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Li X, Li M. Unlocking Cholesterol Metabolism in Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: Molecular Targets and Natural Product Interventions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1073. [PMID: 39204178 PMCID: PMC11358954 DOI: 10.3390/ph17081073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, represents a growing global health concern. The intricate pathogenesis of MASLD, driven by genetic, metabolic, epigenetic, and environmental factors, leads to considerable clinical variability. Dysregulation of hepatic lipid metabolism, particularly cholesterol homeostasis, is a critical factor in the progression of MASLD and its more severe form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This review elucidates the multifaceted roles of cholesterol metabolism in MASLD, focusing on its absorption, transportation, biosynthesis, efflux, and conversion. We highlight recent advancements in understanding these processes and explore the therapeutic potential of natural products such as curcumin, berberine, and resveratrol in modulating cholesterol metabolism. By targeting key molecular pathways, these natural products offer promising strategies for MASLD management. Finally, this review also covers the clinical studies of natural products in MASLD, providing new insights for future research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meng Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China;
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2
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Zhou X, Wang G, Tian C, Du L, Prochownik EV, Li Y. Inhibition of DUSP18 impairs cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5851. [PMID: 38992029 PMCID: PMC11239938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50138-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells reprogram their metabolism to produce specialized metabolites that both fuel their own growth and license tumor immune evasion. However, the relationships between these functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report CRISPR screens in a mouse model of colo-rectal cancer (CRC) that implicates the dual specificity phosphatase 18 (DUSP18) in the establishment of tumor-directed immune evasion. Dusp18 inhibition reduces CRC growth rates, which correlate with high levels of CD8+ T cell activation. Mechanistically, DUSP18 dephosphorylates and stabilizes the USF1 bHLH-ZIP transcription factor. In turn, USF1 induces the SREBF2 gene, which allows cells to accumulate the cholesterol biosynthesis intermediate lanosterol and release it into the tumor microenvironment (TME). There, lanosterol uptake by CD8+ T cells suppresses the mevalonate pathway and reduces KRAS protein prenylation and function, which in turn inhibits their activation and establishes a molecular basis for tumor cell immune escape. Finally, the combination of an anti-PD-1 antibody and Lumacaftor, an FDA-approved small molecule inhibitor of DUSP18, inhibits CRC growth in mice and synergistically enhances anti-tumor immunity. Collectively, our findings support the idea that a combination of immune checkpoint and metabolic blockade represents a rationally-designed, mechanistically-based and potential therapy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Genxin Wang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Chenhui Tian
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Edward V Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, The Hillman Cancer Institute of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Youjun Li
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China.
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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3
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He K, Zhao Z, Zhang J, Li D, Wang S, Liu Q. Cholesterol Metabolism in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Antioxid Redox Signal 2024. [PMID: 38842175 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2024.0674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Significance: Cholesterol plays a crucial role in the brain, where it is highly concentrated and tightly regulated to support normal brain functions. It serves as a vital component of cell membranes, ensuring their integrity, and acts as a key regulator of various brain processes. Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism in the brain has been linked to impaired brain function and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Recent Advances: A significant advancement has been the identification of astrocyte-derived apoliprotein E as a key regulator of de novo cholesterol biosynthesis in neurons, providing insights into how extracellular signals influence neuronal cholesterol levels. In addition, the development of antibody-based therapies, particularly for AD, presents promising opportunities for therapeutic interventions. Critical Issues: Despite significant research, the association between cholesterol and neurodegenerative diseases remains inconclusive. It is crucial to distinguish between plasma cholesterol and brain cholesterol, as these pools are relatively independent. This differentiation should be considered when evaluating statin-based treatment approaches. Furthermore, assessing not only the total cholesterol content in the brain but also its distribution among different types of brain cells is essential. Future Direction: Establishing a causal link between changes in brain/plasma cholesterol levels and the onset of brain dysfunction/neurodegenerative diseases remains a key objective. In addition, conducting cell-specific analyses of cholesterol homeostasis in various types of brain cells under pathological conditions will enhance our understanding of cholesterol metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases. Manipulating cholesterol levels to restore homeostasis may represent a novel approach for alleviating neurological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keqiang He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dingfeng Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Neurodegenerative Disorder Research Center, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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4
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Rybak JM, Xie J, Martin-Vicente A, Guruceaga X, Thorn HI, Nywening AV, Ge W, Souza ACO, Shetty AC, McCracken C, Bruno VM, Parker JE, Kelly SL, Snell HM, Cuomo CA, Rogers PD, Fortwendel JR. A secondary mechanism of action for triazole antifungals in Aspergillus fumigatus mediated by hmg1. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3642. [PMID: 38684680 PMCID: PMC11059170 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48029-2] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Triazole antifungals function as ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors and are frontline therapy for invasive fungal infections, such as invasive aspergillosis. The primary mechanism of action of triazoles is through the specific inhibition of a cytochrome P450 14-α-sterol demethylase enzyme, Cyp51A/B, resulting in depletion of cellular ergosterol. Here, we uncover a clinically relevant secondary mechanism of action for triazoles within the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. We provide evidence that triazole-mediated inhibition of Cyp51A/B activity generates sterol intermediate perturbations that are likely decoded by the sterol sensing functions of HMG-CoA reductase and Insulin-Induced Gene orthologs as increased pathway activity. This, in turn, results in negative feedback regulation of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting step of sterol biosynthesis. We also provide evidence that HMG-CoA reductase sterol sensing domain mutations previously identified as generating resistance in clinical isolates of Aspergillus fumigatus partially disrupt this triazole-induced feedback. Therefore, our data point to a secondary mechanism of action for the triazoles: induction of HMG-CoA reductase negative feedback for downregulation of ergosterol biosynthesis pathway activity. Abrogation of this feedback through acquired mutations in the HMG-CoA reductase sterol sensing domain diminishes triazole antifungal activity against fungal pathogens and underpins HMG-CoA reductase-mediated resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Rybak
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jinhong Xie
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Adela Martin-Vicente
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Xabier Guruceaga
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Harrison I Thorn
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ashley V Nywening
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Health Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Wenbo Ge
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ana C O Souza
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Amol C Shetty
- Institute of Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carrie McCracken
- Institute of Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vincent M Bruno
- Institute of Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Josie E Parker
- Molecular Biosciences Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Steven L Kelly
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Hannah M Snell
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiome Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christina A Cuomo
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiome Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - P David Rogers
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jarrod R Fortwendel
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
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5
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Faulkner RA, Yang Y, Tsien J, Qin T, DeBose-Boyd RA. Direct binding to sterols accelerates endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation of HMG CoA reductase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318822121. [PMID: 38319967 PMCID: PMC10873557 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318822121] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The maintenance of cholesterol homeostasis is crucial for normal function at both the cellular and organismal levels. Two integral membrane proteins, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) and Scap, are key targets of a complex feedback regulatory system that operates to ensure cholesterol homeostasis. HMGCR catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the transformation of the 2-carbon precursor acetate to 27-carbon cholesterol. Scap mediates proteolytic activation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2), a membrane-bound transcription factor that controls expression of genes involved in the synthesis and uptake of cholesterol. Sterol accumulation triggers binding of HMGCR to endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized Insig proteins, leading to the enzyme's ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Sterols also induce binding of Insigs to Scap, which leads to sequestration of Scap and its bound SREBP-2 in the ER, thereby preventing proteolytic activation of SREBP-2 in the Golgi. The oxygenated cholesterol derivative 25-hydroxycholesterol (25HC) and the methylated cholesterol synthesis intermediate 24,25-dihydrolanosterol (DHL) differentially modulate HMGCR and Scap. While both sterols promote binding of HMGCR to Insigs for ubiquitination and subsequent ERAD, only 25HC inhibits the Scap-mediated proteolytic activation of SREBP-2. We showed previously that 1,1-bisphosphonate esters mimic DHL, accelerating ERAD of HMGCR while sparing SREBP-2 activation. Building on these results, our current studies reveal specific, Insig-independent photoaffinity labeling of HMGCR by photoactivatable derivatives of the 1,1-bisphosphonate ester SRP-3042 and 25HC. These findings disclose a direct sterol binding mechanism as the trigger that initiates the HMGCR ERAD pathway, providing valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms that govern cholesterol homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Faulkner
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390-9046
| | - Yangyan Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390-9046
| | - Jet Tsien
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390-9046
| | - Tian Qin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390-9046
| | - Russell A. DeBose-Boyd
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390-9046
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6
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Das A, Cheng H, Wang Y, Kinch LN, Liang G, Hong S, Hobbs HH, Cohen JC. The ubiquitin E3 ligase BFAR promotes degradation of PNPLA3. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2312291121. [PMID: 38294943 PMCID: PMC10861911 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2312291121] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
A missense variant in patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 [PNPLA3(I148M)] is the most impactful genetic risk factor for fatty liver disease (FLD). We previously showed that PNPLA3 is ubiquitylated and subsequently degraded by proteasomes and autophagosomes and that the PNPLA3(148M) variant interferes with this process. To define the machinery responsible for PNPLA3 turnover, we used small interfering (si)RNAs to inactivate components of the ubiquitin proteasome system. Inactivation of bifunctional apoptosis regulator (BFAR), a membrane-bound E3 ubiquitin ligase, reproducibly increased PNPLA3 levels in two lines of cultured hepatocytes. Conversely, overexpression of BFAR decreased levels of endogenous PNPLA3 in HuH7 cells. BFAR and PNPLA3 co-immunoprecipitated when co-expressed in cells. BFAR promoted ubiquitylation of PNPLA3 in vitro in a reconstitution assay using purified, epitope-tagged recombinant proteins. To confirm that BFAR targets PNPLA3, we inactivated Bfar in mice. Levels of PNPLA3 protein were increased twofold in hepatic lipid droplets of Bfar-/- mice with no associated increase in PNPLA3 mRNA levels. Taken together these data are consistent with a model in which BFAR plays a role in the post-translational degradation of PNPLA3. The identification of BFAR provides a potential target to enhance PNPLA3 turnover and prevent FLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avash Das
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Haili Cheng
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Lisa N. Kinch
- HHMI, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Guosheng Liang
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Sen Hong
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Helen H. Hobbs
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
- HHMI, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
| | - Jonathan C. Cohen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX75390
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7
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Kinger S, Jagtap YA, Dubey AR, Kumar P, Choudhary A, Dhiman R, Prajapati VK, Chitkara D, Poluri KM, Mishra A. Lanosterol elevates cytoprotective response through induced-proteasomal degradation of aberrant proteins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119631. [PMID: 37967794 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Efficient protein synthesis is a basic requirement of our cells to replace the old or defective proteins from the intrinsic crowded biomolecular environment. The interconnection among synthesis, folding, and degradation of proteins represents central paradigm to proteostasis. Failure of protein quality control (PQC) mechanisms results in the disturbance and inadequate functions of proteome. The consequent misfolded protein accumulation can form the basis of neurodegeneration onset and largely represents imperfect aging. Understanding how cells improve the function of deregulated PQC mechanisms to establish and maintain proteostasis against the unwanted sequestration of normal proteins with misfolded proteinaceous inclusions is a major challenge. Here we show that treatment of Lanosterol, a cholesterol synthesis pathway intermediate, induces Proteasome proteolytic activities and, therefore, supports the PQC mechanism for the elimination of intracellular aberrant proteins. The exposure of Lanosterol not only promotes Proteasome catalytic functions but also elevates the removal of both bona fide and neurodegenerative diseases associated toxic proteins. Our current study suggests that increasing Proteasome functions with the help of small molecules such as Lanosterol could serve as a cytoprotective therapeutic approach against abnormal protein accumulation. Cumulatively, based on findings in this study, we can understand the critical importance of small molecules and their potential therapeutic influence in re-establishing disturbed proteostasis linked with neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kinger
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India
| | - Yuvraj Anandrao Jagtap
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India
| | - Ankur Rakesh Dubey
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India
| | - Prashant Kumar
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India
| | - Akash Choudhary
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India
| | - Rohan Dhiman
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Deepak Chitkara
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS-Pilani), Vidya Vihar Campus, Pilani 333031, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342037, India.
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8
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Flagg MP, Lam B, Lam DK, Le TM, Kao A, Slaiwa YI, Hampton RY. Exploring the "misfolding problem" by systematic discovery and analysis of functional-but-degraded proteins. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar125. [PMID: 37729018 PMCID: PMC10848938 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-06-0248] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In both health and disease, the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) degrades point mutants that retain partial function but have decreased stability compared with their wild-type counterparts. This class of UPS substrate includes routine translational errors and numerous human disease alleles, such as the most common cause of cystic fibrosis, ΔF508-CFTR. Yet, there is no systematic way to discover novel examples of these "minimally misfolded" substrates. To address that shortcoming, we designed a genetic screen to isolate functional-but-degraded point mutants, and we used the screen to study soluble, monomeric proteins with known structures. These simple parent proteins yielded diverse substrates, allowing us to investigate the structural features, cytotoxicity, and small-molecule regulation of minimal misfolding. Our screen can support numerous lines of inquiry, and it provides broad access to a class of poorly understood but biomedically critical quality-control substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P. Flagg
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Breanna Lam
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Darren K. Lam
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Tiffany M. Le
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Andy Kao
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Yousif I. Slaiwa
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Randolph Y. Hampton
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
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9
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Tashiro J, Sugiura A, Warita T, Irie N, Dwi Cahyadi D, Ishikawa T, Warita K. CYP11A1 silencing suppresses HMGCR expression via cholesterol accumulation and sensitizes CRPC cell line DU-145 to atorvastatin. J Pharmacol Sci 2023; 153:104-112. [PMID: 37770151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2023.08.002] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Statins, which are cholesterol synthesis inhibitors, are well-known therapeutics for dyslipidemia; however, some studies have anticipated their use as anticancer agents. However, epithelial cancer cells show strong resistance to statins through an increased expression of HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR), an inhibitory target of statins. Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) cells synthesize androgens from cholesterol on their own. We performed suppression of CYP11A1, a rate-limiting enzyme in androgen synthesis from cholesterol, using siRNA or inhibitors, to examine the effect of steroidogenesis inhibition on statin sensitivity in CRPC cells. Here, we suggested that CYP11A1 silencing sensitized the statin-resistant CRPC cell line DU-145 to atorvastatin via HMGCR downregulation by an increase in intracellular free cholesterol. We further demonstrated that CYP11A1 silencing induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which converted DU-145 cells into a statin-sensitive phenotype. This suggests that concomitant use of CYP11A1 inhibitors could be an effective approach for overcoming statin resistance in CRPC. Moreover, we showed that ketoconazole, a CYP11A1 inhibitor, sensitized DU-145 cells to atorvastatin, although not all the molecular events observed in CYP11A1 silencing were reproducible. Although further studies are necessary to clarify the detailed mechanisms, ketoconazole may be effective as a concomitant drug that potentiates the anticancer effect of atorvastatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiro Tashiro
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Akihiro Sugiura
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Tomoko Warita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Kwansei Gakuin University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nanami Irie
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Danang Dwi Cahyadi
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Takuro Ishikawa
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Aichi, Japan; Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan.
| | - Katsuhiko Warita
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan; Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan.
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10
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Sun Q, Liu D, Cui W, Cheng H, Huang L, Zhang R, Gu J, Liu S, Zhuang X, Lu Y, Chu B, Li J. Cholesterol mediated ferroptosis suppression reveals essential roles of Coenzyme Q and squalene. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1108. [PMID: 37914914 PMCID: PMC10620397 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05477-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have shown that fatty acid metabolism is profoundly involved in ferroptosis. However, the role of cholesterol in this process remains incompletely understood. In this work, we show that modulating cholesterol levels changes vulnerability of cells to ferroptosis. Cholesterol alters metabolic flux of the mevalonate pathway by promoting Squalene Epoxidase (SQLE) degradation, a rate limiting step in cholesterol biosynthesis, thereby increasing both CoQ10 and squalene levels. Importantly, whereas inactivation of Farnesyl-Diphosphate Farnesyltransferase 1 (FDFT1), the branch point of cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, exhibits minimal effect on ferroptosis, simultaneous inhibition of both CoQ10 and squalene biosynthesis completely abrogates the effect of cholesterol. Mouse models of ischemia-reperfusion and doxorubicin induced hepatoxicity confirm the protective role of cholesterol in ferroptosis. Our study elucidates a potential role of ferroptosis in diseases related to dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism and suggests a possible therapeutic target that involves ferroptotic cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Diming Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Weiwei Cui
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Huimin Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lixia Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ruihao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Junlian Gu
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shuo Liu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiao Zhuang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Bo Chu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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11
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Yin J, Fu J, Shao Y, Xu J, Li H, Chen C, Zhao Y, Zheng Z, Yu C, Zheng L, Wang B. CYP51-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis is required for the proliferation of CD4 + T cells in Sjogren's syndrome. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:1691-1711. [PMID: 36413274 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00939-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CYtochrome P450, family 51 (CYP51) is an important enzyme for de novo cholesterol synthesis in mammalian cells. In the present study, we found that the expression of CYP51 positively correlated with CD4+ T cell activation both in vivo and in vitro. The addition of ketoconazole, a pharmacological inhibitor of CYP51, prevented the proliferation and activation of anti-CD3/CD28-expanded mouse CD4+ T cells in a dose-dependent fashion. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry indicated an increase in levels of lanosterol in T cells treated with ketoconazole during activation. Ketoconazole-induced blockade of the cholesterol synthesis pathway also caused Sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) activation in CD4+ T cells. Additionally, ketoconazole treatment elicited an integrated stress response in T cells that up-regulated activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) and DNA-damage inducible transcript 3 (DDIT3/CHOP) at the translational level. Furthermore, treatment with ketoconazole significantly decreased the amount of CD4+ T cells infiltrating lesions in the submandibular glands of NOD/Ltj mice. In summary, our results suggest that CYP51 plays an essential role in the proliferation and survival of CD4+ T cells, which makes ketoconazole an inhibitor of CD4+ T cell proliferation and of the SS-like autoimmune response through regulating the biosynthesis of cholesterol and inducing the integrated stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhao Yin
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayao Fu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanxiong Shao
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiabao Xu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Changyu Chen
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijie Zhao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Fudan University, 1258 Fuxin Zhong Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanglong Zheng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuangqi Yu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyan Zheng
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Baoli Wang
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Xiao M, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Li J, Xu H, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Functional significance of cholesterol metabolism in cancer: from threat to treatment. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1982-1995. [PMID: 37653037 PMCID: PMC10545798 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01079-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential structural component of membranes that contributes to membrane integrity and fluidity. Cholesterol homeostasis plays a critical role in the maintenance of cellular activities. Recently, increasing evidence has indicated that cholesterol is a major determinant by modulating cell signaling events governing the hallmarks of cancer. Numerous studies have shown the functional significance of cholesterol metabolism in tumorigenesis, cancer progression and metastasis through its regulatory effects on the immune response, ferroptosis, autophagy, cell stemness, and the DNA damage response. Here, we summarize recent literature describing cholesterol metabolism in cancer cells, including the cholesterol metabolism pathways and the mutual regulatory mechanisms involved in cancer progression and cholesterol metabolism. We also discuss various drugs targeting cholesterol metabolism to suggest new strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Xiao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jialin Li
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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13
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Dickson AS, Pauzaite T, Arnaiz E, Ortmann BM, West JA, Volkmar N, Martinelli AW, Li Z, Wit N, Vitkup D, Kaser A, Lehner PJ, Nathan JA. A HIF independent oxygen-sensitive pathway for controlling cholesterol synthesis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4816. [PMID: 37558666 PMCID: PMC10412576 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40541-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol biosynthesis is a highly regulated, oxygen-dependent pathway, vital for cell membrane integrity and growth. In fungi, the dependency on oxygen for sterol production has resulted in a shared transcriptional response, resembling prolyl hydroxylation of Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIFs) in metazoans. Whether an analogous metazoan pathway exists is unknown. Here, we identify Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 2 (SREBP2), the key transcription factor driving sterol production in mammals, as an oxygen-sensitive regulator of cholesterol synthesis. SREBP2 degradation in hypoxia overrides the normal sterol-sensing response, and is HIF independent. We identify MARCHF6, through its NADPH-mediated activation in hypoxia, as the main ubiquitin ligase controlling SREBP2 stability. Hypoxia-mediated degradation of SREBP2 protects cells from statin-induced cell death by forcing cells to rely on exogenous cholesterol uptake, explaining why many solid organ tumours become auxotrophic for cholesterol. Our findings therefore uncover an oxygen-sensitive pathway for governing cholesterol synthesis through regulated SREBP2-dependent protein degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Dickson
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Tekle Pauzaite
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Esther Arnaiz
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
- Ochre-Bio Ltd, Hayakawa Building, Oxford Science Park, Edmund Halley Road, Oxford, OX4 4GB, UK
| | - Brian M Ortmann
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Herschel Building, Level 6, Brewery Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - James A West
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Norbert Volkmar
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
- Institute for Molecular Systems Biology (IMSB), ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- DISCO Pharmaceuticals Swiss GmbH, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anthony W Martinelli
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Zhaoqi Li
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Tango Therapeutics, 201 Brookline Ave Suite 901, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Niek Wit
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Dennis Vitkup
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Arthur Kaser
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Paul J Lehner
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - James A Nathan
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK.
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14
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Kennewick KT, Bensinger SJ. Decoding the crosstalk between mevalonate metabolism and T cell function. Immunol Rev 2023; 317:71-94. [PMID: 36999733 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13200] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The mevalonate pathway is an essential metabolic pathway in T cells regulating development, proliferation, survival, differentiation, and effector functions. The mevalonate pathway is a complex, branched pathway composed of many enzymes that ultimately generate cholesterol and nonsterol isoprenoids. T cells must tightly control metabolic flux through the branches of the mevalonate pathway to ensure sufficient isoprenoids and cholesterol are available to meet cellular demands. Unbalanced metabolite flux through the sterol or the nonsterol isoprenoid branch is metabolically inefficient and can have deleterious consequences for T cell fate and function. Accordingly, there is tight regulatory control over metabolic flux through the branches of this essential lipid synthetic pathway. In this review we provide an overview of how the branches of the mevalonate pathway are regulated in T cells and discuss our current understanding of the relationship between mevalonate metabolism, cholesterol homeostasis and T cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly T Kennewick
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven J Bensinger
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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15
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André R, Pacheco R, Alves AC, Santos HM, Bourbon M, Serralheiro ML. The Hypocholesterolemic Potential of the Edible Algae Fucus vesiculosus: Proteomic and Quantitative PCR Analysis. Foods 2023; 12:2758. [PMID: 37509850 PMCID: PMC10379601 DOI: 10.3390/foods12142758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A brown seaweed consumed worldwide, Fucus vesiculosus, has been used to prevent atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, among other uses. However, the mechanisms of action that lead to these effects are not yet fully understood. This work aims to study the in vitro effect of an aqueous extract of F. vesiculosus, previously characterized as rich in phlorotannins and peptides, on the expression of different proteins involved in the synthesis and transport of cholesterol. A proteomic analysis, Western blot, and qRT-PCR analysis were performed to identify protein changes in HepG2 cells exposed to 0.25 mg/mL of the F. vesiculosus extract for 24 h. The proteomic results demonstrated that, in liver cells, the extract decreases the expression of four proteins involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis process (CYP51A1, DHCR24, HMGCS1 and HSD17B7). Additionally, a 12.76% and 18.40% decrease in the expression of two important transporters proteins of cholesterol, NPC1L1 and ABCG5, respectively, was also observed, as well as a 30% decrease in NPC1L1 mRNA levels in the cells exposed to the extract compared to control cells. Our study reveals some of the mechanisms underlying the actions of bioactive compounds from F. vesiculosus that may explain its previously reported hypocholesterolemic effect, future prospecting its use as a functional food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca André
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Pacheco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, ISEL-Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa, Rua Conselheiro Emídio Navarro, 1, 1959-007 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Alves
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Unidade de I&D, Grupo de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Prevenção de Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Hugo M Santos
- LAQV@REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- PROTEOMASS Scientific Society, Madan Park, Rúa dos Inventores, 2825-182 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Bourbon
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Unidade de I&D, Grupo de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Prevenção de Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Luísa Serralheiro
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8 Bldg, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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16
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Bauer R, Meyer SP, Raue R, Palmer MA, Guerrero Ruiz VM, Cardamone G, Rösser S, Heffels M, Roesmann F, Wilhelm A, Lütjohann D, Zarnack K, Fuhrmann DC, Widera M, Schmid T, Brüne B. Hypoxia-altered cholesterol homeostasis enhances the expression of interferon-stimulated genes upon SARS-CoV-2 infections in monocytes. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1121864. [PMID: 37377965 PMCID: PMC10291055 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1121864] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia contributes to numerous pathophysiological conditions including inflammation-associated diseases. We characterized the impact of hypoxia on the immunometabolic cross-talk between cholesterol and interferon (IFN) responses. Specifically, hypoxia reduced cholesterol biosynthesis flux and provoked a compensatory activation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) in monocytes. Concomitantly, a broad range of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) increased under hypoxia in the absence of an inflammatory stimulus. While changes in cholesterol biosynthesis intermediates and SREBP2 activity did not contribute to hypoxic ISG induction, intracellular cholesterol distribution appeared critical to enhance hypoxic expression of chemokine ISGs. Importantly, hypoxia further boosted chemokine ISG expression in monocytes upon infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Mechanistically, hypoxia sensitized toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling to activation by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which emerged as a major signaling hub to enhance chemokine ISG induction following SARS-CoV-2 infection of hypoxic monocytes. These data depict a hypoxia-regulated immunometabolic mechanism with implications for the development of systemic inflammatory responses in severe cases of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Bauer
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sofie Patrizia Meyer
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Rebecca Raue
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Megan A. Palmer
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Giulia Cardamone
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Silvia Rösser
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Milou Heffels
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabian Roesmann
- Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Alexander Wilhelm
- Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kathi Zarnack
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS), Faculty of Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Dominik Christian Fuhrmann
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marek Widera
- Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Tobias Schmid
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Bernhard Brüne
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Frankfurt, Germany
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17
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Natural Monoterpenes as Potential Therapeutic Agents against Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032429. [PMID: 36768748 PMCID: PMC9917110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional herbal medicines based on natural products play a pivotal role in preventing and managing atherosclerotic diseases, which are among the leading causes of death globally. Monoterpenes are a large class of naturally occurring compounds commonly found in many aromatic and medicinal plants. Emerging evidence has shown that monoterpenes have many biological properties, including cardioprotective effects. Remarkably, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of natural monoterpenes to protect against the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. These findings shed light on developing novel effective antiatherogenic drugs from these compounds. Herein, we provide an overview of natural monoterpenes' effects on atherogenesis and the underlying mechanisms. Monoterpenes have pleiotropic and multitargeted pharmacological properties by interacting with various cell types and intracellular molecular pathways involved in atherogenesis. These properties confer remarkable advantages in managing atherosclerosis, which has been recognized as a multifaceted vascular disease. We also discuss limitations in the potential clinical application of monoterpenes as therapeutic agents against atherosclerosis. We propose perspectives to give new insights into future preclinical research and clinical practice regarding natural monoterpenes.
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18
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Kawamura K, Yoshioka H, Sato C, Yajima T, Furuyama Y, Kuramochi K, Ohgane K. Fine-tuning of nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate esters that potently induce degradation of HMG-CoA reductase. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 78:117145. [PMID: 36580745 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117145] [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: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase is the rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway, and competitive inhibitors targeting the catalytic domain of this enzyme, so-called statins, are widely used for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. The membrane domain mediates the sterol-accelerated degradation, a post-translational negative feedback mechanism, and small molecules triggering such degradation have been studied as an alternative therapeutic option. Such strategies are expected to provide benefits over catalytic site inhibitors, as the inhibition leads to transcriptional and post-translational upregulation of the enzyme, necessitating a higher dose of the inhibitors and concomitantly increasing the risk of serious adverse effects, including myopathies. Through our previous study on SR12813, a synthetic small molecule that induces degradation of HMG-CoA reductase, we identified a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate ester SRP3042 as a highly potent HMG-CoA reductase degrader. Here, we performed a systematic structure-activity relationship study to optimize its activity and physicochemical properties, specifically focusing on the reduction of lipophilicity. Mono-fluorination of tert-butyl groups on the molecules was found to increase the HMG-CoA reductase degradation activity while reducing lipophilicity, suggesting the mono-fluorination of saturated alkyl groups as a useful strategy to balance potency and lipophilicity of the lead compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Kawamura
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8519, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Yoshioka
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo, Tokyo 13-0032, Japan
| | - Chikako Sato
- Department of Chemistry, Ochanomizu University, 2-1-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo, Tokyo 112-8610, Japan
| | - Tomoko Yajima
- Department of Chemistry, Ochanomizu University, 2-1-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo, Tokyo 112-8610, Japan
| | - Yuuki Furuyama
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8519, Japan
| | - Kouji Kuramochi
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8519, Japan
| | - Kenji Ohgane
- Department of Applied Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8519, Japan; Department of Chemistry, Ochanomizu University, 2-1-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo, Tokyo 112-8610, Japan.
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19
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Liu S, Li Y, Wei X, Adi D, Wang YT, Han M, Liu F, Chen BD, Li XM, Yang YN, Fu ZY, Ma YT. Genetic analysis of DNA methylation in dyslipidemia: a case-control study. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14590. [PMID: 36570009 PMCID: PMC9774006 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14590] [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: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coronary heart disease has become the leading cause of death in developed countries, and dyslipidemia is closely associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia is caused by the abnormal regulation of several genes and signaling pathways, and dyslipidemia is influenced mainly by genetic variation. AMFR, FBXW7, INSIG1, INSIG2, and MBTPS1 genes are associated with lipid metabolism. In a recent GWAS study, the GRINA gene has been reported to be associated with dyslipidemia, but its molecular mechanism has not been thoroughly investigated. The correlation between the DNA methylation of these genes and lipid metabolism has not been studied. This study aimed to examine the relationship between the DNA methylation of these genes and the risk of dyslipidemia by comparing the methylation levels of dyslipidemia and control samples. Methods A case-control research method was used in this study. The patient's blood samples were collected at the Heart Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. In the Xinjiang Han population, 100 cases of hyperlipidemia and 80 cases of the control group were selected. The two groups were age and gender-matched. Quantitative methylation analysis of CpG sites in the gene promoter regions of six genes was performed by Solexa high-throughput sequencing. Results The DNA methylation levels of 23 CpG sites in six genes were shown to be associated with hyperlipidemia, and a total of 20 DNA methylation haplotypes showed statistically significant differences between the two groups. When compared with the control group, the dyslipidemia group had significantly higher levels of methylation in the GRINA gene (2.68 vs 2.36, P = 0.04). Additionally, we also discovered a significant methylation haplotype of GRINA (P = 0.017). Conclusion The findings of this study reveal that the DNA methylation of GRINA increases the risk for dyslipidemia in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Liu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Yang Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Xian Wei
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Dilare Adi
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Yong-Tao Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Min Han
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Fen Liu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Bang-Dang Chen
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Yi-Ning Yang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Zhen-Yan Fu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
| | - Yi-Tong Ma
- First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Urumqi, China
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20
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Jiang SY, Yang X, Yang Z, Li JW, Xu MQ, Qu YX, Tang JJ, Li YF, Wang L, Shao YW, Meng XY, Hu H, Song BL, Rao Y, Qi W. Discovery of an insulin-induced gene binding compound that ameliorates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by inhibiting sterol regulatory element-binding protein-mediated lipogenesis. Hepatology 2022; 76:1466-1481. [PMID: 35102596 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS NASH is associated with high levels of cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) in the liver; however, there is still no approved pharmacological therapy. Synthesis of cholesterol and TG is controlled by sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP), which is found to be abnormally activated in NASH patients. We aim to discover small molecules for treating NASH by inhibiting the SREBP pathway. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we identify a potent SREBP inhibitor, 25-hydroxylanosterol (25-HL). 25-HL binds to insulin-induced gene (INSIG) proteins, stimulates the interaction between INSIG and SCAP, and retains them in the endoplasmic reticulum, thereby suppressing SREBP activation and inhibiting lipogenesis. In NASH mouse models, 25-HL lowers levels of cholesterol and TG in serum and the liver, enhances energy expenditure to prevent obesity, and improves insulin sensitivity. 25-HL dramatically ameliorates hepatic steatosis, inflammation, ballooning, and fibrosis through down-regulating the expression of lipogenic genes. Furthermore, 25-HL exhibits both prophylactic and therapeutic efficacies of alleviating NASH and atherosclerosis in amylin liver NASH model diet-treated Ldlr-/- mice, and reduces the formation of cholesterol crystals and associated crown-like structures of Kupffer cells. Notably, 25-HL lowers lipid contents in serum and the liver to a greater extent than lovastatin or obeticholic acid. 25-HL shows a good safety and pharmacokinetics profile. CONCLUSIONS This study provides the proof of concept that inhibiting SREBP activation by targeting INSIG to lower lipids could be a promising strategy for treating NASH. It suggests the translational potential of 25-HL in human NASH and demonstrates the critical role of SREBP-controlled lipogenesis in the progression of NASH by pharmacological inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-You Jiang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinglin Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zimo Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jue-Wan Li
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Qiang Xu
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Xiu Qu
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing-Jie Tang
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Feng Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liguo Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Wen Shao
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China.,The Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Meng
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China.,The Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Huili Hu
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China.,The Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Shandong University Cheeloo Medical College, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Bao-Liang Song
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Rao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Qi
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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21
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Faulkner R, Jo Y. Synthesis, function, and regulation of sterol and nonsterol isoprenoids. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1006822. [PMID: 36275615 PMCID: PMC9579336 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1006822] [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: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol, the bulk end-product of the mevalonate pathway, is a key component of cellular membranes and lipoproteins that transport lipids throughout the body. It is also a precursor of steroid hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. In addition to cholesterol, the mevalonate pathway yields a variety of nonsterol isoprenoids that are essential to cell survival. Flux through the mevalonate pathway is tightly controlled to ensure cells continuously synthesize nonsterol isoprenoids but avoid overproducing cholesterol and other sterols. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase (HMGCR), the rate limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway, is the focus of a complex feedback regulatory system governed by sterol and nonsterol isoprenoids. This review highlights transcriptional and post-translational regulation of HMGCR. Transcriptional regulation of HMGCR is mediated by the Scap-SREBP pathway. Post-translational control is initiated by the intracellular accumulation of sterols, which causes HMGCR to become ubiquitinated and subjected to proteasome-mediated ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Sterols also cause a subfraction of HMGCR molecules to bind the vitamin K2 synthetic enzyme, UbiA prenyltransferase domain-containing protein-1 (UBIAD1). This binding inhibits ERAD of HMGCR, which allows cells to continuously synthesize nonsterol isoprenoids such as geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), even when sterols are abundant. Recent studies reveal that UBIAD1 is a GGPP sensor, dissociating from HMGCR when GGPP thresholds are met to allow maximal ERAD. Animal studies using genetically manipulated mice disclose the physiological significance of the HMGCR regulatory system and we describe how dysregulation of these pathways contributes to disease.
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22
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Zhang KK, He WW, Du Y, Zhou YG, Wu X, Zhu J, Zhu XJ, Kang Z, Lu Y. Inhibitory effect of lanosterol on cataractous lens of cynomolgus monkeys using a subconjunctival drug release system. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2022; 5:pbac021. [PMID: 36196296 PMCID: PMC9523460 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the effect of lanosterol on cataractous lens of cynomolgus monkeys using a subconjunctival drug release system. Methods Nine elder cynomolgus monkeys were used, consisting of three monkeys without cataract as controls, three monkeys with naturally occurring cortical cataract, and three monkeys with nuclear cataract as intervention groups. Nanoparticulated thermogel with lanosterol and fluorescein was administered by subconjunctival injection in the monkeys with cataract. Fluorescence changes of injected thermogel and cataract progression were observed. Lanosterol concentration in aqueous humor, solubility changes in lens proteins, and oxidative stress levels were analyzed in the lenses of the control and intervention groups. Results Injected thermogel showed decreased fluorescence during follow up. Lanosterol concentration in aqueous humor increased in the first 2 weeks and then gradually decreased, which was in accordance with the changes in cortical lens clarity. However, lenses with nuclear opacification showed little change. In the cortical region of lenses with cortical cataract, solubility of α-crystallin was significantly increased after administration of lanosterol, as well as the reduction of oxidative stress. Conclusions We demonstrated the effect of lanosterol on cataract progression based on in vivo models of primates. Lanosterol showed a short-term and reliable reversal effect on reducing cataract severity in cortical cataract in the early stages, possibly due to the increase in the solubility of lens proteins and changes in the oxidative stress status. Lanosterol administration using subconjunctival drug release system could be a promising nonsurgical approach for future clinical studies of cataract prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Ke Zhang
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University) , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Shanghai 200031 , China
| | - Wen-Wen He
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University) , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Shanghai 200031 , China
| | - Yu Du
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University) , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Shanghai 200031 , China
| | - Yu-gui Zhou
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou 510620 , China
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California , San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093 , USA
| | - Xiaokang Wu
- Smidt Heart Institute , Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048 , USA
| | - Jie Zhu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou 510620 , China
- Guangzhou KangRui Biological Pharmaceutical Technology Company , Guangzhou 510440 , China
| | - Xiang-Jia Zhu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University) , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Shanghai 200031 , China
| | - Zhang Kang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology , Taipa 999078 , Macau, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University , Shanghai 200031 , China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University) , Shanghai 200031 , China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences , Shanghai 200031 , China
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23
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Shi Q, Chen J, Zou X, Tang X. Intracellular Cholesterol Synthesis and Transport. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:819281. [PMID: 35386193 PMCID: PMC8978673 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.819281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol homeostasis is related to multiple diseases in humans, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative and hepatic diseases. The cholesterol levels in cells are balanced dynamically by uptake, biosynthesis, transport, distribution, esterification, and export. In this review, we focus on de novo cholesterol synthesis, cholesterol synthesis regulation, and intracellular cholesterol trafficking. In addition, the progression of lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) at multiple contact sites between organelles is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyang Shi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiahuan Chen
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaodong Zou
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaochun Tang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Chongqing Research Institute of Jilin University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaochun Tang,
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24
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Griffiths WJ, Wang Y. Cholesterol metabolism: from lipidomics to immunology. J Lipid Res 2022; 63:100165. [PMID: 34953867 PMCID: PMC8953665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2021.100165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxysterols, the oxidized forms of cholesterol or of its precursors, are formed in the first steps of cholesterol metabolism. Oxysterols have interested chemists, biologists, and physicians for many decades, but their exact biological relevance in vivo, other than as intermediates in bile acid biosynthesis, has long been debated. However, in the first quarter of this century, a role for side-chain oxysterols and their C-7 oxidized metabolites has been convincingly established in the immune system. 25-Hydroxycholesterol has been shown to be synthesized by macrophages in response to the activation of Toll-like receptors and to offer protection against microbial pathogens, whereas 7α,25-dihydroxycholesterol has been shown to act as a chemoattractant to lymphocytes expressing the G protein-coupled receptor Epstein-Barr virus-induced gene 2 and to be important in coordinating the action of B cells, T cells, and dendritic cells in secondary lymphoid tissue. There is a growing body of evidence that not only these two oxysterols but also many of their isomers are of importance to the proper function of the immune system. Here, we review recent findings related to the roles of oxysterols in immunology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
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25
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Daggubati V, Raleigh DR, Sever N. Sterol regulation of developmental and oncogenic Hedgehog signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 196:114647. [PMID: 34111427 PMCID: PMC8648856 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) family of lipid-modified signaling proteins directs embryonic tissue patterning and postembryonic tissue homeostasis, and dysregulated Hh signaling drives familial and sporadic cancers. Hh ligands bind to and inhibit the tumor suppressor Patched and allow the oncoprotein Smoothened (SMO) to accumulate in cilia, which in turn activates the GLI family of transcription factors. Recent work has demonstrated that endogenous cholesterol and oxidized cholesterol derivatives (oxysterols) bind and modulate SMO activity. Here we discuss the myriad sterols that activate or inhibit the Hh pathway, with emphasis on endogenous 24(S),25-epoxycholesterol and 3β,5α-dihydroxycholest-7-en-6-one, and propose models of sterol regulation of SMO. Synthetic inhibitors of SMO have long been the focus of drug development efforts. Here, we discuss the possible utility of steroidal SMO ligands or inhibitors of enzymes involved in sterol metabolism as cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Daggubati
- Departments of Radiation Oncology and Neurological Surgery, and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA,Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David R. Raleigh
- Departments of Radiation Oncology and Neurological Surgery, and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Navdar Sever
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Corresponding author: Navdar Sever, Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, 240 Longwood Avenue, LHRRB 405, Boston, MA 02115, USA, , Telephone: (617) 432-1612
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26
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Wall CTJ, Lefebvre G, Metairon S, Descombes P, Wiederkehr A, Santo-Domingo J. Mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction alters ER sterol sensing and mevalonate pathway activity. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101652. [PMID: 35101444 PMCID: PMC8892029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction induces a strong adaptive retrograde signaling response; however, many of the downstream effectors of this response remain to be discovered. Here, we studied the shared transcriptional responses to three different mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibitors in human primary skin fibroblasts using QuantSeq 3′-RNA-sequencing. We found that genes involved in the mevalonate pathway were concurrently downregulated, irrespective of the respiratory chain complex affected. Targeted metabolomics demonstrated that impaired mitochondrial respiration at any of the three affected complexes also had functional consequences on the mevalonate pathway, reducing levels of cholesterol precursor metabolites. A deeper study of complex I inhibition showed a reduced activity of endoplasmic reticulum–bound sterol-sensing enzymes through impaired processing of the transcription factor Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 2 and accelerated degradation of the endoplasmic reticulum cholesterol-sensors squalene epoxidase and HMG-CoA reductase. These adaptations of mevalonate pathway activity affected neither total intracellular cholesterol levels nor the cellular free (nonesterified) cholesterol pool. Finally, measurement of intracellular cholesterol using the fluorescent cholesterol binding dye filipin revealed that complex I inhibition elevated cholesterol on intracellular compartments. Taken together, our study shows that mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction elevates intracellular free cholesterol levels and therefore attenuates the expression of mevalonate pathway enzymes, which lowers endogenous cholesterol biosynthesis, disrupting the metabolic output of the mevalonate pathway. We conclude that intracellular disturbances in cholesterol homeostasis may alter systemic cholesterol management in diseases associated with declining mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Tadhg James Wall
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Bioengineering, Life Science Faculty, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregory Lefebvre
- Nestlé Institute of Food Safety and Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sylviane Metairon
- Nestlé Institute of Food Safety and Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Descombes
- Nestlé Institute of Food Safety and Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Wiederkehr
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Bioengineering, Life Science Faculty, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Jaime Santo-Domingo
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Unidad de Excelencia Instituto de Biología y Genética Molecular (IBGM), University of Valladolid and CSIC, Valladolid, Spain.
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27
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Rau EM, Bartosova Z, Kristiansen KA, Aasen IM, Bruheim P, Ertesvåg H. Overexpression of Two New Acyl-CoA:Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase 2-Like Acyl-CoA:Sterol Acyltransferases Enhanced Squalene Accumulation in Aurantiochytrium limacinum. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:822254. [PMID: 35145505 PMCID: PMC8821962 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.822254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thraustochytrids are heterotrophic marine eukaryotes known to accumulate large amounts of triacylglycerols, and they also synthesize terpenoids like carotenoids and squalene, which all have an increasing market demand. However, a more extensive knowledge of the lipid metabolism is needed to develop thraustochytrids for profitable biomanufacturing. In this study, two putative type-2 Acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGAT2) genes of Aurantiochytrium sp. T66, T66ASATa, and T66ASATb, and their homologs in Aurantiochytrium limacinum SR21, AlASATa and AlASATb, were characterized. In A. limacinum SR21, genomic knockout of AlASATb reduced the amount of the steryl esters of palmitic acid, SE (16:0), and docosahexaenoic acid, SE (22:6). The double mutant of AlASATa and AlASATb produced even less of these steryl esters. The expression and overexpression of T66ASATb and AlASATb, respectively, enhanced SE (16:0) and SE (22:6) production more significantly than those of T66ASATa and AlASATa. In contrast, these mutations did not significantly change the level of triacylglycerols or other lipid classes. The results suggest that the four genes encoded proteins possessing acyl-CoA:sterol acyltransferase (ASAT) activity synthesizing both SE (16:0) and SE (22:6), but with the contribution from AlASATb and T66ASATb being more important than that of AlASATa and T66ASATa. Furthermore, the expression and overexpression of T66ASATb and AlASATb enhanced squalene accumulation in SR21 by up to 88%. The discovery highlights the functional diversity of DGAT2-like proteins and provides valuable information on steryl ester and squalene synthesis in thraustochytrids, paving the way to enhance squalene production through metabolic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- E-Ming Rau
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Zdenka Bartosova
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kåre Andre Kristiansen
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Inga Marie Aasen
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Per Bruheim
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Helga Ertesvåg
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- *Correspondence: Helga Ertesvåg,
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28
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Long T, Liu Y, Li X. Molecular structures of human ACAT2 disclose mechanism for selective inhibition. Structure 2021; 29:1410-1418.e4. [PMID: 34520735 PMCID: PMC8642284 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum-localized acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferases (ACAT), including ACAT1 and ACAT2, convert cholesterol to cholesteryl esters that become incorporated into lipoproteins or stored in cytosolic lipid droplets. Selective inhibition of ACAT2 has been shown to considerably attenuate hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in mice. Here, we report cryogenic electron microscopy structures of human ACAT2 bound to its specific inhibitor pyripyropene A or the general ACAT inhibitor nevanimibe. Structural analysis reveals that ACAT2 has a topology in membranes similar to that of ACAT1. A catalytic core with an entry site occupied by a cholesterol molecule and another site for allosteric activation of ACAT2 is observed in these structures. Enzymatic assays show that mutations within sites of cholesterol entry or allosteric activation attenuate ACAT2 activity in vitro. Together, these results reveal mechanisms for ACAT2-mediated esterification of cholesterol, providing a blueprint to design new ACAT2 inhibitors for use in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Long
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xiaochun Li
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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29
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Griffiths WJ, Wang Y. Sterols, Oxysterols, and Accessible Cholesterol: Signalling for Homeostasis, in Immunity and During Development. Front Physiol 2021; 12:723224. [PMID: 34690800 PMCID: PMC8531217 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.723224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this article we discuss the concept of accessible plasma membrane cholesterol and its involvement as a signalling molecule. Changes in plasma membrane accessible cholesterol, although only being minor in the context of total cholesterol plasma membrane cholesterol and total cell cholesterol, are a key regulator of overall cellular cholesterol homeostasis by the SREBP pathway. Accessible cholesterol also provides the second messenger between patched 1 and smoothened in the hedgehog signalling pathway important during development, and its depletion may provide a mechanism of resistance to microbial pathogens including SARS-CoV-2. We revise the hypothesis that oxysterols are a signalling form of cholesterol, in this instance as a rapidly acting and paracrine version of accessible cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
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30
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Politiek FA, Waterham HR. Compromised Protein Prenylation as Pathogenic Mechanism in Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency. Front Immunol 2021; 12:724991. [PMID: 34539662 PMCID: PMC8446354 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.724991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD) is an autoinflammatory metabolic disorder characterized by life-long recurring episodes of fever and inflammation, often without clear cause. MKD is caused by bi-allelic pathogenic variants in the MVK gene, resulting in a decreased activity of the encoded enzyme mevalonate kinase (MK). MK is an essential enzyme in the isoprenoid biosynthesis pathway, which generates both non-sterol and sterol isoprenoids. The inflammatory symptoms of patients with MKD point to a major role for isoprenoids in the regulation of the innate immune system. In particular a temporary shortage of the non-sterol isoprenoid geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) is increasingly linked with inflammation in MKD. The shortage of GGPP compromises protein prenylation, which is thought to be one of the main causes leading to the inflammatory episodes in MKD. In this review, we discuss current views and the state of knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms in MKD, with particular focus on the role of compromised protein prenylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frouwkje A Politiek
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hans R Waterham
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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31
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Bhattarai A, Likos EM, Weyman CM, Shukla GC. Regulation of cholesterol biosynthesis and lipid metabolism: A microRNA management perspective. Steroids 2021; 173:108878. [PMID: 34174291 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2021.108878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cellular disruption of lipid and cholesterol metabolism results in pathological processes linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Classically, at the transcription stages, the Cholesterol levels are controlled by two cellular pathways. First, the SREBP transcription factor family controls Cholesterol biosynthesis via transcriptional regulation of critical rate-limiting cholesterogenic and lipogenic proteins. Secondly, The LXR/RXR transcription factor family controls cholesterol shuttling via transcriptional regulation of cholesterol transport proteins. In addition, the posttranscriptional control of gene expression of various enzymes and proteins of cholesterol biosynthesis pathways is mediated by small non-coding microRNAs. Regulatory noncoding miRNAs are critical regulators of biological processes, including developmental and metabolic functions. miRNAs function to fine-tune lipid and cholesterol metabolism pathways by controlling the mRNA levels and translation of critical molecules in each pathway. This review discusses the regulatory roles of miRNAs in cholesterol and lipid metabolism via direct and indirect effects on their target genes, including SREBP, LXR, HDL, LDL, and ABCA transporters. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of miRNA functions and their purported role in the potentiation of small molecule therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Bhattarai
- Center for Gene Regulation, Department of Biological, Geo and EVS Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
| | - Eviania M Likos
- Center for Gene Regulation, Department of Biological, Geo and EVS Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
| | - Crystal M Weyman
- Center for Gene Regulation, Department of Biological, Geo and EVS Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
| | - Girish C Shukla
- Center for Gene Regulation, Department of Biological, Geo and EVS Sciences, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
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32
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Schumacher MM, DeBose-Boyd RA. Posttranslational Regulation of HMG CoA Reductase, the Rate-Limiting Enzyme in Synthesis of Cholesterol. Annu Rev Biochem 2021; 90:659-679. [PMID: 34153214 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-081820-101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The polytopic, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane protein 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase produces mevalonate, the key intermediate in the synthesis of cholesterol and many nonsterol isoprenoids including geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGpp). Transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational feedback mechanisms converge on this reductase to ensure cells maintain a sufficient supply of essential nonsterol isoprenoids but avoid overaccumulation of cholesterol and other sterols. The focus of this review is mechanisms for the posttranslational regulation of HMG CoA reductase, which include sterol-accelerated ubiquitination and ER-associated degradation (ERAD) that is augmented by GGpp. We discuss how GGpp-induced ER-to-Golgi trafficking of the vitamin K2 synthetic enzyme UbiA prenyltransferase domain-containing protein-1 (UBIAD1) modulates HMG CoA reductase ERAD to balance the synthesis of sterol and nonsterol isoprenoids. We also summarize the characterization of genetically manipulated mice, which established that sterol-accelerated, UBIAD1-modulated ERAD plays a major role in regulation of HMG CoA reductase and cholesterol metabolism in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc M Schumacher
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA;
| | - Russell A DeBose-Boyd
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA;
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33
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Li H, Yu XH, Ou X, Ouyang XP, Tang CK. Hepatic cholesterol transport and its role in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and atherosclerosis. Prog Lipid Res 2021; 83:101109. [PMID: 34097928 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2021.101109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a quickly emerging global health problem representing the most common chronic liver disease in the world. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease represents the leading cause of mortality in NAFLD patients. Cholesterol metabolism has a crucial role in the pathogenesis of both NAFLD and atherosclerosis. The liver is the major organ for cholesterol metabolism. Abnormal hepatic cholesterol metabolism not only leads to NAFLD but also drives the development of atherosclerotic dyslipidemia. The cholesterol level in hepatocytes reflects the dynamic balance between endogenous synthesis, uptake, esterification, and export, a process in which cholesterol is converted to neutral cholesteryl esters either for storage in cytosolic lipid droplets or for secretion as a major constituent of plasma lipoproteins, including very-low-density lipoproteins, chylomicrons, high-density lipoproteins, and low-density lipoproteins. In this review, we describe decades of research aimed at identifying key molecules and cellular players involved in each main aspect of hepatic cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, we summarize the recent advances regarding the biological processes of hepatic cholesterol transport and its role in NAFLD and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Li
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Yu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 460106, China
| | - Xiang Ou
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan 410005, China
| | - Xin-Ping Ouyang
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Chao-Ke Tang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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34
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Kim KM, Kim CH, Cho KH, Jang WG. Policosanol attenuates Pi-induced calcification via AMPK-mediated INSIGs expression in rat VSMCs. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2021; 48:1336-1345. [PMID: 34053129 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Policosanol is a hypocholesterolemic derived from sugar cane and corn that downregulates blood cholesterol levels. It can further lower blood pressure and reduce liver inflammation. Policosanol can also affect vascular calcification, however, its molecular mechanisms are not well understood. This study investigated the effect of policosanol on vascular calcification and its molecular mechanism. Policosanol decreased the expression of inorganic phosphate (Pi)-induced osteogenic genes such as distal-less homeobox 5 (Dlx5) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). In addition, following policosanol treatment, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation increased in a time-dependent manner. The constitutively active form of AMPK (CA-AMPK) dramatically suppressed Pi-induced Dlx5 and Runx2 protein levels. Inactivation of AMPK using compound C (Com. C; AMPK inhibitor) recovered policosanol-suppressed Alizarin Red S staining levels. Insulin-induced genes (INSIGs) were induced by CA-AMPK, their overexpression suppressed Pi-induced Dlx5 and Runx2 expression. Taken together, the results demonstrate that policosanol inhibits Pi-induced vascular calcification by regulating AMPK-induced INSIG expression in vascular smooth muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong-Min Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Engineering, Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea.,Research institute of Anti-Aging, Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Kyung-Hyun Cho
- LipoLab, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Gu Jang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Engineering, Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea.,Research institute of Anti-Aging, Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
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35
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Arines FM, Hamlin AJ, Yang X, Liu YYJ, Li M. A selective transmembrane recognition mechanism by a membrane-anchored ubiquitin ligase adaptor. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:211632. [PMID: 33351099 PMCID: PMC7759299 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
While it is well-known that E3 ubiquitin ligases can selectively ubiquitinate membrane proteins in response to specific environmental cues, the underlying mechanisms for the selectivity are poorly understood. In particular, the role of transmembrane regions, if any, in target recognition remains an open question. Here, we describe how Ssh4, a yeast E3 ligase adaptor, recognizes the PQ-loop lysine transporter Ypq1 only after lysine starvation. We show evidence of an interaction between two transmembrane helices of Ypq1 (TM5 and TM7) and the single transmembrane helix of Ssh4. This interaction is regulated by the conserved PQ motif. Strikingly, recent structural studies of the PQ-loop family have suggested that TM5 and TM7 undergo major conformational changes during substrate transport, implying that transport-associated conformational changes may determine the selectivity. These findings thus provide critical information concerning the regulatory mechanism through which transmembrane domains can be specifically recognized in response to changing environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felichi Mae Arines
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Aaron Jeremy Hamlin
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Yun-Yu Jennifer Liu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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36
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González-Hódar L, McDonald JG, Vale G, Thompson BM, Figueroa AM, Tapia PJ, Robledo F, Agarwal AK, Garg A, Horton JD, Cortés V. Decreased caveolae in AGPAT2 lacking adipocytes is independent of changes in cholesterol or sphingolipid levels: A whole cell and plasma membrane lipidomic analysis of adipogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166167. [PMID: 33989739 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adipocytes from lipodystrophic Agpat2-/- mice have impaired adipogenesis and fewer caveolae. Herein, we examined whether these defects are associated with changes in lipid composition or abnormal levels of caveolae-associated proteins. Lipidome changes were quantified in differentiated Agpat2-/- adipocytes to identify lipids with potential adipogenic roles. METHODS Agpat2-/- and wild type brown preadipocytes were differentiated in vitro. Plasma membrane was purified by ultracentrifugation. Number of caveolae and caveolae-associated proteins, as well as sterol, sphingolipid, and phospholipid lipidome were determined across differentiation. RESULTS Differentiated Agpat2-/- adipocytes had decreased caveolae number but conserved insulin signaling. Caveolin-1 and cavin-1 levels were equivalent between Agpat2-/- and wild type adipocytes. No differences in PM cholesterol and sphingolipids abundance were detected between genotypes. Levels of phosphatidylserine at day 10 of differentiation were increased in Agpat2-/- adipocytes. Wild type adipocytes had increased whole cell triglyceride, diacylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidic acid, lysophosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylethanolamine, and trihexosyl ceramide, and decreased 24,25-dihydrolanosterol and sitosterol, as a result of adipogenic differentiation. By contrast, adipogenesis did not modify whole cell neutral lipids but increased lysophosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin, and trihexosyl ceramide levels in Agpat2-/- adipocytes. Unexpectedly, adipogenesis decreased PM levels of main phospholipids in both genotypes. CONCLUSION In Agpat2-/- adipocytes, decreased caveolae is not associated with changes in PM cholesterol nor sphingolipid levels; however, increased PM phosphatidylserine content may be implicated. Abnormal lipid composition is associated with the adipogenic abnormalities of Agpat2 -/- adipocytes but does not prevent insulin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila González-Hódar
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Chile
| | - Jeffrey G McDonald
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9046, United States
| | - Goncalo Vale
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Bonne M Thompson
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Ana-María Figueroa
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Chile
| | - Pablo J Tapia
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Chile
| | - Fermín Robledo
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Chile
| | - Anil K Agarwal
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Center for Human Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Abhimanyu Garg
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Center for Human Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Jay D Horton
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9046, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9046, United States.
| | - Víctor Cortés
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Chile.
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37
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Liu R, Xia R, Xie Q, Wu Y. Endoplasmic reticulum-related E3 ubiquitin ligases: Key regulators of plant growth and stress responses. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 2:100186. [PMID: 34027397 PMCID: PMC8132179 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2021.100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has revealed that the ubiquitin proteasome system plays fundamental roles in the regulation of diverse cellular activities in eukaryotes. The ubiquitin protein ligases (E3s) are central to the proteasome system because of their ability to determine its substrate specificity. Several studies have demonstrated the essential role of a group of ER (endoplasmic reticulum)-localized E3s in the positive or negative regulation of cell homeostasis. Most ER-related E3s are conserved between plants and mammals, and a few plant-specific components have been reported. In this review, we summarize the functions of ER-related E3s in plant growth, ER-associated protein degradation and ER-phagy, abiotic and biotic stress responses, and hormone signaling. Furthermore, we highlight several questions that remain to be addressed and suggest directions for further research on ER-related E3 ubiquitin ligases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ran Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Qi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yaorong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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38
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Discovery of an orally active VHL-recruiting PROTAC that achieves robust HMGCR degradation and potent hypolipidemic activity in vivo. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:1300-1314. [PMID: 34094835 PMCID: PMC8148065 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) protein is usually upregulated after statin (HMGCR inhibitor) treatment, which inevitably diminishes its therapeutic efficacy, provoking the need for higher doses associated with adverse effects. The proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology has recently emerged as a powerful approach for inducing protein degradation. Nonetheless, due to their bifunctional nature, developing orally bioavailable PROTACs remains a great challenge. Herein, we identified a powerful HMGCR-targeted PROTAC (21c) comprising a VHL ligand conjugated to lovastatin acid that potently degrades HMGCR in Insig-silenced HepG2 cells (DC50 = 120 nmol/L) and forms a stable ternary complex, as predicated by a holistic modeling protocol. Most importantly, oral administration of the corresponding lactone 21b reveled favorable plasma exposures referring to both the parent 21b and the conversed acid 21c. Further in vivo studies of 21b demonstrated robust HMGCR degradation and potent cholesterol reduction in mice with diet-induced hypercholesterolemia, highlighting a promising strategy for treating hyperlipidemia and associated diseases.
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Key Words
- CRBN, cereblon
- CVD, cardiovascular disease
- Cholesterol reduction
- DC50, half degradation concentration
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- H&E, hematoxylin/eosin
- HDAC, histone deacetylase
- HMGCR
- HMGCR, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase
- LDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
- MFD, medium fat diet
- ORO, oil-red O
- Oral bioavailability
- PK, pharmacokinetic
- PROTAC, proteolysis-targeting chimera
- PROTACs
- SAR, structure–activity relationship
- TC, total cholesterol
- TG, triglyceride
- VHL, von Hippel-Lindau
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39
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Sharpe LJ, Coates HW, Brown AJ. Post-translational control of the long and winding road to cholesterol. J Biol Chem 2021; 295:17549-17559. [PMID: 33453997 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.010723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of cholesterol requires more than 20 enzymes, many of which are intricately regulated. Post-translational control of these enzymes provides a rapid means for modifying flux through the pathway. So far, several enzymes have been shown to be rapidly degraded through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in response to cholesterol and other sterol intermediates. Additionally, several enzymes have their activity altered through phosphorylation mechanisms. Most work has focused on the two rate-limiting enzymes: 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase and squalene monooxygenase. Here, we review current literature in the area to define some common themes in the regulation of the entire cholesterol synthesis pathway. We highlight the rich variety of inputs controlling each enzyme, discuss the interplay that exists between regulatory mechanisms, and summarize findings that reveal an intricately coordinated network of regulation along the cholesterol synthesis pathway. We provide a roadmap for future research into the post-translational control of cholesterol synthesis, and no doubt the road ahead will reveal further twists and turns for this fascinating pathway crucial for human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Sharpe
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hudson W Coates
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew J Brown
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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40
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Vona R, Iessi E, Matarrese P. Role of Cholesterol and Lipid Rafts in Cancer Signaling: A Promising Therapeutic Opportunity? Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:622908. [PMID: 33816471 PMCID: PMC8017202 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.622908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is a lipid molecule that plays an essential role in a number of biological processes, both physiological and pathological. It is an essential structural constituent of cell membranes, and it is fundamental for biosynthesis, integrity, and functions of biological membranes, including membrane trafficking and signaling. Moreover, cholesterol is the major lipid component of lipid rafts, a sort of lipid-based structures that regulate the assembly and functioning of numerous cell signaling pathways, including those related to cancer, such as tumor cell growth, adhesion, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Considering the importance of cholesterol metabolism, its homeostasis is strictly regulated at every stage: import, synthesis, export, metabolism, and storage. The alterations of this homeostatic balance are known to be associated with cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis, but mounting evidence also connects these behaviors to increased cancer risks. Although there is conflicting evidence on the role of cholesterol in cancer development, most of the studies consistently suggest that a dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis could lead to cancer development. This review aims to discuss the current understanding of cholesterol homeostasis in normal and cancerous cells, summarizing key findings from recent preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated the role of major players in cholesterol regulation and the organization of lipid rafts, which could represent promising therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Vona
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità [Italian National Institute of Health], Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Iessi
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità [Italian National Institute of Health], Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Matarrese
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità [Italian National Institute of Health], Rome, Italy
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41
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Wang Y, Yutuc E, Griffiths WJ. Cholesterol metabolism pathways - are the intermediates more important than the products? FEBS J 2021; 288:3727-3745. [PMID: 33506652 PMCID: PMC8653896 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Every cell in vertebrates possesses the machinery to synthesise cholesterol and to metabolise it. The major route of cholesterol metabolism is conversion to bile acids. Bile acids themselves are interesting molecules being ligands to nuclear and G protein‐coupled receptors, but perhaps the intermediates in the bile acid biosynthesis pathways are even more interesting and equally important. Here, we discuss the biological activity of the different intermediates generated in the various bile acid biosynthesis pathways. We put forward the hypothesis that the acidic pathway of bile acid biosynthesis has primary evolved to generate signalling molecules and its utilisation by hepatocytes provides an added bonus of producing bile acids to aid absorption of lipids in the intestine.
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42
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Cohain AT, Barrington WT, Jordan DM, Beckmann ND, Argmann CA, Houten SM, Charney AW, Ermel R, Sukhavasi K, Franzen O, Koplev S, Whatling C, Belbin GM, Yang J, Hao K, Kenny EE, Tu Z, Zhu J, Gan LM, Do R, Giannarelli C, Kovacic JC, Ruusalepp A, Lusis AJ, Bjorkegren JLM, Schadt EE. An integrative multiomic network model links lipid metabolism to glucose regulation in coronary artery disease. Nat Commun 2021; 12:547. [PMID: 33483510 PMCID: PMC7822923 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20750-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Elevated plasma cholesterol and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Individuals treated with cholesterol-lowering statins have increased T2D risk, while individuals with hypercholesterolemia have reduced T2D risk. We explore the relationship between lipid and glucose control by constructing network models from the STARNET study with sequencing data from seven cardiometabolic tissues obtained from CAD patients during coronary artery by-pass grafting surgery. By integrating gene expression, genotype, metabolomic, and clinical data, we identify a glucose and lipid determining (GLD) regulatory network showing inverse relationships with lipid and glucose traits. Master regulators of the GLD network also impact lipid and glucose levels in inverse directions. Experimental inhibition of one of the GLD network master regulators, lanosterol synthase (LSS), in mice confirms the inverse relationships to glucose and lipid levels as predicted by our model and provides mechanistic insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariella T Cohain
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - William T Barrington
- Department of Human Genetics/Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel M Jordan
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Noam D Beckmann
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Carmen A Argmann
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Sander M Houten
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Alexander W Charney
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Raili Ermel
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Oscar Franzen
- Integrated Cardio Metabolic Centre, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Simon Koplev
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Carl Whatling
- Translational Science, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gillian M Belbin
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jialiang Yang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ke Hao
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Eimear E Kenny
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Zhidong Tu
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Li-Ming Gan
- Early Clinical Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ron Do
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Chiara Giannarelli
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jason C Kovacic
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Arno Ruusalepp
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Aldons J Lusis
- Department of Human Genetics/Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Johan L M Bjorkegren
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Clinical Gene Networks AB, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Eric E Schadt
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Sema4, Stamford, CT, USA.
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43
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Sun R, Xu Y, Zhang H, Yang Q, Wang K, Shi Y, Wang Z. Mechanistic Modeling of Gene Regulation and Metabolism Identifies Potential Targets for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Genet 2020; 11:595242. [PMID: 33424926 PMCID: PMC7786279 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.595242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant form of liver cancer and has long been among the top three cancers that cause the most deaths worldwide. Therapeutic options for HCC are limited due to the pronounced tumor heterogeneity. Thus, there is a critical need to study HCC from a systems point of view to discover effective therapeutic targets, such as through the systematic study of disease perturbation in both regulation and metabolism using a unified model. Such integration makes sense for cancers as it links one of the dominant physiological features of cancers (growth, which is driven by metabolic networks) with the primary available omics data source, transcriptomics (which is systematically integrated with metabolism through the regulatory-metabolic network model). Here, we developed an integrated transcriptional regulatory-metabolic model for HCC molecular stratification and the prediction of potential therapeutic targets. To predict transcription factors (TFs) and target genes affecting tumorigenesis, we used two algorithms to reconstruct the genome-scale transcriptional regulatory networks for HCC and normal liver tissue. which were then integrated with corresponding constraint-based metabolic models. Five key TFs affecting cancer cell growth were identified. They included the regulator CREB3L3, which has been associated with poor prognosis. Comprehensive personalized metabolic analysis based on models generated from data of liver HCC in The Cancer Genome Atlas revealed 18 genes essential for tumorigenesis in all three subtypes of patients stratified based on the non-negative matrix factorization method and two other genes (ACADSB and CMPK1) that have been strongly correlated with lower overall survival subtype. Among these 20 genes, 11 are targeted by approved drugs for cancers or cancer-related diseases, and six other genes have corresponding drugs being evaluated experimentally or investigationally. The remaining three genes represent potential targets. We also validated the stratification and prognosis results by an independent dataset of HCC cohort samples (LIRI-JP) from the International Cancer Genome Consortium database. In addition, microRNAs targeting key TFs and genes were also involved in established cancer-related pathways. Taken together, the multi-scale regulatory-metabolic model provided a new approach to assess key mechanisms of HCC cell proliferation in the context of systems and suggested potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yongyong Shi
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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44
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Wangeline MA, Hampton RY. An autonomous, but INSIG-modulated, role for the sterol sensing domain in mallostery-regulated ERAD of yeast HMG-CoA reductase. J Biol Chem 2020; 296:100063. [PMID: 33184059 PMCID: PMC7948459 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.015910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
HMG-CoA reductase (HMGR) undergoes feedback-regulated degradation as part of sterol pathway control. Degradation of the yeast HMGR isozyme Hmg2 is controlled by the sterol pathway intermediate GGPP, which causes misfolding of Hmg2, leading to degradation by the HRD pathway; we call this process mallostery. We evaluated the role of the Hmg2 sterol sensing domain (SSD) in mallostery, as well as the involvement of the highly conserved INSIG proteins. We show that the Hmg2 SSD is critical for regulated degradation of Hmg2 and required for mallosteric misfolding of GGPP as studied by in vitro limited proteolysis. The Hmg2 SSD functions independently of conserved yeast INSIG proteins, but its function was modulated by INSIG, thus imposing a second layer of control on Hmg2 regulation. Mutant analyses indicated that SSD-mediated mallostery occurred prior to and independent of HRD-dependent ubiquitination. GGPP-dependent misfolding was still extant but occurred at a much slower rate in the absence of a functional SSD, indicating that the SSD facilitates a physiologically useful rate of GGPP response and implying that the SSD is not a binding site for GGPP. Nonfunctional SSD mutants allowed us to test the importance of Hmg2 quaternary structure in mallostery: a nonresponsive Hmg2 SSD mutant strongly suppressed regulation of a coexpressed, normal Hmg2. Finally, we have found that GGPP-regulated misfolding occurred in detergent-solubilized Hmg2, a feature that will allow next-level analysis of the mechanism of this novel tactic of ligand-regulated misfolding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A Wangeline
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, UCSD, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Randolph Y Hampton
- Division of Biological Sciences, the Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, UCSD, La Jolla, California, USA.
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45
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Feeding induces cholesterol biosynthesis via the mTORC1-USP20-HMGCR axis. Nature 2020; 588:479-484. [PMID: 33177714 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2928-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential lipid and its synthesis is nutritionally and energetically costly1,2. In mammals, cholesterol biosynthesis increases after feeding and is inhibited under fasting conditions3. However, the regulatory mechanisms of cholesterol biosynthesis at the fasting-feeding transition remain poorly understood. Here we show that the deubiquitylase ubiquitin-specific peptidase 20 (USP20) stabilizes HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR), the rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway, in the feeding state. The post-prandial increase in insulin and glucose concentration stimulates mTORC1 to phosphorylate USP20 at S132 and S134; USP20 is recruited to the HMGCR complex and antagonizes its degradation. The feeding-induced stabilization of HMGCR is abolished in mice with liver-specific Usp20 deletion and in USP20(S132A/S134A) knock-in mice. Genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of USP20 markedly decreases diet-induced body weight gain, reduces lipid levels in the serum and liver, improves insulin sensitivity and increases energy expenditure. These metabolic changes are reversed by expression of the constitutively stable HMGCR(K248R). This study reveals an unexpected regulatory axis from mTORC1 to HMGCR via USP20 phosphorylation and suggests that inhibitors of USP20 could be used to lower cholesterol levels to treat metabolic diseases including hyperlipidaemia, liver steatosis, obesity and diabetes.
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46
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Wang Y, Yutuc E, Griffiths WJ. Neuro-oxysterols and neuro-sterols as ligands to nuclear receptors, GPCRs, ligand-gated ion channels and other protein receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 178:3176-3193. [PMID: 32621622 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is the most cholesterol rich organ in the body containing about 25% of the body's free cholesterol. Cholesterol cannot pass the blood-brain barrier and be imported or exported; instead, it is synthesised in situ and metabolised to oxysterols, oxidised forms of cholesterol, which can pass the blood-brain barrier. 24S-Hydroxycholesterol is the dominant oxysterol in the brain after parturition, but during development, a myriad of other oxysterols are produced, which persist as minor oxysterols after birth. During both development and in later life, sterols and oxysterols interact with a variety of different receptors, including nuclear receptors, membrane bound GPCRs, the oxysterol/sterol sensing proteins INSIG and SCAP, and the ligand-gated ion channel NMDA receptors found in nerve cells. In this review, we summarise the different oxysterols and sterols found in the CNS whose biological activity is transmitted via these different classes of protein receptors. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Oxysterols, Lifelong Health and Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.16/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Wang
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | - Eylan Yutuc
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
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47
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Qin X, Denton WD, Huiting LN, Smith KS, Feng H. Unraveling the regulatory role of endoplasmic-reticulum-associated degradation in tumor immunity. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:322-353. [PMID: 32633575 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1784085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During malignant transformation and cancer progression, tumor cells face both intrinsic and extrinsic stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in particular. To survive and proliferate, tumor cells use multiple stress response pathways to mitigate ER stress, promoting disease aggression and treatment resistance. Among the stress response pathways is ER-associated degradation (ERAD), which consists of multiple components and steps working together to ensure protein quality and quantity. In addition to its established role in stress responses and tumor cell survival, ERAD has recently been shown to regulate tumor immunity. Here we summarize current knowledge on how ERAD promotes protein degradation, regulates immune cell development and function, participates in antigen presentation, exerts paradoxical roles on tumorigenesis and immunity, and thus impacts current cancer therapy. Collectively, ERAD is a critical protein homeostasis pathway intertwined with cancer development and tumor immunity. Of particular importance is the need to further unveil ERAD's enigmatic roles in tumor immunity to develop effective targeted and combination therapy for successful treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Qin
- Departments of Pharmacology and Medicine, Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William D Denton
- Departments of Pharmacology and Medicine, Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leah N Huiting
- Departments of Pharmacology and Medicine, Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kaylee S Smith
- Departments of Pharmacology and Medicine, Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hui Feng
- Departments of Pharmacology and Medicine, Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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48
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Chua NK, Coates HW, Brown AJ. Squalene monooxygenase: a journey to the heart of cholesterol synthesis. Prog Lipid Res 2020; 79:101033. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2020.101033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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49
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The cholesterol synthesis enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase is post-translationally regulated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase MARCH6. Biochem J 2020; 477:541-555. [PMID: 31904814 PMCID: PMC6993871 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20190647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol synthesis is a tightly controlled pathway, with over 20 enzymes involved. Each of these enzymes can be distinctly regulated, helping to fine-tune the production of cholesterol and its functional intermediates. Several enzymes are degraded in response to increased sterol levels, whilst others remain stable. We hypothesised that an enzyme at a key branch point in the pathway, lanosterol 14α-demethylase (LDM) may be post-translationally regulated. Here, we show that the preceding enzyme, lanosterol synthase is stable, whilst LDM is rapidly degraded. Surprisingly, this degradation is not triggered by sterols. However, the E3 ubiquitin ligase membrane-associated ring-CH-type finger 6 (MARCH6), known to control earlier rate-limiting steps in cholesterol synthesis, also control levels of LDM and the terminal cholesterol synthesis enzyme, 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase. Our work highlights MARCH6 as the first example of an E3 ubiquitin ligase that targets multiple steps in a biochemical pathway and indicates new facets in the control of cholesterol synthesis.
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50
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Toyota Y, Yoshioka H, Sagimori I, Hashimoto Y, Ohgane K. Bisphosphonate esters interact with HMG-CoA reductase membrane domain to induce its degradation. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115576. [PMID: 32616181 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) is a rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway, and its catalytic domain is the well-known target of cholesterol-lowering drugs, statins. HMGCR is subject to layers of negative feedback loops; excess cholesterol inhibits transcription of the gene, and lanosterols and oxysterols accelerate degradation of HMGCR. A class of synthetic small molecules, bisphosphonate esters exemplified by SR12813, has been known to induce accelerated degradation of HMGCR and reduce the serum cholesterol level. Although genetic and biochemical studies revealed that the accelerated degradation requires the membrane domain of HMGCR and Insig, an oxysterol sensor on the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, the direct target of the bisphosphonate esters remains unclear. In this study, we developed a potent photoaffinity probe of the bisphosphonate esters through preliminary structure-activity relationship study and demonstrated binding of the bisphosphonate esters to the HMGCR membrane domain. These results provide an important clue to understand the elusive mechanism of the SR12813-mediated HMGCR degradation and serve as a basis to develop more potent HMGCR degraders that target the non-catalytic, membrane domain of the enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Toyota
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113 0032, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Yoshioka
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113 0032, Japan
| | - Ikuya Sagimori
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113 0032, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hashimoto
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113 0032, Japan
| | - Kenji Ohgane
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113 0032, Japan.
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