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Liu F, Chen J, Li K, Li H, Zhu Y, Zhai Y, Lu B, Fan Y, Liu Z, Chen X, Jia X, Dong Z, Liu K. Ubiquitination and deubiquitination in cancer: from mechanisms to novel therapeutic approaches. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:148. [PMID: 39048965 PMCID: PMC11270804 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02046-3] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination, a pivotal posttranslational modification of proteins, plays a fundamental role in regulating protein stability. The dysregulation of ubiquitinating and deubiquitinating enzymes is a common feature in various cancers, underscoring the imperative to investigate ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases (DUBs) for insights into oncogenic processes and the development of therapeutic interventions. In this review, we discuss the contributions of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in all hallmarks of cancer and progress in drug discovery. We delve into the multiple functions of the UPS in oncology, including its regulation of multiple cancer-associated pathways, its role in metabolic reprogramming, its engagement with tumor immune responses, its function in phenotypic plasticity and polymorphic microbiomes, and other essential cellular functions. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive overview of novel anticancer strategies that leverage the UPS, including the development and application of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Jingyu Chen
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, School of Third Clinical Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of First Clinical Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Haochen Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of First Clinical Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yiyi Zhu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of First Clinical Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yubo Zhai
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Bingbing Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yanle Fan
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Ziyue Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xiaojie Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xuechao Jia
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of TCM Syndrome and Prescription in Signaling, Traditional Chinese Medicine (Zhong Jing) School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Zigang Dong
- Tianjian Laboratory of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
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Mao W, Wang B, Huang R, Sun Z, Yan M, Dong P. Histone modifications in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1427725. [PMID: 38983924 PMCID: PMC11231198 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1427725] [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: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is the main cause of cancer death worldwide, with squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) being the second most frequent subtype. HNSCC poses significant health threats due to its high incidence and poor prognosis, underscoring the urgent need for advanced research. Histone modifications play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression and influencing various biological processes. In the context of HNSCC, aberrant histone modifications are increasingly recognized as critical contributors to its development and pathologic progression. This review demonstrates the molecular mechanisms, by which histone modifications such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, impact the pathogenesis of HNSCC. The dysregulation of histone-modifying enzymes, including histone acetyltransferases (HATs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), and histone methyltransferases (HMTs), is discussed for its role in altering chromatin structure and gene expression in HNSCC. Moreover, we will explore the potential of targeting histone modifications as a therapeutic strategy, highlighting current preclinical and clinical studies that investigate histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) and other epigenetic drugs, referring to the completed and ongoing clinical trials on those medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Mao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Baoxin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruofei Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenfeng Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Minzhu Yan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Pin Dong
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Qi Y, Rezaeian AH, Wang J, Huang D, Chen H, Inuzuka H, Wei W. Molecular insights and clinical implications for the tumor suppressor role of SCF FBXW7 E3 ubiquitin ligase. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189140. [PMID: 38909632 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189140] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
FBXW7 is one of the most well-characterized F-box proteins, serving as substrate receptor subunit of SKP1-CUL1-F-box (SCF) E3 ligase complexes. SCFFBXW7 is responsible for the degradation of various oncogenic proteins such as cyclin E, c-MYC, c-JUN, NOTCH, and MCL1. Therefore, FBXW7 functions largely as a major tumor suppressor. In keeping with this notion, FBXW7 gene mutations or downregulations have been found and reported in many types of malignant tumors, such as endometrial, colorectal, lung, and breast cancers, which facilitate the proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance of cancer cells. Therefore, it is critical to review newly identified FBXW7 regulation and tumor suppressor function under physiological and pathological conditions to develop effective strategies for the treatment of FBXW7-altered cancers. Since a growing body of evidence has revealed the tumor-suppressive activity and role of FBXW7, here, we updated FBXW7 upstream and downstream signaling including FBXW7 ubiquitin substrates, the multi-level FBXW7 regulatory mechanisms, and dysregulation of FBXW7 in cancer, and discussed promising cancer therapies targeting FBXW7 regulators and downstream effectors, to provide a comprehensive picture of FBXW7 and facilitate the study in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihang Qi
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Abdol-Hossein Rezaeian
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jingchao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Daoyuan Huang
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Inuzuka
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Wenyi Wei
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Huang F, Zhao N, Cai P, Hou M, Yang S, Zheng B, Ma Q, Jiang J, Gai X, Mao Y, Wang L, Hu Z, Zha X, Liu F, Zhang H. Active AKT2 stimulation of SREBP1/SCD1-mediated lipid metabolism boosts hepatosteatosis and cancer. Transl Res 2024; 268:51-62. [PMID: 38244769 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2024.01.005] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Due to soared obesity population worldwide, hepatosteatosis is becoming a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Undertaken molecular events during the progression of steatosis to liver cancer are thus under intensive investigation. In this study, we demonstrated that high-fat diet potentiated mouse liver AKT2. Hepatic AKT2 hyperactivation through gain-of-function mutation of Akt2 (Akt2E17K) caused spontaneous hepatosteatosis, injury, inflammation, fibrosis, and eventually HCC in mice. AKT2 activation also exacerbated lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine hydrochloride-induced injury/inflammation and N-Nitrosodiethylamine (DEN)-induced HCC. A positive correlation between AKT2 activity and SCD1 expression was observed in human HCC samples. Activated AKT2 enhanced the production of monounsaturated fatty acid which was dependent on SREBP1 upregulation of SCD1. Blockage of active SREBP1 and ablation of SCD1 reduced steatosis, inflammation, and tumor burden in DEN-treated Akt2E17K mice. Therefore, AKT2 activation is crucial for the development of steatosis-associated HCC which can be treated with blockage of AKT2-SREBP1-SCD1 signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuqiang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China; Department of Blood Transfusion, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Pei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mengjie Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuhui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Bohao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jingpeng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochen Gai
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yilei Mao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lianmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongdong Hu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Zha
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fangming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Hongbing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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5
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Gao M, Shi J, Xiao X, Yao Y, Chen X, Wang B, Zhang J. PD-1 regulation in immune homeostasis and immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216726. [PMID: 38401888 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216726] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Harnessing the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis is pivotal in autoimmunity and cancer immunotherapy. PD-1 receptors on immune cells engage with one of its ligands, PD-L1 or PD-L2, expressed on antigen-presenting cells or tumor cells, driving T-cell dysfunction and tumor immune escape. Thus, targeting PD-1/PD-L1 revitalizes cytotoxic T cells for cancer elimination. However, a majority of cancer patients don't respond to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade, and the underlying mechanisms remain partially understood. Recent studies have revealed that PD-1 expression levels or modifications impact the effectiveness of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms governing PD-1 expression and modifications is crucial for innovating therapeutic strategies to enhance the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition. This article presents a comprehensive overview of advancements in PD-1 regulation and highlights their potential in modulating immune homeostasis and cancer immunotherapy, aiming to refine clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minling Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiangling Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yingmeng Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Chongqing University Medical School, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Jinfang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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6
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Jin C, Einig E, Xu W, Kollampally RB, Schlosser A, Flentje M, Popov N. The dimeric deubiquitinase USP28 integrates 53BP1 and MYC functions to limit DNA damage. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3011-3030. [PMID: 38227944 PMCID: PMC11024517 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA replication is a major source of endogenous DNA damage in tumor cells and a key target of cellular response to genotoxic stress. DNA replication can be deregulated by oncoproteins, such as transcription factor MYC, aberrantly activated in many human cancers. MYC is stringently regulated by the ubiquitin system - for example, ubiquitination controls recruitment of the elongation factor PAF1c, instrumental in MYC activity. Curiously, a key MYC-targeting deubiquitinase USP28 also controls cellular response to DNA damage via the mediator protein 53BP1. USP28 forms stable dimers, but the biological role of USP28 dimerization is unknown. We show here that dimerization limits USP28 activity and restricts recruitment of PAF1c by MYC. Expression of monomeric USP28 stabilizes MYC and promotes PAF1c recruitment, leading to ectopic DNA synthesis and replication-associated DNA damage. USP28 dimerization is stimulated by 53BP1, which selectively binds USP28 dimers. Genotoxic stress diminishes 53BP1-USP28 interaction, promotes disassembly of USP28 dimers and stimulates PAF1c recruitment by MYC. This triggers firing of DNA replication origins during early response to genotoxins and exacerbates DNA damage. We propose that dimerization of USP28 prevents ectopic DNA replication at transcriptionally active chromatin to maintain genome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Jin
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pulmonology, University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 ‘Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’ (iFIT), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elias Einig
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pulmonology, University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 ‘Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’ (iFIT), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wenshan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ravi Babu Kollampally
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pulmonology, University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 ‘Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’ (iFIT), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlosser
- Rudolf Virchow Center, Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str 2, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Flentje
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nikita Popov
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pulmonology, University Hospital Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 ‘Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies’ (iFIT), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Zhong Z, Virshup DM. Recurrent mutations in tumor suppressor FBXW7 bypass Wnt/β-catenin addiction in cancer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk1031. [PMID: 38569029 PMCID: PMC10990278 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk1031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Pathologic Wnt/β-catenin signaling drives various cancers, leading to multiple approaches to drug this pathway. Appropriate patient selection can maximize success of these interventions. Wnt ligand addiction is a druggable vulnerability in RNF43-mutant/RSPO-fusion cancers. However, pharmacologically targeting the biogenesis of Wnt ligands, e.g., with PORCN inhibitors, has shown mixed therapeutic responses, possibly due to tumor heterogeneity. Here, we show that the tumor suppressor FBXW7 is frequently mutated in RNF43-mutant/RSPO-fusion tumors, and FBXW7 mutations cause intrinsic resistance to anti-Wnt therapies. Mechanistically, FBXW7 inactivation stabilizes multiple oncoproteins including Cyclin E and MYC and antagonizes the cytostatic effect of Wnt inhibitors. Moreover, although FBXW7 mutations do not mitigate β-catenin degradation upon Wnt inhibition, FBXW7-mutant RNF43-mutant/RSPO-fusion cancers instead lose dependence on β-catenin signaling, accompanied by dedifferentiation and loss of lineage specificity. These FBXW7-mutant Wnt/β-catenin-independent tumors are susceptible to multi-cyclin-dependent kinase inhibition. An in-depth understanding of primary resistance to anti-Wnt/β-catenin therapies allows for more appropriate patient selection and use of alternative mechanism-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhong
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - David M. Virshup
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Kasturirangan S, Nancarrow DJ, Shah A, Lagisetty KH, Lawrence TS, Beer DG, Ray D. Isoform alterations in the ubiquitination machinery impacting gastrointestinal malignancies. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:194. [PMID: 38453895 PMCID: PMC10920915 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06575-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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The advancement of RNAseq and isoform-specific expression platforms has led to the understanding that isoform changes can alter molecular signaling to promote tumorigenesis. An active area in cancer research is uncovering the roles of ubiquitination on spliceosome assembly contributing to transcript diversity and expression of alternative isoforms. However, the effects of isoform changes on functionality of ubiquitination machineries (E1, E2, E3, E4, and deubiquitinating (DUB) enzymes) influencing onco- and tumor suppressor protein stabilities is currently understudied. Characterizing these changes could be instrumental in improving cancer outcomes via the identification of novel biomarkers and targetable signaling pathways. In this review, we focus on highlighting reported examples of direct, protein-coded isoform variation of ubiquitination enzymes influencing cancer development and progression in gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. We have used a semi-automated system for identifying relevant literature and applied established systems for isoform categorization and functional classification to help structure literature findings. The results are a comprehensive snapshot of known isoform changes that are significant to GI cancers, and a framework for readers to use to address isoform variation in their own research. One of the key findings is the potential influence that isoforms of the ubiquitination machinery have on oncoprotein stability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Derek J Nancarrow
- Surgery - Section of Thoracic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Ayush Shah
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kiran H Lagisetty
- Surgery - Section of Thoracic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Theodore S Lawrence
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - David G Beer
- Surgery - Section of Thoracic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Dipankar Ray
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Patel MM, Gerakopoulos V, Petsouki E, Zimmerman KA, Tsiokas L. Nephronophthisis-associated FBW7 mediates cyst-dependent decline of renal function in ADPKD. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.29.582788. [PMID: 38464230 PMCID: PMC10925305 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.29.582788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Nephronophthisis (NPHP) and autosomal dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) are two genetically distinct forms of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), yet both diseases present with kidney cysts and a gradual decline in renal function. Prevailing dogma in PKD is that changes in kidney architecture account for the decline in kidney function, but the molecular/cellular basis of such coupling is unknown. To address this question, we induced a form of proteome reprogramming by deleting Fbxw7 encoding FBW7, the recognition receptor of the SCF FBW7 E3 ubiquitin ligase in different segments of the kidney tubular system. Deletion of Fbxw7 in the medulla led to a juvenile-adult NPHP-like phenotype, where the decline in renal function was due to SOX9-mediated interstitial fibrosis rather than cystogenesis. In contrast, the decline of renal function in ADPKD is coupled to cystic expansion via the abnormal accumulation of FBW7 in the proximal tubules and other cell types in the renal cortex. We propose that FBW7 functions at the apex of a protein network that determines renal function in ADPKD by sensing architectural changes induced by cystic expansion.
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Xiao Y, Liu R, Li N, Li Y, Huang X. Role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system on macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31180. [PMID: 38219045 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31180] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key components of the tumor microenvironment, and their different polarization states play multiple roles in tumors by secreting cytokines, chemokines, and so on, which are closely related to tumor development. In addition, the enrichment of TAMs is often associated with poor prognosis of tumors. Thus, targeting TAMs is a potential tumor treatment strategy, in which therapeutic approaches such as reducing TAMs numbers, remodeling TAMs phenotypes, and altering their functions are being extensively investigated. Meanwhile, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), an important mechanism of protein hydrolysis in eukaryotic cells, participates in cellular processes by regulating the activity and stability of key proteins. Interestingly, UPS plays a dual role in the process of tumor development, and its role in TAMs deserve to be investigated in depth. This review builds on this foundation to further explore the multiple roles of UPS on TAMs and identifies a promising approach to treat tumors by targeting TAMs with UPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xiao
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ruiqian Liu
- School of Future Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Na Li
- School of Future Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of Anesthesiology and Pain, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Kwon J, Zhang J, Mok B, Allsup S, Kim C, Toretsky J, Han C. USP13 drives lung squamous cell carcinoma by switching lung club cell lineage plasticity. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:204. [PMID: 38093367 PMCID: PMC10717271 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01892-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is associated with high mortality and limited targeted therapies. USP13 is one of the most amplified genes in LUSC, yet its role in lung cancer is largely unknown. Here, we established a novel mouse model of LUSC by overexpressing USP13 on KrasG12D/+; Trp53flox/flox background (KPU). KPU-driven lung squamous tumors faithfully recapitulate key pathohistological, molecular features, and cellular pathways of human LUSC. We found that USP13 altered lineage-determining factors such as NKX2-1 and SOX2 in club cells of the airway and reinforced the fate of club cells to squamous carcinoma development. We showed a strong molecular association between USP13 and c-MYC, leading to the upregulation of squamous programs in murine and human lung cancer cells. Collectively, our data demonstrate that USP13 is a molecular driver of lineage plasticity in club cells and provide mechanistic insight that may have potential implications for the treatment of LUSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntae Kwon
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Jinmin Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Boram Mok
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Samuel Allsup
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Chul Kim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington D.C, USA
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Jeffrey Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington D.C, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Washington D.C, USA
| | - Cecil Han
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington D.C, USA.
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington D.C, USA.
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12
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Song Y, Zhao X, Qu H, Su Y, He R, Chen L, Fang L, Li J, Zou Z, He J, Li Z, Xu Y, Chen X, Cheng H, Xu Y, Wang Q, Lai L. Epigenetic Regulation of IL-23 by E3 Ligase FBXW7 in Dendritic Cells Is Critical for Psoriasis-like Inflammation. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 211:1701-1713. [PMID: 37843504 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs), a driver of psoriasis pathogenesis, produce IL-23 and trigger IL-23/IL-17 cytokine axis activation. However, the mechanisms regulating IL-23 induction remain unclear. In the current study, we found that mice with E3 ligase FBXW7 deficiency in DCs show reduced skin inflammation correlated with the reduction of IL-23/IL-17 axis cytokines in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model. Fbxw7 deficiency results in decreased production of IL-23 in DCs. FBXW7 interacts with the lysine N-methyltransferase suppressor of variegation 39 homolog 2 (SUV39H2), which catalyzes the trimethylation of histone H3 Lys9 (H3K9) during transcription regulation. FBXW7 mediates the ubiquitination and degradation of SUV39H2, thus decreasing H3K9m3 deposition on the Il23a promoter. The Suv39h2 knockout mice displayed exacerbated skin inflammation with the IL-23/IL-17 axis overactivating in the psoriasis model. Taken together, our results indicate that FBXW7 increases IL-23 expression in DCs by degrading SUV39H2, thereby aggravating psoriasis-like inflammation. Inhibition of FBXW7 or the FBXW7/SUV39H2/IL-23 axis may represent a novel therapeutic approach to psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinjing Song
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangtong Zhao
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Qu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yixin Su
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rukun He
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Luxia Chen
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lutong Fang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziqi Zou
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia He
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zilong Li
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yaohan Xu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Qingqing Wang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Lai
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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13
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Nair VM, Sabu AS, Hussain A, Kombarakkaran DP, Lakshmi RB, Manna TK. E3-ubiquitin ligase, FBXW7 regulates mitotic progression by targeting BubR1 for ubiquitin-mediated degradation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:374. [PMID: 38008853 PMCID: PMC11072012 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05019-9] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Faithful chromosome segregation requires correct attachment of kinetochores with the spindle microtubules. Erroneously-attached kinetochores recruit proteins to activate Spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), which senses the errors and signals cells to delay anaphase progression for error correction. Temporal control of the levels of SAC activating-proteins is critical for checkpoint activation and silencing, but its mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we show that E3 ubiquitin ligase, SCF-FBXW7 targets BubR1 for ubiquitin-mediated degradation and thereby controls SAC in human cells. Depletion of FBXW7 results in prolonged metaphase arrest with increased stabilization of BubR1 at kinetochores. Similar kinetochore stabilization is also observed for BubR1-interacting protein, CENP-E. FBXW7 induced ubiquitination of both BubR1 and the BubR1-interacting kinetochore-targeting domain of CENP-E, but CENP-E domain degradation is dependent on BubR1. Interestingly, Cdk1 inhibition disrupts FBXW7-mediated BubR1 targeting and further, phospho-resistant mutation of Cdk1-targeted phosphorylation site, Thr 620 impairs BubR1-FBXW7 interaction and FBXW7-mediated BubR1 ubiquitination, supporting its role as a phosphodegron for FBXW7. The results demonstrate SCF-FBXW7 as a key regulator of spindle assembly checkpoint that controls stability of BubR1 and its associated CENP-E at kinetochores. They also support that upstream Cdk1 specific BubR1 phosphorylation signals the ligase to activate the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu M Nair
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - Amit Santhu Sabu
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - Ahmed Hussain
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - Delvin P Kombarakkaran
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - R Bhagya Lakshmi
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - Tapas K Manna
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India.
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14
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Wang W, Jiang K, Liu X, Li J, Zhou W, Wang C, Cui J, Liang T. FBXW7 and human tumors: mechanisms of drug resistance and potential therapeutic strategies. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1278056. [PMID: 38027013 PMCID: PMC10680170 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1278056] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug therapy, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy, stands as the foremost therapeutic approach for contemporary human malignancies. However, increasing drug resistance during antineoplastic therapy has become a substantial barrier to favorable outcomes in cancer patients. To enhance the effectiveness of different cancer therapies, an in-depth understanding of the unique mechanisms underlying tumor drug resistance and the subsequent surmounting of antitumor drug resistance is required. Recently, F-box and WD Repeat Domain-containing-7 (FBXW7), a recognized tumor suppressor, has been found to be highly associated with tumor therapy resistance. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the underlying mechanisms through which FBXW7 facilitates the development of drug resistance in cancer. Additionally, this review elucidates the role of FBXW7 in therapeutic resistance of various types of human tumors. The strategies and challenges implicated in overcoming tumor therapy resistance by targeting FBXW7 are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tingting Liang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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15
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Xia H, Dufour CR, Medkour Y, Scholtes C, Chen Y, Guluzian C, B'chir W, Giguère V. Hepatocyte FBXW7-dependent activity of nutrient-sensing nuclear receptors controls systemic energy homeostasis and NASH progression in male mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6982. [PMID: 37914694 PMCID: PMC10620240 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42785-3] [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: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is epidemiologically associated with obesity and diabetes and can lead to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma if left untreated. The intricate signaling pathways that orchestrate hepatocyte energy metabolism and cellular stress, intrahepatic cell crosstalk, as well as interplay between peripheral tissues remain elusive and are crucial for the development of anti-NASH therapies. Herein, we reveal E3 ligase FBXW7 as a key factor regulating hepatic catabolism, stress responses, systemic energy homeostasis, and NASH pathogenesis with attenuated FBXW7 expression as a feature of advanced NASH. Multiomics and pharmacological intervention showed that FBXW7 loss-of-function in hepatocytes disrupts a metabolic transcriptional axis conjointly controlled by the nutrient-sensing nuclear receptors ERRα and PPARα, resulting in suppression of fatty acid oxidation, elevated ER stress, apoptosis, immune infiltration, fibrogenesis, and ultimately NASH progression in male mice. These results provide the foundation for developing alternative strategies co-targeting ERRα and PPARα for the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xia
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Catherine R Dufour
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Younes Medkour
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Charlotte Scholtes
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Yonghong Chen
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Christina Guluzian
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Wafa B'chir
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Vincent Giguère
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada.
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16
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Brown M, Leon A, Kedzierska K, Moore C, Belnoue‐Davis HL, Flach S, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Lewis A, Bosse T, Tomlinson I, Church DN. Functional analysis reveals driver cooperativity and novel mechanisms in endometrial carcinogenesis. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e17094. [PMID: 37589076 PMCID: PMC10565641 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202217094] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
High-risk endometrial cancer has poor prognosis and is increasing in incidence. However, understanding of the molecular mechanisms which drive this disease is limited. We used genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM) to determine the functional consequences of missense and loss of function mutations in Fbxw7, Pten and Tp53, which collectively occur in nearly 90% of high-risk endometrial cancers. We show that Trp53 deletion and missense mutation cause different phenotypes, with the latter a substantially stronger driver of endometrial carcinogenesis. We also show that Fbxw7 missense mutation does not cause endometrial neoplasia on its own, but potently accelerates carcinogenesis caused by Pten loss or Trp53 missense mutation. By transcriptomic analysis, we identify LEF1 signalling as upregulated in Fbxw7/FBXW7-mutant mouse and human endometrial cancers, and in human isogenic cell lines carrying FBXW7 mutation, and validate LEF1 and the additional Wnt pathway effector TCF7L2 as novel FBXW7 substrates. Our study provides new insights into the biology of high-risk endometrial cancer and suggests that targeting LEF1 may be worthy of investigation in this treatment-resistant cancer subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Brown
- Cancer Genomics and Immunology Group, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Oxford NIHR Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
| | - Alicia Leon
- Department of PathologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Kedzierska
- Cancer Genomics and Immunology Group, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Charlotte Moore
- Cancer Genomics and Immunology Group, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Hayley L Belnoue‐Davis
- Gastrointestinal Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Susanne Flach
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryLMU KlinikumMunichGermany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner SiteMunichGermany
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology LaboratoryNational Institute of Environmental Health SciencesResearch Triangle ParkNCUSA
| | - Annabelle Lewis
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Tjalling Bosse
- Department of PathologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Ian Tomlinson
- Institute of Genetics and CancerThe University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - David N Church
- Cancer Genomics and Immunology Group, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Oxford NIHR Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
- Oxford Cancer Centre, Churchill HospitalOxford University Hospitals Foundation NHS TrustOxfordUK
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17
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Chen J, Zhang X, Tan X, Liu P. Somatic gain-of-function mutations in BUD13 promote oncogenesis by disrupting Fbw7 function. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20222056. [PMID: 37382881 PMCID: PMC10309187 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20222056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations occurring on key enzymes are extensively studied and targeted therapies are developed with clinical promises. However, context-dependent enzyme function through distinct substrates complicated targeting a given enzyme. Here, we develop an algorithm to elucidate a new class of somatic mutations occurring on enzyme-recognizing motifs that cancer may hijack to facilitate tumorigenesis. We validate BUD13-R156C and -R230Q mutations evading RSK3-mediated phosphorylation with enhanced oncogenicity in promoting colon cancer growth. Further mechanistic studies reveal BUD13 as an endogenous Fbw7 inhibitor that stabilizes Fbw7 oncogenic substrates, while cancerous BUD13-R156C or -R230Q interferes with Fbw7Cul1 complex formation. We also find this BUD13 regulation plays a critical role in responding to mTOR inhibition, which can be used to guide therapy selections. We hope our studies reveal the landscape of enzyme-recognizing motif mutations with a publicly available resource and provide novel insights for somatic mutations cancer hijacks to promote tumorigenesis with the potential for patient stratification and cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Chen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Xianming Tan
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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18
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Li J, Xian L, Zhu Z, Wang Y, Zhang W, Zheng R, Xue W, Li J. Role of CELF2 in ferroptosis: Potential targets for cancer therapy (Review). Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:88. [PMID: 37594127 PMCID: PMC10500222 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5291] [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: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a novel form of regulated cellular necrosis that plays a critical role in promoting cancer progression and developing drug resistance. The main characteristic of ferroptosis is iron‑dependent lipid peroxidation caused by excess intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. CUGBP ELAV‑like family number 2 (CELF2) is an RNA‑binding protein that is downregulated in various types of cancer and is associated with poor patient prognoses. CELF2 can directly bind mRNA to a variety of ferroptosis control factors; however, direct evidence of the regulatory role of CELF2 in ferroptosis is currently limited. The aim of the present review was to summarise the findings of previous studies on CELF2 and its role in regulating cellular redox homeostasis. The present review may provide insight into the possible mechanisms through which CELF2 affects ferroptosis and to provide recommendations for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xian
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zifeng Zhu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wenlei Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Ruipeng Zheng
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wang Xue
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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19
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Grafals-Ruiz N, Sánchez-Álvarez AO, Santana-Rivera Y, Lozada-Delgado EL, Rabelo-Fernandez RJ, Rios-Vicil CI, Valiyeva F, Vivas-Mejia PE. MicroRNA-92b targets tumor suppressor gene FBXW7 in glioblastoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1249649. [PMID: 37752997 PMCID: PMC10518455 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1249649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and lethal primary brain tumor. Despite limited treatment options, the overall survival of GBM patients has shown minimal improvement over the past two decades. Factors such as delayed cancer diagnosis, tumor heterogeneity, cancer stem cell survival, infiltrative nature of GBM cells, metabolic reprogramming, and development of therapy resistance contribute to treatment failure. To address these challenges, multitargeted therapies are urgently needed for improved GBM treatment outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression. Dysregulated miRNAs have been identified in GBM, playing roles in tumor initiation, progression, and maintenance. Among these miRNAs, miR-92b (miRNA-92b-3p) has been found to be overexpressed in various cancers, including GBM. However, the specific target genes of miR-92b and its therapeutic potential in GBM remain poorly explored. Methods Samples encompassed T98G, U87, and A172 human GBM cell lines, GBM tumors from Puerto Rican patients, and murine tumors. In-situ hybridization (ISH) assessed miR-92b expression in patient tumors. Transient and stable transfections modified miR-92b levels in GBM cell lines. Real-time PCR gauged gene expressions. Caspase 3 and Trypan Blue assays evaluated apoptosis and viability. Bioinformatics tools (TargetScanHuman 8.0, miRDB, Diana tools, miRWalk) predicted targets. Luciferase assays and Western Blots validated miRNA-target interactions. A subcutaneous GBM Xenograft mouse model received intraperitoneal NC-OMIs or miR92b-OMIs encapsulated in liposomes, three-times per week for two weeks. Analysis utilized GraphPad Prism 8; statistical significance was assessed using 2-tailed, unpaired Student's t-test and two-way ANOVA as required. Results This study investigated the expression of miR-92b in GBM tumors compared to normal brain tissue samples, revealing a significant upregulation. Inhibition of miR-92b using oligonucleotide microRNA inhibitors (OMIs) suppressed GBM cell growth, migration, and induced apoptosis, while ectopic expression of miR-92b yielded opposite effects. Systemic administration of liposomal-miR92b-OMIs in GBM xenograft mice resulted in reductions in tumor volume and weight. Subsequent experiments identified F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7 (FBXW7) as a direct target gene of miR-92b in GBM cells. Discussion FBXW7 acts as a tumor suppressor gene in various cancer types, and analysis of patient data demonstrated that GBM patients with higher FBXW7 mRNA levels had significantly better overall survival compared to those with lower levels. Taken together, our findings suggest that the dysregulated expression of miR-92b in GBM contributes to tumor progression by targeting FBXW7. These results highlight the potential of miR-92b as a therapeutic target for GBM. Further exploration and development of miR-92b-targeted therapies may offer a novel approach to improve treatment outcomes in GBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilmary Grafals-Ruiz
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Department of Physiology, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Yasmarie Santana-Rivera
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Dentistry School, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Eunice L. Lozada-Delgado
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Departments of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Robert J. Rabelo-Fernandez
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Departments of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Fatima Valiyeva
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Pablo E. Vivas-Mejia
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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20
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Wei W, Qin B, Wen W, Zhang B, Luo H, Wang Y, Xu H, Xie X, Liu S, Jiang X, Wang M, Tang Q, Zhang J, Yang R, Fan Z, Lyu H, Lin J, Li K, Lee MH. FBXW7β loss-of-function enhances FASN-mediated lipogenesis and promotes colorectal cancer growth. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:187. [PMID: 37202390 PMCID: PMC10195794 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01405-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Continuous de novo fatty acid synthesis is required for the biosynthetic demands of tumor. FBXW7 is a highly mutated gene in CRC, but its biological functions in cancer are not fully characterized. Here, we report that FBXW7β, a FBXW7 isoform located in the cytoplasm and frequently mutated in CRC, is an E3 ligase of fatty acid synthase (FASN). Cancer-specific FBXW7β mutations that could not degrade FASN can lead to sustained lipogenesis in CRC. COP9 signalosome subunit 6 (CSN6), an oncogenic marker of CRC, increases lipogenesis via interacting with and stabilizing FASN. Mechanistic studies show that CSN6 associates with both FBXW7β and FASN, and antagonizes FBXW7β's activity by enhancing FBXW7β autoubiquitination and degradation, which in turn prevents FBXW7β-mediated FASN ubiquitination and degradation, thereby regulating lipogenesis positively. Both CSN6 and FASN are positively correlated in CRC, and CSN6-FASN axis, regulated by EGF, is responsible for poor prognosis of CRC. The EGF-CSN6-FASN axis promotes tumor growth and implies a treatment strategy of combination of orlistat and cetuximab. Patient-derived xenograft experiments prove the effectiveness of employing orlistat and cetuximab combination in suppressing tumor growth for CSN6/FASN-high CRC. Thus, CSN6-FASN axis reprograms lipogenesis to promote tumor growth and is a target for cancer intervening strategy in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Baifu Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Weijie Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Boyu Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Haidan Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Yuzhi Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xiaoshan Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Sicheng Liu
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Second Department of Medical Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Mengan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Qin Tang
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Jiayu Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Runxiang Yang
- Second Department of Medical Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Zongmin Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Haiwen Lyu
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Junzhong Lin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Kai Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
| | - Mong-Hong Lee
- Guangdong Provincial Key laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Disease, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
- Department of Oncology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
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21
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Di Fiore R, Suleiman S, Drago-Ferrante R, Subbannayya Y, Suleiman S, Vasileva-Slaveva M, Yordanov A, Pentimalli F, Giordano A, Calleja-Agius J. The Role of FBXW7 in Gynecologic Malignancies. Cells 2023; 12:1415. [PMID: 37408248 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7 (FBXW7) protein has been shown to regulate cellular growth and act as a tumor suppressor. This protein, also known as FBW7, hCDC4, SEL10 or hAGO, is encoded by the gene FBXW7. It is a crucial component of the Skp1-Cullin1-F-box (SCF) complex, which is a ubiquitin ligase. This complex aids in the degradation of many oncoproteins, such as cyclin E, c-JUN, c-MYC, NOTCH, and MCL1, via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). The FBXW7 gene is commonly mutated or deleted in numerous types of cancer, including gynecologic cancers (GCs). Such FBXW7 mutations are linked to a poor prognosis due to increased treatment resistance. Hence, detection of the FBXW7 mutation may possibly be an appropriate diagnostic and prognostic biomarker that plays a central role in determining suitable individualized management. Recent studies also suggest that, under specific circumstances, FBXW7 may act as an oncogene. There is mounting evidence indicating that the aberrant expression of FBXW7 is involved in the development of GCs. The aim of this review is to give an update on the role of FBXW7 as a potential biomarker and also as a therapeutic target for novel treatments, particularly in the management of GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Fiore
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Sherif Suleiman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
| | | | - Yashwanth Subbannayya
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Sarah Suleiman
- Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, Leytonstone, London E11 1NR, UK
| | - Mariela Vasileva-Slaveva
- Department of Breast Surgery, "Dr. Shterev" Hospital, 1330 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
- Bulgarian Breast and Gynecological Cancer Association, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Angel Yordanov
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Medical University Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
| | - Francesca Pentimalli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University "Giuseppe DeGennaro", 70010 Casamassima, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
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22
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Yang Q, Dang H, Liu J, Wang X, Wang J, Lan X, Ji M, Xing M, Hou P. Hypoxia switches TET1 from being tumor-suppressive to oncogenic. Oncogene 2023; 42:1634-1648. [PMID: 37020036 PMCID: PMC10181935 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02659-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
The classical oxidizing enzymatic activity of Ten Eleven Translocation 1 (TET1) and its tumor suppressor role are well known. Here, we find that high TET1 expression is associated with poor patient survival in solid cancers often having hypoxia, which is inconsistent with its tumor suppressor role. Through a series of in vitro and in vivo studies, using thyroid cancer as a model, we demonstrate that TET1 plays a tumor suppressor function in normoxia and, surprisingly, an oncogenic function in hypoxia. Mechanistically, TET1 mediates HIF1α-p300 interaction by acting as a co-activator of HIF1α to promote CK2B transcription under hypoxia, which is independent of its enzymatic activity; CK2 activates the AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway to promote oncogenesis. Activated AKT/GSK3β signaling in turn maintains HIF1α at elevated levels by preventing its K48-linked ubiquitination and degradation, creating a feedback loop to enhance the oncogenicity of TET1 in hypoxia. Thus, this study uncovers a novel oncogenic mechanism in which TET1 promotes oncogenesis and cancer progression through a non-enzymatic interaction between TET1 and HIF1α in hypoxia, providing novel therapeutic targeting implications for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yang
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
| | - Hui Dang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Jiaxin Liu
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Xingye Wang
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
- Department of Structural Heart Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Jingyuan Wang
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Xinhui Lan
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Meiju Ji
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
| | - Mingzhao Xing
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Peng Hou
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China.
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23
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Liu Y, Chen H, Bao H, Zhang J, Wu R, Zhu L. Comprehensive characterization of FBXW7 mutational and clinicopathological profiles in human colorectal cancers. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1154432. [PMID: 37064111 PMCID: PMC10091464 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1154432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundFBXW7 is recognized as a critical tumor suppressor gene and a component of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, mediating the degradation of multiple oncogenic proteins, including c-MYC, Cyclin E, c-Jun, Notch, p53. Around 16% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients carried FBXW7 somatic mutations, while a comprehensive characterization of FBXW7 somatic mutations in CRC is still lacking.MethodsColorectal cancer patients with tumor samples and matching white blood cell samples in the past five years were screened and DNA sequenced. DNA sequencing data of MSK MetTropism cohort and RNA sequencing data of TCGA COAD cohort were analyzed.ResultsWe discovered that the FBXW7 mutations were associated with higher tumor mutation burden (TMB), higher microsatellite instability (MSI) score, and lower chromosomal instability (CIN) score. Patients with FBXW7 mutations showed better overall survival (HR: 0.67; 95%CI: 0.55-0.80, P < 0.001). However, patients with FBXW7 R465C mutation displayed worse overall survival in multi-variate cox analysis when compared with patients carrying other FBXW7 mutations (HR: 1.6; 95%CI: 1.13-3.1, P = 0.015), and with all other patients (HR: 1.87; 95%CI: 0.99-2.5, P = 0.053). Moreover, in MSI patients, the FBXW7 mutated group showed higher M1 macrophage, CD8+ T cell, and regulatory T cell (Tregs) infiltration rates, and significant enrichment of multiple immune-related gene sets, including interferon-gamma response, interferon-alpha response, IL6 JAK STAT3 signaling, p53 pathway.ConclusionThis analysis comprehensively identified FBXW7 alterations in colorectal cancer patients and uncovered the molecular, clinicopathological, and immune-related patterns of FBXW7-altered CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hanlin Chen
- Geneseeq Research Institute, Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Hua Bao
- Geneseeq Research Institute, Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhang
- Geneseeq Research Institute, Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Runda Wu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Runda Wu, ; Lingjun Zhu,
| | - Lingjun Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Runda Wu, ; Lingjun Zhu,
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24
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Kang HS, Park HY, Lim H, Son IT, Kim MJ, Kim NY, Kim MJ, Nam ES, Cho SJ, Kwon MJ. Different miRNAs Related to FBXW7 Mutations or High Mitotic Indices Contribute to Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Pilot Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076329. [PMID: 37047300 PMCID: PMC10093831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that miRNA may be involved in the development of rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). We explored the frequency of clinicopathologically relevant mutations and miRNA expression in rectal NETs to examine molecular profiles related to prognosis and behavior. Twenty-four eligible specimens with endoscopically excised rectal NETs were selected. Next-generation sequencing and an miRNA expression assay were used to evaluate the expression profile relevant to common genetic mutations in rectal NETs. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis predicted that the possible target signaling pathways were correlated with dysregulated miRNAs. Nineteen rectal NETs harbored more than one mutation in the 24 cancer-related genes. Seven miRNAs (hsa-miR-769-5p, hsa-miR-221-3p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, hsa-miR-181c-5p, hsa-miR-1246, hsa-miR-324-5p, and hsa-miR-361-3p) were significantly down-regulated in tumors harboring the FBWX7 mutation. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis showed that up-regulation of these seven miRNAs may result in high mitotic indices, indicating the role of miRNAs in tumor progression. Among the down-regulated miRNAs, hsa-miR-769-5p was strongly correlated with extracellular matrix–receptor interaction and lysine degradation. Among the clinicopathological factors, up-regulated hsa-miR-3934-5p was linked to an increased mitotic count. No change in miRNA expression was associated with a tumor size >1 cm, lymphovascular invasion, or Ki-67 index. In summary, we identified different miRNA signatures involved in FBXW7 mutations or high mitotic indices in rectal NETs, which may play a critical role in tumor behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Suk Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Young Park
- Department of Pathology, Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan 47392, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Il Tae Son
- Department of Surgery, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Radiology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Nan Young Kim
- Hallym Institute of Translational Genomics and Bioinformatics, Hallym University Medical Center, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jeong Kim
- Department of Surgery, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul 05355, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sook Nam
- Department of Pathology, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul 05355, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Jin Cho
- Department of Pathology, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul 05355, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Jung Kwon
- Department of Pathology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang 14068, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence:
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25
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Apte S, Bhutda S, Ghosh S, Sharma K, Barton TE, Dibyachintan S, Sahay O, Roy S, Sinha AR, Adicherla H, Rakshit J, Tang S, Datey A, Santra S, Joseph J, Sasidharan S, Hammerschmidt S, Chakravortty D, Oggioni MR, Santra MK, Neill DR, Banerjee A. An innate pathogen sensing strategy involving ubiquitination of bacterial surface proteins. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade1851. [PMID: 36947610 PMCID: PMC10032600 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Sensing of pathogens by ubiquitination is a critical arm of cellular immunity. However, universal ubiquitination targets on microbes remain unidentified. Here, using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies, we identify the first protein-based ubiquitination substrates on phylogenetically diverse bacteria by unveiling a strategy that uses recognition of degron-like motifs. Such motifs form a new class of intra-cytosolic pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Their incorporation enabled recognition of nonubiquitin targets by host ubiquitin ligases. We find that SCFFBW7 E3 ligase, supported by the regulatory kinase, glycogen synthase kinase 3β, is crucial for effective pathogen detection and clearance. This provides a mechanistic explanation for enhanced risk of infections in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia bearing mutations in F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 protein. We conclude that exploitation of this generic pathogen sensing strategy allows conservation of host resources and boosts antimicrobial immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Apte
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Smita Bhutda
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sourav Ghosh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kuldeep Sharma
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Thomas E. Barton
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, L69 7BE Liverpool, UK
| | - Soham Dibyachintan
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Osheen Sahay
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune 411007, Maharashtra, India
| | - Suvapriya Roy
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Akash Raj Sinha
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Harikrishna Adicherla
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Habsiguda, Hyderabad 500007 Telangana, India
| | - Jyotirmoy Rakshit
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shiying Tang
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Akshay Datey
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Shweta Santra
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Jincy Joseph
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sreeja Sasidharan
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sven Hammerschmidt
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Infection Biology, Interfaculty Institute of Genetics and Functional Genomics, Center for Functional Genomics of Microbes, University of Greifswald, D-17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Dipshikha Chakravortty
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Marco R. Oggioni
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Manas Kumar Santra
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune 411007, Maharashtra, India
| | - Daniel R. Neill
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, L69 7BE Liverpool, UK
| | - Anirban Banerjee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, Maharashtra, India
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26
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Jiménez-Izquierdo R, Morrugares R, Suanes-Cobos L, Correa-Sáez A, Garrido-Rodríguez M, Cerero-Tejero L, Khan OM, de la Luna S, Sancho R, Calzado MA. FBXW7 tumor suppressor regulation by dualspecificity tyrosine-regulated kinase 2. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:202. [PMID: 36934104 PMCID: PMC10024693 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05724-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
FBXW7 is a member of the F-box protein family, which functions as the substrate recognition component of the SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase. FBXW7 is a main tumor suppressor due to its ability to control proteasome-mediated degradation of several oncoproteins such as c-Jun, c-Myc, Cyclin E1, mTOR, and Notch1-IC. FBXW7 inactivation in human cancers results from a somatic mutation or downregulation of its protein levels. This work describes a novel regulatory mechanism for FBXW7 dependent on the serine/threonine protein kinase DYRK2. We show that DYRK2 interacts with and phosphorylates FBXW7 resulting in its proteasome-mediated degradation. DYRK2-dependent FBXW7 destabilization is independent of its ubiquitin ligase activity. The functional analysis demonstrates the existence of DYRK2-dependent regulatory mechanisms for key FBXW7 substrates. Finally, we provide evidence indicating that DYRK2-dependent regulation of FBXW7 protein accumulation contributes to cytotoxic effects in response to chemotherapy agents such as Doxorubicin or Paclitaxel in colorectal cancer cell lines and to BET inhibitors in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines. Altogether, this work reveals a new regulatory axis, DYRK2/FBXW7, which provides an understanding of the role of these two proteins in tumor progression and DNA damage responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Jiménez-Izquierdo
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Rosario Morrugares
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Lucía Suanes-Cobos
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Alejandro Correa-Sáez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Martín Garrido-Rodríguez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Laura Cerero-Tejero
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Omar M Khan
- Hamad Bin Khalifa University, College of Health and Life Sciences Qatar Foundation, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Susana de la Luna
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rocío Sancho
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London, SE10 9RT, UK
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marco A Calzado
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain.
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27
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The chromatin remodeler CHD6 promotes colorectal cancer development by regulating TMEM65-mediated mitochondrial dynamics via EGF and Wnt signaling. Cell Discov 2022; 8:130. [PMID: 36473865 PMCID: PMC9727023 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-022-00478-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein (CHD) family plays critical roles in regulating gene transcription. The family is linked to cancer disease, but the family member's role in tumorigenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we report that CHD6 is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC). CHD6 knockdown inhibited cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis. Consistently, Villin-specific Chd6 knockout in mice attenuates cancer formation in AOM/DSS model. We found that aberrant EGF signals promoted the stability of CHD6 by diminishing ubiquitin-mediated degradation. EGF signal inhibits GSK3β activity, which in turn prevents phosphodegron formation of CHD6, thereby hindering E3 ligase FBXW7-mediated CHD6 ubiquitination and degradation. CHD6's chromatin remodeler activity engages in binding Wnt signaling transcription factor TCF4 to facilitate the transcriptional expression of TMEM65, a mitochondrial inner membrane protein involved in ATP production and mitochondrial dynamics. In addition, Wnt signaling is also an upstream regulator of CHD6. CHD6 promoter contains TCF4 and β-catenin binding site, and CHD6 can be transcriptionally activated by Wnt ligand to facilitate TMEM65 transcription. Thus CHD6-TMEM65 axis can be regulated by both EGF and Wnt signaling pathways through two different mechanisms. We further illustrate that CHD6-TMEM65 axis is deregulated in cancer and that co-administration of Wnt inhibitor LGK974 and the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab largely restricted the growth of patient-derived xenografts of CRC. Targeting CHD6-TMEM65 axis may be effective for cancer intervention.
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Yin L, Zhang J, Sun Y. Early growth response-1 is a new substrate of the GSK3β-FBXW7 axis. Neoplasia 2022; 34:100839. [PMID: 36240645 PMCID: PMC9573921 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2022.100839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
EGR1, a short-lived transcription factor, regulates several biological processes, including cell proliferation and tumor progression. Whether and how EGR1 is regulated by Cullin-RING ligases (CRLs) remains elusive. Here, we report that MLN4924, a small molecule inhibitor of neddylation, causes EGR1 accumulation by inactivating SCFFBXW7 (CRL1), which is a new E3 ligase for EGR1. Specifically, FBXW7 binds to EGR1 via its consensus binding motif/degron, whereas cancer-derived FBXW7 mutants showed a much reduced EGR1 binding. SiRNA-mediated FBXW7 knockdown caused EGR1 accumulation, whereas FBXW7 overexpression reduced EGR1 levels. Likewise, FBXW7 knockdown significantly extended EGR1 protein half-life, while FBXW7 overexpression promotes polyubiquitylation of wild-type EGR1, but not EGR1-S2A mutant with the binding site abrogated. GSK3β kinase is required for the FBXW7-EGR1 binding, and for enhanced EGR1 degradation by wild type FBXW7, but not by FBXW7 mutants. Likewise, GSK3β knockdown or treatment with GSK3β inhibitor significantly increased the EGR1 levels and extended EGR1 protein half-life, while reducing EGR1 polyubiquitylation. Hypoxia exposure reduces the EGR1 levels via enhancing the FBXW7-EGR1 binding, and FBXW7-induced EGR1 polyubiquitylation. Biologically, EGR1 knockdown suppressed cancer cell growth, whereas growth stimulation by FBXW7 knockdown is partially rescued by EGR1 knockdown. Thus, EGR1 is a new substrate of the GSK3β-FBXW7 axis, and the FBXW7-EGR1 axis coordinately regulates growth of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yin
- Cancer Institute of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Jiagui Zhang
- Cancer Institute of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Cancer Institute of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Research Center for Life Science and Human Health, Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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29
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Hänle-Kreidler S, Richter KT, Hoffmann I. The SCF-FBXW7 E3 ubiquitin ligase triggers degradation of histone 3 lysine 4 methyltransferase complex component WDR5 to prevent mitotic slippage. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102703. [PMID: 36395886 PMCID: PMC9764181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102703] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During prolonged mitotic arrest induced by antimicrotubule drugs, cell fate decision is determined by two alternative pathways, one leading to cell death and the other inducing premature escape from mitosis by mitotic slippage. FBWX7, a member of the F-box family of proteins and substrate-targeting subunit of the SKP1-CUL1-F-Box E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, promotes mitotic cell death and prevents mitotic slippage, but molecular details underlying these roles for FBWX7 are unclear. In this study, we report that WDR5 (WD-repeat containing protein 5), a component of the mixed lineage leukemia complex of histone 3 lysine 4 methyltransferases, is a substrate of FBXW7. We determined by coimmunoprecipitation experiments and in vitro binding assays that WDR5 interacts with FBXW7 in vivo and in vitro. SKP1-CUL1-F-Box-FBXW7 mediates ubiquitination of WDR5 and targets it for proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, we find that WDR5 depletion counteracts FBXW7 loss of function by reducing mitotic slippage and polyploidization. In conclusion, our data elucidate a new mechanism in mitotic cell fate regulation, which might contribute to prevent chemotherapy resistance in patients after antimicrotubule drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hänle-Kreidler
- Cell Cycle Control and Carcinogenesis, F045, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kai T. Richter
- Cell Cycle Control and Carcinogenesis, F045, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany,Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ingrid Hoffmann
- Cell Cycle Control and Carcinogenesis, F045, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany,For correspondence: Ingrid Hoffmann
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30
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Zhu H, Wang X, Zhou X, Lu S, Gu G, Liu C. E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7 enhances radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells by inhibiting SOX9 regulation of CDKN1A through ubiquitination. J Transl Med 2022; 102:1203-1213. [PMID: 36775446 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-022-00812-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has high rates of morbidity and mortality. E3 ubiquitin ligase usually has antitumor effects. This study evaluated the mechanism of E3 ligase FBXW7 (F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7) in the radiosensitivity of NSCLC. NCI-H1299 and NCI-H1299R cells were irradiated by 0, 2, 4, and 6 Gy doses of X-ray, respectively. In addition to the measurement of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and γ-H2AX, FBXW7 expression was measured and the interaction between FBXW7 and SOX9 (SRY-box transcription factor 9) was evaluated. Ubiquitination level and protein stability of SOX9 were examined after FBXW7 overexpression. The binding relationship between SOX9 and CDKN1A (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A) was verified. Xenograft tumor model was established to evaluate the effect of FBXW7 on radiosensitivity in vivo. FBXW7 was under-expressed in radioresistant cells. Overexpression of FBXW7 repressed NCI-H1299 and NCI-H1299R cell proliferation and colony formation and increased γ-H2AX-positive foci. Overexpression of FBXW7 increased the ubiquitination level and reduced the protein stability of SOX9. SOX9 bound to the CDKN1A promoter to inhibit CDKN1A expression. FBXW7 inhibited tumorigenesis and apoptosis and enhanced radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells in vivo via the SOX9/CDKN1A axis. Overall, FBXW7 inhibited SOX9 expression by promoting SOX9 ubiquitination and proteasome degradation, suppressing the binding of SOX9 to CDKN1A, and upregulating CDKN1A, thereby improving the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongge Zhu
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiuli Wang
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Suqiong Lu
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Guomin Gu
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Chunling Liu
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.
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31
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Donati G, Amati B. MYC and therapy resistance in cancer: risks and opportunities. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3828-3854. [PMID: 36214609 PMCID: PMC9627787 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The MYC transcription factor, encoded by the c-MYC proto-oncogene, is activated by growth-promoting signals, and is a key regulator of biosynthetic and metabolic pathways driving cell growth and proliferation. These same processes are deregulated in MYC-driven tumors, where they become critical for cancer cell proliferation and survival. As other oncogenic insults, overexpressed MYC induces a series of cellular stresses (metabolic, oxidative, replicative, etc.) collectively known as oncogenic stress, which impact not only on tumor progression, but also on the response to therapy, with profound, multifaceted consequences on clinical outcome. On one hand, recent evidence uncovered a widespread role for MYC in therapy resistance in multiple cancer types, with either standard chemotherapeutic or targeted regimens. Reciprocally, oncogenic MYC imparts a series of molecular and metabolic dependencies to cells, thus giving rise to cancer-specific vulnerabilities that may be exploited to obtain synthetic-lethal interactions with novel anticancer drugs. Here we will review the current knowledge on the links between MYC and therapeutic responses, and will discuss possible strategies to overcome resistance through new, targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Donati
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO) – IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Bruno Amati
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO) – IRCCSMilanItaly
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Signaling pathways and targeted therapies in lung squamous cell carcinoma: mechanisms and clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:353. [PMID: 36198685 PMCID: PMC9535022 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01200-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death across the world. Unlike lung adenocarcinoma, patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) have not benefitted from targeted therapies. Although immunotherapy has significantly improved cancer patients' outcomes, the relatively low response rate and severe adverse events hinder the clinical application of this promising treatment in LSCC. Therefore, it is of vital importance to have a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of LSCC as well as the inner connection among different signaling pathways, which will surely provide opportunities for more effective therapeutic interventions for LSCC. In this review, new insights were given about classical signaling pathways which have been proved in other cancer types but not in LSCC, including PI3K signaling pathway, VEGF/VEGFR signaling, and CDK4/6 pathway. Other signaling pathways which may have therapeutic potentials in LSCC were also discussed, including the FGFR1 pathway, EGFR pathway, and KEAP1/NRF2 pathway. Next, chromosome 3q, which harbors two key squamous differentiation markers SOX2 and TP63 is discussed as well as its related potential therapeutic targets. We also provided some progress of LSCC in epigenetic therapies and immune checkpoints blockade (ICB) therapies. Subsequently, we outlined some combination strategies of ICB therapies and other targeted therapies. Finally, prospects and challenges were given related to the exploration and application of novel therapeutic strategies for LSCC.
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PFKFB4 interacts with FBXO28 to promote HIF-1α signaling in glioblastoma. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:57. [PMID: 36115843 PMCID: PMC9482633 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00433-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain tumor for which there is no cure. The metabolic enzyme 6-Phosphofructo-2-Kinase/Fructose-2,6-Biphosphatase 4 (PFKFB4) is essential for glioblastoma stem-like cell (GSC) survival but its mode of action is unclear. Understanding the role of PFKFB4 in tumor cell survival could allow it to be leveraged in a cancer therapy. Here, we show the importance of PFKFB4 for glioblastoma growth in vivo in an orthotopic patient derived mouse model. In an evaluation of patient tumor samples of different cancer entities, PFKFB4 protein was found to be overexpressed in prostate, lung, colon, mammary and squamous cell carcinoma, with expression level correlating with tumor grade. Gene expression profiling in PFKFB4-silenced GSCs revealed a downregulation of hypoxia related genes and Western blot analysis confirmed a dramatic reduction of HIF (hypoxia inducible factor) protein levels. Through mass spectrometric analysis of immunoprecipitated PFKFB4, we identified the ubiquitin E3 ligase, F-box only protein 28 (FBXO28), as a new interaction partner of PFKFB4. We show that PFKFB4 regulates the ubiquitylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation of HIF-1α, which is mediated by the ubiquitin ligase activity of FBXO28. This newly discovered function of PFKFB4, coupled with its cancer specificity, provides a new strategy for inhibiting HIF-1α in cancer cells. ![]()
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Bengoechea-Alonso MT, Aldaalis A, Ericsson J. Loss of the Fbw7 tumor suppressor rewires cholesterol metabolism in cancer cells leading to activation of the PI3K-AKT signalling axis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:990672. [PMID: 36176395 PMCID: PMC9513553 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.990672] [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: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The sterol regulatory-element binding proteins (SREBPs) are transcription factors controlling cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis and metabolism. There are three SREBP proteins, SREBP1a, SREBP1c and SREBP2, with SREBP1a being the strongest transcription factor. The expression of SREBP1a is restricted to rapidly proliferating cells, including cancer cells. The SREBP proteins are translated as large, inactive precursors bound to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes. These precursors undergo a two-step cleavage process that releases the amino terminal domains of the proteins, which translocate to the nucleus and function as transcription factors. The nuclear forms of the SREBPs are rapidly degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome system in a manner dependent on the Fbw7 ubiquitin ligase. Consequently, inactivation of Fbw7 results in the stabilization of active SREBP1 and SREBP2 and enhanced expression of target genes. We report that the inactivation of Fbw7 in cancer cells blocks the proteolytic maturation of SREBP2. The same is true in cells expressing a cancer-specific loss-of-function Fbw7 protein. Interestingly, the activation of SREBP2 is restored in response to cholesterol depletion, suggesting that Fbw7-deficient cells accumulate cholesterol. Importantly, inactivation of SREBP1 in Fbw7-deficient cells also restores the cholesterol-dependent regulation of SREBP2, suggesting that the stabilization of active SREBP1 molecules could be responsible for the blunted activation of SREBP2 in Fbw7-deficient cancer cells. We suggest that this could be an important negative feedback loop in cancer cells with Fbw7 loss-of-function mutations to protect these cells from the accumulation of toxic levels of cholesterol and/or cholesterol metabolites. Surprisingly, we also found that the inactivation of Fbw7 resulted in the activation of AKT. Importantly, the activation of AKT was dependent on SREBP1 and on the accumulation of cholesterol. Thus, we suggest that the loss of Fbw7 rewires lipid metabolism in cancer cells to support cell proliferation and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria T. Bengoechea-Alonso
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Arwa Aldaalis
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Johan Ericsson
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Johan Ericsson,
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Liu J, Wei L, Hu N, Wang D, Ni J, Zhang S, Liu H, Lv T, Yin J, Ye M, Song Y. FBW7-mediated ubiquitination and destruction of PD-1 protein primes sensitivity to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005116. [PMID: 36104103 PMCID: PMC9476142 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activation of the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) pathway has been extensively described as a pivotal mechanism to escape immune surveillance and elicits suppressive effect on antitumor immunity. Blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction by checkpoint inhibitors has been shown to result in tumor shrinkage and prolong patient survival. However, regulatory machinery for PD-1/PD-L1 expression is largely unknown. Methods We used bioinformatic tools and biochemical methods to investigate the significance of F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBW7) in regulating PD-1 protein stability. By generating a panel of FBW7 and PD-1 encoding plasmids, we expressed FBW7 and PD-1 or their mutants to performed immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting assays. The efficacy of cotargeting FBW7 to enhance antitumor immunity was evaluated in C57BL/6J mice. These laboratory findings were further validated in tumor samples obtained from patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Results We identified FBW7 as a E3 ubiquitin ligase for PD-1 protein, in which FBW7 promotes the K48-linked polyubiquitination of PD-1 protein at Lys233 residue. Cotargeting FBW7 accelerates PD-1 protein degradation and enhances antitumor immunity in vivo. Moreover, we demonstrated that cyclin-dependent kinase 1-mediated phosphorylation of Ser261 residue primes PD-1 protein nucleus translocation and binding with FBW7. Higher expression of FBW7 characterizes a ‘hot’ tumor microenvironment and confers more favorable responses to PD-1 blockade therapy. Conclusions This study highlights the critical role of FBW7 in determining PD-1 protein stability. FBW7 ubiquitinates PD-1 in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, as a consequence, leading to PD-1 protein degradation and cytotoxic lymphocytes infiltrating the tumor microenvironment. Screening FBW7 status would predict clinical response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in patients with NSCLC, and targeting FBW7 is a promising strategy to enhance antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingyun Wei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nan Hu
- Department of Stomatology, the First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juan Ni
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sha Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongbing Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tangfeng Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Yin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingxiang Ye
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Song
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Aldaalis A, Bengoechea-Alonso MT, Ericsson J. The SREBP-dependent regulation of cyclin D1 coordinates cell proliferation and lipid synthesis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:942386. [PMID: 36091143 PMCID: PMC9451027 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.942386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The sterol regulatory-element binding protein (SREBP) family of transcription factors regulates cholesterol, fatty acid, and triglyceride synthesis and metabolism. However, they are also targeted by the ubiquitin ligase Fbw7, a major tumor suppressor, suggesting that they could regulate cell growth. Indeed, enhanced lipid synthesis is a hallmark of many human tumors. Thus, the SREBP pathway has recently emerged as a potential target for cancer therapy. We have previously demonstrated that one of these transcription factors, SREBP1, is stabilized and remains associated with target promoters during mitosis, suggesting that the expression of these target genes could be important as cells enter G1 and transcription is restored. Activation of cyclin D-cdk4/6 complexes is critical for the phosphorylation and inactivation of the retinoblastoma protein (Rb) family of transcriptional repressors and progression through the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Importantly, the cyclin D-cdk4/6-Rb regulatory axis is frequently dysregulated in human cancer. In the current manuscript, we demonstrate that SREBP1 activates the expression of cyclin D1, a coactivator of cdk4 and cdk6, by binding to an E-box in the cyclin D1 promoter. Consequently, inactivation of SREBP1 in human liver and breast cancer cell lines reduces the expression of cyclin D1 and attenuates Rb phosphorylation. Rb phosphorylation in these cells can be rescued by restoring cyclin D1 expression. On the other hand, expression of active SREBP1 induced the expression of cyclin D1 and increased the phosphorylation of Rb in a manner dependent on cyclin D1 and cdk4/6 activity. Inactivation of SREBP1 resulted in reduced expression of cyclin D1, attenuated phosphorylation of Rb, and reduced proliferation. Inactivation of SREBP1 also reduced the insulin-dependent regulation of the cyclin D1 gene. At the same time, SREBP1 is known to play an important role in supporting lipid synthesis in cancer cells. Thus, we propose that the SREBP1-dependent regulation of cyclin D1 coordinates cell proliferation with the enhanced lipid synthesis required to support cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Aldaalis
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maria T. Bengoechea-Alonso
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Johan Ericsson
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Education City, Doha, Qatar
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Johan Ericsson,
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Li D, Jiang S, Zhou X, Si C, Shao P, Jiang Q, Zhu L, Shen L, Meng Q, Yin JC, Shao Y, Sun Y, Yang L. FBXW7 and Its Downstream NOTCH Pathway Could be Potential Indicators of Organ-Free Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 11:783564. [PMID: 35712679 PMCID: PMC9197223 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.783564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Metastasis is associated with a poor prognosis, yet the underlying molecular mechanism(s) remained largely unknown. In this study, a total of 85 CRC patients were included and the primary tumor lesions were evaluated by next-generation sequencing using a targeted panel for genetic aberrations. Patients were sub-divided according to their metastasis pattern into the non-organ metastases (Non-OM) and organ metastases (OM) groups. By comparing the genetic differences between the two groups, we found that mutations in FBXW7 and alterations in its downstream NOTCH signaling pathway were more common in the Non-OM group. Moreover, correlation analysis suggested that FBXW7 mutations were independent of other somatic alterations. The negative associations of alterations in FBXW7 and its downstream NOTCH signaling pathway with CRC organ metastasis were validated in a cohort of 230 patients in the TCGA CRC dataset. Thus, we speculated that the genomic alterations of FBXW7/NOTCH axis might be an independent negative indicator of CRC organ metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongzheng Li
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Shiye Jiang
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Chengshuai Si
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Shao
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Liuqing Zhu
- Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Meng
- Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Jiani C Yin
- Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Shao
- Nanjing Geneseeq Technology Inc., Nanjing, China.,School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yueming Sun
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China & The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University & Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
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Multiple Mechanisms of NOTCH1 Activation in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: NOTCH1 Mutations and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122997. [PMID: 35740661 PMCID: PMC9221163 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Mutations of the NOTCH1 gene are a validated prognostic marker in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and a potential predictive marker for anti-CD20-based therapies. At present, the most frequent pathological alteration of the NOTCH1 gene is due to somatic genetic mutations, which have a multifaceted functional impact. However, beside NOTCH1 mutations, other factors may lead to activation of the NOTCH1 pathway, and these include mutations of FBXW7, MED12, SPEN, SF3B1 as well as other B-cell pathways. Understanding the preferential strategies though which CLL cells hijack NOTCH1 signaling may present important clues for designing targeted treatment strategies for the management of CLL. Abstract The Notch signaling pathway plays a fundamental role for the terminal differentiation of multiple cell types, including B and T lymphocytes. The Notch receptors are transmembrane proteins that, upon ligand engagement, undergo multiple processing steps that ultimately release their intracytoplasmic portion. The activated protein ultimately operates as a nuclear transcriptional co-factor, whose stability is finely regulated. The Notch pathway has gained growing attention in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) because of the high rate of somatic mutations of the NOTCH1 gene. In CLL, NOTCH1 mutations represent a validated prognostic marker and a potential predictive marker for anti-CD20-based therapies, as pathological alterations of the Notch pathway can provide significant growth and survival advantage to neoplastic clone. However, beside NOTCH1 mutation, other events have been demonstrated to perturb the Notch pathway, namely somatic mutations of upstream, or even apparently unrelated, proteins such as FBXW7, MED12, SPEN, SF3B1, as well as physiological signals from other pathways such as the B-cell receptor. Here we review these mechanisms of activation of the NOTCH1 pathway in the context of CLL; the resulting picture highlights how multiple different mechanisms, that might occur under specific genomic, phenotypic and microenvironmental contexts, ultimately result in the same search for proliferative and survival advantages (through activation of MYC), as well as immune escape and therapy evasion (from anti-CD20 biological therapies). Understanding the preferential strategies through which CLL cells hijack NOTCH1 signaling may present important clues for designing targeted treatment strategies for the management of CLL.
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Zhong Z, Harmston N, Wood KC, Madan B, Virshup DM. A p300/GATA6 axis determines differentiation and Wnt dependency in pancreatic cancer models. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e156305. [PMID: 35536676 PMCID: PMC9197518 DOI: 10.1172/jci156305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling regulates the balance between stemness and differentiation in multiple tissues and in cancer. RNF43-mutant pancreatic cancers are dependent on Wnt production, and pharmacologic blockade of the pathway, e.g., by PORCN inhibitors, leads to tumor differentiation. However, primary resistance to these inhibitors has been observed. To elucidate potential mechanisms, we performed in vivo CRISPR screens in PORCN inhibitor-sensitive RNF43-mutant pancreatic cancer xenografts. As expected, genes in the Wnt pathway whose loss conferred drug resistance were identified, including APC, AXIN1, and CTNNBIP1. Unexpectedly, the screen also identified the histone acetyltransferase EP300 (p300), but not its paralog, CREBBP (CBP). We found that EP300 is silenced due to genetic alterations in all the existing RNF43-mutant pancreatic cancer cell lines that are resistant to PORCN inhibitors. Mechanistically, loss of EP300 directly downregulated GATA6 expression, thereby silencing the GATA6-regulated differentiation program and leading to a phenotypic transition from the classical subtype to the dedifferentiated basal-like/squamous subtype of pancreatic cancer. EP300 mutation and loss of GATA6 function bypassed the antidifferentiation activity of Wnt signaling, rendering these cancer cells resistant to Wnt inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhong
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke–NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Department of Physiology, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nathan Harmston
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke–NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Science Division, Yale–NUS College, Singapore
| | - Kris C. Wood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology and
| | - Babita Madan
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke–NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - David M. Virshup
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke–NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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40
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Ubiquitin and Ubiquitin-like Proteins in Cancer, Neurodegenerative Disorders, and Heart Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095053. [PMID: 35563444 PMCID: PMC9105348 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modification (PTM) is an essential mechanism for enhancing the functional diversity of proteins and adjusting their signaling networks. The reversible conjugation of ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin-like proteins (Ubls) to cellular proteins is among the most prevalent PTM, which modulates various cellular and physiological processes by altering the activity, stability, localization, trafficking, or interaction networks of its target molecules. The Ub/Ubl modification is tightly regulated as a multi-step enzymatic process by enzymes specific to this family. There is growing evidence that the dysregulation of Ub/Ubl modifications is associated with various diseases, providing new targets for drug development. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in understanding the roles and therapeutic targets of the Ub and Ubl systems in the onset and progression of human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and heart diseases.
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41
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Xia H, Scholtes C, Dufour CR, Ouellet C, Ghahremani M, Giguère V. Insulin action and resistance are dependent on a GSK3β-FBXW7-ERRα transcriptional axis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2105. [PMID: 35440636 PMCID: PMC9019090 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29722-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin resistance, a harbinger of the metabolic syndrome, is a state of compromised hormonal response resulting from the dysregulation of a wide range of insulin-controlled cellular processes. However, how insulin affects cellular energy metabolism via long-term transcriptional regulation and whether boosting mitochondrial function alleviates insulin resistance remains to be elucidated. Herein we reveal that insulin directly enhances the activity of the nuclear receptor ERRα via a GSK3β/FBXW7 signaling axis. Liver-specific deletion of GSK3β or FBXW7 and mice harboring mutations of ERRα phosphosites (ERRα3SA) co-targeted by GSK3β/FBXW7 result in accumulated ERRα proteins that no longer respond to fluctuating insulin levels. ERRα3SA mice display reprogrammed liver and muscle transcriptomes, resulting in compromised energy homeostasis and reduced insulin sensitivity despite improved mitochondrial function. This crossroad of insulin signaling and transcriptional control by a nuclear receptor offers a framework to better understand the complex cellular processes contributing to the development of insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xia
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Charlotte Scholtes
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Catherine R Dufour
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Carlo Ouellet
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Majid Ghahremani
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Vincent Giguère
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada.
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Zhong B, Zheng J, Wen H, Liao X, Chen X, Rao Y, Yuan P. NEDD4L suppresses PD-L1 expression and enhances anti-tumor immune response in A549 cells. Genes Genomics 2022; 44:1071-1079. [PMID: 35353342 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-022-01238-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) poses a salient threat to public health. E3 ubiquitin ligase commonly functions as an anti-tumor role. OBJECTIVE This study probed the effect of E3 ligase NEDD4L on A549 cells. METHODS NEDD4L expression in NSCLC and its correlation with NSCLC patient's prognosis were predicted and verified. PD-L1 protein level was measured, and the correlation between NEDD4L and PD-L1 was analyzed. The effects of NEDD4L overexpression on the binding of NEDD4L to PD-L1 and ubiquitination level of PD-L1 were examined. Xenograft tumor model was established in mice. The volume and weight of xenograft tumors were recorded. The proportion of CD8+ T cells and contents of IL-2 and INF-γ were detected. RESULTS NEDD4L expression was downregulated in NSCLC tissues and A549 cells, and correlated with poor prognosis of NSCLC patients. PD-L1 was upregulated in NSCLC and negatively correlated with NEDD4L. Overexpression of NEDD4L upregulated ubiquitination level of PD-L1 and reduced protein level of PD-L1. Overexpression of NEDD4L decreased tumor volume and weight and enhanced proportion of CD8+ T cells and contents of IL-2 and INF-γ. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, overexpression of NEDD4L suppressed PD-L1 protein level through ubiquitination, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immune response and retarding NSCLC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Huilan Wen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xinhui Liao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xingxiang Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yunwei Rao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ping Yuan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, No.23, Qingnian Road, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, China.
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Fan J, Bellon M, Ju M, Zhao L, Wei M, Fu L, Nicot C. Clinical significance of FBXW7 loss of function in human cancers. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:87. [PMID: 35346215 PMCID: PMC8962602 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01548-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FBXW7 (F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7) (also referred to as FBW7 or hCDC4) is a component of the Skp1-Cdc53 / Cullin-F-box-protein complex (SCF/β-TrCP). As a member of the F-box protein family, FBXW7 serves a role in phosphorylation-dependent ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of oncoproteins that play critical role(s) in oncogenesis. FBXW7 affects many regulatory functions involved in cell survival, cell proliferation, tumor invasion, DNA damage repair, genomic instability and telomere biology. This thorough review of current literature details how FBXW7 expression and functions are regulated through multiple mechanisms and how that ultimately drives tumorigenesis in a wide array of cell types. The clinical significance of FBXW7 is highlighted by the fact that FBXW7 is frequently inactivated in human lung, colon, and hematopoietic cancers. The loss of FBXW7 can serve as an independent prognostic marker and is significantly correlated with the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents and poorer disease outcomes. Recent evidence shows that genetic mutation of FBXW7 differentially affects the degradation of specific cellular targets resulting in a distinct and specific pattern of activation/inactivation of cell signaling pathways. The clinical significance of FBXW7 mutations in the context of tumor development, progression, and resistance to therapies as well as opportunities for targeted therapies is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong Province, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.,Liaoning Province, China Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Marcia Bellon
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Center for Viral Pathogenesis, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Mingyi Ju
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.,Liaoning Province, China Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.,Liaoning Province, China Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Minjie Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.,Liaoning Province, China Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Liwu Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Christophe Nicot
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Center for Viral Pathogenesis, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
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Shen JZ, Qiu Z, Wu Q, Zhang G, Harris R, Sun D, Rantala J, Barshop WD, Zhao L, Lv D, Won KA, Wohlschlegel J, Sangfelt O, Laman H, Rich JN, Spruck C. A FBXO7/EYA2-SCF FBXW7 axis promotes AXL-mediated maintenance of mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1123-1139.e8. [PMID: 35182481 PMCID: PMC8934274 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A mesenchymal tumor phenotype associates with immunotherapy resistance, although the mechanism is unclear. Here, we identified FBXO7 as a maintenance regulator of mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells. FBXO7 bound and stabilized SIX1 co-transcriptional regulator EYA2, stimulating mesenchymal gene expression and suppressing IFNα/β, chemokines CXCL9/10, and antigen presentation machinery, driven by AXL extracellular ligand GAS6. Ubiquitin ligase SCFFBXW7 antagonized this pathway by promoting EYA2 degradation. Targeting EYA2 Tyr phosphatase activity decreased mesenchymal phenotypes and enhanced cancer cell immunogenicity, resulting in attenuated tumor growth and metastasis, increased infiltration of cytotoxic T and NK cells, and enhanced anti-PD-1 therapy response in mouse tumor models. FBXO7 expression correlated with mesenchymal and immune-suppressive signatures in patients with cancer. An FBXO7-immune gene signature predicted immunotherapy responses. Collectively, the FBXO7/EYA2-SCFFBXW7 axis maintains mesenchymal and immune evasion phenotypes of cancer cells, providing rationale to evaluate FBXO7/EYA2 inhibitors in combination with immune-based therapies to enhance onco-immunotherapy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Z Shen
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Zhixin Qiu
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Qiulian Wu
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Guoxin Zhang
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
| | - Rebecca Harris
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Dahui Sun
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - William D Barshop
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Linjie Zhao
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Deguan Lv
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | | | - James Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Olle Sangfelt
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Heike Laman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Jeremy N Rich
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92037, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Charles Spruck
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Hong X, Wang L, Zhang K, Liu J, Liu JP. Molecular Mechanisms of Alveolar Epithelial Stem Cell Senescence and Senescence-Associated Differentiation Disorders in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Cells 2022; 11:877. [PMID: 35269498 PMCID: PMC8909789 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary senescence is accelerated by unresolved DNA damage response, underpinning susceptibility to pulmonary fibrosis. Recently it was reported that the SARS-Cov-2 viral infection induces acute pulmonary epithelial senescence followed by fibrosis, although the mechanism remains unclear. Here, we examine roles of alveolar epithelial stem cell senescence and senescence-associated differentiation disorders in pulmonary fibrosis, exploring the mechanisms mediating and preventing pulmonary fibrogenic crisis. Notably, the TGF-β signalling pathway mediates alveolar epithelial stem cell senescence by mechanisms involving suppression of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene in pulmonary fibrosis. Alternatively, telomere uncapping caused by stress-induced telomeric shelterin protein TPP1 degradation mediates DNA damage response, pulmonary senescence and fibrosis. However, targeted intervention of cellular senescence disrupts pulmonary remodelling and fibrosis by clearing senescent cells using senolytics or preventing senescence using telomere dysfunction inhibitor (TELODIN). Studies indicate that the development of senescence-associated differentiation disorders is reprogrammable and reversible by inhibiting stem cell replicative senescence in pulmonary fibrosis, providing a framework for targeted intervention of the molecular mechanisms of alveolar stem cell senescence and pulmonary fibrosis. Abbreviations: DPS, developmental programmed senescence; IPF, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; OIS, oncogene-induced replicative senescence; SADD, senescence-associated differentiation disorder; SALI, senescence-associated low-grade inflammation; SIPS, stress-induced premature senescence; TERC, telomerase RNA component; TERT, telomerase reverse transcriptase; TIFs, telomere dysfunction-induced foci; TIS, therapy-induced senescence; VIS, virus-induced senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Hong
- Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, China; (X.H.); (L.W.); (K.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Lihui Wang
- Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, China; (X.H.); (L.W.); (K.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Kexiong Zhang
- Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, China; (X.H.); (L.W.); (K.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jun Liu
- Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, China; (X.H.); (L.W.); (K.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jun-Ping Liu
- Institute of Ageing Research, Hangzhou Normal University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, China; (X.H.); (L.W.); (K.Z.); (J.L.)
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Prahran, VIC 3181, Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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Xu L, Zhu S, Lan Y, Yan M, Jiang Z, Zhu J, Liao G, Ping Y, Xu J, Pang B, Zhang Y, Xiao Y, Li X. Revealing the contribution of somatic gene mutations to shaping tumor immune microenvironment. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6539997. [PMID: 35229870 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Interaction between tumor cells and immune cells determined highly heterogeneous microenvironments across patients, leading to substantial variation in clinical benefits from immunotherapy. Somatic gene mutations were found not only to elicit adaptive immunity but also to influence the composition of tumor immune microenvironment and various processes of antitumor immunity. However, due to an incomplete view of associations between gene mutations and immunophenotypes, how tumor cells shape the immune microenvironment and further determine the clinical benefit of immunotherapy is still unclear. To address this, we proposed a computational approach, inference of mutation effect on immunophenotype by integrated gene set enrichment analysis (MEIGSEA), for tracing back the genomic factor responsible for differences in immunophenotypes. MEIGSEA was demonstrated to accurately identify the previous confirmed immune-associated gene mutations, and systematic evaluation in simulation data further supported its performance. We used MEIGSEA to investigate the influence of driver gene mutations on the infiltration of 22 immune cell types across 19 cancers from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The top associated gene mutations with infiltration of CD8 T cells, such as CASP8, KRAS and EGFR, also showed extensive impact on other immune components; meanwhile, immune effector cells shared critical gene mutations that collaboratively contribute to shaping distinct tumor immune microenvironment. Furthermore, we highlighted the predictive capacity of gene mutations that are positively associated with CD8 T cells for the clinical benefit of immunotherapy. Taken together, we present a computational framework to help illustrate the potential of somatic gene mutations in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Xu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Shiwei Zhu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yujia Lan
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Min Yan
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Zedong Jiang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Jiali Zhu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Gaoming Liao
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yanyan Ping
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Jinyuan Xu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Bo Pang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yunpeng Zhang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China.,Key Laboratory of High Throughput Omics Big Data for Cold Region's Major Diseases in Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yun Xiao
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China.,Key Laboratory of High Throughput Omics Big Data for Cold Region's Major Diseases in Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Xia Li
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China.,Key Laboratory of High Throughput Omics Big Data for Cold Region's Major Diseases in Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
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Skp2 stabilizes Mcl-1 and confers radioresistance in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:249. [PMID: 35301297 PMCID: PMC8930992 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04685-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AbstractOverexpression of Skp2 plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and correlates with poor prognosis in human malignancies. Thus, Skp2 has been proposed as an attractive target for anti-tumor interventions. The expression of Skp2 in human colorectal cancer (CRC) and the role of Skp2 in tumorigenic properties and irradiation sensitivities of CRC cells were examined by anchorage-dependent and -independent growth assays, immunoblot, flow cytometry, immunohistochemical staining, ubiquitination analysis, co-immunoprecipitation assay, CRISPR-Cas9-based gene knockout, and xenograft experiments. Skp2 is highly expressed in CRC patient tissues. Blocking Skp2 expression reduces the tumorigenic properties of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. Depletion of Skp2 confers sensitivity to irradiation of CRC cells. Skp2 deficiency enhances irradiation-induced intrinsic apoptosis by facilitating E3 ligase FBW7-mediated Mcl-1 ubiquitination and degradation. Knockout of Skp2 sensitizes CRC cells to irradiation treatments in vivo. Our findings indicate that Skp2 stabilizes Mcl-1, and targeting Skp2 in combination with traditional radiotherapy might be efficacious in treating CRC.
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Thirmanne HN, Wu F, Janssens DH, Swanger J, Diab A, Feldman H, Amezquita RA, Gottardo R, Paddison PJ, Henikoff S, Clurman BE. Global and context-specific transcriptional consequences of oncogenic Fbw7 mutations. eLife 2022; 11:74338. [PMID: 35225231 PMCID: PMC8926403 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74338] [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: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Fbw7 ubiquitin ligase targets many proteins for proteasomal degradation, which include oncogenic transcription factors (TFs) (e.g., c-Myc, c-Jun, and Notch). Fbw7 is a tumor suppressor and tumors often contain mutations in FBXW7, the gene that encodes Fbw7. The complexity of its substrate network has obscured the mechanisms of Fbw7-associated tumorigenesis, yet this understanding is needed for developing therapies. We used an integrated approach employing RNA-Seq and high-resolution mapping (cleavage under target and release using nuclease) of histone modifications and TF occupancy (c-Jun and c-Myc) to examine the combinatorial effects of misregulated Fbw7 substrates in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells with engineered tumor-associated FBXW7 null or missense mutations. Both Fbw7 mutations caused widespread transcriptional changes associated with active chromatin and altered TF occupancy: some were common to both Fbw7 mutant cell lines, whereas others were mutation specific. We identified loci where both Jun and Myc were coregulated by Fbw7, suggesting that substrates may have synergistic effects. One coregulated gene was CIITA, the master regulator of MHC Class II gene expression. Fbw7 loss increased MHC Class II expression and Fbw7 mutations were correlated with increased CIITA expression in TCGA colorectal tumors and cell lines, which may have immunotherapeutic implications for Fbw7-associated cancers. Analogous studies in neural stem cells in which FBXW7 had been acutely deleted closely mirrored the results in CRC cells. Gene set enrichment analyses revealed Fbw7-associated pathways that were conserved across both cell types that may reflect fundamental Fbw7 functions. These analyses provide a framework for understanding normal and neoplastic context-specific Fbw7 functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Feinan Wu
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Resource, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Derek H Janssens
- Basic Science Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Jherek Swanger
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Ahmed Diab
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Heather Feldman
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Robert A Amezquita
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Raphael Gottardo
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, University of Washington, Seattle, United States
| | - Patrick J Paddison
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Steven Henikoff
- Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Bruce E Clurman
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
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Yang Z, Hu N, Wang W, Hu W, Zhou S, Shi J, Li M, Jing Z, Chen C, Zhang X, Yang R, Fu X, Wang X. Loss of FBXW7 Correlates with Increased IDH1 Expression in Glioma and Enhances IDH1-Mutant Cancer Cell Sensitivity to Radiation. Cancer Res 2022; 82:497-509. [PMID: 34737211 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-0384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7) is a substrate receptor of the ubiquitin ligase SKP1-Cullin1-F-box complex and a potent tumor suppressor that prevents unregulated cell growth and tumorigenesis. However, little is known about FBXW7-mediated control of cell metabolism and related functions in cancer therapy. Here, we report that FBXW7 expression inversely correlates with the expression levels of the key metabolic enzyme isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in patients with glioma and public glioma datasets. Deletion of FBXW7 significantly increased both wild-type (WT) and mutant IDH1 expression, which was mediated by blocking degradation of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1). The upregulation of neomorphic mutant IDH1 by FBXW7 deletion stimulated production of the oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate at the expense of increasing pentose phosphate pathway activity and NADPH consumption, limiting the buffering ability against radiation-induced oxidative stress. In addition, FBXW7 knockout and IDH1 mutations induced nonhomologous end joining and homologous recombination defects, respectively. In vitro and in vivo, loss of FBXW7 dramatically enhanced the efficacy of radiation treatment in IDH1-mutant cancer cells. Taken together, this work identifies FBXW7 deficiency as a potential biomarker representing both DNA repair and metabolic vulnerabilities that sensitizes IDH1-mutant cancers to radiotherapy. SIGNIFICANCE: Deficiency of FBXW7 causes defects in DNA repair and disrupts NADPH homeostasis in IDH1-mutant glioma cells, conferring high sensitivity to radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Nan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, P.R. China
| | - Weihua Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Shaolong Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Jianxiang Shi
- Henan Academy of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Minghe Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Zhou Jing
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Xuyang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Ruyi Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Xudong Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China.
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China.
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
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50
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Wang Y, Shi S, Wang Y, Zhang X, Liu X, Li J, Li P, Du L, Wang C. miR-223-3p targets FBXW7 to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in breast cancer. Thorac Cancer 2022; 13:474-482. [PMID: 34953047 PMCID: PMC8807253 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor diagnosed in women. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women in the world. Aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified to be involved in the development and progression of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of miR-223-3p in breast cancer progression and metastasis. METHODS qRT-PCR was used to analyze the expression levels of miR-223-3p in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. Wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to examine cell motility and invasiveness. FBXW7 3'-UTR construct and luciferase reporter assays were performed for the target gene. RESULTS miR-223-3p was overexpressed in breast cancer tissue and cell lines. A high level of miR-223-3p was associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. In addition, overexpressed miR-223-3p promoted the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that tumor suppressor gene FBXW7 is a target of miR-223-3p. Luciferase activity reporter assay indicated miR-223-3p could directly bind with the 3'-UTR of FBXW7. miR-223-3p exhibited its oncogenic role partly by decreasing FBXW7 expression, and consequently promoted the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed a physical and functional relationship among miR-223-3p and FBXW7. By negatively regulating FBXW7 expression, miR-223-3p exerts a tumor promotion role promoting cell invasion and metastasis in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuli Wang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Shuang Shi
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Yunshan Wang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xuhua Zhang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Shandong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Tumor Marker DetectionJinanChina
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Peilong Li
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Lutao Du
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Chuanxin Wang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
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