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Xu M, Zhao X, Wen T, Qu X. Unveiling the role of KRAS in tumor immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116058. [PMID: 38171240 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Kirsten rats sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS), the first discovered human oncogene, has long been recognized as "undruggable". KRAS mutations frequently occur in multiple human cancers including non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC), colorectal cancer(CRC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC), functioning as a "molecule switch" determining the activation of various oncogenic signaling pathways. Except for its intrinsic pro-tumorigenic role, KRAS alteration also exhibits an unique immune signature characterized by elevated PD-L1 level and high tumor mutational burden(TMB). KRAS mutation shape an immune suppressive microenvironment by impeding effective T cells infiltration and recruiting suppressive immune cells including myeloid-derived suppressor cells(MDSCs), regulatory T cells(Tregs), cancer associated fibroblasts(CAFs). In immune checkpoint inhibitor(ICI) era, NSCLC patients with mutated KRAS tend to be more responsive to ICI than patients with intact KRAS. The hallmark for KRAS mutation is the existence of multiple kinds of co-mutations. Different types of co-alterations have distinct tumor microenvironment(TME) signatures and responses to ICI. TP53 co-mutation possess a "hot" TME and achieve higher response to immunotherapy while other loss of function mutation correlated with a "colder" TME and a poor outcome to ICI-based therapy. The groundbreaking discovery of KRAS G12C inhibitors significantly improved outcomes for this KRAS subtype even though efficacy was limited to NSCLC patients. KRAS G12C inhibitors also restore the suppressive TME, creating an opportunity for combinations with ICI. However, an inevitable challenge to KRAS inhibitors is drug resistance. Promising combination strategies such as combination with SHP2 is an approach deserve further exploration because of their immune modulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xing Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ti Wen
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiujuan Qu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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2
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Zhao D, Liu Y, Yi F, Zhao X, Lu K. Recent advances in the development of inhibitors targeting KRAS-G12C and its related pathways. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 259:115698. [PMID: 37542991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The RAS gene, also known as the mouse sarcoma virus, includes three genes (KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS) that are associated with human tumors. Among them, KRAS has the highest incidence of mutations in cancer, accounting for around 80% of cases. At the molecular level, the RAS gene plays a regulatory role in transcription and translation, while at the cellular level, it affects cell proliferation and migration, making it crucial for cancer development. In 2021, the FDA approved AMG510, the first direct inhibitor targeting the KRAS-G12C mutation, which has shown tumor regression, prolonged survival, and low off-target activity. However, with the increase of drug resistance, a single inhibitor is no longer sufficient to achieve the desired effect on tumors. Therefore, a large number of other highly efficient inhibitors are being developed at different stages. This article provides an overview of the mechanism of action targeting KRAS-G12C in the KRASGTP-KRASGDP cycle pathway, as well as the structure-activity relationship, structure optimization, and biological activity effects of inhibitors that target the upstream and downstream pathways, or combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqiang Zhao
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Yu Liu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Fengchao Yi
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- College of Chemistry, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Structure and Performance for Functional Molecules, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Kui Lu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
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3
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Balaratnam S, Torrey ZR, Calabrese DR, Banco MT, Yazdani K, Liang X, Fullenkamp CR, Seshadri S, Holewinski RJ, Andresson T, Ferré-D'Amaré AR, Incarnato D, Schneekloth JS. Investigating the NRAS 5' UTR as a target for small molecules. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:643-657.e8. [PMID: 37257453 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma RAS (NRAS) is an oncogene that is deregulated and highly mutated in cancers including melanomas and acute myeloid leukemias. The 5' untranslated region (UTR) (5' UTR) of the NRAS mRNA contains a G-quadruplex (G4) that regulates translation. Here we report a novel class of small molecule that binds to the G4 structure located in the 5' UTR of the NRAS mRNA. We used a small molecule microarray screen to identify molecules that selectively bind to the NRAS-G4 with submicromolar affinity. One compound inhibits the translation of NRAS in vitro but showed only moderate effects on the NRAS levels in cellulo. Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends and RT-PCR analysis revealed that the predominant NRAS transcript does not possess the G4 structure. Thus, although NRAS transcripts lack a G4 in many cell lines the concept of targeting folded regions within 5' UTRs to control translation remains a highly attractive strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumirtha Balaratnam
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Zachary R Torrey
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - David R Calabrese
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Michael T Banco
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kamyar Yazdani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Xiao Liang
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | | | - Srinath Seshadri
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Ronald J Holewinski
- Protein Characterization Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Thorkell Andresson
- Protein Characterization Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Adrian R Ferré-D'Amaré
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Danny Incarnato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - John S Schneekloth
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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4
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Zob DL, Augustin I, Caba L, Panzaru MC, Popa S, Popa AD, Florea L, Gorduza EV. Genomics and Epigenomics in the Molecular Biology of Melanoma-A Prerequisite for Biomarkers Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010716. [PMID: 36614156 PMCID: PMC9821083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a common and aggressive tumor originating from melanocytes. The increasing incidence of cutaneous melanoma in recent last decades highlights the need for predictive biomarkers studies. Melanoma development is a complex process, involving the interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Genetic aberrations include BRAF, NRAS, NF1, MAP2K1/MAP2K2, KIT, GNAQ, GNA11, CDKN2A, TERT mutations, and translocations of kinases. Epigenetic alterations involve microRNAs, non-coding RNAs, histones modifications, and abnormal DNA methylations. Genetic aberrations and epigenetic marks are important as biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of disease recurrence, and for therapeutic targets. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the genomic and epigenetic changes in melanoma and discusses the latest scientific information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Luminita Zob
- Department of Medical Oncology, AI. Trestioreanu Institute of Oncology, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iolanda Augustin
- Department of Medical Oncology, AI. Trestioreanu Institute of Oncology, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.A.); (L.C.)
| | - Lavinia Caba
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.A.); (L.C.)
| | - Monica-Cristina Panzaru
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Setalia Popa
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alina Delia Popa
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Laura Florea
- Department of Nephrology-Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Eusebiu Vlad Gorduza
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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5
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Drugging KRAS: current perspectives and state-of-art review. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:152. [PMID: 36284306 PMCID: PMC9597994 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01375-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
After decades of efforts, we have recently made progress into targeting KRAS mutations in several malignancies. Known as the ‘holy grail’ of targeted cancer therapies, KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human malignancies. Under normal conditions, KRAS shuttles between the GDP-bound ‘off’ state and the GTP-bound ‘on’ state. Mutant KRAS is constitutively activated and leads to persistent downstream signaling and oncogenesis. In 2013, improved understanding of KRAS biology and newer drug designing technologies led to the crucial discovery of a cysteine drug-binding pocket in GDP-bound mutant KRAS G12C protein. Covalent inhibitors that block mutant KRAS G12C were successfully developed and sotorasib was the first KRAS G12C inhibitor to be approved, with several more in the pipeline. Simultaneously, effects of KRAS mutations on tumour microenvironment were also discovered, partly owing to the universal use of immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we discuss the discovery, biology, and function of KRAS in human malignancies. We also discuss the relationship between KRAS mutations and the tumour microenvironment, and therapeutic strategies to target KRAS. Finally, we review the current clinical evidence and ongoing clinical trials of novel agents targeting KRAS and shine light on resistance pathways known so far.
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6
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Abstract
In this review, I provide a brief history of the discovery of RAS and the GAPs and GEFs that regulate its activity from a personal perspective. Much of this history has been driven by technological breakthroughs that occurred concurrently, such as molecular cloning, cDNA expression to analyze RAS proteins and their structures, and application of PCR to detect mutations. I discuss the RAS superfamily and RAS proteins as therapeutic targets, including recent advances in developing RAS inhibitors. I also describe the role of the RAS Initiative at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in advancing development of RAS inhibitors and providing new insights into signaling complexes and interaction of RAS proteins with the plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank McCormick
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States.
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7
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Abstract
Activating mutations in RAS genes are the most common genetic driver of human cancers. Yet, drugging this small GTPase has proven extremely challenging and therapeutic strategies targeting these recurrent alterations have long had limited success. To circumvent this difficulty, research has focused on the molecular dissection of the RAS pathway to gain a more-precise mechanistic understanding of its regulation, with the hope to identify new pharmacological approaches. Here, we review the current knowledge on the (dys)regulation of the RAS pathway, using melanoma as a paradigm. We first present a map of the main proteins involved in the RAS pathway, highlighting recent insights into their molecular roles and diverse mechanisms of regulation. We then overview genetic data pertaining to RAS pathway alterations in melanoma, along with insight into other cancers, that inform the biological function of members of the pathway. Finally, we describe the clinical implications of RAS pathway dysregulation in melanoma, discuss past and current approaches aimed at drugging the RAS pathway, and outline future opportunities for therapeutic development. Summary: This Review describes the molecular regulation of the RAS pathway, presents the clinical consequences of its pathological activation in human cancer, and highlights recent advances towards its therapeutic inhibition, using melanoma as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Al Mahi
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, INSERM U1052 CNRS UMR5286, Tumor Escape, Resistance and Immunity Department, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Julien Ablain
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Centre Léon Bérard, INSERM U1052 CNRS UMR5286, Tumor Escape, Resistance and Immunity Department, 69008 Lyon, France
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8
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Rahman S, Garrel S, Gerber M, Maitra R, Goel S. Therapeutic Targets of KRAS in Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6233. [PMID: 34944853 PMCID: PMC8699097 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have a 5-year overall survival of less than 10%. Approximately 45% of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer harbor KRAS mutations. These mutations not only carry a predictive role for the absence of response to anti-EGFR therapy, but also have a negative prognostic impact on the overall survival. There is a growing unmet need for a personalized therapy approach for patients with KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer. In this article, we focus on the therapeutic strategies targeting KRAS- mutant CRC, while reviewing and elaborating on the discovery and physiology of KRAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafia Rahman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1695 Eastchester Road Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; (S.R.); (R.M.)
| | - Shimon Garrel
- Department of Biology, Lander College For Men, 75-31 150th Street, Flushing, New York, NY 11367, USA;
| | - Michael Gerber
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, 500 West 185th Street, New York, NY 10033, USA;
| | - Radhashree Maitra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1695 Eastchester Road Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; (S.R.); (R.M.)
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, 500 West 185th Street, New York, NY 10033, USA;
| | - Sanjay Goel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1695 Eastchester Road Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; (S.R.); (R.M.)
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9
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Roskoski R. Blockade of mutant RAS oncogenic signaling with a special emphasis on KRAS. Pharmacol Res 2021; 172:105806. [PMID: 34450320 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RAS proteins (HRAS, KRAS, NRAS) participate in many physiological signal transduction processes related to cell growth, division, and survival. The RAS proteins are small (188/189 amino acid residues) and they function as GTPases. These proteins toggle between inactive and functional forms; the conversion of inactive RAS-GDP to active RAS-GTP as mediated by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) turns the switch on and the intrinsic RAS-GTPase activity stimulated by the GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) turns the switch off. RAS is upstream to the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK and the PI3-kinase-AKT signaling modules. Importantly, the overall incidence of RAS mutations in all cancers is about 19% and RAS mutants have been a pharmacological target for more than three decades. About 84% of all RAS mutations involve KRAS. Except for the GTP/GDP binding site, the RAS proteins lack other deep surface pockets thereby hindering efforts to identify high-affinity antagonists; thus, they have been considered to be undruggable. KRAS mutations frequently occur in lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, the three most deadly cancers in the United States. Studies within the last decade demonstrated that the covalent modification of KRAS C12, which accounts for about 10% of all RAS mutations, led to the discovery of an adjacent pocket (called the switch II pocket) that accommodated a portion of the drug. This led to the development of sotorasib as a second-line treatment of KRASG12C-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. Considerable effort also has been expended to develop MAP kinase and PI3-kinase pathway inhibitors as indirect RAS antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Roskoski
- Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research, 3754 Brevard Road, Suite 106, Box 19, Horse Shoe, NC 28742-8814, United States.
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10
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Coley AB, Ward A, Keeton AB, Chen X, Maxuitenko Y, Prakash A, Li F, Foote JB, Buchsbaum DJ, Piazza GA. Pan-RAS inhibitors: Hitting multiple RAS isozymes with one stone. Adv Cancer Res 2021; 153:131-168. [PMID: 35101229 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the three RAS oncogenes are present in approximately 30% of all human cancers that drive tumor growth and metastasis by aberrant activation of RAS-mediated signaling. Despite the well-established role of RAS in tumorigenesis, past efforts to develop small molecule inhibitors have failed for various reasons leading many to consider RAS as "undruggable." Advances over the past decade with KRAS(G12C) mutation-specific inhibitors have culminated in the first FDA-approved RAS drug, sotorasib. However, the patient population that stands to benefit from KRAS(G12C) inhibitors is inherently limited to those patients harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations. Additionally, both intrinsic and acquired mechanisms of resistance have been reported that indicate allele-specificity may afford disadvantages. For example, the compensatory activation of uninhibited wild-type (WT) NRAS and HRAS isozymes can rescue cancer cells harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations from allele-specific inhibition or the occurrence of other mutations in KRAS. It is therefore prudent to consider alternative drug discovery strategies that may overcome these potential limitations. One such approach is pan-RAS inhibition, whereby all RAS isozymes co-expressed in the tumor cell population are targeted by a single inhibitor to block constitutively activated RAS regardless of the underlying mutation. This chapter provides a review of past and ongoing strategies to develop pan-RAS inhibitors in detail and seeks to outline the trajectory of this promising strategy of RAS inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B Coley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Antonio Ward
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Adam B Keeton
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Yulia Maxuitenko
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Aishwarya Prakash
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Jeremy B Foote
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Gary A Piazza
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.
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11
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Thompson MK, Gale D, Brenton JD. Circulating tumour DNA for clinicians: current and future clinical applications. Clin Radiol 2021; 76:737-747. [PMID: 34389159 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review introduces clinicians to the basic concepts of the biology of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), which is required to understand clinical use of ctDNA technology. We provide an overview of how new technology has improved the sensitivity of ctDNA detection over the last decade and the available techniques for ctDNA analysis including whole-genome sequencing (WGS), targeted cancer-associated gene panels, and methylation analysis. We discuss the most recent evidence from clinical trials for ctDNA in patient care including precision treatment of advanced cancers, disease monitoring, improving adjuvant treatment, and screening for early detection of cancer. Finally, we outline how ctDNA is likely to directly impact radiologists, and identify further research required for ctDNA to progress into routine clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Thompson
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK; Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK; Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.
| | - D Gale
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK; Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
| | - J D Brenton
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK; Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK; Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
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12
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40 Years of RAS-A Historic Overview. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050681. [PMID: 34062774 PMCID: PMC8147265 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been over forty years since the isolation of the first human oncogene (HRAS), a crucial milestone in cancer research made possible through the combined efforts of a few selected research groups at the beginning of the 1980s. Those initial discoveries led to a quantitative leap in our understanding of cancer biology and set up the onset of the field of molecular oncology. The following four decades of RAS research have produced a huge pool of new knowledge about the RAS family of small GTPases, including how they regulate signaling pathways controlling many cellular physiological processes, or how oncogenic mutations trigger pathological conditions, including developmental syndromes or many cancer types. However, despite the extensive body of available basic knowledge, specific effective treatments for RAS-driven cancers are still lacking. Hopefully, recent advances involving the discovery of novel pockets on the RAS surface as well as highly specific small-molecule inhibitors able to block its interaction with effectors and/or activators may lead to the development of new, effective treatments for cancer. This review intends to provide a quick, summarized historical overview of the main milestones in RAS research spanning from the initial discovery of the viral RAS oncogenes in rodent tumors to the latest attempts at targeting RAS oncogenes in various human cancers.
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13
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Abstract
The name of the oncogene, ras, has its origin in studies of murine leukemia viruses in the 1960s by Jenny Harvey (H-ras) and by Werner Kirsten (K-ras) which, at high doses, produced sarcomas in rats. Transforming retroviruses were isolated, and its oncogene was named ras after rat sarcoma. From 1979, cellular ras sequences with transforming properties were identified by transfection of tumor DNA initially by Robert Weinberg from rodent tumors, and the isolation of homologous oncogenes from human tumors soon followed, including HRAS and KRAS, and a new member of the family named NRAS. I review these discoveries, placing emphasis on the pioneering research of Christopher Marshall and Alan Hall, who subsequently made immense contributions to our understanding of the functions of RAS and related small GTPases to signal transduction pathways, cell structure, and the behavior of normal and malignant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin A Weiss
- Division of Infection & Immunity, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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14
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Pilla L, Alberti A, Di Mauro P, Gemelli M, Cogliati V, Cazzaniga ME, Bidoli P, Maccalli C. Molecular and Immune Biomarkers for Cutaneous Melanoma: Current Status and Future Prospects. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3456. [PMID: 33233603 PMCID: PMC7699774 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in the genomic, molecular and immunological make-up of melanoma allowed the development of novel targeted therapy and of immunotherapy, leading to changes in the paradigm of therapeutic interventions and improvement of patients' overall survival. Nevertheless, the mechanisms regulating either the responsiveness or the resistance of melanoma patients to therapies are still mostly unknown. The development of either the combinations or of the sequential treatment of different agents has been investigated but without a strongly molecularly motivated rationale. The need for robust biomarkers to predict patients' responsiveness to defined therapies and for their stratification is still unmet. Progress in immunological assays and genomic techniques as long as improvement in designing and performing studies monitoring the expression of these markers along with the evolution of the disease allowed to identify candidate biomarkers. However, none of them achieved a definitive role in predicting patients' clinical outcomes. Along this line, the cross-talk of melanoma cells with tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the evolution of the disease and needs to be considered in light of the role of predictive biomarkers. The overview of the relationship between the molecular basis of melanoma and targeted therapies is provided in this review, highlighting the benefit for clinical responses and the limitations. Moreover, the role of different candidate biomarkers is described together with the technical approaches for their identification. The provided evidence shows that progress has been achieved in understanding the molecular basis of melanoma and in designing advanced therapeutic strategies. Nevertheless, the molecular determinants of melanoma and their role as biomarkers predicting patients' responsiveness to therapies warrant further investigation with the vision of developing more effective precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Pilla
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Andrea Alberti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Health Science and Public Health, University of Brescia, ASST Ospedali Civili, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Pierluigi Di Mauro
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Maria Gemelli
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Viola Cogliati
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Marina Elena Cazzaniga
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Paolo Bidoli
- Division of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca School of Medicine, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.D.M.); (M.G.); (V.C.); (M.E.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Cristina Maccalli
- Laboratory of Immune and Biological Therapy, Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar;
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15
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Hodge RG, Schaefer A, Howard SV, Der CJ. RAS and RHO family GTPase mutations in cancer: twin sons of different mothers? Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:386-407. [PMID: 32838579 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1810622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The RAS and RHO family comprise two major branches of the RAS superfamily of small GTPases. These proteins function as regulated molecular switches and control cytoplasmic signaling networks that regulate a diversity of cellular processes, including cell proliferation and cell migration. In the early 1980s, mutationally activated RAS genes encoding KRAS, HRAS and NRAS were discovered in human cancer and now comprise the most frequently mutated oncogene family in cancer. Only recently, exome sequencing studies identified cancer-associated alterations in two RHO family GTPases, RAC1 and RHOA. RAS and RHO proteins share significant identity in their amino acid sequences, protein structure and biochemistry. Cancer-associated RAS mutant proteins harbor missense mutations that are found primarily at one of three mutational hotspots (G12, G13 and Q61) and have been identified as gain-of-function oncogenic alterations. Although these residues are conserved in RHO family proteins, the gain-of-function mutations found in RAC1 are found primarily at a distinct hotspot. Unexpectedly, the cancer-associated mutations found with RHOA are located at different hotspots than those found with RAS. Furthermore, since the RHOA mutations suggested a loss-of-function phenotype, it has been unclear whether RHOA functions as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in cancer development. Finally, whereas RAS mutations are found in a broad spectrum of cancer types, RHOA and RAC1 mutations occur in a highly restricted range of cancer types. In this review, we focus on RHOA missense mutations found in cancer and their role in driving tumorigenesis, with comparisons to cancer-associated mutations in RAC1 and RAS GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard G Hodge
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Antje Schaefer
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sarah V Howard
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Channing J Der
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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16
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Menyhárd DK, Pálfy G, Orgován Z, Vida I, Keserű GM, Perczel A. Structural impact of GTP binding on downstream KRAS signaling. Chem Sci 2020; 11:9272-9289. [PMID: 34094198 PMCID: PMC8161693 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc03441j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic RAS proteins, involved in ∼30% of human tumors, are molecular switches of various signal transduction pathways. Here we apply a new protocol for the NMR study of KRAS in its (inactive) GDP- and (activated) GTP-bound form, allowing a comprehensive analysis of the backbone dynamics of its WT-, G12C- and G12D variants. We found that Tyr32 shows opposite mobility with respect to the backbone of its surroundings: it is more flexible in the GDP-bound form while more rigid in GTP-complexes (especially in WT- and G12D-GTP). Using the G12C/Y32F double mutant, we showed that the presence of the hydroxyl group of Tyr32 has a marked effect on the G12C-KRAS-GTP system as well. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that Tyr32 is linked to the γ-phosphate of GTP in the activated states – an arrangement shown, using QM/MM calculations, to support catalysis. Anchoring Tyr32 to the γ-phosphate contributes to the capture of the catalytic waters participating in the intrinsic hydrolysis of GTP and supports a simultaneous triple proton transfer step (catalytic water → assisting water → Tyr32 → O1G of the γ-phosphate) leading to straightforward product formation. The coupled flip of negatively charged residues of switch I toward the inside of the effector binding pocket potentiates ligand recognition, while positioning of Thr35 to enter the coordination sphere of the Mg2+ widens the pocket. Position 12 mutations do not disturb the capture of Tyr32 by the γ-phosphate, but (partially) displace Gln61, which opens up the catalytic pocket and destabilizes catalytic water molecules thus impairing intrinsic hydrolysis. Nucleotide exchange to the physiological, activated, GTP-bound form of KRAS results in the anchoring of Tyr32 within the active site.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Dóra K Menyhárd
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology, MTA-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Gyula Pálfy
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology, MTA-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - Zoltán Orgován
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok körútja 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - István Vida
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology, MTA-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - György M Keserű
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences Magyar tudósok körútja 2 1117 Budapest Hungary
| | - András Perczel
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology, MTA-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A 1117 Budapest Hungary
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17
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Lin CC, Kuo IY, Wu LT, Kuan WH, Liao SY, Jen J, Yang YE, Tang CW, Chen YR, Wang YC. Dysregulated Kras/YY1/ZNF322A/Shh transcriptional axis enhances neo-angiogenesis to promote lung cancer progression. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:10001-10015. [PMID: 32929330 PMCID: PMC7481419 DOI: 10.7150/thno.47491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis enhances cancer metastasis and progression, however, the roles of transcription regulation in angiogenesis are not fully defined. ZNF322A is an oncogenic zinc-finger transcription factor. Here, we demonstrate a new mechanism of Kras mutation-driven ZNF322A transcriptional activation and elucidate the interplay between ZNF322A and its upstream transcriptional regulators and downstream transcriptional targets in promoting neo-angiogenesis. Methods: Luciferase activity, RT-qPCR and ChIP-qPCR assays were used to examine transcription regulation in cell models. In vitro and in vivo angiogenesis assays were conducted. Immunohistochemistry, Kaplan-Meier method and multivariate Cox regression assays were performed to examine the clinical correlation in tumor specimens from lung cancer patients. Results: We validated that Yin Yang 1 (YY1) upregulated ZNF322A expression through targeting its promoter in the context of Kras mutation. Reconstitution experiments by knocking down YY1 under KrasG13V activation decreased KrasG13V-promoted cancer cell migration, proliferation and ZNF322A promoter activity. Knockdown of YY1 or ZNF322A attenuated angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Notably, we validated that ZNF322A upregulated the expression of sonic hedgehog (Shh) gene which encodes a secreted factor that activates pro-angiogenic responses in endothelial cells. Clinically, ZNF322A protein expression positively correlated with Shh and CD31, an endothelial cell marker, in 133 lung cancer patient samples determined using immunohistochemistry analysis. Notably, patients with concordantly high expression of ZNF322A, Shh and CD31 correlated with poor prognosis. Conclusions: These findings highlight the mechanism by which dysregulation of Kras/YY1/ZNF322/Shh transcriptional axis enhances neo-angiogenesis and cancer progression in lung cancer. Therapeutic strategies that target Kras/YY1/ZNF322A/Shh signaling axis may provide new insight on targeted therapy for lung cancer patients.
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18
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Abstract
RAS was identified as a human oncogene in the early 1980s and subsequently found to be mutated in nearly 30% of all human cancers. More importantly, RAS plays a central role in driving tumor development and maintenance. Despite decades of effort, there remain no FDA approved drugs that directly inhibit RAS. The prevalence of RAS mutations in cancer and the lack of effective anti-RAS therapies stem from RAS' core role in growth factor signaling, unique structural features, and biochemistry. However, recent advances have brought promising new drugs to clinical trials and shone a ray of hope in the field. Here, we will exposit the details of RAS biology that illustrate its key role in cell signaling and shed light on the difficulties in therapeutically targeting RAS. Furthermore, past and current efforts to develop RAS inhibitors will be discussed in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Matthew Rhett
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - John P O'Bryan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States.
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19
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Yang K, Oak AS, Slominski RM, Brożyna AA, Slominski AT. Current Molecular Markers of Melanoma and Treatment Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103535. [PMID: 32429485 PMCID: PMC7278971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a deadly skin cancer that becomes especially difficult to treat after it metastasizes. Timely identification of melanoma is critical for effective therapy, but histopathologic diagnosis can frequently pose a significant challenge to this goal. Therefore, auxiliary diagnostic tools are imperative to facilitating prompt recognition of malignant lesions. Melanoma develops as result of a number of genetic mutations, with UV radiation often acting as a mutagenic risk factor. Novel methods of genetic testing have improved detection of these molecular alterations, which subsequently revealed important information for diagnosis and prognosis. Rapid detection of genetic alterations is also significant for choosing appropriate treatment and developing targeted therapies for melanoma. This review will delve into the understanding of various mutations and the implications they may pose for clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Yang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (K.Y.); (A.S.O.)
| | - Allen S.W. Oak
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (K.Y.); (A.S.O.)
| | - Radomir M. Slominski
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Anna A. Brożyna
- Department of Human Biology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
| | - Andrzej T. Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (K.Y.); (A.S.O.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Veteran Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Correspondence:
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20
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Lanfredini S, Thapa A, O'Neill E. RAS in pancreatic cancer. Biochem Soc Trans 2019; 47:961-972. [PMID: 31341034 DOI: 10.1042/bst20170521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The pancreas is a gland composed mainly by endocrine and exocrine cells, giving rise to three main tumour types. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour or PNET arise from the endocrine portion of the pancreas. On the contrary, pancreatic exocrine neoplasms include pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and acinar cell carcinoma. PDAC is the most common type of pancreatic cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. It has been shown that less than 3% of PDAC patients have an overall survival of up to 5 years in the U.K. This mainly arises since the majority of patients diagnosed with PDAC present with advanced unresectable disease, which is highly resistant to all forms of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Activating mutations of an isoform of the RAS protein, KRAS, are found in almost all PDAC cases and occur during early stages of malignant transformation. KRAS mutations play a critical role as they are involved in both initiating and maintaining PDAC development. The interaction of RAS with GDP/GTP along with its recruitment to the membrane affects transduction of its activating signals to downstream effectors. In this review, we aim to summarise different mutations of RAS and their prevalence in pancreatic cancer along with other RAS-induced tumours. In addition, we briefly discuss the genetically engineered mouse models that have been developed to study KRAS-mutated adenocarcinomas in the pancreas. These provide an opportunity to also address the importance of targeting RAS for better treatment response in PDAC patients along with the challenges incurred herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Lanfredini
- Department of Oncology, Old Road Campus Research Building Roosevelt Drive, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K
| | - Asmita Thapa
- Department of Oncology, Old Road Campus Research Building Roosevelt Drive, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K
| | - Eric O'Neill
- Department of Oncology, Old Road Campus Research Building Roosevelt Drive, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K.
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21
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Murugan AK, Grieco M, Tsuchida N. RAS mutations in human cancers: Roles in precision medicine. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 59:23-35. [PMID: 31255772 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ras proteins play a crucial role as a central component of the cellular networks controlling a variety of signaling pathways that regulate growth, proliferation, survival, differentiation, adhesion, cytoskeletal rearrangements and motility of a cell. Almost, 4 decades passed since Ras research was started and ras genes were originally discovered as retroviral oncogenes. Later on, mutations of the human RAS genes were linked to tumorigenesis. Genetic analyses found that RAS is one of the most deregulated oncogenes in human cancers. In this review, we summarize the pioneering works which allowed the discovery of RAS oncogenes, the finding of frequent mutations of RAS in various human cancers, the role of these mutations in tumorigenesis and mutation-activated signaling networks. We further describe the importance of RAS mutations in personalized or precision medicine particularly in molecular targeted therapy, as well as their use as diagnostic and prognostic markers as therapeutic determinants in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avaniyapuram Kannan Murugan
- Department of Molecular Cellular Oncology and Microbiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549 Japan.
| | - Michele Grieco
- DiSTABiF, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università di Napoli, via Vivaldi 43, Caserta 81100 Italy
| | - Nobuo Tsuchida
- Department of Molecular Cellular Oncology and Microbiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549 Japan.
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22
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Fakhouri AS, Weist JL, Tomusko AR, Leight JL. High-Throughput Three-Dimensional Hydrogel Cell Encapsulation Assay for Measuring Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2019; 17:100-115. [PMID: 30958702 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2018.877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems more closely mimic the in vivo cellular microenvironment than traditional two-dimensional cell culture methods, making them a valuable tool in drug screening assays. However, 3D environments often make analysis of cellular responses more difficult, so most high-throughput (HT) 3D assays have been limited to measurements of cell viability. Yet, many other cell functions contribute to disease and are important pharmacological targets. Therefore, there is a need for new technologies that enable HT measurements of a wider range of cell functions for drug screening. Here, we have adapted a hydrogel system that enables cells to be cultured in a 3D environment and allows for the simultaneous detection of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and metabolic activities. This system was then characterized for utility in HT screening approaches. MMPs are critical regulators of tissue homeostasis and are upregulated in many diseases, such as arthritis and cancer. The developed assay achieved Z'-factor values above 0.9 and 0.5 for enzymatic and cellular assays, respectively, intraplate coefficients of variation (%CV) below 10% and 12%, respectively, and signal measurement was unaffected by dimethyl sulfoxide, a common solvent of therapeutic compounds. Human MMP-1, -2, and -9 resulted in a significant increase in signal intensity. Encapsulation of several cell types produced robust signals above background noise and within the linear range of the assay. Multiple drugs that are known to alter MMP activity were utilized in a range of concentrations with a fibrosarcoma cell line to demonstrate the feasibility of the assay for HT applications. This assay combines 3D cellular encapsulation and MMP activity detection in HT format, which makes it suitable for drug screening and development applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz S Fakhouri
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio.,3 Biomedical Technology Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Jessica L Weist
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Anthony R Tomusko
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
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23
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Foo CHJ, Pervaiz S. gRASping the redox lever to modulate cancer cell fate signaling. Redox Biol 2019; 25:101094. [PMID: 30638892 PMCID: PMC6859584 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2018.101094] [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: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
RAS proteins are critical regulators of signaling networks controlling diverse cellular functions such as cell proliferation and survival and its mutation are among the most powerful oncogenic drivers in human cancers. Despite intense efforts, direct RAS-targeting strategies remain elusive due to its "undruggable" nature. To that end, bulk of the research efforts has been directed towards targeting upstream and/or downstream of RAS signaling. However, the therapeutic efficacies of these treatments are limited in the long run due to the acquired drug resistance in RAS-driven cancers. Interestingly, recent studies have uncovered a potential role of RAS in redox-regulation as well as the interplay between ROS and RAS-associated signaling networks during process of cancer initiation and progression. More specifically, these studies provide ample evidence to implicate RAS as a redox-rheostat, manipulating ROS levels to provide a redox-milieu conducive for carcinogenesis. Importantly, the understanding of RAS-ROS interplay could provide us with novel targetable vulnerabilities for designing therapeutic strategies. In this review, we provide a brief summary of the advances in the field to illustrate the dual role of RAS in redox-regulation and its implications in RAS signaling outcomes and also emerging redox-based strategies to target RAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Han Jonathan Foo
- Department of Physiology, YLL School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore; NUS Graduate School of Integrative Sciences and Engineering, NUS, Singapore
| | - Shazib Pervaiz
- Department of Physiology, YLL School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore; Medical Science Cluster Cancer Program, YLL School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore; NUS Graduate School of Integrative Sciences and Engineering, NUS, Singapore; National University Cancer Institute, NUHS, Singapore.
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24
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Román M, Baraibar I, López I, Nadal E, Rolfo C, Vicent S, Gil-Bazo I. KRAS oncogene in non-small cell lung cancer: clinical perspectives on the treatment of an old target. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:33. [PMID: 29455666 PMCID: PMC5817724 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0789-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung neoplasms are the leading cause of death by cancer worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes more than 80% of all lung malignancies and the majority of patients present advanced disease at onset. However, in the last decade, multiple oncogenic driver alterations have been discovered and each of them represents a potential therapeutic target. Although KRAS mutations are the most frequently oncogene aberrations in lung adenocarcinoma patients, effective therapies targeting KRAS have yet to be developed. Moreover, the role of KRAS oncogene in NSCLC remains unclear and its predictive and prognostic impact remains controversial. The study of the underlying biology of KRAS in NSCLC patients could help to determine potential candidates to evaluate novel targeted agents and combinations that may allow a tailored treatment for these patients. The aim of this review is to update the current knowledge about KRAS-mutated lung adenocarcinoma, including a historical overview, the biology of the molecular pathways involved, the clinical relevance of KRAS mutations as a prognostic and predictive marker and the potential therapeutic approaches for a personalized treatment of KRAS-mutated NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Román
- Department of Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Solid Tumors and Biomarkers, Center for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iosune Baraibar
- Department of Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Solid Tumors and Biomarkers, Center for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Inés López
- Program of Solid Tumors and Biomarkers, Center for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ernest Nadal
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), L'Hospitalet del Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Rolfo
- Phase I-Early Clinical Phase I-Early Clinical Trials Unit, Oncology Department, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Silvestre Vicent
- Program of Solid Tumors and Biomarkers, Center for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Health Research Institute (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Gil-Bazo
- Department of Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain. .,Program of Solid Tumors and Biomarkers, Center for Applied Medical Research, Pamplona, Spain. .,Navarra Health Research Institute (IDISNA), Pamplona, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain.
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25
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The Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a Model for Understanding RAS Proteins and their Role in Human Tumorigenesis. Cells 2018; 7:cells7020014. [PMID: 29463063 PMCID: PMC5850102 DOI: 10.3390/cells7020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The exploitation of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a biological model for the investigation of complex molecular processes conserved in multicellular organisms, such as humans, has allowed fundamental biological discoveries. When comparing yeast and human proteins, it is clear that both amino acid sequences and protein functions are often very well conserved. One example of the high degree of conservation between human and yeast proteins is highlighted by the members of the RAS family. Indeed, the study of the signaling pathways regulated by RAS in yeast cells led to the discovery of properties that were often found interchangeable with RAS proto-oncogenes in human pathways, and vice versa. In this work, we performed an updated critical literature review on human and yeast RAS pathways, specifically highlighting the similarities and differences between them. Moreover, we emphasized the contribution of studying yeast RAS pathways for the understanding of human RAS and how this model organism can contribute to unveil the roles of RAS oncoproteins in the regulation of mechanisms important in the tumorigenic process, like autophagy.
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26
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Abstract
Our laboratory has studied Ras and Ras-like proteins since the discovery of the Ras oncogene 35 years ago. In this review, I will give an account of what we have done in these 35 years and indicate the main papers that have guided our research. Our efforts started with the early analysis of mutant Ras in human tumors followed by deciphering of the role of Ras in signal transduction pathways. In an attempt to interfere in Ras signaling we turned to Rap proteins. These proteins are the closest relatives of Ras and were initially identified as Ras antagonists. However, our studies revealed that the Rap signaling network primarily is involved in spatiotemporal control of cell adhesion, in part through regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. More recently we returned to Ras, trying to interfere in Ras signaling by combinatorial drug testing using the organoid technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes L Bos
- Molecular Cancer Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
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27
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Spencer-Smith R, O'Bryan JP. Direct inhibition of RAS: Quest for the Holy Grail? Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 54:138-148. [PMID: 29248537 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RAS GTPases (H-, K-, and N-RAS) are the most frequently mutated oncoprotein family in human cancer. However, the relatively smooth surface architecture of RAS and its picomolar affinity for nucleotide have given rise to the assumption that RAS is an "undruggable" target. Recent advancements in drug screening, molecular modeling, and a greater understanding of RAS function have led to a resurgence in efforts to pharmacologically target this challenging foe. This review focuses on the state of the art of RAS inhibition, the approaches taken to achieve this goal, and the challenges of translating these discoveries into viable therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Spencer-Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John P O'Bryan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
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28
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Zhang HF, Wang KH. Effect of KRAS mutation status on efficacy of EGFR monoclonal antibody treatment in colorectal cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2016; 24:2850-2855. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v24.i18.2850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors. With the development of economy and the improvement of living standard in China, which have resulted in great changes in lifestyle and eating habits, the incidence of colorectal cancer has increased year by year. Among all treatments currently available, targeted therapy is considered to be the most ideal treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. KRAS mutation is closely related to the efficacy of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer. Thus, it is important to clarify the KRAS mutation status before targeted therapy is considered. This paper mainly elaborates the effect of KRAS mutation status on the efficacy of epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody treatment of colorectal cancer with regard to the structure and function of KRAS gene, KRAS mutations and heterogeneity.
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Zhang F, Cheong JK. The renewed battle against RAS-mutant cancers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:1845-58. [PMID: 26892781 PMCID: PMC11108322 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2155-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The RAS genes encode for members of a large superfamily of guanosine-5'-triphosphate (GTP)-binding proteins that control diverse intracellular signaling pathways to promote cell proliferation. Somatic mutations in the RAS oncogenes are the most common activating lesions found in human cancers. These mutations invariably result in the gain-of-function of RAS by impairing GTP hydrolysis and are frequently associated with poor responses to standard cancer therapies. In this review, we summarize key findings of past and present landmark studies that have deepened our understanding of the RAS biology in the context of oncogenesis. We also discuss how emerging areas of research could further bolster a renewed global effort to target the largely undruggable oncogenic RAS and/or its activated downstream effector signaling cascades to achieve better treatment outcomes for RAS-mutant cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuquan Zhang
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Jit Kong Cheong
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
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Jenkins RW, Sullivan RJ. NRAS mutant melanoma: an overview for the clinician for melanoma management. Melanoma Manag 2016; 3:47-59. [PMID: 30190872 PMCID: PMC6097550 DOI: 10.2217/mmt.15.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and the incidence continues to rise in the United States and worldwide. Activating mutations in RAS oncogenes are found in roughly a third of all human cancers. Mutations in NRAS occur in approximately a fifth of cutaneous melanomas and are associated with aggressive clinical behavior. Cells harboring oncogenic NRAS mutations exhibit activation of multiple signaling cascades, including PI3K/Akt, MEK-ERK and RAL, which collectively stimulate cancer growth. While strategies to target N-Ras itself have proven ineffective, targeting one or more N-Ras effector pathways has shown promise in preclinical models. Despite promising preclinical data, current therapies for NRAS mutant melanoma remain limited. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies for BRAF mutant melanoma are transforming the treatment of metastatic melanoma, but the ideal treatment for NRAS mutant melanoma remains unknown. Improved understanding of NRAS mutant melanoma and relevant N-Ras effector signaling modules will be essential to develop new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan J Sullivan
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy originating from the calcitonin-secreting parafollicular thyroid C cells. Approximately 75% of cases are sporadic. Rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene plays a crucial role in MTC development. Besides RET, other oncogenes commonly involved in the pathogenesis of human cancers have also been investigated in MTC. The family of human RAS genes includes the highly homologous HRAS, KRAS, and NRAS genes that encode three distinct proteins. Activating mutations in specific hotspots of the RAS genes are found in about 30% of all human cancers. In thyroid neoplasias, RAS gene point mutations, mainly in NRAS, are detected in benign and malignant tumors arising from the follicular epithelium. However, recent reports have also described RAS mutations in MTC, namely in HRAS and KRAS. Overall, the prevalence of RAS mutations in sporadic MTC varies between 0-43.3%, occurring usually in tumors with WT RET and rarely in those harboring a RET mutation, suggesting that activation of these proto-oncogenes represents alternative genetic events in sporadic MTC tumorigenesis. Thus, the assessment of RAS mutation status can be useful to define therapeutic strategies in RET WT MTC. MTC patients with RAS mutations have an intermediate risk for aggressive cancer, between those with RET mutations in exons 15 and 16, which are associated with the worst prognosis, and cases with other RET mutations, which have the most indolent course of the disease. Recent results from exome sequencing indicate that, besides mutations in RET, HRAS, and KRAS, no other recurrent driver mutations are present in MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida M Moura
- Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM)Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalServiço de EndocrinologiaInstituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalClínica Universitária de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1150-228 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Branca M Cavaco
- Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM)Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalServiço de EndocrinologiaInstituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalClínica Universitária de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1150-228 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Valeriano Leite
- Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM)Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalServiço de EndocrinologiaInstituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalClínica Universitária de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1150-228 Lisboa, Portugal Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM)Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalServiço de EndocrinologiaInstituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalClínica Universitária de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1150-228 Lisboa, Portugal Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM)Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalServiço de EndocrinologiaInstituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Rua Prof. Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, PortugalClínica Universitária de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria 130, 1150-228 Lisboa, Portugal
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
On May 3 of this year, cell biology lost a giant with the untimely passing of Alan Hall (Fig. 1). Alan didn't discover the Rho family of GTPases but, more than anyone else, he and his laboratory brought these key regulatory proteins to the prominent position that they now occupy. I first met Alan in the early 1990s shortly after his landmark papers with Anne Ridley were published (Ridley and Hall, 1992; Ridley et al., 1992). Over the years our interests frequently overlapped, we met often at conferences and became friends. Ultimately, we became collaborators, each of us directing projects within a Program Project Grant that is headed by Klaus Hahn, and that also includes Gaudenz Danuser and John Sondek. Shortly before his death we had been in conversation about this grant and were discussing when we would next get together as a group. I was looking forward to seeing him again, not only because I enjoyed his company but because I always learned something new from every interaction. Other obituaries have covered Alan Hall's career, research accomplishments and service to the research community, such as being Chair of Cell Biology at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Cell Biology. Here, I wish to share my perspective on his enormous contribution to the Rho GTPase field, particularly focusing on the decade of the 1990s when he and his laboratory thrust Rho GTPases to the forefront of cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Burridge
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and McAllister Heart Institute, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Sharma SB, Ruppert JM. MicroRNA-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Targeting Mutant and Wild Type RAS in Cancer. Drug Dev Res 2015; 76:328-42. [PMID: 26284568 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRs) have been causally implicated in the progression and development of a wide variety of cancers. miRs modulate the activity of key cell signaling networks by regulating the translation of pathway component proteins. Thus, the pharmacological targeting of miRs that regulate cancer cell signaling networks, either by promoting (using miR-supplementation) or by suppressing (using antisense oligonucleotide-based strategies) miR activity is an area of intense research. The RAS-extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathway represents a major miR-regulated signaling network that endows cells with some of the classical hallmarks of cancer, and is often inappropriately activated in malignancies by somatic genetic alteration through point mutation or alteration of gene copy number. In addition, recent progress indicates that many tumors may be deficient in GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) due to the collaborative action of oncogenic miRs. Recent studies also suggest that in tumors harboring a mutant RAS allele there is a critical role for wild type RAS proteins in determining overall RAS-ERK pathway activity. Together, these two advances comprise a new opportunity for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we evaluate miR-based therapeutic strategies for modulating RAS-ERK signaling in cancers; in particular for more direct modulation of RAS-GTP levels, with the potential to complement current strategies to yield more durable treatment responses. To this end, we discuss the potential for miR-based therapies focused on three prominent miRs including the pan-RAS regulator let-7 and the GAP regulator comprised of miR-206 and miR-21 (miR-206/21).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriganesh B Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.,Program in Cancer Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - John Michael Ruppert
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.,The Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
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Marshall C. From RAS to RHO: The making of the great cell biologist Alan Hall (1952-2015). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 209:481-3. [PMID: 25979981 PMCID: PMC4442819 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201505049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Marshall
- Division of Cancer Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, England, UK
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35
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How do K-RAS-activated cells evade cellular defense mechanisms? Oncogene 2015; 35:827-32. [PMID: 25961920 PMCID: PMC4761642 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinomas, like other cancers, develop through the accumulation of epigenetic and genetic alterations. Numerous studies have shown that K-RAS mutation is among the most important early events in carcinogenesis of the lung. However, it is also well established that growth-stimulating signals feed back into growth-suppressing pathways, and any imbalance in these signaling networks will cause the cell to exit the cell cycle, thereby preventing uncontrolled cell growth. How, then, do K-RAS-activated cells evade cellular defense mechanisms? To answer this question, it is necessary to identify the molecular event(s) responsible for the development of early dysplastic lesions that are unable to defend against aberrant oncogene activation. Lineage-determining transcriptional regulators govern differentiation status during normal lung development, as well as in lung adenocarcinoma. Among the genes involved in K-RAS-induced lung tumorigenesis, RUNX3 is unique: inactivation of Runx3 in mouse lung induces lung adenoma and abrogates the ARF–p53 pathway. This observation raises the possibility of intimate cross-talk between the differentiation program and oncogene surveillance. In this review, we summarized evidences suggesting that K-RAS-activated cells do not evade cellular defense mechanisms per se; instead, cells with K-RAS mutations are selected only if they occur in cells in which defense mechanism is abrogated.
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36
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Cox AD, Der CJ. Ras history: The saga continues. Small GTPases 2014; 1:2-27. [PMID: 21686117 DOI: 10.4161/sgtp.1.1.12178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 506] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2010] [Revised: 05/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the roots of Ras sprouted from the rich history of retrovirus research, it was the discovery of mutationally activated RAS genes in human cancer in 1982 that stimulated an intensive research effort to understand Ras protein structure, biochemistry and biology. While the ultimate goal has been developing anti-Ras drugs for cancer treatment, discoveries from Ras have laid the foundation for three broad areas of science. First, they focused studies on the origins of cancer to the molecular level, with the subsequent discovery of genes mutated in cancer that now number in the thousands. Second, elucidation of the biochemical mechanisms by which Ras facilitates signal transduction established many of our fundamental concepts of how a normal cell orchestrates responses to extracellular cues. Third, Ras proteins are also founding members of a large superfamily of small GTPases that regulate all key cellular processes and established the versatile role of small GTP-binding proteins in biology. We highlight some of the key findings of the last 28 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne D Cox
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC USA
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37
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Sheng-Fowler L, Tu W, Fu H, Murata H, Lanning L, Foseh G, Macauley J, Blair D, Hughes SH, Coffin JM, Lewis AM, Peden K. A mouse strain defective in both T cells and NK cells has enhanced sensitivity to tumor induction by plasmid DNA expressing both activated H-Ras and c-Myc. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108926. [PMID: 25302710 PMCID: PMC4193875 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of safety studies to evaluate the risk of residual cellular DNA in vaccines manufactured in tumorigenic cells, we have been developing in vivo assays to detect and quantify the oncogenic activity of DNA. We generated a plasmid expressing both an activated human H-ras gene and murine c-myc gene and showed that 1 µg of this plasmid, pMSV-T24-H-ras/MSV-c-myc, was capable of inducing tumors in newborn NIH Swiss mice. However, to be able to detect the oncogenicity of dominant activated oncogenes in cellular DNA, a more sensitive system was needed. In this paper, we demonstrate that the newborn CD3 epsilon transgenic mouse, which is defective in both T-cell and NK-cell functions, can detect the oncogenic activity of 25 ng of the circular form of pMSV-T24-H-ras/MSV-c-myc. When this plasmid was inoculated as linear DNA, amounts of DNA as low as 800 pg were capable of inducing tumors. Animals were found that had multiple tumors, and these tumors were independent and likely clonal. These results demonstrate that the newborn CD3 epsilon mouse is highly sensitive for the detection of oncogenic activity of DNA. To determine whether it can detect the oncogenic activity of cellular DNA derived from four human tumor-cell lines (HeLa, A549, HT-1080, and CEM), DNA (100 µg) was inoculated into newborn CD3 epsilon mice both in the presence of 1 µg of linear pMSV-T24-H-ras/MSV-c-myc as positive control and in its absence. While tumors were induced in 100% of mice with the positive-control plasmid, no tumors were induced in mice receiving any of the tumor DNAs alone. These results demonstrate that detection of oncogenes in cellular DNA derived from four human tumor-derived cell lines in this mouse system was not possible; the results also show the importance of including a positive-control plasmid to detect inhibitory effects of the cellular DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sheng-Fowler
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Wei Tu
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Haiqing Fu
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Haruhiko Murata
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Lynda Lanning
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gideon Foseh
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Juliete Macauley
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Donald Blair
- National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stephen H. Hughes
- Frederick Cancer Research Facility, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - John M. Coffin
- Frederick Cancer Research Facility, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
- Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrew M. Lewis
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Keith Peden
- Division of Viral Products, Office of Vaccines Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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38
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Pathania AS, Joshi A, Kumar S, Guru SK, Bhushan S, Sharma PR, Bhat WW, Saxena AK, Singh J, Shah BA, Andotra SS, Taneja SC, Malik FA, Kumar A. Reversal of boswellic acid analog BA145 induced caspase dependent apoptosis by PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and MEK inhibitor PD98059. Apoptosis 2014; 18:1561-73. [PMID: 23948751 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-013-0889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PI3K/Akt and ERK pathways are important for growth and proliferation of many types of cancers. Therefore, PI3K inhibitor LY294002 (LY) and MEK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 (PD) are used to sensitize many types of cancer cell lines to chemotherapeutic agents, where AKT and ERK pathways are over activated. However, in this study, we show for the first time that PD could protect the leukemia cells independent of ERK pathway inhibition, besides, we also report a detailed mechanism for antiapoptotic effect of LY in HL-60 cells against the cytotoxicity induced by a boswellic acid analog BA145. Apoptosis induced by BA145 is accompanied by downregulation of PI3K/Akt and ERK pathways in human myelogenous leukemia HL-60 cells, having activating N-Ras mutation. Both LY and PD protected the cells against mitochondrial stress caused by BA145, and reduced the release of cytochrome c and consequent activation of caspase-9. LY and PD also diminished the activation of caspase-8 without affecting the death receptors. Besides, LY and PD also reversed the caspase dependent DNA damage induced by BA145. Further studies revealed that LY and PD significantly reversed the inhibitory effect of BA145 on cell cycle regulatory proteins by upregulating hyperphosphorylated retinoblastoma, pRB (S795) and downregulating p21 and cyclin E. More importantly, all these events were reversed by caspase inhibition by Z-VAD-fmk, suggesting that both LY and PD act at the level of caspases to diminish the apoptosis induced by BA145. These results indicate that inhibitors of PI3K/Akt and ERK pathways can play dual role and act against chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup S Pathania
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR, New Delhi, India
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Johnson DB, Smalley KSM, Sosman JA. Molecular pathways: targeting NRAS in melanoma and acute myelogenous leukemia. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:4186-92. [PMID: 24895460 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-3270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Successful targeting of specific oncogenic "driver" mutations with small-molecule inhibitors has represented a major advance in cancer therapeutics over the past 10 to 15 years. The most common activating oncogene in human malignancy, RAS (rat sarcoma), has proved to be an elusive target. Activating mutations in RAS induce mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase-AKT pathway signaling and drive malignant progression in up to 30% of cancers. Oncogenic NRAS mutations occur in several cancer types, notably melanoma, acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), and less commonly, colon adenocarcinoma, thyroid carcinoma, and other hematologic malignancies. Although NRAS-mutant tumors have been recalcitrant to targeted therapeutic strategies historically, newer agents targeting MAP/ERK kinase 1 (MEK1)/2 have recently shown signs of clinical efficacy as monotherapy. Combination strategies of MEK inhibitors with other targeted agents have strong preclinical support and are being evaluated in clinical trials. This review discusses the recent preclinical and clinical studies about the role of NRAS in cancer, with a focus on melanoma and AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B Johnson
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; and
| | - Keiran S M Smalley
- Departments of Molecular Oncology and Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jeffrey A Sosman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; and
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40
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Hansen TD, Koepsel JT, Le NN, Nguyen EH, Zorn S, Parlato M, Loveland SG, Schwartz MP, Murphy WL. Biomaterial arrays with defined adhesion ligand densities and matrix stiffness identify distinct phenotypes for tumorigenic and nontumorigenic human mesenchymal cell types. Biomater Sci 2014; 2:745-756. [PMID: 25386339 PMCID: PMC4224020 DOI: 10.1039/c3bm60278h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Here, we aimed to investigate migration of a model tumor cell line (HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells, HT-1080s) using synthetic biomaterials to systematically vary peptide ligand density and substrate stiffness. A range of substrate elastic moduli were investigated by using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel arrays (0.34 - 17 kPa) and self-assembled monolayer (SAM) arrays (~0.1-1 GPa), while cell adhesion was tuned by varying the presentation of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-containing peptides. HT-1080 motility was insensitive to cell adhesion ligand density on RGD-SAMs, as they migrated with similar speed and directionality for a wide range of RGD densities (0.2-5% mol fraction RGD). Similarly, HT-1080 migration speed was weakly dependent on adhesion on 0.34 kPa PEG surfaces. On 13 kPa surfaces, a sharp initial increase in cell speed was observed at low RGD concentration, with no further changes observed as RGD concentration was increased further. An increase in cell speed ~ two-fold for the 13 kPa relative to the 0.34 kPa PEG surface suggested an important role for substrate stiffness in mediating motility, which was confirmed for HT-1080s migrating on variable modulus PEG hydrogels with constant RGD concentration. Notably, despite ~ two-fold changes in cell speed over a wide range of moduli, HT-1080s adopted rounded morphologies on all surfaces investigated, which contrasted with well spread primary human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Taken together, our results demonstrate that HT-1080s are morphologically distinct from primary mesenchymal cells (hMSCs) and migrate with minimal dependence on cell adhesion for surfaces within a wide range of moduli, whereas motility is strongly influenced by matrix mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler D. Hansen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Justin T. Koepsel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ngoc Nhi Le
- Materials Science Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Eric H. Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Stefan Zorn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Matthew Parlato
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Samuel G. Loveland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael P. Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - William L. Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
- Materials Science Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
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41
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Griewank KG, Scolyer RA, Thompson JF, Flaherty KT, Schadendorf D, Murali R. Genetic alterations and personalized medicine in melanoma: progress and future prospects. J Natl Cancer Inst 2014; 106:djt435. [PMID: 24511108 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djt435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing technologies are providing new insights into the genetic alterations involved in melanomagenesis. It appears likely that most genetic events important in the pathogenesis of melanoma will be discovered over the next few years. Genetic analysis is also increasingly being used to direct patient care. In parallel with the discovery of new genes and the elucidation of molecular pathways important in the development of melanoma, therapies targeting these pathways are becoming available. In other words, the age of personalized medicine has arrived, characterized by molecular profiling of melanoma to identify the relevant genetic alterations and the abnormal signaling mechanisms involved, followed by selection of optimal, individualized therapies. In this review, we summarize the key genetic alterations in melanoma and the development of targeted agents against melanomas bearing specific mutations. These developments in melanoma serve as a model for the implementation of personalized medicine for patients with all cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus G Griewank
- Affiliations of authors: Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (KGG, DS); Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia (RAS); University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia (RAS, JFT); Melanoma Institute Australia, North Sydney, NSW, Australia (RAS, JFT); Center for Melanoma, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA (KTF); Department of Pathology, and Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (RM)
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42
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NRAS isoforms differentially affect downstream pathways, cell growth, and cell transformation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:4179-84. [PMID: 24586049 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1401727111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma rat sarcoma (RAS) viral oncogene homolog (NRAS), a small GTPase, is one of the most thoroughly studied oncogenes that controls cell growth, differentiation, and survival by facilitating signal transduction. Here, we identify four novel naturally occurring NRAS isoforms (isoforms 2-5) in addition to the canonical isoform (isoform 1). Expression analyses performed on a panel of several different human malignancies and matching normal tissue revealed distinct isoform expression patterns. Two of the novel isoforms were found in the nucleus and cytoplasm, whereas the others were exclusively cytoplasmic. The isoforms varied in their binding affinities to known downstream targets and differentially regulated the RAS signaling pathway. Strikingly, forced expression of isoform 5, which encodes only a 20-aa peptide, led to increased cell proliferation and to transformation by activation of known NRAS targets. These discoveries open new avenues in the study of NRAS.
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Schwartz MP, Rogers RE, Singh SP, Lee JY, Loveland SG, Koepsel JT, Witze ES, Montanez-Sauri SI, Sung KE, Tokuda EY, Sharma Y, Everhart LM, Nguyen EH, Zaman MH, Beebe DJ, Ahn NG, Murphy WL, Anseth KS. A quantitative comparison of human HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells and primary human dermal fibroblasts identifies a 3D migration mechanism with properties unique to the transformed phenotype. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81689. [PMID: 24349113 PMCID: PMC3857815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe an engineering approach to quantitatively compare migration, morphologies, and adhesion for tumorigenic human fibrosarcoma cells (HT-1080s) and primary human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) with the aim of identifying distinguishing properties of the transformed phenotype. Relative adhesiveness was quantified using self-assembled monolayer (SAM) arrays and proteolytic 3-dimensional (3D) migration was investigated using matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-degradable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels (“synthetic extracellular matrix” or “synthetic ECM”). In synthetic ECM, hDFs were characterized by vinculin-containing features on the tips of protrusions, multipolar morphologies, and organized actomyosin filaments. In contrast, HT-1080s were characterized by diffuse vinculin expression, pronounced β1-integrin on the tips of protrusions, a cortically-organized F-actin cytoskeleton, and quantitatively more rounded morphologies, decreased adhesiveness, and increased directional motility compared to hDFs. Further, HT-1080s were characterized by contractility-dependent motility, pronounced blebbing, and cortical contraction waves or constriction rings, while quantified 3D motility was similar in matrices with a wide range of biochemical and biophysical properties (including collagen) despite substantial morphological changes. While HT-1080s were distinct from hDFs for each of the 2D and 3D properties investigated, several features were similar to WM239a melanoma cells, including rounded, proteolytic migration modes, cortical F-actin organization, and prominent uropod-like structures enriched with β1-integrin, F-actin, and melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM/CD146/MUC18). Importantly, many of the features observed for HT-1080s were analogous to cellular changes induced by transformation, including cell rounding, a disorganized F-actin cytoskeleton, altered organization of focal adhesion proteins, and a weakly adherent phenotype. Based on our results, we propose that HT-1080s migrate in synthetic ECM with functional properties that are a direct consequence of their transformed phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPS); (KSA)
| | - Robert E. Rogers
- College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, United States of America
| | - Samir P. Singh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Justin Y. Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Samuel G. Loveland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Justin T. Koepsel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Eric S. Witze
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, , United States of America
| | - Sara I. Montanez-Sauri
- Materials Science Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Kyung E. Sung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Emi Y. Tokuda
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Yasha Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lydia M. Everhart
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Eric H. Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Muhammad H. Zaman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - David J. Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Natalie G. Ahn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
| | - William L. Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Materials Science Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPS); (KSA)
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Fuentes-Calvo I, Crespo P, Santos E, López-Novoa JM, Martínez-Salgado C. The small GTPase N-Ras regulates extracellular matrix synthesis, proliferation and migration in fibroblasts. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1833:2734-2744. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Loirand G, Sauzeau V, Pacaud P. Small G Proteins in the Cardiovascular System: Physiological and Pathological Aspects. Physiol Rev 2013; 93:1659-720. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Small G proteins exist in eukaryotes from yeast to human and constitute the Ras superfamily comprising more than 100 members. This superfamily is structurally classified into five families: the Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran families that control a wide variety of cell and biological functions through highly coordinated regulation processes. Increasing evidence has accumulated to identify small G proteins and their regulators as key players of the cardiovascular physiology that control a large panel of cardiac (heart rhythm, contraction, hypertrophy) and vascular functions (angiogenesis, vascular permeability, vasoconstriction). Indeed, basal Ras protein activity is required for homeostatic functions in physiological conditions, but sustained overactivation of Ras proteins or spatiotemporal dysregulation of Ras signaling pathways has pathological consequences in the cardiovascular system. The primary object of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current progress in our understanding of the role of small G proteins and their regulators in cardiovascular physiology and pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gervaise Loirand
- INSERM, UMR S1087; University of Nantes; and CHU Nantes, l'Institut du Thorax, Nantes, France
| | - Vincent Sauzeau
- INSERM, UMR S1087; University of Nantes; and CHU Nantes, l'Institut du Thorax, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre Pacaud
- INSERM, UMR S1087; University of Nantes; and CHU Nantes, l'Institut du Thorax, Nantes, France
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Mitrofanov VG, Chekunova AI, Proshakov PA, Barsukov MI. Universal intracellular transducer ras and its role in the development of drosophila. Russ J Dev Biol 2013. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360413040073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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47
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Transforming mutations of RAC guanosine triphosphatases in human cancers. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:3029-34. [PMID: 23382236 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1216141110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the RAS superfamily of small guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) transition between GDP-bound, inactive and GTP-bound, active states and thereby function as binary switches in the regulation of various cellular activities. Whereas HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS frequently acquire transforming missense mutations in human cancer, little is known of the oncogenic roles of other small GTPases, including Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (RAC) proteins. We show that the human sarcoma cell line HT1080 harbors both NRAS(Q61K) and RAC1(N92I) mutant proteins. Whereas both of these mutants were able to transform fibroblasts, knockdown experiments indicated that RAC1(N92I) may be the essential growth driver for this cell line. Screening for RAC1, RAC2, or RAC3 mutations in cell lines and public databases identified several missense mutations for RAC1 and RAC2, with some of the mutant proteins, including RAC1(P29S), RAC1(C157Y), RAC2(P29L), and RAC2(P29Q), being found to be activated and transforming. P29S, N92I, and C157Y mutants of RAC1 were shown to exist preferentially in the GTP-bound state as a result of a rapid transition from the GDP-bound state, rather than as a result of a reduced intrinsic GTPase activity. Activating mutations of RAC GTPases were thus found in a wide variety of human cancers at a low frequency; however, given their marked transforming ability, the mutant proteins are potential targets for the development of new therapeutic agents.
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Systemic perturbation of the ERK signaling pathway by the proteasome inhibitor, MG132. PLoS One 2012; 7:e50975. [PMID: 23226437 PMCID: PMC3511445 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome protein degradation pathway has been identified as a viable strategy for anti-tumor therapy based on its broad effects on cell proliferation. By the same token, the variety of elicited effects confounds the interpretation of cell-based experiments using proteasome inhibitors such as MG132. It has been proposed that MG132 treatment reduces growth factor-stimulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), at least in part through upregulation of dual specificity phosphatases (DUSPs). Here, we show that the effects of MG132 treatment on ERK signaling are more widespread, leading to a reduction in activation of the upstream kinase MEK. This suggests that MG132 systemically perturbs the intracellular phosphoproteome, impacting ERK signaling by reducing phosphorylation status at multiple levels of the kinase cascade.
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Abstract
Retroviruses are the original source of oncogenes. The discovery and characterization of these genes was made possible by the introduction of quantitative cell biological and molecular techniques for the study of tumour viruses. Key features of all retroviral oncogenes were first identified in src, the oncogene of Rous sarcoma virus. These include non-involvement in viral replication, coding for a single protein and cellular origin. The MYC, RAS and ERBB oncogenes quickly followed SRC, and these together with PI3K are now recognized as crucial driving forces in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Vogt
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.
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Genetic and biochemical alterations in non-small cell lung cancer. Biochem Res Int 2012; 2012:940405. [PMID: 22928112 PMCID: PMC3426175 DOI: 10.1155/2012/940405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advances in the detection and treatment of lung cancer, it causes the highest number of cancer-related mortality. Recent advances in the detection of genetic alterations in patient samples along with physiologically relevant animal models has yielded a new understanding of the molecular etiology of lung cancer. This has facilitated the development of potent and specific targeted therapies, based on the genetic and biochemical alterations present in the tumor, especially non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is now clear that heterogeneous cell signaling pathways are disrupted to promote NSCLC, including mutations in critical growth regulatory proteins (K-Ras, EGFR, B-RAF, MEK-1, HER2, MET, EML-4-ALK, KIF5B-RET, and NKX2.1) and inactivation of growth inhibitory pathways (TP53, PTEN, p16, and LKB-1). How these pathways differ between smokers and non-smokers is also important for clinical treatment strategies and development of targeted therapies. This paper describes these molecular targets in NSCLC, and describes the biological significance of each mutation and their potential to act as a therapeutic target.
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