1
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Shao ZY, Yang WD, Qiu H, He ZH, Lu MR, Shen Q, Ding J, Zheng JN, Bai J. The role of USP7-YY1 interaction in promoting colorectal cancer growth and metastasis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:347. [PMID: 38769122 PMCID: PMC11106261 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06740-4] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health issue with high incidence and mortality. Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is a powerful transcription factor that acts dual roles in gene activation and repression. High expression level of YY1 has been reported in CRC, indicating the existence of stable factors of YY1 in CRC cells. We aimed to identify the key molecules and underlying mechanisms responsible for stabilizing YY1 expression in CRC. Mass spectrometry analysis was utilized to identify USP7 as a potential molecule that interacted with YY1. Mechanically, USP7 stabilizes YY1 expression at the protein level by interfering its K63 linkage ubiquitination. YY1 exerts its oncogenic function through transcriptionally activating TRIAP1 but suppressing LC3B. In addition, at the pathological level, there is a positive correlation between the expression of YY1 and the budding of CRC. This study has revealed the intricate interplay between YY1 and USP7 in CRC, suggesting that they could serve as novel therapeutic targets or predictive biomarkers for CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Ying Shao
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Clinical Trial, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-Dong Yang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Qiu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhi-Hong He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Ru Lu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Shen
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jun-Nian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jin Bai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Center of Clinical Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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2
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Guan X, Wang Y, Yu W, Wei Y, Lu Y, Dai E, Dong X, Zhao B, Hu C, Yuan L, Luan X, Miao K, Chen B, Cheng X, Zhang W, Qin J. Blocking Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 7 Induces Ferroptosis in Gastric Cancer via Targeting Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307899. [PMID: 38460164 PMCID: PMC11095140 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) presents a formidable global health challenge, and conventional therapies face efficacy limitations. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) plays pivotal roles in GC development, immune response, and chemo-resistance, making it a promising target. Various USP7 inhibitors have shown selectivity and efficacy in preclinical studies. However, the mechanistic role of USP7 has not been fully elucidated, and currently, no USP7 inhibitors have been approved for clinical use. In this study, DHPO is identified as a potent USP7 inhibitor for GC treatment through in silico screening. DHPO demonstrates significant anti-tumor activity in vitro, inhibiting cell viability and clonogenic ability, and preventing tumor migration and invasion. In vivo studies using orthotopic gastric tumor mouse models validate DHPO's efficacy in suppressing tumor growth and metastasis without significant toxicity. Mechanistically, DHPO inhibition triggers ferroptosis, evidenced by mitochondrial alterations, lipid Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, and iron overload. Further investigations unveil USP7's regulation of Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase (SCD) through deubiquitination, linking USP7 inhibition to SCD degradation and ferroptosis induction. Overall, this study identifies USP7 as a key player in ferroptosis of GC, elucidates DHPO's inhibitory mechanisms, and highlights its potential for GC treatment by inducing ferroptosis through SCD regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Guan
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Yichao Wang
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang University of TechnologyHangzhouZhejiang310014China
| | - Wenkai Yu
- School of PharmacyZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310053China
| | - Yong Wei
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Yang Lu
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative MedicineInstitute of Drug Discovery and DesignCollege of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310058China
| | - Enyu Dai
- Department of Genomic MedicineThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTexas77030USA
| | - Xiaowu Dong
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative MedicineInstitute of Drug Discovery and DesignCollege of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310058China
| | - Bing Zhao
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Can Hu
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Li Yuan
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine ResearchShanghai University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShanghai201203China
| | - Kai Miao
- MOE Frontier Science Centre for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauMacau SAR999078China
| | - Bonan Chen
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular PathologyPrince of Wales HospitalThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong999077China
| | - Xiang‐Dong Cheng
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine ResearchShanghai University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShanghai201203China
- School of PharmacyNaval Medical UniversityShanghai200433China
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao‐di HerbsInstitute of Medicinal Plant DevelopmentChinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijing100193China
| | - Jiang‐Jiang Qin
- Zhejiang Cancer HospitalHangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiang310022China
- Key Laboratory of PreventionDiagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouZhejiang310022China
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3
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Sun LL, Zhao LN, Sun J, Yuan HF, Wang YF, Hou CY, Lv P, Zhang HH, Yang G, Zhang NN, Zhang XD, Lu W. Inhibition of USP7 enhances CD8 + T cell activity in liver cancer by suppressing PRDM1-mediated FGL1 upregulation. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01263-2. [PMID: 38589688 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01263-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3), an immune checkpoint molecule expressed on activated T cells, functions as a negative regulator of immune responses. Persistent antigen exposure in the tumor microenvironment results in sustained LAG3 expression on T cells, contributing to T cell dysfunction. Fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1) has been identified as a major ligand of LAG3, and FGL1/LAG3 interaction forms a novel immune checkpoint pathway that results in tumor immune evasion. In addition, ubiquitin-specific peptidase 7 (USP7) plays a crucial role in cancer development. In this study we investigated the role of USP7 in modulation of FGL1-mediated liver cancer immune evasion. We showed that knockdown of USP7 or treatment with USP7 inhibitor P5091 suppressed liver cancer growth by promoting CD8+ T cell activity in Hepa1-6 xenograft mice and in HepG2 or Huh7 cells co-cultured with T cells, whereas USP7 overexpression produced the opposite effect. We found that USP7 upregulated FGL1 in HepG2 and Huh7 cells by deubiquitination of transcriptional factor PR domain zinc finger protein 1 (PRDM1), which transcriptionally activated FGL1, and attenuated the CD8+ T cell activity, leading to the liver cancer growth. Interestingly, USP7 could be transcriptionally stimulated by PRDM1 as well in a positive feedback loop. P5091, an inhibitor of USP7, was able to downregulate FGL1 expression, thus enhancing CD8+ T cell activity. In an immunocompetent liver cancer mouse model, the dual blockade of USP7 and LAG3 resulted in a superior antitumor activity compared with anti-LAG3 therapy alone. We conclude that USP7 diminishes CD8+ T cell activity by a USP7/PRDM1 positive feedback loop on FGL1 production in liver cancer; USP7 might be a promising target for liver cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Lin Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Li-Na Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jiao Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Hong-Feng Yuan
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yu-Fei Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Chun-Yu Hou
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Pan Lv
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Hui-Hui Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Guang Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Ning-Ning Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Xiao-Dong Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Drug ability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer / Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, Tianjin Cancer Institute, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300060, China.
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4
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Lim CH, Fang XQ, Kang H, Oh T, Lee S, Kim YS, Lim JH. ER Stress-Activated HSF1 Governs Cancer Cell Resistance to USP7 Inhibitor-Based Chemotherapy through the PERK Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2768. [PMID: 38474017 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 inhibitors (USP7i) are considered a novel class of anticancer drugs. Cancer cells occasionally become insensitive to anticancer drugs, known as chemoresistance, by acquiring multidrug resistance, resulting in poor clinical outcomes in patients with cancer. However, the chemoresistance of cancer cells to USP7i (P22077 and P5091) and mechanisms to overcome it have not yet been investigated. In the present study, we generated human cancer cells with acquired resistance to USP7i-induced cell death. Gene expression profiling showed that heat stress response (HSR)- and unfolded protein response (UPR)-related genes were largely upregulated in USP7i-resistant cancer cells. Biochemical studies showed that USP7i induced the phosphorylation and activation of heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), mediated by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress protein kinase R-like ER kinase (PERK) signaling pathway. Inhibition of HSF1 and PERK significantly sensitized cancer cells to USP7i-induced cytotoxicity. Our study demonstrated that the ER stress-PERK axis is responsible for chemoresistance to USP7i, and inhibiting PERK is a potential strategy for improving the anticancer efficacy of USP7i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Hoon Lim
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Program, Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Xue-Quan Fang
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Program, Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeji Kang
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Taerim Oh
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonghoon Lee
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Program, Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Seon Kim
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hong Lim
- Department of Medicinal Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Program, Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
- Center for Metabolic Diseases, Konkuk University, 268, Chungwon-daero, Chungju 27478, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
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5
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Li H, Sun Y, Yin H, Zhang Y, Yu J, Hou N, Wang P, Liang H, Xie A, Wang X, Dong J, Xu X. Virtual screening of natural products targeting ubiquitin-specific protease 7. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38361286 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2316779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is a promising prognostic and druggable target for cancer therapy. Inhibition of USP7 can activate the MDM2-P53 signaling pathway, thereby promoting cancer cell apoptosis. This study based on watvina molecular docking of virtual screening method and biological evaluation found the new USP7 inhibitors targeting catalytic active site. Three hits were screened from 3760 natural products and validated as USP7 inhibitors by enzymatic and kinetic assays. The IC50 values of scutellarein (Scu), semethylzeylastera (DML) and salvianolic acid C (SAC) were 3.017, 6.865 and 8.495 μM, respectively. Further, we reported that the hits could downregulate MDM2 and activate p53 signal pathway in HCT116 cells. Molecular dynamics simulation was used to investigate the binding mechanism of USP7 to Scu, the compound with the best performance, which formed stable contact with Val296, Gln297, Phe409, Tyr465 and Tyr514. These interactions are essential for maintaining the biological activity of Scu. Three natural products are suitable as lead compounds for the development of novel USP7 inhibitors, especially anti-colon cancer drugs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongju Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujie Sun
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Hua Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuzhu Zhang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Junhong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Ning Hou
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Huicong Liang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Aowei Xie
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Biological Fermentation Engineering of Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Ximing Xu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, China
- Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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6
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Jin J, He J, Li X, Ni X, Jin X. The role of ubiquitination and deubiquitination in PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway: A potential target for cancer therapy. Gene 2023; 889:147807. [PMID: 37722609 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway controls key cellular processes, including proliferation and tumor progression, and abnormally high activation of this pathway is a hallmark in human cancers. The post-translational modification, such as Ubiquitination and deubiquitination, fine-tuning the protein level and the activity of members in this pathway play a pivotal role in maintaining normal physiological process. Emerging evidence show that the unbalanced ubiquitination/deubiquitination modification leads to human diseases via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the ubiquitination/deubiquitination regulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway may be helpful to uncover the underlying mechanism and improve the potential treatment of cancer via targeting this pathway. Herein, we summarize the latest research progress of ubiquitination and deubiquitination of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, systematically discuss the associated crosstalk between them, as well as focus the clinical transformation via targeting ubiquitination process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabei Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Xinming Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Xiaoqi Ni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Xiaofeng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China.
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7
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He Y, Jiang S, Zhong Y, Wang X, Cui Y, Liang J, Sun Y, Zhu Z, Huang Z, Mao X. USP7 promotes non-small-cell lung cancer cell glycolysis and survival by stabilizing and activating c-Abl. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1509. [PMID: 38082439 PMCID: PMC10713873 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abelson tyrosine kinase (c-Abl) is frequently mutated and highly expressed, and promotes non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) survival, metastasis and tumorigenesis. c-Abl could also be modified through ubiquitination, but the underlying mechanism is not well understood. METHODS Mass spectrometry assays were performed to search c-Abl deubiquitination enzymes. The molecular mechanism was determined using Co-IP assays, pull-down assays, Western blotting upon gene knockdown or overexpression. Cell lines and animal models were used to investigate the role of c-Abl and USP7 in NSCLC. EdU staining assay and Transwell assay were performed to evaluate the proliferation and migration ability of NSCLC cells, respectively. RESULTS Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) is found to upregulate c-Abl via the deubiquitinase screen. USP7 interacts with c-Abl and decreases its K48-linked polyubiquitination, thereby increasing the stability of c-Abl. In addition to the wild-type one, c-Abl mutants can also be deubiquitinated and stabilized by USP7. Moreover, USP7 promotes c-Abl accumulation in cytoplasm by increasing its binding to 14-3-3α/β and activates the oncogenic c-Abl signalling pathway. Furthermore, the USP7/c-Abl axis promotes NSCLC cell glycolysis by direct phosphorylating and stabilizing hexokinase-2 (HK2). Knockdown of USP7 or c-Abl suppresses NSCLC cell glycolysis and reduces lactate production. Further studies revealed that overexpression of USP7 facilitates NSCLC cell growth and metastasis as well as xenograft growth in nude mice, while these activities are suppressed with USP7 or c-Abl being knocked down. CONCLUSIONS USP7 is a deubiquitinase of c-Abl and upregulates its oncogenic activity. USP7 promotes NSCLC cell metabolism by activating c-Abl and HK2. Targeting the USP7/c-Abl/HK2 axis might be a potential strategy to the precision therapy of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming He
- Department of Hematology, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Shuoyi Jiang
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yueya Zhong
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Xiaoge Wang
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yaoli Cui
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jingpei Liang
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Yuening Sun
- Department of Hematology, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Guangdong and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical SciencesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Zhigang Zhu
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of GeriatricsGuangzhou First People's Hospital, College of Medicine, South China University of TechnologyGuangzhouGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Zhenqian Huang
- Department of Hematology, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Xinliang Mao
- Department of Hematology, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Interdisciplinary StudiesThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- GMU‐GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macau Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and DiseasesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
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8
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Park HB, Baek KH. Current and future directions of USP7 interactome in cancer study. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188992. [PMID: 37775071 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188992] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is an essential protein quality controller for regulating protein homeostasis and autophagy. Ubiquitination is a protein modification process that involves the binding of one or more ubiquitins to substrates through a series of enzymatic processes. These include ubiquitin-activating enzymes (E1), ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (E2), and ubiquitin ligases (E3). Conversely, deubiquitination is a reverse process that removes ubiquitin from substrates via deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). Dysregulation of ubiquitination-related enzymes can lead to various human diseases, including cancer, through the modulation of protein ubiquitination. The most structurally and functionally studied DUB is the ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7). Both the TRAF and UBL domains of USP7 are known to bind to the [P/A/E]-X-X-S or K-X-X-X-K motif of substrates. USP7 has been shown to be involved in cancer pathogenesis by binding with numerous substrates. Recently, a novel substrate of USP7 was discovered through a systemic analysis of its binding motif. This review summarizes the currently discovered substrates and cellular functions of USP7 in cancer and suggests putative substrates of USP7 through a comprehensive systemic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Beom Park
- Department of Convergence, CHA University, Gyeonggi-Do 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyun Baek
- Department of Convergence, CHA University, Gyeonggi-Do 13488, Republic of Korea; International Ubiquitin Center(,) CHA University, Gyeonggi-Do 13488, Republic of Korea.
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Caffarelli C, Santamaria F, Piro E, Basilicata S, D'Antonio L, Tchana B, Bernasconi S, Corsello G. Advances for pediatricians in 2022: allergy, anesthesiology, cardiology, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, genetics, global health, infectious diseases, metabolism, neonatology, neurology, oncology, pulmonology. Ital J Pediatr 2023; 49:115. [PMID: 37679850 PMCID: PMC10485969 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-023-01522-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The last year saw intensive efforts to advance knowledge in pediatric medicine. This review highlights important publications that have been issued in the Italian Journal of Pediatrics in 2022. We have chosen papers in the fields of allergy, anesthesiology, cardiology, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, genetics, global health, infectious diseases, metabolism, neonatology, neurology, oncology, pulmonology. Novel valuable developments in epidemiology, pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis and treatment that can rapidly change the approach to diseases in childhood have been included and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Caffarelli
- Clinica Pediatrica, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera- Universitaria, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Francesca Santamaria
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Ettore Piro
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Basilicata
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo D'Antonio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Bertrand Tchana
- Cardiologia Pediatrica, Azienda-Ospedaliero Universitaria, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Corsello
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Carreira LD, Oliveira RI, Moreira VM, Salvador JAR. Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7): an emerging drug target for cancer treatment. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:1043-1058. [PMID: 37789645 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2266571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) also known as herpesvirus-associated ubiquitin-specific protease (HAUSP) is a well-characterized cysteine protease that belongs to the largest subfamily of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs). It is involved in multiple signaling pathways, some of them dysregulated in malignant tumors. USP7 inhibition can lead to cell growth arrest and apoptosis through inhibition of tumor promoters and stabilization of tumor suppressors, making it a promising druggable target for cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED This review covers the structure of USP7, its function in multiple signaling pathways and relevance in cancer, as well as recent advances and future perspectives in the development of USP7 inhibitors for cancer therapy. EXPERT OPINION Literature reports display the multiple antitumor activities of USP7 inhibitors, both in vitro and in vivo. Nonetheless, none have entered clinical trials so far, highlighting the need to delve into a deeper understanding of USP7 binding sites and the development of more accurate compound screening methods. Despite these challenges, further development of USP7 inhibitors is promising as a valuable new approach for cancer treatment, including the ability to address chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Carreira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rita I Oliveira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vânia M Moreira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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