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Zhu B, Wang W, Gu Y, Wei C, Wang Z, Li Q. Genotype-phenotype correlations and treatment innovation of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1): Current understanding and perspective. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024:00029330-990000000-01121. [PMID: 38915235 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Beiyao Zhu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yihui Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Chengjiang Wei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhichao Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
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Arumugam M, Tovar EA, Essenburg CJ, Dischinger PS, Beddows I, Wolfrum E, Madaj ZB, Turner L, Feenstra K, Gallik KL, Cohen L, Nichols M, Sheridan RTC, Esquibel CR, Mouneimne G, Graveel CR, Steensma MR. Nf1 deficiency modulates the stromal environment in the pretumorigenic rat mammary gland. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1375441. [PMID: 38799507 PMCID: PMC11116614 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1375441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Neurofibromin, coded by the NF1 tumor suppressor gene, is the main negative regulator of the RAS pathway and is frequently mutated in various cancers. Women with Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF1)-a tumor predisposition syndrome caused by a germline NF1 mutation-have an increased risk of developing aggressive breast cancer with poorer prognosis. The mechanism by which NF1 mutations lead to breast cancer tumorigenesis is not well understood. Therefore, the objective of this work was to identify stromal alterations before tumor formation that result in the increased risk and poorer outcome seen among NF1 patients with breast cancer. Approach To accurately model the germline monoallelic NF1 mutations in NF1 patients, we utilized an Nf1-deficient rat model with accelerated mammary development before presenting with highly penetrant breast cancer. Results We identified increased collagen content in Nf1-deficient rat mammary glands before tumor formation that correlated with age of tumor onset. Additionally, gene expression analysis revealed that Nf1-deficient mature adipocytes in the rat mammary gland have increased collagen expression and shifted to a fibroblast and preadipocyte expression profile. This alteration in lineage commitment was also observed with in vitro differentiation, however, flow cytometry analysis did not show a change in mammary adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell abundance. Conclusion Collectively, this study uncovered the previously undescribed role of Nf1 in mammary collagen deposition and regulating adipocyte differentiation. In addition to unraveling the mechanism of tumor formation, further investigation of adipocytes and collagen modifications in preneoplastic mammary glands will create a foundation for developing early detection strategies of breast cancer among NF1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menusha Arumugam
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Tovar
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Curt J. Essenburg
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Patrick S. Dischinger
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Ian Beddows
- Biostatistics ad Bioinformatics Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Emily Wolfrum
- Biostatistics ad Bioinformatics Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Zach B. Madaj
- Biostatistics ad Bioinformatics Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Lisa Turner
- Pathology and Biorepository Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Kristin Feenstra
- Pathology and Biorepository Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Kristin L. Gallik
- Optical Imaging Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Lorna Cohen
- Optical Imaging Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Madison Nichols
- Flow Cytometry Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | | | - Corinne R. Esquibel
- Optical Imaging Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Ghassan Mouneimne
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Carrie R. Graveel
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Matthew R. Steensma
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
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Sarin KY, Bradshaw M, O'Mara C, Shahryari J, Kincaid J, Kempers S, Tu JH, Dhawan S, DuBois J, Wilson D, Horwath P, de Souza MP, Powala C, Kochendoerfer GG, Plotkin SR, Webster GF, Le LQ. Effect of NFX-179 MEK inhibitor on cutaneous neurofibromas in persons with neurofibromatosis type 1. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk4946. [PMID: 38691597 PMCID: PMC11062565 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk4946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
This phase 2a trial investigated the efficacy of NFX-179 Topical Gel, a metabolically labile MEK inhibitor, in the treatment of cutaneous neurofibromas (cNFs) in neurofibromatosis type 1. Forty-eight participants were randomized to four treatment arms: NFX-179 Topical Gel 0.05%, 0.15%, and 0.5% or vehicle applied once daily to five target cNFs for 28 days. Treatment with NFX-179 Topical Gel resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in p-ERK levels in cNFs at day 28, with a 47% decrease in the 0.5% NFX-179 group compared to the vehicle (P = 0.0001). No local or systemic toxicities were observed during the treatment period, and systemic concentrations of NFX-179 remained below 1 ng/ml. In addition, 20% of cNFs treated with 0.5% NFX-179 Topical Gel showed a ≥50% reduction in volume compared to 6% in the vehicle group by ruler measurement with calculated volume (P = 0.021). Thus, NFX-179 Topical Gel demonstrated significant inhibition of MEK in cNF with excellent safety and potential therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Y. Sarin
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John H. Tu
- Skin Search of Rochester, Inc., Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sunil Dhawan
- Center for Dermatology Clinical Research Inc., Fremont, CA, USA
| | | | - David Wilson
- The Education and Research Foundation Inc., Lynchburg, VA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lu Q. Le
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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Rodríguez-Martín M, Báez-Flores J, Ribes V, Isidoro-García M, Lacal J, Prieto-Matos P. Non-Mammalian Models for Understanding Neurological Defects in RASopathies. Biomedicines 2024; 12:841. [PMID: 38672195 PMCID: PMC11048513 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies, a group of neurodevelopmental congenital disorders stemming from mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway, present a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of complex neurological disorders. Afflicting approximately one in a thousand newborns, RASopathies manifest as abnormalities across multiple organ systems, with a pronounced impact on the central and peripheral nervous system. In the pursuit of understanding RASopathies' neurobiology and establishing phenotype-genotype relationships, in vivo non-mammalian models have emerged as indispensable tools. Species such as Danio rerio, Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, Xenopus species and Gallus gallus embryos have proven to be invaluable in shedding light on the intricate pathways implicated in RASopathies. Despite some inherent weaknesses, these genetic models offer distinct advantages over traditional rodent models, providing a holistic perspective on complex genetics, multi-organ involvement, and the interplay among various pathway components, offering insights into the pathophysiological aspects of mutations-driven symptoms. This review underscores the value of investigating the genetic basis of RASopathies for unraveling the underlying mechanisms contributing to broader neurological complexities. It also emphasizes the pivotal role of non-mammalian models in serving as a crucial preliminary step for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rodríguez-Martín
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Juan Báez-Flores
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Vanessa Ribes
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France;
| | - María Isidoro-García
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jesus Lacal
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Pablo Prieto-Matos
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostics Science, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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Tian Z, Du Z, Bai G, Gong Q, You Y, Xu G, Liu J, Xiao M, Wang Y, He Y. Schwann cell derived pleiotrophin stimulates fibroblast for proliferation and excessive collagen deposition in plexiform neurofibroma. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:627-640. [PMID: 38302728 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00727-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 associated plexiform neurofibroma (pNF) is characterized by abundant fibroblasts and dense collagen, yet the intricate interactions between tumor-origin cells (Schwann cells) and neurofibroma-associated fibroblasts (NFAFs) remain elusive. Employing single-cell RNA sequencing on human pNF samples, we generated a comprehensive transcriptomics dataset and conducted cell-cell communication analysis to unravel the molecular dynamics between Schwann cells and NFAFs. Our focus centered on the pleiotrophin (PTN)/nucleolin (NCL) axis as a pivotal ligand-receptor pair orchestrating this interaction. Validation of PTN involvement was affirmed through coculture models and recombinant protein experiments. Functional and mechanistic investigations, employing assays such as CCK8, EdU, Western Blot, ELISA, Hydroxyproline Assay, and Human phospho-kinase array, provided critical insights. We employed siRNA or inhibitors to intercept the PTN/NCL/proline-rich Akt substrate of 40 kDa (PRAS40) axis, validating the associated molecular mechanism. Our analysis highlighted a subset of Schwann cells closely linked to collagen deposition, underscoring their significance in pNF development. The PTN/NCL axis emerged as a key mediator of the Schwann cell-NFAF interaction. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that elevated PTN levels enhanced NFAF proliferation and collagen synthesis, either independently or synergistically with TGF-β1 in vitro. Activation of the downstream molecule PRAS40 was noted in NFAFs upon PTN treatment. Crucially, by targeting NCL and PRAS40, we successfully reversed collagen synthesis within NFAFs. In conclusion, our findings unveil the pivotal role of the PTN/NCL/PRAS40 axis in driving pNF development by promoting NFAFs proliferation and function. Targeting this pathway emerges as a potential therapeutic strategy for pNF. This study contributes novel insights into the molecular mechanisms governing pNF pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuowei Tian
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Fengcheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong Du
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo Bai
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiyu Gong
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Basic Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanhe You
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Guisong Xu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jialiang Liu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Xiao
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Fengcheng Hospital, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yue He
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Zhu B, Zheng T, Wang W, Gu Y, Wei C, Li Q, Wang Z. Genotype-phenotype correlations of neurofibromatosis type 1: a cross-sectional study from a large Chinese cohort. J Neurol 2024; 271:1893-1900. [PMID: 38095723 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12127-w] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a highly heterogeneous autosomal genetic disorder characterized by a broad spectrum of clinical and molecular manifestations. The correlations between genotype and phenotype in NF1 remain elusive. This study aimed to elucidate genotype-phenotype associations in a large Chinese cohort of NF1 patients. METHODS We included NF1 patients from our center who underwent genetic testing for NF1 variants and systemic examination. Genotype-phenotype correlation analyses were performed, focusing on variation types and involved neurofibromin domains. RESULTS A total of 195 patients were enrolled, comprising 105 males and 90 females, with a median age of 18 years. Truncating variants, single amino acid variations, and splicing variants accounted for 139/195 (71.3%), 23/195 (11.8%), and 33/195 (16.9%), respectively. Patients with splicing variants exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of spinal plexiform neurofibromas (spinal PNF) than those with truncating variants (76.4% vs. 51.8%; p = 0.022). Variations affecting the PKC domain were associated with higher rates of cutaneous neurofibromas (CNF) (100% vs. 64.9%, p < 0.001), Lisch nodules (100% vs. 61.2%, p < 0.001), plexiform neurofibromas (PNF) (100% vs. 95.7%, p = 0.009), and psychiatric disorders (11.8% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.042). Patients with mutations in the CSRD had an elevated risk of secondary primary malignancies (11.6% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.015). GRD involvement might enhance the risk of Lisch nodules (76.9% vs. 53.7%, p = 0.044). Variations in the Sec14-PH domain were correlated with a higher rate of CNF (76.8% vs. 58.6%, p = 0.014). Additionally, we found that the p.R1748* variants carry a high risk of malignancy. CONCLUSION Our study suggested some novel genotype-phenotype correlations within a Chinese cohort, providing innovative insights into this complex field that may contribute to genetic counseling, risk stratification, and clinical management for the NF1 population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beiyao Zhu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Tingting Zheng
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yihui Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chengjiang Wei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Zhichao Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Center and Laboratory for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Research, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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Williams KB, Larsson AT, Keller BJ, Chaney KE, Williams RL, Bhunia MM, Draper GM, Jubenville TA, Rathe SK, Moertel CL, Ratner N, Largaespada DA. Pharmacogenomic synthetic lethal screens reveal hidden vulnerabilities and new therapeutic approaches for treatment of NF1-associated tumors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.25.585959. [PMID: 38585724 PMCID: PMC10996510 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.25.585959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a common cancer predisposition syndrome, caused by heterozygous loss of function mutations in the tumor suppressor gene NF1. Individuals with NF1 develop benign tumors of the peripheral nervous system (neurofibromas), originating from the Schwann cell linage after somatic loss of the wild type NF1 allele, some of which progress further to malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). There is only one FDA approved targeted therapy for symptomatic plexiform neurofibromas and none approved for MPNST. The genetic basis of NF1 syndrome makes associated tumors ideal for using synthetic drug sensitivity approaches to uncover therapeutic vulnerabilities. We developed a drug discovery pipeline to identify therapeutics for NF1-related tumors using isogeneic pairs of NF1-proficient and deficient immortalized human Schwann cells. We utilized these in a large-scale high throughput screen (HTS) for drugs that preferentially kill NF1-deficient cells, through which we identified 23 compounds capable of killing NF1-deficient Schwann cells with selectivity. Multiple hits from this screen clustered into classes defined by method of action. Four clinically interesting drugs from these classes were tested in vivo using both a genetically engineered mouse model of high-grade peripheral nerve sheath tumors and human MPNST xenografts. All drugs tested showed single agent efficacy in these models as well as significant synergy when used in combination with the MEK inhibitor selumetinib. This HTS platform yielded novel therapeutically relevant compounds for the treatment of NF1-associated tumors and can serve as a tool to rapidly evaluate new compounds and combinations in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle B Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Alex T Larsson
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Bryant J Keller
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Katherine E Chaney
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Rory L Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Minu M Bhunia
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Garrett M Draper
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Tyler A Jubenville
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Sue K Rathe
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Christopher L Moertel
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - David A Largaespada
- Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
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Lui K, Huang Y, Sheikh MS, Cheung KK, Tam WY, Sun KT, Cheng KM, Ng WWM, Loh AWK. The oncogenic potential of Rab-like protein 1A (RBEL1A) GTPase: The first review of RBEL1A research with future research directions and challenges. J Cancer 2023; 14:3214-3226. [PMID: 37928422 PMCID: PMC10622986 DOI: 10.7150/jca.84267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on Rab-like protein 1A (RBEL1A) in the past two decades highlighted the oncogenic properties of this gene. Despite the emerging evidence, its importance in cancer biology was underrated. This is the first RBEL1A critical review covering its discovery, biochemistry, physiological functions, and clinical insights. RBEL1A expression at the appropriate levels appears essential in normal cells and tissues to maintain chromosomal stability; however, its overexpression is linked to tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the upstream and downstream targets of the RBEL1A signaling pathways will be discussed. Mechanistically, RBEL1A promotes cell proliferation signals by enhancing the Erk1/2, Akt, c-Myc, and CDK pathways while blunting the apoptotic signals via inhibitions on p53, Rb, and caspase pathways. More importantly, this review covers the clinical relevance of RBEL1A in the cancer field, such as drug resistance and poor overall survival rate. Also, this review points out the bottle-necks of the RBEL1A research and its future research directions. It is becoming clear that RBEL1A could potentially serve as a valuable target of anticancer therapy. Genetic and pharmacological researches are expected to facilitate the identification and development of RBEL1A inhibitors as cancer therapeutics in the future, which could undoubtedly improve the management of human malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Lui
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - M. Saeed Sheikh
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Kwok-Kuen Cheung
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Wing Yip Tam
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Keng-Ting Sun
- Division of Medical Sciences & Graduate Entry Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ka Ming Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | | | - Anthony Wai-Keung Loh
- Division of Science, Engineering and Health Studies (SEHS), College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Weiss JB, Raber J. Inhibition of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (Alk) as Therapeutic Target to Improve Brain Function in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (Nf1). Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4579. [PMID: 37760547 PMCID: PMC10526845 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (Nf1) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and tumor syndrome caused by loss of function mutations in the neurofibromin gene (Nf1) and is estimated to affect 100,000 people in the US. Behavioral alterations and cognitive deficits have been found in 50-70% of children with Nf1 and include specific problems with attention, visual perception, language, learning, attention, and executive function. These behavioral alterations and cognitive deficits are observed in the absence of tumors or macroscopic structural abnormalities in the central nervous system. No effective treatments for the behavioral and cognitive disabilities of Nf1 exist. Inhibition of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (Alk), a kinase which is negatively regulated by neurofibromin, allows for testing the hypothesis that this inhibition may be therapeutically beneficial in Nf1. In this review, we discuss this area of research and directions for the development of alternative therapeutic strategies to inhibit Alk. Even if the incidence of adverse reactions of currently available Alk inhibitors was reduced to half the dose, we anticipate that a long-term treatment would pose challenges for efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Therefore, future efforts are warranted to investigate alternative, potentially less toxic and more specific strategies to inhibit Alk function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B. Weiss
- Cardiovascular Institute and Warren Alpert School of Medicine at Brown University, Providence, RI 02840, USA
| | - Jacob Raber
- Departments of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurology, and Radiation Medicine, Division of Neuroscience, ONPRC, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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10
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Mukit FA, Cape HT, Huq SS, Bohn S. An Isolated Case of Unilateral Macro-Ophthalmia With Resultant Anisometropic Amblyopia in Neurofibromatosis 1. Cureus 2023; 15:e44679. [PMID: 37809258 PMCID: PMC10550781 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The most common causes of vision loss in neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) patients are sequelae from tumors such as optic pathway glioma, plexiform neurofibroma, or secondary glaucoma. Here we report the case of a six-year-old female with anisometropic amblyopia resulting from an isolated unilateral macro-ophthalmia with a known history of NF1. Our patient progressed to light perception vision in the left eye due to a non-neoplastic cause associated with NF1 with at least two years of documented unilateral macro-ophthalmia without any ophthalmology referral or evaluation. This case aims to highlight the importance of early and deliberate ophthalmologic examination in all patients with neurofibromatosis 1 to assess for appropriate visual development and early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabliha A Mukit
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Hays T Cape
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Suhaiba S Huq
- Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Shiva Bohn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
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11
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Rhodes SD, McCormick F, Cagan RL, Bakker A, Staedtke V, Ly I, Steensma MR, Lee SY, Romo CG, Blakeley JO, Sarin KY. RAS Signaling Gone Awry in the Skin: The Complex Role of RAS in Cutaneous Neurofibroma Pathogenesis, Emerging Biological Insights. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:1358-1368. [PMID: 37245145 PMCID: PMC10409534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous neurofibromas (cNFs) are the most common tumor in people with the rasopathy neurofibromatosis type 1. They number in hundreds or even thousands throughout the body, and currently, there are no effective interventions to prevent or treat these skin tumors. To facilitate the identification of novel and effective therapies, essential studies including a more refined understanding of cNF biology and the role of RAS signaling and downstream effector pathways responsible for cNF initiation, growth, and maintenance are needed. This review highlights the current state of knowledge of RAS signaling in cNF pathogenesis and therapeutic development for cNF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Rhodes
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Frank McCormick
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA; Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Ross L Cagan
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | | | - Verena Staedtke
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ina Ly
- Stephen E. and Catherine Pappas Center for Neuro-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew R Steensma
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Sang Y Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carlos G Romo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kavita Y Sarin
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
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12
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Jiang C, McKay RM, Lee SY, Romo CG, Blakeley JO, Haniffa M, Serra E, Steensma MR, Largaespada D, Le LQ. Cutaneous Neurofibroma Heterogeneity: Factors that Influence Tumor Burden in Neurofibromatosis Type 1. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:1369-1377. [PMID: 37318402 PMCID: PMC11173230 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.12.027] [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: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 is one of the most common genetic disorders of the nervous system and predisposes patients to develop benign and malignant tumors. Cutaneous neurofibromas (cNFs) are NF1-associated benign tumors that affect nearly 100% of patients with NF1. cNFs dramatically reduce patients' QOL owing to their unaesthetic appearance, physical discomfort, and corresponding psychological burden. There is currently no effective drug therapy option, and treatment is restricted to surgical removal. One of the greatest hurdles for cNF management is the variability of clinical expressivity in NF1, resulting in intrapatient and interpatient cNF tumor burden heterogeneity, that is, the variability in the presentation and evolution of these tumors. There is growing evidence that a wide array of factors are involved in the regulation of cNF heterogeneity. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this heterogeneity of cNF at the molecular, cellular, and environmental levels can facilitate the development of innovative and personalized treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Renée M McKay
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sang Y Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carlos G Romo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Muzlifah Haniffa
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom; NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Center Dermatology, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Eduard Serra
- Hereditary Cancer Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Matthew R Steensma
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - David Largaespada
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lu Q Le
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Comprehensive Neurofibromatosis Clinic, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; O'Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
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13
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Katanaev VL. Humanization for neurological disease modeling: A roadmap to increase the potential of Drosophila model systems. Animal Model Exp Med 2023; 6:230-236. [PMID: 37323110 PMCID: PMC10272901 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12322] [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: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroscience and neurology research is dominated by experimentation with rodents. Around 75% of neurology disease-associated genes have orthologs in Drosophila melanogaster, the fruit fly amenable to complex neurological and behavioral investigations. However, non-vertebrate models including Drosophila have so far been unable to significantly replace mice and rats in this field of studies. One reason for this situation is the predominance of gene overexpression (and gene loss-of-function) methodologies used when establishing a Drosophila model of a given neurological disease, a strategy that does not recapitulate accurately enough the genetic disease conditions. I argue here the need for a systematic humanization approach, whereby the Drosophila orthologs of human disease genes are replaced with the human sequences. This approach will identify the list of diseases and the underlying genes that can be adequately modeled in the fruit fly. I discuss the neurological disease genes to which this systematic humanization approach should be applied and provide an example of such an application, and consider its importance for subsequent disease modeling and drug discovery in Drosophila. I argue that this paradigm will not only advance our understanding of the molecular etiology of a number of neurological disorders, but will also gradually enable researchers to reduce experimentation using rodent models of multiple neurological diseases and eventually replace these models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir L. Katanaev
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
- HumanaFly Facility, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
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14
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Zhang L, Jiang L, Zeng L, Jin Z, Dong X, Zhang Y, Chen L, Shu Y, Liu Y, Huang Y. The oncogenic role of NF1 in gallbladder cancer through regulation of YAP1 stability by direct interaction with YAP1. J Transl Med 2023; 21:306. [PMID: 37147639 PMCID: PMC10163693 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04157-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the most prevalent and invasive biliary tract malignancy. As a GTPase-activating protein, Neurofibromin 1 (NF1) is a tumor suppressor that negatively regulates the RAS signaling pathway, and its abnormality leads to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) disease. However, the role of NF1 playing in GBC and the underlying molecular mechanism has not been defined yet. METHODS A combination of NOZ and EH-GB1 cell lines as well as nude mice, were utilized in this study. mRNA expression and protein levels of NF1 and YAP1 were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot (WB), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to explore the biological effects of NF1 in NOZ and EH-GB1 cells via siRNA or lv-shRNA mediated knockdown. Direct interaction between NF1 and YAP1 was detected by confocal microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and further confirmed by GST pull-down assay and isothermal titration calorimetry assay (ITC). The stability of proteins was measured by western blot (WB) in the presence of cycloheximide. RESULTS This study showed that a higher level of NF1 and YAP1 was found in GBC samples than in normal tissues and associated with worse prognoses. The NF1 knockdown impaired the proliferation and migration of NOZ in vivo and in vitro by downregulating YAP1 expression. Moreover, NF1 co-localized with YAP1 in NOZ and EH-GB1 cells, and the WW domains of YAP1 specifically recognized the PPQY motif of NF1. The structural modeling also indicated the hydrophobic interactions between YAP1 and NF1. On the other hand, YAP1 knockdown also impaired the proliferation of NOZ in vitro, phenocopying the effects of NF1 knockdown. Overexpression of YAP1 can partially rescue the impaired proliferation in NF1 stably knockdown cells. In mechanism, NF1 interacted with YAP1 and increased the stability of YAP1 by preventing ubiquitination. CONCLUSIONS Our findings discovered a novel oncogenic function of NF1 by directly interacting with YAP1 protein and stabilizing YAP1 to protect it from proteasome degradation in NOZ cells. NF1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target in GBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Zhaohui Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xuanjia Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Litian Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yijun Shu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Yingbin Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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15
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Tian Z, You Y, Xiao M, Liu J, Xu G, Ma C, Du Z, Wang Y. Inhibition of YAP Sensitizes the Selumetinib Treatment for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Related Plexiform Neurofibroma. Int J Med Sci 2023; 20:125-135. [PMID: 36619222 PMCID: PMC9812799 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.78386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Targeted therapy of Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) related plexiform neurofibroma (pNF) aiming at MEK molecule has not demonstrated a convincing result for complete disease inhibition, probably due to other signal pathways crosstalk. Our previous study revealed an increased nuclear translocation of YAP molecule in NF1 related pNF. Herein, we decided to further investigate the therapeutic relations of YAP interference during the MEK treatment against NF1 related pNF. Methods: By means of selumetinib (MEK-inhibitor), RNA-sequencing was firstly performed to identify the changes of signal pathways in pNF Schwann cells, which was probably related to YAP regulation. Nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation and western blotting were performed to show the intracellular YAP changes under selumetinib treatment. Thirdly, a series of in vitro assays were performed including flow cytometry, CCK-8, and colony/sphere formation under dual treatment of selumetinib and verteporfin (YAP-inhibitor). In addition, Chou-Talalay method was adopted to evaluate the synergistic inhibiting effects of such drug combination. Xenograft study was also used to detect the combining effects in vivo. Results: RNA-sequencing revealed that selumetinib treatment might be associated with the undesirable activation of Hippo pathway in NF1 related pNF tumor cells, which might reduce its pharmaceutic effects. Next, nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation and further studies demonstrated that selumetinib could promote the nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of YAP in vitro, which might cause the aforementioned resistance to selumetinib treatment. Additionally, when combined treatments were performed based on verteporfin and selumetinib, synergistic effects were observed on cytotoxicity of NF1 related pNF tumor cells in vitro and in vivo xenograft models. Conclusion: YAP inhibition can effectively sensitize NF1 related pNF tumor cells to selumetinib. Dual targeting of YAP and MEK might be a promising therapeutic strategy for treating NF1 related pNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuowei Tian
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Fengcheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanhe You
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Xiao
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Fengcheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jialiang Liu
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Guisong Xu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyue Ma
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong Du
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
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16
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Identification of Germinal Neurofibromin Hotspots. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082044. [PMID: 36009591 PMCID: PMC9405573 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromin is engaged in many cellular processes and when the proper protein functioning is impaired, it causes neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), one of the most common inherited neurological disorders. Recent advances in sequencing and screening of the NF1 gene have increased the number of detected variants. However, the correlation of these variants with the clinic remains poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed 4610 germinal NF1 variants annotated in ClinVar and determined on exon level the mutational spectrum and potential pathogenic regions. Then, a binomial and sliding windows test using 783 benign and 938 pathogenic NF1 variants were analyzed against functional and structural regions of neurofibromin. The distribution of synonymous, missense, and frameshift variants are statistically significant in certain regions of neurofibromin suggesting that the type of variant and its associated phenotype may depend on protein disorder. Indeed, there is a negative correlation between the pathogenic fraction prediction and the disorder data, suggesting that the higher an intrinsically disordered region is, the lower the pathogenic fraction is and vice versa. Most pathogenic variants are associated to NF1 and our analysis suggests that GRD, CSRD, TBD, and Armadillo1 domains are hotspots in neurofibromin. Knowledge about NF1 genotype–phenotype correlations can provide prognostic guidance and aid in organ-specific surveillance.
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