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Arévalo-Martinez M, Ede J, van der Have O, Ritsvall O, Zetterberg FR, Nilsson UJ, Leffler H, Holmberg J, Albinsson S. Myocardin related transcription factor and galectin-3 drive lipid accumulation in human blood vessels. Vascul Pharmacol 2024; 156:107383. [PMID: 38830455 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2024.107383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Diabetes and hypertension are important risk factors for vascular disease, including atherosclerosis. A driving factor in this process is lipid accumulation in smooth muscle cells of the vascular wall. The glucose- and mechano-sensitive transcriptional coactivator, myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A/MKL1) can promote lipid accumulation in cultured human smooth muscle cells and contribute to the formation of smooth muscle-derived foam cells. The purpose of this study was to determine if intact human blood vessels ex vivo can be used to evaluate lipid accumulation in the vascular wall, and if this process is dependent on MRTF and/or galectin-3/LGALS3. Galectin-3 is an early marker of smooth muscle transdifferentiation and a potential mediator for foam cell formation and atherosclerosis. APPROACH AND RESULTS Human mammary arteries and saphenous veins were exposed to altered cholesterol and glucose levels in an organ culture model. Accumulation of lipids, quantified by Oil Red O, was increased by cholesterol loading and elevated glucose concentrations. Pharmacological inhibition of MRTF with CCG-203971 decreased lipid accumulation, whereas adenoviral-mediated overexpression of MRTF-A had the opposite effect. Cholesterol-induced expression of galectin-3 was decreased after inhibition of MRTF. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of galectin-3 with GB1107 reduced lipid accumulation in the vascular wall after cholesterol loading. CONCLUSION Ex vivo organ culture of human arteries and veins can be used to evaluate lipid accumulation in the intact vascular wall, as well as adenoviral transduction and pharmacological inhibition. Although MRTF and galectin-3 may have beneficial, anti-inflammatory effects under certain circumstances, our results, which demonstrate a significant decrease in lipid accumulation, support further evaluation of MRTF- and galectin-3-inhibitors for therapeutic intervention against atherosclerotic vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marycarmen Arévalo-Martinez
- Molecular Vascular Physiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, BMC D12, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jacob Ede
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Oscar van der Have
- Vessel Wall Biology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, BMC D12, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Olivia Ritsvall
- Molecular Vascular Physiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, BMC D12, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Fredrik R Zetterberg
- Galecto Biotech AB, Sahlgrenska Science Park, Medicinaregatan 8 A, SE-413 46 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ulf J Nilsson
- Galecto Biotech AB, Sahlgrenska Science Park, Medicinaregatan 8 A, SE-413 46 Lund, Sweden; Department of Chemistry, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Hakon Leffler
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Section MIG, Lund University BMC-C1228b, Klinikgatan 28, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Holmberg
- Molecular Vascular Physiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, BMC D12, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Albinsson
- Molecular Vascular Physiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, BMC D12, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden.
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2
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Ryabukhin SV, Bondarenko DV, Trofymchuk SA, Lega DA, Volochnyuk DM. Aza-Heterocyclic Building Blocks with In-Ring CF 2 -Fragment. CHEM REC 2024; 24:e202300283. [PMID: 37873869 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.202300283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Modern organic chemistry is a titan supporting and reinforcing pharmaceutical, agricultural, food and material science products. Over the past decades, the organic compounds market has been evolving to meet all the research demands. In this regard, medicinal chemistry is especially dependent on available chemical space as subtle tuning of the molecule structure is required to create a drug with relevant physicochemical properties and a remarkable activity profile. The recent rapid evolution of synthetic methodology to deploy fluorine has brought fluorinated compounds to the spotlight of MedChem community. And now unique properties of fluorine still keep fascinating more and more as its justified installation into a molecular framework has a beneficial impact on membrane permeability, lipophilicity, metabolic stability, pharmacokinetic properties, conformation, pKa , etc. The backward influence of medicinal chemistry on organic synthesis has also changed the landscape of the latter towards new fluorinated topologies as well. Such complex relationships create a flexible and ever-changing ecosystem. Given that MedChem investigations strongly lean on the ability to reach suitable building blocks and the existence of reliable synthetic methods in this review we collected advances in the chemistry of respectful, but still enigmatic gem-difluorinated aza-heterocyclic building blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- S V Ryabukhin
- Enamine Ltd., 78 Winston Churchill str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 60 Volodymyrska str., 01033, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute of Organic Chemistry of the, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 5 Akademik Kukhar str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - D V Bondarenko
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 60 Volodymyrska str., 01033, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - S A Trofymchuk
- Enamine Ltd., 78 Winston Churchill str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute of Organic Chemistry of the, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 5 Akademik Kukhar str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - D A Lega
- Enamine Ltd., 78 Winston Churchill str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
- National University of Pharmacy of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, 53 Pushkinska str., 61002, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - D M Volochnyuk
- Enamine Ltd., 78 Winston Churchill str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 60 Volodymyrska str., 01033, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute of Organic Chemistry of the, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 5 Akademik Kukhar str., 02094, Kyiv, Ukraine
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3
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Chawla P, Gau D, Chen F, Welling N, Boone D, Taboas J, Lee AV, Galson DL, Roy P. MRTF activity in breast cancer cells promotes osteoclastogenesis through a paracrine action of CTGF. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.06.570453. [PMID: 38106226 PMCID: PMC10723471 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.06.570453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Bone is a frequent site for breast cancer metastasis. Conditioning of local tumor microenvironment through crosstalk between tumor cells and bone resident cells in the metastatic niche is a major driving force for bone colonization of cancer cells. This study demonstrates that Myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF - a major cofactor for the transcription factor serum-response factor, SRF) activity in breast cancer cells is required for their ability to promote osteoclast differentiation of bone marrow-derived monocytes and colonize in bone. MRTF depletion in breast cancer cells affects a wide range of cell-secreted osteoclast-regulatory factors including connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a prominent bone metastasis-associated gene that exhibit strong positive association in expression with MRTF activity in human breast cancer. Rescue experiments demonstrate that CTGF is an important paracrine mediator of pro-osteoclastogenic action of MRTF in breast cancer cells. Both SRF-dependent and -independent (SAP-domain directed) functions of MRTF are required for its ability to regulate CTGF expression and osteoclast differentiation. In conclusion, this study uncovers a novel MRTF-directed tumor-extrinsic mechanism of bone colonization of cancer cells and suggest that MRTF inhibition could be a novel strategy to suppress osteoclast activity and skeletal involvement in metastatic breast cancer.
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4
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Foda BM, Neubig RR. Role of Rho/MRTF in Aggressive Vemurafenib-Resistant Murine Melanomas and Immune Checkpoint Upregulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13785. [PMID: 37762086 PMCID: PMC10531039 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813785] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer. Most have Ras-MAPK pathway (BRAFV600E or NRAS) mutations and highly effective targeted therapies exist; however, they and immune therapies are limited by resistance, in part driven by small GTPase (Rho and Rac) activation. To facilitate preclinical studies of combination therapies to provide durable responses, we describe the first mouse melanoma lines resistant to BRAF inhibitors. Treatment of mouse lines, YUMM1.7 and YUMMER, with vemurafenib (Vem), the BRAFV600E-selective inhibitor, resulted in high-level resistance (IC50 shifts 20-30-fold). Resistant cells showed enhanced activation of Rho and the downstream transcriptional coactivator, myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF). Resistant cells exhibited increased stress fibers, nuclear translocation of MRTF-A, and an increased MRTF-A gene signature. Pharmacological inhibition of the Rho/MRTF pathway using CCG-257081 reduced viability of resistant lines and enhanced sensitivity to Vem. Remarkably, co-treatment of parental lines with Vem and CCG-257081 eliminated resistant colony development. Resistant cells grew more slowly in vitro, but they developed highly aggressive tumors with a shortened survival of tumor-bearing mice. Increased expression of immune checkpoint inhibitor proteins (ICIs) in resistant lines may contribute to aggressive in vivo behavior. Here, we introduce the first drug-resistant mouse melanoma models for assessing combinations of targeted and immune therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardees M. Foda
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA;
- Molecular Genetics and Enzymology Department, National Research Centre, Dokki 12622, Egypt
| | - Richard R. Neubig
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA;
- Nicholas V. Perricone, M.D. Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
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5
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Azam H, Maher S, Clarke S, Gallagher WM, Prencipe M. SRF inhibitors reduce prostate cancer cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest in an isogenic model of castrate-resistant prostate cancer. Cell Cycle 2023; 22:1759-1776. [PMID: 37377210 PMCID: PMC10446773 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2023.2229713] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is challenging to treat, despite improvements with next-generation anti-androgens such as enzalutamide, due to acquired resistance. One of the mechanisms of such resistance includes aberrant activation of co-factors of the androgen receptor (AR), such as the serum response factor (SRF), which was associated with prostate cancer progression and resistance to enzalutamide. Here, we show that inhibition of SRF with three small molecules (CCG-1423, CCG-257081 and lestaurtinib), singly and in combination with enzalutamide, reduces cell viability in an isogenic model of CRPC. The effects of these inhibitors on the cell cycle, singly and in combination with enzalutamide, were assessed with western blotting, flow cytometry and β-galactosidase staining. In the androgen deprivation-sensitive LNCaP parental cell line, a synergistic effect between enzalutamide and all three inhibitors was demonstrated, while the androgen deprivation-resistant LNCaP Abl cells showed synergy only with the lestaurtinib and enzalutamide combination, suggesting a different mechanism of action of the CCG series of compounds in the absence and presence of androgens. Through analysis of cell cycle checkpoint proteins, flow cytometry and β-galactosidase staining, we showed that all three SRF inhibitors, singly and in combination with enzalutamide, induced cell cycle arrest and decreased S phase. While CCG-1423 had a more pronounced effect on the expression of cell cycle checkpoint proteins, CCG-257081 and lestaurtinib decreased proliferation also through induction of cellular senescence. In conclusion, we show that inhibition of an AR co-factors, namely SRF, provides a promising approach to overcoming resistance to AR inhibitors currently used in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Azam
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin
| | - Shane Maher
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin
| | - Shane Clarke
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin
| | - William M. Gallagher
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin
| | - Maria Prencipe
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin
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6
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Penas C, Arroyo-Berdugo Y, Apraiz A, Rasero J, Muñoa-Hoyos I, Andollo N, Cancho-Galán G, Izu R, Gardeazabal J, Ezkurra PA, Subiran N, Alvarez-Dominguez C, Alonso S, Bosserhoff AK, Asumendi A, Boyano MD. Pirin is a prognostic marker of human melanoma that dampens the proliferation of malignant cells by downregulating JARID1B/KDM5B expression. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9561. [PMID: 37308689 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36684-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Originally considered to act as a transcriptional co-factor, Pirin has recently been reported to play a role in tumorigenesis and the malignant progression of many tumors. Here, we have analyzed the diagnostic and prognostic value of Pirin expression in the early stages of melanoma, and its role in the biology of melanocytic cells. Pirin expression was analyzed in a total of 314 melanoma biopsies, correlating this feature with the patient's clinical course. Moreover, PIR downregulated primary melanocytes were analyzed by RNA sequencing, and the data obtained were validated in human melanoma cell lines overexpressing PIR by functional assays. The immunohistochemistry multivariate analysis revealed that early melanomas with stronger Pirin expression were more than twice as likely to develop metastases during the follow-up. Transcriptome analysis of PIR downregulated melanocytes showed a dampening of genes involved in the G1/S transition, cell proliferation, and cell migration. In addition, an in silico approach predicted that JARID1B as a potential transcriptional regulator that lies between PIR and its downstream modulated genes, which was corroborated by co-transfection experiments and functional analysis. Together, the data obtained indicated that Pirin could be a useful marker for the metastatic progression of melanoma and that it participates in the proliferation of melanoma cells by regulating the slow-cycling JARID1B gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Penas
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Yoana Arroyo-Berdugo
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Aintzane Apraiz
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Javier Rasero
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Iraia Muñoa-Hoyos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Noelia Andollo
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Rosa Izu
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Basurto University Hospital, 48013, Bilbo, Spain
| | - Jesús Gardeazabal
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Cruces University Hospital, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Pilar A Ezkurra
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Nerea Subiran
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Carmen Alvarez-Dominguez
- MEDONLINE Multidisciplinary Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences and Faculty of Education, International University of La Rioja, 26006, Logroño, Spain
| | - Santos Alonso
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Anja K Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Erlangen-EMN, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aintzane Asumendi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - María D Boyano
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain.
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain.
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7
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Jiang D, Ye Z, Hsieh CY, Yang Z, Zhang X, Kang Y, Du H, Wu Z, Wang J, Zeng Y, Zhang H, Wang X, Wang M, Yao X, Zhang S, Wu J, Hou T. MetalProGNet: a structure-based deep graph model for metalloprotein-ligand interaction predictions. Chem Sci 2023; 14:2054-2069. [PMID: 36845922 PMCID: PMC9945430 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc06576b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Metalloproteins play indispensable roles in various biological processes ranging from reaction catalysis to free radical scavenging, and they are also pertinent to numerous pathologies including cancer, HIV infection, neurodegeneration, and inflammation. Discovery of high-affinity ligands for metalloproteins powers the treatment of these pathologies. Extensive efforts have been made to develop in silico approaches, such as molecular docking and machine learning (ML)-based models, for fast identification of ligands binding to heterogeneous proteins, but few of them have exclusively concentrated on metalloproteins. In this study, we first compiled the largest metalloprotein-ligand complex dataset containing 3079 high-quality structures, and systematically evaluated the scoring and docking powers of three competitive docking tools (i.e., PLANTS, AutoDock Vina and Glide SP) for metalloproteins. Then, a structure-based deep graph model called MetalProGNet was developed to predict metalloprotein-ligand interactions. In the model, the coordination interactions between metal ions and protein atoms and the interactions between metal ions and ligand atoms were explicitly modelled through graph convolution. The binding features were then predicted by the informative molecular binding vector learned from a noncovalent atom-atom interaction network. The evaluation on the internal metalloprotein test set, the independent ChEMBL dataset towards 22 different metalloproteins and the virtual screening dataset indicated that MetalProGNet outperformed various baselines. Finally, a noncovalent atom-atom interaction masking technique was employed to interpret MetalProGNet, and the learned knowledge accords with our understanding of physics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejun Jiang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China .,Tencent Quantum Laboratory, Tencent Shenzhen 518057 Guangdong China .,College of Computer Science and Technology, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310006 Zhejiang China
| | - Zhaofeng Ye
- Tencent Quantum Laboratory, Tencent Shenzhen 518057 Guangdong China
| | - Chang-Yu Hsieh
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- Tencent Quantum Laboratory, Tencent Shenzhen 518057 Guangdong China
| | - Xujun Zhang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Yu Kang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Hongyan Du
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Zhenxing Wu
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Jike Wang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Yundian Zeng
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Haotian Zhang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Xiaorui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and TechnologyMacao
| | - Mingyang Wang
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and TechnologyMacao
| | - Shengyu Zhang
- Tencent Quantum Laboratory, Tencent Shenzhen 518057 Guangdong China
| | - Jian Wu
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310006 Zhejiang China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University Hangzhou 310058 Zhejiang China
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8
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Cheng Y, Wang Y, Yin R, Xu Y, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Yang L, Zhao D. Central role of cardiac fibroblasts in myocardial fibrosis of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1162754. [PMID: 37065745 PMCID: PMC10102655 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1162754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), a main cardiovascular complication of diabetes, can eventually develop into heart failure and affect the prognosis of patients. Myocardial fibrosis is the main factor causing ventricular wall stiffness and heart failure in DCM. Early control of myocardial fibrosis in DCM is of great significance to prevent or postpone the progression of DCM to heart failure. A growing body of evidence suggests that cardiomyocytes, immunocytes, and endothelial cells involve fibrogenic actions, however, cardiac fibroblasts, the main participants in collagen production, are situated in the most central position in cardiac fibrosis. In this review, we systematically elaborate the source and physiological role of myocardial fibroblasts in the context of DCM, and we also discuss the potential action and mechanism of cardiac fibroblasts in promoting fibrosis, so as to provide guidance for formulating strategies for prevention and treatment of cardiac fibrosis in DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dong Zhao
- *Correspondence: Longyan Yang, ; Dong Zhao,
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9
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Pawelec KM, Varnum M, Harkema JR, Auerbach B, Larsen SD, Neubig RR. Prevention of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis via inhibition of the MRTF/SRF transcription pathway. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e01028. [PMID: 36426895 PMCID: PMC9695093 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis is a debilitating disease, linked to high morbidity and mortality in chemotherapy patients. The MRTF/SRF transcription pathway has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target, as it is critical for myofibroblast differentiation, a hallmark of fibrosis. In human lung fibroblasts, the MRTF/SRF pathway inhibitor, CCG-257081, effectively decreased mRNA levels of downstream genes: smooth muscle actin and connective tissue growth factor, with IC50 s of 4 and 15 μM, respectively. The ability of CCG-257081 to prevent inflammation and fibrosis, measured via pulmonary collagen content and histopathology, was tested in a murine model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Animals were given intraperitoneal bleomycin for 4 weeks and concurrently dosed with CCG-257081 (0, 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg PO), a clinical anti-fibrotic (nintedanib) or the clinical standard of care (prednisolone). Mice treated with 100 mg/kg CCG-257081 gained weight vs. vehicle-treated control mice, while those receiving nintedanib and prednisolone lost significant weight. Hydroxyproline content and histological findings in tissue of animals on 100 mg/kg CCG-257081 were not significantly different from naive tissue, indicating successful prevention. Measures of tissue fibrosis were comparable between CCG-257081 and nintedanib, but only the MRTF/SRF inhibitor decreased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), a marker linked to fibrosis, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In contrast, prednisolone led to marked increases in lung fibrosis by all metrics. This study demonstrates the potential use of MRTF/SRF inhibitors to prevent bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in a clinically relevant model of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megan Varnum
- FibrosIXEast LansingMichiganUSA,BBC Entrepreneurial Training and ConsultingChelseaMichiganUSA
| | - Jack R. Harkema
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostic InvestigationMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA,Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | - Bruce Auerbach
- Office of Technology TransferUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Scott D. Larsen
- FibrosIXEast LansingMichiganUSA,Department of Medicinal ChemistryUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Richard R. Neubig
- FibrosIXEast LansingMichiganUSA,Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
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10
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Al-Hetty HRAK, Ismaeel GL, Mohammad WT, Toama MA, Kandeel M, Saleh MM, Turki Jalil A. SRF/MRTF-A and liver cirrhosis: Pathologic associations. J Dig Dis 2022; 23:614-619. [PMID: 36601855 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.13150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis results from prolonged and extensive liver fibrosis in which fibrotic tissues replace functional hepatic cells. Chronic liver disease due to various viral, chemical, or metabolic factors initiates hepatic fibrogenesis. Cirrhosis is associated with multiple clinical complications and a poor patient prognosis; therefore, developing novel antifibrotic therapies to prevent cirrhosis is of high priority. Mounting evidence points to the key role of serum response factor (SRF) and myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF)-A in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. SRF is a transcription factor and MRTF-A is a co-activator of SRF and normally resides in the cytoplasm. Upon the induction of fibrotic pathways, MRTF-A translocates into the nucleus and forms the active SRF/MRTF-A complex, leading to the expression of a multitude of fibrotic proteins and components of extracellular matrix. Silencing or inhibiting MRTF-A impedes hepatic stellate cell transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts and slows down the deposition of extracellular matrix in the liver, making it a potential therapeutic target. Here, we review the recent findings regarding the role of the SRF/MRTF-A complex in liver fibrosis and its therapeutic potential for the management of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mariam Alaa Toama
- College of Health and Medical Technologies, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelshikh University, Kafrelshikh, Egypt
| | - Marwan Mahmood Saleh
- Department of Biophysics, College of Applied Sciences, University of Anbar, Anbar, Iraq
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11
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Rho/SRF Inhibitor Modulates Mitochondrial Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911536. [PMID: 36232837 PMCID: PMC9570101 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CCG-1423 is a Rho A pathway inhibitor that has been reported to inhibit Rho/SRF-mediated transcriptional regulation. Serum response factor and its cofactors, which include ternary complex factors and myocardin-related transcription factors, regulate various cellular functions. In this study, we observed that CCG-1423 modulates the mitochondrial functions. The effect of this small molecule drug was determined by measuring mitochondrial function using an XFe96 Analyzer and an Oxygraph 2k (O2k) high-resolution respirometer. CCG-1423 treatment significantly reduced oxidative phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner. However, CCG-1423 increased the glycolytic rate. We also observed that histone 4 at lysine-16 underwent hyperacetylation with the treatment of this drug. Immunolabeling with F-actin and MitoTracker revealed the alteration in the actin cytoskeleton and mitochondria. Taken together, our findings highlight a critical role of CCG-1423 in inhibiting the transcription of SRF/p49 and PGC-1α, β, resulting in the downregulation of mitochondrial genes, leading to the repression of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and overall ATP reduction. This study provides a better understanding of the effects of CCG-1423 on mitochondria, which may be useful for the assessment of the potential clinical application of CCG-1423 and its derivatives.
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12
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Orlich MM, Diéguez-Hurtado R, Muehlfriedel R, Sothilingam V, Wolburg H, Oender CE, Woelffing P, Betsholtz C, Gaengel K, Seeliger M, Adams RH, Nordheim A. Mural Cell SRF Controls Pericyte Migration, Vessel Patterning and Blood Flow. Circ Res 2022; 131:308-327. [PMID: 35862101 PMCID: PMC9348820 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.321109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, collectively known as mural cells, are recruited through PDGFB (platelet-derived growth factor B)-PDGFRB (platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta) signaling. MCs are essential for vascular integrity, and their loss has been associated with numerous diseases. Most of this knowledge is based on studies in which MCs are insufficiently recruited or fully absent upon inducible ablation. In contrast, little is known about the physiological consequences that result from impairment of specific MC functions. Here, we characterize the role of the transcription factor SRF (serum response factor) in MCs and study its function in developmental and pathological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M. Orlich
- Department of Molecular Biology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., C.E.O., P.W., A.N.)
- International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) “From Molecules to Organisms,” Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., A.N.)
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden (M.M.O., C.B., K.G.)
- Now with Rudbeck Laboratory C11, Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden (M.M.O.)
| | - Rodrigo Diéguez-Hurtado
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Muenster, Germany (R.D.-H., R.H.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany (R.D.-H., R.H.A.)
| | - Regine Muehlfriedel
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Clinic Tuebingen (UKT), Germany. (R.M., V.S., M.S.)
| | - Vithiyanjali Sothilingam
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Clinic Tuebingen (UKT), Germany. (R.M., V.S., M.S.)
| | - Hartwig Wolburg
- Department of General Pathology and Pathological Anatomy, Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, University Clinic Tuebingen (UKT), Germany. (H.W.)
| | - Cansu Ebru Oender
- Department of Molecular Biology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., C.E.O., P.W., A.N.)
| | - Pascal Woelffing
- Department of Molecular Biology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., C.E.O., P.W., A.N.)
| | - Christer Betsholtz
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden (M.M.O., C.B., K.G.)
| | - Konstantin Gaengel
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden (M.M.O., C.B., K.G.)
| | - Mathias Seeliger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Clinic Tuebingen (UKT), Germany. (R.M., V.S., M.S.)
| | - Ralf H. Adams
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Muenster, Germany (R.D.-H., R.H.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany (R.D.-H., R.H.A.)
| | - Alfred Nordheim
- Department of Molecular Biology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., C.E.O., P.W., A.N.)
- International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) “From Molecules to Organisms,” Tuebingen, Germany (M.M.O., A.N.)
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13
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Gau D, Chawla P, Eder I, Roy P. Myocardin-related transcription factor's interaction with serum-response factor is critical for outgrowth initiation, progression, and metastatic colonization of breast cancer cells. FASEB Bioadv 2022; 4:509-523. [PMID: 35949508 PMCID: PMC9353439 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2021-00113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC)-related mortality primarily results from metastatic colonization of disseminated cells. Actin polymerization plays an important role in driving post-extravasation metastatic outgrowth of tumor cells. This study examines the role of myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF)/serum-response (SRF), a transcription system well known for regulation of cytoskeletal genes, in metastatic colonization of BC cells. We demonstrated that co-depletion of MRTF isoforms (MRTF-A and MRTF-B) dramatically impairs single-cell outgrowth ability of BC cells as well as retards growth progression of pre-established BC cell colonies in three-dimensional (3D) cultures. Conversely, overexpression of MRTF-A promotes initiation and progression of tumor-cell outgrowth in vitro, primary tumor formation, and metastatic outgrowth of seeded BC cells in vivo, and these changes can be dramatically blocked by molecular disruption of MRTF-A's interaction with SRF. Correlated with the outgrowth phenotypes, we further demonstrate MRTF's ability to augment the intrinsic cellular ability to polymerize actin and formation of F-actin-based protrusive structures requiring SRF's interaction. Pharmacological proof-of-concept studies show that small molecules capable of interfering with MRTF/SRF signaling robustly suppresses single-cell outgrowth and progression of pre-established outgrowth of BC cells in vitro as well as experimental metastatic burden of BC cells in vivo. Based on these data, we conclude that MRTF activity potentiates metastatic colonization of BC cells and therefore, targeting MRTF may be a promising strategy to diminish metastatic burden in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gau
- Department of BioengineeringPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Pooja Chawla
- Department of BioengineeringPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ian Eder
- Department of BioengineeringPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Partha Roy
- Department of BioengineeringPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA,Department of Pathology at the University of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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14
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Azam H, Pierro L, Reina M, Gallagher WM, Prencipe M. Emerging role for the Serum Response Factor (SRF) as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:155-169. [PMID: 35114091 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2032652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Serum Response Factor (SRF) is a transcription factor involved in three hallmarks of cancer: the promotion of cell proliferation, cell death resistance and invasion and metastasis induction. Many studies have demonstrated a leading role in the development and progression of multiple cancer types, thus highlighting the potential of SRF as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target, especially for cancers with poor prognosis. AREAS COVERED This review examines the role of SRF in several cancers in promoting cellular processes associated with cancer development and progression. SRF co-factors and signalling pathways are discussed as possible targets to inhibit SRF in a tissue and cancer-specific way. Small-molecule inhibitors of SRF, such as the CCGs series of compounds and lestaurtinib, which could be used as cancer therapeutics, are also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Targeting of SRF and its co-factors represents a promising therapeutic approach. Further understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the action of SRF could provide a pipeline of novel molecular targets and therapeutic combinations for cancer. Basket clinical trials and the use of SRF immunohistochemistry as companion diagnostics will help testing of these new targets in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Azam
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lisa Pierro
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Martina Reina
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - William M Gallagher
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maria Prencipe
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D4, Dublin, Ireland
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15
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Zhang Y, Knatko EV, Higgins M, Dayalan Naidu S, Smith G, Honda T, de la Vega L, Dinkova-Kostova AT. Pirin, an Nrf2-Regulated Protein, Is Overexpressed in Human Colorectal Tumors. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:262. [PMID: 35204145 PMCID: PMC8868368 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary conserved non-heme Fe-containing protein pirin has been implicated as an important factor in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumour progression of melanoma, breast, lung, cervical, prostate, and oral cancers. Here we found that pirin is overexpressed in human colorectal cancer in comparison with matched normal tissue. The overexpression of pirin correlates with activation of transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and increased expression of the classical Nrf2 target NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), but interestingly and unexpectedly, not with expression of the aldo-keto reductase (AKR) family members AKR1B10 and AKR1C1, which are considered to be the most overexpressed genes in response to Nrf2 activation in humans. Using pharmacologic and genetic approaches to either downregulate or upregulate Nrf2, we show that pirin is regulated by Nrf2 in human and mouse cells and in the mouse colon in vivo. The small molecule pirin inhibitor TPhA decreased the viability of human colorectal cancer (DLD1) cells, but this decrease was independent of the levels of pirin. Our study demonstrates the Nrf2-dependent regulation of pirin and encourages the pursuit for specific pirin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Elena V. Knatko
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Maureen Higgins
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Gillian Smith
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Tadashi Honda
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Biology & Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, NY 11794, USA;
| | - Laureano de la Vega
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
| | - Albena T. Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (Y.Z.); (E.V.K.); (M.H.); (S.D.N.); (G.S.); (L.d.l.V.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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16
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Colón-Bolea P, García-Gómez R, Casar B. RAC1 Activation as a Potential Therapeutic Option in Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1554. [PMID: 34827551 PMCID: PMC8615836 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a complex process by which cancer cells escape from the primary tumor to colonize distant organs. RAC1 is a member of the RHO family of small guanosine triphosphatases that plays an important role in cancer migration, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. RAC1 activation has been related to most cancers, such as cutaneous melanoma, breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer. RAC1P29S driver mutation appears in a significant number of cutaneous melanoma cases. Likewise, RAC1 is overexpressed or hyperactivated via signaling through oncogenic cell surface receptors. Thus, targeting RAC1 represents a promising strategy for cutaneous melanoma therapy, as well as for inhibition of other signaling activation that promotes resistance to targeted therapies. In this review, we focus on the role of RAC1 in metastatic cutaneous melanoma emphasizing the anti-metastatic potential of RAC1- targeting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Colón-Bolea
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
| | - Rocío García-Gómez
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Berta Casar
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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17
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Cardiac Fibrosis and Fibroblasts. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071716. [PMID: 34359886 PMCID: PMC8306806 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is the excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), such as collagen. Myofibroblasts are major players in the production of collagen, and are differentiated primarily from resident fibroblasts. Collagen can compensate for the dead cells produced by injury. The appropriate production of collagen is beneficial for preserving the structural integrity of the heart, and protects the heart from cardiac rupture. However, excessive deposition of collagen causes cardiac dysfunction. Recent studies have demonstrated that myofibroblasts can change their phenotypes. In addition, myofibroblasts are found to have functions other than ECM production. Myofibroblasts have macrophage-like functions, in which they engulf dead cells and secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines. Research into fibroblasts has been delayed due to the lack of selective markers for the identification of fibroblasts. In recent years, it has become possible to genetically label fibroblasts and perform sequencing at single-cell levels. Based on new technologies, the origins of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, time-dependent changes in fibroblast states after injury, and fibroblast heterogeneity have been demonstrated. In this paper, recent advances in fibroblast and myofibroblast research are reviewed.
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18
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Norouzi-Barough L, Bayat A. Validation strategies for identifying drug targets in dermal fibrotic disorders. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:2474-2485. [PMID: 34229083 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Fibrotic skin disorders, such as keloid disease (KD), are common clinically challenging disorders with unknown etiopathogenesis and ill-defined treatment strategies that affect millions of people worldwide. Thus, there is an urgent need to discover novel therapeutics. The validation of potential drug targets is an obligatory step in discovering and developing new therapeutic agents for the successful treatment of dermal fibrotic conditions, such as KD. The integration of multi-omics data with traditional and modern technological approaches, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and genome-editing tools, would provide unique opportunities to identify and validate novel targets in KD during early drug development. Thus, in this review, we summarize the current and emerging drug discovery process with a focus on validation strategies of potential drug targets identified in dermal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyla Norouzi-Barough
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ardeshir Bayat
- Centre for Dermatology Research, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Stopford Building, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; Medical Research Council-Wound Healing Unit, Division of Dermatology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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19
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Miranda MZ, Lichner Z, Szászi K, Kapus A. MRTF: Basic Biology and Role in Kidney Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116040. [PMID: 34204945 PMCID: PMC8199744 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A lesser known but crucially important downstream effect of Rho family GTPases is the regulation of gene expression. This major role is mediated via the cytoskeleton, the organization of which dictates the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of a set of transcription factors. Central among these is myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF), which upon actin polymerization translocates to the nucleus and binds to its cognate partner, serum response factor (SRF). The MRTF/SRF complex then drives a large cohort of genes involved in cytoskeleton remodeling, contractility, extracellular matrix organization and many other processes. Accordingly, MRTF, activated by a variety of mechanical and chemical stimuli, affects a plethora of functions with physiological and pathological relevance. These include cell motility, development, metabolism and thus metastasis formation, inflammatory responses and—predominantly-organ fibrosis. The aim of this review is twofold: to provide an up-to-date summary about the basic biology and regulation of this versatile transcriptional coactivator; and to highlight its principal involvement in the pathobiology of kidney disease. Acting through both direct transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms, MRTF plays a key (yet not fully appreciated) role in the induction of a profibrotic epithelial phenotype (PEP) as well as in fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, prime pathomechanisms in chronic kidney disease and renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zena Miranda
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Lichner
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Katalin Szászi
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - András Kapus
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Correspondence:
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20
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Appleton KM, Palsuledesai CC, Misek SA, Blake M, Zagorski J, Gallo KA, Dexheimer TS, Neubig RR. Inhibition of the Myocardin-Related Transcription Factor Pathway Increases Efficacy of Trametinib in NRAS-Mutant Melanoma Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092012. [PMID: 33921974 PMCID: PMC8122681 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Malignant melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer, and treatment is often ineffective due to the development of resistance to targeted therapeutic agents. The most prevalent form of melanoma with a mutated BRAF gene has an effective treatment, but the second most common mutation in melanoma (NRAS) leads to tumors that lack targeted therapies. In this study, we show that NRAS mutant human melanoma cells that are most resistant to inhibition of the oncogenic pathway have a second activated pathway (Rho). Inhibiting that pathway at one of several points can produce more effective cell killing than inhibition of the NRAS pathway alone. This raises the possibility that such a combination treatment could prove effective in those melanomas that fail to respond to existing targeted therapies such as vemurafenib and trametinib. Abstract The Ras/MEK/ERK pathway has been the primary focus of targeted therapies in melanoma; it is aberrantly activated in almost 80% of human cutaneous melanomas (≈50% BRAFV600 mutations and ≈30% NRAS mutations). While drugs targeting the MAPK pathway have yielded success in BRAFV600 mutant melanoma patients, such therapies have been ineffective in patients with NRAS mutant melanomas in part due to their cytostatic effects and primary resistance. Here, we demonstrate that increased Rho/MRTF-pathway activation correlates with high intrinsic resistance to the MEK inhibitor, trametinib, in a panel of NRAS mutant melanoma cell lines. A combination of trametinib with the Rho/MRTF-pathway inhibitor, CCG-222740, synergistically reduced cell viability in NRAS mutant melanoma cell lines in vitro. Furthermore, the combination of CCG-222740 with trametinib induced apoptosis and reduced clonogenicity in SK-Mel-147 cells, which are highly resistant to trametinib. These findings suggest a role of the Rho/MRTF-pathway in intrinsic trametinib resistance in a subset of NRAS mutant melanoma cell lines and highlight the therapeutic potential of concurrently targeting the Rho/MRTF-pathway and MEK in NRAS mutant melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Appleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
| | - Charuta C. Palsuledesai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
| | - Sean A. Misek
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.A.M.); (K.A.G.)
| | - Maja Blake
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
| | - Joseph Zagorski
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
| | - Kathleen A. Gallo
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.A.M.); (K.A.G.)
| | - Thomas S. Dexheimer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
| | - Richard R. Neubig
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (K.M.A.); (C.C.P.); (M.B.); (J.Z.); (T.S.D.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-517-353-7145
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21
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Role of Pirin, an Oxidative Stress Sensor Protein, in Epithelial Carcinogenesis. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10020116. [PMID: 33557375 PMCID: PMC7915911 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pirin is an oxidative stress (OS) sensor belonging to the functionally diverse cupin superfamily of proteins. Pirin is a suggested quercetinase and transcriptional activator of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway. Its biological role in cancer development remains a novel area of study. This review presents accumulating evidence on the contribution of Pirin in epithelial cancers, involved signaling pathways, and as a suggested therapeutic target. Finally, we propose a model in which Pirin is upregulated by physical, chemical or biological factors involved in OS and cancer development.
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Alajbegovic A, Holmberg J, Daoud F, Rippe C, Kalliokoski G, Ekman M, Daudi S, Ragnarsson S, Swärd K, Albinsson S. MRTFA overexpression promotes conversion of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells into lipid-laden foam cells. Vascul Pharmacol 2021; 138:106837. [PMID: 33516965 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2021.106837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Smooth muscle cells contribute significantly to lipid-laden foam cells in atherosclerotic plaques. However, the underlying mechanisms transforming smooth muscle cells into foam cells are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms regulating smooth muscle foam cell formation. APPROACH AND RESULTS Using human coronary artery smooth muscle cells we found that the transcriptional co-activator MRTFA promotes lipid accumulation via several mechanisms, including direct transcriptional control of LDL receptor, enhanced fluid-phase pinocytosis and reduced lipid efflux. Inhibition of MRTF activity with CCG1423 and CCG203971 significantly reduced lipid accumulation. Furthermore, we demonstrate enhanced MRTFA expression in vascular remodeling of human vessels. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates a novel role for MRTFA as an important regulator of lipid homeostasis in vascular smooth muscle cells. Thus, MRTFA could potentially be a new therapeutic target for inhibition of vascular lipid accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azra Alajbegovic
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden.
| | - Johan Holmberg
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Fatima Daoud
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Catarina Rippe
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | | | - Mari Ekman
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Sébastien Daudi
- Department of Clinical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Karl Swärd
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
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Actomyosin and the MRTF-SRF pathway downregulate FGFR1 in mesenchymal stromal cells. Commun Biol 2020; 3:576. [PMID: 33067523 PMCID: PMC7567845 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01309-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Both biological and mechanical signals are known to influence cell proliferation. However, biological signals are mostly studied in two-dimensions (2D) and the interplay between these different pathways is largely unstudied. Here, we investigated the influence of the cell culture environment on the response to bFGF, a widely studied and important proliferation growth factor. We observed that human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), but not fibroblasts, lose the ability to respond to soluble or covalently bound bFGF when cultured on microfibrillar substrates. This behavior correlated with a downregulation of FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) expression of hMSCs on microfibrillar substrates. Inhibition of actomyosin or the MRTF/SRF pathway decreased FGFR1 expression in hMSCs, fibroblasts and MG63 cells. To our knowledge, this is the first time FGFR1 expression is shown to be regulated through a mechanosensitive pathway in hMSCs. These results add to the sparse literature on FGFR1 regulation and potentially aid designing tissue engineering constructs that better control cell proliferation.
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RAC1 as a Therapeutic Target in Malignant Melanoma. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:478-488. [PMID: 32460002 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Small GTPases of the RAS and RHO families are related signaling proteins that, when activated by growth factors or by mutation, drive oncogenic processes. While activating mutations in KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS genes have long been recognized and occur in many types of cancer, similar mutations in RHO family genes, such as RAC1 and RHOA, have only recently been detected as the result of extensive cancer genome-sequencing efforts and are linked to a restricted set of malignancies. In this review, we focus on the role of RAC1 signaling in malignant melanoma, emphasizing recent advances that describe how this oncoprotein alters melanocyte proliferation and motility and how these findings might lead to new therapeutics in RAC1-mutant tumors.
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Suleman M, Chen A, Ma H, Wen S, Zhao W, Lin D, Wu G, Li Q. PIR promotes tumorigenesis of breast cancer by upregulating cell cycle activator E2F1. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:2914-2927. [PMID: 31500513 PMCID: PMC6791709 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1662259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pirin (PIR) protein belongs to the superfamily of cupin and is highly conserved between eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. It has been reported that PIR is upregulated in various tumors and involved in tumorigenesis. However, its biological functions particularly in promoting tumorigenesis are, to date, poorly characterized. Here we report that knockdown of PIR in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines causes a dramatic decrease in cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth in mice. Mechanistically, the cell cycle activator E2F1 and its target genes cdk4, cdk6, cycE, cycD and DDR1 are remarkably downregulated in PIR depleted cells, leading to G1/S phase arrest. Luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay indicate that PIR can activate E2F1 transcription by binding to its promoter region. Consistent with the observation in PIR knockdown cells, PIR inhibitors markedly inhibit the proliferation of both cell lines. Furthermore, knockdown of PIR significantly decreases the abilities of MCF7 cells for mobility and invasion in vitro and their metastasis in mice, which may be attributed to the decrease of DDR1. In conclusion, PIR stimulates tumorigenesis and progression by activating E2F1 and its target genes. Our finding thus suggests PIR as a potential druggable target for the therapy of cancers with high expression level of PIR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Suleman
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Centre for Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Swat, Swat, Pakistan
| | - Ai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huanhuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Shixiong Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wentao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Donghai Lin
- Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Guode Wu
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qinxi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Leal AS, Misek SA, Lisabeth EM, Neubig RR, Liby KT. The Rho/MRTF pathway inhibitor CCG-222740 reduces stellate cell activation and modulates immune cell populations in Kras G12D; Pdx1-Cre (KC) mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7072. [PMID: 31068602 PMCID: PMC6506531 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43430-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The stromal reaction in pancreatic cancer creates a physical barrier that blocks therapeutic intervention and creates an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. The Rho/myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF) pathway is implicated in the hyper-activation of fibroblasts in fibrotic diseases and the activation of pancreatic stellate cells. In this study we use CCG-222740, a small molecule, designed as a Rho/MRTF pathway inhibitor. This compound decreases the activation of stellate cells in vitro and in vivo, by reducing the levels of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression. CCG-222740 also modulates inflammatory components of the pancreas in KC mice (LSL-KrasG12D/+; Pdx-1-Cre) stimulated with caerulein. It decreases the infiltration of macrophages and increases CD4 T cells and B cells. Analysis of the pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDA) TCGA dataset revealed a correlation between elevated RhoA, RhoC and MRTF expression and decreased survival in PDA patients. Moreover, a MRTF signature is correlated with a Th2 cell signature in human PDA tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana S Leal
- Michigan State University, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Erika M Lisabeth
- Michigan State University, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Richard R Neubig
- Michigan State University, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Karen T Liby
- Michigan State University, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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