1
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Prajapat M, Singh H, Chaudhary G, Sarma P, Kaur G, Prakash Patel A, Medhi B. A Novel Inhibitor of DKK1/LRP6 Interactions Against the Alzheimer Disease: An Insilco Approach. Bioinform Biol Insights 2023; 17:11779322231183762. [PMID: 37424708 PMCID: PMC10328054 DOI: 10.1177/11779322231183762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The activation of the Wnt signaling pathway is implicated in a neuroprotective mechanism against the Alzheimer disease. When this pathway is blocked, it activates GSK3 beta, leading to tau hyperphosphorylation and the apoptosis of neurons. Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) is a protein that competes with the Wnt ligand for the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) receptor's binding, interrupting the Wnt-induced Fzd-Wnt-LRP6 complex. This counteracts Wnt's neuroprotective effect and contributes to the progression of the Alzheimer disease. The aim of this study was to use in silico approach to develop new agents that can combat the Alzheimer disease by targeting the interaction between DKK1 and LRP6. To achieve this, we conducted a virtual screening (Vsw) of the Asinex-CNS database library (n = 54 513) compounds against a generated grid in LRP6 protein. From this screening, we selected 6 compounds based on their docking score and performed molecular mechanics-generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) binding energy calculations on the selected ligands. Next, we evaluated the Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) results of the 6 screened compounds using the Quick prop module of Schrödinger. We then employed several computational techniques, including PCA (Principal Component Analysis), DCCM (Dynamic Cross-Correlation Map), molecular dynamics simulation, and molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA)-based negative binding free energy (BFE) calculation, to further analyze the compounds. Our extensive computational analysis resulted in the identification of 3 potential hits, LAS 29757582, LAS 29984441, and LAS 29757942. These compounds were found to block the interaction of DKK1 with LRP6 (A and B interface) protein, and their potential as therapeutic agents was supported by negative BFE calculation. Therefore, these compounds show potential as possible therapeutic agents for treating the Alzheimer disease through targeting the interaction between DKK1 and LRP6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bikash Medhi
- Bikash Medhi, Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, Research Block B, 4th Floor, Lab no. 4044, Chandigarh 160012, India.
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2
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Xu X, Wang J, Du S, Shen X, Lian J, Zhou J, Wang M, Feng W, Lv Z, Zhu J, Jin L, Sun H, Wu L, Wang X, Qiu H, Wang W, Teng H, Wang Y, Huang Z. Yes-associated protein regulates glutamate homeostasis through promoting the expression of excitatory amino acid transporter-2 in astrocytes via β-catenin signaling. Glia 2023; 71:1197-1216. [PMID: 36617748 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The homeostasis of glutamate is mainly regulated by the excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs), especially by EAAT2 in astrocytes. Excessive glutamate in the synaptic cleft caused by dysfunction or dysregulation of EAAT2 can lead to excitotoxicity, neuronal death and cognitive dysfunction. However, it remains unclear about the detailed regulation mechanism of expression and function of astrocytic EAAT2. In this study, first, we found increased neuronal death and impairment of cognitive function in YAPGFAP -CKO mice (conditionally knock out Yes-associated protein [YAP] in astrocytes), and identified EAAT2 as a downstream target of YAP through RNA sequencing. Second, the expression of EAAT2 was decreased in cultured YAP-/- astrocytes and the hippocampus of YAPGFAP -CKO mice, and glutamate uptake was reduced in YAP-/- astrocytes, but increased in YAP-upregulated astrocytes. Third, further investigation of the mechanism showed that the mRNA and protein levels of β-catenin were decreased in YAP-/- astrocytes and increased in YAP-upregulated astrocytes. Wnt3a activated YAP signaling and up-regulated EAAT2 through β-catenin. Furthermore, over-expression or activation of β-catenin partially restored the downregulation of EAAT2, the impairment of glutamate uptake, neuronal death and cognitive decline that caused by YAP deletion. Finally, activation of EAAT2 also rescued neuronal death and cognitive decline in YAPGFAP -CKO mice. Taken together, our study identifies an unrecognized role of YAP signaling in the regulation of glutamate homeostasis through the β-catenin/EAAT2 pathway in astrocytes, which may provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of brain diseases that closely related to the dysfunction or dysregulation of EAAT2, and promote the development of clinical strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Siyu Du
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiya Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiashu Lian
- Department of Orthopedics (Spine Surgery), The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics (Spine Surgery), The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mianxian Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenjin Feng
- Zhejiang Sinogen Medical Equipment Co., Ltd., Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhaoting Lv
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Junzhe Zhu
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences (School of Information and Engineering), Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lingting Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huankun Sun
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lihao Wu
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences (School of Information and Engineering), Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences (School of Information and Engineering), Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Qiu
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences (School of Information and Engineering), Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Honglin Teng
- Department of Orthopedics (Spine Surgery), The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedics (Spine Surgery), The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
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3
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Osteoblast/osteocyte-derived interleukin-11 regulates osteogenesis and systemic adipogenesis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7194. [PMID: 36424386 PMCID: PMC9691688 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34869-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise results in mechanical loading of the bone and stimulates energy expenditure in the adipose tissue. It is therefore likely that the bone secretes factors to communicate with adipose tissue in response to mechanical loading. Interleukin (IL)-11 is known to be expressed in the bone, it is upregulated by mechanical loading, enhances osteogenesis and suppresses adipogenesis. Here, we show that systemic IL-11 deletion (IL-11-/-) results in reduced bone mass, suppressed bone formation response to mechanical loading, enhanced expression of Wnt inhibitors, and suppressed Wnt signaling. At the same time, the enhancement of bone resorption by mechanical unloading was unaffected. Unexpectedly, IL-11-/- mice have increased systemic adiposity and glucose intolerance. Osteoblast/osteocyte-specific IL-11 deletion in osteocalcin-Cre;IL-11fl/fl mice have reduced serum IL-11 levels, blunted bone formation under mechanical loading, and increased systemic adiposity similar to IL-11-/- mice. Adipocyte-specific IL-11 deletion in adiponectin-Cre;IL-11fl/fl did not exhibit any abnormalities. We demonstrate that osteoblast/osteocyte-derived IL-11 controls both osteogenesis and systemic adiposity in response to mechanical loading, an important insight for our understanding of osteoporosis and metabolic syndromes.
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4
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Li Z, Xing X, Gomez-Salazar MA, Xu M, Negri S, Xu J, James AW. Pharmacological inhibition of DKK1 promotes spine fusion in an ovariectomized rat model. Bone 2022; 162:116456. [PMID: 35688363 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2022.116456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is common in patients undergoing spine surgery, and carries a considerable risk of adverse outcomes. New methods to positively influence bone regeneration and spine fusion under osteoporotic conditions would be impactful. Neutralizing anti-Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) antibodies has been used as a bone anabolic agent, and recently reported by our group to aid in stem cell-mediated appendicular bone regeneration. Here, a small molecule designed as a DKK1 inhibitor, WAY-262611, was used to induce posterolateral spine fusion in an ovariectomized rat model. In vitro, pharmacological inhibition of DKK1 enhanced osteogenesis and Wnt signaling activity among rat bone marrow-derived stem/stromal cells (BMSCs). In vivo, systemic treatment with WAY-262611 promoted both chondrogenesis and osteogenesis within the spinal fusion site, and ultimately led to significant improvements in lumbar fusion as assessed by XR, μCT, histology and manual palpation assessments. No significant effect on osteoclast numbers or fusion site angiogenesis was detected, suggesting a primary direct effect on mesenchymal cells of the implantation site. Finally, evidence from human stem/stromal cells further demonstrated that pharmacologic inhibition of DKK1 promoted osteogenic differentiation in vitro. Taken together, our results suggest that targeting DKK1 promotes local bone formation and suggests potential clinical value for osteoporotic bone repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Li
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA
| | - Xin Xing
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA
| | | | - Mingxin Xu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA
| | - Stefano Negri
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA; Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Verona, Verona 37129, Italy
| | - Jiajia Xu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA
| | - Aaron W James
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205,USA.
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5
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Jiang X, Liu J, Guan Y, Zhao Z, Meng F, Wang X, Gao X, Zhou F, Chen Y, Wang X. The mechanism of the WNT5A and FZD4 receptor mediated WNT/β–catenin pathway in the degeneration of ALS spinal cord motor neurons. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 609:23-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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6
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Tong XK, Royea J, Hamel E. Simvastatin rescues memory and granule cell maturation through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:325. [PMID: 35397630 PMCID: PMC8994768 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04784-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We previously showed that simvastatin (SV) restored memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer disease (AD) concomitantly with normalization in protein levels of memory-related immediate early genes in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Here, we investigated age-related changes in the hippocampal memory pathway, and whether the beneficial effects of SV could be related to enhanced neurogenesis and signaling in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. APP mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls showed comparable number of proliferating (Ki67-positive nuclei) and immature (doublecortin (DCX)-positive) granule cells in the dentate gyrus until 3 months of age. At 4 months, Ki67 or DCX positive cells decreased sharply and remained less numerous until the endpoint (6 months) in both SV-treated and untreated APP mice. In 6 month-old APP mice, dendritic extensions of DCX immature neurons in the molecular layer were shorter, a deficit fully normalized by SV. Similarly, whereas mature granule cells (calbindin-immunopositive) were decreased in APP mice and not restored by SV, their dendritic arborizations were normalized to control levels by SV treatment. SV increased Prox1 protein levels (↑67.7%, p < 0.01), a Wnt/β-catenin signaling target, while significantly decreasing (↓61.2%, p < 0.05) the upregulated levels of the β-catenin-dependent Wnt pathway inhibitor DKK1 seen in APP mice. In APP mice, SV benefits were recapitulated by treatment with the Wnt/β-catenin specific agonist WAY-262611, whereas they were fully abolished in mice that received the Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor XAV939 during the last month of SV treatment. Our results indicate that activation of the Wnt-β-catenin pathway through downregulation of DKK1 underlies SV neuronal and cognitive benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Kang Tong
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jessika Royea
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Edith Hamel
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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7
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Adiga D, Bhat S, Chakrabarty S, Kabekkodu SP. DOC2B is a Negative Regulator of Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway in Cervical Cancer. Pharmacol Res 2022; 180:106239. [PMID: 35500882 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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8
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Wu M, Zhang X, Zhang W, Chiou YS, Qian W, Liu X, Zhang M, Yan H, Li S, Li T, Han X, Qian P, Liu S, Pan Y, Lobie PE, Zhu T. Cancer stem cell regulated phenotypic plasticity protects metastasized cancer cells from ferroptosis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1371. [PMID: 35296660 PMCID: PMC8927306 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29018-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells display phenotypic equilibrium between the stem-like and differentiated states during neoplastic homeostasis. The functional and mechanistic implications of this subpopulation plasticity remain largely unknown. Herein, it is demonstrated that the breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) secretome autonomously compresses the stem cell population. Co-implantation with BCSCs decreases the tumor-initiating capacity yet increases metastasis of accompanying cancer cells, wherein DKK1 is identified as a pivotal factor secreted by BCSCs for such functions. DKK1-promotes differentiation is indispensable for disseminated tumor cell metastatic outgrowth. In contrast, DKK1 inhibitors substantially relieve the metastatic burden by restraining metastatic cells in the dormant state. DKK1 increases the expression of SLC7A11 to protect metastasizing cancer cells from lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Combined treatment with a ferroptosis inducer and a DKK1 inhibitor exhibits synergistic effects in diminishing metastasis. Hence, this study deciphers the contribution of CSC-regulated phenotypic plasticity in metastatic colonization and provides therapeutic approaches to limit metastatic outgrowth. The contribution of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) to metastasis needs further elucidation. Here, the authors show that BCSCs secrete DKK1 to protect metastasizing cancer cells from ferroptosis via upregulation of SLC7A11, and further show that the combination of a ferroptosis inducer with a DKK1 inhibitor reduces metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Weijie Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yi Shiou Chiou
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute and Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen, China.,Master Degree Program in Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenchang Qian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiangtian Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Min Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hong Yan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shilan Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xinghua Han
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Pengxu Qian
- Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueyin Pan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Peter E Lobie
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute and Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen, China. .,Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Tao Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China. .,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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9
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Bérenger-Currias NM, Mircea M, Adegeest E, van den Berg PR, Feliksik M, Hochane M, Idema T, Tans SJ, Semrau S. A gastruloid model of the interaction between embryonic and extra-embryonic cell types. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221103042. [PMID: 35707767 PMCID: PMC9189523 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221103042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem-cell derived in vitro systems, such as organoids or embryoids, hold great
potential for modeling in vivo development. Full control over their initial
composition, scalability, and easily measurable dynamics make those systems
useful for studying specific developmental processes in isolation. Here we
report the formation of gastruloids consisting of mouse embryonic stem cells
(mESCs) and extraembryonic endoderm (XEN) cells. These XEN-enhanced gastruloids
(XEGs) exhibit the formation of neural epithelia, which are absent in
gastruloids derived from mESCs only. By single-cell RNA-seq, imaging, and
differentiation experiments, we demonstrate the neural characteristics of the
epithelial tissue. We further show that the mESCs induce the differentiation of
the XEN cells to a visceral endoderm-like state. Finally, we demonstrate that
local inhibition of WNT signaling and production of a basement membrane by the
XEN cells underlie the formation of the neuroepithelial tissue. In summary, we
establish XEGs to explore heterotypic cellular interactions and their
developmental consequences in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Mlp Bérenger-Currias
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Delft University of Technology, Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Mircea
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Esmée Adegeest
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marleen Feliksik
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mazène Hochane
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Timon Idema
- Delft University of Technology, Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Sander J Tans
- Delft University of Technology, Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft, The Netherlands.,AMOLF, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Semrau
- Department of Physics, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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10
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Giralt I, Gallo-Oller G, Navarro N, Zarzosa P, Pons G, Magdaleno A, Segura MF, Sábado C, Hladun R, Arango D, Sánchez de Toledo J, Moreno L, Gallego S, Roma J. Dickkopf-1 Inhibition Reactivates Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Rhabdomyosarcoma, Induces Myogenic Markers In Vitro and Impairs Tumor Cell Survival In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12921. [PMID: 34884726 PMCID: PMC8657544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a pivotal role during embryogenesis and its deregulation is a key mechanism in the origin and progression of several tumors. Wnt antagonists have been described as key modulators of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer, with Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1) being the most studied member of the DKK family. Although the therapeutic potential of DKK-1 inhibition has been evaluated in several diseases and malignancies, little is known in pediatric tumors. Only a few works have studied the genetic inhibition and function of DKK-1 in rhabdomyosarcoma. Here, for the first time, we report the analysis of the therapeutic potential of DKK-1 pharmaceutical inhibition in rhabdomyosarcoma, the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children. We performed DKK-1 inhibition via shRNA technology and via the chemical inhibitor WAY-2626211. Its inhibition led to β-catenin activation and the modulation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), with positive effects on in vitro expression of myogenic markers and a reduction in proliferation and invasion. In addition, WAY-262611 was able to impair survival of tumor cells in vivo. Therefore, DKK-1 could constitute a molecular target, which could lead to novel therapeutic strategies in RMS, especially in those patients with high DKK-1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Giralt
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Gabriel Gallo-Oller
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Natalia Navarro
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Patricia Zarzosa
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Guillem Pons
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Ainara Magdaleno
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Miguel F. Segura
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Constantino Sábado
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (C.S.); (R.H.)
| | - Raquel Hladun
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (C.S.); (R.H.)
| | - Diego Arango
- Group of Molecular Oncology, IRB Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - José Sánchez de Toledo
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucas Moreno
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (C.S.); (R.H.)
| | - Soledad Gallego
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (C.S.); (R.H.)
| | - Josep Roma
- Laboratory of Translational Research in Child and Adolescent Cancer, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (I.G.); (G.G.-O.); (N.N.); (P.Z.); (G.P.); (A.M.); (M.F.S.); (J.S.d.T.); (L.M.)
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11
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Huang QT, Sheng CW, Jones AK, Jiang J, Tang T, Han ZJ, Zhao CQ. Functional Characteristics of the Lepidopteran Ionotropic GABA Receptor 8916 Subunit Interacting with the LCCH3 or the RDL Subunit. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:11582-11591. [PMID: 34555899 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c00385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ionotropic γ-aminobutyric acid (iGABA) receptor is commonly considered as a fast inhibitory channel and is an important insecticide target. Since 1990, RDL, LCCH3, and GRD have been successively isolated and found to be potential subunits of the insect iGABA receptor. More recently, one orphan gene named 8916 was found and considered to be another potential iGABA receptor subunit according to its amino acid sequence. However, little information about 8916 has been reported. Here, the 8916 subunit from Chilo suppressalis was studied to determine whether it can form part of a functional iGABA receptor by co-expressing this subunit with CsRDL1 or CsLCCH3 in the Xenopus oocyte system. Cs8916 or CsLCCH3 did not form functional ion channels when expressed alone. However, Cs8916 was able to form heteromeric ion channels when expressed with either CsLCCH3 or CsRDL1. The recombinant heteromeric Cs8916/LCCH3 channel was a cation-selective channel, which was sensitive to GABA or β-alanine. The current of the Cs8916/LCCH3 channel was inhibited by dieldrin, endosulfan, fipronil, or ethiprole. In contrast, fluralaner, broflanilide, and avermectin showed little effect on the Cs8916/LCCH3 channel (IC50s > 10 000 nM). The Cs8916/RDL1 channel was sensitive to GABA, but was significantly different in EC50 and Imax for GABA to those of homomeric CsRDL1. Fluralaner, fipronil, or dieldrin showed antagonistic actions on Cs8916/RDL1. In conclusion, Cs8916 is a potential iGABA receptor subunit, which can interact with CsLCCH3 to generate a cation-selective channel that is sensitive to several insecticides. Also, as Cs8916/RDL1 has a higher EC50 than homomeric CsRDL1, Cs8916 may affect the physiological functions of CsRDL1 and therefore play a role in fine-tuning GABAergic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Tang Huang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P. R. China
| | - Cheng Wang Sheng
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P. R. China
| | - Andrew K Jones
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, U.K
| | - Jie Jiang
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P. R. China
| | - Tao Tang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, P. R. China
| | - Zhao Jun Han
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P. R. China
| | - Chun Qing Zhao
- College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, P. R. China
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12
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Dickkopf Proteins and Their Role in Cancer: A Family of Wnt Antagonists with a Dual Role. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080810. [PMID: 34451907 PMCID: PMC8400703 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway regulates crucial aspects such as cell fate determination, cell polarity and organogenesis during embryonic development. Wnt pathway deregulation is a hallmark of several cancers such as lung, gastric and liver cancer, and has been reported to be altered in others. Despite the general agreement reached by the scientific community on the oncogenic potential of the central components of the pathway, the role of the antagonist proteins remains less clear. Deregulation of the pathway may be caused by overexpression or downregulation of a wide range of antagonist proteins. Although there is growing information related to function and regulation of Dickkopf (DKK) proteins, their pharmacological potential as cancer therapeutics still has not been fully developed. This review provides an update on the role of DKK proteins in cancer and possible potential as therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer; available compounds in pre-clinical or clinical trials are also reviewed.
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13
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Bayle E, Svensson F, Atkinson BN, Steadman D, Willis NJ, Woodward HL, Whiting P, Vincent JP, Fish PV. Carboxylesterase Notum Is a Druggable Target to Modulate Wnt Signaling. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4289-4311. [PMID: 33783220 PMCID: PMC8172013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway is critically important for a number of cellular processes in both development and adult mammalian biology. This Perspective will provide a summary of current and emerging therapeutic opportunities in modulating Wnt signaling, especially through inhibition of Notum carboxylesterase activity. Notum was recently shown to act as a negative regulator of Wnt signaling through the removal of an essential palmitoleate group. Inhibition of Notum activity may represent a new approach to treat disease where aberrant Notum activity has been identified as the underlying cause. Reliable screening technologies are available to identify inhibitors of Notum, and structural studies are accelerating the discovery of new inhibitors. A selection of these hits have been optimized to give fit-for-purpose small molecule inhibitors of Notum. Three noteworthy examples are LP-922056 (26), ABC99 (27), and ARUK3001185 (28), which are complementary chemical tools for exploring the role of Notum in Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott
D. Bayle
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Fredrik Svensson
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Benjamin N. Atkinson
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - David Steadman
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Nicky J. Willis
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Hannah L. Woodward
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Paul Whiting
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
| | - Jean-Paul Vincent
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
| | - Paul V. Fish
- Alzheimer’s
Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, Cruciform Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, U.K.
- The
Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Kings Cross, London NW1 1AT, U.K.
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14
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Microwave-Assisted Regioselective Suzuki Coupling of 2,4-Dichloropyrimidines with Aryl and Heteroaryl Boronic Acids. Catalysts 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/catal11040439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Suzuki coupling reaction has been often used for the preparation of a diverse set of substituted pyrimidines. In this study, the Suzuki coupling of 2,4-dichloropyrimidines with aryl and heteroaryl boronic acids was investigated. A thorough screening of reaction conditions and the use of microwave irradiation led to a very efficient and straightforward synthetic procedure providing C4-substituted pyrimidines in good to excellent yields. Short reaction time (15 min) and extremely low catalyst loading (0.5 mol%) are the main advantages of our tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0) catalyzed microwave-assisted procedure, which could be used for quick and low-cost regioselective preparation of substituted pyrimidine rings.
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15
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Samatiwat P, Tabtimmai L, Suphakun P, Jiwacharoenchai N, Toviwek B, Kukongviriyapan V, Gleeson MP, Choowongkomon K. The Effect of the EGFR - Targeting Compound 3-[(4-Phenylpyrimidin-2-yl) Amino] Benzene-1-Sulfonamide (13f) against Cholangiocarcinoma Cell Lines. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021; 22:381-390. [PMID: 33639651 PMCID: PMC8190356 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2021.22.2.381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a noxious malignancy of epithelium of the bile duct with a low response rate to chemotherapy. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is implicated in the development of cancerous cells, especially CCA. In this study, we report detailed biological profiling of 13f identified from our earlier hit expansion studies. The aim of this work was to expand our understanding of 13f via more detailed investigations of its mechanism of action against KKU-100, KKU-452 and KKU-M156 CCA cells, as well as in comparison to the EGFR inhibitor Gefitinib and non-specific chemotherapeutic agents such as Cisplatin. METHODS Inhibiting EGFR-Kinase, cytotoxicity, clonogenic assay, wound healing and apoptosis were performed. Levels of total expression of EGFR and EGFR phosphorylation proteins were detected. RESULTS 13f was confirmed as an inhibitor of EGFR with an IC50 value against the tyrosine kinase of EGFR of 22 nM and IC50 values for 48 h incubation period were 1.3 ± 1.9, 1.5 ± 0.4 and 1.7 ± 1.1 µM of KKU-100, KKU-452 and KKU-M156, respectively through dose- and time-dependent induction of early apoptosis of CCA cells. The compound also suppressed the clonogenic ability of KKU-100 and KKU-M156 cells stronger than Gefitinib, while potently inhibiting EGF-stimulated CCA cell migratory activity in KKU-452 cells. It was observed that under normal conditions EGFR was activated in CCA cells. EGF-stimulated basal expression of EGFR in KKU-452 cells was suppressed following 13f treatment, which was significantly greater than that of the marketed EGFR inhibitor Gefitinib. CONCLUSION In summary, our study showed that 13f has potent anti-cancer activities including antiproliferation, clonogenic ability and migration through the modulation of EGFR signaling pathway in CCA for the first time. The compound represents an interesting starting point as a potential chemotherapeutic agent in ongoing efforts to improve response rate in CCA patients.<br />.
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Affiliation(s)
- Papavee Samatiwat
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand.
| | - Lueacha Tabtimmai
- Department of Biochemistry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
| | - Prapasri Suphakun
- Department of Biochemistry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
| | - Nattanan Jiwacharoenchai
- Genetic Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, 10900, Thailand.
| | | | - Veerapol Kukongviriyapan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
| | - M. Paul Gleeson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok. Thailand.
| | - Kiattawee Choowongkomon
- Department of Biochemistry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.
- Center for Advanced Studies in Nanotechnology for Chemical, Food and Agricultural Industries, KU Institute for Advanced Studies, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
- For Correspondence:
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16
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Menet R, Bourassa P, Calon F, ElAli A. Dickkopf-related protein-1 inhibition attenuates amyloid-beta pathology associated to Alzheimer's disease. Neurochem Int 2020; 141:104881. [PMID: 33068684 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) constitutes the leading cause of dementia worldwide. It is associated to amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and tau hyper-phosphorylation, accompanied by a progressive cognitive decline. Evidence suggests that the canonical Wnt pathway is deregulated in AD. Pathway activity is mediated by β-catenin stabilization in the cytosol, and subsequent translocation to the nucleus to regulate the expression of several genes implicated in brain homeostasis and functioning. It was recently proposed that Dickkopf-related protein-1 (DKK1), an endogenous antagonist of the pathway, might be implicated in AD pathogenesis. Here, we hypothesized that canonical Wnt pathway deactivation associated to DKK1 induction contributes to late-onset AD pathogenesis, and thus DKK1 neutralization could attenuate AD pathology. For this purpose, human post-mortem AD brain samples were used to assess pathway activity, and aged APPswe/PS1 mice were used to investigate DKK1 in late-onset AD-like pathology and therapy. Our findings indicate that β-catenin levels progressively decrease in the brain of AD patients, correlating with the duration of symptoms. Next, we found that Aβ pathology in APPswe/PS1 mediates DKK1 induction in the brain. Pharmacological neutralization of DKK1's biological activity in APPswe/PS1 mice restores pathway activity by stabilizing β-catenin, attenuates Aβ pathology, and ameliorates the memory of mice. Attenuation of AD-like pathology upon DKK1 inhibition is accompanied by a reduced protein expression of beta-site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE1). Moreover, DKK1 inhibition enhances vascular density, promotes blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity by increasing claudin 5, glucose transporter-1 (GLUT1), and ATP-binding cassette sub-family B member-1 (ABCB1) protein expression, as well as ameliorates synaptic plasticity by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) protein expression. DKK1 conditional induction reduces claudin 5, abcb1, and psd-95 mRNA expression, validating its inhibition effects. Our results indicate that neutralization of DKK1's biological activity attenuates AD-like pathology by restoring canonical Wnt pathway activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Menet
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Bourassa
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Frédéric Calon
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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17
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Oliver JD, Turner EC, Halpern LR, Jia S, Schneider P, D'Souza RN. Molecular Diagnostics and In Utero Therapeutics for Orofacial Clefts. J Dent Res 2020; 99:1221-1227. [PMID: 32609569 DOI: 10.1177/0022034520936245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Orofacial clefts and their management impose a substantial burden on patients, on their families, and on the health system. Under the current standard of care, affected patients are subjected to a lifelong journey of corrective surgeries and multidisciplinary management to replace bone and soft tissues, as well as restore esthetics and physiologic functions while restoring self-esteem and psychological health. Hence, a better understanding of the dynamic interplay of molecular signaling pathways at critical phases of palate development is necessary to pioneer novel prenatal interventions. Such pathways include transforming growth factor-β (Tgfβ), sonic hedgehog (Shh), wingless-integrated site (Wnt)/β-catenin, bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp), and fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) and its associated receptors, among others. Here, we summarize commonly used surgical methods used to correct cleft defects postnatally. We also review the advances made in prenatal diagnostics of clefts through imaging and genomics and the various in utero surgical corrections that have been attempted thus far. An overview of how key mediators of signaling that drive palatogenesis are emphasized in the context of the framework and rationale for the development and testing of therapeutics in animal model systems and in humans is provided. The pros and cons of in utero therapies that can potentially restore molecular homeostasis needed for the proper growth and fusion of palatal shelves are presented. The theme advanced throughout this review is the need to develop preclinical molecular therapies that could ultimately be translated into human trials that can correct orofacial clefts at earlier stages of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Oliver
- School of Medicine and School of Dentistry, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - E C Turner
- University of Western Australia Dental School, Perth, Western Australia
| | - L R Halpern
- School of Medicine and School of Dentistry, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - S Jia
- School of Medicine and School of Dentistry, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - P Schneider
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - R N D'Souza
- School of Medicine and School of Dentistry, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,University of Utah, Departments of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Pathology, and Surgery, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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18
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Toviwek B, Suphakun P, Choowongkomon K, Hannongbua S, Gleeson MP. Synthesis and evaluation of the NSCLC anti-cancer activity and physical properties of 4-aryl- N -phenylpyrimidin-2-amines. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 27:4749-4754. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.08.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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19
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Jia S, Zhou J, Fanelli C, Wee Y, Bonds J, Schneider P, Mues G, D'Souza RN. Small-molecule Wnt agonists correct cleft palates in Pax9 mutant mice in utero. Development 2017; 144:3819-3828. [PMID: 28893947 DOI: 10.1242/dev.157750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Clefts of the palate and/or lip are among the most common human craniofacial malformations and involve multiple genetic and environmental factors. Defects can only be corrected surgically and require complex life-long treatments. Our studies utilized the well-characterized Pax9-/- mouse model with a consistent cleft palate phenotype to test small-molecule Wnt agonist therapies. We show that the absence of Pax9 alters the expression of Wnt pathway genes including Dkk1 and Dkk2, proven antagonists of Wnt signaling. The functional interactions between Pax9 and Dkk1 are shown by the genetic rescue of secondary palate clefts in Pax9-/-Dkk1f/+;Wnt1Cre embryos. The controlled intravenous delivery of small-molecule Wnt agonists (Dkk inhibitors) into pregnant Pax9+/- mice restored Wnt signaling and led to the growth and fusion of palatal shelves, as marked by an increase in cell proliferation and osteogenesis in utero, while other organ defects were not corrected. This work underscores the importance of Pax9-dependent Wnt signaling in palatogenesis and suggests that this functional upstream molecular relationship can be exploited for the development of therapies for human cleft palates that arise from single-gene disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihai Jia
- School of Dentistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- School of Dentistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | | | - Yinshen Wee
- School of Dentistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - John Bonds
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Pascal Schneider
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Gabriele Mues
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Rena N D'Souza
- School of Dentistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA .,Departments of Neurobiology & Anatomy, Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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20
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Bulk cell density and Wnt/TGFbeta signalling regulate mesendodermal patterning of human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13602. [PMID: 27934856 PMCID: PMC5155150 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) recapitulates early aspects of human embryogenesis, but the underlying processes are poorly understood and controlled. Here we show that modulating the bulk cell density (BCD: cell number per culture volume) deterministically alters anteroposterior patterning of primitive streak (PS)-like priming. The BCD in conjunction with the chemical WNT pathway activator CHIR99021 results in distinct paracrine microenvironments codifying hPSCs towards definitive endoderm, precardiac or presomitic mesoderm within the first 24 h of differentiation, respectively. Global gene expression and secretome analysis reveals that TGFß superfamily members, antagonist of Nodal signalling LEFTY1 and CER1, are paracrine determinants restricting PS progression. These data result in a tangible model disclosing how hPSC-released factors deflect CHIR99021-induced lineage commitment over time. By demonstrating a decisive, functional role of the BCD, we show its utility as a method to control lineage-specific differentiation. Furthermore, these findings have profound consequences for inter-experimental comparability, reproducibility, bioprocess optimization and scale-up.
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21
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Sima J, Piao Y, Chen Y, Schlessinger D. Molecular dynamics of Dkk4 modulates Wnt action and regulates meibomian gland development. Development 2016; 143:4723-4735. [PMID: 27864382 DOI: 10.1242/dev.143909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Secreted Dickkopf (Dkk) proteins are major Wnt pathway modulators during organ development. Dkk1 has been widely studied and acts as a general Wnt inhibitor. However, the molecular function of other Dkks remains largely unknown. Here, we show that Dkk4 selectively inhibits a subset of Wnts, but is further inactivated by proteolytic cleavage. Meibomian gland (MG) formation is employed as a model where Dkk4 and its Wnt targets are expressed. Skin-specific expression of Dkk4 arrests MG growth at early germ phase, which is similar to that observed in Eda-ablated Tabby mice. Consistent with transient Dkk4 action, intact Dkk4 inhibits MG extension but the cleaved form progressively increases during MG development with a concomitant upswing in Wnt activity. Furthermore, both Dkk4 and its receptor (and Wnt co-receptor) Lrp6 are direct Eda targets during MG induction. In cell and organotypic cultures, Dkk4 inhibition is eliminated by elevation of Lrp6. Also, Lrp6 upregulation restores MG formation in Tabby mice. Thus, the dynamic state of Dkk4 itself and its interaction with Lrp6 modulates Wnt function during MG development, with a novel limitation of Dkk4 action by proteolytic cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Sima
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, NIA/NIH-IRP, 251 Bayview Blvd, room 10B014, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Yulan Piao
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, NIA/NIH-IRP, 251 Bayview Blvd, room 10B014, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Yaohui Chen
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, NIA/NIH-IRP, 251 Bayview Blvd, room 10B014, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - David Schlessinger
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, NIA/NIH-IRP, 251 Bayview Blvd, room 10B014, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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22
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Specification of embryonic stem cell-derived tissues into eye fields by Wnt signaling using rostral diencephalic tissue-inducing culture. Mech Dev 2016; 141:90-99. [PMID: 27151576 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The eyes are subdivided from the rostral diencephalon in early development. How the neuroectoderm regulates this subdivision, however, is largely unknown. Taking advantage of embryonic stem cell (ESC) culture using a Rax reporter line to monitor rostral diencephalon formation, we found that ESC-derived tissues at day 7 grown in Glasgow Minimum Expression Media (GMEM) containing knockout serum replacement (KSR) exhibited higher levels of expression of axin2, a Wnt target gene, than those grown in chemically defined medium (CDM). Surprisingly, Wnt agonist facilitated eye field-like tissue specification in CDM. In contrast, the addition of Wnt antagonist diminished eye field tissue formation in GMEM+KSR. Furthermore, the morphological formation of the eye tissue anlage, including the optic vesicle, was accompanied by Wnt signaling activation. Additionally, using CDM culture, we developed an efficient method for generating Rax+/Chx10+ retinal progenitors, which could become fully stratified retina. Here we provide a new avenue for exploring the mechanisms of eye field specification in vitro.
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Chae WJ, Ehrlich AK, Chan PY, Teixeira AM, Henegariu O, Hao L, Shin JH, Park JH, Tang WH, Kim ST, Maher SE, Goldsmith-Pestana K, Shan P, Hwa J, Lee PJ, Krause DS, Rothlin CV, McMahon-Pratt D, Bothwell ALM. The Wnt Antagonist Dickkopf-1 Promotes Pathological Type 2 Cell-Mediated Inflammation. Immunity 2016; 44:246-58. [PMID: 26872695 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2016.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to a plethora of environmental challenges commonly triggers pathological type 2 cell-mediated inflammation. Here we report the pathological role of the Wnt antagonist Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) upon allergen challenge or non-healing parasitic infection. The increased circulating amounts of Dkk-1 polarized T cells to T helper 2 (Th2) cells, stimulating a marked simultaneous induction of the transcription factors c-Maf and Gata-3, mediated by the kinases p38 MAPK and SGK-1, resulting in Th2 cell cytokine production. Circulating Dkk-1 was primarily from platelets, and the increase of Dkk-1 resulted in formation of leukocyte-platelet aggregates (LPA) that facilitated leukocyte infiltration to the affected tissue. Functional inhibition of Dkk-1 impaired Th2 cell cytokine production and leukocyte infiltration, protecting mice from house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma or Leishmania major infection. These results highlight that Dkk-1 from thrombocytes is an important regulator of leukocyte infiltration and polarization of immune responses in pathological type 2 cell-mediated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wook-Jin Chae
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Allison K Ehrlich
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Pamela Y Chan
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Alexandra M Teixeira
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Octavian Henegariu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Liming Hao
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jae Hun Shin
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jong-Hyun Park
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Wai Ho Tang
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Sang-Taek Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Stephen E Maher
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Karen Goldsmith-Pestana
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Peiying Shan
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - John Hwa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Patty J Lee
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Diane S Krause
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Carla V Rothlin
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Diane McMahon-Pratt
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Alfred L M Bothwell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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24
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Han Q, Pabba PK, Barbosa J, Mabon R, Healy JP, Gardyan MW, Terranova KM, Brommage R, Thompson AY, Schmidt JM, Wilson AG, Xu X, Tarver JE, Carson KG. 4H-Thieno[3,2-c]chromene based inhibitors of Notum Pectinacetylesterase. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2016; 26:1184-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2016.01.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Del Bello F, Farande A, Giannella M, Piergentili A, Quaglia W, Benicchi T, Cappelli F, Nencini A, Salerno M, Thomas RJ, Travagli M, Varrone M. Identification of 2-aminopyrimidine derivatives as inhibitors of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:5725-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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26
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Choudhary P, Dodsworth BT, Sidders B, Gutteridge A, Michaelides C, Duckworth JK, Whiting PJ, Benn CL. A FOXM1 Dependent Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transition in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130379. [PMID: 26121260 PMCID: PMC4488273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the epithelium is maintained by a complex but regulated interplay of processes that allow conversion of a proliferative state into a stably differentiated state. In this study, using human embryonic stem cell (hESC) derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) cells as a model; we have investigated the molecular mechanisms that affect attainment of the epithelial phenotype. We demonstrate that RPE undergo a Mesenchymal–Epithelial Transition in culture before acquiring an epithelial phenotype in a FOXM1 dependent manner. We show that FOXM1 directly regulates proliferation of RPE through transcriptional control of cell cycle associated genes. Additionally, FOXM1 modulates expression of the signaling ligands BMP7 and Wnt5B which act reciprocally to enable epithelialization. This data uncovers a novel effect of FOXM1 dependent activities in contributing towards epithelial fate acquisition and furthers our understanding of the molecular regulators of a cell type that is currently being evaluated as a cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Choudhary
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (PC); (CLB)
| | | | - Ben Sidders
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Gutteridge
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christos Michaelides
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua Kane Duckworth
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul John Whiting
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Louise Benn
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (PC); (CLB)
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Cosimelli B, Laneri S, Ostacolo C, Sacchi A, Severi E, Porcù E, Rampazzo E, Moro E, Basso G, Viola G. Synthesis and biological evaluation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidines and imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines as new inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 83:45-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.05.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Abstract
Although several methods have been used in bone regeneration medicine, current methods still have many limitations. The tissue used for autogenous bone graft is limited and allograft has weak osteoinductive activity. Tissue engineering provides a good choice for bone regeneration. However, the growth factors needed have a high price and short half-life. Recently, a number of small molecules have been confirmed to have osteoinductive activity and some have been clinically used. Natural small molecules including decalpenic acid, flavonoids, quinones can be extracted from plants and others can be synthesized according to the structure designed or mimicking the structure of natural small molecules. Small molecules can act as co-activator of BMP2 pathway or activate Wnt pathway; others can be the inhibitors of NF-κB signaling pathway. This review gives an overview on the small molecules with osteoinductive activity and discusses the mechanism of the small molecules.
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The WNT signaling pathway from ligand secretion to gene transcription: molecular mechanisms and pharmacological targets. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 138:66-83. [PMID: 23328704 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Wingless/integrase-1 (WNT) signaling is a key pathway regulating various aspects of embryonic development; however it also underlies several pathological conditions in man, including various cancers and fibroproliferative diseases in several organs. Investigating the molecular processes involved in (canonical) WNT signaling will open new avenues for generating new therapeutics to specifically target diseases in which WNT signaling is aberrantly regulated. Here we describe the complexity of WNT signal transduction starting from the processes involved in WNT ligand biogenesis and secretion by WNT producing cells followed by a comprehensive overview of the molecular signaling events ultimately resulting in enhanced transcription of specific genes in WNT receiving cells. Finally, the possible targets for therapeutic intervention and the available pharmacological inhibitors for this complex signaling pathway are discussed.
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Estrogen regulation of Dkk1 and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in neurodegenerative disease. Brain Res 2012; 1514:63-74. [PMID: 23261660 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
17β-estradiol (E2 or estrogen) is an endogenous steroid hormone that is well known to exert neuroprotection. Along these lines, one mechanism through which E2 protects the hippocampus from cerebral ischemia is by preventing the post-ischemic elevation of Dkk1, a neurodegenerative factor that serves as an antagonist of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, and simultaneously inducing pro-survival Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in hippocampal neurons. Intriguingly, while expression of Dkk1 is required for proper neural development, overexpression of Dkk1 is characteristic of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and temporal lobe epilepsy. In this review, we will briefly summarize the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, highlight the current literature linking alterations of Dkk1 and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling with neurological disease, and discuss E2's role in maintaining the delicate balance of Dkk1 and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in the adult brain. Finally, we will consider the implications of long-term E2 deprivation and hormone therapy on this crucial neural pathway. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Hormone Therapy.
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31
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Deng X, Roessler A, Brdar I, Faessler R, Wu J, Sales ZS, Mani NS. Direct, Metal-Free Amination of Heterocyclic Amides/Ureas with NH-Heterocycles and N-Substituted Anilines in POCl3. J Org Chem 2011; 76:8262-9. [DOI: 10.1021/jo201425q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Deng
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Armin Roessler
- PDMS API SM Development, Cilag AG, Hochstrasse 201, CH-8205 Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | - Ivana Brdar
- PDMS API SM Development, Cilag AG, Hochstrasse 201, CH-8205 Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | - Roger Faessler
- PDMS API SM Development, Cilag AG, Hochstrasse 201, CH-8205 Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | - Jiejun Wu
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Zachary S. Sales
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Neelakandha S. Mani
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, California 92121, United States
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current treatment for metastatic bone pain is mainly palliative. Recent insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in bone metastases have led to the identification of promising therapeutic targets. This review offers an update of preclinical and clinical data on new drugs for metastatic bone pain. AREAS COVERED Biphosphonates are the gold standard of bone-targeted therapy in bone metastases, for their anti-resorptive and analgesic effects. New drugs aim at breaking the 'vicious cycle' of bone metastatic disease, due to the bidirectional interaction between cancer cells and bone microenvironment. Osteoprotegerin, RANK/RANKL interaction, cathepsin K, the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and sclerostin are emerging targets for modulation of cancer-induced bone desorption. Other promising targets are those expressed in cancer cells that metastasize to bone, including Src, nerve growth factor, endothelin A, TGF-beta and CXCR4. Interesting therapeutic options include targets on nociceptors that innervate the bone, such as TPRV1, Trk and cannabinoid receptors. EXPERT OPINION Emerging therapies promise, in the next 10 years, a significant expansion in the array of therapeutic options for bone metastases. Most of these drugs are still in an early phase of development. Further clinical trials are needed to support the evidence of their efficacy and tolerability profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Coluzzi
- SAPIENZA University of Rome, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Italy.
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Pancratov R, DasGupta R. Postgenomic technologies targeting the Wnt signaling network. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2011; 3:649-65. [PMID: 21381216 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The recent development of high-throughput sequencing technologies and the availability of whole genome sequences of a variety of living organisms, including that of humans, have led to an enormous push in the quest for a comprehensive inquiry for the function of each and every gene discovered in different model organisms. A major conclusion from the sequencing projects was that while forward genetics had been extremely successful in identifying key genes/components of many biological processes, such as signal transduction cascades, the function(s) of the majority of genes in the genome remains a mystery. In this article, we discuss the use of a variety of high-throughput postgenomic tools, including functional genomics, proteomics, and chemical genetics that are being implemented in an exhaustive molecular dissection of a key evolutionarily conserved signal transduction pathway, namely the Wnt/wingless (wg) pathway and its associated signaling network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Pancratov
- Department of Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine and NYU Cancer Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Chen W, Chen M, Barak LS. Development of small molecules targeting the Wnt pathway for the treatment of colon cancer: a high-throughput screening approach. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2010; 299:G293-300. [PMID: 20508156 PMCID: PMC2928541 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00005.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Wnt proteins play major roles in development and differentiation, and abnormalities in their regulation are believed to contribute to the formation of many cancers, including colorectal malignancies. As a result, there has been an interest in identifying small molecule inhibitors of Wnt signaling as tool compounds for research or as precursors to new generations of anticancer drugs. Advancements in robotic technology along with reductions in the costs of equipment, chemical libraries, and information handling have made high-throughput drug discovery programs possible in an academic setting. In this minireview we discuss the most plausible protein targets for inhibiting Wnt signaling in colon cancer therapy, list small molecule Wnt inhibitors that have been identified through recent drug discovery efforts, and provide our laboratory's strategy for identifying novel Wnt signaling antagonists using high-throughput screening. In particular, we summarize the results of a screen of over 1,200 drug and druglike compounds we recently completed in which niclosamide was identified as a Wnt pathway antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Dept. of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Minyong Chen
- 1Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and
| | - Larry S. Barak
- 2Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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35
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Allen JG, Fotsch C, Babij P. Emerging Targets in Osteoporosis Disease Modification. J Med Chem 2010; 53:4332-53. [PMID: 20218623 DOI: 10.1021/jm9018756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- John G. Allen
- Chemistry Research and Discovery, Amgen, Inc., One Amgen Center Drive, Thousand Oaks, California 91320
| | - Christopher Fotsch
- Chemistry Research and Discovery, Amgen, Inc., One Amgen Center Drive, Thousand Oaks, California 91320
| | - Philip Babij
- Metabolic Disorders, Amgen, Inc., One Amgen Center Drive, Thousand Oaks, California 91320
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36
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Alcaraz MJ, Megías J, García-Arnandis I, Clérigues V, Guillén MI. New molecular targets for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Biochem Pharmacol 2010; 80:13-21. [PMID: 20206140 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2009] [Revised: 02/19/2010] [Accepted: 02/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disorder characterized by destruction of the articular cartilage, subchondral bone alterations and synovitis. Current treatments are focused on symptomatic relief but they lack efficacy to control the progression of this disease which is a leading cause of disability. Therefore, the development of effective disease-modifying drugs is urgently needed. Different initiatives are in progress to define the molecular mechanisms involved in the initiation and progression of OA. These studies support the therapeutic potential of pathways relevant in joint metabolism such as Wnt/beta-catenin, discoidin domain receptor 2 or proteinase-activated receptor 2. The dysregulation in cartilage catabolism and subchondral bone remodeling could be improved by selective inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases, aggrecanases and other proteases. Another approach would favor the activity of anabolic processes by using growth factors or regulatory molecules. Recent studies have also revealed the role of oxidative stress and synovitis in the progression of this disease, supporting the development of a number of inhibitory strategies. Novel targets in OA are represented by genes involved in OA pathophysiology discovered using gene network, epigenetic and microRNA approaches. Further insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in OA initiation and progression may lead to the development of new therapies able to control joint destruction and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria José Alcaraz
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Burjasot, Valencia, Spain.
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