1
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Xiao Y, Yuan Y, Liu Y, Lin Z, Zheng G, Zhou D, Lv D. Targeted Protein Degradation: Current and Emerging Approaches for E3 Ligase Deconvolution. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38981094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation (TPD), including the use of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glue degraders (MGDs) to degrade proteins, is an emerging strategy to develop novel therapies for cancer and beyond. PROTACs or MGDs function by inducing the proximity between an E3 ligase and a protein of interest (POI), leading to ubiquitination and consequent proteasomal degradation of the POI. Notably, one major issue in TPD is the lack of ligandable E3 ligases, as current studies predominantly use CUL4CRBN and CUL2VHL. The TPD community is seeking to expand the landscape of ligandable E3 ligases, but most discoveries rely on phenotypic screens or serendipity, necessitating systematic target deconvolution. Here, we examine and discuss both current and emerging E3 ligase deconvolution approaches for degraders discovered from phenotypic screens or monovalent glue chemistry campaigns, highlighting future prospects for identifying more ligandable E3 ligases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Xiao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Yaxia Yuan
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Zongtao Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, 1333 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
| | - Dongwen Lv
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology and Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States
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2
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Olie CS, O'Brien DP, Jones HBL, Liang Z, Damianou A, Sur-Erdem I, Pinto-Fernández A, Raz V, Kessler BM. Deubiquitinases in muscle physiology and disorders. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1085-1098. [PMID: 38716888 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
In vivo, muscle and neuronal cells are post-mitotic, and their function is predominantly regulated by proteostasis, a multilayer molecular process that maintains a delicate balance of protein homeostasis. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is a key regulator of proteostasis. A dysfunctional UPS is a hallmark of muscle ageing and is often impacted in neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). Malfunction of the UPS often results in aberrant protein accumulation which can lead to protein aggregation and/or mis-localization affecting its function. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are key players in the UPS, controlling protein turnover and maintaining the free ubiquitin pool. Several mutations in DUB encoding genes are linked to human NMDs, such as ATXN3, OTUD7A, UCHL1 and USP14, whilst other NMDs are associated with dysregulation of DUB expression. USP5, USP9X and USP14 are implicated in synaptic transmission and remodeling at the neuromuscular junction. Mice lacking USP19 show increased maintenance of lean muscle mass. In this review, we highlight the involvement of DUBs in muscle physiology and NMDs, particularly in processes affecting muscle regeneration, degeneration and inflammation following muscle injury. DUBs have recently garnered much respect as promising drug targets, and their roles in muscle maturation, regeneration and degeneration may provide the framework for novel therapeutics to treat muscular disorders including NMDs, sarcopenia and cachexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyriel S Olie
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Darragh P O'Brien
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
| | - Hannah B L Jones
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
| | - Zhu Liang
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
| | - Andreas Damianou
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
| | - Ilknur Sur-Erdem
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, U.K
| | - Adán Pinto-Fernández
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
| | - Vered Raz
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Benedikt M Kessler
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7FZ, U.K
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3
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Shan W, Peng W, Chen Y, Wang Y, Yu Q, Tian Y, Dou Y, Tu J, Huang X, Li X, Wang Z, Zhu Q, Chen J, Xia B. GSK3β and UCHL3 govern RIPK4 homeostasis via deubiquitination to enhance tumor metastasis in ovarian cancer. Oncogene 2024; 43:1885-1899. [PMID: 38664501 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03040-1] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Receptor-interacting protein kinase 4 (RIPK4) is increasingly recognized as a pivotal player in ovarian cancer, promoting tumorigenesis and disease progression. Despite its significance, the posttranslational modifications dictating RIPK4 stability in ovarian cancer remain largely uncharted. In this study, we first established that RIPK4 levels are markedly higher in metastatic than in primary ovarian cancer tissues through single-cell sequencing. Subsequently, we identified UCHL3 as a key deubiquitinase that regulates RIPK4. We elucidate the mechanism that UCHL3 interacts with and deubiquitinates RIPK4 at the K469 site, removing the K48-linked ubiquitin chain and thus enhancing RIPK4 stabilization. Intriguingly, inhibition of UCHL3 activity using TCID leads to increased RIPK4 ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, we discovered that GSK3β-mediated phosphorylation of RIPK4 at Ser420 enhances its interaction with UCHL3, facilitating further deubiquitination and stabilization. Functionally, RIPK4 was found to drive the proliferation and metastasis of ovarian cancer in a UCHL3-dependent manner both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, positive correlations between RIPK4 and UCHL3 protein expression levels were observed, with both serving as indicators of poor prognosis in ovarian cancer patients. Overall, this study uncovers a novel pathway wherein GSK3β-induced phosphorylation of RIPK4 strengthens its interaction with UCHL3, leading to increased deubiquitination and stabilization of RIPK4, thereby promoting ovarian cancer metastasis. These findings offer new insights into the molecular underpinnings of ovarian cancer and highlight potential therapeutic targets for enhancing antitumor efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wulin Shan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Wenju Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, 233030, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, 233030, China
| | - Qiongli Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Yingyu Dou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Jinqi Tu
- Hefei Jingdongfang Hospital, Hefei, Anhui, 230011, China
| | - Xu Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Zengying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, 233030, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China
| | - Jiming Chen
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213000, China.
| | - Bairong Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, 233030, China.
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4
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Cao X, Yan Z, Chen Z, Ge Y, Hu X, Peng F, Huang W, Zhang P, Sun R, Chen J, Ding M, Zong D, He X. The Emerging Role of Deubiquitinases in Radiosensitivity. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 118:1347-1370. [PMID: 38092257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a primary treatment for cancer, but radioresistance remains a significant challenge in improving efficacy and reducing toxicity. Accumulating evidence suggests that deubiquitinases (DUBs) play a crucial role in regulating cell sensitivity to ionizing radiation. Traditional small-molecule DUB inhibitors have demonstrated radiosensitization effects, and novel deubiquitinase-targeting chimeras (DUBTACs) provide a promising strategy for radiosensitizer development by harnessing the ubiquitin-proteasome system. This review highlights the mechanisms by which DUBs regulate radiosensitivity, including DNA damage repair, the cell cycle, cell death, and hypoxia. Progress on DUB inhibitors and DUBTACs is summarized, and their potential radiosensitization effects are discussed. Developing drugs targeting DUBs appears to be a promising alternative approach to overcoming radioresistance, warranting further research into their mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Cao
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhenyu Yan
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zihan Chen
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yizhi Ge
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyu Hu
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanyu Peng
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxuan Huang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pingchuan Zhang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruozhou Sun
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiazhen Chen
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingjun Ding
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Zong
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xia He
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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5
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Kumar S, Nabet B. A chemical magnet: Approaches to guide precise protein localization. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 102:117672. [PMID: 38461554 PMCID: PMC11064470 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117672] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Small molecules that chemically induce proximity between two proteins have been widely used to precisely modulate protein levels, stability, and activity. Recently, several studies developed novel strategies that employ heterobifunctional molecules that co-opt shuttling proteins to control the spatial localization of a target protein, unlocking new potential within this domain. Together, these studies lay the groundwork for novel targeted protein relocalization modalities that can rewire the protein circuitry and interactome to influence biological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Kumar
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Behnam Nabet
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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6
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Utgés JS, MacGowan SA, Ives CM, Barton GJ. Classification of likely functional class for ligand binding sites identified from fragment screening. Commun Biol 2024; 7:320. [PMID: 38480979 PMCID: PMC10937669 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05970-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragment screening is used to identify binding sites and leads in drug discovery, but it is often unclear which binding sites are functionally important. Here, data from 37 experiments, and 1309 protein structures binding to 1601 ligands were analysed. A method to group ligands by binding sites is introduced and sites clustered according to profiles of relative solvent accessibility. This identified 293 unique ligand binding sites, grouped into four clusters (C1-4). C1 includes larger, buried, conserved, and population missense-depleted sites, enriched in known functional sites. C4 comprises smaller, accessible, divergent, missense-enriched sites, depleted in functional sites. A site in C1 is 28 times more likely to be functional than one in C4. Seventeen sites, which to the best of our knowledge are novel, in 13 proteins are identified as likely to be functionally important with examples from human tenascin and 5-aminolevulinate synthase highlighted. A multi-layer perceptron, and K-nearest neighbours model are presented to predict cluster labels for ligand binding sites with an accuracy of 96% and 100%, respectively, so allowing functional classification of sites for proteins not in this set. Our findings will be of interest to those studying protein-ligand interactions and developing new drugs or function modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier S Utgés
- Division of Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Stuart A MacGowan
- Division of Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Callum M Ives
- Division of Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
- Department of Chemistry and Hamilton Institute, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Geoffrey J Barton
- Division of Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK.
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7
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Koe JC, Parker SJ. The posttranslational regulation of amino acid transporters is critical for their function in the tumor microenvironment. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2024; 85:103022. [PMID: 38056204 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.103022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Amino acid transporters (AATs) facilitate nutrient uptake and nutrient exchange between cancer and stromal cells. The posttranslational modification (PTM) of transporters is an important mechanism that tumor-associated cells use to dynamically regulate their function and stability in response to microenvironmental cues. In this review, we summarize recent findings that demonstrate the significance of N-glycosylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitylation for the function of AATs. We also highlight powerful approaches that hijack the PTM machinery that could be used as therapeutics or tools to modulate transporter activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Koe
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Seth J Parker
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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8
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Chen Y, Jiang Z, Yang Y, Zhang C, Liu H, Wan J. The functions and mechanisms of post-translational modification in protein regulators of RNA methylation: Current status and future perspectives. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126773. [PMID: 37690652 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
RNA methylation, an epigenetic modification that does not alter gene sequence, may be important to diverse biological processes. Protein regulators of RNA methylation include "writers," "erasers," and "readers," which respectively deposit, remove, and recognize methylated RNA. RNA methylation, particularly N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N3-methylcytosine (m3C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A) and N7-methylguanosine (m7G), has been suggested as disease therapeutic targets. Despite advances in the structure and pharmacology of RNA methylation regulators that have improved drug discovery, regulating these proteins by various post-translational modifications (PTMs) has received little attention. PTM modifies protein structure and function, affecting all aspects of normal biology and pathogenesis, including immunology, cell differentiation, DNA damage repair, and tumors. It is becoming evident that RNA methylation regulators are also regulated by diverse PTMs. PTM of RNA methylation regulators induces their covalent linkage to new functional groups, hence modifying their activity and function. Mass spectrometry has identified many PTMs on protein regulators of RNA methylation. In this review, we describe the functions and PTM of protein regulators of RNA methylation and summarize the recent advances in the regulatory mode of human disease and its underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youming Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zuli Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chenxing Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hongyang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Junhu Wan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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9
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Xue T, Fei S, Gu J, Li N, Zhang P, Liu X, Thompson PR, Zhang X. Inhibiting MEK1 R189 citrullination enhances the chemosensitivity of docetaxel to multiple tumour cells. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220246. [PMID: 37778380 PMCID: PMC10542448 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is still a big challenge for cancer patients. We previously demonstrated that inhibiting peptidylarginine deiminase 2 (PADI2) enzyme activity with Cl-amine increases the efficacy of docetaxel (Doc) on tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cells with PADI2 expression. However, it is not clear whether this effect applies to other tumour cells. Here, we collected four types of tumour cells with different PADIs expression and fully evaluated the inhibitory effect of the combination of PADIs inhibitor (BB-Cla) and Doc in vitro and in vivo on tumour cell growth. Results show that inhibiting PADIs combined with Doc additively inhibits tumour cell growth across the four tumour cells. PADI2-catalysed citrullination of MEK1 Arg 189 exists in the four tumour cells, and blocking the function of MEK1 Cit189 promotes the anti-tumour effect of Doc in these tumour cells. Further analysis shows that inhibiting MEK1 Cit189 decreases the expression of cancer cell stemness factors and helps prevent cancer cell stemness maintenance. Importantly, this combined treatment can partially restore the sensitivity of chemotherapy-resistant cells to docetaxel or cisplatin in tumour cells. Thus, our study provides an experimental basis for the combined therapeutic approaches using docetaxel- and PADIs inhibitors-based strategies in tumour treatment. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'The virtues and vices of protein citrullination'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Xue
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujia Fei
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengxue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqiu Liu
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Paul R Thompson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Xuesen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
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10
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Lui K, Huang Y, Sheikh MS, Cheung KK, Tam WY, Sun KT, Cheng KM, Ng WWM, Loh AWK. The oncogenic potential of Rab-like protein 1A (RBEL1A) GTPase: The first review of RBEL1A research with future research directions and challenges. J Cancer 2023; 14:3214-3226. [PMID: 37928422 PMCID: PMC10622986 DOI: 10.7150/jca.84267] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on Rab-like protein 1A (RBEL1A) in the past two decades highlighted the oncogenic properties of this gene. Despite the emerging evidence, its importance in cancer biology was underrated. This is the first RBEL1A critical review covering its discovery, biochemistry, physiological functions, and clinical insights. RBEL1A expression at the appropriate levels appears essential in normal cells and tissues to maintain chromosomal stability; however, its overexpression is linked to tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the upstream and downstream targets of the RBEL1A signaling pathways will be discussed. Mechanistically, RBEL1A promotes cell proliferation signals by enhancing the Erk1/2, Akt, c-Myc, and CDK pathways while blunting the apoptotic signals via inhibitions on p53, Rb, and caspase pathways. More importantly, this review covers the clinical relevance of RBEL1A in the cancer field, such as drug resistance and poor overall survival rate. Also, this review points out the bottle-necks of the RBEL1A research and its future research directions. It is becoming clear that RBEL1A could potentially serve as a valuable target of anticancer therapy. Genetic and pharmacological researches are expected to facilitate the identification and development of RBEL1A inhibitors as cancer therapeutics in the future, which could undoubtedly improve the management of human malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Lui
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - M. Saeed Sheikh
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Kwok-Kuen Cheung
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Wing Yip Tam
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Keng-Ting Sun
- Division of Medical Sciences & Graduate Entry Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ka Ming Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | | | - Anthony Wai-Keung Loh
- Division of Science, Engineering and Health Studies (SEHS), College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Gan Y, Chen X, Li Y, Guo Y, Wang R. Sequential Azidation/Azolation of Prenylated Derivatives and a Click Reaction Enable Selective Labeling and Degradation of RAS Protein. J Org Chem 2023; 88:10836-10843. [PMID: 37462271 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
We propose the introduction of the azido and azo-functionalities into prenylated derivatives under mild conditions in a selective and efficient way. Upon protocol establishment and substrate scope determination, we apply this method to prenylated protein (citronellol-BSA) labeling, chemical pulldown, and enrichment. Eventually, we achieve the degradation of RAS on MCF-7 and HeLa cell lines by employing the well-designed probe von Hippel-Lindau derivatives C4 through the sequential azidation/azolation and click-reaction (SACR) pathway targeting the prenyl functionality attached to the Caax motif of the tested RAS protein. This method displays great potential in regulation of prenylated molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youfang Gan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xiaoqian Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yuyang Guo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518063, China
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Lu T, Xu R, Wang C, Zhou X, Parra-Medina R, Díaz-Peña R, Peng B, Zhang L. Bioinformatics analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing: elucidating the ubiquitination pathways and key enzymes in lung adenocarcinoma. J Thorac Dis 2023; 15:3885-3907. [PMID: 37559628 PMCID: PMC10407523 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-23-795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a prevalent subtype of lung cancer associated with high mortality rates. We aimed to utilize single-cell multiomics analysis to identify the key molecules involved in ubiquitination modification, which plays a role in LUAD development and progression. METHODS We use a systematic approach to analyze LUAD-related single-cell and bulk transcriptome datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were normalized, clustered, and annotated with the Seurat package in R. InferCNV was used to distinguish malignant from epithelial cells, and AUCell evaluated the area under the curve (AUC) score of ubiquitination-related enzymes. Survival and differential analyses identified significant molecular markers associated with ubiquitination. PSMD14 expression was confirmed using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot assays, and its knockdown cell lines were assessed for effects on cellular processes and tumor formation in mice. PSMD14's interacting proteins were predicted, and its impact on AGR2 protein half-life and ubiquitination was evaluated. Rescue experiments involving PSMD14 overexpression and AGR2 silencing assessed their impact on malignant behaviors. RESULTS By means of single-cell sequencing analysis, we probed the ubiquitination modification landscape in the LUAD microenvironment. Malignant cells had elevated scores for enzymes and ubiquitin-binding domains compared to normal epithelial cells, with 53 ubiquitination-related molecules showing prognostic disparities. FGR, PSMD14, and ZBTB16 were identified as genes with prognostic significance, with PSMD14 showing higher expression in epithelial and malignant cells. Two missense mutation sites were identified in PSMD14, which had a high copy number amplification ratio and positive correlation with messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. PSMD14 expression and tumor stage were found to be independent prognostic factors, and interfering with PSMD14 expression reduced the malignant behavior of LUAD cells. PSMD14 was found to bind to AGR2 protein and reduce its ubiquitination, leading to increased AGR2 stability. Knockdown of AGR2 inhibited the enhancement of cell viability, invasion, and migration resulting from PSMD14 overexpression. CONCLUSIONS This study examined ubiquitination modifications in LUAD using sequencing data, identifying PSMD14's critical role in malignancy regulation and its potential as a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker. These insights enhance understanding of LUAD mechanisms and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Ran Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chenghao Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Rafael Parra-Medina
- Department of Pathology, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud, Hospital San José, Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Institute (INC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Roberto Díaz-Peña
- Fundación Pública Galega de Medicina Xenómica, SERGAS, Grupo de Medicina Xenómica-USC, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Linyou Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Liu X, Ciulli A. Proximity-Based Modalities for Biology and Medicine. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:1269-1284. [PMID: 37521793 PMCID: PMC10375889 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Molecular proximity orchestrates biological function, and blocking existing proximities is an established therapeutic strategy. By contrast, strengthening or creating neoproximity with chemistry enables modulation of biological processes with high selectivity and has the potential to substantially expand the target space. A plethora of proximity-based modalities to target proteins via diverse approaches have recently emerged, opening opportunities for biopharmaceutical innovation. This Outlook outlines the diverse mechanisms and molecules based on induced proximity, including protein degraders, blockers, and stabilizers, inducers of protein post-translational modifications, and agents for cell therapy, and discusses opportunities and challenges that the field must address to mature and unlock translation in biology and medicine.
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