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Li J, Wu R, Wang Y, Ma J, Peng Z, Luo W, Liu T, Shu D, Qu H. A selection breeding pattern for sexually dimorphic breast plumage color in Guangxi Yao chickens. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104218. [PMID: 39190997 PMCID: PMC11396058 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The breast plumage color of Guangxi Yao chickens shows obvious sexual dimorphism, with roosters showing black and black with red, and hens displaying partridge and red. Black plumage in roosters is considered a sign of quality, necessitating the purification of plumage color. Here, we developed an effective method based on genetic variations within MC1R and plumage characteristics. We clarified the distribution of 5 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and 3 haplotypes (H1, H2, and H3) of MC1R gene, and revealed potential associations between haplotype H1 and black breast plumage in the F2 resource population derived from a backcross between Guangxi Yao and Yellow chickens. Subsequently, using H1/H1 diplotype roosters and hens to construct families (n = 1,244) notably increased the proportion of offspring with black plumage. Further analysis suggested that red plumage in hens may be the putative phenotype of black plumage in roosters, driven by haplotype H1 of the MC1R gene, as verified by genotype and phenotype analysis. As expected, we found that almost all male offspring of hens with red breast plumage showed black plumage. In short, we established a selection pattern based on the combination of black-plumage roosters and red-plumage hens can significantly purify the sexually dimorphic plumage color and improve the efficiency of breeding programs in Guangxi Yao chickens. Our findings provide a novel technical framework to accelerate the breeding process for plumage trait in poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Agro-Biological Gene Research Center, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Rifu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Jie Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; Guangdong Wiz Agricultural Science & Technology Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Zhi Peng
- Guangdong Wiz Agricultural Science & Technology Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Tianfei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Dingming Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Hao Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
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Turner C, Pardo LM, Gunn DA, Zillmer R, Mekić S, Liu F, Ikram MA, Klaver CCW, Croll PH, Goedegebure A, Trajanoska K, Rivadeneira F, Kavousi M, Brusselle GGO, Kayser M, Nijsten T, Bacardit J. Deep learning predicted perceived age is a reliable approach for analysis of facial ageing: A proof of principle study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2024. [PMID: 39360788 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.20365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perceived age (PA) has been associated with mortality, genetic variants linked to ageing and several age-related morbidities. However, estimating PA in large datasets is laborious and costly to generate, limiting its practical applicability. OBJECTIVES To determine if estimating PA using deep learning-based algorithms results in the same associations with morbidities and genetic variants as human-estimated perceived age. METHODS Self-supervised learning (SSL) and deep feature transfer (DFT) deep learning (DL) approaches were trained and tested on human-estimated PAs and their corresponding frontal face images of middle-aged to elderly Dutch participants (n = 2679) from a population-based study in the Netherlands. We compared the DL-estimated PAs with morbidities previously associated with human-estimated PA as well as genetic variants in the gene MC1R; we additionally tested the PA associations with MC1R in a new validation cohort (n = 1158). RESULTS The DL approaches predicted PA in this population with a mean absolute error of 2.84 years (DFT) and 2.39 years (SSL). In the training-test dataset, we found the same significant (p < 0.05) associations for DL PA with osteoporosis, ARHL, cognition, COPD and cataracts and MC1R, as with human PA. We also found a similar but less significant association for SSL and DFT PAs (0.69 and 0.71 years per allele, p = 0.008 and 0.011, respectively) with MC1R variants in the validation dataset as that found with human, SSL and DFT PAs in the training-test dataset (0.79, 0.78 and 0.71 years per allele respectively; all p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Deep learning methods can automatically estimate PA from facial images with enough accuracy to replicate known links between human-estimated perceived age and several age-related morbidities. Furthermore, DL predicted perceived age associated with MC1R gene variants in a validation cohort. Hence, such DL PA techniques may be used instead of human estimations in perceived age studies thereby reducing time and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor Turner
- Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems (ICOS) Research Group, School of Computing, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Luba M Pardo
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David A Gunn
- Unilever King's Biosciences Innovation Hub, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Selma Mekić
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline C W Klaver
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pauline H Croll
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - André Goedegebure
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katerina Trajanoska
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fernando Rivadeneira
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy G O Brusselle
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Manfred Kayser
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tamar Nijsten
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaume Bacardit
- Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems (ICOS) Research Group, School of Computing, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Zhang Y, Fan S, He L, Li L. The ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily: From biological functions to therapeutic targets of diseases. Pharmacol Res 2024; 209:107418. [PMID: 39306022 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107418] [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] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 09/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024]
Abstract
The ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily belongs to the zinc finger DHHC-domain containing (ZDHHC) family, including ZDHHC13 and ZDHHC17. Recent studies have shown that the ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily is involved in various pathological and physiological processes, including S-palmitoylation, Mg2+ transport, and CALCOCO1-mediated Golgiphagy. Moreover, the ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily plays a crucial role in the occurrence and development of many diseases, including Huntington disease (HD), osteoporosis, atopic dermatitis, diabetes, and cancer. In the present review, we describe the distribution, structure, and post-translational modifications (PTMs) of the ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily. Moreover, we effectively summarize the biological functions and associated diseases of this subfamily. Given the pleiotropy of the ZDHHC13/ZDHHC17 subfamily, it is imperative to conduct further research on its members to comprehend the pertinent pathophysiological mechanisms and to devise tactics for managing and controlling various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Sisi Fan
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Lu He
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Lanfang Li
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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Zhu S, Zou M, Li C, Tang Y, Luo H, Dong X. MC1R regulates T regulatory cell differentiation through metabolic reprogramming to promote colon cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112546. [PMID: 38917522 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112546] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until 2021, colon cancer was a leading cancer globally. Early detection improves outcomes; however, advanced cases still having poor prognosis. Therefore, an understanding of associated molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing new preventive and therapeutic strategies for colon cancer. METHODS The TCGA database was analyzed to assess melanocortin 1receptor (MC1R) expression in colon cancer and its link with patient prognosis. Further, models and diverse experimental techniques were employed to investigate the impact of MC1R on colon cancer progression and its underlying mechanism was elucidated. RESULTS In a follow-up study of clinical patients, the important role of MC1R was identified in the development of colon cancer. First, MC1R was expressed more highly in colon tumor tissues than in adjacent tissues. In addition, MC1R was associated with colon cancer prognosis, and higher expression of MC1R tended to predict a worse prognosis. This conclusion was verified in MC1R-/- mice, which showed a greater resistance to tumor growth than wild-type mice, as expected. Further investigation revealed a significant change in the portion of Tregs in MC1R-/- mice, while the portion of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells remained unchanged. The in vitro experiments revealed a weaker ability of the MC1R-/- T cells to differentiate into Tregs. Previous studies report that the functional integrity of Tregs is interwoven with cellular metabolism. Therefore, MC1R was deduced to regulate the differentiation of Tregs by reprogramming the metabolism. As expected, MC1R-/- T cells exhibited weaker mitochondrial function and a lower aerobic oxidation capacity. Concurrently, the MC1R-/- T cells had stronger limiting effects on colon cancer cells. According to these results, the MC1R inhibitor was hypothesized as a potential therapeutic agent to suppress colon cancer. The results showed that upon MC1R suppression, the tumors in the mice developed more slowly, and the mice survived longer, potentially providing a novel strategy to treat clinical colon cancer. CONCLUSION By regulating Tregs differentiation, MC1R overexpression in colon cancer correlates with poor prognosis, while MC1R inhibition shows potential as a therapeutic approach to slow tumor growth and enhance survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoliang Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreas and Spleen Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Mengjie Zou
- Department of Nephrology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Chunxing Li
- Department of Operating Room, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuntian Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreas and Spleen Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
| | - Honglin Luo
- Institute of Oncology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Dong
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreas and Spleen Surgery, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
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Benedusi M, Lee H, Lim Y, Valacchi G. Oxidative State in Cutaneous Melanoma Progression: A Question of Balance. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:1058. [PMID: 39334716 PMCID: PMC11428248 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13091058] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly bioactive molecules involved not only in tissue physiology but also in the development of different human conditions, including premature aging, cardiovascular pathologies, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. Among the different human tumors, cutaneous melanoma, the most aggressive and lethal form of skin cancer, is undoubtedly one of the most well-known "ROS-driven tumor", of which one of the main causes is represented by ultraviolet (UV) rays' exposure. Although the role of excessive ROS production in melanoma development in pro-tumorigenic cell fate is now well established, little is known about its contribution to the progression of the melanoma metastatic process. Increasing evidence suggests a dual role of ROS in melanoma progression: excessive ROS production may enhance cellular growth and promote therapeutic resistance, but at the same time, it can also have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, inducing their apoptosis. In this context, the aim of the present work was to focus on the relationship between cell redox state and the signaling pathways directly involved in the metastatic processes. In addition, oxidative or antioxidant therapeutic strategies for metastatic melanoma were also reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mascia Benedusi
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Heaji Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunsook Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Wang F, Ma W, Fan D, Hu J, An X, Wang Z. The biochemistry of melanogenesis: an insight into the function and mechanism of melanogenesis-related proteins. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1440187. [PMID: 39228912 PMCID: PMC11368874 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1440187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanin is an amino acid derivative produced by melanocyte through a series of enzymatic reactions using tyrosinase as substrate. Human skin and hair color is also closely related to melanin, so understanding the mechanisms and proteins that produce melanin is very important. There are many proteins involved in the process of melanin expression, For example, proteins involved in melanin formation such as p53, HNF-1α (Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α), SOX10 (Sry-related HMg-Box gene 10) and pax3 (paired box gene 3), MC1R(Melanocortin 1 Receptor), MITF (Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor), TYR (tyrosinase), TYRP1 (tyrosinase-related protein-1), TYRP2 (tyrosinase-related protein-2), and can be regulated by changing their content to control the production rate of melanin. Others, such as OA1 (ocular albinism type 1), Par-2 (protease-activated receptor 2) and Mlph (Melanophilin), have been found to control the transfer rate of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, and regulate the amount of human epidermal melanin to control the depth of human skin color. In addition to the above proteins, there are other protein families also involved in the process of melanin expression, such as BLOC, Rab and Rho. This article reviews the origin of melanocytes, the related proteins affecting melanin and the basic causes of related gene mutations. In addition, we also summarized the active ingredients of 5 popular whitening cosmetics and their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Wang
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Yunnan Botanee Bio-Technology Group Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Shanghai Jiyan Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Ma
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Shanghai Jiyan Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Dongjie Fan
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Shanghai Jiyan Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Hu
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Shanghai Jiyan Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohong An
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Yunnan Botanee Bio-Technology Group Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Shanghai Jiyan Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Zuding Wang
- Yunnan Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory, Yunnan Yunke Characteristic Plant Extraction Laboratory Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
- Yunnan Botanee Bio-Technology Group Co., Ltd., Kunming, China
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Kahale F, Alemi H, Naderi A, Deshpande N, Lee S, Wang S, Singh RB, Dohlman T, Yin J, Jurkunas U, Dana R. Neuropeptide alpha-Melanocyte stimulating hormone preserves corneal endothelial morphology in a murine model of Fuchs dystrophy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18842. [PMID: 39138334 PMCID: PMC11322312 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69416-1] [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: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy is a heterogenous disease with multifactorial etiology, and genetic, epigenetic, and exogenous factors contributing to its pathogenesis. DNA damage plays a significant role, with ultraviolet-A (UV-A) emerging as a key contributing factor. We investigate the potential application of neuropeptide α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in mitigating oxidative stress induced endothelial damage. First, we examined the effects of α-MSH on a cultured human corneal endothelial cell line (HCEnC-21T) exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced oxidative DNA damage. We performed immunofluorescence and flow cytometry to assess DNA damage and cell death in the cultured cells. Additionally, we used an established mouse model that utilizes ultraviolet light to induce corneal endothelial cell damage resulting in decreased CEnC number, increased cell size variability, and decreased percentage of hexagonal cells. This endothelial decompensation leads to an increase in corneal thickness. Following UV-A exposure, the mice were systemically treated with α-MSH, either immediately after exposure (early treatment) or beginning two weeks post-exposure (delayed treatment). To evaluate treatment efficacy, we analyzed CEnC density and morphology using in vivo confocal microscopy, and central corneal thickness using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Our findings demonstrated that α-MSH treatment effectively protects HCEnC-21T from free-radical induced oxidative DNA damage and subsequent cell death. In vivo, α-MSH treatment, mitigated the loss of CEnC density, deterioration of cell morphology and suppression of the resultant corneal swelling. These results underline the potential application of α-MSH as a therapeutic agent for mitigating corneal endothelial damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Kahale
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Hamid Alemi
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Amirreza Naderi
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Neha Deshpande
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Seokjoo Lee
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Shudan Wang
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Rohan Bir Singh
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Thomas Dohlman
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Jia Yin
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Ula Jurkunas
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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8
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Li Y, Li Q, Cao Z, Wu J. Multicenter proteome-wide Mendelian randomization study identifies causal plasma proteins in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Commun Biol 2024; 7:857. [PMID: 39003418 PMCID: PMC11246481 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06538-2] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
This study addresses the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in malignant melanoma (MM) and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). We aim to identify circulating proteins causally linked to MM and NMSC traits using a multicenter Mendelian randomization (MR) framework. We utilized large-scale cis-MR to estimate the impact of numerous plasma proteins on MM, NMSC, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). To ensure robustness, additional analyses like MR Steiger and Bayesian colocalization are conducted, followed by replication through meta-analytical methods. The associations between identified proteins and outcomes are also validated at the tissue level using Transcriptome-Wide Association Study methods. Furthermore, a protein-protein interaction analysis is conducted to explore the relationship between identified proteins and existing cancer medication targets. The MR analysis has identified associations of 13 plasma proteins with BCC, 2 with SCC, and 1 with MM. Specifically, ASIP and KRT5 are associated with BCC, with ASIP also potentially targeting MM. CTSS and TNFSF8 are identified as promising druggability candidates for BCC. This multidimensional approach nominates ASIP, KRT5, CTSS, and TNFSF8 as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for skin cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajia Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiangxiang Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ziqin Cao
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Jianhuang Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Cavatão FG, Pinto ÉSM, Krause MJ, Alho CS, Dorn M. Molecular Basis of MC1R Activation: Mutation-Induced Alterations in Structural Dynamics. Proteins 2024. [PMID: 38923677 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26722] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The MC1R protein is a receptor found in melanocytes that plays a role in melanin synthesis. Mutations in this protein can impact hair color, skin tone, tanning ability, and increase the risk of skin cancer. The MC1R protein is activated by the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Previous studies have shown that mutations affect the interaction between MC1R and α-MSH; however, the mechanism behind this process is poorly understood. Our study aims to shed light on this mechanism using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to analyze the Asp84Glu and Asp294His variants. We simulated both the wild-type (WT) protein and the mutants with and without ligand. Our results reveal that mutations induce unique conformations during state transitions, hindering the switch between active and inactive states and decreasing cellular levels of cAMP. Interestingly, Asp294His showed increased ligand affinity but decreased protein activity, highlighting that tighter binding does not always lead to increased activation. Our study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of MC1R mutations on protein activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Guimarães Cavatão
- Center for Biotechnology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Mathias J Krause
- Institute for Applied and Numerical Mathematics, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Clarice Sampaio Alho
- Forensic Science, National Institute of Science and Technology, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- PPG Patologia, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marcio Dorn
- Center for Biotechnology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Forensic Science, National Institute of Science and Technology, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Institute of Informatics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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10
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Ascsillán AA, Kemény LV. The Skin-Brain Axis: From UV and Pigmentation to Behaviour Modulation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6199. [PMID: 38892387 PMCID: PMC11172643 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116199] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The skin-brain axis has been suggested to play a role in several pathophysiological conditions, including opioid addiction, Parkinson's disease and many others. Recent evidence suggests that pathways regulating skin pigmentation may directly and indirectly regulate behaviour. Conversely, CNS-driven neural and hormonal responses have been demonstrated to regulate pigmentation, e.g., under stress. Additionally, due to the shared neuroectodermal origins of the melanocytes and neurons in the CNS, certain CNS diseases may be linked to pigmentation-related changes due to common regulators, e.g., MC1R variations. Furthermore, the HPA analogue of the skin connects skin pigmentation to the endocrine system, thereby allowing the skin to index possible hormonal abnormalities visibly. In this review, insight is provided into skin pigment production and neuromelanin synthesis in the brain and recent findings are summarised on how signalling pathways in the skin, with a particular focus on pigmentation, are interconnected with the central nervous system. Thus, this review may supply a better understanding of the mechanism of several skin-brain associations in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A. Ascsillán
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Translational Dermatology Research Group, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Lajos V. Kemény
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Translational Dermatology Research Group, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
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11
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Guida S, Puig S, DI Resta C, Sallustio F, Mangano E, Stabile G, Longo C, Pellacani G, Guida G, Rongioletti F. Melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R): a review for dermatologists. Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2024; 159:285-293. [PMID: 38376504 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.24.07839-3] [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: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) and its variants have a pivotal role in melanin synthesis. However, MC1R has been associated to non-pigmentary pathways related to DNA-repair activities and inflammation. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview about the role of MC1R in the skin. Specifically, after summarizing the current knowledge about MC1R structure and polymorphisms, we report data concerning the correlation between MC1R, phenotypic traits, skin aging, other diseases and skin cancers and their risk assessment through genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Guida
- Dermatology Clinic, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy -
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy -
| | - Susana Puig
- Melanoma Unit, Department of Dermatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunye, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Chiara DI Resta
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Genomic Unit for the Diagnosis of Human Pathologies, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Sallustio
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Mangano
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), National Research Center (CNR), Segrate, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Stabile
- Dermatology Clinic, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Longo
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Skin Cancer Center, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale, IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Guida
- Section of Molecular Biology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Franco Rongioletti
- Dermatology Clinic, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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12
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Berns HM, Watkins-Chow DE, Lu S, Louphrasitthiphol P, Zhang T, Brown KM, Moura-Alves P, Goding CR, Pavan WJ. Single-cell profiling of MC1R-inhibited melanocytes. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2024; 37:291-308. [PMID: 37972124 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13141] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The human red hair color (RHC) trait is caused by increased pheomelanin (red-yellow) and reduced eumelanin (black-brown) pigment in skin and hair due to diminished melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) function. In addition, individuals harboring the RHC trait are predisposed to melanoma development. While MC1R variants have been established as causative of RHC and are a well-defined risk factor for melanoma, it remains unclear mechanistically why decreased MC1R signaling alters pigmentation and increases melanoma susceptibility. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of melanocytes isolated from RHC mouse models to define a MC1R-inhibited Gene Signature (MiGS) comprising a large set of previously unidentified genes which may be implicated in melanogenesis and oncogenic transformation. We show that one of the candidate MiGS genes, TBX3, a well-known anti-senescence transcription factor implicated in melanoma progression, binds both E-box and T-box elements to regulate genes associated with melanogenesis and senescence bypass. Our results provide key insights into further mechanisms by which melanocytes with reduced MC1R signaling may regulate pigmentation and offer new candidates of study toward understanding how individuals with the RHC phenotype are predisposed to melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Matthew Berns
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Dawn E Watkins-Chow
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sizhu Lu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Pakavarin Louphrasitthiphol
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tongwu Zhang
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kevin M Brown
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Pedro Moura-Alves
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, PT, Portugal
- IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, PT, Portugal
| | - Colin R Goding
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - William J Pavan
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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13
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Binet R, Lambert JP, Tomkova M, Tischfield S, Baggiolini A, Picaud S, Sarkar S, Louphrasitthiphol P, Dias D, Carreira S, Humphrey TC, Fillipakopoulos P, White R, Goding CR. DNA damage remodels the MITF interactome to increase melanoma genomic instability. Genes Dev 2024; 38:70-94. [PMID: 38316520 PMCID: PMC10903946 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350740.123] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Since genome instability can drive cancer initiation and progression, cells have evolved highly effective and ubiquitous DNA damage response (DDR) programs. However, some cells (for example, in skin) are normally exposed to high levels of DNA-damaging agents. Whether such high-risk cells possess lineage-specific mechanisms that tailor DNA repair to the tissue remains largely unknown. Using melanoma as a model, we show here that the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF, a lineage addition oncogene that coordinates many aspects of melanocyte and melanoma biology, plays a nontranscriptional role in shaping the DDR. On exposure to DNA-damaging agents, MITF is phosphorylated at S325, and its interactome is dramatically remodeled; most transcription cofactors dissociate, and instead MITF interacts with the MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex. Consequently, cells with high MITF levels accumulate stalled replication forks and display defects in homologous recombination-mediated repair associated with impaired MRN recruitment to DNA damage. In agreement with this, high MITF levels are associated with increased single-nucleotide and copy number variant burdens in melanoma. Significantly, the SUMOylation-defective MITF-E318K melanoma predisposition mutation recapitulates the effects of DNA-PKcs-phosphorylated MITF. Our data suggest that a nontranscriptional function of a lineage-restricted transcription factor contributes to a tissue-specialized modulation of the DDR that can impact cancer initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Binet
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-Philippe Lambert
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cancer Research Center, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
- Endocrinology-Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec City, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Marketa Tomkova
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Samuel Tischfield
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Arianna Baggiolini
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Sarah Picaud
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sovan Sarkar
- Cancer Research UK, Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Pakavarin Louphrasitthiphol
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Diogo Dias
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Carreira
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy C Humphrey
- Cancer Research UK, Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Panagis Fillipakopoulos
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Richard White
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Colin R Goding
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom;
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14
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Srivastava P, Nishiyama S, Zhou F, Lin SH, Srivastava A, Su C, Xu Y, Peng W, Levy M, Schwarzschild M, Chen X. Peripheral MC1R Activation Modulates Immune Responses and is Neuroprotective in a Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2023; 18:704-717. [PMID: 38110615 PMCID: PMC10769915 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-023-10094-7] [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: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a key pigmentation gene, and loss-of-function of MC1R variants that produce red hair may be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously reported compromised dopaminergic neuron survival in Mc1r mutant mice and dopaminergic neuroprotective effects of local injection of a MC1R agonist to the brain or a systemically administered MC1R agonist with appreciable central nervous system (CNS) permeability. Beyond melanocytes and dopaminergic neurons, MC1R is expressed in other peripheral tissues and cell types, including immune cells. The present study investigates the impact of NDP-MSH, a synthetic melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist that does not cross BBB, on the immune system and the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system in mouse model of PD. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were treated systemically with MPTP.HCl (20 mg/kg) and LPS (1 mg/kg) from day 1 to day 4 and NDP-MSH (400 µg/kg) or vehicle from day 1 to day 12 following which the mice were sacrificed. Peripheral and CNS immune cells were phenotyped and inflammatory markers were measured. The nigrostriatal dopaminergic system was assessed behaviorally, chemically, immunologically, and pathologically. To understand the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in this model, CD25 monoclonal antibody was used to deplete CD25 + Tregs. RESULTS Systemic NDP-MSH administration significantly attenuated striatal dopamine depletion and nigral dopaminergic neuron loss induced by MPTP + LPS. It improved the behavioral outcomes in the pole test. Mc1r mutant mice injected with NDP-MSH in the MPTP and LPS paradigm showed no changes in striatal dopamine levels suggesting that the NDP-MSH acts through the MC1R pathway. Although no NDP-MSH was detected in the brain, peripheral, NDP-MSH attenuated neuroinflammation as observed by diminished microglial activation in the nigral region, along with reduced TNF-α and IL1β levels in the ventral midbrain. Depletion of Tregs was associated with diminished neuroprotective effects of NDP-MSH. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that peripherally acting NDP-MSH confers protection on dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and reduces hyperactivated microglia. NDP-MSH modulates peripheral immune responses, and Tregs may be involved in the neuroprotective effect of NDP-MSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Shuhei Nishiyama
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Fang Zhou
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Sonia H Lin
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Akriti Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Chienwen Su
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Yuehang Xu
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Weiyi Peng
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Levy
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Michael Schwarzschild
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Xiqun Chen
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
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15
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Chang CL, Cai Z, Hsu SYT. A gel-forming α-MSH analog promotes lasting melanogenesis. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 958:176008. [PMID: 37673364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176008] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The α-MSH peptide plays a significant role in the regulation of pigmentation via the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). It increases the DNA repair capacity of melanocytes and reduces the incidence of skin cancers. As such, α-MSH analogs could have the utility for protecting against UV-induced skin DNA damage in susceptible patients. Recently, α-MSH analogs have been approved for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria, hypoactive sexual desire, or pediatric obesity. However, the delivery of these drugs requires inconvenient implants or frequent injections. We recently found that select palmitoylated melanocortin analogs such as afamelanotide and adrenocorticotropin peptides self-assemble to form liquid gels in situ. To explore the utility of these novel analogs, we studied their pharmacological characteristics in vitro and in vivo. Acylated afamelanotide (DDE 313) and ACTH1-24 (DDE314) analogs form liquid gels at 6-20% and have a significantly increased viscosity at >2.5% compared to original analogs. Using the DDE313 analog as a prototype, we showed gel-formation reduces the passage of DDE313 through Centricon filters, and subcutaneous injection of analog gel in rats leads to the sustained presence of the peptide in circulation for >12 days. In addition, DDE313 darkened the skin of frogs for >4 weeks, whereas those injected with an equivalent dose of afamelanotide lost the tanning response within a few days. Because self-assembled gels allow sustained activation of melanocortin receptors, further studies of these analogs may allow the development of effective and convenient tanning therapies to prophylactically protect against UV-induced malignant transformation of skin cells in susceptible patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Zheqing Cai
- CL Laboratory LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, United States
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16
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Cerdido S, Sánchez-Beltrán J, Lambertos A, Abrisqueta M, Padilla L, Herraiz C, Olivares C, Jiménez-Cervantes C, García-Borrón JC. A Side-by-Side Comparison of Wildtype and Variant Melanocortin 1 Receptor Signaling with Emphasis on Protection against Oxidative Damage to DNA. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14381. [PMID: 37762683 PMCID: PMC10532403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814381] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Common variants of the MC1R gene coding the α-melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor are associated with light skin, poor tanning, blond or red hair, and increased melanoma risk, due to pigment-dependent and -independent effects. This complex phenotype is usually attributed to impaired activation of cAMP signaling. However, several MC1R variants show significant residual coupling to cAMP and efficiently activate mitogenic extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) signaling. Yet, residual signaling and the key actions of wildtype and variant MC1R have never been assessed under strictly comparable conditions in melanocytic cells of identical genetic background. We devised a strategy based on CRISPR-Cas9 knockout of endogenous MC1R in a human melanoma cell line wildtype for BRAF, NRAS and NF1, followed by reconstitution with epitope-labeled MC1R constructs, and functional analysis of clones expressing comparable levels of wildtype, R151C or D294H MC1R. The proliferation rate, shape, adhesion, motility and sensitivity to oxidative DNA damage were compared. The R151C and D294H RHC variants displayed impaired cAMP signaling, intracellular stability similar to the wildtype, triggered ERK1/2 activation as effectively as the wildtype, and afforded partial protection against oxidative DNA damage, although less efficiently than the wildtype. Therefore, common melanoma-associated MC1R variants display biased signaling and significant genoprotective activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Cerdido
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - José Sánchez-Beltrán
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Ana Lambertos
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Abrisqueta
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Lidia Padilla
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
| | - Cecilia Herraiz
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Conchi Olivares
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Celia Jiménez-Cervantes
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - José C. García-Borrón
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (S.C.); (J.S.-B.); (A.L.); (M.A.); (L.P.); (C.H.); (C.O.); (C.J.-C.)
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria IMIB-LAIB, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
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17
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Dall'Olmo L, Papa N, Surdo NC, Marigo I, Mocellin S. Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH): biology, clinical relevance and implication in melanoma. J Transl Med 2023; 21:562. [PMID: 37608347 PMCID: PMC10463388 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04405-y] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and its receptor, melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), have been proposed as potential target for anti-cancer strategies in melanoma research, due to their tissue specific expression and involvement in melanocyte homeostasis. However, their role in prevention and treatment of melanoma is still debated and controversial. Although a large body of evidence supports α-MSH in preventing melanoma development, some preclinical findings suggest that the α-MSH downstream signalling may promote immune escape and cancer resistance to therapy. Additionally, in metastatic melanoma both MC1R and α-MSH have been reported to be overexpressed at levels much higher than normal cells. Furthermore, targeted therapy (e.g. BRAF inhibition in BRAFV600E mutant tumours) has been shown to enhance this phenomenon. Collectively, these data suggest that targeting MC1R could serve as an approach in the treatment of metastatic melanoma. In this review, we explore the molecular biology of α-MSH with particular emphasis into its tumor-related properties, whilst elaborating the experimental evidence currently available regarding the interplay between α-MSH/MC1R axis, melanoma and antitumor strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Dall'Olmo
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy.
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy.
| | - Nicole Papa
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Concetta Surdo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 35121, Padua, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine VIMM, Foundation for Advanced Biomedical Research, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Ilaria Marigo
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
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18
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Sunder-Plassmann R, Geusau A, Endler G, Weninger W, Wielscher M. Identification of Genetic Risk Factors for Keratinocyte Cancer in Immunosuppressed Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Case-Control Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3354. [PMID: 37444464 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133354] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of long-term immunosuppression, solid organ transplant recipients are at increased risk for keratinocyte cancer. We matched solid organ transplant patients (n = 150), cases with keratinocyte cancers and tumor-free controls, considering the most important risk factors for keratinocyte cancer in solid organ transplant recipients. Using whole exome data of germline DNA from this patient cohort, we identified several genetic loci associated with the occurrence of multiple keratinocyte cancers. We found one genome-wide significant association of a common single nucleotide polymorphism located in EXOC3 (rs72698504). In addition, we found several variants with a p-value of less than 10-5 associated with the number of keratinocyte cancers. These variants were located in the genes CYB561, WASHC1, PITRM1-AS1, MUC8, ABI3BP, and THBS2-AS1. Using whole exome sequencing data, we performed groupwise tests for rare missense variants in our dataset and found robust associations (p < 10-6, Burden Zeggini test) between MC1R, EPHA8, EPO, MYCT1, ADGRG3, and MGME1 and keratinocyte cancer. Thus, overall, we detected genes involved in pigmentation/UV protection, tumor suppression, immunomodulation, intracellular traffic, and response to UV as genetic risk factors for multiple keratinocyte cancers in solid organ transplant recipients. We also grouped selected genes to pathways and found a selection of genes involved in the "cellular response to UV" to be significantly associated with multiple keratinocyte cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandra Geusau
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Endler
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weninger
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Wielscher
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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19
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Srivastava P, Nishiyama S, Lin SH, Srivastava A, Su C, Peng W, Levy M, Schwarzschild M, Xu Y, Chen X. Peripheral MC1R activation modulates immune responses and is neuroprotective in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3042571. [PMID: 37398302 PMCID: PMC10312952 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3042571/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a key pigmentation gene, and loss-of-function of MC1R variants that produce red hair may be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously reported compromised dopaminergic neuron survival in Mc1r mutant mice and dopaminergic neuroprotective effects of local injection of a MC1R agonist to the brain or a systemically administered MC1R agonist with appreciable CNS permeability. Beyond melanocytes and dopaminergic neurons, MC1R is expressed in other peripheral tissues and cell types, including immune cells. The present study investigates the impact of NDP-MSH, a synthetic melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist that does not cross BBB, on the immune system and the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system in mouse model of PD. Methods C57BL/6 mice were treated systemically with MPTP.HCl (20 mg/kg) and LPS (1 mg/kg) from day 1 to day 4 and NDP-MSH (400 μg/kg) or vehicle from day 1 to day 12 following which the mice were sacrificed. Peripheral and CNS immune cells were phenotyped and inflammatory markers were measured. The nigrostriatal dopaminergic system was assessed behaviorally, chemically, immunologically, and pathologically. To understand the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in this model, CD25 monoclonal antibody was used to deplete CD25+ Tregs. Results Systemic NDP-MSH administration significantly attenuated striatal dopamine depletion and nigral dopaminergic neuron loss induced by MPTP+LPS. It improved the behavioral outcomes in the pole test. Mc1r mutant mice injected with NDP-MSH in the MPTP and LPS paradigm showed no changes in striatal dopamine levels suggesting that the NDP-MSH acts through the MC1R pathway. Although no NDP-MSH was detected in the brain, peripheral, NDP-MSH attenuated neuroinflammation as observed by diminished microglial activation in the nigral region, along with reduced TNF-α and IL1β levels in the ventral midbrain. Depletion of Tregs limited the neuroprotective effects of NDP-MSH. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that peripherally acting NDP-MSH confers protection on dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and reduces hyperactivated microglia. NDP-MSH modulates peripheral immune responses, and Tregs may be involved in the neuroprotective effect of NDP-MSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Shuhei Nishiyama
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Sonia H Lin
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Akriti Srivastava
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Chienwen Su
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Weiyi Peng
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston
| | - Michael Levy
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Michael Schwarzschild
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Yuehang Xu
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | - Xiqun Chen
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
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20
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Wu CLS, Cioanca AV, Gelmi MC, Wen L, Di Girolamo N, Zhu L, Natoli R, Conway RM, Petsoglou C, Jager MJ, McCluskey PJ, Madigan MC. The multifunctional human ocular melanocortin system. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 95:101187. [PMID: 37217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Immune privilege in the eye involves physical barriers, immune regulation and secreted proteins that together limit the damaging effects of intraocular immune responses and inflammation. The neuropeptide alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) normally circulates in the aqueous humour of the anterior chamber and the vitreous fluid, secreted by iris and ciliary epithelium, and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). α-MSH plays an important role in maintaining ocular immune privilege by helping the development of suppressor immune cells and by activating regulatory T-cells. α-MSH functions by binding to and activating melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R) and receptor accessory proteins (MRAPs) that work in concert with antagonists, otherwise known as the melanocortin system. As well as controlling immune responses and inflammation, a broad range of biological functions is increasingly recognised to be orchestrated by the melanocortin system within ocular tissues. This includes maintaining corneal transparency and immune privilege by limiting corneal (lymph)angiogenesis, sustaining corneal epithelial integrity, protecting corneal endothelium and potentially enhancing corneal graft survival, regulating aqueous tear secretion with implications for dry eye disease, facilitating retinal homeostasis via maintaining blood-retinal barriers, providing neuroprotection in the retina, and controlling abnormal new vessel growth in the choroid and retina. The role of melanocortin signalling in uveal melanocyte melanogenesis however remains unclear compared to its established role in skin melanogenesis. The early application of a melanocortin agonist to downregulate systemic inflammation used adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-based repository cortisone injection (RCI), but adverse side effects including hypertension, edema, and weight gain, related to increased adrenal gland corticosteroid production, impacted clinical uptake. Compared to ACTH, melanocortin peptides that target MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and/or MC5R, but not adrenal gland MC2R, induce minimal corticosteroid production with fewer amdverse systemic effects. Pharmacological advances in synthesising MCR-specific targeted peptides provide further opportunities for treating ocular (and systemic) inflammatory diseases. Following from these observations and a renewed clinical and pharmacological interest in the diverse biological roles of the melanocortin system, this review highlights the physiological and disease-related involvement of this system within human eye tissues. We also review the emerging benefits and versatility of melanocortin receptor targeted peptides as non-steroidal alternatives for inflammatory eye diseases such as non-infectious uveitis and dry eye disease, and translational applications in promoting ocular homeostasis, for example, in corneal transplantation and diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Lin Stanley Wu
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Adrian V Cioanca
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - Maria C Gelmi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Li Wen
- New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Riccardo Natoli
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - R Max Conway
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Constantinos Petsoglou
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Martine J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J McCluskey
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michele C Madigan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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21
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Zhang J, Xing Y, Li F, Mu J, Liu T, Ge J, Zhao M, Liu L, Gong D, Geng T. Study on the Mechanism of MC5R Participating in Energy Metabolism of Goose Liver. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108648. [PMID: 37239994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108648] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrition and energy levels have an important impact on animal growth, production performance, disease occurrence and health recovery. Previous studies indicate that melanocortin 5 receptor (MC5R) is mainly involved in the regulations of exocrine gland function, lipid metabolism and immune response in animals. However, it is not clear how MC5R participates in the nutrition and energy metabolism of animals. To address this, the widely used animal models, including the overfeeding model and the fasting/refeeding model, could provide an effective tool. In this study, the expression of MC5R in goose liver was first determined in these models. Goose primary hepatocytes were then treated with nutrition/energy metabolism-related factors (glucose, oleic acid and thyroxine), which is followed by determination of MC5R gene expression. Moreover, MC5R was overexpressed in goose primary hepatocytes, followed by identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways subjected to MC5R regulation by transcriptome analysis. At last, some of the genes potentially regulated by MC5R were also identified in the in vivo and in vitro models, and were used to predict possible regulatory networks with PPI (protein-protein interaction networks) program. The data showed that both overfeeding and refeeding inhibited the expression of MC5R in goose liver, while fasting induced the expression of MC5R. Glucose and oleic acid could induce the expression of MC5R in goose primary hepatocytes, whereas thyroxine could inhibit it. The overexpression of MC5R significantly affected the expression of 1381 genes, and the pathways enriched with the DEGs mainly include oxidative phosphorylation, focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction, glutathione metabolism and MAPK signaling pathway. Interestingly, some pathways are related to glycolipid metabolism, including oxidative phosphorylation, pyruvate metabolism, citrate cycle, etc. Using the in vivo and in vitro models, it was demonstrated that the expression of some DEGs, including ACSL1, PSPH, HMGCS1, CPT1A, PACSIN2, IGFBP3, NMRK1, GYS2, ECI2, NDRG1, CDK9, FBXO25, SLC25A25, USP25 and AHCY, was associated with the expression of MC5R, suggesting these genes may mediate the biological role of MC5R in these models. In addition, PPI analysis suggests that the selected downstream genes, including GYS2, ECI2, PSPH, CPT1A, ACSL1, HMGCS1, USP25 and NDRG1, participate in the protein-protein interaction network regulated by MC5R. In conclusion, MC5R may mediate the biological effects caused by changes in nutrition and energy levels in goose hepatocytes through multiple pathways, including glycolipid-metabolism-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinqi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ya Xing
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Fangbo Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ji'an Mu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Tongjun Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jing Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Minmeng Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Long Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Daoqing Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Tuoyu Geng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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22
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Binet R, Lambert JP, Tomkova M, Tischfield S, Baggiolini A, Picaud S, Sarkar S, Louphrasitthiphol P, Dias D, Carreira S, Humphrey T, Fillipakopoulos P, White R, Goding CR. DNA damage-induced interaction between a lineage addiction oncogenic transcription factor and the MRN complex shapes a tissue-specific DNA Damage Response and cancer predisposition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.21.537819. [PMID: 37131595 PMCID: PMC10153263 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.21.537819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Since genome instability can drive cancer initiation and progression, cells have evolved highly effective and ubiquitous DNA Damage Response (DDR) programs. However, some cells, in skin for example, are normally exposed to high levels of DNA damaging agents. Whether such high-risk cells possess lineage-specific mechanisms that tailor DNA repair to the tissue remains largely unknown. Here we show, using melanoma as a model, that the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF, a lineage addition oncogene that coordinates many aspects of melanocyte and melanoma biology, plays a non-transcriptional role in shaping the DDR. On exposure to DNA damaging agents, MITF is phosphorylated by ATM/DNA-PKcs, and unexpectedly its interactome is dramatically remodelled; most transcription (co)factors dissociate, and instead MITF interacts with the MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex. Consequently, cells with high MITF levels accumulate stalled replication forks, and display defects in homologous recombination-mediated repair associated with impaired MRN recruitment to DNA damage. In agreement, high MITF levels are associated with increased SNV burden in melanoma. Significantly, the SUMOylation-defective MITF-E318K melanoma predisposition mutation recapitulates the effects of ATM/DNA-PKcs-phosphorylated MITF. Our data suggest that a non-transcriptional function of a lineage-restricted transcription factor contributes to a tissue-specialised modulation of the DDR that can impact cancer initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Binet
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Jean-Philippe Lambert
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cancer Research Center and Big Data Research Center, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada; Endocrinology – Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec – Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC, Canada, G1V 4G2
| | - Marketa Tomkova
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, USA
| | - Samuel Tischfield
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Arianna Baggiolini
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sarah Picaud
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Sovan Sarkar
- CRUK MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Pakavarin Louphrasitthiphol
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Diogo Dias
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Suzanne Carreira
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Timothy Humphrey
- CRUK MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Panagis Fillipakopoulos
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Richard White
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Colin R Goding
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
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23
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Xie B, Zhu Y, Shen Y, Xu W, Song X. Treatment update for vitiligo based on autoimmune inhibition and melanocyte protection. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:189-206. [PMID: 36947026 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2193329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The treatment of vitiligo remains challenging due to the complexity of its pathogenesis, influenced by genetic factors, oxidative stress and abnormal cell adhesion that collectively impact melanocyte survival and trigger immune system attacks, resulting in melanocyte death. Melanocytes in vitiligo are believed to exhibit genetic susceptibility and defects in cellular mechanisms, such as defects in autophagy, that reduce their ability to resist oxidative stress, leading to increased expression of the pro-inflammatory protein HSP70. The low expression of adhesion molecules, such as DDR1 and E-cadherin, accelerates melanocyte damage and antigen exposure. Consequently, autoimmune attacks centered on IFN-γ-CXCR9/10-CXCR3-CD8+ T cells are initiated, causing vitiligo. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the latest knowledge on the pathogenesis of vitiligo and potential therapeutic targets from the perspective of suppressing autoimmune attacks and activating melanocytes functions. EXPERT OPINION Vitiligo is one of the most challenging dermatological diseases due to its complex pathogenesis with diverse therapeutic targets. Immune suppression, such as corticosteroids and emerging JAK inhibitors, has proven effective in disease progression. However, during the early stages of the disease, it is also important to optimize therapeutic strategies to activate melanocytes for alleviating oxidative stress and improving treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Xie
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqi Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University; Binwen Rd 548, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University; Binwen Rd 548, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Yuhangtang Rd 866, Hangzhou, 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuzu Song
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
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24
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Berns HM, Watkins-Chow DE, Lu S, Louphrasitthiphol P, Zhang T, Brown KM, Moura-Alves P, Goding CR, Pavan WJ. Loss of MC1R signaling implicates TBX3 in pheomelanogenesis and melanoma predisposition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.10.532018. [PMID: 37090624 PMCID: PMC10120706 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.10.532018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
The human Red Hair Color (RHC) trait is caused by increased pheomelanin (red-yellow) and reduced eumelanin (black-brown) pigment in skin and hair due to diminished melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) function. In addition, individuals harboring the RHC trait are predisposed to melanoma development. While MC1R variants have been established as causative of RHC and are a well-defined risk factor for melanoma, it remains unclear mechanistically why decreased MC1R signaling alters pigmentation and increases melanoma susceptibility. Here, we use single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) of melanocytes isolated from RHC mouse models to reveal a Pheomelanin Gene Signature (PGS) comprising genes implicated in melanogenesis and oncogenic transformation. We show that TBX3, a well-known anti-senescence transcription factor implicated in melanoma progression, is part of the PGS and binds both E-box and T-box elements to regulate genes associated with melanogenesis and senescence bypass. Our results provide key insights into mechanisms by which MC1R signaling regulates pigmentation and how individuals with the RHC phenotype are predisposed to melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Matthew Berns
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Dawn E. Watkins-Chow
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Sizhu Lu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Pakavarin Louphrasitthiphol
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tongwu Zhang
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, 13 USA
| | - Kevin M. Brown
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, 13 USA
| | - Pedro Moura-Alves
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, PT
- IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, PT
| | - Colin R. Goding
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - William J. Pavan
- Genetic Disease Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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25
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Kim NH, Lee AY. Growth Factors Upregulated by Uric Acid Affect Guanine Deaminase-Induced Melanogenesis. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2023; 31:89-96. [PMID: 36549672 PMCID: PMC9810452 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2022.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uric acid produced by guanine deaminase (GDA) is involved in photoaging and hyperpigmentation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by uric acid plays a role in photoaging. However, the mechanism by which uric acid stimulates melanogenesis in GDA-overexpressing keratinocytes is unclear. Keratinocyte-derived paracrine factors have been identified as important mechanisms of ultraviolet-induced melanogenesis. Therefore, the role of paracrine melanogenic growth factors in GDA-induced hypermelanosis mediated by uric acid was examined. The relationships between ROS and these growth factors were examined. Primary cultured normal keratinocytes overexpressed with wild type or mutant GDA and those treated with xanthine or uric acid in the presence or absence of allopurinol, H2O2, or N-acetylcysteine (NAC) were used in this study. Intracellular and extracellular bFGF and SCF levels were increased in keratinocytes by wild type, but not by loss-of-function mutants of GDA overexpression. Culture supernatants from GDA-overexpressing keratinocytes stimulated melanogenesis, which was restored by anti-bFGF and anti-SCF antibodies. Allopurinol treatment reduced the expression levels of bFGF and SCF in both GDA-overexpressing and normal keratinocytes exposed to exogenous xanthine; the exogenous uric acid increased their expression levels. H2O2-stimulated tyrosinase expression and melanogenesis were restored by NAC pretreatment. However, H2O2 or NAC did not upregulate or downregulate bFGF or SCF, respectively. Overall, uric acid could be involved in melanogenesis induced by GDA overexpression in keratinocytes via bFGF and SCF upregulation not via ROS generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan-Hyung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Ai-Young Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author E-mail: , Tel: +82-31-961-7250, Fax: +82-31-961-7695
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Melanogenesis and the Targeted Therapy of Melanoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121874. [PMID: 36551302 PMCID: PMC9775438 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigment production is a unique character of melanocytes. Numerous factors are linked with melanin production, including genetics, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and inflammation. Understanding the mechanism of melanogenesis is crucial to identify new preventive and therapeutic strategies in the treatment of melanoma. Here, we reviewed the current available literatures on the mechanisms of melanogenesis, including the signaling pathways of UVR-induced pigment production, MC1R's central determinant roles and MITF as a master transcriptional regulator in melanogenesis. Moreover, we further highlighted the role of targeting BRAF, NRAS and MC1R in melanoma prevention and treatment. The combination therapeutics of immunotherapy and targeted kinase inhibitors are becoming the newest therapeutic option in advanced melanoma.
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Liang Z, Sun R, Tu P, Liang Y, Liang L, Liu F, Bian Y, Yin G, Zhao F, Jiang M, Gu J, Tang D. Immune-related gene-based prognostic index for predicting survival and immunotherapy outcomes in colorectal carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:944286. [PMID: 36591255 PMCID: PMC9795839 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.944286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Colorectal cancer shows high incidence and mortality rates. Immune checkpoint blockade can be used to treat colorectal carcinoma (CRC); however, it shows limited effectiveness in most patients. Methods To identify patients who may benefit from immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors, we constructed an immune-related gene prognostic index (IRGPI) for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with CRC. Transcriptome datasets and clinical information of patients with CRC were used to identify differential immune-related genes between tumor and para-carcinoma tissue. Using weighted correlation network analysis and Cox regression analysis, the IRGPI was constructed, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate its predictive ability. We also analyzed the molecular and immune characteristics between IRGPI high-and low-risk subgroups, performed sensitivity analysis of ICI treatment, and constructed overall survival-related receiver operating characteristic curves to validate the IRGPI. Finally, IRGPI genes and tumor immune cell infiltration in CRC model mice with orthotopic metastases were analyzed to verify the results. Results The IRGPI was constructed based on the following 11 hub genes: ADIPOQ, CD36, CCL24, INHBE, UCN, IL1RL2, TRIM58, RBCK1, MC1R, PPARGC1A, and LGALS2. Patients with CRC in the high-risk subgroup showed longer overall survival than those in the low-risk subgroup, which was confirmed by GEO database. Clinicopathological features associated with cancer progression significantly differed between the high- and low-risk subgroups. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis of immune infiltration showed that the increased infiltration of naïve B cells, macrophages M1, and regulatory T cells and reduced infiltration of resting dendritic cells and mast cells led to a worse overall survival in patients with CRC. The ORC curves revealed that IRGPI predicted patient survival more sensitive than the published tumor immune dysfunction and rejection and tumor inflammatory signature. Discussion Thus, the low-risk subgroup is more likely to benefit from ICIs than the high-risk subgroup. CRC model mice showed higher proportions of Tregs, M1 macrophages, M2 macrophages and lower proportions of B cells, memory B cell immune cell infiltration, which is consistent with the IRGPI results. The IRGPI can predict the prognosis of patients with CRC, reflect the CRC immune microenvironment, and distinguish patients who are likely to benefit from ICI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongqing Liang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruolan Sun
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pengcheng Tu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Liang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Liang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fuyan Liu
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Bian
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,Laboratory Animal Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Yin
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Zhao
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingchen Jiang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Junfei Gu
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Decai Tang, ; Junfei Gu,
| | - Decai Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Decai Tang, ; Junfei Gu,
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Fernandes S, Vyas C, Lim P, Pereira RF, Virós A, Bártolo P. 3D Bioprinting: An Enabling Technology to Understand Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143535. [PMID: 35884596 PMCID: PMC9318274 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a potentially fatal cancer with rising incidence over the last 50 years, associated with enhanced sun exposure and ultraviolet radiation. Its incidence is highest in people of European descent and the ageing population. There are multiple clinical and epidemiological variables affecting melanoma incidence and mortality, such as sex, ethnicity, UV exposure, anatomic site, and age. Although survival has improved in recent years due to advances in targeted and immunotherapies, new understanding of melanoma biology and disease progression is vital to improving clinical outcomes. Efforts to develop three-dimensional human skin equivalent models using biofabrication techniques, such as bioprinting, promise to deliver a better understanding of the complexity of melanoma and associated risk factors. These 3D skin models can be used as a platform for patient specific models and testing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Fernandes
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (S.F.); (C.V.); (P.L.)
| | - Cian Vyas
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (S.F.); (C.V.); (P.L.)
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Peggy Lim
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (S.F.); (C.V.); (P.L.)
| | - Rúben F. Pereira
- ICBAS—Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Amaya Virós
- Skin Cancer and Ageing Laboratory, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Paulo Bártolo
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (S.F.); (C.V.); (P.L.)
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Correspondence: or
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Liu C, Liu D, Wang F, Xie J, Liu Y, Wang H, Rong J, Xie J, Wang J, Zeng R, Zhou F, Xie Y. An Intratumor Heterogeneity-Related Signature for Predicting Prognosis, Immune Landscape, and Chemotherapy Response in Colon Adenocarcinoma. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:925661. [PMID: 35872794 PMCID: PMC9302538 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.925661] [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: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a frequent malignancy of the digestive system with a poor prognosis and high mortality rate worldwide. Intratumor heterogeneity (ITH) is associated with tumor progression, poor prognosis, immunosuppression, and therapy resistance. However, the relationship between ITH and prognosis, the immune microenvironment, and the chemotherapy response in COAD patients remains unknown, and this knowledge is urgently needed. Methods We obtained clinical information and gene expression data for COAD patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The DEPTH2 algorithm was utilized to evaluate the ITH score. X-tile software was used to determine the optimal cutoff value of the ITH score. The COAD patients were divided into high- and low-ITH groups based on the cutoff value. We analyzed prognosis, tumor mutation burden (TMB), gene mutations, and immune checkpoint expression between the high- and low-ITH groups. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the high- and low-ITH groups were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. We performed univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses to screen the prognosis-related genes for the construction of an ITH-related prognostic signature. The nomogram was used to predict the overall survival (OS) of COAD patients. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by using the GeneMANIA database. Principal component analysis (PCA) and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) were employed to explore the differences in biological pathway activation status between the high- and low-risk groups. The proportion and type of tumor-infiltrating immune cells were evaluated by the CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms. Additionally, we assessed the chemotherapy response and predicted small-molecule drugs for treatment. Finally, the expression of the prognosis-related genes was validated by using the UALCAN database and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. Results The OS of the high-ITH group was worse than that of the low-ITH group. A positive correlation between ITH and TMB was identified. In subgroups stratified by age, gender, and tumor stage, the OS of the low-ITH group remained better than that of the high-ITH group. There were dramatic differences in the mutated genes, single nucleotide variant classes, variant types, immune checkpoints and cooccurring and mutually exclusive mutations of the DEGs between the high- and low-ITH groups. Based on the DEGs between the high- and low-ITH groups, we constructed a five-gene signature consisting of CEACAM5, ENO2, GABBR1, MC1R, and SLC44A4. The COAD patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups according to the median risk score. The OS of the high-risk group was worse than that of the low-risk group. The nomogram was used to accurately predict the 1-, 3- and 5-year OS of COAD patients and showed good calibration and moderate discrimination ability. The stromal score, immune score, and ESTIMATE score of the high-risk group were significantly higher than those of the low-risk group, whereas tumor purity showed the opposite trend. The patients classified by the risk score had distinguishable sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. Finally, two public databases confirmed that CEACAM5 and SLC44A4 were upregulated in normal tissues compared with COAD tissues, and ENO2, GABBR1, and MC1R were upregulated in COAD tissues compared with normal tissues. Conclusion Overall, we identified an ITH-related prognostic signature for COAD that was closely related to the tumor microenvironment and chemotherapy response. This signature may help clinicians make more personalized and precise treatment decisions for COAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Dingwei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Fangfei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jianfang Rong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jinliang Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jinyun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
| | - Yong Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Gastroenterology Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Xie
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Bacon EK, Donnelly CG, Bellone RR, Finno CJ, Velie BD. Melanocortin‐1 receptor influence in equine opioid sensitivity. EQUINE VET EDUC 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elouise K. Bacon
- Equine Genetics and Genomics Group School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Callum G. Donnelly
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction School of Veterinary Medicine University of California Davis California USA
| | - Rebecca R. Bellone
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction School of Veterinary Medicine University of California Davis California USA
- Veterinary Genetics Laboratory School of Veterinary Medicine University of California Davis California USA
| | - Carrie J. Finno
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction School of Veterinary Medicine University of California Davis California USA
| | - Brandon D. Velie
- Equine Genetics and Genomics Group School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
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Ji RL, Tao YX. Melanocortin-1 receptor mutations and pigmentation: Insights from large animals. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 189:179-213. [PMID: 35595349 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) is a G protein-coupled receptor expressed in cutaneous and hair follicle melanocytes, and plays a central role in coat color determination in vertebrates. Numerous MC1R variants have been identified in diverse species. Some of these variants have been associated with specific hair and skin color phenotypes in humans as well as coat color in animals. Gain-of-function mutations of the MC1R gene cause dominant or partially dominant black/dark coat color, and loss-of-function mutations of the MC1R gene cause recessive or partially recessive red/yellow/pale coat color phenotypes. These have been well documented in a large number of mammals, including human, dog, cattle, horse, sheep, pig, and fox. Higher similarities between large mammals and humans makes them better models to understand pathogenesis of human diseases caused by MC1R mutations. High identities in MC1Rs and similar variants identified in both humans and large mammals also provide an opportunity for receptor structure and function study. In this review, we aim to summarize the naturally occurring mutations of MC1R in humans and large animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Lei Ji
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.
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Targeting GPCRs and Their Signaling as a Therapeutic Option in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030706. [PMID: 35158973 PMCID: PMC8833576 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sixteen G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been involved in melanogenesis or melanomagenesis. Here, we review these GPCRs, their associated signaling, and therapies. Abstract G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) serve prominent roles in melanocyte lineage physiology, with an impact at all stages of development, as well as on mature melanocyte functions. GPCR ligands are present in the skin and regulate melanocyte homeostasis, including pigmentation. The role of GPCRs in the regulation of pigmentation and, consequently, protection against external aggression, such as ultraviolet radiation, has long been established. However, evidence of new functions of GPCRs directly in melanomagenesis has been highlighted in recent years. GPCRs are coupled, through their intracellular domains, to heterotrimeric G-proteins, which induce cellular signaling through various pathways. Such signaling modulates numerous essential cellular processes that occur during melanomagenesis, including proliferation and migration. GPCR-associated signaling in melanoma can be activated by the binding of paracrine factors to their receptors or directly by activating mutations. In this review, we present melanoma-associated alterations of GPCRs and their downstream signaling and discuss the various preclinical models used to evaluate new therapeutic approaches against GPCR activity in melanoma. Recent striking advances in our understanding of the structure, function, and regulation of GPCRs will undoubtedly broaden melanoma treatment options in the future.
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