The translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP)

The TCTP is essential for ovarian development and oviposition of Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides

Tick infestations transmit various infectious agents and result in significant socioeconomic consequences. Currently, the primary focus of tick control efforts is identifying potential targets for immune intervention. In a previous study, we identified a highly conserved protein abundant in tick haemolymph extracellular vesicles (EVs) known as translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP). We have found that native TCTP is present in various tissues of the Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides tick, including salivary glands, midgut, ovary, and fat body. Notably, TCTP is particularly abundant in the tick ovary and its levels increase progressively from the blood-feeding stage to engorgement. When the TCTP gene was knocked down by RNAi, there was a noticeable delay in ovarian development, and the reproductive performance, in terms of egg quantity and survival, was also hindered. Our investigations have revealed that the observed effects in ovary and eggs in dsRNA-treated ticks are not attributable to cell death mechanisms like apoptosis and autophagy but rather to the reduction in the expression of vitellogenin (Vg1, Vg2, and Vg3) and ferritin (ferritin 1 and ferritin 2) proteins crucial for ovarian development and embryo survival in ticks. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis and structural comparisons of RhTCTP and its orthologues across various tick species, vertebrate hosts, and humans have shown that TCTP is conserved in ticks but differs significantly between ticks and their hosts, particularly in the TCTP_1 and TCTP_2 domains. Overall, TCTP plays a vital role in tick reproductive development and presents itself as a potential target for tick control in both humans and animals.

Oxidative stress, DNA damage, and gene expression in earthworms (Eisenia fetida) exposure to ethiprole

To evaluate the potential ecotoxicity of ethiprole and early warning to earthworms (Eisenia fetida), different concentrations (0 mg·kg-1, 416 mg·kg-1, 625 mg·kg-1, and 1000 mg·kg-1) of ethiprole were added to artificial soil. The key bioindicators were measured and screened at 3 days, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, and 28 days. The results show that the activity of catalase (CAT) was inhibited for all treatments during the whole exposure period. Besides, the olive tail moment (OTM) value increased gradually as the concentration got higher, which exhibited a dose-time-dependent relationship. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) gene reached the maximum on the 7th day. Mitochondrial large ribosomal RNA (l-rRNA) subunit gene was always in a downregulated state as the concentration increased. Our results show that different concentrations of ethiprole induced certain oxidative stress, DNA damage, and genotoxicity in earthworms. The CAT activity, OTM, and SOD gene could be the most sensitive biomarkers to monitor the toxicity of ethiprole in the soil.

Interaction of Whitefly Effector G4 with Tomato Proteins Impacts Whitefly Performance

The phloem-feeding insect Bemisia tabaci is an important pest, responsible for the transmission of several crop-threatening virus species. While feeding, the insect secretes a cocktail of effectors to modulate plant defense responses. Here, we present a set of proteins identified in an artificial diet on which B. tabaci was salivating. We subsequently studied whether these candidate effectors can play a role in plant immune suppression. Effector G4 was the most robust suppressor of an induced- reactive oxygen species (ROS) response in Nicotiana benthamiana. In addition, G4 was able to suppress ROS production in Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Capsicum annuum (pepper). G4 localized predominantly in the endoplasmic reticulum in N. benthamiana leaves and colocalized with two identified target proteins in tomato: REF-like stress related protein 1 (RSP1) and meloidogyne-induced giant cell protein DB141 (MIPDB141). Silencing of MIPDB141 in tomato reduced whitefly fecundity up to 40%, demonstrating that the protein is involved in susceptibility to B. tabaci. Together, our data demonstrate that effector G4 impairs tomato immunity to whiteflies by interfering with ROS production and via an interaction with tomato susceptibility protein MIPDB141. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.

Understanding the Multi-Functional Role of TCTP in the Regeneration Process of Earthworm, Perionyx excavatus

BACKGROUND

Regeneration is a highly complex process that requires the coordination of numerous molecular events, and identifying the key ruler that governs is important to investigate. While it has been shown that TCTP is a multi-functional protein that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, anti-apoptosis, stem cell maintenance, and immune responses, but only a few studies associated to regeneration have been reported. To investigate the multi-functional role of TCTP in regeneration, the earthworm Perionyx excavatus was chosen.

METHODS

Through pharmacological suppression of TCTP, amputation, histology, molecular docking, and western blotting, the multi-function role of TCTP involved in regeneration is revealed.

RESULTS

Amputational studies show that P. excavatus is a clitellum-independent regenerating earthworm resulting in two functional worms upon amputation. Arresting cell cycle at the G1/S boundary using 2 mM Thymidine confirms that P. excavatus execute both epimorphosis and morphallaxis regeneration mode. The pharmacological suppression of TCTP using buclizine results in regeneration suppression. Following the combinatorial injection of 2 mM Thymidine and buclizine, the earthworm regeneration is completely blocked, which suggests a critical functional role of TCTP in morphallaxis. The pharmacological inhibition of TCTP also suppresses the key proteins involved in regeneration: Wnt3a (stem cell marker), PCNA (cell proliferation) and YAP1 (Hippo signalling) but augments the expression of cellular stress protein p53.

CONCLUSION

The collective results indicate that TCTP synchronously is involved in the process of stem cell activation, cell proliferation, morphallaxis, and organ development in the regeneration event.

Targeting the translationally controlled tumor protein by a monoclonal antibody improves allergic airway inflammation in mice

Secretion of translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) was found in body fluids during the late phase of allergic reactions, implicating TCTP in allergic diseases. Furthermore, blocking TCTP has been shown to be helpful in treating asthma and allergies in animal models. The objectives of this study were to produce anti-TCTP monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), test their ability to inhibit the cytokine-like function of dimeric TCTP (dTCTP) in vitro and to assess their therapeutic effects in a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway inflammation. We first verified the inhibitory effects of 4 anti-TCTP mAbs on dTCTP-induced secretion of IL-8 in BEAS-2B cells. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of anti-TCTP mAbs on allergic airway inflammation, we treated OVA-sensitized mice with anti-TCTP mAbs before OVA challenge. The changes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cells, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels in both BALF and lung homogenates, plasma levels of OVA-specific IgE, and lung tissues were analyzed. We found that JEW-M449 anti-TCTP mAb bound to the flexible loop of TCTP and significantly inhibited dTCTP-induced IL-8 release, making it the most effective inhibitor in our study. We also found that treatment with JEW-M449 significantly reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells and suppressed the OVA-induced upregulation of type 2 cytokines in both BALF and lung homogenates in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, JEW-M449 significantly attenuated the degree of goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus secretion. Our results demonstrate that specific targeting of the flexible loop of TCTP is a potent strategy for treating airway inflammatory diseases.

Prognostic value of translationally controlled tumor protein in colon cancer

The translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a highly conserved protein involved in a variety of normal cell functions and disease processes. Preclinical studies revealed that TCTP has anti-apoptotic properties, promotes cell growth and division and is involved in cancer progression by promoting invasion and metastasis. The present study explored the potential value of TCTP as a prognostic marker in colon cancer. A retrospective analysis of 74 patients with colon cancer was performed. Using immunohistochemistry, TCTP levels in the primary tumor were assessed semi-quantitatively by the calculation of cytoplasmic and nuclear H-score. Cytoplasmic TCTP levels in the primary tumor had no statistically significant association with disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in the present patient population. Patients whose primary tumors had a negative nuclear TCTP expression had significantly improved clinical outcomes. The PFS for the negative nuclear TCTP expression group was 7.7 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 5.8-9.5] compared with 5.5 months (95% CI, 3.2-7.8) in the group with positive nuclear expression (P=0.023, Mantel-Cox log-rank). Patients with a negative nuclear expression of TCTP had a significantly higher median OS (22.2 months; 95% CI, 16.1-28.3) compared with those with positive TCTP nuclear expression (median 13.2 months; 95% CI, 10.1-16.3; P=0.008, Mantel-Cox log-rank). In a multivariate Cox regression model, a positive nuclear TCTP H-score was an independent risk factor for worse PFS and OS. The 1-year OS rate in the group with negative nuclear TCTP expression was 86.3% compared with 56.5% in patients with positive nuclear TCTP expression (P=0.008). The present study suggested that semiquantitative H-score measurement of TCTP levels in the nuclei of tumor cells from the primary tumor is a potential prognostic marker for clinical outcomes in patients with colon cancer.

Interaction between Bombyx mori Cytoplasmic Polyhedrosis Virus NSP8 and BmAgo2 Inhibits RNA Interference and Enhances Virus Proliferation

Some insect viruses encode suppressors of RNA interference (RNAi) to counteract the antiviral RNAi pathway. However, it is unknown whether Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (BmCPV) encodes an RNAi suppressor. In this study, the presence of viral small interfering RNA (vsiRNA) in BmN cells infected with BmCPV was confirmed by small RNA sequencing. The Dual-Luciferase reporter test demonstrated that BmCPV infection may prevent firefly luciferase (Luc) gene silencing caused by particular short RNA. It was also established that the inhibition relied on the nonstructural protein NSP8, which suggests that NSP8 was a possible RNAi suppressor. In cultured BmN cells, the expressions of viral structural protein 1 (vp1) and NSP9 were triggered by overexpression of nsp8, suggesting that BmCPV proliferation was enhanced by NSP8. A pulldown assay was conducted with BmCPV genomic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) labeled with biotin. The mass spectral detection of NSP8 in the pulldown complex suggests that NSP8 is capable of direct binding to BmCPV genomic dsRNA. The colocalization of NSP8 and B. mori Argonaute 2 (BmAgo2) was detected by an immunofluorescence assay, leading to the hypothesis that NSP8 interacts with BmAgo2. Coimmunoprecipitation further supported the present investigation. Moreover, vasa intronic protein, a component of RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), could be detected in the coprecipitation complex of NSP8 by mass spectrum analysis. NSP8 and the mRNA decapping protein (Dcp2) were also discovered to colocalize to processing bodies (P bodies) for RNAi-mediated gene silencing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These findings revealed that by interacting with BmAgo2 and suppressing RNAi, NSP8 promoted BmCPV growth. IMPORTANCE It has been reported that the RNAi pathway is inhibited by binding RNAi suppressors encoded by some insect-specific viruses belonging to Dicistroviridae, Nodaviridae, or Birnaviridae to dsRNAs to protect dsRNAs from being cut by Dicer-2. However, it is unknown whether BmCPV, belonging to Spinareoviridae, encodes an RNAi suppressor. In this study, we found that nonstructural protein NSP8 encoded by BmCPV inhibits small interfering RNA (siRNA)-induced RNAi and that NSP8, as an RNAi suppressor, can bind to viral dsRNAs and interact with BmAgo2. Moreover, vasa intronic protein, a component of RISC, was found to interact with NSP8. Heterologously expressed NSP8 and Dcp2 were colocalized to P bodies in yeast. These results indicated that NSP8 promoted BmCPV proliferation by binding itself to BmCPV genomic dsRNAs and interacting with BmAgo2 through suppression of siRNA-induced RNAi. Our findings deepen our understanding of the game between BmCPV and silkworm in regulating viral infection.

In Vitro Study of the Multimodal Effect of Na+/K+ ATPase Blocker Ouabain on the Tumor Microenvironment and Malignant Cells

Na+/K+ ATPase is a protein involved in the active transport of ions across the cellular membrane. Ouabain is a cardiotonic glycoside that, by inhibiting the Na+/K+ pump, interferes with cell processes mediated directly by the pump, but also indirectly influences other cellular processes such as cell cycle and proliferation, growth, cell differentiation, angiogenesis, migration, adhesion, and invasion. We used the SK-BR-3 breast cancer cell line, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) in vitro to determine the effects of ouabain exposure on these cellular types. The results showed a multi-level effect of ouabain mainly on tumor cells, in a dose-dependent manner, while the TAFs and their normal counterparts were not significantly influenced. Following exposure to ouabain, the SK-BR-3 cells changed their morphologic appearance, decreased the expression of immunophenotypic markers (CD29, Her2, VEGF), the proliferation rate was significantly decreased (Ki67 index), the cells were blocked in the G0 phase of the cell cycle and suffered necrosis. These data were correlated with the variable expression of α and β Na+/K+ pump subunits in tumor cells, resulting in decreased ability to adhere to the VCAM-1 substrate in functional flow chamber studies. Being indicative of the pro-apoptotic and inhibitory effect of ouabain on tumor invasion and metastasis, the results support the addition of ouabain to the oncological therapeutic arsenal, trailing the "repurposing drugs" approach.

Long-Distance Movement of Solanum tuberosum Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (StTCTP) mRNA

Long-distance signaling molecules in plants, including different RNA species, play a crucial role in the development and environmental responses. Among these mobile signals, the Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) mRNA is one of the most abundant. TCTP regulates cell-cycle progression and programmed cell death and is involved in responses to abiotic and biotic stress as well as plant regeneration, among other functions. Considering that the ability to induce plant regeneration is linked to a possible role of TCTP in vegetative propagation and asexual reproduction, we analyzed TCTP overexpression in a solanaceous plant model that can reproduce asexually by regeneration from stolons and tubers. Therefore, in this study, the effect of transient expression of Solanum tuberosum TCTP (StTCTP) on tuber development and vegetative propagation was described. StTCTP mRNA was shown to be transported long-distance. Additionally, transient overexpression of StTCTP resulted in sprouts with a greater diameter compared to control plants. Furthermore, the early stages of tuberization were induced compared to control plants, in which only mature tubers were observed. These results suggest a role of TCTP in vegetative propagation and asexual reproduction.

Translationally controlled tumor protein restores impaired memory and altered synaptic protein expression in animal models of dementia

This study describes the effects of translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) on mice with memory impairment caused by scopolamine (SCO) administration. Specifically, memory functions and expression levels of hippocampal synaptic proteins in 7- to 12-month-old SCO-treated wild-type (WT-SCO) mice were compared to those of TCTP-overexpressing (TG) and TCTP knocked-down (KD) mice similarly treated with SCO. Passive-avoidance tasks were performed with WT, TG, and KD mice for four weeks after intraperitoneal injection of SCO or saline followed by an acquisition test. After completing behavioral studies, hippocampi of all mice groups were collected and their synaptic protein contents were subjected to Western blotting or immunohistochemical analyses, and compared with those of 5x familial Alzheimer's disease (5xFAD) mice and postmortem AD patients. Results of passive avoidance tests revealed that SCO-induced memory impairment was repaired in TCTP-TG mice, but not in TCTP-KD mice. Hippocampal expression levels of synaptophysin, synapsin-1, and PSD-95 were increased in TCTP-TG mice treated with SCO (TG-SCO) but decreased in TCTP-KD mice treated with SCO (KD-SCO). Decreased levels of TCTP, synaptophysin, and PSD-95 were also found in hippocampi of 5xFAD mice and AD patients. Expression levels of p-CREB/CREB and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in TCTP-TG and TG-SCO mice were similar to or increased compared to those in WT mice, but decreased in TCTP-KD and KD-SCO mice. BDNF immunoreactivity was restored in CA1 regions of hippocampi of TG-SCO mice, but not in KD-SCO mice. These results suggest that TCTP can restore damaged memory in mice possibly through restored synaptic protein expression.

Inhibitors of dimerized translationally controlled tumor protein, a histamine releasing factor, may serve as anti-allergic drug candidates

It has been established that translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), also called histamine releasing factor (HRF), exhibits cytokine-like activities associated with initiation of allergic responses only after forming dimers (dTCTP). Agents that inhibit dTCTP by preventing its dimerization or otherwise block its function, also block development of allergic reactions, thereby serving as potential drugs to treat allergic diseases. Several lines of evidence have proven that peptides and antibodies that specifically inhibit the interactions between dTCTP and either its putative receptor or immunoglobulins exhibit significant in vivo efficacy as potential anti-inflammatory agents in murine models of allergic inflammatory diseases. This review highlights the development of several inhibitors targeting dTCTP and discusses how they affect the pathophysiologic processes of allergic and inflammatory diseases in several animal models and offers new perspectives on anti-allergic drug discovery.

Polymorphisms in TPT1 Pathways in Pediatric Astrocytomas

Central nervous system tumors, especially astrocytomas, are the solid neoplasms with the highest incidence and mortality rates in childhood. The diagnosis is based on histopathological characteristics, but molecular methods have been increasingly used. Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) protein, encoded by the tumor protein, translationally controlled 1 (TPT1) gene, is a multifunctional protein with an important physiological role in the cell cycle. Expression of this protein has been associated with several neoplasms, including astrocytomas in adults. However, the role of this protein in pediatric astrocytomas is largely unknown. We aim to evaluate in cases of pediatric astrocytomas, the frequency of polymorphisms in the TPT1 gene and other genes associated with its molecular pathways, such as MTOR, MDM2, TP53, and CDKN1A, correlating it with protein expression and clinical variables, in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. These samples were submitted to genotyping and immunohistochemistry analyses. The most revealing results refer to the MDM2 gene, rs117039649 [G/C], in which C polymorphic allele was observed only in the glioblastomas (p = .028). The CDKN1A gene, rs3176334 [T/C] presented a homozygous polymorphic genotype only in high-grade astrocytomas, when infiltrating tumors were compared (p = .039). The immunohistochemical expression of cytoplasmic MDM2 correlated with better survival rates in patients with glioblastoma (p = .018). The presence of polymorphisms in the MDM2 and CDKN1A genes, as well as a specific correlation between MDM2 expression, suggests a likely association with risk in pediatric astrocytomas. This study sought the probable role involved in the TCTP pathway, and associated proteins, in the tumorigenesis of pediatric astrocytomas, and some could have potential impact as prognostic markers in these patients.

Protein transduction domain of translationally controlled tumor protein: characterization and application in drug delivery

Our research group reported in 2011 the discovery of a novel cell-penetrating moiety in the N-terminus of the human translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP). This moiety was responsible for the previously noted membrane translocating ability of purified full-length TCTP. The hydrophobic nature of TCTP-derived protein transduction domain (TCTP-PTD) endowed it with unique characteristics compared to other well-known cationic PTDs, such as TAT-PTD. TCTP-PTD internalizes partly through lipid-raft/caveolae-dependent endocytosis and partly by macropinocytosis. After cell entry, caveosome-laden TCTP-PTD appears to move to the cytoplasm and cytoskeleton except for the nucleus possibly through the movement to endoplasmic reticulum (ER). TCTP-PTD efficiently facilitates delivery of various types of cargos, such as peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids in vitro and in vivo. It is noteworthy that TCTP-PTD and its variants promote intranasal delivery of antidiabetics including, insulin and exendin-4 and of antigens for immunization in vivo, suggesting its potential for drug delivery. In this review, we attempted to describe recent advances in the understanding regarding the identification of TCTP-PTD, the characteristics of its cellular uptake, and the usefulness as a vehicle for delivery into cells of a variety of drugs and macromolecules. Our investigative efforts are continuing further to delineate the details of the functions and the regulatory mechanisms of TCTP-PTD-mediated cellular penetration and posttranslational modification of TCTP in physiologic and pathological processes. This is a review of what we currently know regarding TCTP-PTD and its use as a vehicle for the transduction of drugs and other molecules.

Proteomic, biochemical, histopathological, and elevated plus maze analysis reveals the gut damaging role of ketoprofen with Yersinia enterocolitica and altered behavior in Wistar rats

The long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is known to damage the intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) that play numerous important roles, including nutrient absorption and barrier protection. In the current study, we determined the effect of ketoprofen on the rat gut when administered with Yersinia enterocolitica. On performing the label-free quantitation of the rat gut proteins, the expression of 494 proteins out of 1628 proteins was altered, which has a profound effect on NF-kB signaling pathway, immune system, dysbiosis, and gut injury. Further, the biochemical [enhanced malondialdehyde (MDA) & hepatic enzyme activities and reduced serotonin & antioxidants levels i.e., catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] and histopathological analysis suggested the significant damage in treated rats, compared to control rats. Lastly, the elevated plus maze (EPM) study confirmed high levels of anxiety in treated rats in comparison to the control group. Altogether, results suggest that the co-administration of ketoprofen with Y. enterocolitica damages gut, alters hepatic enzyme activities, and affects behavioral responses in the treated rats.

PEGylation improves the therapeutic potential of dimerized translationally controlled tumor protein blocking peptide in ovalbumin-induced mouse model of airway inflammation

Dimerized translationally controlled tumor protein (dTCTP) initiates a variety of allergic responses in mouse models and that dTCTP-binding peptide 2 (dTBP2) attenuates the allergic inflammation by targeting dTCTP. However, the usefulness of peptide-based drugs is often limited due to their short half-lives, rapid degradation, and high levels of clearance after systemic administration. In this study, we chemically conjugated dTBP2 with 10 kDa polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve its therapeutic potential. N-terminal mono-PEGylated dTBP2 (PEG-dTBP2) was characterized by in vitro bioactivity assay, pharmacokinetics study, and in vivo efficacy. When compared to the unmodified dTBP2, PEG-dTBP2 reduced proinflammatory cytokine IL-8 secretion in human bronchial cells by 10 to 15% and increased plasma half-life by approximately 2.5-fold in mice. This study specifically demonstrated that PEG-dTBP2 shows higher inhibitory action against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway inflammation in mice compared to dTBP2. Importantly, PEG-dTBP2, when administered once at 1 mg/kg, significantly reduced the migration of inflammatory cells and the levels of cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids as well as OVA-specific IgE levels in serum. In addition, the degree of goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus secretion were significantly attenuated in the PEG-dTBP2 group compared with the control group. These results suggest that PEG-dTBP2 can be considered a potential candidate drug for regulating allergic inflammation.

Role of Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) in the Development of Hypertension and Related Diseases in Mouse Models

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a multifunctional protein that plays a wide variety of physiological and pathological roles, including as a cytoplasmic repressor of Na,K-ATPase, an enzyme pivotal in maintaining Na+ and K+ ion gradients across the plasma membrane, by binding to and inhibiting Na,K-ATPase. Studies with transgenic mice overexpressing TCTP (TCTP-TG) revealed the pathophysiological significance of TCTP in the development of systemic arterial hypertension. Overexpression of TCTP and inhibition of Na,K-ATPase result in the elevation of cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels, which increases the vascular contractility in the mice, leading to hypertension. Furthermore, studies using an animal model constructed by multiple mating of TCTP-TG with apolipoprotein E knockout mice (ApoE KO) indicated that TCTP-induced hypertension facilitates the severity of atherosclerotic lesions in vivo. This review attempts to discuss the mechanisms underlying TCTP-induced hypertension and related diseases gleaned from studies using genetically altered animal models and the potential of TCTP as a target in the therapy of hypertension-related pathological conditions.

Comparative Proteomics of Potato Cultivars with a Variable Dormancy Period

The control of the duration of the dormancy phase is a significant challenge in the potato industry and for seed producers. However, the proteome landscape involved in the regulation of the length of the dormancy period over potato cultivars remains largely unexplored. In this study, we performed for the first time a comparative proteome profiling of potato cultivars with differential duration of tuber dormancy. More specifically, the proteome profiling of Agata, Kennebec and Agria commercial potato varieties with short, medium and medium-long dormancy, respectively, was assessed at the endodormancy stage using high-resolution two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) coupled to reversed-phase liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-TripleTOF MS/MS). A total of 11 proteins/isoforms with statistically significant differential abundance among cultivars were detected on 2-DE gels and confidently identified by LC-TripleTOF MS/MS. Identified proteins have known functions related to tuber development, sprouting and the oxylipins biosynthesis pathway. Fructokinase, a mitochondrial ADP/ATP carrier, catalase isozyme 2 and heat shock 70 kDa were the proteins with the strongest response to dormancy variations. To the best of our knowledge, this study reports the first candidate proteins underlying variable dormancy length in potato cultivars.

A nematode effector inhibits plant immunity by preventing cytosolic free Ca2+ rise

The Meloidogyne enterolobii effector MeTCTP is a member of the translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP) family, involved in M. enterolobii parasitism. In this study, we found that MeTCTP forms homodimers and, in this form, binds calcium ions (Ca²⁺ ). At the same time, Ca²⁺ could induce homodimerization of MeTCTP. We further identified that MeTCTP inhibits the increase of cytosolic free Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺ ]_cyt ) in plant cells and suppresses plant immune responses. This includes suppression of reactive oxygen species burst and cell necrosis, further promoting M. enterolobii parasitism. Our results have elucidated that the effector MeTCTP can directly target Ca²⁺ by its homodimeric form and prevent [Ca²⁺ ]_cyt rise in plant roots, revealing a novel mechanism utilized by plant pathogens to suppress plant immunity.

Identification of Metastasis-Associated Genes in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation

INTRODUCTION

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a global malignant tumor with a high degree of malignancy. Once metastasis occurs, it will lead to poor prognosis and even death. This study attempts to find out the central genes closely related to cSCC metastasis, so as to clarify the molecular regulatory mechanism of cSCC metastasis and open up new ideas for clinical treatment.

METHODS

Firstly, cSCC data set GSE98767 was used to establish a tumor metastasis model via clustering analysis. The key module and hub genes associated with cSCC metastasis were analyzed by weighted gene co-expression analysis (WGCNA). Next, the prognostic functions of hub genes were identified by functional and pathway enrichment analysis, pan-cancer analysis, and receiver operating characteristic-area under the curve (ROC-AUC) validation. Finally, the key genes were verified by clinical sample detection and biological in vitro test.

RESULTS

A total of 19 hub genes related to cSCC metastasis were identified. They were highly expressed in cSCC metastatic tissues and were mainly enriched in cellular material and energy metabolism pathways. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) results from pan-cancer analysis showed that eight and six highly expressed genes, respectively, with PAPSS2 and SCG5 had highly reliable ROC-AUC validation values and were poor prognostic factors. Clinical and biological tests also confirmed the upregulation of PAPSS2 and SCG5 in cSCC. Deletion of PAPSS2 and SCG5 resulted in decreased viability, migration, and invasion of A-431 cells.

CONCLUSION

PAPSS2 and SCG5 may be important factors for cSCC metastasis, and they are involved in the regulation of cSCC cell viability, migration, and invasion.

Biological Activities of Glass Ionomer Cement Supplemented with Fortilin on Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells

This study aimed to determine the most suitable recombinant fortilin and evaluate the biological activities of glass ionomer cement (GIC) incorporated with fortilin on human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Full-length and three fragments of Penaeus merguiensis fortilin were cloned and examined for their proliferative and cytoprotective effects on hDPSCs by MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. Human DPSCs were cultured with GIC supplemented with fortilin, tricalcium phosphate, or a combination of tricalcium phosphate and fortilin, designated as GIC + FL, GIC + TCP, and GIC + TCP + FL, respectively (n = 4 for each group). At given time points, hDPSCs were harvested and analyzed by MTT, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, alkaline phosphatase activity, and Alizarin Red assays. The full-length fortilin promoted cell proliferation and significantly increased cell survival. This protein was subsequently added into the GIC along with tricalcium phosphate to investigate the biological activities. All experimental groups showed reduced cell viability after treatment with modified GICs on days 1 and 3. The GIC + TCP + FL group significantly promoted odontoblastic differentiation at particular time points. In addition, alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium phosphate deposit were markedly increased in the GIC + TCP + FL group. Among all experimental groups, the GIC incorporated with fortilin and tricalcium phosphate demonstrated the best results on odontogenic differentiation and mineral deposition in hDPSCs.

Translationally controlled tumor protein: the mediator promoting cancer invasion and migration and its potential clinical prospects

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a highly conserved multifunctional protein localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus of eukaryotic cells. It is secreted through exosomes and its degradation is associated with the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27), and chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA). Its structure contains three α‍-helices and eleven β‍-strands, and features a helical hairpin as its hallmark. TCTP shows a remarkable similarity to the methionine-R-sulfoxide reductase B (MsrB) and mammalian suppressor of Sec4 (Mss4/Dss4) protein families, which exerts guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) activity on small guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) proteins, suggesting that some functions of TCTP may at least depend on its GEF action. Indeed, TCTP exerts GEF activity on Ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) to boost the growth and proliferation of Drosophila cells. TCTP also enhances the expression of cell division control protein 42 homolog (Cdc42) to promote cancer cell invasion and migration. Moreover, TCTP regulates cytoskeleton organization by interacting with actin microfilament (MF) and microtubule (MT) proteins and inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. In essence, TCTP promotes cancer cell movement. It is usually highly expressed in cancerous tissues and thus reduces patient survival; meanwhile, drugs can target TCTP to reduce this effect. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of TCTP in promoting cancer invasion and migration, and describe the current inhibitory strategy to target TCTP in cancerous diseases.

Oxidative stress, DNA damage, and gene expression induced by flufiprole enantiomers in the earthworms (Eisenia fetida)

To evaluate flufiprole enantiomers ecotoxicology and early warning to earthworms in the soil, the effect of flufiprole enantiomers on the activity of antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT; peroxidase, POD), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, DNA damage and expression level of target genes (SOD, TCTP, l-rRNA, and HSP90) have been investigated. Compared to the controls, the activities of SOD, CAT, POD, and MDA content were first inhibited and then stimulated by all concentrations of flufiprole enantiomers in 28 days. The olive tail moment (OTM) value was maximum on the 14th day, then decreased gradually, and the higher the concentration, the slower the decrease. The expression level of the SOD and TCTP genes increased first and then decreased. In conclusion, the toxicity of flufiprole enantiomers to earthworms is: R-(+)- flufiprole >Rac-(±)- flufiprole >S-(-)- flufiprole. The SOD could be the key biomarker for monitoring the risk of flufiprole enantiomers.

Tctp regulates the level and localization of Foxo for cell growth in Drosophila

Regulation of cell size is crucial for organ development. Insulin signaling regulates organ size by antagonizing the subgroup O of forkhead box transcription factor (Foxo) through 14-3-3 in Drosophila. However, mechanisms for controlling the level and the nuclear localization of Foxo in developing organs are not well understood. Here, we investigate the role of Drosophila Translationally controlled tumor protein (Tctp) and its interacting partner 14-3-3 in Foxo regulation during organ development. Foxo overexpression in the developing eye disc results in growth inhibition. We show that Tctp overexpression antagonizes the Foxo effect by downregulating the Foxo level in the eye disc. Foxo overexpression or knockdown of Tctp in the larval salivary gland results in reduced gland size, mainly due to reduced cell size by defects in endoreplication. Whereas 14-3-3ζ knockdown has a negligible effect, knockdown of 14-3-3ε mimics the effect of Foxo overexpression or Tctp knockdown, suggesting an isoform-specific role of 14-3-3. Unlike nuclear enrichment of the endogenous Foxo in the salivary gland, overexpressed Foxo protein is largely distributed in the cytoplasm, and this mislocalization is restored by Tctp overexpression. Opposite to the effect of Tctp overexpression, Tctp knockdown increases cytoplasmic Foxo levels while decreasing nuclear Foxo levels. Together, our data suggest that Tctp and 14-3-3ε play critical roles in cell growth by reducing cytoplasmic Foxo levels. Knockdown of human TCTP also elevates the level of cytoplasmic FOXO1 in HeLa cells, suggesting that human TCTP may have a conserved role in downregulating FOXO in human cells.

Proteomic Analysis Dissects Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Plant Responses to Phosphorus Deficiency

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for plant growth. In recent decades, the application of phosphate (Pi) fertilizers has contributed to significant increases in crop yields all over the world. However, low efficiency of P utilization in crops leads to intensive application of Pi fertilizers, which consequently stimulates environmental pollution and exhaustion of P mineral resources. Therefore, in order to strengthen the sustainable development of agriculture, understandings of molecular mechanisms underlying P efficiency in plants are required to develop cultivars with high P utilization efficiency. Recently, a plant Pi-signaling network was established through forward and reverse genetic analysis, with the aid of the application of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and ionomics. Among these, proteomics provides a powerful tool to investigate mechanisms underlying plant responses to Pi availability at the protein level. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of proteomic analysis in the identification of differential proteins that play roles in Pi acquisition, translocation, assimilation, and reutilization in plants. These findings could provide insights into molecular mechanisms underlying Pi acquisition and utilization efficiency, and offer new strategies in genetically engineering cultivars with high P utilization efficiency.

SUMOylation of Translationally Regulated Tumor Protein Modulates Its Immune Function

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a highly conserved protein possessing numerous biological functions and molecular interactions, ranging from cell growth to immune responses. However, the molecular mechanism by which TCTP regulates immune function is largely unknown. Here, we found that knockdown of Bombyx mori translationally controlled tumor protein (BmTCTP) led to the increased susceptibility of silkworm cells to virus infection, whereas overexpression of BmTCTP significantly decreased the virus replication. We further demonstrated that BmTCTP could be modified by SUMOylation molecular BmSMT3 at the lysine 164 via the conjugating enzyme BmUBC9, and the stable SUMOylation of BmTCTP by expressing BmTCTP-BmSMT3 fusion protein exhibited strong antiviral activity, which confirmed that the SUMOylation of BmTCTP would contribute to its immune responses. Further work indicated that BmTCTP is able to physically interact with interleukin enhancer binding factor (ILF), one immune molecular, involved in antivirus, and also induce the expression of BmILF in response to virus infection, which in turn enhanced antiviral activity of BmTCTP. Altogether, our present study has provided a novel insight into defending against virus via BmTCTP SUMOylation signaling pathway and interacting with key immune molecular in silkworm.

dTBP2 attenuates severe airway inflammation by blocking inflammatory cellular network mediated by dTCTP

Dimeric translationally controlled tumor protein (dTCTP), also known as histamine-releasing factor, amplifies allergic responses and its production has been shown to increase in inflammatory diseases such as allergic asthma. Despite the critical role of dTCTP in allergic inflammation, little is known about its production pathways, associated cellular networks, and underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, we explored the dTCTP-mediated inflammatory networks and molecular mechanisms of dTCTP associated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced severe asthma. LPS stimulation increased dTCTP production by mast cells and dTCTP secretion during degranulation, and extracellular dTCTP subsequently increased the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, including IL-8, by airway epithelial cells without affecting mast cell activation. Furthermore, dimeric TCTP-binding peptide 2 (dTBP2), a dTCTP inhibitor peptide, selectively blocked the dTCTP-mediated signaling network from mast cells to epithelial cells and decreased IL-8 production through IkB induction and nuclear p65 export in airway epithelial cells. More importantly, dTBP2 efficiently attenuated LPS-induced severe airway inflammation in vivo, resulting in decreased immune cell infiltration and IL-17 production and attenuated dTCTP secretion. These results suggest that dTCTP produced by mast cells exacerbates airway inflammation through activation of airway epithelial cells in a paracrine signaling manner, and that dTBP2 is beneficial in the treatment of severe airway inflammation by blocking the dTCTP-mediated inflammatory cellular network.

Allergic Inflammation Caused by Dimerized Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein is Attenuated by Cardamonin

We demonstrated in our previous reports that dimeric form of translationally controlled tumor protein (dTCTP) initiates a variety of allergic phenomena. In the present study, we examined whether and how dTCTP's role in allergic inflammation can be modulated or negated. The possible potential of cardamonin as an anti-allergic agent was assessed by ELISA using BEAS-2B cells and OVA-challenged allergic mouse model. The interaction between cardamonin and dTCTP was confirmed by SPR assay. Cardamonin was found to reduce the secretion of IL-8 caused by dTCTP in BEAS-2B cells by interacting with dTCTP. This interaction between dTCTP and cardamonin was confirmed through kinetic analysis (K_D = 4.72 ± 0.07 μM). Also, cardamonin reduced the migration of various inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), inhibited OVA specific IgE secretion and bronchial remodeling. In addition, cardamonin was observed to have an anti-allergic response by inhibiting the activity of NF-κB. Cardamonin exerts anti-allergic anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting dTCTP, suggesting that it may be useful in the therapy of allergic diseases.

Immunomolecular evaluation of dihydroartemisinin effects on apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell lines

INTRODUCTION

Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, has recently shown to induce apoptosis in many types of cancer cells. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of DHA on apoptosis in human chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cell lines.

METHODS

The cells were treated separately and combined by DHA and Fludurabine (FLU) during 24, 48 and 72 hours. The cell viabilities determined by XTT method. Following separate and combined treatment of IC50 concentrations of DHA and FLU to the cells during 24 hours, the cells were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the effects on apopotis staining with AnnexinV FITC and PI. mRNA and protein expression levels of TCTP, Mcl-1, Bcl-2, Bax and Caspase-3 were analyzed to find out the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis by using quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometric methods.

RESULTS

Treatment with DHA alone or in combination with FLU induced apoptosis in a dose dependent manner in CLL cells. DHA alone was more effective than FLU alone or combined treatment with DHA and FLU. Our results suggest that Bcl-2 protein family member Bax was active in the apoptotic response of CLL cells after DHA treatment. Moreover, the apoptotic response induced by DHA was independent from the p53 mutation status of the CLL cells.

CONCLUSION

DHA might be a potential anti-cancer therapeutic for CLL.

Revisiting the Molecular Interactions between the Tumor Protein TCTP and the Drugs Sertraline/Thioridazine

TCTP protein is a pharmacological target in cancer and TCTP inhibitors such as sertraline have been evaluated in clinical trials. The direct interaction of TCTP with the drugs sertraline and thioridazine has been reported in vitro by SPR experiments to be in the ∼30-50 μM K_d range (Amson et al. Nature Med 2012), supporting a TCTP-dependent mode of action of the drugs on tumor cells. However, the molecular details of the interaction remain elusive although they are crucial to improve the efforts of on-going medicinal chemistry. In addition, TCTP can be phosphorylated by the Plk-1 kinase, which is indicative of poor prognosis in several cancers. The impact of phosphorylation on TCTP structure/dynamics and binding with therapeutical ligands remains unexplored. Here, we combined NMR, TSA, SPR, BLI and ITC techniques to probe the molecular interactions between TCTP with the drugs sertraline and thioridazine. We reveal that drug binding is much weaker than reported with an apparent ∼mM K_d and leads to protein destabilization that obscured the analysis of the published SPR data. We further demonstrate by NMR and SAXS that TCTP S46 phosphorylation does not promote tighter interaction between TCTP and sertraline. Accordingly, we question the supported model in which sertraline and thioridazine directly interact with isolated TCTP in tumor cells and discuss alternative modes of action for the drugs in light of current literature.

TCTP overexpression reverses age-associated telomere attrition by upregulating telomerase activity in mouse oocytes

A prolonged time span between ovulation and fertilization can cause postovulatory aging of oocytes, which impairs oocyte quality and subsequent embryo development. Telomere attrition has long been considered as the primary hallmark of aging or the cause of age-associated diseases. However, the status of telomere and its regulation during postovulatory oocyte aging are poorly understood. Here we found that oocytes experience telomere shortening during postovulatory aging, although they have the capacity to maintain telomere length. However, translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) overexpression could reverse age-associated telomere shortening by upregulating telomerase activity in mouse oocytes. Telomere length in mature oocytes gradually decreased with postovulatory aging, which was associated with a marked reduction in TRF1 expression, decreased telomerase activity, and decreased homologous combination (HR)-based alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) with a concomitant increase in oxidative stress. Surprisingly, however, overexpression of TCTP led to a remarkable increase in telomere length during postovulatory aging. Notably, neither TRF1 nor BRCA1 level was altered by TCTP overexpression. Moreover, TCTP-mediated telomere lengthening was not blocked by HR inhibition. In striking contrast, telomerase activity, as well as TERT and TERC levels, increased after TCTP overexpression. Importantly, unlike the chromosome-wide distribution of endogenous TCTP, overexpressed TCTP was ectopically localized at telomeres, implying that TCTP overexpression is required to increase telomerase activity. Collectively, our results demonstrate that TCTP prevents telomere attrition during postovulatory aging by upregulating telomerase activity in mouse oocytes.

Physiological Responses of Aspergillus niger Challenged with Itraconazole

Aspergillus niger is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. An environmental isolate of A. niger from a pig farm was resistant to itraconazole, and in-depth investigations were conducted to better understand cellular responses that occur during growth when this pathogen is exposed to an antifungal. Using a combination of cultivation techniques, antibiotic stress testing, and label-free proteomics, this study investigated the physiological and metabolic responses of A. niger to sublethal levels of antifungal stress. Challenging A. niger with itraconazole inhibited growth, and the MIC was estimated to be > 16 mg · liter^-1 Through the proteome analysis, 1,305 unique proteins were identified. During growth with 2 and 8 mg · liter^-1 itraconazole, a total of 91 and 50 proteins, respectively, were significantly differentially expressed. When challenged with itraconazole, A. niger exhibited decreased expression of peroxidative enzymes, increased expression of an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter most likely involved as an azole efflux pump, and inhibited ergosterol synthesis; however, several ergosterol biosynthesis proteins increased in abundance. Furthermore, reduced expression of proteins involved in the production of ATP and reducing power from both the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) and glyoxylate cycles was observed. The mode of action of triazoles in A. niger therefore appears more complex than previously anticipated, and these observations may help highlight future targets for antifungal treatment.

Flow cytometry analysis of apoptotic progression and expression analysis of four apoptosis-related genes in Penaeus vannamei in response to white spot syndrome virus infection

Flow cytometry analysis was carried out to detect the progression of apoptosis in haemocytes of WSSV infected Penaeus vannamei at different time-points (1.5 hpi, 18 hpi and 56 hpi). Apoptosis in haemocytes was found to increase with time of infectivity from 5.06 to 69.63%. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was used for the expression analysis of four apoptosis-related genes such as Death-associated protein 1, caspase-5, translationally controlled tumor protein, and cathepsin D. The evidence of apoptosis in haemocytes of P. vannamei was established as shown by significant increase in the percentage of late apoptotic cells due to WSSV infection in shrimp. The present study gives an insight to the apoptosis rate in a WSSV infected shrimp during the course of infection and the role of apoptosis related genes.

Multifunctionality and intrinsic disorder of royal jelly proteome

Royal Jelly (RJ) is a gelatinous white-yellowish fluid, possessing a sour taste and a slight phenolic smell that is secreted by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular salivary glands of the nurse honeybees, and is used in nutrition of larvae and adult queens. Similar to other substances associated with the activities of honeybees, RJ not only contains nutritive components, such as carbohydrates, proteins, peptides, lipids, vitamins, and mineral salts, but also represents a natural ingredient with cosmetic and health-promoting properties. RJ is characterized by remarkable multifunctionality, possessing numerous biological activities. Although this multifunctionality of RJ can be considered as a consequence of its complex nature, many proteins and peptides in RJ are polyfunctional entities themselves. In this article, we show that RJ proteins contain different levels of intrinsic disorder, have sites of post-translational modifications, can be found in multiple isoforms, and many of them possess disorder-based binding sites, suggesting that the conformational ensembles of the RJ proteins might undergo change as a result of their interaction with specific binding partners. All these observations suggest that the multifunctionality of proteins and peptides from RJ is determined by their structural heterogeneity and polymorphism, and serve as an illustration of the protein structure-function continuum concept.

A novel ligand of the translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) identified by virtual drug screening for cancer differentiation therapy

Introduction Differentiation therapy is a promising strategy for cancer treatment. The translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is an encouraging target in this context. By now, this field of research is still at its infancy, which motivated us to perform a large-scale screening for the identification of novel ligands of TCTP. We studied the binding mode and the effect of TCTP blockade on the cell cycle in different cancer cell lines. Methods Based on the ZINC-database, we performed virtual screening of 2,556,750 compounds to analyze the binding of small molecules to TCTP. The in silico results were confirmed by microscale thermophoresis. The effect of the new ligand molecules was investigated on cancer cell survival, flow cytometric cell cycle analysis and protein expression by Western blotting and co-immunoprecipitation in MOLT-4, MDA-MB-231, SK-OV-3 and MCF-7 cells. Results Large-scale virtual screening by PyRx combined with molecular docking by AutoDock4 revealed five candidate compounds. By microscale thermophoresis, ZINC10157406 (6-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-[(8-methoxy-4-methyl-2-quinazolinyl)amino]-4(3H)-pyrimidinone) was identified as TCTP ligand with a K_D of 0.87 ± 0.38. ZINC10157406 revealed growth inhibitory effects and caused G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in MOLT-4, SK-OV-3 and MCF-7 cells. ZINC10157406 (2 × IC50) downregulated TCTP expression by 86.70 ± 0.44% and upregulated p53 expression by 177.60 ± 12.46%. We validated ZINC10157406 binding to the p53 interaction site of TCTP and replacing p53 by co-immunoprecipitation. Discussion ZINC10157406 was identified as potent ligand of TCTP by in silico and in vitro methods. The compound bound to TCTP with a considerably higher affinity compared to artesunate as known TCTP inhibitor. We were able to demonstrate the effect of TCTP blockade at the p53 binding site, i.e. expression of TCTP decreased, whereas p53 expression increased. This effect was accompanied by a dose-dependent decrease of CDK2, CDK4, CDK, cyclin D1 and cyclin D3 causing a G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in MOLT-4, SK-OV-3 and MCF-7 cells. Our findings are supposed to stimulate further research on TCTP-specific small molecules for differentiation therapy in oncology.

Mice immunization with Trypanosoma brucei gambiense translationally controlled tumor protein modulates immunoglobulin and cytokine production, as well as parasitaemia and mice survival after challenge with the parasite

Fighting trypanosomiasis with an anti-trypanosome vaccine is ineffective, the parasite being protected by a Variable Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) whose structure is modified at each peak of parasitaemia, which allows it to escape the host's immune defenses. However, the host immunization against an essential factor for the survival of the parasite or the expression of its pathogenicity could achieve the same objective. Here we present the results of mouse immunization against the Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP), a protein present in the Trypanosoma brucei gambiense (Tbg) secretome, the parasite responsible for human trypanosomiasis. Mice immunization was followed by infection with Tbg parasites. The production of IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a begun after the second TCTP injection and was dose-dependant, the maximum level of anti-TCTP antibodies remained stable up to 4 days post-infection and then decreased. Regarding cytokines (IL-2, 4, 6, 10, INFγ, TNFα), the most striking result was their total suppression after immunization with the highest TCTP dose. Compared to the control group, the immunized mice displayed a reduced first peak of parasitaemia, a 100% increase in the time to onset of the second peak, and an increased time of mice survival. The effect of immunization was only transient but demonstrated the likely important role that TCTP plays in host-parasite interactions and that some key parasite proteins could reduce infection impact.

TCTP participates in hepatic metabolism by regulating gene expression involved in insulin resistance

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) has various cellular functions and molecular interactions, many related to its growth-promoting and antiapoptotic properties. Recently, TCTP expression was reported to increases in insulin-resistant mice fed with high-fat diet. TCTP is a multifunctional protein, but its role in liver metabolism is unclear. Here, we investigated the function and mechanism of TCTP in HepG2 cells. Knock-down of TCTP led to 287 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were highly associated with cellular apoptosis and signal response, TNF and NF-κB signaling pathways, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, insulin resistance, FoxO and insulin signaling pathways, adipocytokine and AMPK signaling pathways. shTCTP downregulated the expression of the key gluconeogenesis enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1). Furthermore, TCTP regulated the alternative splicing of genes enriched in the phospholipid biosynthetic process and glycerophospholipid metabolism. We further showed that shTCTP down-regulated the intracellular levels of triglyceride and total cholesterol. Our results showed that TCTP regulates the liver cell transcriptome at both the transcriptional and alternative splicing levels. The TCTP regulatory network predicts the biological functions of TCTP in glucose and lipid metabolism, and also insulin resistance, which may be associated with liver metabolism and diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Investigating the Role of Translationally Control Tumor Protein in Growth, Development and Differentiation of Dictyostelium discoideum

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a multifunctional protein implicated in various types of cellular processes involving growth and development of an organism. Here, we identified tctp gene in Dictyostelium discoideum and unraveled its function. The sequence analysis of D. discoideum TCTP (DdTCTP) showed its conservation among eukaryotes. Transcript of DdTCTP was highly expressed at the initial time points of development and protein is localized both in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Disruption of tctp was achieved by BSR cassette using double homologous recombination method. Abrogation of tctp resulted in reduced cell proliferation but increased cell size. Additionally, development was delayed by 4 h wherein small-sized aggregates and fruiting bodies were produced by tctp^– cells while larger aggregates and fruiting bodies were produced by tctp^OE cells concordant with the fact that TCTP regulates prestalk/prespore ratio and cell-type differentiation. tctp^– cells produced round spores with reduced viability and stalk cells are arranged in septate pattern as compared to polyhedral manner of wild type. Abrogation of tctp resulted in aberrant localization of cell type specific markers and show low proclivity toward prespore/spore region, in presence of wild type cells.

Proteomic analysis on Aspergillus strains that are useful for industrial enzyme production

A simple intracellular proteomic study was conducted to investigate the biological activities of Aspergillus niger during industrial enzyme production. A strain actively secreting a heterologous enzyme was compared to a reference strain. In total, 1824 spots on 2-D gels were analyzed using MALDI-TOF MS, yielding 343 proteins. The elevated levels of UPR components, BipA, PDI, and calnexin, and proteins related to ERAD and ROS reduction, were observed in the enzyme-producer. The results suggest the occurrence of these responses in the enzyme-producers. Major glycolytic enzymes, Fba1, EnoA, and GpdA, were abundant but at a reduced level relative to the reference, indicating a potential repression of the glycolytic pathway. Interestingly, it was observed that a portion of over-expressed heterologous enzyme accumulated inside the cells and digested during fermentation, suggesting the secretion capacity of the strain was not enough for completing secretion. Newly identified conserved-proteins, likely in signal transduction, and other proteins were also investigated. Abbreviations: 2-D: two-dimensional; UPR: unfolded protein response; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; ERAD: ER-associated protein degradation; PDI: protein disulfide-isomerase; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RESS: Repression under Secretion Stress; CSAP: Conserved Small Abundant Protein; TCTP: translationally controlled tumor protein.

Translationally controlled tumor protein exerts a proinflammatory role in acute rejection after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), which has been verified to have a proinflammatory activity, plays an important role in allergy. However, it remains unclear whether TCTP has an impact on the acute rejection (AR) after liver transplantation.

METHODS

Three protocols were used to delineate the role of TCTP in AR after liver transplantation. First, in rat orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), the expression of TCTP was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), real-time PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence assays. Second, in mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), the role of TCTP in lymphocyte proliferation was measured by carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) labeling and the impact of TCTP on inflammatory factor release was detected by cytokine arrays. Third, in human OLT, the level of serum TCTP was detected by ELISA, and the relationship between TCTP and model for early allograft function (MEAF) score was assessed by Spearman's correlation.

RESULTS

In rat OLT, AR resulted in great harm to allografts, manifesting as deterioration of liver function, increasing inflammatory factors and infiltrating lymphocytes. Meanwhile, TCTP was overexpressed in serum and allografts. Higher level of TCTP was associated with higher rejection activity index (RAI). In an MLR protocol, TCTP knockdown inhibited the proliferation of mixed inflammatory cells and significantly suppressed the release of 15 cytokines and chemokines. In human OLT, the serum TCTP was up-regulated within a week after operation. Additionally, the increasing speed of serum TCTP positively correlated with MEAF scores (r = 0.449; P = 0.0088).

CONCLUSIONS

Up-regulated TCTP positively affects AR after liver transplantation.

Comprehensive analysis of Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) provides insights for lineage-specific evolution and functional divergence

BACKGROUND

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a conserved, multifunctional protein involved in numerous cellular processes in eukaryotes. Although the functions of TCTP have been investigated sporadically in animals, invertebrates, and plants, few lineage-specific activities of this molecule, have been reported. An exception is in Arabidopsis thaliana, in which TCTP (AtTCTP1) functions in stomatal closuer by regulating microtubule stability. Further, although the development of next-generation sequencing technologies has facilitated the analysis of many eukaryotic genomes in public databases, inter-kingdom comparative analyses using available genome information are comparatively scarce.

METHODOLOGY

To carry out inter-kingdom comparative analysis of TCTP, TCTP genes were identified from 377 species. Then phylogenetic analysis, prediction of protein structure, molecular docking simulation and molecular dynamics analysis were performed to investigate the evolution of TCTP genes and their binding proteins.

RESULTS

A total of 533 TCTP genes were identified from 377 eukaryotic species, including protozoa, fungi, invertebrates, vertebrates, and plants. Phylogenetic and secondary structure analyses reveal lineage-specific evolution of TCTP, and inter-kingdom comparisons highlight the lineage-specific emergence of, or changes in, secondary structure elements in TCTP proteins from different kingdoms. Furthermore, secondary structure comparisons between TCTP proteins within each kingdom, combined with measurements of the degree of sequence conservation, suggest that TCTP genes have evolved to conserve protein secondary structures in a lineage-specific manner. Additional tertiary structure analysis of TCTP-binding proteins and their interacting partners and docking simulations between these proteins further imply that TCTP gene variation may influence the tertiary structures of TCTP-binding proteins in a lineage-specific manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis suggests that TCTP has undergone lineage-specific evolution and that structural changes in TCTP proteins may correlate with the tertiary structure of TCTP-binding proteins and their binding partners in a lineage-specific manner.

Downregulation of transcription factor TCTP elevates microRNA-200a expression to restrain Myt1L expression, thereby improving neurobehavior and oxidative stress injury in cerebral palsy rats

Transcription factors have already been proposed to work on some human diseases. Yet the role of translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) in cerebral palsy (CP) remains elusive. This study intends to examine the mechanism of TCTP on CP by regulating microRNA-200a (miR-200a).CP models of rats were established referring to the internationally recognized improved hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy modeling method. The neuroethology of rats, ultrastructure and pathological condition in brain tissues of rats were observed through several assays. The expression of TCTP, miR-200a, myelin transcription factor 1-like (Myt1L), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) along with apoptosis in brain tissues of rats was detected. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in brain tissues of rats were determined. The binding site between miR-200a and Myt1L was analyzed.TCTP and Myt1L were overexpressed and miR-200a was under-expressed in CP rats. Elevated miR-200a ameliorated neurobehavior of CP rats and pathological injury in brain tissues. Elevated miR-200a up-regulated TH, GSH, GSH-Px, and SOD levels, down-regulated iNOS, ROS, MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels, and attenuated neuronal apoptosis in brain tissues of CP rats. Myt1L was a target gene of miR-200a.Altogether, our study suggested that diminution of transcription factor TCTP up-regulates miR-200a to limit Myt1L expression, thereby improving neurobehavior and oxidative stress injury in CP rats.

Repurposing Drugs for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Worthy Cause or a Futile Pursuit?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clinically and genetically heterogenous malignancy of myeloid progenitor cells that affects patients of all ages. Despite decades of research and improvement in overall outcomes, standard therapy remains ineffective for certain subtypes of AML. Current treatment is intensive and leads to a number of secondary effects with varying results by patient population. Due to the high cost of discovery and an unmet need for new targeted therapies that are well tolerated, alternative drug development strategies have become increasingly attractive. Repurposing existing drugs is one approach to identify new therapies with fewer financial and regulatory hurdles. In this review, we provide an overview of previously U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved non-chemotherapy drugs under investigation for the treatment of AML.

Comparative Transcriptomic Response of Two Pinus Species to Infection with the Pine Wood Nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus

Pine wilt disease (PWD) caused by pine wood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is a serious threat to global forest populations of conifers, in particular Pinus spp. Recently, the presence of PWN was reported in dead Yunnan pine (Pinus yunnanensis) trees under natural conditions. To further understand the potential impact caused by PWN in Yunnan pine populations, a transcriptional profiling analysis was performed over different time points (0 hours (h), 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days) after PWN inoculation. A total of 9961 differentially expressed genes were identified after inoculation, which suggested a dynamic response against the pathogen, with a more intense pattern at 48 h after inoculation. The results also highlighted a set of biological mechanisms triggered after inoculation that provide valuable information regarding the response of Yunnan pine to PWN infection. When compared with maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), the Yunnan pine response was less complex and involved a smaller number of differentially expressed genes, which may be associated with the increased degree of resistance to PWN displayed by Yunnan pine. These results revealed different strategies to cope with PWN infection by these two pine species, which display contrasting degrees of susceptibility, especially in the timely perception of the infection and response magnitude.

Translationally controlled tumor protein promotes liver regeneration by activating mTORC2/AKT signaling

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), which is a protein characterized by its potent proliferation promoting activity, has been well studied in the area of growth and tumorigenesis. However, the specific role of TCTP in liver regeneration (LR) and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. In order to investigate the contribution of TCTP during LR, heterozygous TCTP mice were generated, and a mimic LR model was applied to TCTP-knockdown (KD) hepatic cell lines. The results revealed that TCTP-KD impaired LR in mice, and manifested as the following aspects: delayed proliferation of hepatocytes, accompanied by disruption of the mRNA expression of markers of the cell cycle, degenerated lipid metabolism, and abnormal immune response. Furthermore, it was found out that TCTP activated PI3K/AKT signaling by regulating mTORC2. Lastly, the increasing rate of serum TCTP positively correlated to the recovery of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) after liver resection in humans. In summary, the present study is the first to reveal the crucial role of intracellular TCTP in LR.

Regulation of Autophagy Is a Novel Tumorigenesis-Related Activity of Multifunctional Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is highly conserved in eukaryotic organisms and plays multiple roles regulating cellular growth and homeostasis. Because of its anti-apoptotic activity and its role in the regulation of cancer metastasis, TCTP has become a promising target for cancer therapy. Moreover, growing evidence points to its clinical role in cancer prognosis. How TCTP regulates cellular growth in cancer has been widely studied, but how it regulates cellular homeostasis has received relatively little attention. This review discusses how TCTP is related to cancer and its potential as a target in cancer therapeutics, including its novel role in the regulation of autophagy. Regulation of autophagy is essential for cell recycling and scavenging cellular materials to sustain cell survival under the metabolic stress that cancer cells undergo during their aggressive proliferation.

TCTP is Essential for Cell Proliferation and Survival during CNS Development

Translationally controlled tumor-associated protein (TCTP) has been implicated in cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis through interacting proteins. Although TCTP is expressed abundantly in the mouse brain, little is known regarding its role in the neurogenesis of the nervous system. We used Nestin-cre-driven gene-mutated mice to investigate the function of TCTP in the nervous system. The mice carrying disrupted TCTP in neuronal and glial progenitor cells died at the perinatal stage. The Nestin^Cre/+; TCTP^f/f pups displayed reduced body size at postnatal day 0.5 (P0.5) and a lack of milk in the stomach compared with littermate controls. In addition to decreased cell proliferation, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) and caspase assay revealed that apoptosis was increased in newly committed TCTP-disrupted cells as they migrated away from the ventricular zone. The mechanism may be that the phenotype from specific deletion of TCTP in neural progenitor cells is correlated with the decreased expression of cyclins D2, E2, Mcl-1, Bcl-xL, hax-1, and Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) in conditional knockout mice. Our results demonstrate that TCTP is a critical protein for cell survival during early neuronal and glial differentiation. Thus, enhanced neuronal loss and functional defect in Tuj1 and doublecortin-positive neurons mediated through increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation during central nervous system (CNS) development may contribute to the perinatal death of TCTP mutant mice.

CRISPR disruption of TCTP gene impaired normal development in the silkworm Bombyx mori

The translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a highly conserved and multifunctional protein with activities ranging from cytoskeletal regulation to transcription regulation in numerous organisms. In insects, TCTP is essential for cell growth and proliferation. Recently, TCTP has been reported to affect the innate intestinal immune pathway in the Bombyx mori silkworm, a lepidopteran model insect. However, the comprehensive physiological roles of TCTP in the silkworm remain poorly understood. Here, we performed functional analysis of BmTCTP by using a binary transgenic CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/RNA-guided CRISPER-associated protein 9 nucleases) system. Disruption of BmTCTP led to developmental arrestment and subsequent lethality in third instar larvae. Histological analysis revealed that growth impairment originated from decreased cell size, and the proliferation and differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells were also affected. RNA-seq analysis revealed that genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism and digestive system pathways were significantly affected by BmTCTP depletion. Together, the results demonstrated that BmTCTP plays a key role in controlling larval growth and development.

Histamine-Releasing Factor, a New Therapeutic Target in Allergic Diseases

Histamine-releasing activities on human basophils have been studied as potential allergy-causing agents for four decades. An IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor (HRF) was recently shown to interact with a subset of immunoglobulins. Peptides or recombinant proteins that block the interactions between HRF and IgE have emerged as promising anti-allergic therapeutics, as administration of them prevented or ameliorated type 2 inflammation in animal models of allergic diseases such as asthma and food allergy. Basic and clinical studies support the notion that HRF amplifies IgE-mediated activation of mast cells and basophils. We discuss how secreted HRF promotes allergic inflammation in vitro and in vivo complex disease settings.