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Zhang J, Fu L, Wang H, Yonemura A, Semba T, Yasuda-Yoshihara N, Nishimura A, Tajiri T, Tong Y, Yasuda T, Uchihara T, Yamazaki M, Okamoto Y, Yamasaki J, Nagano O, Baba H, Ishimoto T. RAC1-mediated integrin alpha-6 expression in E-cadherin-deficient gastric cancer cells promotes interactions with the stroma and peritoneal dissemination. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216901. [PMID: 38641311 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216901] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Diffuse-type gastric cancer (DGC) is a subtype of gastric cancer that is prone to peritoneal dissemination, with poor patient prognosis. Although intercellular adhesion loss between cancer cells is a major characteristic of DGCs, the mechanism underlying the alteration in cell-to-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion is unclear. We investigated how DGCs progress and cause peritoneal dissemination through interactions between DGC cells and the tumour microenvironment (TME). P53 knockout and KRASG12V-expressing (GAN-KP) cells and Cdh1-deleted GAN-KP (GAN-KPC) cells were orthotopically transplanted into the gastric wall to mimic peritoneal dissemination. The GAN-KPC tumour morphology was similar to that of human DGCs containing abundant stroma. RNA sequencing revealed that pathways related to Rho GTPases and integrin-ECM interactions were specifically increased in GAN-KPC cells compared with GAN-KP cells. Notably, we found that Rac Family Small GTPase 1 (RAC1) induces Integrin Subunit Alpha 6 (ITGA6) trafficking, leading to its enrichment on the GC cell membrane. Fibroblasts activate the FAK/AKT pathway in GC cells by mediating extracellular matrix (ECM)-Itga6 interactions, exacerbating the malignant phenotype. In turn, GC cells induce abnormal expression of fibroblast collagen and its transformation into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), resulting in DGC-like subtypes. These findings indicate that Cdh1 gene loss leads to abnormal expression and changes in the subcellular localization of ITGA6 through RAC1 signalling. The latter, through interactions with CAFs, allows for peritoneal dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Lingfeng Fu
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Huaitao Wang
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Atsuko Yonemura
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takashi Semba
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Yasuda-Yoshihara
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Akiho Nishimura
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takuya Tajiri
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yilin Tong
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tadahito Yasuda
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Uchihara
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamazaki
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuya Okamoto
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Juntaro Yamasaki
- Division of Gene Regulation, Cancer Center, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Osamu Nagano
- Division of Gene Regulation, Cancer Center, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Ageing, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takatsugu Ishimoto
- Division of Carcinogenesis, The Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan; Gastrointestinal Cancer Biology, International Research Center of Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
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Bahar ME, Kim HJ, Kim DR. Targeting the RAS/RAF/MAPK pathway for cancer therapy: from mechanism to clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:455. [PMID: 38105263 PMCID: PMC10725898 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01705-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic dissemination of solid tumors, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, underscores the urgent need for enhanced insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying metastasis, chemoresistance, and the mechanistic backgrounds of individuals whose cancers are prone to migration. The most prevalent signaling cascade governed by multi-kinase inhibitors is the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, encompassing the RAS-RAF-MAPK kinase (MEK)-extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) pathway. RAF kinase is a primary mediator of the MAPK pathway, responsible for the sequential activation of downstream targets, such as MEK and the transcription factor ERK, which control numerous cellular and physiological processes, including organism development, cell cycle control, cell proliferation and differentiation, cell survival, and death. Defects in this signaling cascade are associated with diseases such as cancer. RAF inhibitors (RAFi) combined with MEK blockers represent an FDA-approved therapeutic strategy for numerous RAF-mutant cancers, including melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and thyroid cancer. However, the development of therapy resistance by cancer cells remains an important barrier. Autophagy, an intracellular lysosome-dependent catabolic recycling process, plays a critical role in the development of RAFi resistance in cancer. Thus, targeting RAF and autophagy could be novel treatment strategies for RAF-mutant cancers. In this review, we delve deeper into the mechanistic insights surrounding RAF kinase signaling in tumorigenesis and RAFi-resistance. Furthermore, we explore and discuss the ongoing development of next-generation RAF inhibitors with enhanced therapeutic profiles. Additionally, this review sheds light on the functional interplay between RAF-targeted therapies and autophagy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Entaz Bahar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Hyun Joon Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Deok Ryong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Sciences and Institute of Medical Science, Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Jinju, South Korea.
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3
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Kichina JV, Maslov A, Kandel ES. PAK1 and Therapy Resistance in Melanoma. Cells 2023; 12:2373. [PMID: 37830586 PMCID: PMC10572217 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma claims more lives than any other skin malignancy. While primary melanomas are usually cured via surgical excision, the metastatic form of the disease portents a poor prognosis. Decades of intense research has yielded an extensive armamentarium of anti-melanoma therapies, ranging from genotoxic chemo- and radiotherapies to targeted interventions in specific signaling pathways and immune functions. Unfortunately, even the most up-to-date embodiments of these therapies are not curative for the majority of metastatic melanoma patients, and the need to improve their efficacy is widely recognized. Here, we review the reports that implicate p21-regulated kinase 1 (PAK1) and PAK1-related pathways in the response of melanoma to various therapeutic modalities. Ample data suggest that PAK1 may decrease cell sensitivity to programmed cell death, provide additional stimulation to growth-promoting molecular pathways, and contribute to the creation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Accordingly, there is mounting evidence that the concomitant inhibition of PAK1 enhances the potency of various anti-melanoma regimens. Overall, the available information suggests that a safe and effective inhibition of PAK1-dependent molecular processes would enhance the potency of the currently available anti-melanoma treatments, although considerable challenges in implementing such strategies still exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V. Kichina
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Alexei Maslov
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Eugene S. Kandel
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
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4
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Yin G, Huang J, Petela J, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wu J, Liu B, Shi J, Gao Y. Targeting small GTPases: emerging grasps on previously untamable targets, pioneered by KRAS. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:212. [PMID: 37221195 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases including Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran are omnipresent molecular switches in regulating key cellular functions. Their dysregulation is a therapeutic target for tumors, neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, and infection. However, small GTPases have been historically recognized as "undruggable". Targeting KRAS, one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, has only come into reality in the last decade due to the development of breakthrough strategies such as fragment-based screening, covalent ligands, macromolecule inhibitors, and PROTACs. Two KRASG12C covalent inhibitors have obtained accelerated approval for treating KRASG12C mutant lung cancer, and allele-specific hotspot mutations on G12D/S/R have been demonstrated as viable targets. New methods of targeting KRAS are quickly evolving, including transcription, immunogenic neoepitopes, and combinatory targeting with immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the vast majority of small GTPases and hotspot mutations remain elusive, and clinical resistance to G12C inhibitors poses new challenges. In this article, we summarize diversified biological functions, shared structural properties, and complex regulatory mechanisms of small GTPases and their relationships with human diseases. Furthermore, we review the status of drug discovery for targeting small GTPases and the most recent strategic progress focused on targeting KRAS. The discovery of new regulatory mechanisms and development of targeting approaches will together promote drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Johnny Petela
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yuetong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siqi Gong
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bei Liu
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, School of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Yijun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Wang S, Gao X, Li J, Wei S, Shao Y, Yin Y, Zhang D, Tang M. The anticancer effects of curcumin and clinical research progress on its effects on esophageal cancer. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1058070. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1058070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common tumor of the gastrointestinal system and a major threat to human health. The etiology and incidence of EC vary depending on the type of pathology. Owing to the unique physiological structure of the esophagus and the poor biological behavior of EC, the treatment modalities available are limited, and the prognosis of patients is relatively poor. Curcumin is a type of natural phytochemical belonging to the class of phenolic compounds. It exerts favorable anticancer effects on various cancers. A growing body of evidence indicates that curcumin suppresses tumor development and progression by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, thus inducing apoptosis, regulating microRNA expression, reversing multidrug resistance, and inducing sensitivity to the therapeutic effect of chemoradiotherapy. Multiple cellular molecules, growth factors, and genes encoding proteins participating in different signaling pathways interact with each other to contribute to the complex and orderly anticancer effect. The efficacy and safety of curcumin have been established in preclinical studies for EC and clinical trials for other cancers. However, the low bioavailability of curcumin limits its clinical application. Therefore, the modification of curcumin analogs, the combination of curcumin with other drugs or therapies, and the use of novel nanocarriers have been widely investigated to improve the clinical effects of curcumin in EC.
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Ebrahimi N, Kharazmi K, Ghanaatian M, Miraghel SA, Amiri Y, Seyedebrahimi SS, Mobarak H, Yazdani E, Parkhideh S, Hamblin MR, Aref AR. Role of the Wnt and GTPase pathways in breast cancer tumorigenesis and treatment. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2022; 67:11-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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7
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Validation of a small molecule inhibitor of PDE6D-RAS interaction with favorable anti-leukemic effects. Blood Cancer J 2022; 12:64. [PMID: 35422065 PMCID: PMC9010429 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-022-00663-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RAS mutations prevalent in high-risk leukemia have been linked to relapse and chemotherapy resistance. Efforts to directly target RAS proteins have been largely unsuccessful. However, since RAS-mediated transformation is dependent on signaling through the RAS-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (RAC) small GTPase, we hypothesized that targeting RAC may be an effective therapeutic approach in RAS mutated tumors. Here we describe multiple small molecules capable of inhibiting RAC activation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines. One of these, DW0254, also demonstrates promising anti-leukemic activity in RAS-mutated cells. Using chemical proteomics and biophysical methods, we identified the hydrophobic pocket of phosphodiester 6 subunit delta (PDE6D), a known RAS chaperone, as a target for this compound. Inhibition of RAS localization to the plasma membrane upon DW0254 treatment is associated with RAC inhibition through a phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/AKT-dependent mechanism. Our findings provide new insights into the importance of PDE6D-mediated transport for RAS-dependent RAC activation and leukemic cell survival.
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8
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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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9
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Kim J, Jeon YJ, Lim SC, Ryu J, Lee JH, Chang IY, You HJ. Akt-mediated Ephexin1-Ras interaction promotes oncogenic Ras signaling and colorectal and lung cancer cell proliferation. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:1013. [PMID: 34711817 PMCID: PMC8553951 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04332-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRCT Ephexin1 was reported to be highly upregulated by oncogenic Ras, but the functional consequences of this remain poorly understood. Here, we show that Ephexin1 is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and lung cancer (LC) patient tissues. Knockdown of Ephexin1 markedly inhibited the cell growth of CRC and LC cells with oncogenic Ras mutations. Ephexin1 contributes to the positive regulation of Ras-mediated downstream target genes and promotes Ras-induced skin tumorigenesis. Mechanically, Akt phosphorylates Ephexin1 at Ser16 and Ser18 (pSer16/18) and pSer16/18 Ephexin1 then interacts with oncogenic K-Ras to promote downstream MAPK signaling, facilitating tumorigenesis. Furthermore, pSer16/18 Ephexin1 is associated with both an increased tumor grade and metastatic cases of CRC and LC, and those that highly express pSer16/18 exhibit poor overall survival rates. These data indicate that Ephexin1 plays a critical role in the Ras-mediated CRC and LC and pSer16/18 Ephexin1 might be an effective therapeutic target for CRC and LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeeho Kim
- Laboratory of Genomic Instability and Cancer therapeutics, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
- Department of Pharmacology, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
| | - Young Jin Jeon
- Department of Pharmacology, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
| | - Sung-Chul Lim
- Department of Pathology, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
| | - Joohyun Ryu
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, 55912, USA
| | - Jung-Hee Lee
- Laboratory of Genomic Instability and Cancer therapeutics, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea
| | - In-Youb Chang
- Department of Anatomy, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea.
| | - Ho Jin You
- Laboratory of Genomic Instability and Cancer therapeutics, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea.
- Department of Pharmacology, Chosun University School of medicine, 375 Seosuk-Dong, Gwangju, 501-759, South Korea.
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10
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Akt-mediated Ephexin1-Ras interaction promotes oncogenic Ras signaling and colorectal and lung cancer cell proliferation. Cell Death Dis 2021. [PMID: 34711817 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04332-0.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRCT Ephexin1 was reported to be highly upregulated by oncogenic Ras, but the functional consequences of this remain poorly understood. Here, we show that Ephexin1 is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and lung cancer (LC) patient tissues. Knockdown of Ephexin1 markedly inhibited the cell growth of CRC and LC cells with oncogenic Ras mutations. Ephexin1 contributes to the positive regulation of Ras-mediated downstream target genes and promotes Ras-induced skin tumorigenesis. Mechanically, Akt phosphorylates Ephexin1 at Ser16 and Ser18 (pSer16/18) and pSer16/18 Ephexin1 then interacts with oncogenic K-Ras to promote downstream MAPK signaling, facilitating tumorigenesis. Furthermore, pSer16/18 Ephexin1 is associated with both an increased tumor grade and metastatic cases of CRC and LC, and those that highly express pSer16/18 exhibit poor overall survival rates. These data indicate that Ephexin1 plays a critical role in the Ras-mediated CRC and LC and pSer16/18 Ephexin1 might be an effective therapeutic target for CRC and LC.
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11
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Bagheri-Yarmand R, Busaidy NL, McBeath E, Danysh BP, Evans KW, Moss TJ, Akcakanat A, Ng PKS, Knippler CM, Golden JA, Williams MD, Multani AS, Cabanillas ME, Shaw KR, Meric-Bernstam F, Shah MH, Ringel MD, Hofmann MC. RAC1 Alterations Induce Acquired Dabrafenib Resistance in Association with Anaplastic Transformation in a Papillary Thyroid Cancer Patient. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4950. [PMID: 34638434 PMCID: PMC8507731 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BRAF-activating mutations are the most frequent driver mutations in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Targeted inhibitors such as dabrafenib have been used in advanced BRAF-mutated PTC; however, acquired resistance to the drug is common and little is known about other effectors that may play integral roles in this resistance. In addition, the induction of PTC dedifferentiation into highly aggressive KRAS-driven anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) has been reported. We detected a novel RAC1 (P34R) mutation acquired during dabrafenib treatment in a progressive metastatic lesion with ATC phenotype. To identify a potential functional link between this novel mutation and tumor dedifferentiation, we developed a cell line derived from the metastatic lesion and compared its behavior to isogenic cell lines and primary tumor samples. Our data demonstrated that RAC1 mutations induce changes in cell morphology, reorganization of F-actin almost exclusively at the cell cortex, and changes in cell adhesion properties. We also established that RAC1 amplification, with or without mutation, is sufficient to drive cell proliferation and resistance to BRAF inhibition. Further, we identified polyploidy of chromosome 7, which harbors RAC1, in both the metastatic lesion and its derived cell line. Copy number amplification and overexpression of other genes located on this chromosome, such as TWIST1, EGFR, and MET were also detected, which might also lead to dabrafenib resistance. Our study suggests that polyploidy leading to increased expression of specific genes, particularly those located on chromosome 7, should be considered when analyzing aggressive thyroid tumor samples and in further treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rozita Bagheri-Yarmand
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Naifa L. Busaidy
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Elena McBeath
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Brian P. Danysh
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Kurt W. Evans
- Department of Investigative Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.W.E.); (A.A.); (P.K.S.N.); (K.R.S.); (F.M.-B.)
| | - Tyler J. Moss
- Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Argun Akcakanat
- Department of Investigative Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.W.E.); (A.A.); (P.K.S.N.); (K.R.S.); (F.M.-B.)
| | - Patrick K. S. Ng
- Department of Investigative Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.W.E.); (A.A.); (P.K.S.N.); (K.R.S.); (F.M.-B.)
| | - Christina M. Knippler
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (C.M.K.); (M.D.R.)
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jalyn A. Golden
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Michelle D. Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Asha S. Multani
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Maria E. Cabanillas
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
| | - Kenna R. Shaw
- Department of Investigative Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.W.E.); (A.A.); (P.K.S.N.); (K.R.S.); (F.M.-B.)
| | - Funda Meric-Bernstam
- Department of Investigative Cancer Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (K.W.E.); (A.A.); (P.K.S.N.); (K.R.S.); (F.M.-B.)
| | - Manisha H. Shah
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Matthew D. Ringel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (C.M.K.); (M.D.R.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Marie Claude Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (R.B.-Y.); (N.L.B.); (E.M.); (B.P.D.); (J.A.G.); (M.E.C.)
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12
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Vivekanandhan S, Madamsetty VS, Angom RS, Dutta SK, Wang E, Caulfield T, Pletnev AA, Upstill-Goddard R, Asmann YW, Chang D, Spaller MR, Mukhopadhyay D. Role of PLEXIND1/TGFβ Signaling Axis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Progression Correlates with the Mutational Status of KRAS. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164048. [PMID: 34439202 PMCID: PMC8393884 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer is among the most lethal cancers. The expression of PLEXIND1, a receptor, is upregulated in many cancers (including pancreatic cancer). Traditionally, PLEXIND1 is known to be involved in neuron development and mediate semaphorin signaling. However, its role and signaling in cancer is not fully understood. In our study, we present a new mechanism through which PLEXIND1 mediates its roles in cancer. For the first time, we demonstrate that it can function as a transforming growth factor beta coreceptor and modulate SMAD3 signaling. Around 90% of pancreatic cancer patients have mutant KRAS. Our work suggests that PLEXIND1 functions differently in pancreatic cancer cell lines, and the difference correlates with KRAS mutational status. Additionally, we demonstrate a novel peptide based therapeutic approach to target PLEXIND1 in cancer cells. Our work is valuable to both neuroscience and cancer fields, as it demonstrates an association between two previously unrelated signaling pathways. Abstract PLEXIND1 is upregulated in several cancers, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is an established mediator of semaphorin signaling, and neuropilins are its known coreceptors. Herein, we report data to support the proposal that PLEXIND1 acts as a transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) coreceptor, modulating cell growth through SMAD3 signaling. Our findings demonstrate that PLEXIND1 plays a pro-tumorigenic role in PDAC cells with oncogenic KRAS (KRASmut). We show in KRASmut PDAC cell lines (PANC-1, AsPC-1,4535) PLEXIND1 downregulation results in decreased cell viability (in vitro) and reduced tumor growth (in vivo). Conversely, PLEXIND1 acts as a tumor suppressor in the PDAC cell line (BxPC-3) with wild-type KRAS (KRASwt), as its reduced expression results in higher cell viability (in-vitro) and tumor growth (in vivo). Additionally, we demonstrate that PLEXIND1-mediated interactions can be selectively disrupted using a peptide based on its C-terminal sequence (a PDZ domain-binding motif), an outcome that may possess significant therapeutic implications. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing that (1) PLEXIND1 acts as a TGFβ coreceptor and mediates SMAD3 signaling, and (2) differential roles of PLEXIND1 in PDAC cell lines correlate with KRASmut and KRASwt status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Vivekanandhan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Vijay S. Madamsetty
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Ramcharan Singh Angom
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Shamit Kumar Dutta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Enfeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Thomas Caulfield
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
| | - Alexandre A. Pletnev
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (A.A.P.); (M.R.S.)
| | - Rosanna Upstill-Goddard
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate Switchback Road, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK; (R.U.-G.); (D.C.)
| | - Yan W. Asmann
- Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
| | - David Chang
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate Switchback Road, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK; (R.U.-G.); (D.C.)
| | - Mark R. Spaller
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (A.A.P.); (M.R.S.)
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
- Division of Natural and Applied Sciences, Duke Kunshan University, Kunshan 215316, China
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; (S.V.); (V.S.M.); (R.S.A.); (S.K.D.); (E.W.); (T.C.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Morshedi K, Borran S, Ebrahimi MS, Masoud Khooy MJ, Seyedi ZS, Amiri A, Abbasi-Kolli M, Fallah M, Khan H, Sahebkar A, Mirzaei H. Therapeutic effect of curcumin in gastrointestinal cancers: A comprehensive review. Phytother Res 2021; 35:4834-4897. [PMID: 34173992 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a high global prevalence are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, there is a great need to develop efficient therapeutic approaches. Curcumin, a naturally occurring agent, is a promising compound with documented safety and anticancer activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the activity of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of different cancers. According to systematic studies on curcumin use in various diseases, it can be particularly effective in GI cancers because of its high bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. Nevertheless, the clinical applications of curcumin are largely limited because of its low solubility and low chemical stability in water. These limitations may be addressed by the use of relevant analogues or novel delivery systems. Herein, we summarize the pharmacological effects of curcumin against GI cancers. Moreover, we highlight the application of curcumin's analogues and novel delivery systems in the treatment of GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korosh Morshedi
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Sarina Borran
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Zeynab Sadat Seyedi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Amiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbasi-Kolli
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Fallah
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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14
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Soriano O, Alcón-Pérez M, Vicente-Manzanares M, Castellano E. The Crossroads between RAS and RHO Signaling Pathways in Cellular Transformation, Motility and Contraction. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060819. [PMID: 34071831 PMCID: PMC8229961 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras and Rho proteins are GTP-regulated molecular switches that control multiple signaling pathways in eukaryotic cells. Ras was among the first identified oncogenes, and it appears mutated in many forms of human cancer. It mainly promotes proliferation and survival through the MAPK pathway and the PI3K/AKT pathways, respectively. However, the myriad proteins close to the plasma membrane that activate or inhibit Ras make it a major regulator of many apparently unrelated pathways. On the other hand, Rho is weakly oncogenic by itself, but it critically regulates microfilament dynamics; that is, actin polymerization, disassembly and contraction. Polymerization is driven mainly by the Arp2/3 complex and formins, whereas contraction depends on myosin mini-filament assembly and activity. These two pathways intersect at numerous points: from Ras-dependent triggering of Rho activators, some of which act through PI3K, to mechanical feedback driven by actomyosin action. Here, we describe the main points of connection between the Ras and Rho pathways as they coordinately drive oncogenic transformation. We emphasize the biochemical crosstalk that drives actomyosin contraction driven by Ras in a Rho-dependent manner. We also describe possible routes of mechanical feedback through which myosin II activation may control Ras/Rho activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Soriano
- Tumor Biophysics Laboratory, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Marta Alcón-Pérez
- Tumour-Stroma Signalling Laboratory, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Miguel Vicente-Manzanares
- Tumor Biophysics Laboratory, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.V.-M.); (E.C.)
| | - Esther Castellano
- Tumour-Stroma Signalling Laboratory, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.V.-M.); (E.C.)
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15
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Lorimer IAJ. Aberrant Rac pathway signalling in glioblastoma. Small GTPases 2021; 12:81-95. [PMID: 31032735 PMCID: PMC7849730 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2019.1612694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. Both mutation analysis in human glioblastoma and mouse modelling studies have shown that aberrant activation of the PI 3-kinase pathway is a central driver of glioblastoma malignancy. The small GTPase Rac is activated downstream of this pathway, mediating a subset of the effects of aberrant PI 3-kinase pathway activation. Here I discuss the current state of our knowledge on Rac activation mechanisms in glioblastoma. Current knowledge on roles for specific PI 3-kinase pathway responsive Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factors in glioblastoma is reviewed. Rac is best known for its role in promoting cell motility and invasion, but there is also evidence for roles in multiple other cellular processes with cancer relevance, including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, DNA damage responses, metabolism, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. I review what is known about the role of Rac in these processes in glioblastoma. Finally, I assess possible strategies to inhibit this pathway in glioblastoma through either direct inhibition of Rac or inhibition of upstream activators or downstream mediators of Rac signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian AJ Lorimer
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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16
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Kiel C, Matallanas D, Kolch W. The Ins and Outs of RAS Effector Complexes. Biomolecules 2021; 11:236. [PMID: 33562401 PMCID: PMC7915224 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RAS oncogenes are among the most commonly mutated proteins in human cancers. They regulate a wide range of effector pathways that control cell proliferation, survival, differentiation, migration and metabolic status. Including aberrations in these pathways, RAS-dependent signaling is altered in more than half of human cancers. Targeting mutant RAS proteins and their downstream oncogenic signaling pathways has been elusive. However, recent results comprising detailed molecular studies, large scale omics studies and computational modeling have painted a new and more comprehensive portrait of RAS signaling that helps us to understand the intricacies of RAS, how its physiological and pathophysiological functions are regulated, and how we can target them. Here, we review these efforts particularly trying to relate the detailed mechanistic studies with global functional studies. We highlight the importance of computational modeling and data integration to derive an actionable understanding of RAS signaling that will allow us to design new mechanism-based therapies for RAS mutated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kiel
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland; (C.K.); (D.M.)
- UCD Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - David Matallanas
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland; (C.K.); (D.M.)
| | - Walter Kolch
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland; (C.K.); (D.M.)
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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17
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HACE1 blocks HIF1α accumulation under hypoxia in a RAC1 dependent manner. Oncogene 2021; 40:1988-2001. [PMID: 33603169 PMCID: PMC7979542 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Uncovering the mechanisms that underpin how tumor cells adapt to microenvironmental stress is essential to better understand cancer progression. The HACE1 (HECT domain and ankyrin repeat-containing E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase) gene is a tumor suppressor that inhibits the growth, invasive capacity, and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the direct regulatory pathways whereby HACE1 confers this tumor-suppressive effect remain to be fully elucidated. In this report, we establish a link between HACE1 and the major stress factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1α). We find that HACE1 blocks the accumulation of HIF1α during cellular hypoxia through decreased protein stability. This property is dependent on HACE1 E3 ligase activity and loss of Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (RAC1), an established target of HACE1 mediated ubiquitinylation and degradation. In vivo, genetic deletion of Rac1 reversed the increased HIF1α expression observed in Hace1-/- mice in murine KRasG12D-driven lung tumors. An inverse relationship was observed between HACE1 and HIF1α levels in tumors compared to patient-matched normal kidney tissues, highlighting the potential pathophysiological significance of our findings. Together, our data uncover a previously unrecognized function for the HACE1 tumor suppressor in blocking HIF1α accumulation under hypoxia in a RAC1-dependent manner.
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18
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Liposomes Targeting P21 Activated Kinase-1 (PAK-1) and Selective for Secretory Phospholipase A 2 (sPLA 2) Decrease Cell Viability and Induce Apoptosis in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249396. [PMID: 33321758 PMCID: PMC7764208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
P21 activated kinases (or group I PAKs) are serine/threonine kinases whose expression is altered in prostate and breast cancers. PAK-1 activity is inhibited by the small molecule "Inhibitor targeting PAK-1 activation-3" (IPA-3), which has selectivity for PAK-1 but is metabolically unstable. Secretory Group IIA phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) expression correlates to increased metastasis and decreased survival in many cancers. We previously designed novel liposomal formulations targeting both PAK-1 and sPLA2, called Secretory Phospholipase Responsive liposomes or SPRL-IPA-3, and demonstrated their ability to alter prostate cancer growth. The efficacy of SPRL against other types of cancers is not well understood. We addressed this limitation by determining the ability of SPRL to induce cell death in a diverse panel of cells representing different stages of breast cancer, including the invasive but non-metastatic MCF-7 cells, and metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells such as MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, and MDA-MB-435. We investigated the role of sPLA2 in the disposition of these liposomes by comparing the efficacy of SPRL-IPA-3 to IPA-3 encapsulated in sterically stabilized liposomes (SSL-IPA-3), a formulation shown to be less sensitive to sPLA2. Both SSL-IPA-3 and SPRL-IPA-3 induced time- and dose-dependent decreases in MTT staining in all cell lines tested, but SPRL-IPA-3-induced effects in metastatic TNBC cell lines were superior over SSL-IPA-3. The reduction in MTT staining induced by SPRL-IPA-3 correlated to the expression of Group IIA sPLA2. sPLA2 expression also correlated to increased induction of apoptosis in TNBC cell lines by SPRL-IPA-3. These data suggest that SPRL-IPA-3 is selective for metastatic TNBC cells and that the efficacy of SPRL-IPA-3 is mediated, in part, by the expression of Group IIA sPLA2.
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19
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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: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [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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20
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Pleiotropic Roles of Calmodulin in the Regulation of KRas and Rac1 GTPases: Functional Diversity in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103680. [PMID: 32456244 PMCID: PMC7279331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Calmodulin is a ubiquitous signalling protein that controls many biological processes due to its capacity to interact and/or regulate a large number of cellular proteins and pathways, mostly in a Ca2+-dependent manner. This complex interactome of calmodulin can have pleiotropic molecular consequences, which over the years has made it often difficult to clearly define the contribution of calmodulin in the signal output of specific pathways and overall biological response. Most relevant for this review, the ability of calmodulin to influence the spatiotemporal signalling of several small GTPases, in particular KRas and Rac1, can modulate fundamental biological outcomes such as proliferation and migration. First, direct interaction of calmodulin with these GTPases can alter their subcellular localization and activation state, induce post-translational modifications as well as their ability to interact with effectors. Second, through interaction with a set of calmodulin binding proteins (CaMBPs), calmodulin can control the capacity of several guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) to promote the switch of inactive KRas and Rac1 to an active conformation. Moreover, Rac1 is also an effector of KRas and both proteins are interconnected as highlighted by the requirement for Rac1 activation in KRas-driven tumourigenesis. In this review, we attempt to summarize the multiple layers how calmodulin can regulate KRas and Rac1 GTPases in a variety of cellular events, with biological consequences and potential for therapeutic opportunities in disease settings, such as cancer.
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21
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Hung PS, Huang MH, Kuo YY, Yang JCH. The Inhibition of Wnt Restrain KRAS G12V-Driven Metastasis in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040837. [PMID: 32244355 PMCID: PMC7226522 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The KRAS mutations have been an obstacle to identify therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. In this work, we clarified the distinct metastasis pattern of non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) induced by KRASG12V/KRASG12D mutations and inhibited the KRASG12V mediated metastasis by Wnt inhibitor. First, we found that KRASG12V induced more aggressive phenotype in vitro and in vivo experiments. The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) results of H838 KRASG12V cells showed a significant negative correlation with RhoA-related signaling. Following this clue, we observed KRASG12D induced higher activation of RhoA and suppressed activation of Wnt/β-catenin in H838KRASG12D cells. The restored activation of Wnt/β-catenin in H838KRASG12D cells could be detected when expression with a dominant-negative mutant of RhoA or treatment with RhoA inhibitor. Furthermore, the Wnt inhibitor abolished the KRASG12V-induced migration. We elucidated the importance of the axis of RhoA/Wnt in regulatory NSCLC metastasis driven by KRAS mutations. Our data indicate that KRASG12V driven NSCLC metastasis is Wnt-dependent and the mechanisms of NSCLC metastasis induced by KRASG12V/KRASG12D is distinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Shan Hung
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (M.-H.H.)
| | - Ming-Hung Huang
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (M.-H.H.)
| | - Yuan-Yeh Kuo
- Tai-Chen Cell Therapy Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan;
| | - James Chih-Hsin Yang
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (P.-S.H.); (M.-H.H.)
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- National Taiwan University Cancer Center, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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22
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RAC1 as a Therapeutic Target in Malignant Melanoma. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:478-488. [PMID: 32460002 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Small GTPases of the RAS and RHO families are related signaling proteins that, when activated by growth factors or by mutation, drive oncogenic processes. While activating mutations in KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS genes have long been recognized and occur in many types of cancer, similar mutations in RHO family genes, such as RAC1 and RHOA, have only recently been detected as the result of extensive cancer genome-sequencing efforts and are linked to a restricted set of malignancies. In this review, we focus on the role of RAC1 signaling in malignant melanoma, emphasizing recent advances that describe how this oncoprotein alters melanocyte proliferation and motility and how these findings might lead to new therapeutics in RAC1-mutant tumors.
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IODVA1, a guanidinobenzimidazole derivative, targets Rac activity and Ras-driven cancer models. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229801. [PMID: 32163428 PMCID: PMC7067412 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the synthesis and preliminary characterization of IODVA1, a potent small molecule that is active in xenograft mouse models of Ras-driven lung and breast cancers. In an effort to inhibit oncogenic Ras signaling, we combined in silico screening with inhibition of proliferation and colony formation of Ras-driven cells. NSC124205 fulfilled all criteria. HPLC analysis revealed that NSC124205 was a mixture of at least three compounds, from which IODVA1 was determined to be the active component. IODVA1 decreased 2D and 3D cell proliferation, cell spreading and ruffle and lamellipodia formation through downregulation of Rac activity. IODVA1 significantly impaired xenograft tumor growth of Ras-driven cancer cells with no observable toxicity. Immuno-histochemistry analysis of tumor sections suggests that cell death occurs by increased apoptosis. Our data suggest that IODVA1 targets Rac signaling to induce death of Ras-transformed cells. Therefore, IODVA1 holds promise as an anti-tumor therapeutic agent.
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Antitumor Activity of Ficus deltoidea Extract on Oral Cancer: An In Vivo Study. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:5490468. [PMID: 32104177 PMCID: PMC7035569 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5490468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The aim of this study is to evaluate the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities of Ficus deltoidea (FD) in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO). Methods Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomized into six groups (n = 7 per group): Group 1 (untreated group); Group 2 (control cancer group) received 4NQO only for 8 weeks in their drinking water; Groups 3 and 4 (chemopreventive) received 4NQO for 8 weeks and were simultaneously treated with FD extract at 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, by oral gavage; Groups 5 and 6 (chemotherapeutic) received 4NQO for 8 weeks followed by the administration of FD extract at 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, for another 10 weeks. The incidence of oral cancer was microscopically evaluated. Moreover, immunohistochemical expression was analysed in tongue specimens using an image analyser computer system, while the RT2 profiler PCR array method was employed for gene expression analysis. Results The results of the present study showed a beneficial regression effect of the FD extract on tumor progression. The FD extract significantly reduced the incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) from 100% to 14.3% in the high-dose groups. The immunohistochemical analysis showed that the FD extract had significantly decreased the expression of the key tumor marker cyclin D1 and had significantly increased the expression of the β-catenin and e-cadherin antibodies that are associated with enhanced cellular adhesion. Based on the gene expression analysis, FD extract had reduced the expression of the TWIST1 and RAC1 genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and had significantly downregulated the COX-2 and EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.β-catenin and e-cadherin antibodies that are associated with enhanced cellular adhesion. Based on the gene expression analysis, FD extract had reduced the expression of the TWIST1 and RAC1 genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and had significantly downregulated the COX-2 and EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.TWIST1 and RAC1 genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and had significantly downregulated the COX-2 and EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.RAC1 genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and had significantly downregulated the COX-2 and EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.COX-2 and EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.EGFR genes associated with cancer angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Our data suggest that the FD extract exerts chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities in an animal model induced for oral cancer using 4NQO, thus having the potential to be developed as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents.
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Cholesterol and beyond - The role of the mevalonate pathway in cancer biology. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188351. [PMID: 32007596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a multifaceted global disease. Transformation of a normal to a malignant cell takes several steps, including somatic mutations, epigenetic alterations, metabolic reprogramming and loss of cell growth control. Recently, the mevalonate pathway has emerged as a crucial regulator of tumor biology and a potential therapeutic target. This pathway controls cholesterol production and posttranslational modifications of Rho-GTPases, both of which are linked to several key steps of tumor progression. Inhibitors of the mevalonate pathway induce pleiotropic antitumor-effects in several human malignancies, identifying the pathway as an attractive candidate for novel therapies. In this review, we will provide an overview about the role and regulation of the mevalonate pathway in certain aspects of cancer initiation and progression and its potential for therapeutic intervention in oncology.
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Mohan AS, Dean KM, Isogai T, Kasitinon SY, Murali VS, Roudot P, Groisman A, Reed DK, Welf ES, Han SJ, Noh J, Danuser G. Enhanced Dendritic Actin Network Formation in Extended Lamellipodia Drives Proliferation in Growth-Challenged Rac1 P29S Melanoma Cells. Dev Cell 2020; 49:444-460.e9. [PMID: 31063759 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Actin assembly supplies the structural framework for cell morphology and migration. Beyond structure, this actin framework can also be engaged to drive biochemical signaling programs. Here, we describe how the hyperactivation of Rac1 via the P29S mutation (Rac1P29S) in melanoma hijacks branched actin network assembly to coordinate proliferative cues that facilitate metastasis and drug resistance. Upon growth challenge, Rac1P29S-harboring melanoma cells massively upregulate lamellipodia formation by dendritic actin polymerization. These extended lamellipodia form a signaling microdomain that sequesters and phospho-inactivates the tumor suppressor NF2/Merlin, driving Rac1P29S cell proliferation in growth suppressive conditions. These biochemically active lamellipodia require cell-substrate attachment but not focal adhesion assembly and drive proliferation independently of the ERK/MAPK pathway. These data suggest a critical link between cell morphology and cell signaling and reconcile the dichotomy of Rac1's regulation of both proliferation and actin assembly by revealing a mutual signaling axis wherein actin assembly drives proliferation in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwathi S Mohan
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Kevin M Dean
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Tadamoto Isogai
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Stacy Y Kasitinon
- Children's Research Institute and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Vasanth S Murali
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Philippe Roudot
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Alex Groisman
- Department of Physics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Dana K Reed
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Erik S Welf
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Sangyoon J Han
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Jungsik Noh
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Gaudenz Danuser
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Kgk D, Kumari S, G S, Malla RR. Marine natural compound cyclo(L-leucyl-L-prolyl) peptide inhibits migration of triple negative breast cancer cells by disrupting interaction of CD151 and EGFR signaling. Chem Biol Interact 2019; 315:108872. [PMID: 31669320 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2019.108872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cyclo (L-Leucyl-L-Prolyl) peptide/CLP is a marine natural metabolite and well recognized as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent with limited studies on anticancer activity. The current study aims to determine the effect of CLP on migration and growth of triple negative breast cancer cell lines. The anti-growth potential was evaluated by MTT, BrdU and TUNEL assays; DNA damage by γH2AX and Dead green assays; antimigration activity by Boyden chamber invasion and wound healing assays. Interaction of CLP with CD151 was resolved by PatchDock. Effect of CLP on the expression of transmembrane CD151 was evaluated by cell-based ELISA assay. The interaction between CD151 and EGFR was predicted by using FireDoc Web server. Impact of CLP on the interaction of CD151 with EGFR was evaluated by co-immunoprecipitation assay. The effect of CLP on the cell cycle and its controlling proteins was determined by Western blotting. CLP reduced the viability of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cell lines but not human breast healthy epithelial cell line (MCF-12A) similar to eribulin, standard. CLP also inhibited proliferation; cell cycle and migration. It induced DNA strand breaks, DNA damage, and cell death. It showed the most favorable interactions with CD151 in in silico docking and significantly reduced the expression of membrane-bound CD151 proteins. FireDoc Web study predicted the association between CD151 and EGFR with -29.13 kcal/mol of binding energy. CLP reduced the interaction of CD151 with EGFR along with the expression of cyclin D, CDK4, PAK, RAC1, and P27kiP1. This study concludes that CLP suppresses growth and migration by attenuating cell cycle of TNBC cell lines via EGFR and CD151 signaling. Thus, exploring the EGFR and CD151 signaling pathway targeted by CLP may provide a new approach in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kgk
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry, GIS, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Seema Kumari
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry, GIS, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Shailender G
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry, GIS, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Rama Rao Malla
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry, GIS, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Kobliakov VA. The Mechanisms of Regulation of Aerobic Glycolysis (Warburg Effect) by Oncoproteins in Carcinogenesis. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2019; 84:1117-1128. [DOI: 10.1134/s0006297919100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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RHO Family GTPases in the Biology of Lymphoma. Cells 2019; 8:cells8070646. [PMID: 31248017 PMCID: PMC6678807 DOI: 10.3390/cells8070646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RHO GTPases are a class of small molecules involved in the regulation of several cellular processes that belong to the RAS GTPase superfamily. The RHO family of GTPases includes several members that are further divided into two different groups: typical and atypical. Both typical and atypical RHO GTPases are critical transducers of intracellular signaling and have been linked to human cancer. Significantly, both gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations have been described in human tumors with contradicting roles depending on the cell context. The RAS family of GTPases that also belong to the RAS GTPase superfamily like the RHO GTPases, includes arguably the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers (K-RAS, N-RAS, and H-RAS) but has been extensively described elsewhere. This review focuses on the role of RHO family GTPases in human lymphoma initiation and progression.
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Hlavac M, Dwucet A, Kast RE, Engelke J, Westhoff MA, Siegelin MD, Debatin KM, Wirtz CR, Halatsch ME, Karpel-Massler G. Combined inhibition of RAC1 and Bcl-2/Bcl-xL synergistically induces glioblastoma cell death through down-regulation of the Usp9X/Mcl-1 axis. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2019; 42:287-301. [PMID: 30859392 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-019-00425-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Anti-apoptotic and pro-migratory phenotypes are hallmarks of neoplastic diseases, including primary brain malignancies. In this work, we examined whether reprogramming of the apoptotic and migratory machineries through a multi-targeting approach would induce enhanced cell death and enhanced inhibition of the migratory capacity of glioblastoma cells. METHODS Preclinical testing and molecular analyses of combined inhibition of Bcl-2/Bcl-xL and RAC1 were performed in established, primary cultured and stem-like glioblastoma cell systems. RESULTS We found that the combined inhibition of Bcl-2/Bcl-xL and RAC1 resulted in synergistic pro-apoptotic and anti-migratory effects in a broad range of different glioblastoma cells. At the molecular level, we found that RAC1 inhibition led to a decreased expression of the deubiquitinase Usp9X, followed by a decreased stability of Mcl-1. We also found that the combined inhibition led to a significantly decreased migratory activity and that tumor formation of glioblastoma cells on chorion allantoic membranes of chicken embryos was markedly impaired following the combined inhibition. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that concomitant inhibition of RAC1 and Bcl-2/Bcl-xL induces pro-apoptotic and anti-migratory glioblastoma phenotypes as well as synergistic anti-neoplastic activities. The clinical efficacy of this inhibitory therapeutic strategy warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Hlavac
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Annika Dwucet
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Jens Engelke
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Mike-Andrew Westhoff
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus D Siegelin
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Klaus-Michael Debatin
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christian Rainer Wirtz
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marc-Eric Halatsch
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Georg Karpel-Massler
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, D-89081, Ulm, Germany.
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Laragione T, Harris C, Gulko PS. TRPV2 suppresses Rac1 and RhoA activation and invasion in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 70:268-273. [PMID: 30851707 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.02.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The TRPV2 cation channel has been recently implicated in the regulation of arthritis severity, joint damage, and in the invasive behavior of the fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS). However, its mechanism of action was unknown. In this study we characterize the cell signaling events mediating the TRPV2 suppressive activity in FLS invasiveness. Studies with FLS cell lines derived from patients with RA revealed that TRPV2-specific stimulation significantly reduced FLS adhesion to different extracellular matrices that shared binding to αν, β1 and β3 integrins. Localization of these integrins to the plasma membrane and numbers of thick and organized actin filaments were diminished by TRPV2 specific stimulation, and cells developed a round and non-polarized morphology. TRPV2 stimulation significantly reduced levels of activated RhoA, Rac1 and cofilin. RhoA activators were able to overcome the TRPV2-induced suppression on both RhoA activation and invasion. These new discoveries suggest that TRPV2 regulates key intracellular processes implicated in cell invasion in arthritis and other processes such as cancer, and has the potential to become a useful target for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresina Laragione
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Carolyn Harris
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Percio S Gulko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Waters AM, Der CJ. KRAS: The Critical Driver and Therapeutic Target for Pancreatic Cancer. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2018; 8:a031435. [PMID: 29229669 PMCID: PMC5995645 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a031435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 503] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RAS genes (HRAS, KRAS, and NRAS) comprise the most frequently mutated oncogene family in human cancer. With the highest RAS mutation frequencies seen with the top three causes of cancer deaths in the United States (lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer), the development of anti-RAS therapies is a major priority for cancer research. Despite more than three decades of intense effort, no effective RAS inhibitors have yet to reach the cancer patient. With bitter lessons learned from past failures and with new ideas and strategies, there is renewed hope that undruggable RAS may finally be conquered. With the KRAS isoform mutated in 84% of all RAS-mutant cancers, we focus on KRAS. With a near 100% KRAS mutation frequency, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is considered the most RAS-addicted of all cancers. We review the role of KRAS as a driver and therapeutic target in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Waters
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Channing J Der
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
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33
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The role of Rac in tumor susceptibility and disease progression: from biochemistry to the clinic. Biochem Soc Trans 2018; 46:1003-1012. [PMID: 30065108 DOI: 10.1042/bst20170519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The family of Rho GTPases are involved in the dynamic control of cytoskeleton reorganization and other fundamental cellular functions, including growth, motility, and survival. Rac1, one of the best characterized Rho GTPases, is an established effector of receptors and an important node in signaling networks crucial for tumorigenesis and metastasis. Rac1 hyperactivation is common in human cancer and could be the consequence of overexpression, abnormal upstream inputs, deregulated degradation, and/or anomalous intracellular localization. More recently, cancer-associated gain-of-function mutations in Rac1 have been identified which contribute to tumor phenotypes and confer resistance to targeted therapies. Deregulated expression/activity of Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factors responsible for Rac activation has been largely associated with a metastatic phenotype and drug resistance. Translating our extensive knowledge in Rac pathway biochemistry into a clinical setting still remains a major challenge; nonetheless, remarkable opportunities for cancer therapeutics arise from promising lead compounds targeting Rac and its effectors.
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34
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PDLIM5 identified by label-free quantitative proteomics as a potential novel biomarker of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 499:338-344. [PMID: 29574154 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.03.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In order to better understand the mechanisms underlying the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), and to identify new potential biomarkers, high-resolution label-free mass spectrometry was performed on PTC tissues and adjacent normal thyroid tissues from six patients. In this process, 2788 proteins were identified, out of which 49 proteins presented significant differences between PTC tissues and adjacent normal thyroid tissues. Gene ontology revealed that the majority of these proteins are involved in the catalytic activity and binding. We selected three proteins with differential expressions: PDZ and LIM domain 5 (PDLIM5), PDLIM1 and ALDH1A1; Protein expressions were further verified by RT-PCR and western blot. Among these, expression of PDLIM5 and PDLIM1 was up-regulated, while that of ALDH1A1 was down-regulated in PTC tissues. Next, we confirmed their expression through quantitative dot blot (QDB) technique. We found that knockdown of PDLIM5 expression in the B-CPAP cell line could inhibit the migration, invasion and proliferation of PTC cells. In addition, PDLIM5 knockdown reduced Ras and Phospho-ERK1/2 expression. Thus, we suggested that PDLIM5 promotes PTC via activation of the Ras-ERK pathway. Our research provides new molecular insight into the function of PDLIM5, which may assist in studying the mechanism of PTC. In addition, PDLIM5 could be further explored as a potential candidate for PTC treatment.
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Arnst JL, Hein AL, Taylor MA, Palermo NY, Contreras JI, Sonawane YA, Wahl AO, Ouellette MM, Natarajan A, Yan Y. Discovery and characterization of small molecule Rac1 inhibitors. Oncotarget 2018; 8:34586-34600. [PMID: 28410221 PMCID: PMC5470993 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of Rho GTPase Rac1 has been observed in various tumor types, including pancreatic cancer. Rac1 activates multiple signaling pathways that lead to uncontrolled proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Thus, inhibition of Rac1 activity is a viable therapeutic strategy for proliferative disorders such as cancer. Here we identified small molecule inhibitors that target the nucleotide-binding site of Rac1 through in silico screening. Follow up in vitro studies demonstrated that two compounds blocked active Rac1 from binding to its effector PAK1. Fluorescence polarization studies indicate that these compounds target the nucleotide-binding site of Rac1. In cells, both compounds blocked Rac1 binding to its effector PAK1 following EGF-induced Rac1 activation in a dose-dependent manner, while showing no inhibition of the closely related Cdc42 and RhoA activity. Furthermore, functional studies indicate that both compounds reduced cell proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines. Additionally, the two compounds suppressed the clonogenic survival of pancreatic cancer cells, while they had no effect on the survival of normal pancreatic ductal cells. These compounds do not share the core structure of the known Rac1 inhibitors and could serve as additional lead compounds to target pancreatic cancers with high Rac1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Arnst
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America.,Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Ashley L Hein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Margaret A Taylor
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Nick Y Palermo
- Holland Computing Center University of Nebraska-Lincoln Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Jacob I Contreras
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Yogesh A Sonawane
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Andrew O Wahl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Michel M Ouellette
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Amarnath Natarajan
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
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Humphries-Bickley T, Castillo-Pichardo L, Hernandez-O'Farrill E, Borrero-Garcia LD, Forestier-Roman I, Gerena Y, Blanco M, Rivera-Robles MJ, Rodriguez-Medina JR, Cubano LA, Vlaar CP, Dharmawardhane S. Characterization of a Dual Rac/Cdc42 Inhibitor MBQ-167 in Metastatic Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2018; 16:805-818. [PMID: 28450422 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The Rho GTPases Rac (Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate) and Cdc42 (cell division control protein 42 homolog) regulate cell functions governing cancer malignancy, including cell polarity, migration, and cell-cycle progression. Accordingly, our recently developed Rac inhibitor EHop-016 (IC50, 1,100 nmol/L) inhibits cancer cell migration and viability and reduces tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis in vivo Herein, we describe MBQ-167, which inhibits Rac and Cdc42 with IC50 values of 103 and 78 nmol/L, respectively, in metastatic breast cancer cells. Consequently, MBQ-167 significantly decreases Rac and Cdc42 downstream effector p21-activated kinase (PAK) signaling and the activity of STAT3, without affecting Rho, MAPK, or Akt activities. MBQ-167 also inhibits breast cancer cell migration, viability, and mammosphere formation. Moreover, MBQ-167 affects cancer cells that have undergone epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by a loss of cell polarity and inhibition of cell surface actin-based extensions to ultimately result in detachment from the substratum. Prolonged incubation (120 hours) in MBQ-167 decreases metastatic cancer cell viability with a GI50 of approximately 130 nmol/L, without affecting noncancer mammary epithelial cells. The loss in cancer cell viability is due to MBQ-167-mediated G2-M cell-cycle arrest and subsequent apoptosis, especially of the detached cells. In vivo, MBQ-167 inhibits mammary tumor growth and metastasis in immunocompromised mice by approximately 90%. In conclusion, MBQ-167 is 10× more potent than other currently available Rac/Cdc42 inhibitors and has the potential to be developed as an anticancer drug, as well as a dual inhibitory probe for the study of Rac and Cdc42. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(5); 805-18. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Humphries-Bickley
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Linette Castillo-Pichardo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamón, Puerto Rico
| | - Eliud Hernandez-O'Farrill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Luis D Borrero-Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Ingrid Forestier-Roman
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Yamil Gerena
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Manuel Blanco
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Michael J Rivera-Robles
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - José R Rodriguez-Medina
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Luis A Cubano
- Department of Anatomy, Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamón, Puerto Rico
| | - Cornelis P Vlaar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
| | - Suranganie Dharmawardhane
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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Tajiri H, Uruno T, Shirai T, Takaya D, Matsunaga S, Setoyama D, Watanabe M, Kukimoto-Niino M, Oisaki K, Ushijima M, Sanematsu F, Honma T, Terada T, Oki E, Shirasawa S, Maehara Y, Kang D, Côté JF, Yokoyama S, Kanai M, Fukui Y. Targeting Ras-Driven Cancer Cell Survival and Invasion through Selective Inhibition of DOCK1. Cell Rep 2018; 19:969-980. [PMID: 28467910 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic Ras plays a key role in cancer initiation but also contributes to malignant phenotypes by stimulating nutrient uptake and promoting invasive migration. Because these latter cellular responses require Rac-mediated remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton, we hypothesized that molecules involved in Rac activation may be valuable targets for cancer therapy. We report that genetic inactivation of the Rac-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor DOCK1 ablates both macropinocytosis-dependent nutrient uptake and cellular invasion in Ras-transformed cells. By screening chemical libraries, we have identified 1-(2-(3'-(trifluoromethyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)-2-oxoethyl)-5-pyrrolidinylsulfonyl-2(1H)-pyridone (TBOPP) as a selective inhibitor of DOCK1. TBOPP dampened DOCK1-mediated invasion, macropinocytosis, and survival under the condition of glutamine deprivation without impairing the biological functions of the closely related DOCK2 and DOCK5 proteins. Furthermore, TBOPP treatment suppressed cancer metastasis and growth in vivo in mice. Our results demonstrate that selective pharmacological inhibition of DOCK1 could be a therapeutic approach to target cancer cell survival and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotada Tajiri
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takehito Uruno
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Advanced Immunology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takahiro Shirai
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Daisuke Takaya
- RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Shigeki Matsunaga
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Daiki Setoyama
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Mayuki Watanabe
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Advanced Immunology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | | | - Kounosuke Oisaki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Miho Ushijima
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Fumiyuki Sanematsu
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Advanced Immunology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Teruki Honma
- RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Takaho Terada
- RIKEN Structural Biology Laboratory, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Eiji Oki
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Senji Shirasawa
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Maehara
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Dongchon Kang
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Jean-François Côté
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal (Université de Montréal), Montréal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
| | | | - Motomu Kanai
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fukui
- Division of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Advanced Immunology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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Suppression of RAC1-driven malignant melanoma by group A PAK inhibitors. Oncogene 2017; 37:944-952. [PMID: 29059171 PMCID: PMC5814328 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Activating mutations in the RAC1 gene have recently been discovered as driver events in malignant melanoma. Expression of this gene is associated with melanocyte proliferation, and melanoma cells bearing this mutation are insensitive to BRAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib and dabrafenib, and also may evade immune surveillance due to enhanced expression of PD-L1. Activating mutations in RAC1 are of special interest, as small molecule inhibitors for the RAC effector p21-activated kinase (PAK) are in late-stage clinical development and might impede oncogenic signaling from mutant RAC1. In this work, we explore the effects of PAK inhibition on RAC1P29S signaling in zebrafish embryonic development, in the proliferation, survival, and motility of RAC1P29S-mutant human melanoma cells, and on tumor formation and progression from such cells in mice. We report that RAC1P29S evokes a Rasopathy-like phenotype on zebrafish development that can be blocked by inhibitors of PAK or MEK. We also found and that RAC1 mutant human melanoma cells are resistant to clinical inhibitors of BRAF but are uniquely sensitive to PAK inhibitors. These data suggest that suppressing the PAK pathway might be of therapeutic benefit in this type of melanoma.
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Mashreghi M, Azarpara H, Bazaz MR, Jafari A, Masoudifar A, Mirzaei H, Jaafari MR. Angiogenesis biomarkers and their targeting ligands as potential targets for tumor angiogenesis. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:2949-2965. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mashreghi
- NanotechnologyResearch Center; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
- School of Pharmacy; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
| | - Hassan Azarpara
- School of Medicine; Iran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Mahere R. Bazaz
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Ferdowsi University of Mashhad; Mashhad Iran
| | - Arash Jafari
- School of Medicine; Birjand University of Medical Sciences; Birjand Iran
| | - Aria Masoudifar
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Biotechnology; ACECR Isfahan Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
| | - Mahmoud R. Jaafari
- NanotechnologyResearch Center; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
- School of Pharmacy; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
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40
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Perillyl alcohol, a pleiotropic natural compound suitable for brain tumor therapy, targets free radicals. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2017; 65:285-297. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-017-0459-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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41
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Zandvakili I, Lin Y, Morris JC, Zheng Y. Rho GTPases: Anti- or pro-neoplastic targets? Oncogene 2016; 36:3213-3222. [PMID: 27991930 PMCID: PMC5464989 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Rho GTPases are critical signal transducers of multiple pathways. They have been proposed to be useful anti-neoplastic targets for over two decades, especially in Ras-driven cancers. Until recently, however, few in vivo studies had been carried out to test this premise. Several recent mouse model studies have verified that Rac1, RhoA, and some of their effector proteins such as PAK and ROCK, are likely anti-cancer targets for treating K-Ras-driven tumors. Other seemingly contradictory studies have suggested that at least in certain instances inhibition of individual Rho GTPases may paradoxically result in pro-neoplastic effects. Significantly, both RhoA GTPase gain- and loss-of-function mutations have been discovered in primary leukemia/lymphoma and gastric cancer by human cancer genome sequencing efforts, suggesting both pro- and anti-neoplastic roles. In this review we summarize and integrate these unexpected findings and discuss the mechanistic implications in the design and application of Rho GTPase targeting strategies in future cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Zandvakili
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Molecular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Medical-Scientist Training Program, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Y Lin
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - J C Morris
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio USA
| | - Y Zheng
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Molecular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Medical-Scientist Training Program, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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42
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KRAS Engages AGO2 to Enhance Cellular Transformation. Cell Rep 2016; 14:1448-1461. [PMID: 26854235 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in RAS provide a compelling yet intractable therapeutic target. Using co-immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry, we uncovered an interaction between RAS and Argonaute 2 (AGO2). Endogenously, RAS and AGO2 co-sediment and co-localize in the endoplasmic reticulum. The AGO2 N-terminal domain directly binds the Switch II region of KRAS, agnostic of nucleotide (GDP/GTP) binding. Functionally, AGO2 knockdown attenuates cell proliferation in mutant KRAS-dependent cells and AGO2 overexpression enhances KRAS(G12V)-mediated transformation. Using AGO2-/- cells, we demonstrate that the RAS-AGO2 interaction is required for maximal mutant KRAS expression and cellular transformation. Mechanistically, oncogenic KRAS attenuates AGO2-mediated gene silencing. Overall, the functional interaction with AGO2 extends KRAS function beyond its canonical role in signaling.
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Lu HL, Chen SS, Hsu WT, Lu YC, Lee CC, Wu TS, Lin ML. Suppression of phospho-p85α-GTP-Rac1 lipid raft interaction by bichalcone analog attenuates cancer cell invasion. Mol Carcinog 2016; 55:2106-2120. [PMID: 26756739 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The p85α subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) acts as a key regulator of cell proliferation and motility, which mediates signals that confer chemoresistance to many human cancer cells. Using small interfering RNAs against matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and the MMP-2 promoter-driven luciferase assay, we showed that the new synthetic bichalcone analog TSWU-CD4 inhibits the invasion of human cancer cells by down-regulating MMP-2 expression. Treatment with TSWU-CD4 inhibited MMP-2 expression and cell invasion, which were restored by ectopic wild type (wt) p85α or a constitutively active form of MAPK kinase 3 (CA MKK3), CA MKK6, or CA p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The attenuated formation of lipid raft-associated phospho (p)-p85α-GTP-Rac1 complexes, protein kinase B (Akt) Ser 473 phosphorylation, and cell invasion by TSWU-CD4 was reversed by overexpression of wt p85α or the p85α Brc-homology (BH) domain. The ectopic expression of CA Rac1L61 (but not wt Rac1) could overcome the suppression of Ser 473 phosphorylation, lipid raft association of Akt, the interaction between GTP-bound Rac1 and p85α in lipid rafts, and cell invasion by TSWU-CD4. The involvement of Akt activity in the functions of NF-κB-mediated MMP-2 was further confirmed through the attenuation of Akt phosphorylation signaling using the Akt-specific inhibitor MK-2206 and ectopic expression of NF-κB p65. Collectively, the inhibitory effect of TSWU-CD4 on cancer cell invasion was likely to suppress the p-p85α-GTP-Rac1 interaction in lipid rafts by targeting the p85α BH domain, which resulted in the suppression of MMP-2 expression via the PI3K-Akt-mediated ERK-MKK3/MKK6-p38 MAPK-NF-κB signaling pathway. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Li Lu
- Division of Laboratory, Armed Force Taichung General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Shun Chen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Tung Hsu
- Division of Laboratory, Armed Force Taichung General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Cheng Lu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Chun Lee
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tian-Shung Wu
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Liang Lin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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44
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Takada T, Tsutsumi S, Takahashi R, Ohsone K, Tatsuki H, Suto T, Kato T, Fujii T, Yokobori T, Kuwano H. KPNA2 over-expression is a potential marker of prognosis and therapeutic sensitivity in colorectal cancer patients. J Surg Oncol 2015; 113:213-7. [PMID: 26663089 DOI: 10.1002/jso.24114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Karyopherin α 2 (KPNA2) is a member of the Karyopherin α family and has recently been reported to play an important role in tumor progression. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the clinicopathological significance of KPNA2 over-expression in colorectal cancer (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS KPNA2 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 122 surgically resected CRC and 13 biopsy specimens obtained at colonoscopy during screening for preoperative hyperthermochemoradiation therapy (HCRT). The association between KPNA2 expression and clinicopathological features and preoperative HCRT efficacy were examined. RESULTS The high and low KNPA2 expression groups were comprised of 91 (74.6%) and 31 CRC patients, respectively. A significant association was observed between high expression and lymphatic invasion (P = 0.0245). KPNA2 high expression group had decreased overall survival (P = 0.00374). Multivariate analysis demonstrated high KPNA2 expression was independently associated with poor prognosis. Histological examinations revealed 11 (84.6%) and 2 (15.4%) of cases were KPNA2 positive and negative, respectively. Pathological complete response (pCR) was observed in 9.1% of KPNA2-positive cases and 100% of KPNA2-negative cases. CONCLUSION High KPNA2 expression was found to be associated with poor prognosis and resistance to HCRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Takada
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Soichi Tsutsumi
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Ryo Takahashi
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Katsuya Ohsone
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hironori Tatsuki
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Toshinaga Suto
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kato
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Takaaki Fujii
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Takehiko Yokobori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kuwano
- Department of General Surgical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Showamachi, Maebashi, Japan
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Baker NM, Yee Chow H, Chernoff J, Der CJ. Molecular pathways: targeting RAC-p21-activated serine-threonine kinase signaling in RAS-driven cancers. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 20:4740-6. [PMID: 25225063 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-13-1727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancers driven by oncogenic Ras proteins encompass some of the most deadly human cancer types, and there is a pressing need to develop therapies for these diseases. Although recent studies suggest that mutant Ras proteins may yet be druggable, the most promising and advanced efforts involve inhibitors of Ras effector signaling. Most efforts to target Ras signaling have been aimed at the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling networks. However, to date, no inhibitors of these Ras effector pathways have been effective against RAS-mutant cancers. This ineffectiveness is due, in part, to the involvement of additional effectors in Ras-dependent cancer growth, such as the Rac small GTPase and the p21-activated serine-threonine kinases (PAK). PAK proteins are involved in many survival, cell motility, and proliferative pathways in the cell and may present a viable new target in Ras-driven cancers. In this review, we address the role and therapeutic potential of Rac and group I PAK proteins in driving mutant Ras cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Baker
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hoi Yee Chow
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jonathan Chernoff
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Channing J Der
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
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46
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Inhibition of RAC1 GTPase sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to γ-irradiation. Oncotarget 2015; 5:10251-70. [PMID: 25344910 PMCID: PMC4279370 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a staple treatment for pancreatic cancer. However, owing to the intrinsic radioresistance of pancreatic cancer cells, radiation therapy often fails to increase survival of pancreatic cancer patients. Radiation impedes cancer cells by inducing DNA damage, which can activate cell cycle checkpoints. Normal cells possess both a G1 and G2 checkpoint. However, cancer cells are often defective in G1 checkpoint due to mutations/alterations in key regulators of this checkpoint. Accordingly, our results show that normal pancreatic ductal cells respond to ionizing radiation (IR) with activation of both checkpoints whereas pancreatic cancer cells respond to IR with G2/M arrest only. Overexpression/hyperactivation of Rac1 GTPase is detected in the majority of pancreatic cancers. Rac1 plays important roles in survival and Ras-mediated transformation. Here, we show that Rac1 also plays a critical role in the response of pancreatic cancer cells to IR. Inhibition of Rac1 using specific inhibitor and dominant negative Rac1 mutant not only abrogates IR-induced G2 checkpoint activation, but also increases radiosensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells through induction of apoptosis. These results implicate Rac1 signaling in the survival of pancreatic cancer cells following IR, raising the possibility that this pathway contributes to the intrinsic radioresistance of pancreatic cancer.
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47
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Zandvakili I, Davis AK, Hu G, Zheng Y. Loss of RhoA Exacerbates, Rather Than Dampens, Oncogenic K-Ras Induced Lung Adenoma Formation in Mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127923. [PMID: 26030593 PMCID: PMC4452309 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous cellular studies have indicated that RhoA signaling is required for oncogenic Ras-induced transformation, suggesting that RhoA is a useful target in Ras induced neoplasia. However, to date very limited data exist to genetically attribute RhoA function to Ras-mediated tumorigenesis in mammalian models. In order to assess whether RhoA is required for K-Ras-induced lung cancer initiation, we utilized the K-RasG12D Lox-Stop-Lox murine lung cancer model in combination with a conditional RhoAflox/flox and RhoC-/- knockout mouse models. Deletion of the floxed Rhoa gene and expression of K-RasG12D was achieved by either CCSP-Cre or adenoviral Cre, resulting in simultaneous expression of K-RasG12D and deletion of RhoA from the murine lung. We found that deletion of RhoA, RhoC or both did not adversely affect normal lung development. Moreover, we found that deletion of either RhoA or RhoC alone did not suppress K-RasG12D induced lung adenoma initiation. Rather, deletion of RhoA alone exacerbated lung adenoma formation, whereas dual deletion of RhoA and RhoC together significantly reduced K-RasG12D induced adenoma formation. Deletion of RhoA appears to induce a compensatory mechanism that exacerbates adenoma formation. The compensatory mechanism is at least partly mediated by RhoC. This study suggests that targeting of RhoA alone may allow for compensation and a paradoxical exacerbation of neoplasia, while simultaneous targeting of both RhoA and RhoC is likely to lead to more favorable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inuk Zandvakili
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Molecular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Medical-Scientist Training Program, College of Medicine, The University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Ashley Kuenzi Davis
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Guodong Hu
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Yi Zheng
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Molecular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Medical-Scientist Training Program, College of Medicine, The University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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48
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Ong CC, Gierke S, Pitt C, Sagolla M, Cheng CK, Zhou W, Jubb AM, Strickland L, Schmidt M, Duron SG, Campbell DA, Zheng W, Dehdashti S, Shen M, Yang N, Behnke ML, Huang W, McKew JC, Chernoff J, Forrest WF, Haverty PM, Chin SF, Rakha EA, Green AR, Ellis IO, Caldas C, O'Brien T, Friedman LS, Koeppen H, Rudolph J, Hoeflich KP. Small molecule inhibition of group I p21-activated kinases in breast cancer induces apoptosis and potentiates the activity of microtubule stabilizing agents. Breast Cancer Res 2015; 17:59. [PMID: 25902869 PMCID: PMC4445529 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0564-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer, the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide among women, is a molecularly and clinically heterogeneous disease. Extensive genetic and epigenetic profiling of breast tumors has recently revealed novel putative driver genes, including p21-activated kinase (PAK)1. PAK1 is a serine/threonine kinase downstream of small GTP-binding proteins, Rac1 and Cdc42, and is an integral component of growth factor signaling networks and cellular functions fundamental to tumorigenesis. METHODS PAK1 dysregulation (copy number gain, mRNA and protein expression) was evaluated in two cohorts of breast cancer tissues (n=980 and 1,108). A novel small molecule inhibitor, FRAX1036, and RNA interference were used to examine PAK1 loss of function and combination with docetaxel in vitro. Mechanism of action for the therapeutic combination, both cellular and molecular, was assessed via time-lapse microscopy and immunoblotting. RESULTS We demonstrate that focal genomic amplification and overexpression of PAK1 are associated with poor clinical outcome in the luminal subtype of breast cancer (P=1.29×10(-4) and P=0.015, respectively). Given the role for PAK1 in regulating cytoskeletal organization, we hypothesized that combination of PAK1 inhibition with taxane treatment could be combined to further interfere with microtubule dynamics and cell survival. Consistent with this, administration of docetaxel with either a novel small molecule inhibitor of group I PAKs, FRAX1036, or PAK1 small interfering RNA oligonucleotides dramatically altered signaling to cytoskeletal-associated proteins, such as stathmin, and induced microtubule disorganization and cellular apoptosis. Live-cell imaging revealed that the duration of mitotic arrest mediated by docetaxel was significantly reduced in the presence of FRAX1036, and this was associated with increased kinetics of apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these findings further support PAK1 as a potential target in breast cancer and suggest combination with taxanes as a viable strategy to increase anti-tumor efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy C Ong
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sarah Gierke
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Cameron Pitt
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
- New address: University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Meredith Sagolla
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Christine K Cheng
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Adrian M Jubb
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Laura Strickland
- Department of Diagnostics, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Maike Schmidt
- Department of Diagnostics, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sergio G Duron
- Afraxis, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- New address: COI Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - David A Campbell
- Afraxis, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- New address: COI Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Wei Zheng
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Seameen Dehdashti
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- New address: Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA.
| | - Min Shen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Nora Yang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Mark L Behnke
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Wenwei Huang
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - John C McKew
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- New address: aTyr Pharma, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | | | - William F Forrest
- Department of Biostatistics, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Peter M Haverty
- Department of Bioinformatics, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | - Emad A Rakha
- Histopathology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Andrew R Green
- Histopathology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Ian O Ellis
- Histopathology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Carlos Caldas
- Cancer Research UK, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Thomas O'Brien
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Lori S Friedman
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Hartmut Koeppen
- Department of Pathology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Joachim Rudolph
- Discovery Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Klaus P Hoeflich
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
- New address: Blueprint Medicines, Cambridge, MA, UK.
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49
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Rudolph J, Crawford JJ, Hoeflich KP, Wang W. Inhibitors of p21-activated kinases (PAKs). J Med Chem 2014; 58:111-29. [PMID: 25415869 DOI: 10.1021/jm501613q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The p21-activated kinase (PAK) family of serine/threonine protein kinases plays important roles in cytoskeletal organization, cellular morphogenesis, and survival, and members of this family have been implicated in many diseases including cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders. Owing to their large and flexible ATP binding cleft, PAKs, particularly group I PAKs (PAK1, -2, and -3), are difficult to drug; hence, few PAK inhibitors with satisfactory kinase selectivity and druglike properties have been reported to date. Examples are a recently discovered group II PAK (PAK4, -5, -6) selective inhibitor series based on a benzimidazole core, a group I PAK selective series based on a pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine-7-one core, and an allosteric dibenzodiazepine PAK1 inhibitor series. Only one compound, an aminopyrazole based pan-PAK inhibitor, entered clinical trials but did not progress beyond phase I trials. Clinical proof of concept for pan-group I, pan-group II, or PAK isoform selective inhibition has yet to be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Rudolph
- Discovery Chemistry, and ‡Structural Biology, Genentech , 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
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50
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Chabu C, Xu T. Oncogenic Ras stimulates Eiger/TNF exocytosis to promote growth. Development 2014; 141:4729-39. [PMID: 25411211 DOI: 10.1242/dev.108092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in Ras deregulate cell death and proliferation to cause cancer in a significant number of patients. Although normal Ras signaling during development has been well elucidated in multiple organisms, it is less clear how oncogenic Ras exerts its effects. Furthermore, cancers with oncogenic Ras mutations are aggressive and generally resistant to targeted therapies or chemotherapy. We identified the exocytosis component Sec15 as a synthetic suppressor of oncogenic Ras in an in vivo Drosophila mosaic screen. We found that oncogenic Ras elevates exocytosis and promotes the export of the pro-apoptotic ligand Eiger (Drosophila TNF). This blocks tumor cell death and stimulates overgrowth by activating the JNK-JAK-STAT non-autonomous proliferation signal from the neighboring wild-type cells. Inhibition of Eiger/TNF exocytosis or interfering with the JNK-JAK-STAT non-autonomous proliferation signaling at various steps suppresses oncogenic Ras-mediated overgrowth. Our findings highlight important cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic roles of exocytosis during oncogenic growth and provide a new class of synthetic suppressors for targeted therapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiswili Chabu
- Department of Genetics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, Boyer Center for Molecular Medicine, 295 Congress Avenue, New Haven, CT 06536, USA
| | - Tian Xu
- Department of Genetics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, Boyer Center for Molecular Medicine, 295 Congress Avenue, New Haven, CT 06536, USA
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