National University, Changwon 51140, Korea
| | - Soo-Ji Kim
- Department of Biology, Changwon National University, Changwon 51140, Korea
| | - So-Yeon Jeong
- Department of Biology, Changwon National University, Changwon 51140, Korea
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33
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Ghotbaddini M, Powell JB. The AhR Ligand, TCDD, Regulates Androgen Receptor Activity Differently in Androgen-Sensitive versus Castration-Resistant Human Prostate Cancer Cells. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:7506-18. [PMID: 26154658 PMCID: PMC4515671 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120707506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The reported biological effects of TCDD include induction of drug metabolizing enzymes, wasting syndrome and tumor promotion. TCDD elicits most of its effects through binding the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). TCDD induced degradation of AhR has been widely reported and requires ubiquitination of the protein. The rapid depletion of AhR following TCDD activation serves as a mechanism to modulate AhR mediated gene induction. In addition to inducing AhR degradation, TCDD has been reported to induce degradation of hormone receptors. The studies reported here, evaluate the effect of TCDD exposure on androgen receptor (AR) expression and activity in androgen-sensitive LNCaP and castration-resistant C4-2 prostate cancer cells. Our results show that TCDD exposure does not induce AhR or AR degradation in C4-2 cells. However, both AhR and AR are degraded in LNCaP cells following TCDD exposure. In addition, TCDD enhances AR phosphorylation and induces expression of AR responsive genes in LNCaP cells. Our data reveals that TCDD effect on AR expression and activity differs in androgen-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer cell models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghotbaddini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314, USA.
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development (CCRTD), Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30314, USA.
| | - Joann B Powell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314, USA.
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development (CCRTD), Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30314, USA.
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34
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Pernomian L, da Silva CHTP. Current basis for discovery and development of aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists for experimental and therapeutic use in atherosclerosis. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 764:118-123. [PMID: 26142084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.06.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The important role played by aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis induced by cigarette smoke exposure has spurred the clinical interest in the development of aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists with atheroprotective efficacy. A few aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists were developed but the lack of structural information regarding the receptor ligand binding domain resulted in several limitations in the pharmacological properties of these compounds including partial agonism, allosterism, non-selectivity, cytotoxicity and susceptibility to bioactivation. These limitations make the progress of preclinical and clinical assays with the available aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists difficult. There is a great interest in developing pure, competitive, selective, nontoxic and resistant to bioactivation aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists. Current technology permits the development of pharmacologically ideal antagonists based on the chemical features of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligand binding domain. According to these characteristics, chlorinated derivatives of trans-stilbene meta-substituted with electrophilic aromatic directing groups would be effective prototypes for pure, competitive, selective, nontoxic and resistant to bioactivation antagonists for such receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Pernomian
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Carlos H T P da Silva
- Computational Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Avenida do Café s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Teng Y, Radde BN, Litchfield LM, Ivanova MM, Prough RA, Clark BJ, Doll MA, Hein DW, Klinge CM. Dehydroepiandrosterone Activation of G-protein-coupled Estrogen Receptor Rapidly Stimulates MicroRNA-21 Transcription in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:15799-15811. [PMID: 25969534 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.641167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the regulation of the oncomiR miR-21 in liver. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) regulates gene expression as a ligand for a G-protein-coupled receptor and as a precursor for steroids that activate nuclear receptor signaling. We report that 10 nm DHEA increases primary miR-21 (pri-miR-21) transcription and mature miR-21 expression in HepG2 cells in a biphasic manner with an initial peak at 1 h followed by a second, sustained response from 3-12 h. DHEA also increased miR-21 in primary human hepatocytes and Hep3B cells. siRNA, antibody, and inhibitor studies suggest that the rapid DHEA-mediated increase in miR-21 involves a G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER/GPR30), estrogen receptor α-36 (ERα36), epidermal growth factor receptor-dependent, pertussis toxin-sensitive pathway requiring activation of c-Src, ERK1/2, and PI3K. GPER antagonist G-15 attenuated DHEA- and BSA-conjugated DHEA-stimulated pri-miR-21 transcription. Like DHEA, GPER agonists G-1 and fulvestrant increased pri-miR-21 in a GPER- and ERα36-dependent manner. DHEA, like G-1, increased GPER and ERα36 mRNA and protein levels. DHEA increased ERK1/2 and c-Src phosphorylation in a GPER-responsive manner. DHEA increased c-Jun, but not c-Fos, protein expression after 2 h. DHEA increased androgen receptor, c-Fos, and c-Jun recruitment to the miR-21 promoter. These results suggest that physiological concentrations of DHEA activate a GPER intracellular signaling cascade that increases pri-miR-21 transcription mediated at least in part by AP-1 and androgen receptor miR-21 promoter interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Teng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Brandie N Radde
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Lacey M Litchfield
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Margarita M Ivanova
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Russell A Prough
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Barbara J Clark
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Mark A Doll
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - David W Hein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Center for Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40292.
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Rey-Barroso J, Alvarez-Barrientos A, Rico-Leo E, Contador-Troca M, Carvajal-Gonzalez JM, Echarri A, Del Pozo MA, Fernandez-Salguero PM. The Dioxin receptor modulates Caveolin-1 mobilization during directional migration: role of cholesterol. Cell Commun Signal 2014; 12:57. [PMID: 25238970 PMCID: PMC4172968 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-014-0057-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adhesion and migration are relevant physiological functions that must be regulated by the cell under both normal and pathological conditions. The dioxin receptor (AhR) has emerged as a transcription factor regulating both processes in mesenchymal, epithelial and endothelial cells. Indirect results suggest that AhR could cooperate not only with additional transcription factors but also with membrane-associated proteins to drive such processes. Results In this study, we have used immortalized and primary dermal fibroblasts from wild type (AhR+/+) and AhR-null (AhR−/−) mice to show that AhR modulates membrane distribution and mobilization of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) during directional cell migration. AhR co-immunoprecipitated with Cav-1 and a fraction of both proteins co-localized to detergent-resistant membrane microdomains (DRM). Consistent with a role of AhR in the process, AhR−/− cells had a significant reduction in Cav-1 in DRMs. Moreover, high cell density reduced AhR nuclear levels and moved Cav-1 from DRMs to the soluble membrane in AhR+/+ but not in AhR−/− cells. Tyrosine-14 phosphorylation had a complex role in the mechanism since its upregulation reduced Cav-1 in DRMs in both AhR+/+ and AhR−/−cells, despite the lower basal levels of Y14-Cav-1 in the null cells. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching revealed that AhR knock-down blocked Cav-1 transport to the plasma membrane, a deficit possibly influencing its depleted levels in DRMs. Membrane distribution of Cav-1 in AhR-null fibroblasts correlated with higher levels of cholesterol and with disrupted membrane microdomains, whereas addition of exogenous cholesterol changed the Cav-1 distribution of AhR+/+ cells to the null phenotype. Consistently, higher cholesterol levels enhanced caveolae-dependent endocytosis in AhR-null cells. Conclusions These results suggest that AhR modulates Cav-1 distribution in migrating cells through the control of cholesterol-enriched membrane microdomains. Our study also supports the likely possibility of membrane-related, transcription factor independent, functions of AhR. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12964-014-0057-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Bessede A, Gargaro M, Pallotta MT, Matino D, Servillo G, Brunacci C, Bicciato S, Mazza EMC, Macchiarulo A, Vacca C, Iannitti R, Tissi L, Volpi C, Belladonna ML, Orabona C, Bianchi R, Lanz TV, Platten M, Della Fazia MA, Piobbico D, Zelante T, Funakoshi H, Nakamura T, Gilot D, Denison MS, Guillemin GJ, DuHadaway JB, Prendergast GC, Metz R, Geffard M, Boon L, Pirro M, Iorio A, Veyret B, Romani L, Grohmann U, Fallarino F, Puccetti P. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor control of a disease tolerance defence pathway. Nature 2014; 511:184-90. [PMID: 24930766 DOI: 10.1038/nature13323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 495] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Disease tolerance is the ability of the host to reduce the effect of infection on host fitness. Analysis of disease tolerance pathways could provide new approaches for treating infections and other inflammatory diseases. Typically, an initial exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces a state of refractoriness to further LPS challenge (endotoxin tolerance). We found that a first exposure of mice to LPS activated the ligand-operated transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and the hepatic enzyme tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase, which provided an activating ligand to the former, to downregulate early inflammatory gene expression. However, on LPS rechallenge, AhR engaged in long-term regulation of systemic inflammation only in the presence of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1). AhR-complex-associated Src kinase activity promoted IDO1 phosphorylation and signalling ability. The resulting endotoxin-tolerant state was found to protect mice against immunopathology in Gram-negative and Gram-positive infections, pointing to a role for AhR in contributing to host fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alban Bessede
- 1] Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy [2] IMS Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, 33607 Pessac, France [3]
| | - Marco Gargaro
- 1] Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy [2]
| | - Maria T Pallotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Davide Matino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Servillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Brunacci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvio Bicciato
- Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Emilia M C Mazza
- Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Macchiarulo
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Carmine Vacca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Rossana Iannitti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luciana Tissi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Volpi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Maria L Belladonna
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Ciriana Orabona
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberta Bianchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Tobias V Lanz
- 1] Experimental Neuroimmunology Unit, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany [2] Department of Neurooncology, University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Platten
- 1] Experimental Neuroimmunology Unit, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany [2] Department of Neurooncology, University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria A Della Fazia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Danilo Piobbico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Teresa Zelante
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Hiroshi Funakoshi
- Center for Advanced Research and Education, Asahikawa Medical University, 078-8510 Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Nakamura
- Kringle Pharma Joint Research Division for Regenerative Drug Discovery, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation, Osaka University, 565-0871 Osaka, Japan
| | - David Gilot
- CNRS UMR6290, Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes, Université de Rennes 1, 35043 Rennes, France
| | - Michael S Denison
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, 95616 California, USA
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Australian School of Advanced Medicine (ASAM), Macquarie University, 2109 New South Wales, Australia
| | - James B DuHadaway
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, 19096 Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Richard Metz
- New Link Genetics Corporation, Ames, 50010 Iowa, USA
| | - Michel Geffard
- IMS Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, 33607 Pessac, France
| | | | - Matteo Pirro
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Alfonso Iorio
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, McMaster University, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Bernard Veyret
- IMS Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, 33607 Pessac, France
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Ursula Grohmann
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Fallarino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Puccetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Frauenstein K, Tigges J, Soshilov AA, Kado S, Raab N, Fritsche E, Haendeler J, Denison MS, Vogel CFA, Haarmann-Stemmann T. Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor by the widely used Src family kinase inhibitor 4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(dimethylethyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2). Arch Toxicol 2014; 89:1329-36. [PMID: 25082669 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-014-1321-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Small molecular weight protein kinase inhibitors are frequently used tools to unravel the complex network of cellular signal transduction under certain physiological and pathophysiological conditions. 4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(dimethylethyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2) is a widely used compound to block the activity of Src family kinases, the major group of non-receptor tyrosine kinases, which trigger multiple cellular signaling pathways. Here, we show that PP2 induces cytochrome P450 1A1 mRNA expression and enzyme activity in a dose-dependent manner in human HepG2 hepatoma cells and NCTC 2544 keratinocytes. By means of reporter gene assays, RNA interference, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and competitive ligand-binding assay, we further demonstrate that PP2 is a ligand for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), an intracellular chemosensor that regulates xenobiotic metabolism, environmental stress responses, and immune functions. Upon ligand-dependent activation, the AHR translocates into the nucleus and dimerizes with the AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT) to modulate the expression of its target genes. In addition, AHR activation is frequently accompanied by an activation of the tyrosine kinase c-Src, resulting in stimulation of cell-surface receptors and downstream signal transduction. As PP2 activates the AHR/ARNT pathway by simultaneously blocking c-Src-mediated alternative signaling routes, this compound may be a suitable tool to study the contribution of the different AHR-dependent signaling pathways to biological processes and adverse outcomes. On the other hand, the unexpected property of PP2 to stimulate AHR/ARNT signaling should be carefully taken into account in future investigations in order to avoid a false interpretation of experimental results and molecular interrelations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Frauenstein
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf'm Hennekamp 50, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Brinkman AM, Wu J, Ersland K, Xu W. Estrogen receptor α and aryl hydrocarbon receptor independent growth inhibitory effects of aminoflavone in breast cancer cells. BMC Cancer 2014; 14:344. [PMID: 24885022 PMCID: PMC4037283 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-14-344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous studies have implicated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) as a potential therapeutic target for several human diseases, including estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) positive breast cancer. Aminoflavone (AF), an activator of AhR signaling, is currently undergoing clinical evaluation for the treatment of solid tumors. Of particular interest is the potential treatment of triple negative breast cancers (TNBC), which are typically more aggressive and characterized by poorer outcomes. Here, we examined AF’s effects on two TNBC cell lines and the role of AhR signaling in AF sensitivity in these model cell lines. Methods AF sensitivity in MDA-MB-468 and Cal51 was examined using cell counting assays to determine growth inhibition (GI50) values. Luciferase assays and qPCR of AhR target genes cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 and 1B1 were used to confirm AF-mediated AhR signaling. The requirement of endogenous levels of AhR and AhR signaling for AF sensitivity was examined in MDA-MB-468 and Cal51 cells stably harboring inducible shRNA for AhR. The mechanism of AF-mediated growth inhibition was explored using flow cytometry for markers of DNA damage and apoptosis, cell cycle analysis, and β-galactosidase staining for senescence. Luciferase data was analyzed using Student’s T test. Three-parameter nonlinear regression was performed for cell counting assays. Results Here, we report that ERα-negative TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-468 and Cal51 are sensitive to AF. Further, we presented evidence suggesting that neither endogenous AhR expression levels nor downstream induction of AhR target genes CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 is required for AF-mediated growth inhibition in these cells. Between these two ERα negative cell lines, we showed that the mechanism of AF action differs slightly. Low dose AF mediated DNA damage, S-phase arrest and apoptosis in MDA-MB-468 cells, while it resulted in DNA damage, S-phase arrest and cellular senescence in Cal51 cells. Conclusions Overall, this work provides evidence against the simplified view of AF sensitivity, and suggests that AF could mediate growth inhibitory effects in ERα-positive and negative breast cancer cells, as well as cells with impaired AhR expression and signaling. While AF could have therapeutic effects on broader subtypes of breast cancer, the mechanism of cytotoxicity is complex, and likely, cell line- and tumor-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wei Xu
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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Wong RLY, Walker CL. Molecular pathways: environmental estrogens activate nongenomic signaling to developmentally reprogram the epigenome. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:3732-7. [PMID: 23549878 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental xenoestrogens is a major health concern because of the ability of these compounds to perturb estrogen receptor (ER) signaling and act as endocrine disrupting compounds (EDC). Inappropriate exposure to EDCs during development, even at low doses, can predispose individuals to an increased lifetime risk of disease, including cancer. Recent data indicate that perinatal exposure to EDCs increases cancer risk by (re)programming the epigenome via alterations in DNA and histone methylation. We and others have begun to dissect the mechanisms by which xenoestrogens disrupt the epigenetic machinery to reprogram the epigenome and induce developmental reprogramming. Our studies revealed that xenoestrogens induce nongenomic ER signaling to activate PI3K/AKT, resulting in AKT phosphorylation and inactivation of the histone methyltransferase EZH2, thus providing a direct link to disruption of the epigenome. Other epigenetic "readers, writers, and erasers" may also be targeted by nongenomic signaling, suggesting this is a central mechanism by which xenoestrogens and other EDCs disrupt the epigenome to induce developmental reprogramming. Elucidating mechanisms of developmental reprogramming of the epigenome is important for understanding how environmental exposures increase cancer risk, and provides a rationale for developing epigenetic interventions that can reverse the effects of environmental exposures to reduce cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lee Yean Wong
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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Rey-Barroso J, Colo GP, Alvarez-Barrientos A, Redondo-Muñoz J, Carvajal-González JM, Mulero-Navarro S, García-Pardo A, Teixidó J, Fernandez-Salguero PM. The dioxin receptor controls β1 integrin activation in fibroblasts through a Cbp–Csk–Src pathway. Cell Signal 2013; 25:848-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Fardel O. Cytokines as molecular targets for aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands: implications for toxicity and xenobiotic detoxification. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2012; 9:141-52. [PMID: 23230817 DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2013.738194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor historically known for regulating expression of several important drug-detoxifying proteins. Besides drug metabolism pathways, cytokines have been recently recognized as targeted by the AhR signaling cascade, which may contribute to toxicity and changes in xenobiotic detoxification caused by AhR agonists. AREAS COVERED This article summarizes the nature of the main cytokines regulated by AhR ligands and reviews their involvement in toxic effects of AhR ligands, especially in relation with inflammation. The article also discusses the potential implications for drug detoxification pathways. EXPERT OPINION Even if various cytokines, including inflammatory ones, have already been demonstrated to constitute robust targets for AhR, the exact role played by AhR with respect to inflammation remains to be determined. Further studies are also required to better characterize the molecular mechanisms implicated in regulation of cytokines by AhR ligands and to determine the role that may play AhR-targeted cytokines in alteration of xenobiotic detoxification. Finally, changes in cytokine receptor expression triggered by AhR ligands have additionally to be taken into account to better and more extensively comprehend the role played by AhR in the cytokine/inflammation area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Fardel
- Institut de Recherche en Environnement, Santé et Travail (IRSET)/INSERM U 1085, Faculté de Pharmacie, 2 Avenue du Pr Léon Bernard, 35043 Rennes, France.
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Guyot E, Chevallier A, Barouki R, Coumoul X. The AhR twist: ligand-dependent AhR signaling and pharmaco-toxicological implications. Drug Discov Today 2012; 18:479-86. [PMID: 23220635 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2012.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Revised: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor which is activated by diverse compounds and regulates the expression of xenobiotic metabolism genes. Recent studies have unraveled unsuspected physiological roles and novel alternative ligand-specific pathways for this receptor. In this review, we discuss these novel aspects and focus on the different responses elicited by the diverse endogenous and/or exogenous AhR ligands. In addition to challenging the relevance of the 'agonist/antagonist' classification of ligands, we introduce the concept of AhR plasticity as a primordial factor in the generation of these pathways. Finally, we suggest several promising perspectives for the pharmacological modulation of these responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwan Guyot
- INSERM UMR-S 747, Toxicologie Pharmacologie et Signalisation Cellulaire, 45 rue des Saints Pères, 75006 Paris, France
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The aryl hydrocarbon receptor regulates focal adhesion sites through a non-genomic FAK/Src pathway. Oncogene 2012; 32:1811-20. [PMID: 22665056 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is commonly described as a transcription factor, which regulates xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes. Recent studies have suggested that the binding of ligands to the AhR also activates the Src kinase. In this manuscript, we show that the AhR, through the activation of Src, activates focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and promotes integrin clustering. These effects contribute to cell migration. Further, we show that the activation of the AhR increases the interaction of FAK with the metastatic marker, HEF1/NEDD9/CAS-L, and the expression of several integrins. Xenobiotic exposure, thus, may contribute to novel cell-migratory programs.
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