1
|
Duan XP, Zhang CB, Wang WH, Lin DH. Role of calcineurin in regulating renal potassium (K +) excretion: Mechanisms of calcineurin inhibitor-induced hyperkalemia. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14189. [PMID: 38860527 PMCID: PMC11250626 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14189] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Calcineurin, protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B) or protein phosphatase 3 (PP3), is a calcium-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase. Calcineurin is widely expressed in the kidney and regulates renal Na+ and K+ transport. In the thick ascending limb, calcineurin plays a role in inhibiting NKCC2 function by promoting the dephosphorylation of the cotransporter and an intracellular sorting receptor, called sorting-related-receptor-with-A-type repeats (SORLA), is involved in modulating the effect of calcineurin on NKCC2. Calcineurin also participates in regulating thiazide-sensitive NaCl-cotransporter (NCC) in the distal convoluted tubule. The mechanisms by which calcineurin regulates NCC include directly dephosphorylation of NCC, regulating Kelch-like-3/CUL3 E3 ubiquitin-ligase complex, which is responsible for WNK (with-no-lysin-kinases) ubiquitination, and inhibiting Kir4.1/Kir5.1, which determines NCC expression/activity. Finally, calcineurin is also involved in regulating ROMK (Kir1.1) channels in the cortical collecting duct and Cyp11 2 expression in adrenal zona glomerulosa. In summary, calcineurin is involved in the regulation of NKCC2, NCC, and inwardly rectifying K+ channels in the kidney, and it also plays a role in modulating aldosterone synthesis in adrenal gland, which regulates epithelial-Na+-channel expression/activity. Thus, application of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) is expected to abrupt calcineurin-mediated regulation of transepithelial Na+ and K+ transport in the kidney. Consequently, CNIs cause hypertension, compromise renal K+ excretion, and induce hyperkalemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Peng Duan
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Biao Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Wen-Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Dao-Hong Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yu Y, Li X, Hou Y, Wei M, Qian Y, Zhou Y, Yin M, Jiang Y, Song P. The effect of Ca 2+-calcineurin signaling pathway on the antifungal activity of Pd-D-V against Botrytis cinerea. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 203:106007. [PMID: 39084802 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.106007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea is an intractable fungal disease that causes extensive damage to agricultural products. In the search for novel antifungal active ingredients, we discovered a linear pyranocoumarin Pd-D-V was effective against B. cinerea in both in vitro and in vivo assays. Furthermore, this study investigated the effects of Ca2+ and the Ca2+-calcineurin signaling pathway on its antifungal activity against B. cinerea. The results indicated that Pd-D-V reduced the concentration of Ca2+ in the mycelia of B. cinerea; CaCl2, the Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil, or the calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporin A could affect the sensitivity of Pd-D-V against B. cinerea; the expression of genes (Bccch1, Bcmid1, BccnA, Bccnb1, Bcpmc1, and Bcpmr1) of the Ca2+-calcineurin signaling pathway decreased after Pd-D-V treatment. In summary, Pd-D-V is compound for developing fungicides against B. cinerea. Pd-D-V can reduce intracellular Ca2+ concentration and disturb Ca2+ homeostasis. The Ca2+-calcineurin signaling pathway is important in the antifungal activity of Pd-D-V against B. cinerea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xinru Li
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yiping Hou
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Min Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yiyun Qian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yuxin Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Min Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yanqin Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Pingping Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Thiankhaw K, Chattipakorn N, Chattipakorn SC. How calcineurin inhibitors affect cognition. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14161. [PMID: 38747643 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14161] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
AIMS With a focus on the discrepancy between preclinical and clinical findings, this review will gather comprehensive information about the effects of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) on cognitive function and related brain pathology from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. We also summarize the potential mechanisms that underlie the pathways related to CNI-induced cognitive impairment. METHODS We systematically searched articles in PubMed using keywords 'calcineurin inhibitor*' and 'cognition' to identify related articles, which the final list pertaining to underlying mechanisms of CNI on cognition. RESULTS Several studies have reported an association between calcineurin and the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD is the most common neurocognitive disorder associated with amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, leading to cognitive impairment. CNI, including tacrolimus and cyclosporin A, are commonly prescribed for patients with transplantation of solid organs such as kidney, liver, or heart, those drugs are currently being used as long-term immunosuppressive therapy. Although preclinical models emphasize the favorable effects of CNI on the restoration of brain pathology due to the impacts of calcineurin on the alleviation of amyloid-beta deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation, or rescuing synaptic and mitochondrial functions, treatment-related neurotoxicity, resulting in cognitive dysfunctions has been observed in clinical settings of patients who received CNI. CONCLUSION Inconsistent results of CNI on cognition from clinical studies have been observed due to impairment of the blood-brain barrier, neuroinflammation mediated by reactive oxygen species, and alteration in mitochondrial fission, and extended research is required to confirm its promising use in cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kitti Thiankhaw
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siripron C Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fonódi M, Nagy L, Boratkó A. Role of Protein Phosphatases in Tumor Angiogenesis: Assessing PP1, PP2A, PP2B and PTPs Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6868. [PMID: 38999976 PMCID: PMC11241275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136868] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels to support tumor growth and metastasis, is a complex process regulated by a multitude of signaling pathways. Dysregulation of signaling pathways involving protein kinases has been extensively studied, but the role of protein phosphatases in angiogenesis within the tumor microenvironment remains less explored. However, among angiogenic pathways, protein phosphatases play critical roles in modulating signaling cascades. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the involvement of protein phosphatases in tumor angiogenesis, highlighting their diverse functions and mechanisms of action. Protein phosphatases are key regulators of cellular signaling pathways by catalyzing the dephosphorylation of proteins, thereby modulating their activity and function. This review aims to assess the activity of the protein tyrosine phosphatases and serine/threonine phosphatases. These phosphatases exert their effects on angiogenic signaling pathways through various mechanisms, including direct dephosphorylation of angiogenic receptors and downstream signaling molecules. Moreover, protein phosphatases also crosstalk with other signaling pathways involved in angiogenesis, further emphasizing their significance in regulating tumor vascularization, including endothelial cell survival, sprouting, and vessel maturation. In conclusion, this review underscores the pivotal role of protein phosphatases in tumor angiogenesis and accentuate their potential as therapeutic targets for anti-angiogenic therapy in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anita Boratkó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (M.F.); (L.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Qu Y, Wang S, Jiang H, Wang Q, Liao Y, Qiu X, Tan L, Song C, Ding C, Sun Y, Yang Z. The Ca 2+-dependent phosphatase calcineurin dephosphorylates TBK1 to suppress antiviral innate immunity. J Virol 2024; 98:e0001624. [PMID: 38563732 PMCID: PMC11092360 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00016-24] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor family member-associated NF-κB activator-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) plays a key role in the induction of the type 1 interferon (IFN-I) response, which is an important component of innate antiviral defense. Viruses target calcium (Ca2+) signaling networks, which participate in the regulation of the viral life cycle, as well as mediate the host antiviral response. Although many studies have focused on the role of Ca2+ signaling in the regulation of IFN-I, the relationship between Ca2+ and TBK1 in different infection models requires further elucidation. Here, we examined the effects of the Newcastle disease virus (NDV)-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels on the suppression of host antiviral responses. We demonstrated that intracellular Ca2+ increased significantly during NDV infection, leading to impaired IFN-I production and antiviral immunity through the activation of calcineurin (CaN). Depletion of Ca²+ was found to lead to a significant increase in virus-induced IFN-I production resulting in the inhibition of viral replication. Mechanistically, the accumulation of Ca2+ in response to viral infection increases the phosphatase activity of CaN, which in turn dephosphorylates and inactivates TBK1 in a Ca2+-dependent manner. Furthermore, the inhibition of CaN on viral replication was counteracted in TBK1 knockout cells. Together, our data demonstrate that NDV hijacks Ca2+ signaling networks to negatively regulate innate immunity via the CaN-TBK1 signaling axis. Thus, our findings not only identify the mechanism by which viruses exploit Ca2+ signaling to evade the host antiviral response but also, more importantly, highlight the potential role of Ca2+ homeostasis in the viral innate immune response.IMPORTANCEViral infections disrupt intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, which affects the regulation of various host processes to create conditions that are conducive for their own proliferation, including the host immune response. The mechanism by which viruses trigger TBK1 activation and IFN-I induction through viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns has been well defined. However, the effects of virus-mediated Ca2+ imbalance on the IFN-I pathway requires further elucidation, especially with respect to TBK1 activation. Herein, we report that NDV infection causes an increase in intracellular free Ca2+ that leads to activation of the serine/threonine phosphatase CaN, which subsequently dephosphorylates TBK1 and negatively regulates IFN-I production. Furthermore, depletion of Ca2+ or inhibition of CaN activity exerts antiviral effects by promoting the production of IFN-I and inhibiting viral replication. Thus, our results reveal the potential role of Ca2+ in the innate immune response to viruses and provide a theoretical reference for the treatment of viral infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Qu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyuan Wang
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyi Wang
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Liao
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Xusheng Qiu
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Tan
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Cuiping Song
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Chan Ding
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yingjie Sun
- Department of Avian Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Zengqi Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lui WY, Ong CP, Cheung PHH, Ye ZW, Chan CP, To KKW, Yuen KS, Jin DY. Nsp1 facilitates SARS-CoV-2 replication through calcineurin-NFAT signaling. mBio 2024; 15:e0039224. [PMID: 38411085 PMCID: PMC11005343 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00392-24] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has been intensely studied in search of effective antiviral treatments. The immunosuppressant cyclosporine A (CsA) has been suggested to be a pan-coronavirus inhibitor, yet its underlying mechanism remained largely unknown. Here, we found that non-structural protein 1 (Nsp1) of SARS-CoV-2 usurped CsA-suppressed nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) signaling to drive the expression of cellular DEAD-box helicase 5 (DDX5), which facilitates viral replication. Nsp1 interacted with calcineurin A (CnA) to displace the regulatory protein regulator of calcineurin 3 (RCAN3) of CnA for NFAT activation. The influence of NFAT activation on SARS-CoV-2 replication was also validated by using the Nsp1-deficient mutant virus. Calcineurin inhibitors, such as CsA and VIVIT, inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication and exhibited synergistic antiviral effects when used in combination with nirmatrelvir. Our study delineated the molecular mechanism of CsA-mediated inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication and the anti-SARS-CoV-2 action of calcineurin inhibitors. IMPORTANCE Cyclosporine A (CsA), commonly used to inhibit immune responses, is also known to have anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, but its mode of action remains elusive. Here, we provide a model to explain how CsA antagonizes SARS-CoV-2 through three critical proteins: DDX5, NFAT1, and Nsp1. DDX5 is a cellular facilitator of SARS-CoV-2 replication, and NFAT1 controls the production of DDX5. Nsp1 is a viral protein absent from the mature viral particle and capable of activating the function of NFAT1 and DDX5. CsA and similar agents suppress Nsp1, NFAT1, and DDX5 to exert their anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity either alone or in combination with Paxlovid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wai-Yin Lui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Chon Phin Ong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | | | - Zi-Wei Ye
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Chi-Ping Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Kelvin Kai-Wang To
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Kit-San Yuen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- School of Nursing, Tung Wah College, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Dong-Yan Jin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Holguin-Cruz JA, Bui JM, Jha A, Na D, Gsponer J. Widespread alteration of protein autoinhibition in human cancers. Cell Syst 2024; 15:246-263.e7. [PMID: 38366601 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Autoinhibition is a prevalent allosteric regulatory mechanism in signaling proteins. Reduced autoinhibition underlies the tumorigenic effect of some known cancer drivers, but whether autoinhibition is altered generally in cancer remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that cancer-associated missense mutations, in-frame insertions/deletions, and fusion breakpoints are enriched within inhibitory allosteric switches (IASs) across all cancer types. Selection for IASs that are recurrently mutated in cancers identifies established and unknown cancer drivers. Recurrent missense mutations in IASs of these drivers are associated with distinct, cancer-specific changes in molecular signaling. For the specific case of PPP3CA, the catalytic subunit of calcineurin, we provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of altered autoinhibition by cancer mutations using biomolecular simulations, and demonstrate that such mutations are associated with transcriptome changes consistent with increased calcineurin signaling. Our integrative study shows that autoinhibition-modulating genetic alterations are positively selected for by cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A Holguin-Cruz
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jennifer M Bui
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ashwani Jha
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Dokyun Na
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 156-756, Republic of Korea
| | - Jörg Gsponer
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li B, Yang Z, Li L, Wang Y, Jin F, Zhang L, Zhang Y. Significant role of PPP3CB in malignant gliomas development, prognosis and potential therapeutic application-a study based on comprehensive bioinformatics, cell experiments and immunohistochemistry analyses. Biochem Biophys Rep 2024; 37:101603. [PMID: 38130419 PMCID: PMC10733678 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101603] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Malignant gliomas are the most prevalent and fatal types of primary malignant brain tumors with poor prognosis. Protein phosphatase 3 catalytic subunit beta (PPP3CB) is a pivotal constituent of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatases and widely expressed in brain. We aimed at identifying whether PPP3CB has potential in being a novel biomarker of malignant gliomas, bringing new insights to clinical management and therapy. Methods Transcriptomes and clinical data of Glioblastoma (GBM) and low-grade glioma (LGG) samples were downloaded from TCGA and CGGA. We first explored the expressional and survival features of tumor tissues. Then, PPP3CB-associated genes were identified and their functional pathways were explored through GSEA analyses. Western blotting was conducted to modify PPP3CB expression. Samples of glioma patients and healthy controls were collected and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to detect protein level. Further, we carried out an immune infiltration analysis, explored the correlation between PPP3CB and immune checkpoint genes, as well as to assessed the tumor mutation burden (TMB) and tumor microenvironment score (TMEscore) of PPP3CB. Results PPP3CB expression in malignant glioma tissues was significantly downregulated and was considered an independent prognostic factor. Several functional pathways were observed through functional pathway analyses. PPP3CB's expression was strongly related to the infiltration of various immune cells and expression of key immune checkpoint genes. PPP3CB expression in high-grade gliomas was significantly lower, affecting glioma cells' proliferation and apoptosis in vitro. Conclusion PPP3CB was a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of malignant gliomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Lulu Li
- Division of Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Cardiac Surgery Department, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Yongxin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Feng Jin
- The Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266042, Shandong, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Youjing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Martinez TP, Larsen ME, Sullivan E, Woolfrey KM, Dell’Acqua ML. Amyloid-β-induced dendritic spine elimination requires Ca 2+-permeable AMPA receptors, AKAP-Calcineurin-NFAT signaling, and the NFAT target gene Mdm2. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0175-23.2024. [PMID: 38331575 PMCID: PMC10925900 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0175-23.2024] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is associated with brain accumulation of synaptotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides produced by the proteolytic processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP). Cognitive impairments associated with AD correlate with dendritic spine and excitatory synapse loss, particularly within the hippocampus. In rodents, soluble Aβ oligomers impair hippocampus-dependent learning and memory, promote dendritic spine loss, inhibit NMDA-type glutamate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP), and promote synaptic depression (LTD), at least in part through activation of the Ca2+-CaM-dependent phosphatase calcineurin (CaN). Yet, questions remain regarding Aβ-dependent postsynaptic CaN signaling specifically at the synapse to mediate its synaptotoxicity. Here, we use pharmacologic and genetic approaches to demonstrate a role for postsynaptic signaling via A kinase-anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150)-scaffolded CaN in mediating Aβ-induced dendritic spine loss in hippocampal neurons from rats and mice of both sexes. In particular, we found that Ca2+-permeable AMPA-type glutamate receptors (CP-AMPARs), which were previously shown to signal through AKAP-anchored CaN to promote both LTD and Aβ-dependent inhibition of LTP, are also required upstream of AKAP-CaN signaling to mediate spine loss via overexpression of APP containing multiple mutations linked to familial, early-onset AD and increased Aβ production. In addition, we found that the CaN-dependent nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) transcription factors are required downstream to promote Aβ-mediated dendritic spine loss. Finally, we identified the E3-ubiquitin ligase Mdm2, which was previously linked to LTD and developmental synapse elimination, as a downstream NFAT target gene upregulated by Aβ whose enzymatic activity is required for Aβ-mediated spine loss.Significance Statement Impaired hippocampal function and synapse loss are hallmarks of AD linked to Aβ oligomers. Aβ exposure acutely blocks hippocampal LTP and enhances LTD and chronically leads to dendritic spine synapse loss. In particular, Aβ hijacks normal plasticity mechanisms, biasing them toward synapse weakening/elimination, with previous studies broadly linking CaN phosphatase signaling to this synaptic dysfunction. However, we do not understand how Aβ engages signaling specifically at synapses. Here we elucidate a synapse-to-nucleus signaling pathway coordinated by the postsynaptic scaffold protein AKAP150 that is activated by Ca2+ influx through CP-AMPARs and transduced to nucleus by CaN-NFAT signaling to transcriptionally upregulate the E3-ubiquitin ligase Mdm2 that is required for Aβ-mediated spine loss. These findings identify Mdm2 as potential therapeutic target for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler P. Martinez
- Pharmacology PhD Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Matthew E. Larsen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Neuroscience PhD Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Emily Sullivan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Kevin M. Woolfrey
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Mark L. Dell’Acqua
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Neurotechnology Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lee SW, Oh YM, Victor MB, Yang Y, Chen S, Strunilin I, Dahiya S, Dolle RE, Pak SC, Silverman GA, Perlmutter DH, Yoo AS. Longitudinal modeling of human neuronal aging reveals the contribution of the RCAN1-TFEB pathway to Huntington's disease neurodegeneration. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:95-109. [PMID: 38066314 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00538-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a common risk factor in neurodegenerative disorders. Investigating neuronal aging in an isogenic background stands to facilitate analysis of the interplay between neuronal aging and neurodegeneration. Here we perform direct neuronal reprogramming of longitudinally collected human fibroblasts to reveal genetic pathways altered at different ages. Comparative transcriptome analysis of longitudinally aged striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in Huntington's disease identified pathways involving RCAN1, a negative regulator of calcineurin. Notably, RCAN1 protein increased with age in reprogrammed MSNs as well as in human postmortem striatum and RCAN1 knockdown rescued patient-derived MSNs of Huntington's disease from degeneration. RCAN1 knockdown enhanced chromatin accessibility of genes involved in longevity and autophagy, mediated through enhanced calcineurin activity, leading to TFEB's nuclear localization by dephosphorylation. Furthermore, G2-115, an analog of glibenclamide with autophagy-enhancing activities, reduced the RCAN1-calcineurin interaction, phenocopying the effect of RCAN1 knockdown. Our results demonstrate that targeting RCAN1 genetically or pharmacologically can increase neuronal resilience in Huntington's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong Won Lee
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA, USA
| | - Young Mi Oh
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA, USA
| | - Matheus B Victor
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Shawei Chen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ilya Strunilin
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Roland E Dolle
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Stephen C Pak
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gary A Silverman
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David H Perlmutter
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Powell JT, Kayesh R, Ballesteros-Perez A, Alam K, Niyonshuti P, Soderblom EJ, Ding K, Xu C, Yue W. Assessing Trans-Inhibition of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 by Calcineurin and/or PPIase Inhibitors and Global Identification of OATP1B1/3-Associated Proteins. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:63. [PMID: 38258074 PMCID: PMC10818623 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010063] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B1 and OATP1B3 are key determinants of drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Various drugs including the calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) cyclosporine A (CsA) exert preincubation-induced trans-inhibitory effects upon OATP1B1 and/or OATP1B3 (abbreviated as OATP1B1/3) by unknown mechanism(s). OATP1B1/3 are phosphoproteins; calcineurin, which dephosphorylates and regulates numerous phosphoproteins, has not previously been investigated in the context of preincubation-induced trans-inhibition of OATP1B1/3. Herein, we compare the trans-inhibitory effects exerted on OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 by CsA, the non-analogous CNI tacrolimus, and the non-CNI CsA analogue SCY-635 in transporter-overexpressing human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 stable cell lines. Preincubation (10-60 min) with tacrolimus (1-10 µM) rapidly and significantly reduces OATP1B1- and OATP1B3-mediated transport up to 0.18 ± 0.03- and 0.20 ± 0.02-fold compared to the control, respectively. Both CsA and SCY-635 can trans-inhibit OATP1B1, with the inhibitory effects progressively increasing over a 60 min preincubation time. At each equivalent preincubation time, CsA has greater trans-inhibitory effects toward OATP1B1 than SCY-635. Preincubation with SCY-635 for 60 min yielded IC50 of 2.2 ± 1.4 µM against OATP1B1, which is ~18 fold greater than that of CsA (0.12 ± 0.04 µM). Furthermore, a proteomics-based screening for protein interactors was used to examine possible proteins and processes contributing to OATP1B1/3 regulation and preincubation-induced inhibition by CNIs and other drugs. A total of 861 and 357 proteins were identified as specifically associated with OATP1B1 and OATP1B3, respectively, including various protein kinases, ubiquitin-related enzymes, the tacrolimus (FK506)-binding proteins FKBP5 and FKBP8, and several known regulatory targets of calcineurin. The current study reports several novel findings that expand our understanding of impaired OATP1B1/3 function; these include preincubation-induced trans-inhibition of OATP1B1/3 by the CNI tacrolimus, greater preincubation-induced inhibition by CsA compared to its non-CNI analogue SCY-635, and association of OATP1B1/3 with various proteins relevant to established and candidate OATP1B1/3 regulatory processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John T. Powell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| | - Ruhul Kayesh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| | - Alexandra Ballesteros-Perez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| | - Khondoker Alam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| | - Pascaline Niyonshuti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| | - Erik J. Soderblom
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (K.D.); (C.X.)
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (K.D.); (C.X.)
| | - Wei Yue
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA; (J.T.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Villalobo A. Ca 2+ Signaling and Src Functions in Tumor Cells. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1739. [PMID: 38136610 PMCID: PMC10741856 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121739] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Signaling by calcium ion (Ca2+) plays a prominent role in cell physiology, and these mechanisms are frequently altered in tumor cells. In this review, we consider the interplay of Ca2+ signaling and the functions of the proto-oncogene non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Src in tumor cells, and the viral oncogenic variant v-Src in transformed cells. Also, other members of the Src-family kinases are considered in this context. The role of Ca2+ in the cell is frequently mediated by Ca2+-binding proteins, where the Ca2+-sensor protein calmodulin (CaM) plays a prominent, essential role in many cellular signaling pathways. Thus, we cover the available information on the role and direct interaction of CaM with c-Src and v-Src in cancerous cells, the phosphorylation of CaM by v-Src/c-Src, and the actions of different CaM-regulated Ser/Thr-protein kinases and the CaM-dependent phosphatase calcineurin on v-Src/c-Src. Finally, we mention some clinical implications of these systems to identify mechanisms that could be targeted for the therapeutic treatment of human cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Villalobo
- Cancer and Human Molecular Genetics Area-Oto-Neurosurgery Research Group, University Hospital La Paz Research Institute (IdiPAZ), Paseo de la Castellana 261, E-28046 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hasani S, Fathabadi F, Saeidi S, Mohajernoei P, Hesari Z. The role of NFATc1 in the progression and metastasis of prostate cancer: A review on the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1895-1904. [PMID: 37814550 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
A common type of cancer among men is the prostate cancer that kills many people every year. The multistage of this disease and the involvement of the vital organs of the body have reduced the life span and quality of life of the people involved and turned the treatment process into a complex one. NFATc1 biomarker contributes significantly in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease by increasing its expression in prostate cancer and helping the proliferation, differentiation, and invasion of cancer cells through different signaling pathways. NFATc1 is also able to target the metabolism of cancer cells by inserting specific oncogene molecules such as c-myc that it causes cell growth and proliferation. Bone is a common tissue where prostate cancer cells metastasize. In this regard, the activity of NFATc1, through the regulation of different signaling cascades, including the RANKL/RANK signaling pathway, in turn, increases the activity of osteoclasts, and as a result, bone tissue is gradually ruined. Using Silibinin as a medicinal plant extract can inhibit the activity of osteoclasts related to prostate cancer by targeting NFATc. Undoubtedly, NFATc1 is one of the effective oncogenes related to prostate cancer, which has the potential to put this cancer on the path of progression and metastasis. In this review, we will highlight the role of NFATc1 in the progression and metastasis of prostate cancer. Furthermore, we will summarize signaling pathways and molecular mechanism, through which NFATc1 regulates the process of prostate cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Hasani
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Khalkhal University of Medical Sciences, Khalkhal, Iran
| | - Farshid Fathabadi
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Saman Saeidi
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Pouya Mohajernoei
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Zahra Hesari
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chang YW, Chen YC, Chen CC. Identification of Novel Targeting Sites of Calcineurin and CaMKII in Human Ca V3.2 T-Type Calcium Channel. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2891. [PMID: 38001892 PMCID: PMC10669385 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112891] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The Cav3.2 T-type calcium channel is implicated in various pathological conditions, including cardiac hypertrophy, epilepsy, autism, and chronic pain. Phosphorylation of Cav3.2 by multiple kinases plays a pivotal role in regulating its calcium channel function. The calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase, calcineurin, interacts physically with Cav3.2 and modulates its activity. However, it remains unclear whether calcineurin dephosphorylates Cav3.2, the specific spatial regions on Cav3.2 involved, and the extent of the quantitative impact. In this study, we elucidated the serine/threonine residues on Cav3.2 targeted by calcineurin using quantitative mass spectrometry. We identified six serine residues in the N-terminus, II-III loop, and C-terminus of Cav3.2 that were dephosphorylated by calcineurin. Notably, a higher level of dephosphorylation was observed in the Cav3.2 C-terminus, where calcineurin binds to this channel. Additionally, a previously known CaMKII-phosphorylated site, S1198, was found to be dephosphorylated by calcineurin. Furthermore, we also discovered that a novel CaMKII-phosphorylated site, S2137, underwent dephosphorylation by calcineurin. In CAD cells, a mouse central nervous system cell line, membrane depolarization led to an increase in the phosphorylation of endogenous Cav3.2 at S2137. Mutation of S2137 affected the calcium channel function of Cav3.2. Our findings advance the understanding of Cav3.2 regulation not only through kinase phosphorylation but also via calcineurin phosphatase dephosphorylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wang Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
| | | | - Chien-Chang Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jiao S, Li C, Guo F, Zhang J, Zhang H, Cao Z, Wang W, Bu W, Lin M, Lü J, Zhou Z. SUN1/2 controls macrophage polarization via modulating nuclear size and stiffness. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6416. [PMID: 37828059 PMCID: PMC10570371 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42187-5] [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: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Alteration of the size and stiffness of the nucleus triggered by environmental cues are thought to be important for eukaryotic cell fate and function. However, it remains unclear how context-dependent nuclear remodeling occurs and reprograms gene expression. Here we identify the nuclear envelope proteins SUN1/2 as mechano-regulators of the nucleus during M1 polarization of the macrophage. Specifically, we show that LPS treatment decreases the protein levels of SUN1/2 in a CK2-βTrCP-dependent manner to shrink and soften the nucleus, therefore altering the chromatin accessibility for M1-associated gene expression. Notably, the transmembrane helix of SUN1/2 is solely required and sufficient for the nuclear mechano-remodeling. Consistently, SUN1/2 depletion in macrophages facilitates their phagocytosis, tissue infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine production, thereby boosting the antitumor immunity in mice. Thus, our study demonstrates that, in response to inflammatory cues, SUN1/2 proteins act as mechano-regulators to remodel the nucleus and chromatin for M1 polarization of the macrophage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Chuanchuan Li
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 417 E 68th St, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Fenghua Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Hua'shan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhifa Cao
- Department of Stomatology, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Wenjia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Wenbo Bu
- Department of Materials Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Mobin Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China.
| | - Junhong Lü
- Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China.
| | - Zhaocai Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Department of Stomatology, Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chan BD, Wong WY, Lee MML, Yue PYK, Dai X, Tsim KWK, Hsiao WLW, Li M, Li XY, Tai WCS. Isolation and characterization of ZK002, a novel dual function snake venom protein from Deinagkistrodon acutus with anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1227962. [PMID: 37841933 PMCID: PMC10570812 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1227962] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Pathological angiogenesis, the abnormal or excessive generation of blood vessels, plays an important role in many diseases including cancer, diabetic retinopathy, psoriasis, and arthritis. Additionally, increasing evidence supports the close linkage between angiogenesis and inflammation. Snake venoms are a rich natural source of biologically active molecules and carry rich potential for the discovery of anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory modulators. Methods: Here, we isolated and purified a novel protein, ZK002, from the venom of the snake Deinagkistrodon acutus, and investigated its anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities and mechanisms. Results: ZK002 was identified as a 30 kDa heterodimeric protein of α and β chains, which exhibited anti-angiogenic activity in various in vitro assays. Mechanistically, ZK002 inhibited activation of VEGF signaling and related mediators including eNOS, p38, LIMK, and HSP27. ZK002 also upregulated the metalloproteinase inhibitor TIMP3 and inhibited components of the VEGF-induced signaling cascade, PPP3R2 and SH2D2A. The anti-angiogenic activity of ZK002 was confirmed in multiple in vivo models. ZK002 could also inhibit the in vitro expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as in vivo inflammation in the carrageenin-induced edema rat model. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the potential for further development of ZK002 as a dual function therapeutic against diseases with involvement of pathogenic angiogenesis and chronic inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Dow Chan
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing-Yan Wong
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Magnolia Muk-Lan Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick Ying-Kit Yue
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiangrong Dai
- Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karl Wah-Keung Tsim
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wen-Luan Wendy Hsiao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mandy Li
- Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology Pharmaceutical Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiao-Yi Li
- Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology Pharmaceutical Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William Chi-Shing Tai
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), Shenzhen Research Institute of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Xu H, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Dai X, Wang X, Chen H, Yan L, Gong X, Yue J, Wan Z, Fan J, Bai Y, Luo Y, Li Y. Dynamic Monitoring of Intracellular Tacrolimus and Mycophenolic Acid Therapy in Renal Transplant Recipients Using Magnetic Bead Extraction Combined with LC-MS/MS. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2318. [PMID: 37765287 PMCID: PMC10534614 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092318] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolic acid (MPA) are commonly used immunosuppressive therapies after renal transplant. Our objective was to quantify TAC and MPA concentrations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and to evaluate and validate the performance of the methodology. A prospective follow-up cohort study was conducted to determine whether intracellular concentrations were associated with adverse outcomes in renal transplants. METHODS PBMCs were prepared using the Ficoll separation technique and purified with erythrocyte lysis. The cells were counted using Sysmex XN-3100 and then packaged and frozen according to a 50 µL volume containing 1.0 × 106 cells. TAC and MPA were extracted using MagnaBeads and quantified using an LC-MS/MS platform. The chromatography was run on a reversed-phase Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column (1.7 µm, 50 mm × 2.1 mm) for gradient elution separation with a total run time of 4.5 min and a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. Mobile phases A and B were water and methanol, respectively, each containing 2 mM ammonium acetate and 0.1% formic acid. Renal transplant recipients receiving TAC and MPA in combination were selected for clinical validation and divided into two groups: a stable group and an adverse outcome group. The concentrations were dynamically monitored at 5, 7, 14, and 21 days (D5, D7, D14, and D21) and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months (M1, M2, M3, and M6) after operation. RESULTS Method performance validation was performed according to Food and Drug Administration guidelines, showing high specificity and sensitivity. The TAC and MPA calibration curves were linear (r2 = 0.9988 and r2 = 0.9990, respectively). Both intra-day and inter-day imprecision and inaccuracy were less than 15%. Matrix effects and recoveries were satisfactory. The TAC and MPA concentrations in 304 "real" PBMC samples from 47 renal transplant recipients were within the calibration curve range (0.12 to 16.40 ng/mL and 0.20 to 4.72 ng/mL, respectively). There was a weak correlation between PBMC-C0TAC and WB-C0TAC (p < 0.05), but no correlation was found for MPA. The level of immunosuppressive intra-patient variation (IPV) was higher in PBMC at 77.47% (55.06, 97.76%) than in WB at 34.61% (21.90, 49.85%). During the dynamic change in C0TAC, PBMC-C0TAC was in a fluctuating state, and no stable period was found. PBMC-C0TAC did not show a significant difference between the stable and adverse outcome group, but the level of the adverse outcome group was generally higher than that of the stable group. CONCLUSIONS Compared with conventional therapeutic drug monitoring, the proposed rapid and sensitive method can provide more clinically reliable information on drug concentration at an active site, which has the potential to be applied to the clinical monitoring of intracellular immunosuppressive concentration in organ transplantation. However, the application of PBMC-C0TAC in adverse outcomes of renal transplant should be studied further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Yingying Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine (Shanghai), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China;
| | - Yinan Zhang
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China;
| | - Xinhua Dai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Xueqiao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Haojun Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Lin Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Xingxin Gong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Jiaxi Yue
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Zhengli Wan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Jiwen Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Yangjuan Bai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Yao Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (X.D.); (X.W.); (L.Y.); (X.G.); (J.Y.); (Z.W.); (J.F.); (Y.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nolze A, Matern S, Grossmann C. Calcineurin Is a Universal Regulator of Vessel Function-Focus on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Cells 2023; 12:2269. [PMID: 37759492 PMCID: PMC10528183 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin, a serine/threonine phosphatase regulating transcription factors like NFaT and CREB, is well known for its immune modulatory effects and role in cardiac hypertrophy. Results from experiments with calcineurin knockout animals and calcineurin inhibitors indicate that calcineurin also plays a crucial role in vascular function, especially in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In the aorta, calcineurin stimulates the proliferation and migration of VSMCs in response to vascular injury or angiotensin II administration, leading to pathological vessel wall thickening. In the heart, calcineurin mediates coronary artery formation and VSMC differentiation, which are crucial for proper heart development. In pulmonary VSMCs, calcineurin/NFaT signaling regulates the release of Ca2+, resulting in increased vascular tone followed by pulmonary arterial hypertension. In renal VSMCs, calcineurin regulates extracellular matrix secretion promoting fibrosis development. In the mesenteric and cerebral arteries, calcineurin mediates a phenotypic switch of VSMCs leading to altered cell function. Gaining deeper insights into the underlying mechanisms of calcineurin signaling will help researchers to understand developmental and pathogenetical aspects of the vasculature. In this review, we provide an overview of the physiological function and pathophysiology of calcineurin in the vascular system with a focus on vascular smooth muscle cells in different organs. Overall, there are indications that under certain pathological settings reduced calcineurin activity seems to be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Claudia Grossmann
- Julius Bernstein Institute of Physiology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sun Y, Tao Y, Geng Z, Zheng F, Wang Y, Wang Y, Fu S, Wang W, Xie C, Zhang Y, Gong F. The activation of CaN/NFAT signaling pathway in macrophages aggravated Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract-induced Kawasaki disease vasculitis. Cytokine 2023; 169:156304. [PMID: 37487381 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156304] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES By using GWAS(genome-wide association studies) and linkage disequilibrium analysis to investigate the susceptibility genes of KD(Kawasaki disease), previous studies have identified that the CaN(calcineurin)-NFAT(the nuclear factor of activated T cell) signal pathway were significantly associated with susceptibility to KD. However, little is known about the molecular basis of the CaN/NFAT pathway involved in KD. Therefore, in our study we investigate the role of Ca2+/CaN/NFAT signaling pathway in macrophages in vitro and in vivo on coronary artery lesions induced by LCWE (Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract). METHODS AND RESULTS We observed that LCWE could increase the expression of NFAT1 and NFAT2 in macrophages in vitro, and also enhance the transcriptional activity of NFAT by promoting the nucleus translocation. Similarly, in LCWE-induced mice model, the expression of NFAT1 and NFAT2 and associated proinflammatory factors were increased significantly. In addition, by knocking down or overexpressing NFAT1 or NFAT2 in macrophages, the results indicated that NFAT signaling pathway mediated LCWE-induced immune responses in macrophages and regulated the synthesis of IL(interleukin)-6, IL-1β and TNF(tumor necrosis factor)-α in LCWE-induced macrophage activation. As well, we found that this process could be suppressed by CaN inhibitor CsA(cyclosporinA). CONCLUSIONS Therefore, the CaN/NFAT signaling pathway mediated LCWE-induced immune responses in macrophages, and also participated in the LCWE-induced CALs(coronary artery lesions). And also the inhibitory effect of CsA in LCWE-induced cell model towards a strategy to modulate the CaN/NFAT pathway during the acute course of KD might be helpful in alleviate KD-induced CALs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yameng Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Yijing Tao
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Zhimin Geng
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Fenglei Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Yujia Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Songling Fu
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Chunhong Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Yiying Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China
| | - Fangqi Gong
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. No. 3333 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310052, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sant'Anna R, Robbs BK, de Freitas JA, Dos Santos PP, König A, Outeiro TF, Foguel D. The alpha-synuclein oligomers activate nuclear factor of activated T-cell (NFAT) modulating synaptic homeostasis and apoptosis. Mol Med 2023; 29:111. [PMID: 37596531 PMCID: PMC10439599 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00704-8] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soluble oligomeric forms of alpha-synuclein (aSyn-O) are believed to be one of the main toxic species in Parkinson's disease (PD) leading to degeneration. aSyn-O can induce Ca2+ influx, over activating downstream pathways leading to PD phenotype. Calcineurin (CN), a phosphatase regulated by Ca2+ levels, activates NFAT transcription factors that are involved in the regulation of neuronal plasticity, growth, and survival. METHODS Here, using a combination of cell toxicity and gene regulation assays performed in the presence of classical inhibitors of the NFAT/CN pathway, we investigate NFAT's role in neuronal degeneration induced by aSyn-O. RESULTS aSyn-O are toxic to neurons leading to cell death, loss of neuron ramification and reduction of synaptic proteins which are reversed by CN inhibition with ciclosporin-A or VIVIT, a NFAT specific inhibitor. aSyn-O induce NFAT nuclear translocation and transactivation. We found that aSyn-O modulates the gene involved in the maintenance of synapses, synapsin 1 (Syn 1). Syn1 mRNA and protein and synaptic puncta are drastically reduced in cells treated with aSyn-O which are reversed by NFAT inhibition. CONCLUSIONS For the first time a direct role of NFAT in aSyn-O-induced toxicity and Syn1 gene regulation was demonstrated, enlarging our understanding of the pathways underpinnings synucleinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Sant'Anna
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Bloco E sala 42, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, Brazil
| | - Bruno K Robbs
- Departamento de Ciência Básica, Instituto de Saúde de Nova Friburgo, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Nova Friburgo, RJ, 28625-650, Brazil
| | - Júlia Araújo de Freitas
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Bloco E sala 42, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Pires Dos Santos
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Annekatrin König
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tiago Fleming Outeiro
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Waldweg 33, 37073, Göttingen, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Debora Foguel
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Bloco E sala 42, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Martín JF. Interaction of calcium responsive proteins and transcriptional factors with the PHO regulon in yeasts and fungi. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1225774. [PMID: 37601111 PMCID: PMC10437122 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1225774] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphate and calcium ions are nutrients that play key roles in growth, differentiation and the production of bioactive secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi. Phosphate concentration regulates the biosynthesis of hundreds of fungal metabolites. The central mechanisms of phosphate transport and regulation, mediated by the master Pho4 transcriptional factor are known, but many aspects of the control of gene expression need further research. High ATP concentration in the cells leads to inositol pyrophosphate molecules formation, such as IP3 and IP7, that act as phosphorylation status reporters. Calcium ions are intracellular messengers in eukaryotic organisms and calcium homeostasis follows elaborated patterns in response to different nutritional and environmental factors, including cross-talking with phosphate concentrations. A large part of the intracellular calcium is stored in vacuoles and other organelles forming complexes with polyphosphate. The free cytosolic calcium concentration is maintained by transport from the external medium or by release from the store organelles through calcium permeable transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels. Calcium ions, particularly the free cytosolic calcium levels, control the biosynthesis of fungal metabolites by two mechanisms, 1) direct interaction of calcium-bound calmodulin with antibiotic synthesizing enzymes, and 2) by the calmodulin-calcineurin signaling cascade. Control of very different secondary metabolites, including pathogenicity determinants, are mediated by calcium through the Crz1 factor. Several interactions between calcium homeostasis and phosphate have been demonstrated in the last decade: 1) The inositol pyrophosphate IP3 triggers the release of calcium ions from internal stores into the cytosol, 2) Expression of the high affinity phosphate transporter Pho89, a Na+/phosphate symporter, is controlled by Crz1. Also, mutants defective in the calcium permeable TRPCa7-like of Saccharomyces cerevisiae shown impaired expression of Pho89. This information suggests that CrzA and Pho89 play key roles in the interaction of phosphate and calcium regulatory pathways, 3) Finally, acidocalcisomes organelles have been found in mycorrhiza and in some melanin producing fungi that show similar characteristics as protozoa calcisomes. In these organelles there is a close interaction between orthophosphate, pyrophosphate and polyphosphate and calcium ions that are absorbed in the polyanionic polyphosphate matrix. These advances open new perspectives for the control of fungal metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F. Martín
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Área de Microbiología, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mondal R, Banerjee C, Nandy S, Roy M, Chakraborty J. Calcineurin inhibition protects against dopamine toxicity and attenuates behavioral decline in a Parkinson's disease model. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:140. [PMID: 37528492 PMCID: PMC10394860 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01068-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parkinson's disease (PD), a highly prevalent neuro-motor disorder is caused due to progressive loss of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons at substantia nigra region of brain. This leads to depleted dopamine (DA) content at striatum, thus affecting the fine tuning of basal ganglia. In patients, this imbalance is manifested by akinesia, catalepsy and tremor. PD associated behavioral dysfunctions are frequently mitigated by l-DOPA (LD) therapy, a precursor for DA synthesis. Due to progressive neurodegeneration, LD eventually loses applicability in PD. Although DA is cytotoxic, it is unclear whether LD therapy can accelerate PD progression or not. LD itself does not lead to neurodegeneration in vivo, but previous reports demonstrate that LD treatment mediated excess DA can potentiate neurotoxicity when PD associated genetic or epigenetic aberrations are involved. So, minimizing DA toxicity during the therapy is an absolute necessity to halt or slowdown PD progression. The two major contributing factors associated with DA toxicity are: degradation by Monoamine oxidase and DAquinone (DAQ) formation. RESULTS Here, we report that apoptotic mitochondrial fragmentation via Calcineurin (CaN)-DRP1 axis is a common downstream event for both these initial cues, inhibiting which can protect cells from DA toxicity comprehensively. No protective effect is observed, in terms of cell survival when only PxIxIT domain of CaN is obstructed, demonstrating the importance to block DRP1-CaN axis specifically. Further, evaluation of the impact of DA exposure on PD progression in a mice model reveal that LD mediated behavioral recovery diminishes with time, mostly because of continued DAergic cell death and dendritic spine loss at striatum. CaN inhibition, alone or in combination with LD, offer long term behavioral protection. This protective effect is mediated specifically by hindering CaN-DRP1 axis, whereas inhibiting interaction between CaN and other substrates, including proteins involved in neuro-inflammation, remained ineffective when LD is co-administered. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we conclude that DA toxicity can be circumvented by CaN inhibition and it can mitigate PD related behavioral aberrations by protecting neuronal architecture at striatum. We propose that CaN inhibitors might extend the therapeutic efficacy of LD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupsha Mondal
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Chayan Banerjee
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sumangal Nandy
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Moumita Roy
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Joy Chakraborty
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Seegren PV, Harper LR, Downs TK, Zhao XY, Viswanathan SB, Stremska ME, Olson RJ, Kennedy J, Ewald SE, Kumar P, Desai BN. Reduced mitochondrial calcium uptake in macrophages is a major driver of inflammaging. NATURE AGING 2023:10.1038/s43587-023-00436-8. [PMID: 37277641 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00436-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to age-associated inflammation or inflammaging, but underlying mechanisms are not understood. Analyses of 700 human blood transcriptomes revealed clear signs of age-associated low-grade inflammation. Among changes in mitochondrial components, we found that the expression of mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) and its regulatory subunit MICU1, genes central to mitochondrial Ca2+ (mCa2+) signaling, correlated inversely with age. Indeed, mCa2+ uptake capacity of mouse macrophages decreased significantly with age. We show that in both human and mouse macrophages, reduced mCa2+ uptake amplifies cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations and potentiates downstream nuclear factor kappa B activation, which is central to inflammation. Our findings pinpoint the mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex as a keystone molecular apparatus that links age-related changes in mitochondrial physiology to systemic macrophage-mediated age-associated inflammation. The findings raise the exciting possibility that restoring mCa2+ uptake capacity in tissue-resident macrophages may decrease inflammaging of specific organs and alleviate age-associated conditions such as neurodegenerative and cardiometabolic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip V Seegren
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Logan R Harper
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Taylor K Downs
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhao
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Marta E Stremska
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Rachel J Olson
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Joel Kennedy
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Sarah E Ewald
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- University of Virginia, Bioinformatics Core, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Bimal N Desai
- Pharmacology Department, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Shum A, Zaichick S, McElroy G, D’Alessandro K, Alasady M, Novakovic M, Peng W, Grebenik E, Chung D, Flanagan M, Smith R, Morales A, Stumpf L, McGrath K, Krainc D, Mendillo M, Prakriya M, Chandel N, Caraveo G. Octopamine metabolically reprograms astrocytes to confer neuroprotection against α-synuclein. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2217396120. [PMID: 37068235 PMCID: PMC10151466 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2217396120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Octopamine is a well-established invertebrate neurotransmitter involved in fight or flight responses. In mammals, its function was replaced by epinephrine. Nevertheless, it is present at trace amounts and can modulate the release of monoamine neurotransmitters by a yet unidentified mechanism. Here, through a multidisciplinary approach utilizing in vitro and in vivo models of α-synucleinopathy, we uncovered an unprecedented role for octopamine in driving the conversion from toxic to neuroprotective astrocytes in the cerebral cortex by fostering aerobic glycolysis. Physiological levels of neuron-derived octopamine act on astrocytes via a trace amine-associated receptor 1-Orai1-Ca2+-calcineurin-mediated signaling pathway to stimulate lactate secretion. Lactate uptake in neurons via the monocarboxylase transporter 2-calcineurin-dependent pathway increases ATP and prevents neurodegeneration. Pathological increases of octopamine caused by α-synuclein halt lactate production in astrocytes and short-circuits the metabolic communication to neurons. Our work provides a unique function of octopamine as a modulator of astrocyte metabolism and subsequent neuroprotection with implications to α-synucleinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Shum
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Sofia Zaichick
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Gregory S. McElroy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Karis D’Alessandro
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Milad J. Alasady
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Michaela Novakovic
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, ChicagoIL60611
| | - Wesley Peng
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Ekaterina A. Grebenik
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Daayun Chung
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Margaret E. Flanagan
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, ChicagoIL60611
- Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease, Northwestern University Fienberg School of Medicine, ChicagoIL60611
| | - Roger Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Alejandro Morales
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Laetitia Stumpf
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Kaitlyn McGrath
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Dimitri Krainc
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Marc L. Mendillo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Murali Prakriya
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, ChicagoIL60611
| | - Navdeep S. Chandel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| | - Gabriela Caraveo
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL60611
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lim D, Tapella L, Dematteis G, Talmon M, Genazzani AA. Calcineurin Signalling in Astrocytes: From Pathology to Physiology and Control of Neuronal Functions. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1077-1090. [PMID: 36083398 PMCID: PMC10030417 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03744-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Calcineurin (CaN), a Ca2+/calmodulin-activated serine/threonine phosphatase, acts as a Ca2+-sensitive switch regulating cellular functions through protein dephosphorylation and activation of gene transcription. In astrocytes, the principal homeostatic cells in the CNS, over-activation of CaN is known to drive pathological transcriptional remodelling, associated with neuroinflammation in diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and brain trauma. Recent reports suggest that, in physiological conditions, the activity of CaN in astrocytes is transcription-independent and is required for maintenance of basal protein synthesis rate and activation of astrocytic Na+/K+ pump thereby contributing to neuronal functions such as neuronal excitability and memory formation. In this contribution we overview the role of Ca2+ and CaN signalling in astroglial pathophysiology focusing on the emerging physiological role of CaN in astrocytes. We propose a model for the context-dependent switch of CaN activity from the post-transcriptional regulation of cell proteostasis in healthy astrocytes to the CaN-dependent transcriptional activation in neuroinflammation-associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "Amedeo Avogadro", Via Bovio 6, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| | - Laura Tapella
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "Amedeo Avogadro", Via Bovio 6, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Giulia Dematteis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "Amedeo Avogadro", Via Bovio 6, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Maria Talmon
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale "Amedeo Avogadro", Via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Armando A Genazzani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale "Amedeo Avogadro", Via Bovio 6, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zgajnar N, Lagadari M, Gallo LI, Piwien-Pilipuk G, Galigniana MD. Mitochondrial-nuclear communication by FKBP51 shuttling. J Cell Biochem 2023. [PMID: 36815347 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The HSP90-binding immunophilin FKBP51 is a soluble protein that shows high homology and structural similarity with FKBP52. Both immunophilins are functionally divergent and often show antagonistic actions. They were first described in steroid receptor complexes, their exchange in the complex being the earliest known event in steroid receptor activation upon ligand binding. In addition to steroid-related events, several pleiotropic actions of FKBP51 have emerged during the last years, ranging from cell differentiation and apoptosis to metabolic and psychiatric disorders. On the other hand, mitochondria play vital cellular roles in maintaining energy homeostasis, responding to stress conditions, and affecting cell cycle regulation, calcium signaling, redox homeostasis, and so forth. This is achieved by proteins that are encoded in both the nuclear genome and mitochondrial genes. This implies active nuclear-mitochondrial communication to maintain cell homeostasis. Such communication involves factors that regulate nuclear and mitochondrial gene expression affecting the synthesis and recruitment of mitochondrial and nonmitochondrial proteins, and/or changes in the functional state of the mitochondria itself, which enable mitochondria to recover from stress. FKBP51 has emerged as a serious candidate to participate in these regulatory roles since it has been unexpectedly found in mitochondria showing antiapoptotic effects. Such localization involves the tetratricopeptide repeats domains of the immunophilin and not its intrinsic enzymatic activity of peptidylprolyl-isomerase. Importantly, FKBP51 abandons the mitochondria and accumulates in the nucleus upon cell differentiation or during the onset of stress. Nuclear FKBP51 enhances the enzymatic activity of telomerase. The mitochondrial-nuclear trafficking is reversible, and certain situations such as viral infections promote the opposite trafficking, that is, FKBP51 abandons the nucleus and accumulates in mitochondria. In this article, we review the latest findings related to the mitochondrial-nuclear communication mediated by FKBP51 and speculate about the possible implications of this phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Zgajnar
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME)/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Lagadari
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos de Entre Ríos, Concordia, Argentina
| | - Luciana I Gallo
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFYBYNE)/CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Mario D Galigniana
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME)/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Funneling modulatory peptide design with generative models: Discovery and characterization of disruptors of calcineurin protein-protein interactions. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1010874. [PMID: 36730443 PMCID: PMC9928118 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Design of peptide binders is an attractive strategy for targeting "undruggable" protein-protein interfaces. Current design protocols rely on the extraction of an initial sequence from one known protein interactor of the target protein, followed by in-silico or in-vitro mutagenesis-based optimization of its binding affinity. Wet lab protocols can explore only a minor portion of the vast sequence space and cannot efficiently screen for other desirable properties such as high specificity and low toxicity, while in-silico design requires intensive computational resources and often relies on simplified binding models. Yet, for a multivalent protein target, dozens to hundreds of natural protein partners already exist in the cellular environment. Here, we describe a peptide design protocol that harnesses this diversity via a machine learning generative model. After identifying putative natural binding fragments by literature and homology search, a compositional Restricted Boltzmann Machine is trained and sampled to yield hundreds of diverse candidate peptides. The latter are further filtered via flexible molecular docking and an in-vitro microchip-based binding assay. We validate and test our protocol on calcineurin, a calcium-dependent protein phosphatase involved in various cellular pathways in health and disease. In a single screening round, we identified multiple 16-length peptides with up to six mutations from their closest natural sequence that successfully interfere with the binding of calcineurin to its substrates. In summary, integrating protein interaction and sequence databases, generative modeling, molecular docking and interaction assays enables the discovery of novel protein-protein interaction modulators.
Collapse
|
28
|
Nitro-oleic acid regulates T cell activation through post-translational modification of calcineurin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2208924120. [PMID: 36652486 PMCID: PMC9942794 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2208924120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FAs) are unsaturated fatty acid nitration products that exhibit anti-inflammatory actions in experimental mouse models of autoimmune and allergic diseases. These electrophilic molecules interfere with intracellular signaling pathways by reversible post-translational modification of nucleophilic amino-acid residues. Several regulatory proteins have been identified as targets of NO2-FAs, modifying their activity and promoting gene expression changes that result in anti-inflammatory effects. Herein, we report the effects of nitro-oleic acid (NO2-OA) on pro-inflammatory T cell functions, showing that 9- and 10-NOA, but not their oleic acid precursor, decrease T cell proliferation, expression of activation markers CD25 and CD71 on the plasma membrane, and IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ cytokine gene expressions. Moreover, we have found that NO2-OA inhibits the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) and that this inhibition takes place through the regulation of the phosphatase activity of calcineurin (CaN), hindering NFAT dephosphorylation, and nuclear translocation in activated T cells. Finally, using mass spectrometry-based approaches, we have found that NO2-OA nitroalkylates CaNA on four Cys (Cys129, 228, 266, and 372), of which only nitroalkylation on Cys372 was of importance for the regulation of CaN phosphatase activity in cells, disturbing functional CaNA/CaNB heterodimer formation. These results provide evidence for an additional mechanism by which NO2-FAs exert their anti-inflammatory actions, pointing to their potential as therapeutic bioactive lipids for the modulation of harmful T cell-mediated immune responses.
Collapse
|
29
|
Di Gregorio E, Israel S, Staelens M, Tankel G, Shankar K, Tuszyński JA. The distinguishing electrical properties of cancer cells. Phys Life Rev 2022; 43:139-188. [PMID: 36265200 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, medical research has been primarily focused on the inherited aspect of cancers, despite the reality that only 5-10% of tumours discovered are derived from genetic causes. Cancer is a broad term, and therefore it is inaccurate to address it as a purely genetic disease. Understanding cancer cells' behaviour is the first step in countering them. Behind the scenes, there is a complicated network of environmental factors, DNA errors, metabolic shifts, and electrostatic alterations that build over time and lead to the illness's development. This latter aspect has been analyzed in previous studies, but how the different electrical changes integrate and affect each other is rarely examined. Every cell in the human body possesses electrical properties that are essential for proper behaviour both within and outside of the cell itself. It is not yet clear whether these changes correlate with cell mutation in cancer cells, or only with their subsequent development. Either way, these aspects merit further investigation, especially with regards to their causes and consequences. Trying to block changes at various levels of occurrence or assisting in their prevention could be the key to stopping cells from becoming cancerous. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the current knowledge regarding the electrical landscape of cells is much needed. We review four essential electrical characteristics of cells, providing a deep understanding of the electrostatic changes in cancer cells compared to their normal counterparts. In particular, we provide an overview of intracellular and extracellular pH modifications, differences in ionic concentrations in the cytoplasm, transmembrane potential variations, and changes within mitochondria. New therapies targeting or exploiting the electrical properties of cells are developed and tested every year, such as pH-dependent carriers and tumour-treating fields. A brief section regarding the state-of-the-art of these therapies can be found at the end of this review. Finally, we highlight how these alterations integrate and potentially yield indications of cells' malignancy or metastatic index.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Di Gregorio
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Autem Therapeutics, 35 South Main Street, Hanover, 03755, NH, USA
| | - Simone Israel
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Autem Therapeutics, 35 South Main Street, Hanover, 03755, NH, USA
| | - Michael Staelens
- Department of Physics, University of Alberta, 11335 Saskatchewan Drive NW, Edmonton, T6G 2E1, AB, Canada
| | - Gabriella Tankel
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, L8S 4K1, ON, Canada
| | - Karthik Shankar
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 116 Street NW, Edmonton, T6G 1H9, AB, Canada
| | - Jack A Tuszyński
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Aerospaziale (DIMEAS), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, 10129, TO, Italy; Department of Physics, University of Alberta, 11335 Saskatchewan Drive NW, Edmonton, T6G 2E1, AB, Canada; Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, T6G 1Z2, AB, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Gupta S, Kumar A, Tamuli R. CRZ1 transcription factor is involved in cell survival, stress tolerance, and virulence in fungi. J Biosci 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12038-022-00294-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
31
|
Ancuceanu R, Hovaneț MV, Cojocaru-Toma M, Anghel AI, Dinu M. Potential Antifungal Targets for Aspergillus sp. from the Calcineurin and Heat Shock Protein Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012543. [PMID: 36293395 PMCID: PMC9603945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species, especially A. fumigatus, and to a lesser extent others (A. flavus, A. niger, A. terreus), although rarely pathogenic to healthy humans, can be very aggressive to immunocompromised patients (they are opportunistic pathogens). Although survival rates for such infections have improved in recent decades following the introduction of azole derivatives, they remain a clinical challenge. The fact that current antifungals act as fungistatic rather than fungicide, that they have limited safety, and that resistance is becoming increasingly common make the need for new, more effective, and safer therapies to become more acute. Over the last decades, knowledge about the molecular biology of A. fumigatus and other Aspergillus species, and particularly of calcineurin, Hsp90, and their signaling pathway proteins, has progressed remarkably. Although calcineurin has attracted much interest, its adverse effects, particularly its immunosuppressive effects, make it less attractive than it might at first appear. The situation is not very different for Hsp90. Other proteins from their signaling pathways, such as protein kinases phosphorylating the four SPRR serine residues, CrzA, rcnA, pmcA-pmcC (particularly pmcC), rfeF, BAR adapter protein(s), the phkB histidine kinase, sskB MAP kinase kinase, zfpA, htfA, ctfA, SwoH (nucleoside diphosphate kinase), CchA, MidA, FKBP12, the K27 lysine position from Hsp90, PkcA, MpkA, RlmA, brlA, abaA, wetA, other heat shock proteins (Hsp70, Hsp40, Hsp12) currently appear promising and deserve further investigation as potential targets for antifungal drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Ancuceanu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (M.V.H.)
| | - Marilena Viorica Hovaneț
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (M.V.H.)
| | - Maria Cojocaru-Toma
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2025 Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Adriana-Iuliana Anghel
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Dinu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Yadav Y, Dey CS. Ser/Thr phosphatases: One of the key regulators of insulin signaling. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:905-917. [PMID: 35697962 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09727-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation is an important post-translational modification that regulates several cellular processes including insulin signaling. The evidences so far have already portrayed the importance of balanced actions of kinases and phosphatases in regulating the insulin signaling cascade. Therefore, elucidating the role of both kinases and phosphatases are equally important. Unfortunately, the role of phosphatases is less studied as compared to kinases. Since brain responds to insulin and insulin signaling is reported to be crucial for many neuronal processes, it is important to understand the role of neuronal insulin signaling regulators. Ser/Thr phosphatases seem to play significant roles in regulating neuronal insulin signaling. Therefore, in this review, we discussed the involvement of Ser/Thr phosphatases in regulating insulin signaling and insulin resistance in neuronal system at the backdrop of the same phosphatases in peripheral insulin sensitive tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamini Yadav
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Chinmoy Sankar Dey
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zhen H, Zheng M, Geng H, Song Q, Gao L, Yuan Z, Deng H, Pang Q, Zhao B. The feedback loop between calcineurin, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, and nuclear factor of activated T-cells regulates the number of GABAergic neurons during planarian head regeneration. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:988803. [PMID: 36172263 PMCID: PMC9510629 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.988803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in the excitatory/inhibitory balance of brain neural circuits are the main source of encephalopathy during neurodevelopment. Changes in the function of neural circuits can lead to depolarization or repeat rhythmic firing of neurons in a manner similar to epilepsy. GABAergic neurons are inhibitory neurons found in all the main domains of the CNS. Previous studies suggested that DjCamkII and DjCaln play a crucial role in the regulation of GABAergic neurons during planarian regeneration. However, the mechanisms behind the regeneration of GABAergic neurons have not been fully explained. Herein, we demonstrated that DjCamkII and DjCaln were mutual negative regulation during planarian head regeneration. DjNFAT exerted feedback positive regulation on both DjCaln and DjCamkII. Whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed that DjNFAT was predominantly expressed in the pharynx and parenchymal cells in intact planarian. Interestingly, during planarian head regeneration, DjNFAT was predominantly located in the newborn brain. Down-regulation of DjNFAT led to regeneration defects in the brain including regenerative brain became small and the lateral nerves cannot be regenerated completely, and a decreasein the number of GABAergic neurons during planarian head regeneration. These findings suggest that the feedback loop between DjCaln, DjCamkII, and DjNFAT is crucial for the formation of GABAergic neurons during planarian head regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhen
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Mingyue Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huazhi Geng
- Zibo Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Qian Song
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Lili Gao
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Zuoqing Yuan
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Hongkuan Deng
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Qiuxiang Pang
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
| | - Bosheng Zhao
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Shandong University of Technology, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Bosheng Zhao,
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chen L, Song M, Yao C. Calcineurin in development and disease. Genes Dis 2022; 9:915-927. [PMID: 35685477 PMCID: PMC9170610 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin (CaN) is a unique calcium (Ca2+) and calmodulin (CaM)-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase that becomes activated in the presence of increased intracellular Ca2+ level. CaN then functions to dephosphorylate target substrates including various transcription factors, receptors, and channels. Once activated, the CaN signaling pathway participates in the development of multiple organs as well as the onset and progression of various diseases via regulation of different cellular processes. Here, we review current literature regarding the structural and functional properties of CaN, highlighting its crucial role in the development and pathogenesis of immune system disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, kidney disease, cardiomyopathy and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- Department of Blood Transfusion, First Affiliated Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Min Song
- Department of Blood Transfusion, First Affiliated Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Chunyan Yao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, First Affiliated Hospital, The Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hoy MJ, Park E, Lee H, Lim WY, Cole DC, DeBouver ND, Bobay BG, Pierce PG, Fox D, Ciofani M, Juvvadi PR, Steinbach W, Hong J, Heitman J. Structure-Guided Synthesis of FK506 and FK520 Analogs with Increased Selectivity Exhibit In Vivo Therapeutic Efficacy against Cryptococcus. mBio 2022; 13:e0104922. [PMID: 35604094 PMCID: PMC9239059 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01049-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin is an essential virulence factor that is conserved across human fungal pathogens, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Candida albicans. Although an excellent target for antifungal drug development, the serine-threonine phosphatase activity of calcineurin is conserved in mammals, and inhibition of this activity results in immunosuppression. FK506 (tacrolimus) is a naturally produced macrocyclic compound that inhibits calcineurin by binding to the immunophilin FKBP12. Previously, our fungal calcineurin-FK506-FKBP12 structure-based approaches identified a nonconserved region of FKBP12 that can be exploited for fungus-specific targeting. These studies led to the design of an FK506 analog, APX879, modified at the C-22 position, which was less immunosuppressive yet maintained antifungal activity. We now report high-resolution protein crystal structures of fungal FKBP12 and a human truncated calcineurin-FKBP12 bound to a natural FK506 analog, FK520 (ascomycin). Based on information from these structures and the success of APX879, we synthesized and screened a novel panel of C-22-modified compounds derived from both FK506 and FK520. One compound, JH-FK-05, demonstrates broad-spectrum antifungal activity in vitro and is nonimmunosuppressive in vivo. In murine models of pulmonary and disseminated C. neoformans infection, JH-FK-05 treatment significantly reduced fungal burden and extended animal survival alone and in combination with fluconazole. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulations performed with JH-FK-05 binding to fungal and human FKBP12 identified additional residues outside the C-22 and C-21 positions that could be modified to generate novel FK506 analogs with improved antifungal activity. IMPORTANCE Due to rising rates of antifungal drug resistance and a limited armamentarium of antifungal treatments, there is a paramount need for novel antifungal drugs to treat systemic fungal infections. Calcineurin has been established as an essential and conserved virulence factor in several fungi, making it an attractive antifungal target. However, due to the immunosuppressive action of calcineurin inhibitors, they have not been successfully utilized clinically for antifungal treatment in humans. Recent availability of crystal structures of fungal calcineurin-bound inhibitor complexes has enabled the structure-guided design of FK506 analogs and led to a breakthrough in the development of a compound with increased fungal specificity. The development of a calcineurin inhibitor with reduced immunosuppressive activity and maintained therapeutic antifungal activity would add a significant tool to the treatment options for these invasive fungal infections with exceedingly high rates of mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Hoy
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eunchong Park
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hyunji Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Won Young Lim
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - D. Christopher Cole
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas D. DeBouver
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Phillip G. Pierce
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Fox
- UCB Biosciences, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maria Ciofani
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Praveen R. Juvvadi
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - William Steinbach
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jiyong Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hidden Multivalency in Phosphatase Recruitment by a Disordered AKAP Scaffold. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167682. [PMID: 35697294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Disordered scaffold proteins provide multivalent landing pads that, via a series of embedded Short Linear Motifs (SLiMs), bring together the components of a complex to orchestrate precise spatial and temporal regulation of cellular processes. One such protein is AKAP5 (previously AKAP79), which contains SLiMs that anchor PKA and Calcineurin, and recruit substrate (the TRPV1 receptor). Calcineurin is anchored to AKAP5 by a well-characterised PxIxIT SLiM. Here we show, using a combination of biochemical and biophysical approaches, that the Calcineurin PxIxIT-binding groove also recognises several hitherto unknown lower-affinity SLiMs in addition to the PxIxIT motif. We demonstrate that the assembly is in reality a complex system with conserved SLiMs spanning a wide affinity range. The capture is analogous to that seen for many DNA-binding proteins that have a weak non-specific affinity for DNA outside the canonical binding site, but different in that it involves (i) two proteins, and (ii) hydrophobic rather than electrostatic interactions. It is also compatible with the requirement for both stable anchoring of the enzyme and responsive downstream signalling. We conclude that the AKAP5 C-terminus is enriched in lower-affinity/mini-SLiMs that, together with the canonical SLiM, maintain a structurally disordered but tightly regulated signalosome.
Collapse
|
37
|
Spolaor S, Rovetta M, Nobile MS, Cazzaniga P, Tisi R, Besozzi D. Modeling Calcium Signaling in S. cerevisiae Highlights the Role and Regulation of the Calmodulin-Calcineurin Pathway in Response to Hypotonic Shock. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:856030. [PMID: 35664674 PMCID: PMC9158465 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.856030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium homeostasis and signaling processes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as well as in any eukaryotic organism, depend on various transporters and channels located on both the plasma and intracellular membranes. The activity of these proteins is regulated by a number of feedback mechanisms that act through the calmodulin-calcineurin pathway. When exposed to hypotonic shock (HTS), yeast cells respond with an increased cytosolic calcium transient, which seems to be conditioned by the opening of stretch-activated channels. To better understand the role of each channel and transporter involved in the generation and recovery of the calcium transient—and of their feedback regulations—we defined and analyzed a mathematical model of the calcium signaling response to HTS in yeast cells. The model was validated by comparing the simulation outcomes with calcium concentration variations before and during the HTS response, which were observed experimentally in both wild-type and mutant strains. Our results show that calcium normally enters the cell through the High Affinity Calcium influx System and mechanosensitive channels. The increase of the plasma membrane tension, caused by HTS, boosts the opening probability of mechanosensitive channels. This event causes a sudden calcium pulse that is rapidly dissipated by the activity of the vacuolar transporter Pmc1. According to model simulations, the role of another vacuolar transporter, Vcx1, is instead marginal, unless calcineurin is inhibited or removed. Our results also suggest that the mechanosensitive channels are subject to a calcium-dependent feedback inhibition, possibly involving calmodulin. Noteworthy, the model predictions are in accordance with literature results concerning some aspects of calcium homeostasis and signaling that were not specifically addressed within the model itself, suggesting that it actually depicts all the main cellular components and interactions that constitute the HTS calcium pathway, and thus can correctly reproduce the shaping of the calcium signature by calmodulin- and calcineurin-dependent complex regulations. The model predictions also allowed to provide an interpretation of different regulatory schemes involved in calcium handling in both wild-type and mutants yeast strains. The model could be easily extended to represent different calcium signals in other eukaryotic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Spolaor
- Department of Informatics, Systems and Communication, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Rovetta
- Department of Informatics, Systems and Communication, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco S. Nobile
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice, Italy
- Bicocca Bioinformatics, Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre—B4, Milan, Italy
- SYSBIO/ISBE.IT Centre of Systems Biology, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Cazzaniga
- Bicocca Bioinformatics, Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre—B4, Milan, Italy
- SYSBIO/ISBE.IT Centre of Systems Biology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Renata Tisi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Renata Tisi, ; Daniela Besozzi,
| | - Daniela Besozzi
- Department of Informatics, Systems and Communication, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Bicocca Bioinformatics, Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre—B4, Milan, Italy
- SYSBIO/ISBE.IT Centre of Systems Biology, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Renata Tisi, ; Daniela Besozzi,
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
The optimized core peptide derived from CABIN1 efficiently inhibits calcineurin-mediated T-cell activation. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:613-625. [PMID: 35550603 PMCID: PMC9166766 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00772-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The C-terminal fragment of CABIN1 interacts with calcineurin and represses the transcriptional activity of the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). However, the specific sequences and mechanisms through which it binds to calcineurin are unclear. This study determined that decameric peptide (CABIN1 residues 2146–2155) is minimally required for binding to calcineurin. This peptide contains a unique “PPTP” C-terminal sequence and a “PxIxIT” N-terminal motif. Furthermore, p38MAPK phosphorylated the threonine residue of the “PPTP” sequence under physiological conditions, dramatically enhancing the peptide’s binding affinity to calcineurin. Therefore, the CABIN1 peptide inhibited the calcineurin-NFAT pathway and the activation of T cells more efficiently than the VIVIT peptide without affecting calcineurin’s phosphatase activity. The CABIN1 peptide could thus be a more potent calcineurin inhibitor and provide therapeutic opportunities for various diseases caused by the calcineurin-NFAT pathway. A peptide with therapeutic potential binds strongly to the cellular enzyme calcineurin and may prove valuable in anti-cancer and autoimmune disease treatments. Many cancers and autoimmune diseases are linked with overactivation of a key calcineurin-related pathway which is heavily involved in T cell activation. This pathway has long been a therapeutic target, but existing drugs show problems with stability and delivery, and can cause serious side effects. One known inhibitor of calcineurin is the protein CABIN1, but precisely how well it binds and how useful it may be is unclear. Now, Hong-Duk Youn at Seoul National University College of Medicine, South Korea, and co-workers have identified how one specific peptide from CABIN1 binds strongly to calcineurin. The CABIN1 peptide was stable and displayed greater efficiency at inhibiting calcineurin than another recently identified peptide candidate.
Collapse
|
39
|
Heat shock proteins and the calcineurin-crz1 signaling regulate stress responses in fungi. Arch Microbiol 2022; 204:240. [PMID: 35377020 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-022-02833-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The heat shock proteins (Hsps) act as a molecular chaperone to stabilize client proteins involved in various cell functions in fungi. Hsps are classified into different families such as HSP90, HSP70, HSP60, HSP40, and small HSPs (sHsps). Hsp90, a well-studied member of the Hsp family proteins, plays a role in growth, cell survival, and pathogenicity in fungi. Hsp70 and sHsps are involved in the development, tolerance to stress conditions, and drug resistance in fungi. Hsp60 is a mitochondrial chaperone, and Hsp40 regulates fungal ATPase machinery. In this review, we describe the cell functions, regulation, and the molecular link of the Hsps with the calcineurin-crz1 calcium signaling pathway for their role in cell survival, growth, virulence, and drug resistance in fungi and related organisms.
Collapse
|
40
|
Decoding the Phosphatase Code: Regulation of Cell Proliferation by Calcineurin. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031122. [PMID: 35163061 PMCID: PMC8835043 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin, a calcium-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase, integrates the alterations in intracellular calcium levels into downstream signaling pathways by regulating the phosphorylation states of several targets. Intracellular Ca2+ is essential for normal cellular physiology and cell cycle progression at certain critical stages of the cell cycle. Recently, it was reported that calcineurin is activated in a variety of cancers. Given that abnormalities in calcineurin signaling can lead to malignant growth and cancer, the calcineurin signaling pathway could be a potential target for cancer treatment. For example, NFAT, a typical substrate of calcineurin, activates the genes that promote cell proliferation. Furthermore, cyclin D1 and estrogen receptors are dephosphorylated and stabilized by calcineurin, leading to cell proliferation. In this review, we focus on the cell proliferative functions and regulatory mechanisms of calcineurin and summarize the various substrates of calcineurin. We also describe recent advances regarding dysregulation of the calcineurin activity in cancer cells. We hope that this review will provide new insights into the potential role of calcineurin in cancer development.
Collapse
|
41
|
Kliche J, Ivarsson Y. Orchestrating serine/threonine phosphorylation and elucidating downstream effects by short linear motifs. Biochem J 2022; 479:1-22. [PMID: 34989786 PMCID: PMC8786283 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cellular function is based on protein-protein interactions. A large proportion of these interactions involves the binding of short linear motifs (SLiMs) by folded globular domains. These interactions are regulated by post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, that create and break motif binding sites or tune the affinity of the interactions. In addition, motif-based interactions are involved in targeting serine/threonine kinases and phosphatases to their substrate and contribute to the specificity of the enzymatic actions regulating which sites are phosphorylated. Here, we review how SLiM-based interactions assist in determining the specificity of serine/threonine kinases and phosphatases, and how phosphorylation, in turn, affects motif-based interactions. We provide examples of SLiM-based interactions that are turned on/off, or are tuned by serine/threonine phosphorylation and exemplify how this affects SLiM-based protein complex formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kliche
- Department of Chemistry – BMC, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 576 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ylva Ivarsson
- Department of Chemistry – BMC, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Box 576 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Wang P, Li W, Yang Y, Cheng N, Zhang Y, Zhang N, Yin Y, Tong L, Li Z, Luo J. A polypeptide inhibitor of calcineurin blocks the calcineurin-NFAT signalling pathway in vivo and in vitro. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 37:202-210. [PMID: 34894973 PMCID: PMC8667882 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1998024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin (CN) controls the immune response by regulating nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). Inhibition of CN function is an effective treatment for immune diseases. The PVIVIT peptide is an artificial peptide based on the NFAT-PxIxIT motif, which exhibits stronger binding to CN. A bioactive peptide (named pep4) that inhibits the CN/NFAT interaction was designed. Pep4 contains a segment of A238L as the linker and the LxVP motif and PVIVIT motif as CN binding sites. Pep4 has strong binding capacity to CN and inhibits CN activity competitively. 11-arginine-modified pep4 (11 R-pep4) inhibits the nuclear translocation of NFAT and reduces the expression of IL-2. 11 R-pep4 improves the pathological characteristics of asthmatic mice to a certain extent. The above results indicated that pep4 is a high-affinity CN inhibitor. These findings will contribute to the discovery of new CN inhibitors and promising immunosuppressive drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenying Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yumeng Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchen Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanxia Yin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Tong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhimei Li
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gene Engineering and Biotechnology of Beijing Key Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang J, Zhang L, Nie J, Lin Y, Li Y, Xu W, Zhao JY, Zhao SM, Wang C. Calcineurin inactivation inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase complex activity and induces the Warburg effect. Oncogene 2021; 40:6692-6702. [PMID: 34667275 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Calcineurin is a calcium- and calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase that connects the Ca2+-dependent signalling to multiple cellular responses. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) have been widely used to suppress immune response in allograft patients. However, CNIs significantly increase cancer incidence in transplant recipients compared with the general population. Accumulating evidence suggests that CNIs may promote the malignant transformation of cancer cells in addition to its role in immunosuppression, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we show that calcineurin interacts with pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC), a mitochondrial gatekeeper enzyme that connects two key metabolic pathways of cells, glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Mitochondrial-localized calcineurin dephosphorylates PDHA1 at Ser232, Ser293 and Ser300, and thus enhances PDC enzymatic activity, remodels cellular glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, and suppresses cancer cell proliferation. Hypoxia attenuates mitochondrial translocation of calcineurin to promote PDC inactivation. Moreover, CNIs promote metabolic remodelling and the Warburg effect by blocking calcineurin-mediated PDC activation in cancer cells. Our findings indicate that calcineurin is a critical regulator of mitochondrial metabolism and suggest that CNIs may promote tumorigenesis through inhibition of the calcineurin-PDC pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianong Zhang
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Ji Nie
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yao Li
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jian-Yuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Shi-Min Zhao
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Chenji Wang
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC (SIPPR, IRD), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Leong E, Pang Z, Stadnyk AW, Lin TJ. Calcineurin Aα Contributes to IgE-Dependent Mast-Cell Mediator Secretion in Allergic Inflammation. J Innate Immun 2021; 14:320-334. [PMID: 34839285 PMCID: PMC9274814 DOI: 10.1159/000520040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are key mediators of allergic inflammation through the activation of cross-linked immunoglobulin E (IgE) bound to the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcϵRI) on the cell surface, leading to the release of biologically potent mediators, either from preformed granules or newly synthesized. Pharmacological inhibitors have been developed to target a key signaling protein phosphatase in this pathway, calcineurin, yet there is a lack of genetic and definitive evidence for the various isoforms of calcineurin subunits in FcϵRI-mediated responses. In this study, we hypothesized that deficiency in the calcineurin Aα isoform will result in a decreased allergic immune response by the MCs. In a model of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, there was a reduction in vascular permeability in MC-deficient mouse tissues reconstituted with calcineurin subunit A (CnAα) gene-knockout (CnAα<sup>−/−</sup>) MCs, and in vitro experiments identified a significant reduction in release of preformed mediators from granules. Furthermore, released levels of de novo synthesized cytokines were reduced upon FcϵRI activation of CnAα<sup>−/−</sup> MCs in vitro. Characterizing the mechanisms associated with this deficit response, we found a significant impairment of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B cell phosphorylation and impaired nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cell inhibitor alpha (NF-κB) activation. Thus, we concluded that CnAα contributes to the release of preformed mediators and newly synthesized mediators from FcϵRI-mediated activation of MCs, and this regulation includes NF-κB signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Leong
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada,
| | - Zheng Pang
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Andrew W Stadnyk
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Isaac Walton Killam Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Tong-Jun Lin
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Isaac Walton Killam Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Nascimento Da Conceicao V, Sun Y, Ramachandran K, Chauhan A, Raveendran A, Venkatesan M, DeKumar B, Maity S, Vishnu N, Kotsakis GA, Worley PF, Gill DL, Mishra BB, Madesh M, Singh BB. Resolving macrophage polarization through distinct Ca 2+ entry channel that maintains intracellular signaling and mitochondrial bioenergetics. iScience 2021; 24:103339. [PMID: 34816101 PMCID: PMC8591423 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transformation of naive macrophages into classically (M1) or alternatively (M2) activated macrophages regulates the inflammatory response. Here, we identified that distinct Ca2+ entry channels determine the IFNγ-induced M1 or IL-4-induced M2 transition. Naive or M2 macrophages exhibit a robust Ca2+ entry that was dependent on Orai1 channels, whereas the M1 phenotype showed a non-selective TRPC1 current. Blockade of Ca2+ entry suppresses pNF-κB/pJNK/STAT1 or STAT6 signaling events and consequently lowers cytokine production that is essential for M1 or M2 functions. Of importance, LPS stimulation shifted M2 cells from Orai1 toward TRPC1-mediated Ca2+ entry and TRPC1-/- mice exhibited transcriptional changes that suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, Orai1-/- macrophages showed a decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines and exhibited a suppression of mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate and inhibited mitochondrial shape transition specifically in the M2 cells. Finally, alterations in TRPC1 or Orai1 expression determine macrophage polarization suggesting a distinct role of Ca2+ channels in modulating macrophage transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuyang Sun
- Department of Periodontics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Karthik Ramachandran
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Center for Precision Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Arun Chauhan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Amritha Raveendran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Manigandan Venkatesan
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Center for Precision Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Bony DeKumar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Soumya Maity
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Center for Precision Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Neelanjan Vishnu
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Center for Precision Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - George A. Kotsakis
- Department of Periodontics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Paul F. Worley
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Donald L. Gill
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Penn State Hershey College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Bibhuti B. Mishra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Muniswamy Madesh
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Center for Precision Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Brij B. Singh
- Department of Periodontics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Calcineurin regulates the stability and activity of estrogen receptor α. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2114258118. [PMID: 34711683 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2114258118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor α (ER-α) mediates estrogen-dependent cancer progression and is expressed in most breast cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of the cellular abundance and activity of ER-α remain unclear. We here show that the protein phosphatase calcineurin regulates both ER-α stability and activity in human breast cancer cells. Calcineurin depletion or inhibition down-regulated the abundance of ER-α by promoting its polyubiquitination and degradation. Calcineurin inhibition also promoted the binding of ER-α to the E3 ubiquitin ligase E6AP, and calcineurin mediated the dephosphorylation of ER-α at Ser294 in vitro. Moreover, the ER-α (S294A) mutant was more stable and activated the expression of ER-α target genes to a greater extent compared with the wild-type protein, whereas the extents of its interaction with E6AP and polyubiquitination were attenuated. These results suggest that the phosphorylation of ER-α at Ser294 promotes its binding to E6AP and consequent degradation. Calcineurin was also found to be required for the phosphorylation of ER-α at Ser118 by mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 and the consequent activation of ER-α in response to β-estradiol treatment. Our study thus indicates that calcineurin controls both the stability and activity of ER-α by regulating its phosphorylation at Ser294 and Ser118 Finally, the expression of the calcineurin A-α gene (PPP3CA) was associated with poor prognosis in ER-α-positive breast cancer patients treated with tamoxifen or other endocrine therapeutic agents. Calcineurin is thus a promising target for the development of therapies for ER-α-positive breast cancer.
Collapse
|
47
|
Chaklader M, Rothermel BA. Calcineurin in the heart: New horizons for an old friend. Cell Signal 2021; 87:110134. [PMID: 34454008 PMCID: PMC8908812 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Calcineurin, also known as PP2B or PPP3, is a member of the PPP family of protein phosphatases that also includes PP1 and PP2A. Together these three phosphatases carryout the majority of dephosphorylation events in the heart. Calcineurin is distinct in that it is activated by the binding of calcium/calmodulin (Ca2+/CaM) and therefore acts as a node for integrating Ca2+ signals with changes in phosphorylation, two fundamental intracellular signaling cascades. In the heart, calcineurin is primarily thought of in the context of pathological cardiac remodeling, acting through the Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cell (NFAT) family of transcription factors. However, calcineurin activity is also essential for normal heart development and homeostasis in the adult heart. Furthermore, it is clear that NFAT-driven changes in transcription are not the only relevant processes initiated by calcineurin in the setting of pathological remodeling. There is a growing appreciation for the diversity of calcineurin substrates that can impact cardiac function as well as the diversity of mechanisms for targeting calcineurin to specific sub-cellular domains in cardiomyocytes and other cardiac cell types. Here, we will review the basics of calcineurin structure, regulation, and function in the context of cardiac biology. Particular attention will be given to: the development of improved tools to identify and validate new calcineurin substrates; recent studies identifying new calcineurin isoforms with unique properties and targeting mechanisms; and the role of calcineurin in cardiac development and regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malay Chaklader
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Division of Cardiology) and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Beverly A Rothermel
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Division of Cardiology) and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Brauer BL, Wiredu K, Mitchell S, Moorhead GB, Gerber SA, Kettenbach AN. Affinity-based profiling of endogenous phosphoprotein phosphatases by mass spectrometry. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:4919-4943. [PMID: 34518704 PMCID: PMC8822503 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00604-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Phosphoprotein phosphatases (PPPs) execute >90% of serine/threonine dephosphorylation in cells and tissues. While the role of PPPs in cell biology and diseases such as cancer, cardiac hypertrophy and Alzheimer's disease is well established, the molecular mechanisms governing and governed by PPPs still await discovery. Here we describe a chemical proteomic strategy, phosphatase inhibitor beads and mass spectrometry (PIB-MS), that enables the identification and quantification of PPPs and their posttranslational modifications in as little as 12 h. Using a specific but nonselective PPP inhibitor immobilized on beads, PIB-MS enables the efficient affinity-capture, identification and quantification of endogenous PPPs and associated proteins ('PPPome') from cells and tissues. PIB-MS captures functional, endogenous PPP subunit interactions and enables discovery of new binding partners. It performs PPP enrichment without exogenous expression of tagged proteins or specific antibodies. Because PPPs are among the most conserved proteins across evolution, PIB-MS can be employed in any cell line, tissue or organism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brooke L Brauer
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Kwame Wiredu
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Sierra Mitchell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Greg B Moorhead
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Scott A Gerber
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Arminja N Kettenbach
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA.
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Structural Insights into Protein Regulation by Phosphorylation and Substrate Recognition of Protein Kinases/Phosphatases. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11090957. [PMID: 34575106 PMCID: PMC8467178 DOI: 10.3390/life11090957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation is one of the most widely observed and important post-translational modification (PTM) processes. Protein phosphorylation is regulated by protein kinases, each of which covalently attaches a phosphate group to an amino acid side chain on a serine (Ser), threonine (Thr), or tyrosine (Tyr) residue of a protein, and by protein phosphatases, each of which, conversely, removes a phosphate group from a phosphoprotein. These reversible enzyme activities provide a regulatory mechanism by activating or deactivating many diverse functions of proteins in various cellular processes. In this review, their structures and substrate recognition are described and summarized, focusing on Ser/Thr protein kinases and protein Ser/Thr phosphatases, and the regulation of protein structures by phosphorylation. The studies reviewed here and the resulting information could contribute to further structural, biochemical, and combined studies on the mechanisms of protein phosphorylation and to drug discovery approaches targeting protein kinases or protein phosphatases.
Collapse
|
50
|
Hsu IS, Strome B, Lash E, Robbins N, Cowen LE, Moses AM. A functionally divergent intrinsically disordered region underlying the conservation of stochastic signaling. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009629. [PMID: 34506483 PMCID: PMC8457507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Stochastic signaling dynamics expand living cells' information processing capabilities. An increasing number of studies report that regulators encode information in their pulsatile dynamics. The evolutionary mechanisms that lead to complex signaling dynamics remain uncharacterized, perhaps because key interactions of signaling proteins are encoded in intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), whose evolution is difficult to analyze. Here we focused on the IDR that controls the stochastic pulsing dynamics of Crz1, a transcription factor in fungi downstream of the widely conserved calcium signaling pathway. We find that Crz1 IDRs from anciently diverged fungi can all respond transiently to calcium stress; however, only Crz1 IDRs from the Saccharomyces clade support pulsatility, encode extra information, and rescue fitness in competition assays, while the Crz1 IDRs from distantly related fungi do none of the three. On the other hand, we find that Crz1 pulsing is conserved in the distantly related fungi, consistent with the evolutionary model of stabilizing selection on the signaling phenotype. Further, we show that a calcineurin docking site in a specific part of the IDRs appears to be sufficient for pulsing and show evidence for a beneficial increase in the relative calcineurin affinity of this docking site. We propose that evolutionary flexibility of functionally divergent IDRs underlies the conservation of stochastic signaling by stabilizing selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian S. Hsu
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bob Strome
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Emma Lash
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alan M. Moses
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|