Role of CBP/P300 in nuclear receptor signalling

Crotonylation modification and its role in diseases

Protein lysine crotonylation is a novel acylation modification discovered in 2011, which plays a key role in the regulation of various biological processes. Thousands of crotonylation sites have been identified in histone and non-histone proteins over the past decades. Crotonylation is conserved and is regulated by a series of enzymes including "writer", "eraser", and "reader". In recent years, crotonylation has received extensive attention due to its breakthrough progress in reproduction, development and pathogenesis of diseases. Here we brief the crotonylation-related enzyme systems, biological functions, and diseases caused by abnormal crotonylation, which provide new ideas for developing disease intervention and treatment regimens.

Transcriptomic analysis of genes associated with vitamin D receptor signalling reveals differences between skin cancers

Vitamin D activates the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which dimerizes preferentially with the retinoid X receptor-α (RXRα). This heterodimer connects with genetic elements responsive to vitamin D, inhibiting or stimulating gene activity. We performed Nanostring® analysis of VDR/RXRα to compare the mRNA expression of this heterodimer and their correlated transcriptomes in non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC)) and melanocytic lesions (intradermal nevi (IN), and melanomas (MM)) with control skin. To evaluate VDR, RXRα and other 22 correlated genes in BCC, SCC, IN and MM, paraffin samples had their transcriptomes analysed using Nanostring®, a platform that allows multiple mRNA analyses. There were 46 samples, including 11 BCC, 10 SCC, 10 IN, 12 MM and 3 pools of control skins. Most mRNAs differed between the lesion groups and the control group. BCC and SCC NCOR2 were upregulated; in MM and IN, RXRγ was higher than in the control group. TP53, FOXO3 and MED1 showed a significant difference when we compared the BCC group to the SCC group. Melanoma and intradermal nevi differed only in AhR. VDR and RXRα were lower than the control in all groups. The panel shows a clear difference between the non-melanocytic cancers and, on the other hand, a slight difference between the melanocytic lesions. The study of vitamin D's influence through its receptor and RXRα is an exciting issue for understanding the importance of this pathway, and the present study can impact the prevention and treatment strategies, mainly in non-melanocytic tumours.

Natural compounds targeting nuclear receptors for effective cancer therapy

Human nuclear receptors (NRs) are a family of forty-eight transcription factors that modulate gene expression both spatially and temporally. Numerous biochemical, physiological, and pathological processes including cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, immune modulation, development, reproduction, and aging are extensively orchestrated by different NRs. The involvement of dysregulated NRs and NR-mediated signaling pathways in driving cancer cell hallmarks has been thoroughly investigated. Targeting NRs has been one of the major focuses of drug development strategies for cancer interventions. Interestingly, rapid progress in molecular biology and drug screening reveals that the naturally occurring compounds are promising modern oncology drugs which are free of potentially inevitable repercussions that are associated with synthetic compounds. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to draw our attention to the potential therapeutic effects of various classes of natural compounds that target NRs such as phytochemicals, dietary components, venom constituents, royal jelly-derived compounds, and microbial derivatives in the establishment of novel and safe medications for cancer treatment. This review also emphasizes molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that are leveraged to promote the anti-cancer effects of these natural compounds. We have also critically reviewed and assessed the advantages and limitations of current preclinical and clinical studies on this subject for cancer prophylaxis. This might subsequently pave the way for new paradigms in the discovery of drugs that target specific cancer types.

Steroid-receptor coactivator complexes in thyroid hormone-regulation of Xenopus metamorphosis

Anuran metamorphosis is perhaps the most drastic developmental change regulated by thyroid hormone (T3) in vertebrate. It mimics the postembryonic development in mammals when many organs/tissues mature into adult forms and plasma T3 level peaks. T3 functions by regulating target gene transcription through T3 receptors (TRs), which can recruit corepressor or coactivator complexes to target genes in the absence or presence of T3, respectively. By using molecular and genetic approaches, we and others have investigated the role of corepressor or coactivator complexes in TR function during the development of two highly related anuran species, the pseudo-tetraploid Xenopus laevis and diploid Xenopus tropicalis. Here we will review some of these studies that demonstrate a critical role of coactivator complexes, particularly those containing steroid receptor coactivator (SRC) 3, in regulating metamorphic rate and ensuring the completion of metamorphosis.

Phase-separation: a possible new layer for transcriptional regulation by glucocorticoid receptor

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are hormones involved in circadian adaptation and stress response, and it is also noteworthy that these steroidal molecules present potent anti-inflammatory action through GC receptors (GR). Upon ligand-mediated activation, GR translocates to the nucleus, and regulates gene expression related to metabolism, acute-phase response and innate immune response. GR field of research has evolved considerably in the last decades, providing varied mechanisms that contributed to the understanding of transcriptional regulation and also impacted drug design for treating inflammatory diseases. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in cellular processes represents a recent topic in biology that conceptualizes membraneless organelles and microenvironments that promote, or inhibit, chemical reactions and interactions of protein or nucleic acids. The formation of these molecular condensates has been implicated in gene expression control, and recent evidence shows that GR and other steroid receptors can nucleate phase separation (PS). Here we briefly review the varied mechanisms of transcriptional control by GR, which are largely studied in the context of inflammation, and further present how PS can be involved in the control of gene expression. Lastly, we consider how the reported advances on LLPS during transcription control, specially for steroid hormone receptors, could impact the different modalities of GR action on gene expression, adding a new plausible molecular event in glucocorticoid signal transduction.

Retinoic acid receptors at 35 years

For almost a century, vitamin A has been known as a nutrient critical for normal development, differentiation, and homeostasis; accordingly, there has been much interest in understanding its mechanism of action. This review is about the discovery of specific receptors for the vitamin A derivative, retinoic acid (RA), which launched extensive molecular, genetic, and structural investigations into these new members of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcriptional regulators. These included two families of receptors, the RAR isotypes (α, β, and γ) along with three RXR isotypes (α, β, and γ), which bind as RXR/RAR heterodimers to cis-acting response elements of RA target genes to generate a high degree of complexity. Such studies have provided deep molecular insight into how the widespread pleiotropic effects of RA can be generated.

Transcriptional Activation of Ecdysone-Responsive Genes Requires H3K27 Acetylation at Enhancers

The steroid hormone ecdysone regulates insect development via its nuclear receptor (the EcR protein), which functions as a ligand-dependent transcription factor. The EcR regulates target gene expression by binding to ecdysone response elements (EcREs) in their promoter or enhancer regions. Its role in epigenetic regulation and, particularly, in histone acetylation remains to be clarified. Here, we analyzed the dynamics of histone acetylation and demonstrated that the acetylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27) at enhancers was required for the transcriptional activation of ecdysone-responsive genes. Western blotting and ChIP-qPCR revealed that ecdysone altered the acetylation of H3K27. For E75B and Hr4, ecdysone-responsive genes, enhancer activity, and transcription required the histone acetyltransferase activity of the CBP. EcR binding was critical in inducing enhancer activity and H3K27 acetylation. The CREB-binding protein (CBP) HAT domain catalyzed H3K27 acetylation and CBP coactivation with EcR, independent of the presence of ecdysone. Increased H3K27 acetylation promoted chromatin accessibility, with the EcR and CBP mediating a local chromatin opening in response to ecdysone. Hence, epigenetic mechanisms, including the modification of acetylation and chromatin accessibility, controlled ecdysone-dependent gene transcription.

Thyroid Hormone-mediated Histone Modification Protects Cortical Neurons From the Toxic Effects of Hypoxic Injury

Context

Thyroid hormone has been shown to have a protective role in neuronal injury, although the mechanisms have not been established. The cellular response to stress that promotes adaptation and survival has been shown to involve epigenetic modifications.

Objective

We hypothesized that the neuroprotective role of thyroid hormone was associated with epigenetic modifications of histone proteins. We used hypoxic neurons as a model system for hypoxia-induced brain injury.

Methods

Mouse primary cortical neurons were exposed to 0.2% oxygen for 7 hours, with or without, treatment with triiodothyronine (T3). We analyzed the expression of histone-modifying enzymes by RNA-seq and the post-translationally modified histone 3 proteins by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot.

Results

We found that methylation of H3K27, associated with inactive promoters, was highly induced in hypoxic neurons, and this histone methylation was reduced by T3 treatment. H3K4 methylation is the hallmark of active promoters. The expression of 3 (Set1db, Kmta2c, and Kmt2e) out of 6 H3K4 methyltransferases was downregulated by hypoxia and expression was restored by T3 treatment. H3K4me3 protein, measured by ELISA, was increased 76% in T3-treated hypoxic neurons compared with the levels without T3 treatment. H3K56ac plays a critical role in transcription initiation and was markedly increased in T3-treated hypoxic neurons compared with those without T3 treatment, indicating stimulation of gene transcription. Additionally, T3 treatment restored hypoxia-induced downregulation of histone acetyltransferase, Kat6a, Kat6b, and Crebbp, which function as transcription factors.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that T3 treatment mitigates hypoxia-induced histone modifications and protects neurons from hypoxia-induced injury.

Estradiol and Estrogen-like Alternative Therapies in Use: The Importance of the Selective and Non-Classical Actions

Estrogen is one of the most important female sex hormones, and is indispensable for reproduction. However, its role is much wider. Among others, due to its neuroprotective effects, estrogen protects the brain against dementia and complications of traumatic injury. Previously, it was used mainly as a therapeutic option for influencing the menstrual cycle and treating menopausal symptoms. Unfortunately, hormone replacement therapy might be associated with detrimental side effects, such as increased risk of stroke and breast cancer, raising concerns about its safety. Thus, tissue-selective and non-classical estrogen analogues have become the focus of interest. Here, we review the current knowledge about estrogen effects in a broader sense, and the possibility of using selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs), selective estrogen-receptor downregulators (SERDs), phytoestrogens, and activators of non-genomic estrogen-like signaling (ANGELS) molecules as treatment.

Androgen Receptor-Mediated Transcription in Prostate Cancer

Androgen receptor (AR)-mediated transcription is critical in almost all stages of prostate cancer (PCa) growth and differentiation. This process involves a complex interplay of coregulatory proteins, chromatin remodeling complexes, and other transcription factors that work with AR at cis-regulatory enhancer regions to induce the spatiotemporal transcription of target genes. This enhancer-driven mechanism is remarkably dynamic and undergoes significant alterations during PCa progression. In this review, we discuss the AR mechanism of action in PCa with a focus on how cis-regulatory elements modulate gene expression. We explore emerging evidence of genetic variants that can impact AR regulatory regions and alter gene transcription in PCa. Finally, we highlight several outstanding questions and discuss potential mechanisms of this critical transcription factor.

The pleiotropic peroxisome proliferator activated receptors: Regulation and therapeutics

The Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are key regulators of metabolic events in our body. Owing to their implication in maintenance of homeostasis, both PPAR agonists and antagonists assume therapeutic significance. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of each of the PPAR isotypes in the healthy body and during disease is crucial to exploiting their full therapeutic potential. This article is an attempt to present a rational analysis of the multifaceted therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of isotype-specific PPAR agonists, dual PPAR agonists, pan PPAR agonists as well as PPAR antagonists. A holistic understanding of the mechanistic dimensions of these key metabolic regulators will guide future efforts to identify novel molecules in the realm of metabolic, inflammatory and immunotherapeutic diseases.

Expression of the adult ADHD-associated gene ADGRL3 is dysregulated by risk variants and environmental risk factors

OBJECTIVES

ADGRL3 is a well-replicated risk gene for adult ADHD, encoding the G protein-coupled receptor latrophilin-3 (LPHN3). However, LPHN3's potential role in pathogenesis is unclear. We aimed to determine whether ADGRL3 expression could be dysregulated by genetic risk variants and/or ADHD-associated environmental risk factors.

METHODS

Eighteen adult ADHD patients and healthy controls were genotyped for rs734644, rs1397547, rs1397548, rs2271338, rs2305339, rs2345039 and rs6551665 ADGRL3 SNPs, and fibroblast cells were derived from skin punches. The environmental ADHD risk factors 'low birthweight' and 'maternal smoking' were modelled in fibroblast cell culture using starvation and nicotine exposure, respectively. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to quantify ADGRL3 gene and protein expression under control, starvation and nicotine-exposed conditions.

RESULTS

Starvation was found to significantly decrease ADGRL3 expression, whereas nicotine exposure significantly increased ADGRL3 expression. rs1397547 significantly elevated ADGRL3 transcription and protein expression. rs6551665 and rs2345039 interacted with environment to modulate ADGRL3 transcription. ADGRL3 SNPs were significantly able to predict its transcription under both baseline and starvation conditions, and rs1397547 was identified as a significant independent predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

ADGRL3 SNPs and environmental risk factors can regulate ADGRL3 expression, providing a potential functional mechanism by which LPHN3 may play a role in ADHD pathogenesis.

The transcription factor code: a beacon for histone methyltransferase docking

Histone methylation is required for the establishment and maintenance of gene expression patterns that determine cellular identity, and its perturbation often leads to aberrant development and disease. Recruitment of histone methyltransferases (HMTs) to gene regulatory elements (GREs) of developmental genes is important for the correct activation and silencing of these genes, but the drivers of this recruitment are largely unknown. Here we propose that lineage-instructive transcription factors (Lin-TFs) act as general recruiters of HMT complexes to cell type-specific GREs through protein-protein interactions. We also postulate that the specificity of these interactions is dictated by Lin-TF post-translational modifications (PTMs), which act as a 'transcription factor code' that can determine the directionality of cell fate decisions during differentiation and development.

A coregulator shift, rather than the canonical switch, underlies thyroid hormone action in the liver

In this study, Shabtai et al. investigated the mechanism of thyroid hormone (TH)-dependent gene repression, generated a mouse line in which endogenous thyroid hormone receptor TRβ1 was epitope-tagged to allow precise chromatin immunoprecipitation at the low physiological levels of thyroid hormone receptors (TR), and defined high-confidence binding sites where TR functioned at enhancers regulated in the same direction as the nearest gene in a TRβ-dependent manner. Their results demonstrate that, in contrast to the canonical “all or none” coregulator switch model, TH regulates gene expression by orchestrating a shift in the relative binding of corepressors and coactivators.

Thyroid hormones (THs) are powerful regulators of metabolism with major effects on body weight, cholesterol, and liver fat that have been exploited pharmacologically for many years. Activation of gene expression by TH action is canonically ascribed to a hormone-dependent “switch” from corepressor to activator binding to thyroid hormone receptors (TRs), while the mechanism of TH-dependent repression is controversial. To address this, we generated a mouse line in which endogenous TRβ1 was epitope-tagged to allow precise chromatin immunoprecipitation at the low physiological levels of TR and defined high-confidence binding sites where TRs functioned at enhancers regulated in the same direction as the nearest gene in a TRβ-dependent manner. Remarkably, although positive and negative regulation by THs have been ascribed to different mechanisms, TR binding was highly enriched at canonical DR4 motifs irrespective of the transcriptional direction of the enhancer. The canonical NCoR1/HDAC3 corepressor complex was reduced but not completely dismissed by TH and, surprisingly, similar effects were seen at enhancers associated with negatively as well as positively regulated genes. Conversely, coactivator CBP was found at all TH-regulated enhancers, with transcriptional activity correlating with the ratio of CBP to NCoR rather than their presence or absence. These results demonstrate that, in contrast to the canonical “all or none” coregulator switch model, THs regulate gene expression by orchestrating a shift in the relative binding of corepressors and coactivators.

Isotretinoin and the Kidney: Opportunities and Threats

Retinoids are one of the most effective drugs in inducing complete or prolonged remission of severe acne vulgaris, but the adverse reactions associated with the use of them are raising a concern about the potential effect of these drugs on internal organs function such as the kidney. The aim of this review is to comprehensively gather data about isotretinoin, both potential adverse and beneficial effects on the kidney based on the current experimental and clinical findings. Very few studies, including five case reports, described that systemic oral isotretinoin within usual doses (40 mg/day or 0.5 mg/kg⁄day) within 1 to 4 months of treatment might be associated with different types of renal dysfunctions. These include acute interstitial nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and hematuria with dysuria. The adverse reactions of systemic isotretinoin on the kidney and urinary system are unlikely and rare. In contrast, six experimental studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of either oral or parenteral low- (2 or 5 mg/kg/day) or high- (10, 20, 25, 40 mg/kg/day) dose isotretinoin on the kidney in the rat models of glomerulonephritis, obstructive nephropathy or allograft nephropathy. The nephroprotective functions of isotretinoin in these studies were attributed to its anti-proliferative, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory actions. However, clinical studies are warranted to elucidate the possible beneficial effects of isotretinoin in preventing or attenuating kidney injury in different settings.

Multiple mechanisms regulate H3 acetylation of enhancers in response to thyroid hormone

Hormone-dependent activation of enhancers includes histone hyperacetylation and mediator recruitment. Histone hyperacetylation is mostly explained by a bimodal switch model, where histone deacetylases (HDACs) disassociate from chromatin, and histone acetyl transferases (HATs) are recruited. This model builds on decades of research on steroid receptor regulation of transcription. Yet, the general concept of the bimodal switch model has not been rigorously tested genome wide. We have used a genomics approach to study enhancer hyperacetylation by the thyroid hormone receptor (TR), described to operate as a bimodal switch. H3 acetylation, HAT and HDAC ChIP-seq analyses of livers from hypo- and hyperthyroid wildtype, TR deficient and NCOR1 disrupted mice reveal three types of thyroid hormone (T3)-regulated enhancers. One subset of enhancers is bound by HDAC3-NCOR1 in the absence of hormone and constitutively occupy TR and HATs irrespective of T3 levels, suggesting a poised enhancer state in absence of hormone. In presence of T3, HDAC3-NCOR1 dissociates from these enhancers leading to histone hyperacetylation, suggesting a histone acetylation rheostat function of HDACs at poised enhancers. Another subset of enhancers, not occupied by HDACs, is hyperacetylated in a T3-dependent manner, where TR is recruited to chromatin together with HATs. Lastly, a subset of enhancers, is not occupied directly by TR yet requires TR for histone hyperacetylation. This indirect enhancer activation involves co-association with TR bound enhancers within super-enhancers or topological associated domains. Collectively, this demonstrates various mechanisms controlling hormone-dependent transcription and adds significant details to the otherwise simple bimodal switch model.

Thyroid hormone (T3) is a central regulator of growth, thermogenesis, heart rate and metabolism. In the liver T3 binds thyroid hormone receptor beta (TRβ) controlling expression of genes involved in processes such as lipid and cholesterol metabolism. The molecular mechanisms controlling TR-dependent gene regulation are centred on a bimodal switch model. In the absence of T3 co-repressors bind TR reducing gene expression. When hormone binds TR, co-repressors dissociate, and co-activators are recruited inducing gene expression. This model predominates the current understanding of T3-regulated gene expression. However, only a few studies have tested this model by genome-wide approaches. We have quantified histone3 acetylation genome-wide in the liver of hypo- and hyperthyroid mice and identified gene regulatory regions regulated by T3. Probing TR and co-regulators at these regulatory regions, and analysing histone3 acetylation in mouse models for disrupted co-repressor and TR activity, reveal additional insights to the mechanisms regulating T3-dependent gene expression. We suggest a revision of the prevailing bimodal switch model which helps understanding T3-regulated gene expression in tissues such as liver. We hope that this study, together with future studies, will add new perspectives on nuclear receptor-mediated transcriptional regulation to reveal general principles.

Therapeutic targeting of circ-CUX1/EWSR1/MAZ axis inhibits glycolysis and neuroblastoma progression

Aerobic glycolysis is a hallmark of metabolic reprogramming in tumor progression. However, the mechanisms regulating glycolytic gene expression remain elusive in neuroblastoma (NB), the most common extracranial malignancy in childhood. Herein, we identify that CUT‐like homeobox 1 (CUX1) and CUX1‐generated circular RNA (circ‐CUX1) contribute to aerobic glycolysis and NB progression. Mechanistically, p110 CUX1, a transcription factor generated by proteolytic processing of p200 CUX1, promotes the expression of enolase 1, glucose‐6‐phosphate isomerase, and phosphoglycerate kinase 1, while circ‐CUX1 binds to EWS RNA‐binding protein 1 (EWSR1) to facilitate its interaction with MYC‐associated zinc finger protein (MAZ), resulting in transactivation of MAZ and transcriptional alteration of CUX1 and other genes associated with tumor progression. Administration of an inhibitory peptide blocking circ‐CUX1‐EWSR1 interaction or lentivirus mediating circ‐CUX1 knockdown suppresses aerobic glycolysis, growth, and aggressiveness of NB cells. In clinical NB cases, CUX1 is an independent prognostic factor for unfavorable outcome, and patients with high circ‐CUX1 expression have lower survival probability. These results indicate circ‐CUX1/EWSR1/MAZ axis as a therapeutic target for aerobic glycolysis and NB progression.

Y08197 is a novel and selective CBP/EP300 bromodomain inhibitor for the treatment of prostate cancer

In advanced prostate cancer, CREB (cAMP-responsive element-binding protein) binding protein (CBP) and its homolog EP300 are highly expressed; targeting the bromodomain of CBP is a new strategy for the treatment of prostate cancer. In the current study we identified Y08197, a novel 1-(indolizin-3-yl) ethanone derivative, as a selective inhibitor of CBP/EP300 bromodomain and explored its antitumor activity against prostate cancer cell lines in vitro. In the AlphaScreen assay, we demonstrated that Y08197 dose-dependently inhibited the CBP bromodomain with an IC₅₀ value at 100.67 ± 3.30 nM. Y08197 also exhibited high selectivity for CBP/EP300 over other bromodomain-containing proteins. In LNCaP, 22Rv1 and VCaP prostate cancer cells, treatment with Y08197 (1, 5 μM) strongly affected downstream signaling transduction, thus markedly inhibiting the expression of androgen receptor (AR)-regulated genes PSA, KLK2, TMPRSS2, and oncogenes C-MYC and ERG. Notably, Y08197 potently inhibited cell growth in several AR-positive prostate cancer cell lines including LNCaP, 22Rv1, VCaP, and C4-2B. In 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells, treatment with Y08197 (1, 4, 16 μM) dose-dependently induced G₀/G₁ phase arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, treatment with Y08197 (5 μM) significantly decreased ERG-induced invasive capacity of 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells detected in wound-healing assay and cell migration assay. Taken together, CBP/EP300 inhibitor Y08197 represents a promising lead compound for development as new therapeutics for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer.

Exclusive Temporal Stimulation of IL-10 Expression in LPS-Stimulated Mouse Macrophages by cAMP Inducers and Type I Interferons

Expression of the key anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages is mediated by a delayed autocrine/paracrine loop of type I interferons (IFN) to ensure timely attenuation of inflammation. We have previously shown that cAMP synergizes with early IL-10 expression by LPS, but is unable to amplify the late type I IFN-dependent activity. We now examined the mechanism of this synergistic transcription in mouse macrophages at the promoter level, and explored the crosstalk between type I IFN signaling and cAMP, using the β-adrenergic receptor agonist, isoproterenol, as a cAMP inducer. We show that silencing of the type I IFN receptor enables isoproterenol to synergize with LPS also at the late phase, implying that autocrine type I IFN activity hinders synergistic augmentation of LPS-stimulated IL-10 expression by cAMP at the late phase. Furthermore, IL-10 expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages is exclusively stimulated by either IFNα or isoproterenol. We identified a set of two proximate and inter-dependent cAMP response element (CRE) sites that cooperatively regulate early IL-10 transcription in response to isoproterenol-stimulated CREB and that further synergize with a constitutive Sp1 site. At the late phase, up-regulation of Sp1 activity by LPS-stimulated type I IFN is correlated with loss of function of the CRE sites, suggesting a mechanism for the loss of synergism when LPS-stimulated macrophages switch to type I IFN-dependent IL-10 expression. This report delineates the molecular mechanism of cAMP-accelerated IL-10 transcription in LPS-stimulated murine macrophages that can limit inflammation at its onset.

Nuclear hormone receptors: Ancient 9aaTAD and evolutionally gained NCoA activation pathways

In higher metazoans, the nuclear hormone receptors activate transcription trough their specific adaptors, nuclear hormone receptor adaptors NCoA, which are absent in lower metazoans. The Nine amino acid TransActivation Domain, 9aaTAD, was reported for a large number of the transcription activators that recruit general mediators of transcription. In this study, we demonstrated that the 9aaTAD from NHR-49 receptor of nematode C.elegans activates transcription as a small peptide. We showed that the ancient 9aaTAD domains are conserved in the nuclear hormone receptors including human HNF4, RARa, VDR and PPARg. Also their small 9aaTAD peptides effectively activated transcription in absence of the NCoA adaptors. We also showed that adjacent H11 domains in ancient and modern hormone receptors have an inhibitory effect on their 9aaTAD function.

Transcriptional Regulation by Nrf2

SIGNIFICANCE

Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that coordinates the basal and stress-inducible activation of a vast array of cytoprotective genes. Understanding the regulation of Nrf2 activity and downstream pathways has major implications for human health. Recent Advances: Nrf2 regulates the transcription of components of the glutathione and thioredoxin antioxidant systems, as well as enzymes involved in phase I and phase II detoxification of exogenous and endogenous products, NADPH regeneration, and heme metabolism. It therefore represents a crucial regulator of the cellular defense mechanisms against xenobiotic and oxidative stress. In addition to antioxidant responses, Nrf2 is involved in other cellular processes, such as autophagy, intermediary metabolism, stem cell quiescence, and unfolded protein response. Given the wide range of processes that Nrf2 controls, its activity is tightly regulated at multiple levels. Here, we review the different modes of regulation of Nrf2 activity and the current knowledge of Nrf2-mediated transcriptional control.

CRITICAL ISSUES

It is now clear that Nrf2 lies at the center of a complex regulatory network. A full comprehension of the Nrf2 program will require an integrated consideration of all the different factors determining Nrf2 activity.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Additional computational and experimental studies are needed to obtain a more dynamic global view of Nrf2-mediated gene regulation. In particular, studies comparing how the Nrf2-dependent network changes from a physiological to a pathological condition can provide insight into mechanisms of disease and instruct new treatment strategies.

Tannic acid, a novel histone acetyltransferase inhibitor, prevents non-alcoholic fatty liver disease both in vivo and in vitro model

Objective

We examined the potential of tannic acid (TA) as a novel histone acetyltransferase inhibitor (HATi) and demonstrated that TA prevents non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by inhibiting HAT activity.

Methods

The anti-HAT activity of TA was examined using HAT activity assays. An in vitro NAFLD model was generated by treating HepG2 cells with oleic and palmitic acids. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a control diet (CD) or Western diet (WD) with or without supplementation with either 1% or 3% TA (w/w) for 12 weeks. Finally, the possibility of interacting p300 and TA was simulated.

Results

TA suppressed HAT activity both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, TA abrogated occupancy of p300 on the sterol regulatory element in the fatty acid synthase and ATP-citrate lyase promoters, eventually inducing hypoacetylation of H3K9 and H3K36. Furthermore, TA decreased acetylation at lysine residues 9 and 36 of histone H3 protein and that of total proteins. Consequently, TA decreased the mRNA expression of lipogenesis-related genes and attenuated lipid accumulation in vivo. We observed that NAFLD features, including body weight, liver mass, fat mass, and lipid profile in serum, were improved by TA supplementation in vivo. Finally, we demonstrated the possibility that TA directly binds to p300 through docking simulation between ligand and protein.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that TA, a novel HATi, has potential application for the prevention of NAFLD.

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Tannic acid is a general inhibitor of histone acetyltransferase.

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Tannic acid decreases transcriptional activity of the lipogenesis-related genes through its HATi activity.

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Tannic acid ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in the western diet-fed mice through its HATi activity.

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Tannic acid binds to EP300, possibly reducing its activity through inducing conformational change of EP300.

Mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptor-mediated control of genomic responses to stress in the brain

Successful coping with stressful events involves adaptive and cognitive processes in the brain that make the individual more resilient to similar stressors in the future. Stressful events result in the secretion of glucocorticoids (GCs) from the adrenal glands into the blood stream. Early work proved instrumental for developing the concept that these hormones act in the brain to coordinate physiological and behavioral responses to stress through binding to two different GC-binding receptors. Once activated these receptors translocate to the nucleus where they act on target genes to facilitate (or sometimes inhibit) transcription. There are two types of receptors in the brain, the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR). This review summarizes recent work which provides new insights regarding the genomic action of these receptors, both under baseline conditions and following exposure to acute stress. This work is discussed alongside the extensive studies undertaken in this field previously and new, and exciting "big data" studies which have generated a wealth of relevant data. The consequence of these new insights will challenge existing assumptions about the role of MRs and GRs and pave the way for the implementation of novel and improved methodologies to identify the role these corticosteroid receptors have in stress-related behavioral adaptation.

Somatic EP300-G211S mutations are associated with overall somatic mutational patterns and breast cancer specific survival in triple-negative breast cancer

PURPOSE

We have compared the mutational profiles of human breast cancer tumor samples belonging to all major subgroups with special emphasis on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Our major goal was to identify specific mutations that could be potentially used for clinical decision making in TNBC patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Primary tumor specimens from 149 Norwegian breast cancer patients were available. We analyzed the tissue samples for somatic mutations in 44 relevant breast cancer genes by targeted next-generation sequencing. As a second confirmatory technique, we performed pyrosequencing on selected samples.

RESULTS

We observed a distinct subgroup of TNBC patients, characterized by an almost completely lack of pathogenic somatic mutations. A point mutation in the adenoviral E1A binding protein p300 (EP300-G211S) was significantly correlated to this TNBC subgroup. The EP300-G211S mutation was exclusively found in the TNBC patients and its presence reduced the chance for other pathological somatic mutations in typical breast cancer genes investigated in our gene panel by 94.9% (P < 0.005). Interestingly, the EP300-G211S mutation also predicted a lower risk for relapses and decreased breast cancer-specific mortality during long-term follow-up of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Next-generation sequencing revealed specific mutations in EP300 to be associated with the mutational patterns in typical breast cancer genes and long-term outcome of triple-negative breast cancer patients.

The NRF2‑PGC‑1β pathway activates kynurenine aminotransferase 4 via attenuation of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, synoviolin, in a cecal ligation/perforation‑induced septic mouse model

Sepsis‑associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome of which the precise associated mechanisms remain unclear. Synoviolin (Syvn1) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in conditions associated with chronic inflammation, including rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, fibrosis and liver cirrhosis. However, the role of Syvn1 in acute inflammation is not clear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of Syvn1 in a septic mouse model induced by cecal ligation/perforation (CLP). Metabolome analysis revealed that kynurenine (KYN), a key factor for the development of neuroinflammation, was increased in CLP‑induced septic mice. Notably, KYN was not detected in CLP‑induced septic Syvn1‑deficient mice. KYN is converted to kynurenic acid (KYNA) by kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs), which has a neuroprotective effect. The expression of KAT4 was significantly increased in Syvn1‑deficient mice compared to that in wild‑type mice. Promoter analysis demonstrated that Syvn1 knockdown induced the KAT4 promoter activity, as assessed by luciferase reporter activity, whereas Syvn1 overexpression repressed this activity in a dose‑dependent manner. Furthermore, the KAT4 promoter was significantly activated by the transcriptional factors, NF‑E2‑related factor 2 and peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor coactivator 1β, which are targets of Syvn1‑induced degradation. In conclusion, the results of the current study demonstrates that the repression of Syvn1 expression induces the conversion of neurotoxic KYN to neuroprotective KYNA in a CLP‑induced mouse model of sepsis, and that Syvn1 is a potential novel target for the treatment of SAE.

Loci-specific histone acetylation profiles associated with transcriptional coactivator p300 during early myoblast differentiation

Molecular regulation of stem cell differentiation is exerted through both genetic and epigenetic determinants over distal regulatory or enhancer regions. Understanding the mechanistic action of active or poised enhancers is therefore imperative for control of stem cell differentiation. Based on the genome-wide co-occurrence of different epigenetic marks in committed proliferating myoblasts, we have previously generated a 14-state chromatin state model to profile rexinoid-responsive histone acetylation in early myoblast differentiation. Here, we delineate the functional mode of transcription regulators during early myogenic differentiation using genome-wide chromatin state association. We define a role of transcriptional coactivator p300, when recruited by muscle master regulator MyoD, in the establishment and regulation of myogenic loci at the onset of myoblast differentiation. In addition, we reveal an enrichment of loci-specific histone acetylation at p300 associated active or poised enhancers, particularly when enlisted by MyoD. We provide novel molecular insights into the regulation of myogenic enhancers by p300 in concert with MyoD. Our studies present a valuable aptitude for driving condition-specific chromatin state or enhancers pharmacologically to treat muscle-related diseases and for the identification of additional myogenic targets and molecular interactions for therapeutic development.

Abbreviations: MRF: Muscle regulatory factor; HAT: Histone acetyltransferase; CBP: CREB-binding protein; ES: Embryonic stem; ATCC: American type culture collection; DM: Differentiation medium; DMEM: Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium; GM: Growth medium; GO: Gene ontology; GREAT: Genomic regions enrichment of annotations tool; FPKM: Fragments per kilobase of transcript per million; GEO: Gene expression omnibus; MACS: Model-based analysis for ChIP-seq

ERα activity depends on interaction and target site corecruitment with phosphorylated CREB1

The two transcription factors estrogen receptor α (ERα) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1) mediate different signals, bind different response elements, and control different transcriptional programs. And yet, results obtained with transfected reporter genes suggested that their activities may intersect. We demonstrate here that CREB1 stimulates and is necessary for ERα activity on a transfected reporter gene and several endogenous targets both in response to its cognate ligand estrogen and to ligand-independent activation by cAMP. The stimulatory activity of CREB1 requires its DNA binding and activation by phosphorylation, and affects the chromatin recruitment of ERα. CREB1 and ERα are biochemically associated and share hundreds to thousands of chromatin binding sites upon stimulation by estrogen and cAMP, respectively. These shared regulatory activities may underlie the anti-apoptotic effects of estrogen and cAMP signaling in ERα-positive breast cancer cells. Moreover, high levels of CREB1 are associated with good prognosis in ERα-positive breast cancer patients, which may be because of its ability to promote ERα functions, thereby maintaining it as a successful therapeutic target.

Discovery and optimization of 1-(1H-indol-1-yl)ethanone derivatives as CBP/EP300 bromodomain inhibitors for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer

The CREB (cAMP responsive element binding protein) binding protein (CBP) and its homolog EP300 have emerged as new therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Here we report the identification, optimization and evaluation of 1-(1H-indol-1-yl)ethanone derivatives as CBP/EP300 inhibitors starting from fragment-based virtual screening (FBVS). A cocrystal structure of the inhibitor (22e) in complex with CBP provides a solid structural basis for further optimization. The most potent compound 32h binds to the CBP bromodomain and has an IC₅₀ value of 0.037 μM in the AlphaScreen assay which was 2 times more potent than the reported CBP bromodomain inhibitor SGC-CBP30 in our hands. 32h also exhibit high selectivity for CBP/EP300 over other bromodomain-containing proteins. Notably, the ester derivative (29h) of compound 32h markedly inhibits cell growth in several prostate cancer cell lines including LNCaP, 22Rv1 and LNCaP derived C4-2B. Compound 29h suppresses the mRNA expression of full length AR (AR-FL), AR target genes and other oncogene in LNCaP cells. 29h also reduces the expression of PSA, the biomarker of prostate cancer. CBP/EP300 inhibitor 29h represents a promising lead compound for the development of new therapeutics for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer.

Crosstalk between Estrogen Withdrawal and NFκB Signaling following Penetrating Brain Injury

OBJECTIVES

Characterized by neuroinflammation, traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces neuropathological changes and cognitive deficits. Estrogens are neuroprotective by increasing cell survival and this increase is mediated by a decrease in neuroinflammation. To further explore the relationship between estrogens, brain injury, and neuroinflammation, we examined the expression of the IKK/NFκB complex. The IKK/NFκB complex is a pleiotropic regulator of many cellular signaling pathways linked to inflammation, as well as three major cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). We hypothesized that NFκB expression would be upregulated following injury and that this increase would be exacerbated when circulating estrogens were decreased with fadrozole (aromatase inhibitor).

METHODS

Using adult zebra finches, we first determined the expression of major components of the NFκB complex (NFκB, IκB-α, and IκB-β) following injury using qPCR. Next, male and female finches were collected at 2 time points (2 or 24 h after injury) and brain tissue was analyzed to determine whether NFκB expression was differentially expressed in males and females at either time point. Finally, we examined how the expression of NFκB changed when estrogen levels were decreased immediately after injury.

RESULTS

Our study documented an increase in the expression of the major components of the NFκB complex (NFκB, IκB-α, and IκB-β) following injury. Decreasing estrogen levels resulted in a surprising decrease in the NFκB complex studied here.

DISCUSSION

These data further expand the model of how estrogens and other steroid hormones interact with the inflammatory pathways following injury and may prove beneficial when developing therapies for treatment of TBI.

Recognition of hyperacetylated N-terminus of H2AZ by TbBDF2 from Trypanosoma brucei

Histone modification plays an important role in various biological processes, including gene expression regulation. Bromodomain, as one of histone readers, recognizes specifically the ε-N-lysine acetylation (KAc) of histone. Although the bromodomains and histone acetylation sites of Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei), a lethal parasite responsible for sleeping sickness in human and nagana in cattle, have been identified, how acetylated histones are recognized by bromodomains is still unknown. Here, the bromodomain factor 2 (TbBDF2) from T. brucei was identified to be located in the nucleolus and bind to the hyperacetylated N-terminus of H2AZ which dimerizes with H2BV. The bromodomain of TbBDF2 (TbBDF2-BD) displays a conserved fold that comprises a left-handed bundle of four α-helices (αZ, αA, αB, αC), linked by loop regions of variable length (ZA and BC loops), which form the KAc-binding pocket. NMR chemical shift perturbation further revealed that TbBDF2-BD binds to the hyperacetylated N-terminus of H2AZ through its KAc-binding pocket. By structure-based virtual screening combining with the ITC experiment, a small molecule compound, GSK2801, was shown to have high affinity to TbBDF2-BD. GSK2801 and the hyperacetylated N-terminus of H2AZ have similar binding sites on TbBDF2-BD. In addition, GSK2801 competitively inhibits the hyperacetylated N-terminus of H2AZ binding to TbBDF2-BD. After treatment of GSK2801, cell growth was inhibited and localization of TbBDF2 was disrupted. Our results report a novel bromodomain-histone recognition by TbBDF2-BD and imply that TbBDF2 may serve as a potential chemotherapeutic target for the treatment of trypanosomiasis.

Androgen Signaling in Prostate Cancer

The androgen-signaling axis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer. Since the landmark discovery by Huggins and Hodges, gonadal depletion of androgens has remained a mainstay of therapy for advanced disease. However, progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) typically follows and is largely the result of restored androgen signaling. Efforts to understand the mechanisms behind CRPC have revealed new insights into dysregulated androgen signaling and intratumoral androgen synthesis, which has ultimately led to the development of several novel androgen receptor (AR)-directed therapies for CRPC. However, emergence of resistance to these newer agents has also galvanized new directions in investigations of prereceptor and postreceptor AR regulation. Here, we review our current understanding of AR signaling as it pertains to the biology and natural history of prostate cancer.

Time, space, and disorder in the expanding proteome universe

Proteins are highly dynamic entities. Their myriad functions require specific structures, but proteins' dynamic nature ranges all the way from the local mobility of their amino acid constituents to mobility within and well beyond single cells. A truly comprehensive view of the dynamic structural proteome includes: (i) alternative sequences, (ii) alternative conformations, (iii) alternative interactions with a range of biomolecules, (iv) cellular localizations, (v) alternative behaviors in different cell types. While these aspects have traditionally been explored one protein at a time, we highlight recently emerging global approaches that accelerate comprehensive insights into these facets of the dynamic nature of protein structure. Computational tools that integrate and expand on multiple orthogonal data types promise to enable the transition from a disjointed list of static snapshots to a structurally explicit understanding of the dynamics of cellular mechanisms.

Diencephalic Size Is Restricted by a Novel Interplay Between GCN5 Acetyltransferase Activity and Retinoic Acid Signaling

Diencephalic defects underlie an array of neurological diseases. Previous studies have suggested that retinoic acid (RA) signaling is involved in diencephalic development at late stages of embryonic development, but its roles and mechanisms of action during early neural development are still unclear. Here we demonstrate that mice lacking enzymatic activity of the acetyltransferase GCN5 ((Gcn5^hat/hat )), which were previously characterized with respect to their exencephalic phenotype, exhibit significant diencephalic expansion, decreased diencephalic RA signaling, and increased diencephalic WNT and SHH signaling. Using a variety of molecular biology techniques in both cultured neuroepithelial cells treated with a GCN5 inhibitor and forebrain tissue from (Gcn5^hat/hat ) embryos, we demonstrate that GCN5, RARα/γ, and the poorly characterized protein TACC1 form a complex in the nucleus that binds specific retinoic acid response elements in the absence of RA. Furthermore, RA triggers GCN5-mediated acetylation of TACC1, which results in dissociation of TACC1 from retinoic acid response elements and leads to transcriptional activation of RA target genes. Intriguingly, RA signaling defects caused by in vitro inhibition of GCN5 can be rescued through RA-dependent mechanisms that require RARβ. Last, we demonstrate that the diencephalic expansion and transcriptional defects seen in (Gcn5^hat/hat ) mutants can be rescued with gestational RA supplementation, supporting a direct link between GCN5, TACC1, and RA signaling in the developing diencephalon. Together, our studies identify a novel, nonhistone substrate for GCN5 whose modification regulates a previously undescribed, tissue-specific mechanism of RA signaling that is required to restrict diencephalic size during early forebrain development.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Changes in diencephalic size and shape, as well as SNPs associated with retinoic acid (RA) signaling-associated genes, have been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the mechanisms that regulate diencephalic morphogenesis and the involvement of RA signaling in this process are poorly understood. Here we demonstrate a novel role of the acetyltransferase GCN5 in a previously undescribed mechanism of RA signaling in the developing forebrain that is required to maintain the appropriate size of the diencephalon. Together, our experiments identify a novel nonhistone substrate of GCN5, highlight an essential role for both GCN5 and RA signaling in early diencephalic development, and elucidate a novel molecular regulatory mechanism for RA signaling that is specific to the developing forebrain.

Protein kinase C and chemical-induced abnormal palate development

The protein kinase C (PKC) family of proteins mediates the action of growth factors and other ligands by activating a network of transcription factors that bind to TRE sequences in the promoters of many genes that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix synthesis, apoptosis and others in a cell type-, isozymeand context-specific manner. The critical role of PKC in embryonic development is indicated by early death of embryos in which one or more of these isozymes are inactivated. Our studies together with others show that palatal PKC signalling is functional and may be essential for normal palate development. Although single gene knockouts have failed to exhibit the cleft palate (CP) phenotype, owing to compensation by other kinases, many chemicals including the mycotoxin, secalonic acid D, disrupt palatal PKC signalling leading to altered palatal mesenchymal gene expression. The potential relevance of such effects to chemical-induced CP is discussed.

Role of Nuclear Receptors in Central Nervous System Development and Associated Diseases

The nuclear hormone receptor (NHR) superfamily is composed of a wide range of receptors involved in a myriad of important biological processes, including development, growth, metabolism, and maintenance. Regulation of such wide variety of functions requires a complex system of gene regulation that includes interaction with transcription factors, chromatin-modifying complex, and the proper recognition of ligands. NHRs are able to coordinate the expression of genes in numerous pathways simultaneously. This review focuses on the role of nuclear receptors in the central nervous system and, in particular, their role in regulating the proper development and function of the brain and the eye. In addition, the review highlights the impact of mutations in NHRs on a spectrum of human diseases from autism to retinal degeneration.

ATRA transcriptionally induces nSMase2 through CBP/p300-mediated histone acetylation

Neutral sphingomyelinase-2 (nSMase2) is a key ceramide-producing enzyme in cellular stress responses. While many posttranslational regulators of nSMase2 are known, emerging evidence suggests a more protracted regulation of nSMase2 at the transcriptional level. Previously, we reported that nSMase2 is induced by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in MCF7 cells and implicated nSMase2 in ATRA-induced growth arrest. Here, we further investigated how ATRA regulates nSMase2. We find that ATRA regulates nSMase2 transcriptionally through the retinoic acid receptor-α, but this is independent of previously identified transcriptional regulators of nSMase2 (Sp1, Sp3, Runx2) and is not through increased promoter activity. Epigenetically, the nSMase2 gene is not repressively methylated in MCF7 cells. However, inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) with trichostatin A (TSA) induced nSMase2 comparably to ATRA; furthermore, combined ATRA and TSA treatment was not additive, suggesting ATRA regulates nSMase2 through direct modulation of histone acetylation. Confirming this, the histone acetyltransferases CREB-binding protein and p300 were required for ATRA induction of nSMase2. Finally, use of class-specific HDAC inhibitors suggested that HDAC4 and/or HDAC5 are negative regulators of nSMase2 expression. Collectively, these results identify a novel pathway of nSMase2 regulation and suggest that physiological or pharmacological modulation of histone acetylation can directly affect nSMase2 levels.

Moving Beyond the Androgen Receptor (AR): Targeting AR-Interacting Proteins to Treat Prostate Cancer

Medical or surgical castration serves as the backbone of systemic therapy for advanced and metastatic prostate cancer, taking advantage of the importance of androgen signaling in this disease. Unfortunately, resistance to castration emerges almost universally. Despite the development and approval of new and more potent androgen synthesis inhibitors and androgen receptor (AR) antagonists, prostate cancers continue to develop resistance to these therapeutics, while often maintaining their dependence on the AR signaling axis. This highlights the need for innovative therapeutic approaches that aim to continue disrupting AR downstream signaling but are orthogonal to directly targeting the AR itself. In this review, we discuss the preclinical research that has been done, as well as clinical trials for prostate cancer, on inhibiting several important families of AR-interacting proteins, including chaperones (such as heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and FKBP52), pioneer factors (including forkhead box protein A1 (FOXA1) and GATA-2), and AR transcriptional coregulators such as the p160 steroid receptor coactivators (SRCs) SRC-1, SRC-2, SRC-3, as well as lysine deacetylases (KDACs) and lysine acetyltransferases (KATs). Researching the effect of-and developing new therapeutic agents that target-the AR signaling axis is critical to advancing our understanding of prostate cancer biology, to continue to improve treatments for prostate cancer and for overcoming castration resistance.

Nemo-like kinase as a negative regulator of nuclear receptor Nurr1 gene transcription in prostate cancer

Background

Nurr1, a member of the orphan receptor family, plays an important role in several types of cancer. Our previous work demonstrated that increased expression of Nurr1 plays a significant role in the initiation and progression of prostate cancer (PCa), though the mechanisms for regulation of Nurr1 expression remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that Nemo-like kinase (NLK) is a key regulator of Nurr1 expression in PCa.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were used to evaluate levels of NLK and Nurr1 in prostatic tissues and cell lines. The effects of overexpression or knockdown of Nurr1 were evaluated in PCa cells through use of PCR, Western blots and promoter reporter assays. The role of Nurr1 promoter cis element was studied by creation of two mutant Nurr1 promoter luciferase constructs, one with a mutated NF-κB binding site and one with a mutated CREB binding site. In addition, three specific inhibitors were used to investigate the roles of these proteins in transcriptional activation of Nurr1, including BAY 11–7082 (NF-κB inhibitor), KG-501 (CREB inhibitor) and ICG-001 (CREB binding protein, CBP, inhibitor). The function of CBP in NLK-mediated regulation of Nurr1 expression was investigated using immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays (ChIPs).

Results

NLK expression was inversely correlated with Nurr1 expression in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of NLK suppressed Nurr1 promoter activity, leading to downregulation of Nurr1 expression. In contrast, knockdown of NLK demonstrated opposite results, leading to upregulation of Nurr1. When compared with the wild-type Nurr1 promoter, mutation of NF-κB- and CREB-binding sites of the Nurr1 promoter region significantly reduced the upregulation of Nurr1 induced by knockdown of NLK in LNCaP cells; treatment with inhibitors of CREB, CBP and NF-κB led to similar results. We also found that NLK directly interacts with CBP, that knockdown of NLK significantly increases the recruitment of CBP to both NF-κB- and CREB-binding sites, and that regulation of NLK on Nurr1 expression is abrogated by knockdown of CBP.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that NLK inhibits transcriptional activation of Nurr1 gene by impeding CBP’s role as a co-activator of NF-κB and CREB in prostate cancer.

Glucocorticoid receptor and nuclear factor kappa-b affect three-dimensional chromatin organization

Background

The impact of signal-dependent transcription factors, such as glucocorticoid receptor and nuclear factor kappa-b, on the three-dimensional organization of chromatin remains a topic of discussion. The possible scenarios range from remodeling of higher order chromatin architecture by activated transcription factors to recruitment of activated transcription factors to pre-established long-range interactions.

Results

Using circular chromosome conformation capture coupled with next generation sequencing and high-resolution chromatin interaction analysis by paired-end tag sequencing of P300, we observed agonist-induced changes in long-range chromatin interactions, and uncovered interconnected enhancer–enhancer hubs spanning up to one megabase. The vast majority of activated glucocorticoid receptor and nuclear factor kappa-b appeared to join pre-existing P300 enhancer hubs without affecting the chromatin conformation. In contrast, binding of the activated transcription factors to loci with their consensus response elements led to the increased formation of an active epigenetic state of enhancers and a significant increase in long-range interactions within pre-existing enhancer networks. De novo enhancers or ligand-responsive enhancer hubs preferentially interacted with ligand-induced genes.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that, at a subset of genomic loci, ligand-mediated induction leads to active enhancer formation and an increase in long-range interactions, facilitating efficient regulation of target genes. Therefore, our data suggest an active role of signal-dependent transcription factors in chromatin and long-range interaction remodeling.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13059-015-0832-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Novel role for PINX1 as a coregulator of nuclear hormone receptors

Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) has an established role in breast cancer biology. Transcriptional activation by ERα is a multistep process influenced by coactivator and corepressor proteins. This work shows that Pin2 interacting protein 1 (PINX1) interacts with the N-terminal domain of ERα and functions as a corepressor of ERα. Furthermore, it represses both AF-1 and AF-2 transcriptional activities. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays verified that the interaction between ERα and PINX1 occurs on E2 regulated promoters and enhanced expression of PINX1 deregulates the expression of a number of genes that have a role in cell growth and proliferation in breast cancer. PINX1 overexpression decreases estrogen mediated proliferation of breast cancer cell lines, while its depletion shows the opposite effect. Taken together, these data show a novel molecular mechanism for PINX1 as an attenuator of estrogen receptor activity in breast cancer cell lines, furthering its role as a tumor suppressor gene in breast cancer.

Estrogen receptor alpha inhibits RLR-mediated immune response via ubiquitinating TRAF3

RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) function as key sentinel receptor for invading viruses. Moderate activation of RLR signaling is critical for efficient viral clearance without harmful immunopathology. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors and is involved in the regulation of innate immune responses. However, the effects of ERα on RLR signaling and the molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we identify ERα as a negative regulator of RLR-triggered antiviral immune responses. The expression level of ERα is upregulated following RLR activation in macrophages. In the absence of ligand, VSV infection phosphorylates ERα at serine 167. ERα inhibits VSV-induced IRF3 activation. We further demonstrate that ERα directly interacts with TRAF3 and promotes K48-linked proteasomal degradation of TRAF3. Consistently, ERα inhibits VSV-triggered IFN-β production in macrophages in a ligand independent mechanism. Thus, ERα functions as a negative feedback regulator of RLR-triggered antiviral immune responses. These findings also provide the insights that separate the immune effects of ERα from its ligand-induced hormonal effects.

Polymorphisms of homologous recombination RAD51, RAD51B, XRCC2, and XRCC3 genes and the risk of prostate cancer

Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes may induce individual variations in DNA repair capacity, which may in turn contribute to the risk of cancer developing. Homologous recombination repair (HRR) plays a critical role in maintaining chromosomal integrity and protecting against carcinogenic factors. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between prostate cancer risk and the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes involved in HRR, that is, RAD51 (rs1801320 and rs1801321), RAD51B (rs10483813 and rs3784099), XRCC2 (rs3218536), and XRCC3 (rs861539). Polymorphisms were analyzed by PCR-RFLP and Real-Time PCR in 101 patients with prostate adenocarcinoma and 216 age- and sex-matched controls. A significant relationship was detected between the RAD51 gene rs1801320 polymorphism and increased prostate cancer risk. Our results indicate that the RAD51 gene rs1801320 polymorphism may contribute to prostate cancer susceptibility in Poland.

MDC1 Enhances Estrogen Receptor-mediated Transactivation and Contributes to Breast Cancer Suppression

Estrogen receptor α (ERα) is a key transcriptional factor in the proliferation and differentiation in mammary epithelia and has been determined to be an important predictor of breast cancer prognosis and therapeutic target. Meanwhile, diverse transcriptional co-regulators of ERα play crucial and complicated roles in breast cancer progression. Mediator of DNA damage checkpoint 1 (MDC1) has been identified as a critical upstream mediator in the cellular response to DNA damage, however, some non-DNA damage responsive functions of MDC1 haven't been fully defined. In this study, we have identified MDC1 as a co-activator of ERα in breast cancer cells and demonstrated that MDC1 associates with ERα. MDC1 was also recruited to estrogen response element (ERE) of ERα target gene. Knockdown of MDC1 reduced the transcription of the endogenous ERα target genes, including p21. MDC1 depletion led to the promotion of breast cancer progression, and the expression of MDC1 is lower in breast cancer. Taken together, these results suggested that MDC1 was involved in the enhancement of ERα-mediated transactivation in breast cancer cells. This positive regulation by MDC1 might contribute to the suppression of breast cancer progression by acting as a barrier of positive to negative ERα function transformation.

The E3 ligase synoviolin controls body weight and mitochondrial biogenesis through negative regulation of PGC-1β

Obesity is a major global public health problem, and understanding its pathogenesis is critical for identifying a cure. In this study, a gene knockout strategy was used in post-neonatal mice to delete synoviolin (Syvn)1/Hrd1/Der3, an ER-resident E3 ubiquitin ligase with known roles in homeostasis maintenance. Syvn1 deficiency resulted in weight loss and lower accumulation of white adipose tissue in otherwise wild-type animals as well as in genetically obese (ob/ob and db/db) and adipose tissue-specific knockout mice as compared to control animals. SYVN1 interacted with and ubiquitinated the thermogenic coactivator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator (PGC)-1β, and Syvn1 mutants showed upregulation of PGC-1β target genes and increase in mitochondrion number, respiration, and basal energy expenditure in adipose tissue relative to control animals. Moreover, the selective SYVN1 inhibitor LS-102 abolished the negative regulation of PGC-1β by SYVN1 and prevented weight gain in mice. Thus, SYVN1 is a novel post-translational regulator of PGC-1β and a potential therapeutic target in obesity treatment.

Vascular importance of the miR-212/132 cluster

RATIONALE

Many processes in endothelial cells including angiogenic responses are regulated by microRNAs. However, there is limited information available about their complex cross-talk in regulating certain endothelial functions.

AIM

The objective of this study is to identify endothelial functions of the pro-hypertrophic miR-212/132 cluster and its cross-talk with other microRNAs during development and disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We here show that anti-angiogenic stimulation by transforming growth factor-beta activates the microRNA-212/132 cluster by derepression of their transcriptional co-activator cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB)-binding protein (CBP) which is a novel target of a previously identified pro-angiogenic miRNA miR-30a-3p in endothelial cells. Surprisingly, despite having the same seed-sequence, miR-212 and miR-132 exerted differential effects on endothelial transcriptome regulation and cellular functions with stronger endothelial inhibitory effects caused by miR-212. These differences could be attributed to additional auxiliary binding of miR-212 to its targets. In vivo, deletion of the miR-212/132 cluster increased endothelial vasodilatory function, improved angiogenic responses during postnatal development and in adult mice.

CONCLUSION

Our results identify (i) a novel miRNA-cross-talk involving miR-30a-3p and miR-212, which led to suppression of important endothelial genes such as GAB1 and SIRT1 finally culminating in impaired endothelial function; and (ii) microRNAs may have different biological roles despite having the same seed sequence.

The active enhancer network operated by liganded RXR supports angiogenic activity in macrophages

Here, Nagy and colleagues use genome-wide approaches to uncover the activity of RXR, an enigmatic member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. RXR signaling is predicted to have a major impact in macrophages, but neither the biological consequence nor the genomic basis of its ligand activation is known. Integrating RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, GRO-seq, and 3C-seq, the authors unravel the mechanism of RXR-induced transcriptional events in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages. Importantly, this study uncovers a novel biological activity—angiogenesis—that is promoted by the receptor.

RXR signaling is predicted to have a major impact in macrophages, but neither the biological consequence nor the genomic basis of its ligand activation is known. Comprehensive genome-wide studies were carried out to map liganded RXR-mediated transcriptional changes, active binding sites, and cistromic interactions in the context of the macrophage genome architecture. The macrophage RXR cistrome has 5200 genomic binding sites, which are not impacted by ligand. Active enhancers are characterized by PU.1 binding, an increase of enhancer RNA, and P300 recruitment. Using these features, 387 liganded RXR-bound enhancers were linked to 226 genes, which predominantly reside in CTCF/cohesin-limited functional domains. These findings were molecularly validated using chromosome conformation capture (3C) and 3C combined with sequencing (3C-seq), and we show that selected long-range enhancers communicate with promoters via stable or RXR-induced loops and that some of the enhancers interact with each other, forming an interchromosomal network. A set of angiogenic genes, including Vegfa, has liganded RXR-controlled enhancers and provides the macrophage with a novel inducible program.

Active repression by RARγ signaling is required for vertebrate axial elongation

Retinoic acid receptor gamma 2 (RARγ2) is the major RAR isoform expressed throughout the caudal axial progenitor domain in vertebrates. During a microarray screen to identify RAR targets, we identified a subset of genes that pattern caudal structures or promote axial elongation and are upregulated by increased RAR-mediated repression. Previous studies have suggested that RAR is present in the caudal domain, but is quiescent until its activation in late stage embryos terminates axial elongation. By contrast, we show here that RARγ2 is engaged in all stages of axial elongation, not solely as a terminator of axial growth. In the absence of RA, RARγ2 represses transcriptional activity in vivo and maintains the pool of caudal progenitor cells and presomitic mesoderm. In the presence of RA, RARγ2 serves as an activator, facilitating somite differentiation. Treatment with an RARγ-selective inverse agonist (NRX205099) or overexpression of dominant-negative RARγ increases the expression of posterior Hox genes and that of marker genes for presomitic mesoderm and the chordoneural hinge. Conversely, when RAR-mediated repression is reduced by overexpressing a dominant-negative co-repressor (c-SMRT), a constitutively active RAR (VP16-RARγ2), or by treatment with an RARγ-selective agonist (NRX204647), expression of caudal genes is diminished and extension of the body axis is prematurely terminated. Hence, gene repression mediated by the unliganded RARγ2-co-repressor complex constitutes a novel mechanism to regulate and facilitate the correct expression levels and spatial restriction of key genes that maintain the caudal progenitor pool during axial elongation in Xenopus embryos.