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Latosińska M, Latosińska JN. Serine/Threonine Protein Kinases as Attractive Targets for Anti-Cancer Drugs-An Innovative Approach to Ligand Tuning Using Combined Quantum Chemical Calculations, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamic Simulations, and Network-like Similarity Graphs. Molecules 2024; 29:3199. [PMID: 38999151 PMCID: PMC11243552 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine protein kinases (CK2, PIM-1, RIO1) are constitutively active, highly conserved, pleiotropic, and multifunctional kinases, which control several signaling pathways and regulate many cellular functions, such as cell activity, survival, proliferation, and apoptosis. Over the past decades, they have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutic targets, ranging from various cancers and neurological, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders to viral diseases, including COVID-19. Despite the accumulation of a vast amount of experimental data, there is still no "recipe" that would facilitate the search for new effective kinase inhibitors. The aim of our study was to develop an effective screening method that would be useful for this purpose. A combination of Density Functional Theory calculations and molecular docking, supplemented with newly developed quantitative methods for the comparison of the binding modes, provided deep insight into the set of desirable properties responsible for their inhibition. The mathematical metrics helped assess the distance between the binding modes, while heatmaps revealed the locations in the ligand that should be modified according to binding site requirements. The Structure-Binding Affinity Index and Structural-Binding Affinity Landscape proposed in this paper helped to measure the extent to which binding affinity is gained or lost in response to a relatively small change in the ligand's structure. The combination of the physico-chemical profile with the aforementioned factors enabled the identification of both "dead" and "promising" search directions. Tests carried out on experimental data have validated and demonstrated the high efficiency of the proposed innovative approach. Our method for quantifying differences between the ligands and their binding capabilities holds promise for guiding future research on new anti-cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Latosińska
- Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-814 Poznań, Poland
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Bradley D, Garand C, Belda H, Gagnon-Arsenault I, Treeck M, Elowe S, Landry CR. The substrate quality of CK2 target sites has a determinant role on their function and evolution. Cell Syst 2024; 15:544-562.e8. [PMID: 38861992 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Most biological processes are regulated by signaling modules that bind to short linear motifs. For protein kinases, substrates may have full or only partial matches to the kinase recognition motif, a property known as "substrate quality." However, it is not clear whether differences in substrate quality represent neutral variation or if they have functional consequences. We examine this question for the kinase CK2, which has many fundamental functions. We show that optimal CK2 sites are phosphorylated at maximal stoichiometries and found in many conditions, whereas minimal substrates are more weakly phosphorylated and have regulatory functions. Optimal CK2 sites tend to be more conserved, and substrate quality is often tuned by selection. For intermediate sites, increases or decreases in substrate quality may be deleterious, as we demonstrate for a CK2 substrate at the kinetochore. The results together suggest a strong role for substrate quality in phosphosite function and evolution. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Bradley
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; PROTEO, Le regroupement québécois de recherche sur la fonction, l'ingénierie et les applications des protéines, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de Recherche sur les Données Massives (CRDM), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Département de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Chantal Garand
- PROTEO, Le regroupement québécois de recherche sur la fonction, l'ingénierie et les applications des protéines, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Axe de Reproduction, Santé de la mère et de l'enfant, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Hugo Belda
- Signalling in Host-Pathogen Interaction Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW11AT, UK
| | - Isabelle Gagnon-Arsenault
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; PROTEO, Le regroupement québécois de recherche sur la fonction, l'ingénierie et les applications des protéines, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de Recherche sur les Données Massives (CRDM), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Département de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Moritz Treeck
- Signalling in Host-Pathogen Interaction Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW11AT, UK; Cell Biology of Host-Pathogen Interaction Laboratory, The Gulbenkian Institute of Science, Oeiras 2780-156, Portugal
| | - Sabine Elowe
- PROTEO, Le regroupement québécois de recherche sur la fonction, l'ingénierie et les applications des protéines, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Axe de Reproduction, Santé de la mère et de l'enfant, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Christian R Landry
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; PROTEO, Le regroupement québécois de recherche sur la fonction, l'ingénierie et les applications des protéines, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de Recherche sur les Données Massives (CRDM), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Département de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
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Singh H, Kumar R, Mazumder A. Protein kinase inhibitors in the management of cancer: therapeutic opportunities from natural compounds. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024; 26:663-680. [PMID: 38373215 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2313546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Kinase is an enzyme that helps in the phosphorylation of the targeted molecules and can affect their ability to react with other molecules. So, kinase influences metabolic reactions like cell signaling, secretory processes, transport of molecules, etc. The increased activity of certain kinases may cause various types of cancer, i.e. leukemia, glioblastoma, and neuroblastomas. So, the growth of particular cancer cells can be prevented by the inhibition of the kinase responsible for those cancers. Natural products are the key resources for the development of new drugs where approximately 60% of anti-tumor drugs are being developed with the same including specific kinase dwellers. This study comprised molecular interactions of various molecules (obtained from natural sources) as kinase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer. It is expected that by analyzing the skeleton behavior, the process of action, and the body-related activity of these organic products, new cancer-avoiding molecules can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Singh
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, India
| | - Rajnish Kumar
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, India
| | - Avijit Mazumder
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, India
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Li X, Yang Q, Jiang P, Wen J, Chen Y, Huang J, Tian M, Ren J, Yang Q. Inhibition of CK2 Diminishes Fibrotic Scar Formation and Improves Outcomes After Ischemic Stroke via Reducing BRD4 Phosphorylation. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1254-1267. [PMID: 38381246 PMCID: PMC10991067 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic scars play important roles in tissue reconstruction and functional recovery in the late stage of nervous system injury. However, the mechanisms underlying fibrotic scar formation and regulation remain unclear. Casein kinase II (CK2) is a protein kinase that regulates a variety of cellular functions through the phosphorylation of proteins, including bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4). CK2 and BRD4 participate in fibrosis formation in a variety of tissues. However, whether CK2 affects fibrotic scar formation remains unclear, as do the mechanisms of signal regulation after cerebral ischemic injury. In this study, we assessed whether CK2 could modulate fibrotic scar formation after cerebral ischemic injury through BRD4. Primary meningeal fibroblasts were isolated from neonatal rats and treated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), SB431542 (a TGF-β1 receptor kinase inhibitor) or TBB (a highly potent CK2 inhibitor). Adult SD rats were intraperitoneally injected with TBB to inhibit CK2 after MCAO/R. We found that CK2 expression was increased in vitro in the TGF-β1-induced fibrosis model and in vivo in the MCAO/R injury model. The TGF-β1 receptor kinase inhibitor SB431542 decreased CK2 expression in fibroblasts. The CK2 inhibitor TBB reduced the increases in proliferation, migration and activation of fibroblasts caused by TGF-β1 in vitro, and it inhibited fibrotic scar formation, ameliorated histopathological damage, protected Nissl bodies, decreased infarct volume and alleviated neurological deficits after MCAO/R injury in vivo. Furthermore, CK2 inhibition decreased BRD4 phosphorylation both in vitro and in vivo. The findings of the present study suggested that CK2 may control BRD4 phosphorylation to regulate fibrotic scar formation, to affecting outcomes after ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Department of Neurology, The Second People's Hospital of Chongqing Banan District, Chongqing, China
| | - Qinghuan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Peiran Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jiagui Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Mingfen Tian
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jiangxia Ren
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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McGrath MK, Abolhassani A, Guy L, Elshazly AM, Barrett JT, Mivechi NF, Gewirtz DA, Schoenlein PV. Autophagy and senescence facilitate the development of antiestrogen resistance in ER positive breast cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1298423. [PMID: 38567308 PMCID: PMC10986181 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1298423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer is the most common breast cancer diagnosed annually in the US with endocrine-based therapy as standard-of-care for this breast cancer subtype. Endocrine therapy includes treatment with antiestrogens, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), selective estrogen receptor downregulators (SERDs), and aromatase inhibitors (AIs). Despite the appreciable remission achievable with these treatments, a substantial cohort of women will experience primary tumor recurrence, subsequent metastasis, and eventual death due to their disease. In these cases, the breast cancer cells have become resistant to endocrine therapy, with endocrine resistance identified as the major obstacle to the medical oncologist and patient. To combat the development of endocrine resistance, the treatment options for ER+, HER2 negative breast cancer now include CDK4/6 inhibitors used as adjuvants to antiestrogen treatment. In addition to the dysregulated activity of CDK4/6, a plethora of genetic and biochemical mechanisms have been identified that contribute to endocrine resistance. These mechanisms, which have been identified by lab-based studies utilizing appropriate cell and animal models of breast cancer, and by clinical studies in which gene expression profiles identify candidate endocrine resistance genes, are the subject of this review. In addition, we will discuss molecular targeting strategies now utilized in conjunction with endocrine therapy to combat the development of resistance or target resistant breast cancer cells. Of approaches currently being explored to improve endocrine treatment efficacy and patient outcome, two adaptive cell survival mechanisms, autophagy, and "reversible" senescence, are considered molecular targets. Autophagy and/or senescence induction have been identified in response to most antiestrogen treatments currently being used for the treatment of ER+ breast cancer and are often induced in response to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Unfortunately, effective strategies to target these cell survival pathways have not yet been successfully developed. Thus, there is an urgent need for the continued interrogation of autophagy and "reversible" senescence in clinically relevant breast cancer models with the long-term goal of identifying new molecular targets for improved treatment of ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K. McGrath
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Ali Abolhassani
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Luke Guy
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Ahmed M. Elshazly
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - John T. Barrett
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Nahid F. Mivechi
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - David A. Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Patricia V. Schoenlein
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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6
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Hermosilla VE, Gyenis L, Rabalski AJ, Armijo ME, Sepúlveda P, Duprat F, Benítez-Riquelme D, Fuentes-Villalobos F, Quiroz A, Hepp MI, Farkas C, Mastel M, González-Chavarría I, Jackstadt R, Litchfield DW, Castro AF, Pincheira R. Casein kinase 2 phosphorylates and induces the SALL2 tumor suppressor degradation in colon cancer cells. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:223. [PMID: 38493149 PMCID: PMC10944491 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06591-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Spalt-like proteins are Zinc finger transcription factors from Caenorhabditis elegans to vertebrates, with critical roles in development. In vertebrates, four paralogues have been identified (SALL1-4), and SALL2 is the family's most dissimilar member. SALL2 is required during brain and eye development. It is downregulated in cancer and acts as a tumor suppressor, promoting cell cycle arrest and cell death. Despite its critical functions, information about SALL2 regulation is scarce. Public data indicate that SALL2 is ubiquitinated and phosphorylated in several residues along the protein, but the mechanisms, biological consequences, and enzymes responsible for these modifications remain unknown. Bioinformatic analyses identified several putative phosphorylation sites for Casein Kinase II (CK2) located within a highly conserved C-terminal PEST degradation motif of SALL2. CK2 is a serine/threonine kinase that promotes cell proliferation and survival and is often hyperactivated in cancer. We demonstrated that CK2 phosphorylates SALL2 residues S763, T778, S802, and S806 and promotes SALL2 degradation by the proteasome. Accordingly, pharmacological inhibition of CK2 with Silmitasertib (CX-4945) restored endogenous SALL2 protein levels in SALL2-deficient breast MDA-MB-231, lung H1299, and colon SW480 cancer cells. Silmitasertib induced a methuosis-like phenotype and cell death in SW480 cells. However, the phenotype was significantly attenuated in CRISPr/Cas9-mediated SALL2 knockout SW480 cells. Similarly, Sall2-deficient tumor organoids were more resistant to Silmitasertib-induced cell death, confirming that SALL2 sensitizes cancer cells to CK2 inhibition. We identified a novel CK2-dependent mechanism for SALL2 regulation and provided new insights into the interplay between these two proteins and their role in cell survival and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- V E Hermosilla
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Dept of Orofacial Sciences and Dept of Anatomy, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L Gyenis
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - A J Rabalski
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Odyssey Therapeutics, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M E Armijo
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - P Sepúlveda
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - F Duprat
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - D Benítez-Riquelme
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - F Fuentes-Villalobos
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Inmunovirología. Departamento de Microbiologia. Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - A Quiroz
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - M I Hepp
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Departamento de Ciencias Básicas y Morfología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - C Farkas
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Departamento de Ciencias Básicas y Morfología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - M Mastel
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg. Cancer Progression and Metastasis Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - I González-Chavarría
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - R Jackstadt
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg. Cancer Progression and Metastasis Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D W Litchfield
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - A F Castro
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
| | - R Pincheira
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
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7
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Pervizaj-Oruqaj L, Selvakumar B, Ferrero MR, Heiner M, Malainou C, Glaser RD, Wilhelm J, Bartkuhn M, Weiss A, Alexopoulos I, Witte B, Gattenlöhner S, Vadász I, Morty RE, Seeger W, Schermuly RT, Vazquez-Armendariz AI, Herold S. Alveolar macrophage-expressed Plet1 is a driver of lung epithelial repair after viral pneumonia. Nat Commun 2024; 15:87. [PMID: 38167746 PMCID: PMC10761876 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44421-6] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) infection mobilizes bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) that gradually undergo transition to tissue-resident alveolar macrophages (TR-AM) in the inflamed lung. Combining high-dimensional single-cell transcriptomics with complex lung organoid modeling, in vivo adoptive cell transfer, and BMDM-specific gene targeting, we found that transitioning ("regenerative") BMDM and TR-AM highly express Placenta-expressed transcript 1 (Plet1). We reveal that Plet1 is released from alveolar macrophages, and acts as important mediator of macrophage-epithelial cross-talk during lung repair by inducing proliferation of alveolar epithelial cells and re-sealing of the epithelial barrier. Intratracheal administration of recombinant Plet1 early in the disease course attenuated viral lung injury and rescued mice from otherwise fatal disease, highlighting its therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Learta Pervizaj-Oruqaj
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
| | - Balachandar Selvakumar
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano Ruben Ferrero
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Monika Heiner
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
| | - Christina Malainou
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
| | - Rolf David Glaser
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Biomedical Informatics and Systems Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jochen Wilhelm
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Marek Bartkuhn
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Biomedical Informatics and Systems Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Astrid Weiss
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Ioannis Alexopoulos
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
| | - Biruta Witte
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - István Vadász
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Rory Edward Morty
- Department of Translational Pulmonology and the Translational Lung Research Center, University Hospital Heidelberg, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Werner Seeger
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires (IBioBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralph Theo Schermuly
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Ana Ivonne Vazquez-Armendariz
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany
- University of Bonn, Transdisciplinary Research Area Life and Health, Organoid Biology, Life & Medical Sciences Institute, Bonn, Germany
| | - Susanne Herold
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, University Hospital Giessen, Justus Liebig University, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany.
- Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Giessen, Germany.
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8
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Deng H, Rao X, Zhang S, Chen L, Zong Y, Zhou R, Meng R, Dong X, Wu G, Li Q. Protein kinase CK2: An emerging regulator of cellular metabolism. Biofactors 2023. [PMID: 38158592 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The protein kinase casein kinase 2 (CK2) exerts its influence on the metabolism of three major cellular substances by phosphorylating essential protein molecules involved in various cellular metabolic pathways. These substances include hormones, especially insulin, rate-limiting enzymes, transcription factors of key genes, and cytokines. This regulatory role of CK2 is closely tied to important cellular processes such as cell proliferation and apoptosis. Additionally, tumor cells undergo metabolic reprogramming characterized by aerobic glycolysis, accelerated lipid β-oxidation, and abnormally active glutamine metabolism. In this context, CK2, which is overexpressed in various tumors, also plays a pivotal role. Hence, this review aims to summarize the regulatory mechanisms of CK2 in diverse metabolic pathways and tumor development, providing novel insights for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of metabolism-related diseases and cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huilin Deng
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinrui Rao
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Sijia Zhang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Leichong Chen
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zong
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Meng
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaorong Dong
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Wu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianwen Li
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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9
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Jones AB, Schanel TL, Rigsby MR, Griguer CE, McFarland BC, Anderson JC, Willey CD, Hjelmeland AB. Tumor Treating Fields Alter the Kinomic Landscape in Glioblastoma Revealing Therapeutic Vulnerabilities. Cells 2023; 12:2171. [PMID: 37681903 PMCID: PMC10486683 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment for the deadly brain tumor glioblastoma (GBM) has been improved through the non-invasive addition of alternating electric fields, called tumor treating fields (TTFields). Improving both progression-free and overall survival, TTFields are currently approved for treatment of recurrent GBMs as a monotherapy and in the adjuvant setting alongside TMZ for newly diagnosed GBMs. These TTFields are known to inhibit mitosis, but the full molecular impact of TTFields remains undetermined. Therefore, we sought to understand the ability of TTFields to disrupt the growth patterns of and induce kinomic landscape shifts in TMZ-sensitive and -resistant GBM cells. We determined that TTFields significantly decreased the growth of TMZ-sensitive and -resistant cells. Kinomic profiling predicted kinases that were induced or repressed by TTFields, suggesting possible therapy-specific vulnerabilities. Serving as a potential pro-survival mechanism for TTFields, kinomics predicted the increased activity of platelet-derived growth-factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα). We demonstrated that the addition of the PDGFR inhibitor, crenolanib, to TTFields further reduced cell growth in comparison to either treatment alone. Collectively, our data suggest the efficacy of TTFields in vitro and identify common signaling responses to TTFields in TMZ-sensitive and -resistant populations, which may support more personalized medicine approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber B. Jones
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (A.B.J.); (M.R.R.); (B.C.M.)
| | - Taylor L. Schanel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (T.L.S.); (J.C.A.)
| | - Mikayla R. Rigsby
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (A.B.J.); (M.R.R.); (B.C.M.)
| | - Corinne E. Griguer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Braden C. McFarland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (A.B.J.); (M.R.R.); (B.C.M.)
| | - Joshua C. Anderson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (T.L.S.); (J.C.A.)
| | - Christopher D. Willey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (T.L.S.); (J.C.A.)
| | - Anita B. Hjelmeland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (A.B.J.); (M.R.R.); (B.C.M.)
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10
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Wang X, Wang Y, Gou S. A platinum(II) complex HY1-Pt overcomes cisplatin-induced resistance and attenuates metastasis of epithelial ovarian cancer by cancer cell stemness inhibition. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2023; 157:106395. [PMID: 36871936 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2023.106395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Tumor recurrence, acquired resistance and metastasis have severely limited the effect of clinical treatments for epithelial ovarian cancer. Recent researches reveal that cancer stem cells play important roles in the process of cisplatin-induced resistance and cancer cell metastasis. A platinum(II) complex (HY1-Pt) owning casein kinase 2 specificity reported in our recent research was herein applied to treat cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant epithelial ovarian cancers, respectively, anticipating to achieve high anti-tumor efficacy. HY1-Pt showed highly efficient anti-tumor effect with low toxicity for either cisplatin-sensitive or cisplatin-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Biological studies indicated that HY1-Pt as a casein kinase 2 inhibitor could effectively overcome cisplatin resistance through the signaling pathway of Wnt/β-catenin by inhibiting expression of the signature genes of cancer stemness cells in A2780/CDDP cells. Moreover, HY1-Pt could suppress tumor migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo, further proving that HY1-Pt can be a potent novel platinum(II) agent for cisplatin-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wang
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yuanjiang Wang
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
| | - Shaohua Gou
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
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11
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Wińska P, Sobiepanek A, Pawlak K, Staniszewska M, Cieśla J. Phosphorylation of Thymidylate Synthase and Dihydrofolate Reductase in Cancer Cells and the Effect of CK2α Silencing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033023. [PMID: 36769342 PMCID: PMC9917831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Our previous research suggests an important regulatory role of CK2-mediated phosphorylation of enzymes involved in the thymidylate biosynthesis cycle, i.e., thymidylate synthase (TS), dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), and serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT). The aim of this study was to show whether silencing of the CK2α gene affects TS and DHFR expression in A-549 cells. Additionally, we attempted to identify the endogenous kinases that phosphorylate TS and DHFR in CCRF-CEM and A-549 cells. We used immunodetection, immunofluorescence/confocal analyses, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), in-gel kinase assay, and mass spectrometry analysis. Our results demonstrate that silencing of the CK2α gene in lung adenocarcinoma cells significantly increases both TS and DHFR expression and affects their cellular distribution. Additionally, we show for the first time that both TS and DHFR are very likely phosphorylated by endogenous CK2 in two types of cancer cells, i.e., acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and lung adenocarcinoma. Moreover, our studies indicate that DHFR is phosphorylated intracellularly by CK2 to a greater extent in leukaemia cells than in lung adenocarcinoma cells. Interestingly, in-gel kinase assay results indicate that the CK2α' isoform was more active than the CK2α subunit. Our results confirm the previous studies concerning the physiological relevance of CK2-mediated phosphorylation of TS and DHFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Wińska
- Chair of Drug and Cosmetics Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (P.W.); (M.S.); Tel.: +48-222-345-573 (P.W.); +48-606-438-241 (M.S.)
| | - Anna Sobiepanek
- Chair of Drug and Cosmetics Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pawlak
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Staniszewska
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies, Warsaw University of Technology, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (P.W.); (M.S.); Tel.: +48-222-345-573 (P.W.); +48-606-438-241 (M.S.)
| | - Joanna Cieśla
- Chair of Drug and Cosmetics Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland
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12
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Cancer Stem Cell and Aggressiveness Traits Are Promoted by Stable Endothelin-Converting Enzyme-1c in Glioblastoma Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030506. [PMID: 36766848 PMCID: PMC9914402 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive type of brain tumor due to its elevated recurrence following treatments. This is mainly mediated by a subpopulation of cells with stemness traits termed glioblastoma stem-like cells (GSCs), which are extremely resistant to anti-neoplastic drugs. Thus, an advancement in the understanding of the molecular processes underlying GSC occurrence should contribute significantly towards progress in reducing aggressiveness. High levels of endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE1), key for endothelin-1 (ET-1) peptide activation, have been linked to the malignant progression of GBM. There are four known isoforms of ECE1 that activate ET-1, which only differ in their cytoplasmic N-terminal sequences. Isoform ECE1c is phosphorylated at Ser-18 and Ser-20 by protein kinase CK2, which increases its stability and hence promotes aggressiveness traits in colon cancer cells. In order to study whether ECE1c exerts a malignant effect in GBM, we designed an ECE1c mutant by switching a putative ubiquitination lysine proximal to the phospho-serines Lys-6-to-Arg (i.e., K6R). This ECE1cK6R mutant was stably expressed in U87MG, T98G, and U251 GBM cells, and their behavior was compared to either mock or wild-type ECE1c-expressing clone cells. ECE1cK6R behaved as a highly stable protein in all cell lines, and its expression promoted self-renewal and the enrichment of a stem-like population characterized by enhanced neurospheroid formation, as well as increased expression of stem-like surface markers. These ECE1cK6R-derived GSC-like cells also displayed enhanced resistance to the GBM-related chemotherapy drugs temozolomide and gemcitabine and increased expression of the ABCG2 efflux pump. In addition, ECE1cK6R cells displayed enhanced metastasis-associated traits, such as the modulation of adhesion and the enhancement of cell migration and invasion. In conclusion, the acquisition of a GSC-like phenotype, together with heightened chemoresistance and invasiveness traits, allows us to suggest phospho-ECE1c as a novel marker for poor prognosis as well as a potential therapeutic target for GBM.
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13
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Lee SD, Jeong H, Hwang BR, Yu BM, Cho Y, Nam KT, Kim H, Lee YC. Helicobacter pylori promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by downregulating CK2β in gastric cancer cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166588. [PMID: 36404440 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Strains of Helicobacter pylori that are positive for the oncoprotein CagA (cytotoxin-associated gene A) are associated with gastric cancer and might be related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that plays a major role in tumorigenesis through signaling pathways related to the EMT. However, the role played by the interaction between CagA and CK2 in gastric carcinogenesis is poorly understood. Although CK2α protein expression remained unchanged during H. pylori infection, we found that CK2α kinase activity was increased in gastric epithelial cells. We also found that the CK2β protein level decreased in H. pylori-infected gastric cancer cells in CagA-dependent manner and demonstrated that CagA induced CK2β degradation via HDM2 (human double minute 2; its murine equivalent is MDM2). We observed that CagA induced HDM2 protein phosphorylation and that p53 levels were decreased in H. pylori-infected gastric cancer cells. In addition, downregulation of CK2β induced AKT Ser473 phosphorylation and decreased the AKT Ser129 phosphorylation level in gastric cancer cells. We also found that the downregulation of CK2β triggered the upregulation of Snail levels in gastric cancer cells. Furthermore, our in vivo experiments and functional assays of migration and colony formation suggest that CK2β downregulation is a major factor responsible for the EMT in gastric cancer. Therefore, CK2 could be a key mediator of the EMT in H. pylori-infected gastric cancer and could serve as a molecular target for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Dam Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haengdueng Jeong
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Ram Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong Min Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Cho
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Teak Nam
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunki Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Chan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Licciardello MP, Workman P. The era of high-quality chemical probes. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:1446-1459. [PMID: 36545432 PMCID: PMC9749956 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00291d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Small-molecule chemical probes are among the most important tools to study the function of proteins in cells and organisms. Regrettably, the use of weak and non-selective small molecules has generated an abundance of erroneous conclusions in the scientific literature. More recently, minimal criteria have been outlined for investigational compounds, encouraging the selection and use of high-quality chemical probes. Here, we briefly recall the milestones and key initiatives that have paved the way to this new era, illustrate examples of recent high-quality chemical probes and provide our perspective on future challenges and developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco P. Licciardello
- Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery, Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Paul Workman
- Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery, Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK,The Chemical Probes PortalUK
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15
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Yeast Protein Asf1 Possesses Modulating Activity towards Protein Kinase CK2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415764. [PMID: 36555405 PMCID: PMC9779303 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 plays an important role in cell survival and protects regulatory proteins from caspase-mediated degradation during apoptosis. The consensus sequence of proteins phosphorylated by CK2 contains a cluster of acidic amino acids around the phosphorylation site. The poly-acidic sequence in yeast protein Asf1 is similar to the acidic loop in CK2β, which possesses a regulatory function. We observed that the overexpression of Asf1 in yeast cells influences cell growth. Experiments performed in vitro and in vivo indicate that yeast protein Asf1 inhibits protein kinase CK2. Our data suggest that each CK2 isoform might be regulated in a different way. Deletion of the amino or carboxyl end of Asf1 reveals that the acidic cluster close to the C-terminus is responsible for the activation or inhibition of CK2 activity.
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16
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Unni P, Friend J, Weinberg J, Okur V, Hochscherf J, Dominguez I. Predictive functional, statistical and structural analysis of CSNK2A1 and CSNK2B variants linked to neurodevelopmental diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:851547. [PMID: 36310603 PMCID: PMC9608649 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.851547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Okur-Chung Neurodevelopmental Syndrome (OCNDS) and Poirier-Bienvenu Neurodevelopmental Syndrome (POBINDS) were recently identified as rare neurodevelopmental disorders. OCNDS and POBINDS are associated with heterozygous mutations in the CSNK2A1 and CSNK2B genes which encode CK2α, a serine/threonine protein kinase, and CK2β, a regulatory protein, respectively, which together can form a tetrameric enzyme called protein kinase CK2. A challenge in OCNDS and POBINDS is to understand the genetic basis of these diseases and the effect of the various CK2⍺ and CK2β mutations. In this study we have collected all variants available to date in CSNK2A1 and CSNK2B, and identified hotspots. We have investigated CK2⍺ and CK2β missense mutations through prediction programs which consider the evolutionary conservation, functionality and structure or these two proteins, compared these results with published experimental data on CK2α and CK2β mutants, and suggested prediction programs that could help predict changes in functionality of CK2α mutants. We also investigated the potential effect of CK2α and CK2β mutations on the 3D structure of the proteins and in their binding to each other. These results indicate that there are functional and structural consequences of mutation of CK2α and CK2β, and provide a rationale for further study of OCNDS and POBINDS-associated mutations. These data contribute to understanding the genetic and functional basis of these diseases, which is needed to identify their underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasida Unni
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jack Friend
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Janice Weinberg
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Volkan Okur
- New York Genome Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jennifer Hochscherf
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Isabel Dominguez
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Isabel Dominguez,
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17
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Yang W, Wei H, Benavides GA, Turbitt WJ, Buckley JA, Ouyang X, Zhou L, Zhang J, Harrington LE, Darley-Usmar VM, Qin H, Benveniste EN. Protein Kinase CK2 Controls CD8 + T Cell Effector and Memory Function during Infection. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:896-906. [PMID: 35914835 PMCID: PMC9492634 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2101080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 is a serine/threonine kinase composed of two catalytic subunits (CK2α and/or CK2α') and two regulatory subunits (CK2β). CK2 promotes cancer progression by activating the NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and JAK/STAT pathways, and also is critical for immune cell development and function. The potential involvement of CK2 in CD8+ T cell function has not been explored. We demonstrate that CK2 protein levels and kinase activity are enhanced upon mouse CD8+ T cell activation. CK2α deficiency results in impaired CD8+ T cell activation and proliferation upon TCR stimulation. Furthermore, CK2α is involved in CD8+ T cell metabolic reprogramming through regulating the AKT/mTOR pathway. Lastly, using a mouse Listeria monocytogenes infection model, we demonstrate that CK2α is required for CD8+ T cell expansion, maintenance, and effector function in both primary and memory immune responses. Collectively, our study implicates CK2α as an important regulator of mouse CD8+ T cell activation, metabolic reprogramming, and differentiation both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Hairong Wei
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Gloria A. Benavides
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - William J. Turbitt
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Jessica A. Buckley
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Xiaosen Ouyang
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Lianna Zhou
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Laurie E. Harrington
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Victor M. Darley-Usmar
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Hongwei Qin
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL; and
| | - Etty N. Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA.,Co-Corresponding Authors: Dr. Hongwei Qin, Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Boulevard, MCLM 907, Birmingham, AL 35294. Phone: +1-205-934-2573. , Dr. Etty (Tika) Benveniste, Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 510 20th Street South, 1203 Faculty Office Tower, Birmingham, AL 35294. Phone: +1-205-934-7667.
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18
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Yao Y, Wang Y, Yang F, Wang C, Mao M, Gai Q, He J, Qin Y, Yao X, Lan X, Zhu J, Lu H, Zeng H, Yao X, Bian X, Wang Y. Targeting AKT and CK2 represents a novel therapeutic strategy for SMO constitutive activation-driven medulloblastoma. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:1033-1044. [PMID: 35419951 PMCID: PMC9160449 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Sonic hedgehog subtype medulloblastoma is featured with overactivation of hedgehog pathway and can be targeted by SMO-specific inhibitors. However, the resistance is frequently developed leading to treatment failure of SMO inhibitors. W535L mutation of SMO (SMOW535L ) is thought to be an oncogenic driver for Sonic hedgehog subtype MB and confer resistance to SMO inhibitors. The regulation network of SMOW535L remains to be explored in comparison with wild-type SMO (SMOWT ). METHODS In this study, we profiled transcriptomes, methylomes, and interactomes of MB cells expression SMOWT or SMOW535L in the treatment of DMSO or SMO inhibitor, respectively. RESULTS Analysis of transcriptomic data indicated that SMO inhibitor disrupted processes of endocytosis and cilium organization in MB cells with SMOWT , which are necessary for SMO activation. In MB cells with SMOW535L , however, SMO inhibitor did not affect the two processes-related genes, implying resistance of SMOW535L toward SMO inhibitor. Moreover, we noticed that SMO inhibitor significantly inhibited metabolism-related pathways. Our metabolic analysis indicated that nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies might be involved in SMOW535L function maintenance. Interactomic analysis revealed casein kinase II (CK2) as an important SMO-associated protein. Finally, we linked CK2 and AKT together and found combination of inhibitors targeting CK2 and AKT showed synergetic effects to inhibit the growth of MB cells with SMO constitutive activation mutation. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our work described SMO-related transcriptomes, metabolomes, and interactomes under different SMO status and treatment conditions, identifying CK2 and AKT as therapeutic targets for SHH-subtype MB cells with SMO inhibitor resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue‐Liang Yao
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
- Fuzhou Medical College of Nanchang UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Yan‐Xia Wang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Fei‐Cheng Yang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Chuan Wang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Min Mao
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Qu‐Jing Gai
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Jiang He
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Yan Qin
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Xiao‐Xue Yao
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Xi Lan
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Jiang Zhu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Hui‐Min Lu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Hui Zeng
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Xiao‐Hong Yao
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Xiu‐Wu Bian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer CenterSouthwest HospitalArmy Medical University (Third Military Medical University)ChongqingChina
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19
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Fabbian S, Giachin G, Bellanda M, Borgo C, Ruzzene M, Spuri G, Campofelice A, Veneziano L, Bonchio M, Carraro M, Battistutta R. Mechanism of CK2 Inhibition by a Ruthenium-Based Polyoxometalate. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:906390. [PMID: 35720133 PMCID: PMC9201508 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.906390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
CK2 is a Ser/Thr protein kinase involved in many cellular processes such as gene expression, cell cycle progression, cell growth and differentiation, embryogenesis, and apoptosis. Aberrantly high CK2 activity is widely documented in cancer, but the enzyme is also involved in several other pathologies, such as diabetes, inflammation, neurodegeneration, and viral infections, including COVID-19. Over the last years, a large number of small-molecules able to inhibit the CK2 activity have been reported, mostly acting with an ATP-competitive mechanism. Polyoxometalates (POMs), are metal-oxide polyanionic clusters of various structures and dimensions, with unique chemical and physical properties. POMs were identified as nanomolar CK2 inhibitors, but their mechanism of inhibition and CK2 binding site remained elusive. Here, we present the biochemical and biophysical characterizing of the interaction of CK2α with a ruthenium-based polyoxometalate, [Ru4(μ-OH)2(μ-O)4(H2O)4 (γ-SiW10O36)2]10− (Ru4POM), a potent inhibitor of CK2. Using analytical Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC), and SAXS we were able to unravel the mechanism of inhibition of Ru4POM. Ru4POM binds to the positively-charged substrate binding region of the enzyme through electrostatic interactions, triggering the dimerization of the enzyme which consequently is inactivated. Ru4POM is the first non-peptide molecule showing a substrate-competitive mechanism of inhibition for CK2. On the basis of SAXS data, a structural model of the inactivated (CK2α)2(Ru4POM)2 complex is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Fabbian
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gabriele Giachin
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Bellanda
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Christian Borgo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Ruzzene
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Ruzzene, ; Mauro Carraro, ; Roberto Battistutta,
| | - Giacomo Spuri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ambra Campofelice
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Veneziano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marcella Bonchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Institute on Membrane Technology (ITM)-CNR, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Mauro Carraro
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Institute on Membrane Technology (ITM)-CNR, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Ruzzene, ; Mauro Carraro, ; Roberto Battistutta,
| | - Roberto Battistutta
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Ruzzene, ; Mauro Carraro, ; Roberto Battistutta,
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20
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Zheng Y, Hou C, Yuan H, Hu N, Tan B, Zhang S. Catalytic and regulatory subunits of casein kinase 2 in Penaeus vannamei: Cloning, identification, expression profiles and functional analysis. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 124:230-243. [PMID: 35421572 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.03.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As a highly conserved serine/threonine kinase with catalytic and regulatory subunits distributed ubiquitously in eukaryotic organisms, casein kinase 2 (CK2) is involved in multiple cellular functions, including immune regulation. In this study, two variants of the catalytic subunit (designated PvCK2α-1 and PvCK2α-2) and the regulatory subunit homologs (designated PvCK2β-1 and PvCK2β-2) in Penaeus vannamei were cloned and characterised. PvCK2α-1 and PvCK2α-2 shared the same genomic sequence consisting of six exons and five introns and encoded the same protein of 350 amino acids with an S_TKc domain, although there was a sequence deletion in 3'-UTR in PvCK2α-2 when compared with PvCK2α-1. Because of the sequence deletion in the ORF, PvCK2β-1 and PvCK2β-2 encoded different proteins with a CK_II_beta domain. The gene structures of PvCK2β-1 and PvCK2β-2 were identical and consisted of four exons and three introns. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed that PvCK2α and PvCK2β were constitutively expressed in all P. vannamei tissues tested, with higher levels detected in the immune-related tissues including hemocytes, hepatopancreas, gills and intestine. In these four tissue types, all variants of PvCK2α and PvCK2β were induced upon challenge with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Staphyloccocus aureus. The inhibition of PvCK2α, PvCK2β-1 and PvCK2βComb (the amount of PvCK2β-1 and PvCK2β-2) significantly reduced the survival rates of P. vannamei after WSSV infection and significantly increased the WSSV viral loads. Knockdown of PvCK2 by RNAi could distinctly decrease the expression of NF-κB related genes. All of these results suggest that PvCK2 plays an important role in the innate immune response to pathogen challenges in P. vannamei, with a positive role in anti-WSSV response which may be mediated through regulating the expression of NF-κB drived antimicrobial peptide genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Zheng
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Cuihong Hou
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Hang Yuan
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Naijie Hu
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Beiping Tan
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic Non-grain-based Feed Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic Non-grain-based Feed Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, China.
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21
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Schwarz R, Richter A, Ito ERD, Murua Escobar H, Junghanß C, Hinz B. Validation of an LC-MS/MS Method for the Quantification of the CK2 Inhibitor Silmitasertib (CX-4945) in Human Plasma. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27082394. [PMID: 35458589 PMCID: PMC9028559 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27082394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Silmitasertib (CX-4945) is currently being investigated in clinical trials against various types of cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already granted orphan drug designation to the compound for the treatment of advanced cholangiocarcinoma, medulloblastoma, and biliary tract cancer. Silmitasertib inhibits the serine/threonine protein kinase CK2, which exerts a proliferation-promoting and anti-apoptotic effect on cancer cells. In view of current and future applications, the measurement of silmitasertib levels in plasma is expected to play an important role in the evaluation of therapeutic and toxic concentrations in cancer patients. In the present work, we therefore present an LC-MS/MS method for the quantification of silmitasertib in human plasma. Using a simple liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate and a mixture of n-hexane and ethyl acetate, this method can be performed in any laboratory with mass spectrometry. The validation was carried out according to the FDA guideline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rico Schwarz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (R.S.); (E.R.D.I.)
| | - Anna Richter
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (H.M.E.); (C.J.)
| | - Elisabeth R. D. Ito
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (R.S.); (E.R.D.I.)
| | - Hugo Murua Escobar
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (H.M.E.); (C.J.)
| | - Christian Junghanß
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (H.M.E.); (C.J.)
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (R.S.); (E.R.D.I.)
- Correspondence:
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22
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CSNK2 in cancer: pathophysiology and translational applications. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:994-1003. [PMID: 34773100 PMCID: PMC8980014 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01616-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CSNK2 (CK2) is a pleiotropic serine/threonine kinase frequently dysregulated in solid and hematologic malignancies. To consolidate a wide range of biological and clinically oriented data from this unique kinase in cancer, this systematic review summarises existing knowledge from in vitro, in vivo and pre-clinical studies on CSNK2 across 24 different human cancer types. CSNK2 mRNA transcripts, protein levels and activity were found to be routinely upregulated in cancer, and commonly identified phosphotargets included AKT, STAT3, RELA, PTEN and TP53. Phenotypically, it frequently influenced evasion of apoptosis, enhancement of proliferation, cell invasion/metastasis and cell cycle control. Clinically, it held prognostic significance across 14 different cancers, and its inhibition in xenograft experiments resulted in a positive treatment response in 12. In conjunction with commentary on preliminary studies of CSNK2 inhibitors in humans, this review harmonises an extensive body of CSNK2 data in cancer and reinforces its emergence as an attractive target for cancer therapy. Continuing to investigate CSNK2 will be crucial to advancing our understanding of CSNK2 biology, and offers the promise of important new discoveries scientifically and clinically.
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23
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Inhibiting CK2 among Promising Therapeutic Strategies for Gliomas and Several Other Neoplasms. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020331. [PMID: 35214064 PMCID: PMC8877581 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In gliomas, casein kinase 2 (CK2) plays a dominant role in cell survival and tumour invasiveness and is upregulated in many brain tumours. Among CK2 inhibitors, benzimidazole and isothiourea derivatives hold a dominant position. While targeting glioma tumour cells, they show limited toxicity towards normal cells. Research in recent years has shown that these compounds can be suitable as components of combined therapies with hyperbaric oxygenation. Such a combination increases the susceptibility of glioma tumour cells to cell death via apoptosis. Moreover, researchers planning on using any other antiglioma investigational pharmaceutics may want to consider using these agents in combination with CK2 inhibitors. However, different compounds are not equally effective when in such combination. More research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of treatment and optimize the treatment regimen. In addition, the role of CK2 in gliomagenesis and maintenance seems to have been challenged recently, as some compounds structurally similar to CK2 inhibitors do not inhibit CK2 while still being effective at reducing glioma viability and invasion. Furthermore, some newly developed inhibitors specific for CK2 do not appear to have strong anticancer properties. Further experimental and clinical studies of these inhibitors and combined therapies are warranted.
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24
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SGC-CK2-1 Is an Efficient Inducer of Insulin Production and Secretion in Pancreatic β-Cells. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:pharmaceutics14010019. [PMID: 35056914 PMCID: PMC8778508 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The pyrazolopyrimidine based compound SGC-CK2-1 is a potent and highly specific CK2 inhibitor and a new tool to study the biological functions of protein kinase CK2 irrespective from off-target effects. We used this compound in comparison with the well-established CK2 inhibitor CX-4945 to analyze the importance of CK2 for insulin production and secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Both inhibitors affected the proliferation and viability of MIN6 cells only marginally and downregulated the endogenous CK2 activity to a similar level. Furthermore, both inhibitors increased the message for insulin and boosted the secretion of insulin from storage vesicles. Thus, regarding the high specificity of SGC-CK2-1, we can clearly attribute the observed effects to biological functions of protein kinase CK2.
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25
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Birus R, El-Awaad E, Ballentin L, Alchab F, Aichele D, Ettouati L, Götz C, Le Borgne M, Jose J. 4,5,7-Trisubstituted indeno[1,2-b]indole inhibits CK2 activity in tumor cells equivalent to CX-4945 and shows strong anti-migratory effects. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 12:394-411. [PMID: 34873879 PMCID: PMC8804612 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly pleiotropic and constitutively active protein kinase CK2 is a key target in cancer therapy, but only one small-molecule inhibitor has reached clinical trials-CX-4945. In this study, we present the indeno[1,2-b]indole derivative 5-isopropyl-4-methoxy-7-methyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroindeno[1,2-b]indole-9,10-dione (5a-2) that decreased the intracellular CK2 activity in A431, A549, and LNCaP tumor cell lines analogous to CX-4945 (> 75% inhibition at 20 µm) and similarly blocked CK2-specific Akt phosphorylation in LNCaP cells. Cellular uptake analysis demonstrated higher intracellular concentrations of 5a-2 (408.3 nm) compared with CX-4945 (119.3 nm). This finding clarifies the comparable effects of both compounds on the intracellular CK2 activity despite their different inhibitory potency in vitro [IC50 = 25 nm (5a-2) and 3.7 nm (CX-4945)]. Examination of the effects of both CK2 inhibitors on cancer cells using live-cell imaging revealed notable differences. Whereas CX-4945 showed a stronger pro-apoptotic effect on tumor cells, 5a-2 was more effective in inhibiting tumor cell migration. Our results showed that 49% of intracellular CX-4945 was localized in the nuclear fraction, whereas 71% of 5a-2 was detectable in the cytoplasm. The different subcellular distribution, and thus the site of CK2 inhibition, provides a possible explanation for the different cellular effects. Our study indicates that investigating CK2 inhibition-mediated cellular effects in relation to the subcellular sites of CK2 inhibition may help to improve our understanding of the preferential roles of CK2 within different cancer cell compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Birus
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universtität Münster, Germany
| | - Ehab El-Awaad
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universtität Münster, Germany.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Laurens Ballentin
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universtität Münster, Germany
| | - Faten Alchab
- EEA 4446 Bioactive Molecules and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculté de Pharmacie-ISPB, SFR Santé Lyon-Est CNRS UMS3453-INSERM US7, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, France.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Manara University, Latakia, Syria
| | - Dagmar Aichele
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universtität Münster, Germany
| | - Laurent Ettouati
- CNRS UMR 5246 Institut de Chimie et Biochimie Moléculaires et Supramoléculaires (ICBMS), Faculté de Pharmacie, ISPB, Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, France
| | - Claudia Götz
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saarland University, Germany
| | - Marc Le Borgne
- Small Molecules for Biological Targets Team, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, CNRS 5286, INSERM 1052, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, France
| | - Joachim Jose
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universtität Münster, Germany
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26
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Wei H, Yang W, Hong H, Yan Z, Qin H, Benveniste EN. Protein Kinase CK2 Regulates B Cell Development and Differentiation. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 207:799-808. [PMID: 34301844 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 (also known as Casein Kinase 2) is a serine/threonine kinase composed of two catalytic subunits (CK2α and/or CK2α') and two regulatory CK2β subunits. CK2 is overexpressed and overactive in B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and diffuse large B cell lymphomas, leading to inappropriate activation of the NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways and tumor growth. However, whether CK2 regulates normal B cell development and differentiation is not known. We generated mice lacking CK2α specifically in B cells (using CD19-driven Cre recombinase). These mice exhibited cell-intrinsic expansion of marginal zone B cells at the expense of transitional B cells, without changes in follicular B cells. Transitional B cells required CK2α to maintain adequate BCR signaling. In the absence of CK2α, reduced BCR signaling and elevated Notch2 signaling activation increased marginal zone B cell differentiation. Our results identify a previously unrecognized function for CK2α in B cell development and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairong Wei
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and
| | - Huixian Hong
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and
| | - Zhaoqi Yan
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and.,Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158
| | - Hongwei Qin
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and
| | - Etty N Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294; and
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27
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Zwicker F, Hauswald H, Weber KJ, Debus JÜ, Huber PE. In Vivo Evaluation of Combined CK2 Inhibition and Irradiation in Human WiDr Tumours. In Vivo 2021; 35:111-117. [PMID: 33402456 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Casein kinase 2 (CK2) which sustains multiple pro-survival functions in cellular DNA-damage response, is strictly regulated in normal cells but elevated in cancer. CK2 is considered as a potential therapeutic target, and its inhibition has been associated with radiosensitization in mammalian cells in vitro. Here, we investigated potential radiosensitization by CK2 inhibition in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of CK2 inhibition in vivo was investigated in human WiDr-xenograft tumours grown subcutaneously on BALB/c nu/nu mice with and without fractionated irradiation. CK2 inhibition was performed using the specific inhibitor tetra-bromobenzotriazole (TBB). Histological examinations included staining for apoptosis and double-strand breaks. RESULTS Both TBB treatment alone and radiation alone significantly reduced tumour growth, which was reflected by increased apoptosis rates. However, TBB treatment did not boost radiation-induced tumour growth suppression in combined treatment, although the apoptosis rate increased and repair of double-strand breaks was reduced. This was in stark contrast to previous data on in vitro radiosensitization. CONCLUSION The absence of radiosensitization by CK2 inhibition should be investigated in different tumour models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Zwicker
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; .,Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Henrik Hauswald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus-Josef Weber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - JÜrgen Debus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter E Huber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Winiewska-Szajewska M, Maciejewska AM, Speina E, Poznański J, Paprocki D. Synthesis of Novel Halogenated Heterocycles Based on o-Phenylenediamine and Their Interactions with the Catalytic Subunit of Protein Kinase CK2. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113163. [PMID: 34070615 PMCID: PMC8198750 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 is a highly pleiotropic protein kinase capable of phosphorylating hundreds of protein substrates. It is involved in numerous cellular functions, including cell viability, apoptosis, cell proliferation and survival, angiogenesis, or ER-stress response. As CK2 activity is found perturbed in many pathological states, including cancers, it becomes an attractive target for the pharma. A large number of low-mass ATP-competitive inhibitors have already been developed, the majority of them halogenated. We tested the binding of six series of halogenated heterocyclic ligands derived from the commercially available 4,5-dihalo-benzene-1,2-diamines. These ligand series were selected to enable the separation of the scaffold effect from the hydrophobic interactions attributed directly to the presence of halogen atoms. In silico molecular docking was initially applied to test the capability of each ligand for binding at the ATP-binding site of CK2. HPLC-derived ligand hydrophobicity data are compared with the binding affinity assessed by low-volume differential scanning fluorimetry (nanoDSF). We identified three promising ligand scaffolds, two of which have not yet been described as CK2 inhibitors but may lead to potent CK2 kinase inhibitors. The inhibitory activity against CK2α and toxicity against four reference cell lines have been determined for eight compounds identified as the most promising in nanoDSF assay.
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Protein kinase CK2: a potential therapeutic target for diverse human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:183. [PMID: 33994545 PMCID: PMC8126563 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00567-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
CK2 is a constitutively active Ser/Thr protein kinase, which phosphorylates hundreds of substrates, controls several signaling pathways, and is implicated in a plethora of human diseases. Its best documented role is in cancer, where it regulates practically all malignant hallmarks. Other well-known functions of CK2 are in human infections; in particular, several viruses exploit host cell CK2 for their life cycle. Very recently, also SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has been found to enhance CK2 activity and to induce the phosphorylation of several CK2 substrates (either viral and host proteins). CK2 is also considered an emerging target for neurological diseases, inflammation and autoimmune disorders, diverse ophthalmic pathologies, diabetes, and obesity. In addition, CK2 activity has been associated with cardiovascular diseases, as cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, atherosclerosis, and cardiac hypertrophy. The hypothesis of considering CK2 inhibition for cystic fibrosis therapies has been also entertained for many years. Moreover, psychiatric disorders and syndromes due to CK2 mutations have been recently identified. On these bases, CK2 is emerging as an increasingly attractive target in various fields of human medicine, with the advantage that several very specific and effective inhibitors are already available. Here, we review the literature on CK2 implication in different human pathologies and evaluate its potential as a pharmacological target in the light of the most recent findings.
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Borgo C, D'Amore C, Cesaro L, Sarno S, Pinna LA, Ruzzene M, Salvi M. How can a traffic light properly work if it is always green? The paradox of CK2 signaling. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 56:321-359. [PMID: 33843388 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2021.1908951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CK2 is a constitutively active protein kinase that assuring a constant level of phosphorylation to its numerous substrates supports many of the most important biological functions. Nevertheless, its activity has to be controlled and adjusted in order to cope with the varying needs of a cell, and several examples of a fine-tune regulation of its activity have been described. More importantly, aberrant regulation of this enzyme may have pathological consequences, e.g. in cancer, chronic inflammation, neurodegeneration, and viral infection. Our review aims at summarizing our current knowledge about CK2 regulation. In the first part, we have considered the most important stimuli shown to affect protein kinase CK2 activity/expression. In the second part, we focus on the molecular mechanisms by which CK2 can be regulated, discussing controversial aspects and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Borgo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Amore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Cesaro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefania Sarno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo A Pinna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Ruzzene
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy
| | - Mauro Salvi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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31
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Wang Y, Lv Z, Chen F, Wang X, Gou S. Discovery of 5-(3-Chlorophenylamino)benzo[ c][2,6]naphthyridine Derivatives as Highly Selective CK2 Inhibitors with Potent Cancer Cell Stemness Inhibition. J Med Chem 2021; 64:5082-5098. [PMID: 33834781 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Multifunctional entities have recently been attractive for the development of anticancer chemotherapeutic drugs. However, such entities with concurrent CK2 along with cancer stem cell (CSC) inhibitory activities are rare in a single small molecule. Herein, a series of 5-(3-chlorophenylamino)benzo[c][2,6]naphthyridine derivatives were synthesized using a known CK2 inhibitor, silmitasertib (CX-4945), as the lead compound. Among the resulting compounds, 1c exhibited stronger CK2 inhibitory activity with higher Clk2/CK2 selectivity than CX-4945. Significantly, 1c could modulate the Akt1(ser129)-GSK-3β(ser9)-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and inhibit the expression of the stemness marker ALDH1A1, CSC surface antigens, and stem genes, showing potent CSC inhibitory activity. Moreover, 1c also displayed superior pharmacokinetics and antitumor activity compared with CX-4945 sodium salt, without obvious toxicity. The favorable antiproliferative and antitumor activity of 1c, its high inhibitory selectivity for CK2, and its potent inhibition of cancer cell stemness make this molecule a candidate for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjiang Wang
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Zhaodan Lv
- Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Feihong Chen
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Xing Wang
- Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
| | - Shaohua Gou
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China.,Pharmaceutical Research Center and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, PR China
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Licciardello MP, Workman P. A New Chemical Probe Challenges the Broad Cancer Essentiality of CK2. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:313-315. [PMID: 33771354 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is highly expressed in cancer and has been considered a potential therapeutic target. Wells and colleagues developed and characterized the new CK2 inhibitor SGC-CK2-1. Unexpectedly, this potent and highly selective chemical probe does not show broad antiproliferative activity in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco P Licciardello
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Paul Workman
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.
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33
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Resistance to BET inhibitors in lung adenocarcinoma is mediated by casein kinase phosphorylation of BRD4. Oncogenesis 2021; 10:27. [PMID: 33712563 PMCID: PMC7955060 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-021-00316-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting the epigenome to modulate gene expression programs driving cancer development has emerged as an exciting avenue for therapeutic intervention. Pharmacological inhibition of the bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) family of chromatin adapter proteins has proven effective in this regard, suppressing growth of diverse cancer types mainly through downregulation of the c-MYC oncogene, and its downstream transcriptional program. While initially effective, resistance to BET inhibitors (BETi) typically occurs through mechanisms that reactivate MYC expression. We have previously shown that lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is inhibited by JQ1 through suppression of FOSL1, suggesting that the epigenetic landscape of tumor cells from different origins and differentiation states influences BETi response. Here, we assessed how these differences affect mechanisms of BETi resistance through the establishment of isogenic pairs of JQ1 sensitive and resistant LAC cell lines. We found that resistance to JQ1 in LAC occurs independent of FOSL1 while MYC levels remain unchanged between resistant cells and their JQ1-treated parental counterparts. Furthermore, while epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is observed upon resistance, TGF-β induced EMT did not confer resistance in JQ1 sensitive LAC lines, suggesting this is a consequence, rather than a driver of BETi resistance in our model systems. Importantly, siRNA knockdown demonstrated that JQ1 resistant cell lines are still dependent on BRD4 expression for survival and we found that phosphorylation of BRD4 is elevated in resistant LACs, identifying casein kinase 2 (CK2) as a candidate protein mediating this effect. Inhibition of CK2, as well as downstream transcriptional targets of phosphorylated BRD4—including AXL and activators of the PI3K pathway—synergize with JQ1 to inhibit BETi resistant LAC. Overall, this demonstrates that the mechanism of resistance to BETi varies depending on cancer type, with LAC cells developing JQ1 resistance independent of MYC regulation, and identifying CK2 phosphorylation of BRD4 as a potential target to overcome resistance in this cancer.
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Cooperative Blockade of CK2 and ATM Kinases Drives Apoptosis in VHL-Deficient Renal Carcinoma Cells through ROS Overproduction. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030576. [PMID: 33540838 PMCID: PMC7867364 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the eighth leading malignancy in the world, accounting for 4% of all cancers with poor outcome when metastatic. Protein kinases are highly druggable proteins, which are often aberrantly activated in cancers. The aim of our study was to identify candidate targets for metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma therapy, using chemo-genomic-based high-throughput screening. We found that the combined inhibition of the CK2 and ATM kinases in renal tumor cells and patient-derived tumor samples induces synthetic lethality. Mechanistic investigations unveil that this drug combination triggers apoptosis through HIF-2α-(Hypoxic inducible factor HIF-2α) dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, giving a new option for patient care in metastatic RCC. Abstract Kinase-targeted agents demonstrate antitumor activity in advanced metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), which remains largely incurable. Integration of genomic approaches through small-molecules and genetically based high-throughput screening holds the promise of improved discovery of candidate targets for cancer therapy. The 786-O cell line represents a model for most ccRCC that have a loss of functional pVHL (von Hippel-Lindau). A multiplexed assay was used to study the cellular fitness of a panel of engineered ccRCC isogenic 786-O VHL− cell lines in response to a collection of targeted cancer therapeutics including kinase inhibitors, allowing the interrogation of over 2880 drug–gene pairs. Among diverse patterns of drug sensitivities, investigation of the mechanistic effect of one selected drug combination on tumor spheroids and ex vivo renal tumor slice cultures showed that VHL-defective ccRCC cells were more vulnerable to the combined inhibition of the CK2 and ATM kinases than wild-type VHL cells. Importantly, we found that HIF-2α acts as a key mediator that potentiates the response to combined CK2/ATM inhibition by triggering ROS-dependent apoptosis. Importantly, our findings reveal a selective killing of VHL-deficient renal carcinoma cells and provide a rationale for a mechanism-based use of combined CK2/ATM inhibitors for improved patient care in metastatic VHL-ccRCC.
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Sharma A, Sharma L, Goyal R. Molecular Signaling Pathways and Essential Metabolic Elements in Bone Remodeling: An Implication of Therapeutic Targets for Bone Diseases. Curr Drug Targets 2020; 22:77-104. [PMID: 32914712 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121666200910160404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Bone is one of the dynamic tissues in the human body that undergoes continuous remodelling through subsequent actions of bone cells, osteoclasts, and osteoblasts. Several signal transduction pathways are involved in the transition of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts. These primarily include Runx2, ATF4, Wnt signaling and sympathetic signalling. The differentiation of osteoclasts is controlled by M-CSF, RANKL, and costimulatory signalling. It is well known that bone remodelling is regulated through receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand followed by binding to RANK, which eventually induces the differentiation of osteoclasts. The resorbing osteoclasts secrete TRAP, cathepsin K, MMP-9 and gelatinase to digest the proteinaceous matrix of type I collagen and form a saucer-shaped lacuna along with resorption tunnels in the trabecular bone. Osteoblasts secrete a soluble decoy receptor, osteoprotegerin that prevents the binding of RANK/RANKL and thus moderating osteoclastogenesis. Moreover, bone homeostasis is also regulated by several growth factors like, cytokines, calciotropic hormones, parathyroid hormone and sex steroids. The current review presents a correlation of the probable molecular targets underlying the regulation of bone mass and the role of essential metabolic elements in bone remodelling. Targeting these signaling pathways may help to design newer therapies for treating bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173212, India
| | - Lalit Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173212, India
| | - Rohit Goyal
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173212, India
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Small Molecules Targeting Biological Clock; A Novel Prospective for Anti-Cancer Drugs. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25214937. [PMID: 33114496 PMCID: PMC7663518 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25214937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The circadian rhythms are an intrinsic timekeeping system that regulates numerous physiological, biochemical, and behavioral processes at intervals of approximately 24 h. By regulating such processes, the circadian rhythm allows organisms to anticipate and adapt to continuously changing environmental conditions. A growing body of evidence shows that disruptions to the circadian rhythm can lead to various disorders, including cancer. Recently, crucial knowledge has arisen regarding the essential features that underlie the overt circadian rhythm and its influence on physiological outputs. This knowledge suggests that specific small molecules can be utilized to control the circadian rhythm. It has been discovered that these small molecules can regulate circadian-clock-related disorders such as metabolic, cardiovascular, inflammatory, as well as cancer. This review examines the potential use of small molecules for developing new drugs, with emphasis placed on recent progress that has been made regarding the identification of small-molecule clock modulators and their potential use in treating cancer.
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37
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Shetty PMV, Rangrez AY, Frey N. SUMO proteins in the cardiovascular system: friend or foe? J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:98. [PMID: 33099299 PMCID: PMC7585181 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00689-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are crucial for the adaptation of various signalling pathways to ensure cellular homeostasis and proper adaptation to stress. PTM is a covalent addition of a small chemical functional group such as a phosphate group (phosphorylation), methyl group (methylation), or acetyl group (acetylation); lipids like hydrophobic isoprene polymers (isoprenylation); sugars such as a glycosyl group (glycosylation); or even small peptides such as ubiquitin (ubiquitination), SUMO (SUMOylation), NEDD8 (neddylation), etc. SUMO modification changes the function and/or fate of the protein especially under stress conditions, and the consequences of this conjugation can be appreciated from development to diverse disease processes. The impact of SUMOylation in disease has not been monotonous, rather SUMO is found playing a role on both sides of the coin either facilitating or impeding disease progression. Several recent studies have implicated SUMO proteins as key regulators in various cardiovascular disorders. The focus of this review is thus to summarize the current knowledge on the role of the SUMO family in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prithviraj Manohar Vijaya Shetty
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Rosalind-Franklin Str. 12, 24105, Kiel, Germany
- Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, MAHE-Bengaluru, Bangalore, India
| | - Ashraf Yusuf Rangrez
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Rosalind-Franklin Str. 12, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Norbert Frey
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Rosalind-Franklin Str. 12, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany.
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Preclinical efficacy of CIGB-300, an anti-CK2 peptide, on breast cancer metastasic colonization. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14689. [PMID: 32895446 PMCID: PMC7477577 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71854-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
CK2 is a serine/threonine kinase that is overexpressed in breast cancer and its inhibition is associated to reduced tumor growth and disease progression. CIGB-300 is an antitumor peptide with a novel mechanism of action, since it binds to protein kinase CK2 catalytic subunit alpha and to CK2 substrates thus preventing the enzyme activity. Our aim was to evaluate the potential therapeutic benefits of CIGB-300 on breast cancer disease using experimental models with translational relevance. We demonstrated that CIGB-300 reduces breast cancer cell growth in MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and F3II cells, exerting a pro-apoptotic action and cell cycle arrest. We also found that CIGB-300 decreased cell adhesion, migration and clonogenic capacity of malignant cells. Effect on experimental breast cancer lung metastasis was evaluated after surgical removal of primary F3II tumors or after tail vein injection of tumor cells, also we evaluated CIGB-300 effect on spontaneous lung metastasis in an orthotopic model. Systemic CIGB-300 treatment inhibited breast cancer colonization of the lung, reducing the size and number of metastatic lesions. The present preclinical study establishes for the first time the efficacy of CIGB-300 on breast cancer. These encouraging results suggest that CIGB-300 could be used for the management of breast cancer as an adjuvant therapy after surgery, limiting tumor metastatic spread and thus protecting the patient from distant recurrence.
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39
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Protein kinase 2 (CK2) controls CD4 + T cell effector function in the pathogenesis of colitis. Mucosal Immunol 2020; 13:788-798. [PMID: 31988467 PMCID: PMC7382987 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-0258-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Crohn's disease (CD), one of the major forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and associated with aberrant CD4+ T-helper type 1 (Th1) and Th17 responses. Protein kinase 2 (CK2) is a conserved serine-threonine kinase involved in signal transduction pathways, which regulate immune responses. CK2 promotes Th17 cell differentiation and suppresses the generation of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. The function of CK2 in CD4+ T cells during the pathogenesis of CD is unknown. We utilized the T cell-induced colitis model, transferring CD45RBhi-naive CD4+ T cells from CK2αfl/fl controls and CK2αfl/fldLck-Cre mice into Rag1-/- mice. CD4+ T cells from CK2αfl/fldLck-Cre mice failed to induce wasting disease and significant intestinal inflammation, which was associated with decreased interleukin-17A-positive (IL-17A+), interferon-γ-positive (IFN-γ+), and double-positive IL-17A+IFN-γ+ CD4+ T cells in the spleen and colon. We determined that CK2α regulates CD4+ T cell proliferation through a cell-intrinsic manner. CK2α is also important in controlling CD4+ T cell responses by regulating NFAT2, which is vital for T cell activation and proliferation. Our findings indicate that CK2α contributes to the pathogenesis of colitis by promoting CD4+ T cell proliferation and Th1 and Th17 responses, and that targeting CK2 may be a novel therapeutic treatment for patients with CD.
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Pérez-Moreno P, Quezada-Meza C, Chavez-Almarza C, Niechi I, Silva-Pavez E, Trigo-Hidalgo C, Aguayo F, Jara L, Cáceres-Verschae A, Varas-Godoy M, Díaz VM, García de Herreros A, Burzio VA, Tapia JC. Phosphorylation of Endothelin-Converting Enzyme-1c at Serines 18 and 20 by CK2 Promotes Aggressiveness Traits in Colorectal Cancer Cells. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1004. [PMID: 32850305 PMCID: PMC7406796 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE1) activates the endothelin-1 peptide, which upregulates pathways that are related to diverse hallmarks of cancer. ECE1 is expressed as four isoforms differing in their N-terminal domains. Protein kinase CK2 phosphorylates the N-terminus of isoform ECE1c, enhancing its stability and promoting invasiveness of colorectal cancer cells. However, the specific residues in ECE1c that are phosphorylated by CK2 and how this phosphorylation promotes invasiveness was unknown. Here we demonstrate that Ser-18 and Ser-20 are the bona fide residues phosphorylated by CK2 in ECE1c. Thus, biphospho-mimetic ECE1cDD and biphospho-resistant ECE1cAA mutants were constructed and stably expressed in different colorectal cancer cells through lentiviral transduction. Biphospho-mimetic ECE1cDD displayed the highest stability in cells, even in the presence of the specific CK2 inhibitor silmitasertib. Concordantly, ECE1cDD-expressing cells showed enhanced hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, migration, invasiveness, and self-renewal capacities. Conversely, cells expressing the less-stable biphospho-resistant ECE1cAA showed a reduction in these features, but also displayed an important sensitization to 5-fluorouracil, an antineoplastic agent traditionally used as therapy in colorectal cancer patients. Altogether, these findings suggest that phosphorylation of ECE1c at Ser-18 and Ser-20 by CK2 promotes aggressiveness in colorectal cancer cells. Therefore, phospho-ECE1c may constitute a novel biomarker of poor prognosis and CK2 inhibition may be envisioned as a potential therapy for colorectal cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Pérez-Moreno
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Quezada-Meza
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristopher Chavez-Almarza
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ignacio Niechi
- Facultad de Ciencias, Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Eduardo Silva-Pavez
- Center for Integrative Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - César Trigo-Hidalgo
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Aguayo
- Programa de Virología, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lilian Jara
- Programa de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Albano Cáceres-Verschae
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Varas-Godoy
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Víctor M Díaz
- Unidad Asociada CSIC, Programa de Recerca en Cáncer, Departament de Ciéncies Experimentals i de la Salut, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Médiques, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio García de Herreros
- Unidad Asociada CSIC, Programa de Recerca en Cáncer, Departament de Ciéncies Experimentals i de la Salut, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Médiques, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Verónica A Burzio
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Andes Biotechnologies SpA, Santiago, Chile
| | - Julio C Tapia
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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The COP9 Signalosome: A Multi-DUB Complex. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071082. [PMID: 32708147 PMCID: PMC7407660 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The COP9 signalosome (CSN) is a signaling platform controlling the cellular ubiquitylation status. It determines the activity and remodeling of ~700 cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases (CRLs), which control more than 20% of all ubiquitylation events in cells and thereby influence virtually any cellular pathway. In addition, it is associated with deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs) protecting CRLs from autoubiquitylation and rescuing ubiquitylated proteins from degradation. The coordination of ubiquitylation and deubiquitylation by the CSN is presumably important for fine-tuning the precise formation of defined ubiquitin chains. Considering its intrinsic DUB activity specific for deneddylation of CRLs and belonging to the JAMM family as well as its associated DUBs, the CSN represents a multi-DUB complex. Two CSN-associated DUBs, the ubiquitin-specific protease 15 (USP15) and USP48 are regulators in the NF-κB signaling pathway. USP15 protects CRL1β-TrCP responsible for IκBα ubiquitylation, whereas USP48 stabilizes the nuclear pool of the NF-κB transcription factor RelA upon TNF stimulation by counteracting CRL2SOCS1. Moreover, the CSN controls the neddylation status of cells by its intrinsic DUB activity and by destabilizing the associated deneddylation enzyme 1 (DEN1). Thus, the CSN is a master regulator at the intersection between ubiquitylation and neddylation.
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Wang Z, Hou Q, Wan K, Zhang R, Dong L, Zhang D, Yin H. Comparative analysis of two brine shrimps revealed differential expression pattern and functional characterization of CK2α under bacterial stimulation from different geographical distribution. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 99:631-640. [PMID: 32112892 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.02.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how the brine shrimp responds to different geographical populations can provide novel insights on response to bacterial stimulation. In the paper, Artemia sinica from lower altitudes and Artemia parthenogenetica from higher altitudes of the Tibetan Plateau, were used to illustrate different defense against bacteria mechanisms that these organisms used to adapt to different geographical environments. Protein kinase CK2 is a serine/threonine kinase with a multitude of protein substrates. It is a ubiquitous enzyme essential for the viability of eukaryotic cells, where its functions in a variety of cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, apoptosis, transcription, and viral infection. The gene encodes the same mRNA sequence in A. sinica and A. parthenogenetica, named AsCK2α and ApCK2α, respectively. The open reading frame was obtained, a 1047-bp sequence encoding a predicted protein of 349 amino acids. To systematically analyze the expression of AsCK2α and ApCK2α during embryonic development and bacterial challenge, real-time PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed. The results showed that AsCK2α was higher than ApCK2α at different developmental stages. Under bacterial challenge, the expression of ApCK2α was significantly higher than AsCK2α. Protein localization analysis showed that AsCK2α and ApCK2α were mainly distributed in the head and chest. Our research revealed that CK2α plays a vital role in the growth, development and bacterial stimulation of the brine shrimp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangping Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China
| | - Qiru Hou
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China
| | - Kun Wan
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China
| | - Rui Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China
| | - Lijun Dong
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China
| | - Daochuan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China.
| | - Hong Yin
- The Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, PR China.
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O’Byrne SN, Scott JW, Pilotte JR, Santiago ADS, Langendorf CG, Oakhill JS, Eduful BJ, Couñago RM, Wells CI, Zuercher WJ, Willson TM, Drewry DH. In Depth Analysis of Kinase Cross Screening Data to Identify CAMKK2 Inhibitory Scaffolds. Molecules 2020; 25:E325. [PMID: 31941153 PMCID: PMC7024175 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25020325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [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: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CAMKK2) activates CAMK1, CAMK4, AMPK, and AKT, leading to numerous physiological responses. The deregulation of CAMKK2 is linked to several diseases, suggesting the utility of CAMKK2 inhibitors for oncological, metabolic and inflammatory indications. In this work, we demonstrate that STO-609, frequently described as a selective inhibitor for CAMKK2, potently inhibits a significant number of other kinases. Through an analysis of literature and public databases, we have identified other potent CAMKK2 inhibitors and verified their activities in differential scanning fluorimetry and enzyme inhibition assays. These inhibitors are potential starting points for the development of selective CAMKK2 inhibitors and will lead to tools that delineate the roles of this kinase in disease biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean N. O’Byrne
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - John W. Scott
- St Vincent’s Institute and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 3065, Australia; (J.W.S.); (C.G.L.); (J.S.O.)
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, 215 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville 3052, Australia
| | - Joseph R. Pilotte
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - André da S. Santiago
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas SP 13083-875, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.); (R.M.C.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Christopher G. Langendorf
- St Vincent’s Institute and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 3065, Australia; (J.W.S.); (C.G.L.); (J.S.O.)
| | - Jonathan S. Oakhill
- St Vincent’s Institute and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 3065, Australia; (J.W.S.); (C.G.L.); (J.S.O.)
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, 215 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Benjamin J. Eduful
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - Rafael M. Couñago
- Centro de Química Medicinal (CQMED), Centro de Biologia Molecular e Engenharia Genética (CBMEG), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas SP 13083-875, Brazil; (A.d.S.S.); (R.M.C.)
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas SP 13083-886, Brazil
| | - Carrow I. Wells
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - William J. Zuercher
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - Timothy M. Willson
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
| | - David H. Drewry
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (S.N.O.); (J.R.P.); (B.J.E.); (C.I.W.); (W.J.Z.); (T.M.W.)
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D'Amore C, Borgo C, Sarno S, Salvi M. Role of CK2 inhibitor CX-4945 in anti-cancer combination therapy - potential clinical relevance. Cell Oncol 2020; 43:1003-1016. [PMID: 33052585 PMCID: PMC7717057 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00566-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protein kinase CK2 inhibition has long been considered as an attractive anti-cancer strategy based on the following considerations: CK2 is a pro-survival kinase, it is frequently over-expressed in human tumours and its over-expression correlates with a worse prognosis. Preclinical evidence strongly supports the feasibility of this target and, although dozens of CK2 inhibitors have been described in the literature so far, CX-4945 (silmitasertib) was the first that entered into clinical trials for the treatment of both human haematological and solid tumours. However, kinase inhibitor monotherapies turned out to be effective only in a limited number of malignancies, probably due to the multifaceted causes that underlie them, supporting the emerging view that multi-targeted approaches to treat human tumours could be more effective. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we will address combined anti-cancer therapeutic strategies described so far which involve the use of CX-4945. Data from preclinical studies clearly show the ability of CX-4945 to synergistically cooperate with different classes of anti-neoplastic agents, thereby contributing to an orchestrated anti-tumour action against multiple targets. Overall, these promising outcomes support the translation of CX-4945 combined therapies into clinical anti-cancer applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Amore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Christian Borgo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefania Sarno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Mauro Salvi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Pérez-Moreno P, Indo S, Niechi I, Huerta H, Cabello P, Jara L, Aguayo F, Varas-Godoy M, Burzio VA, Tapia JC. Endothelin-converting enzyme-1c promotes stem cell traits and aggressiveness in colorectal cancer cells. Mol Oncol 2019; 14:347-362. [PMID: 31788944 PMCID: PMC6998658 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelin-1 is a mitogenic peptide that activates several proliferation, survival, and invasiveness pathways. The effects of endothelin-1 rely on its activation by endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE1), which is expressed as four isoforms with different cytoplasmic N termini. Recently, isoform ECE1c has been suggested to have a role in cancer aggressiveness. The N terminus of ECE1c is phosphorylated by protein kinase CK2 (also known as casein kinase 2), and this enhances its stability and promotes invasiveness in colorectal cancer cells. However, it is not known how phosphorylation improves stability and why this is correlated with increased aggressiveness. We hypothesized that CK2 phosphorylation protects ECE1c from N-terminal ubiquitination and, consequently, from proteasomal degradation. Here, we show that lysine 6 is the bona fide residue involved in ubiquitination of ECE1c and its mutation to arginine (ECE1cK6R ) significantly impairs proteasomal degradation, thereby augmenting ECE1c stability, even in the presence of the CK2 inhibitor silmitasertib. Furthermore, colorectal cancer cells overexpressing ECE1cK6R displayed enhanced cancer stem cell (CSC) traits, including increased stemness gene expression, chemoresistance, self-renewal, and colony formation and spheroid formation in vitro, as well as enhanced tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. These findings suggest that CK2-dependent phosphorylation enhances ECE1c stability, promoting an increase in CSC-like traits. Therefore, phospho-ECE1c may be a biomarker of poor prognosis and a potential therapeutic target for colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Pérez-Moreno
- Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Indo
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ignacio Niechi
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Hernán Huerta
- Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo Cabello
- Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lilian Jara
- Programa de Genética Humana, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Aguayo
- Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Varas-Godoy
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Verónica A Burzio
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile.,Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Andes Biotechnologies SpA, Santiago, Chile
| | - Julio C Tapia
- Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Jiang C, Ma Z, Zhang G, Yang X, Du Q, Wang W. CSNK2A1 Promotes Gastric Cancer Invasion Through the PI3K-Akt-mTOR Signaling Pathway. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:10135-10143. [PMID: 31819646 PMCID: PMC6897054 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s222620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Casein kinase 2 a1 (CSNK2A1) has been shown to be involved in tumorigenesis by enhancing several oncogenic signaling pathways in various cancers. However, the function and mechanism of CSNK2A1 in gastric cancer remain unclear, and this study aimed to elucidate the role of CSNK2A1 in gastric cancer. Methods CSNK2A1 expression was assessed by Western blot and qPCR in four gastric cancer (GC) cell lines and one normal gastric epithelial cell line. Stable cancer cell lines with CSNK2A1 gene overexpression or knockdown were established to investigate the function and mechanism of CSNK2A1 in GC cells. Results CSNK2A1 expression was higher in GC cells than in normal gastric epithelial cells. Stable overexpression of CSNK2A1 in SNU216 cells significantly increased cellular proliferation, invasion, and migration. Silencing CSNK2A1 expression in SGC-790 cells effectively inhibited its oncogenic function. We further verified that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was affected by CSNK2A1 and that CSNK2A1 promotes GC cell invasion through the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway. Conclusion Our findings suggested that CSNK2A1 plays important oncogenic roles in GC invasion via EMT and the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway and that CSNK2A1 may serve as a novel prognostic and/or therapeutic target in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People's Republic of China.,Departments of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250031, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenghong Ma
- Departments of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250031, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoan Zhang
- Forensic Science Center, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong 272067, People's Republic of China.,Cancer Pathology Institute, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong 272000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xigui Yang
- Departments of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250031, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Du
- Departments of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong 272000, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibo Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People's Republic of China
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47
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Pourbasheer E, Aalizadeh R, Ganjali MR. QSAR study of CK2 inhibitors by GA-MLR and GA-SVM methods. ARAB J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2014.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Inhibiting casein kinase 2 overcomes paclitaxel resistance in gastric cancer. Gastric Cancer 2019; 22:1153-1163. [PMID: 31098863 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-019-00971-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Casein kinase (CK) 2 activation has been implicated in the proliferation of various tumor types and resistance to chemotherapy. We investigated the mechanistic basis for the association between CK2 activation and paclitaxel resistance in a gastric cancer (GC). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN CK2 expression was evaluated in 59 advanced GC patients treated with paclitaxel as the second-line therapy. The efficacy of a CK2 inhibitor, CX-4945, and paclitaxel was evaluated in GC cell lines and a xenograft model. RESULTS Patients with high CK2 expression (29/59, 39%) showed lower disease control rates (47.7% vs. 72.3%, p = 0.017) and shorter progression-free survival (2.8 vs. 4.8 months, p = 0.009) than patients with low CK2 expression. CK2 protein expression was associated with sensitivity to paclitaxel in 49 GC cell lines. Combination therapy with CX-4945 and paclitaxel exerted synergistic antiproliferative effects and inhibited the downregulation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT signaling in SNU-1 cells. In the SNU-1 xenograft model, the combination treatment was significantly superior to either single agent, suppressing tumor growth without notable toxicities. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrated that CK2 activation was related to paclitaxel resistance and that CX-4945 in combination with paclitaxel could be used as a potential treatment for paclitaxel resistance in GC.
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49
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Small molecule modulators targeting protein kinase CK1 and CK2. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 181:111581. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Feng Q, Huang Y, Yao D, Zhu C, Li S, Ma H, Aweya JJ, Zhang Y. Litopenaeus vannamei CK2 is involved in shrimp innate immunity by modulating hemocytes apoptosis. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 94:643-653. [PMID: 31563555 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.09.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 (CK2) is a ubiquitous serine/threonine kinase with multiple cellular functions in vertebrates including apoptosis, differentiation, proliferation, survival, tumorigenesis, signal transduction, immune regulation and inflammation. In the current study, the catalytic and regulatory subunit homologs of Litopenaeus vannamei protein kinase CK2 (LvCK2α and LvCK2β) were cloned and characterized. LvCK2α has a full-length cDNA sequence of 1764 bp with a 1053 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative protein of 351 amino acids, which contains a typical serine/threonine kinase domain. On the other hand, LvCK2β has a 1394 bp full-length cDNA with an ORF of 663 bp encoding a protein with 221 amino acids, which contains a Casein kinase II regulatory subunit domain. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis revealed that LvCK2 was evolutionary related with the CK2 of invertebrates. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis showed that LvCK2α and LvCK2β transcripts were widely expressed in all shrimp tissues tested, and were both induced in hemocytes and hepatopancreas upon challenge with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Streptoccocus iniae, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), suggesting their involvement in shrimp immune response. Moreover, RNA interference (RNAi) of LvCK2α resulted in increased hemocytes apoptosis, shown by high caspase 3/7 activity, increased number of apoptotic cells, coupled with an elevation in transcript levels of pro-apoptotic LvCaspase3 and LvCytochrome C, and a reduction in mRNA levels of pro-survival LvBcl2, LvIAP1, and LvIAP2. In addition, LvCK2α knockdown followed by V. parahaemolyticus challenge resulted in higher cumulative mortality of shrimp. Taken together, our current findings suggest that LvCK2 modulates shrimp hemocytes apoptosis as part of the innate immune response to pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Feng
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Yueqian Huang
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Defu Yao
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Chunhua Zhu
- College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, 524025, China
| | - Shengkang Li
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hongyu Ma
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Jude Juventus Aweya
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
| | - Yueling Zhang
- Department of Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
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