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Wang S, Xie Y, Liu F, Wang J, Yang Y, Wang J, Wang Y, Hang X. miR-3188 inhibits hepatitis B virus transcription by targeting Bcl-2. Arch Virol 2024; 169:88. [PMID: 38565755 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-024-05992-x] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Transcription of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is subject to dual regulation by host factors and viral proteins. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate the expression of target genes at the post-transcriptional level. Systematic investigation of miRNA expression in HBV infection and the interaction between HBV and miRNAs may deepen our understanding of the transcription mechanisms of HBV cccDNA, thereby providing opportunities for intervention. miRNA sequencing and real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) were used to analyze miRNA expression after HBV infection of cultured cells. Clinical samples were analyzed for miRNAs and HBV transcription-related indicators, using qRT-PCR, enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), and Western blot. miRNA mimics or inhibitors were used to study their effects on the HBV life cycle. The target genes of miR-3188 and their roles in HBV cccDNA transcription were also identified. The expression of 10 miRNAs, including miR-3188, which was significantly decreased after HBV infection, was measured in clinical samples from patients with chronic HBV infection. Overexpression of miR-3188 inhibited HBV transcription, whereas inhibition of miR-3188 expression promoted HBV transcription. Further investigation confirmed that miR-3188 inhibited HBV transcription by targeting Bcl-2. miR-3188 is a key miRNA that regulates HBV transcription by targeting the host protein Bcl-2. This observation provides insights into the regulation of cccDNA transcription and suggests new targets for anti-HBV treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fufei Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianrong Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yinghao Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The 988th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Jiaozuo, China
| | - Junxue Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongxiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Hang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Kusunoki H, Sakamoto T, Kobayashi N, Kohno T, Wakamatsu K, Nagata T. Structural Insights into the Interaction between the C-Terminal-Deleted BH3-like Motif Peptide of Hepatitis B Virus X Protein and Bcl-x L. Biochemistry 2024; 63:632-643. [PMID: 38377677 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) plays a crucial role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The full-length HBx protein interacts with Bcl-xL and is involved in the HBV replication and cell death processes. The three hydrophobic residues Trp120, Leu123, and Ile127 of the HBx BH3-like motif are essential for the Bcl-xL-binding. On the other hand, various lengths of C-terminal-truncated HBx mutants are frequently detected in HCC tissues, and these mutants, rather than the full-length HBx, appear to be responsible for HCC development. Notably, the region spanning residues 1-120 of HBx [HBx(1 and 120)] has been strongly associated with an increased risk of HCC development. However, the mode of interaction between HBx(1-120) and Bcl-xL remains unclear. HBx(1-120) possesses only Trp120 among the three hydrophobic residues essential for the Bcl-xL-binding. To elucidate this interaction mode, we employed a C-terminal-deleted HBx BH3-like motif peptide composed of residues 101-120. Here, we present the NMR complex structure of Bcl-xL and HBx(101-120). Our results demonstrate that HBx(101-120) binds to Bcl-xL in a weaker manner. Considering the high expression of Bcl-xL in HCC cells, this weak interaction, in conjunction with the overexpression of Bcl-xL in HCC cells, may potentially contribute to HCC development through the interaction between C-terminal-truncated HBx and Bcl-xL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Kusunoki
- Research Center for Biological Products in the Next Generation, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashimurayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Taiichi Sakamoto
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Chiba Institute of Technology, Narashino, Chiba 275-0016, Japan
| | - Naohiro Kobayashi
- Laboratory for Advanced NMR Application and Development, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Kohno
- Department of Medical Informatics, Research and Development Center for Medical Education, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan
| | - Kaori Wakamatsu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Graduate School of Engineering, Gunma University, Kiryu, Gunma 376-8515, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagata
- Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Uji 611-0011, Japan
- Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Uji 611-0011, Japan
- Integrated Research Center for Carbon Negative Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Uji 611-0011, Japan
- Biomass Product Tree Industry-Academia Collaborative Research Laboratory, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Uji 611-0011, Japan
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3
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Kong X, Liu Z, Zhang R, Xie F, Liang R, Zhang Y, Yu L, Yang W, Li X, Chen Q, Li B, Hong Y, Li M, Xia X, Gu L, Fu L, Li X, Shen Y, Wu T, Yu C, Li W. JMJD2D stabilises and cooperates with HBx protein to promote HBV transcription and replication. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100849. [PMID: 37701334 PMCID: PMC10494471 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims HBV infection is a global health burden. Covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) transcriptional regulation is a major cause of poor cure rates of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. Herein, we evaluated whether targeting host factors to achieve functional silencing of cccDNA may represent a novel strategy for the treatment of HBV infection. Methods To evaluate the effects of Jumonji C domain-containing (JMJD2) protein subfamily JMJD2A-2D proteins on HBV replication, we used lentivirus-based RNA interference to suppress the expression of isoforms JMJD2A-2D in HBV-infected cells. JMJD2D-knockout mice were generated to obtain an HBV-injected model for in vivo experiments. Co-immunoprecipitation and ubiquitylation assays were used to detect JMJD2D-HBx interactions and HBx stability modulated by JMJD2D. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed to investigate JMJD2D-cccDNA and HBx-cccDNA interactions. Results Among the JMJD2 family members, JMJD2D was significantly upregulated in mouse livers and human hepatoma cells. Downregulation of JMJD2D inhibited cccDNA transcription and HBV replication. Molecularly, JMJD2D sustained HBx stability by suppressing the TRIM14-mediated ubiquitin-proteasome degradation pathway and acted as a key co-activator of HBx to augment HBV replication. The JMJD2D-targeting inhibitor, 5C-8-HQ, suppressed cccDNA transcription and HBV replication. Conclusion Our study clarified the mechanism by which JMJD2D regulates HBV transcription and replication and identified JMJD2D as a potential diagnostic biomarker and promising drug target against CHB, and HBV-associated hepatocarcinoma. Impact and implications HBV cccDNA is central to persistent infection and is a major obstacle to healing CHB. In this study, using cellular and animal HBV models, JMJD2D was found to stabilise and cooperate with HBx to augment HBV transcription and replication. This study reveals a potential novel translational target for intervention in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Kong
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zuofeng Liu
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatology, Affiliated Hospital of Panzhihua University, Panzhihua, China
| | - Ruyi Zhang
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Fu’an Xie
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Rubing Liang
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lingling Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Wensheng Yang
- Department of Pathology, Chenggong Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xi Li
- College of Arts and Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Bei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yilin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ming Li
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Research and Developing, Xiamen Medicine Research Institute, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaogang Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lingwei Gu
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Management, Jiang Xia Blood Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Lijuan Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- Department of Surgery, Affiliated Fuzhou First Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Management, Jiang Xia Blood Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Wu
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Chundong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wengang Li
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Liu W, Yao Q, Su X, Deng Y, Yang M, Peng B, Zhao F, Du C, Zhang X, Zhu J, Wang D, Li W, Li H. Molecular insights into Spindlin1-HBx interplay and its impact on HBV transcription from cccDNA minichromosome. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4663. [PMID: 37537164 PMCID: PMC10400593 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular interplay between host epigenetic factors and viral proteins constitutes an intriguing mechanism for sustaining hepatitis B virus (HBV) life cycle and its chronic infection. HBV encodes a regulatory protein, HBx, which activates transcription and replication of HBV genome organized as covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA minichromosome. Here we illustrate how HBx accomplishes its task by hijacking Spindlin1, an epigenetic reader comprising three consecutive Tudor domains. Our biochemical and structural studies have revealed that the highly conserved N-terminal 2-21 segment of HBx (HBx2-21) associates intimately with Tudor 3 of Spindlin1, enhancing histone H3 "K4me3-K9me3" readout by Tudors 2 and 1. Functionally, Spindlin1-HBx engagement promotes gene expression from the chromatinized cccDNA, accompanied by an epigenetic switch from an H3K9me3-enriched repressive state to an H3K4me3-marked active state, as well as a conformational switch of HBx that may occur in coordination with other HBx-binding factors, such as DDB1. Despite a proposed transrepression activity of HBx2-21, our study reveals a key role of Spindlin1 in derepressing this conserved motif, thereby promoting HBV transcription from its chromatinized genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qiyan Yao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaonan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yafang Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Mo Yang
- National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, 1050 Boyles Str., Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Bo Peng
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Fan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chao Du
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiulan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jinsong Zhu
- National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China
- Suzhou Puxin Life Science Technology, Ltd, Suzhou, 215124, China
| | - Daliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Wenhui Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China.
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Haitao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100084, China.
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Villanueva RA, Loyola A. Pre- and Post-Transcriptional Control of HBV Gene Expression: The Road Traveled towards the New Paradigm of HBx, Its Isoforms, and Their Diverse Functions. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1674. [PMID: 37371770 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped DNA human virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family. Perhaps its main distinguishable characteristic is the replication of its genome through a reverse transcription process. The HBV circular genome encodes only four overlapping reading frames, encoding for the main canonical proteins named core, P, surface, and X (or HBx protein). However, pre- and post-transcriptional gene regulation diversifies the full HBV proteome into diverse isoform proteins. In line with this, hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) is a viral multifunctional and regulatory protein of 16.5 kDa, whose canonical reading frame presents two phylogenetically conserved internal in-frame translational initiation codons, and which results as well in the expression of two divergent N-terminal smaller isoforms of 8.6 and 5.8 kDa, during translation. The canonical HBx, as well as the smaller isoform proteins, displays different roles during viral replication and subcellular localizations. In this article, we reviewed the different mechanisms of pre- and post-transcriptional regulation of protein expression that take place during viral replication. We also investigated all the past and recent evidence about HBV HBx gene regulation and its divergent N-terminal isoform proteins. Evidence has been collected for over 30 years. The accumulated evidence simply strengthens the concept of a new paradigm of the canonical HBx, and its smaller divergent N-terminal isoform proteins, not only during viral replication, but also throughout cell pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alejandra Loyola
- Centro Ciencia & Vida, Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Santiago 8580702, Chile
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago 7510602, Chile
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Relevance of HBx for Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054964. [PMID: 36902395 PMCID: PMC10003785 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) counts as a major global health problem, as it presents a significant causative factor for liver-related morbidity and mortality. The development of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) as a characteristic of a persistent, chronic infection could be caused, among others, by the pleiotropic function of the viral regulatory protein HBx. The latter is known to modulate an onset of cellular and viral signaling processes with emerging influence in liver pathogenesis. However, the flexible and multifunctional nature of HBx impedes the fundamental understanding of related mechanisms and the development of associated diseases, and has even led to partial controversial results in the past. Based on the cellular distribution of HBx-nuclear-, cytoplasmic- or mitochondria-associated-this review encompasses the current knowledge and previous investigations of HBx in context of cellular signaling pathways and HBV-associated pathogenesis. In addition, particular focus is set on the clinical relevance and potential novel therapeutic applications in the context of HBx.
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He L, Shen H, Deng H, Zhang X, Xu Y, Shi C, Ouyang Z. Identification of critical residues in the regulatory protein HBx for Smc5/6 interaction and hepatitis B virus production. Antiviral Res 2023; 211:105519. [PMID: 36592669 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The host structural maintenance of chromosomes 5/6 complex (Smc5/6) is a restriction factor of hepatitis B virus (HBV) that inhibits the transcription of viral ccDNA. HBV antagonizes this restriction by expressing the regulatory X protein (HBx) which targets Smc5/6 for degradation via DNA damage-binding protein 1 (DDB1) E3 ubiquitin ligase. However, the molecular insights into how Smc5/6 interacts with HBx remain elusive. In this study, we systematically investigated the interaction between Smc5/6 and HBx. Smc5/6 interacts with HBx through multiple sites in the absence of DDB1 in the pull-down assay. HBx C-terminal is sufficient for the interaction. Most importantly, residue Phe132, which is strictly conserved in all HBV subtypes, is critical for interaction with Smc5/6 both in vitro and in vivo. Mutation of this site (F132A) results in defect in Smc5/6 interaction, extrachromosomal reporter transcription, and HBV production both in cells and in mouse model. Collectively, our data identifies a key residue on HBx for Smc5/6 interaction and viral production. These results provide valuable information for both basic research and therapeutic drugs targeting HBx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili He
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Huanyu Shen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Hui Deng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Chunwei Shi
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China
| | - Zhuqing Ouyang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430030, China.
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8
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Oda C, Kamimura K, Shibata O, Morita S, Tanaka Y, Setsu T, Abe H, Yokoo T, Sakamaki A, Kamimura H, Kofuji S, Wakai T, Nishina H, Terai S. HBx and YAP expression could promote tumor development and progression in HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 32:101352. [PMID: 36160029 PMCID: PMC9490549 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 10%–20% of the total HCC numbers. Its clinical features include the occurrence in the younger generation, large tumors, and poor prognosis. The contribution of hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein in hepatocytes during activation of various oncogenic pathways has been reported. We aimed to assess the possible association between HBx and Yes-associated protein (YAP) expression in the liver tissue and the clinical features of HBV-related HCC. Methods The relationship between HBx and YAP expression was examined in vivo using HCC tumor and peritumor tissues (n = 55). The clinical information including tumor size, marker, and the prognosis was assessed with protein expressions. The in vitro gene expression analyses were conducted using HBx- and YAP-overexpressing HCC cell lines. Results Among 19 cases of HBV-related, 17 cases of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related, and 19 cases of nonviral-related HCC, the HBV-related tumor showed the largest size. The HBx-stained area in the tumor and peritumor tissue showed a significant correlation with tumor size and serum α-fetoprotein level. YAP expression was higher in HBV-related tumor tissue than in the peritumor tissue and HCV-related tumor. Additionally, HBx and YAP protein expressions are correlated and both expressions in the tumor contributed to the poor prognosis. An in vitro study demonstrated that HBx and YAP overexpression in the hepatocytes activate the various oncogenic signaling pathways. Conclusions Our study demonstrated that YAP expression in the liver of HBV-infected patients might be the key factor in HBV-related HCC development and control of tumor-related features. HBx and YAP expression are related to the HCC size and tumor marker level. HBx activates YAP expression and both protein expressions are correlated. Co-expression of HBx and YAP contributes to the poor prognosis of HCC cases. HBx and YAP expression in vitro activated various oncogenic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiyumi Oda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kenya Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
- Department of General Medicine, Niigata University School of Medicine, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
- Corresponding author. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, 1-757, Asahimachi-Dori, Chuo-Ku, Niigata, Japan.
| | - Osamu Shibata
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Shinichi Morita
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yuto Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Toru Setsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Abe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yokoo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akira Sakamaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroteru Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kofuji
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Wakai
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishina
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
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9
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Antiviral Compounds Screening Targeting HBx Protein of the Hepatitis B Virus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231912015. [PMID: 36233317 PMCID: PMC9569680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A functional cure of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection or HB antigen loss is rarely achieved by nucleos(t)ide analogs which target viral polymerase. HBx protein is a regulatory protein associated with HBV replication. We thought to identify antiviral compounds targeting HBx protein by analyzing HBx binding activity. Recombinant GST-tagged HBx protein was applied on an FDA-approved drug library chip including 1018 compounds to determine binding affinity by surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) using a PlexArray HT system. GST protein alone was used for control experiments. Candidate compounds were tested for anti-HBV activity as well as cell viability using HepG2.2.15.7 cells and HBV-infected human hepatocytes. Of the 1018 compounds screened, 24 compounds showed binding to HBx protein. Of the top 6 compounds with high affinity to HBx protein, tranilast was found to inhibit HBV replication without affecting cell viability using HepG2.2.15.7 cells. Tranilast also inhibited HBV infection using cultured human hepatocytes. Tranilast reduced HB antigen level dose-dependently. Overall, theSPRi screening assay identified novel drug candidates targeting HBx protein. Tranilast and its related compounds warrant further investigation for the treatment of HBV infection.
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Kusunoki H, Hamaguchi I, Kobayashi N, Nagata T. Chemical shift assignments of a fusion protein comprising the C-terminal-deleted hepatitis B virus X protein BH3-like motif peptide and Bcl-x L. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2022; 16:357-361. [PMID: 36044106 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-022-10104-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for the development of liver diseases including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV has the multifunctional protein, HBV X protein (HBx, 154 residues), which plays key roles in HBV replication and liver disease development. Interaction of HBx through its BH3-like motif with the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL leads to HBV replication and induction of apoptosis, resulting in HCC development. Our previous nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) study revealed that the HBx BH3-like motif peptide (residues 101-136) binds to the common BH3-binding groove of Bcl-xL. Importantly, a C-terminal-truncated HBx, e.g., residues 1-120 of HBx, is strongly associated with the increased risk of HBV-related HCC development. However, the interaction mode between the C-terminal-truncated HBx and Bcl-xL remains unclear. To elucidate this interaction mode, the C-terminal-deleted HBx BH3-like motif peptide (residues 101-120) was used as a model peptide in this study. To facilitate the NMR analysis, we prepared a fusion protein of HBx (101-120) and Bcl-xL connected with five repeats of the glycine-serine dipeptide as a linker. Here, we report the 1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments of the fusion protein. This is the first step for the elucidation of the pathogenesis of liver diseases caused by the interaction between the C-terminal-truncated HBx and Bcl-xL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Kusunoki
- Research Center for Biological Products in the Next Generation, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashimurayama, Tokyo, 208-0011, Japan.
| | - Isao Hamaguchi
- Research Center for Biological Products in the Next Generation, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Musashimurayama, Tokyo, 208-0011, Japan
| | - Naohiro Kobayashi
- Laboratory for Advanced NMR Application and Development, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagata
- Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan.
- Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan.
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Epremyan KK, Goleva TN, Rogov AG, Lavrushkina SV, Zinovkin RA, Zvyagilskaya RA. The First Yarrowia lipolytica Yeast Models Expressing Hepatitis B Virus X Protein: Changes in Mitochondrial Morphology and Functions. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091817. [PMID: 36144419 PMCID: PMC9501646 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus infection is the dominant cause of hepatocellular carcinoma, the main cause of cancer death. HBx protein, a multifunctional protein, is essential for pathogenesis development; however, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The complexity of the system itself, and the intricate interplay of many factors make it difficult to advance in understanding the mechanisms underlying these processes. The most obvious solution is to use simpler systems by reducing the number of interacting factors. Yeast cells are particularly suitable for studying the relationships between oxidative stress, mitochondrial dynamics (mitochondrial fusion and fragmentation), and mitochondrial dysfunction involved in HBx-mediated pathogenesis. For the first time, genetically modified yeast, Y. lipolytica, was created, expressing the hepatitis B virus core protein HBx, as well as a variant fused with eGFP at the C-end. It was found that cells expressing HBx experienced stronger oxidative stress than the control cells. Oxidative stress was alleviated by preincubation with the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQThy. Consistent with these data, in contrast to the control cells (pZ-0) containing numerous mitochondrial forming a mitochondrial reticulum, in cells expressing HBx protein, mitochondria were fragmented, and preincubation with SkQThy partially restored the mitochondrial reticulum. Expression of HBx had a significant influence on the bioenergetic function of mitochondria, making them loosely coupled with decreased respiratory rate and reduced ATP formation. In sum, the first highly promising yeast model for studying the impact of HBx on bioenergy, redox-state, and dynamics of mitochondria in the cell and cross-talk between these parameters was offered. This fairly simple model can be used as a platform for rapid screening of potential therapeutic agents, mitigating the harmful effects of HBx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khoren K. Epremyan
- A.N. Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Ave. 33/2, 119071 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (K.K.E.); (R.A.Z.); Tel.: +7-(917)-575-3560 (K.K.E.)
| | - Tatyana N. Goleva
- A.N. Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Ave. 33/2, 119071 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anton G. Rogov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Akademika Kurchatova pl. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana V. Lavrushkina
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskye Gory 1/40, 119992 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskye Gory 1/73, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Roman A. Zinovkin
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskye Gory 1/40, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Renata A. Zvyagilskaya
- A.N. Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Research Center of Biotechnology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Ave. 33/2, 119071 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (K.K.E.); (R.A.Z.); Tel.: +7-(917)-575-3560 (K.K.E.)
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Lim D, Jin S, Shin HC, Kim W, Choi JS, Oh DB, Kim SJ, Seo J, Ku B. Structural and biochemical analyses of Bcl-xL in complex with the BH3 domain of peroxisomal testis-specific 1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 625:174-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Shofa M, Kaneko Y, Takahashi K, Okabayashi T, Saito A. Global Prevalence of Domestic Cat Hepadnavirus: An Emerging Threat to Cats’ Health? Front Microbiol 2022; 13:938154. [PMID: 35814669 PMCID: PMC9263588 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.938154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B is an infectious hepatocellular disease of global concern caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV), which belongs to Hepadnaviridae. Recently, a novel HBV-like virus, domestic cat hepadnavirus (DCH), was detected from an immunocompromised cat with a hepatic disease in Australia. Subsequent molecular investigation by independent research groups revealed that its prevalence rates were 6.5% in Australia, 10.8% in Italy, 12.4% in Thailand, 12.3% in Malaysia, 3.08% in the United Kingdom, and 0.78% in Japan. Although the correlation between DCH infection and hepatic diseases remains to be elucidated, understanding the diversity of circulating DCH will contribute to its prevention and control in domestic cats. Herein, we summarize the current epidemiological data of DCH in these countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Shofa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kaneko
- Faculty of Agriculture, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Kazuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Tamaki Okabayashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Center for Animal Disease Control, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Akatsuki Saito
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Center for Animal Disease Control, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- *Correspondence: Akatsuki Saito,
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Nečasová I, Stojaspal M, Motyčáková E, Brom T, Janovič T, Hofr C. Transcriptional regulators of human oncoviruses: structural and functional implications for anticancer therapy. NAR Cancer 2022; 4:zcac005. [PMID: 35252867 PMCID: PMC8892037 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription is often the first biosynthetic event of viral infection. Viruses produce preferentially viral transcriptional regulators (vTRs) essential for expressing viral genes and regulating essential host cell proteins to enable viral genome replication. As vTRs are unique viral proteins that promote the transcription of viral nucleic acid, vTRs interact with host proteins to suppress detection and immune reactions to viral infection. Thus, vTRs are promising therapeutic targets that are sequentially and structurally distinct from host cell proteins. Here, we review vTRs of three human oncoviruses: HBx of hepatitis B virus, HBZ of human T-lymphotropic virus type 1, and Rta of Epstein–Barr virus. We present three cunningly exciting and dangerous transcription strategies that make viral infections so efficient. We use available structural and functional knowledge to critically examine the potential of vTRs as new antiviral-anticancer therapy targets. For each oncovirus, we describe (i) the strategy of viral genome transcription; (ii) vTRs’ structure and binding partners essential for transcription regulation; and (iii) advantages and challenges of vTR targeting in antiviral therapies. We discuss the implications of vTR regulation for oncogenesis and perspectives on developing novel antiviral and anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Nečasová
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Scientific Incubator, Královopolská 135, Brno 612 65, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Stojaspal
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Scientific Incubator, Královopolská 135, Brno 612 65, Czech Republic
| | - Edita Motyčáková
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Scientific Incubator, Královopolská 135, Brno 612 65, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Brom
- LifeB, Functional Genomics and Proteomics, National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Janovič
- LifeB, Functional Genomics and Proteomics, National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Ctirad Hofr
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Scientific Incubator, Královopolská 135, Brno 612 65, Czech Republic
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Medhat A, Arzumanyan A, Feitelson MA. Hepatitis B x antigen (HBx) is an important therapeutic target in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2021; 12:2421-2433. [PMID: 34853663 PMCID: PMC8629409 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a human pathogen that has infected an estimated two billion people worldwide. Despite the availability of highly efficacious vaccines, universal screening of the blood supply for virus, and potent direct acting anti-viral drugs, there are more than 250 million carriers of HBV who are at risk for the sequential development of hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). More than 800,000 deaths per year are attributed to chronic hepatitis B. Many different therapeutic approaches have been developed to block virus replication, and although effective, none are curative. These treatments have little or no impact upon the portions of integrated HBV DNA, which often encode the virus regulatory protein, HBx. Although given little attention, HBx is an important therapeutic target because it contributes importantly to (a) HBV replication, (b) in protecting infected cells from immune mediated destruction during chronic infection, and (c) in the development of HCC. Thus, the development of therapies targeting HBx, combined with other established therapies, will provide a functional cure that will target virus replication and further reduce or eliminate both the morbidity and mortality associated with chronic liver disease and HCC. Simultaneous targeting of all these characteristics underscores the importance of developing therapies against HBx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvin Medhat
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Azad University, North Unit, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alla Arzumanyan
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mark A Feitelson
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Canonical and Divergent N-Terminal HBx Isoform Proteins Unveiled: Characteristics and Roles during HBV Replication. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111701. [PMID: 34829930 PMCID: PMC8616016 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) X protein (HBx) is a viral regulatory and multifunctional protein. It is well-known that the canonical HBx reading frame bears two phylogenetically conserved internal in-frame translational initiation codons at Met2 and Met3, thus possibly generating divergent N-terminal smaller isoforms during translation. Here, we demonstrate that the three distinct HBx isoforms are generated from the ectopically expressed HBV HBx gene, named XF (full-length), XM (medium-length), and XS (short-length); they display different subcellular localizations when expressed individually in cultured hepatoma cells. Particularly, the smallest HBx isoform, XS, displayed a predominantly cytoplasmic localization. To study HBx proteins during viral replication, we performed site-directed mutagenesis to target the individual or combinatorial expression of the HBx isoforms within the HBV viral backbone (full viral genome). Our results indicate that of all HBx isoforms, only the smallest HBx isoform, XS, can restore WT levels of HBV replication, and bind to the viral mini chromosome, thereby establishing an active chromatin state, highlighting its crucial activities during HBV replication. Intriguingly, we found that sequences of HBV HBx genotype H are devoid of the conserved Met3 position, and therefore HBV genotype H infection is naturally silent for the expression of the HBx XS isoform. Finally, we found that the HBx XM (medium-length) isoform shares significant sequence similarity with the N-terminus domain of the COMMD8 protein, a member of the copper metabolism MURR1 domain-containing (COMMD) protein family. This novel finding might facilitate studies on the phylogenetic origin of the HBV X protein. The identification and functional characterization of its isoforms will shift the paradigm by changing the concept of HBx from being a unique, canonical, and multifunctional protein toward the occurrence of different HBx isoforms, carrying out different overlapping functions at different subcellular localizations during HBV genome replication. Significantly, our current work unveils new crucial HBV targets to study for potential antiviral research, and human virus pathogenesis.
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17
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Li T, Zhao G, Zhang T, Zhang Z, Chen X, Song J, Wang X, Li J, Huang L, Wen L, Li C, Zhao D, He X, Bu Z, Zheng J, Weng C. African Swine Fever Virus pE199L Induces Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis. Viruses 2021; 13:2240. [PMID: 34835046 PMCID: PMC8617669 DOI: 10.3390/v13112240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) is a severe hemorrhagic disease in swine characterized by massive lymphocyte depletion and cell death, with apoptosis and necrosis in infected lymphoid tissues. However, the molecular mechanism regarding ASFV-induced cell death remains largely unknown. In this study, 94 ASFV-encoded proteins were screened to determine the viral proteins involved in cell death in vitro, and pE199L showed the most significant effect. Ectopic expression of pE199L in porcine cells (CRL-2843) and human cells (HEK293T and HeLa cells) induced cell death remarkably, showing obvious shrinking, blistering, apoptotic bodies, and nuclear DNA fragments. Meanwhile, cell death was markedly alleviated when the expression of pE199L was knocked down during ASFV infection. Additionally, the expression of pE199L caused a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome C, and caspase-9 and -3/7 activation, indicating that the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway was involved in pE199L-induced apoptosis. Further investigations showed that pE199L interacted with several anti-apoptotic BCL-2 subfamily members (such as BCL-XL, MCL-1, BCL-W, and BCL-2A1) and competed with BAK for BCL-XL, which promoted BAK and BAX activation. Taken together, ASFV pE199L induces the mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis, which may provide clues for a comprehensive understanding of ASFV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jun Zheng
- Division of Fundamental Immunology, National African Swine Fever Para-Reference Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Harbin 150069, China; (T.L.); (G.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.C.); (J.S.); (X.W.); (J.L.); (L.H.); (L.W.); (C.L.); (D.Z.); (X.H.); (Z.B.)
| | - Changjiang Weng
- Division of Fundamental Immunology, National African Swine Fever Para-Reference Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Harbin 150069, China; (T.L.); (G.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.C.); (J.S.); (X.W.); (J.L.); (L.H.); (L.W.); (C.L.); (D.Z.); (X.H.); (Z.B.)
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Abstract
Viral infection is an indisputable causal factor for nearly 17% of all human cancers. However, the diversity and complexity of oncogenic mechanisms raises new questions as to the mechanistic role of viruses in cancer. Classical viral oncogenes have been identified for all tumor-associated viruses. These oncogenes can have multiple oncogenic activities that may or may not be utilized in a particular tumor cell. In addition, stochastic events, like viral mutation and integration, as well as heritable host susceptibilities and immune deficiencies are also implicated in tumorigenesis. A more contemporary view of tumor biology highlights the importance of evolutionary forces that select for phenotypes better adapted to a complex and changing environment. Given the challenges of prioritizing singular mechanistic causes, it may be necessary to integrate concepts from evolutionary theory and systems biology to better understand viral cancer-driving forces. Here, we propose that viral infection provides a biological “entropy” that increases genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity, accelerating the main driving forces of cancer cell evolution. Viruses can also influence the evolutionary selection criteria by altering the tumor microenvironment and immune signaling. Utilizing concepts from cancer cell evolution, population genetics, thermodynamics, and systems biology may provide new perspectives on viral oncogenesis and identify novel therapeutic strategies for treating viruses and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Italo Tempera
- Program in Gene Expression and Regulation, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Paul M Lieberman
- Program in Gene Expression and Regulation, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Khan A, Ahsan O, Wei DQ, Ansari JK, Najmi MH, Muhammad K, Waheed Y. Computational Evaluation of Abrogation of HBx-Bcl-xL Complex with High-Affinity Carbon Nanotubes (Fullerene) to Halt the Hepatitis B Virus Replication. Molecules 2021; 26:6433. [PMID: 34770842 PMCID: PMC8587554 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the world's most prevalent chronic viral infection. More than 350 million individuals are chronic carriers of the virus, with an estimated 2 billion infected persons. For instance, the role of HBx protein in attachment and infection is very obvious and consequently deemed as an important druggable target. Targeting the interface and discovering novel drugs greatly advanced the field of therapeutics development. Therefore, in the current study, HBx to Bcl-xL is abrogated on high-affinity carbon nanotubes using computational structural biology tools. Our analysis revealed that among the total 62 carbon fullerenes, only 13 compounds exhibited inhibitory activity against HBx, which was further confirmed through IFD-based rescoring. Structural dynamics investigation revealed stable binding, compactness, and hydrogen bonds reprogramming. Moreover, the binding free energy calculation results revealed that the top hits1-4 possess the total binding energy of -54.36 kcal/mol (hit1), -50.81 kcal/mol (hit2), -47.09 kcal/mol (hit3), and -45.59 kcal/mol for hit4. In addition, the predicted KD values and bioactivity scores further validated the inhibitory potential of these top hits. The identified compounds need further in vitro and in vivo validation to aid the treatment process of HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Khan
- Foundation University Medical College, Foundation University Islamabad, DHA-I, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan; (A.K.); (O.A.); (J.K.A.); (M.H.N.)
| | - Omar Ahsan
- Foundation University Medical College, Foundation University Islamabad, DHA-I, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan; (A.K.); (O.A.); (J.K.A.); (M.H.N.)
| | - Dong-Qing Wei
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China;
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai-Islamabad-Belgrade Joint Innovation Centre on Antibacterial Resistances, Joint Laboratory of International Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, Ministry of Education and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Vanke Cloud City Phase I Building 8, Xili Street, Nashan District, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jawad Khaliq Ansari
- Foundation University Medical College, Foundation University Islamabad, DHA-I, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan; (A.K.); (O.A.); (J.K.A.); (M.H.N.)
| | - Muzammil Hasan Najmi
- Foundation University Medical College, Foundation University Islamabad, DHA-I, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan; (A.K.); (O.A.); (J.K.A.); (M.H.N.)
| | - Khalid Muhammad
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yasir Waheed
- Foundation University Medical College, Foundation University Islamabad, DHA-I, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan; (A.K.); (O.A.); (J.K.A.); (M.H.N.)
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Tang F, Huang G, Lin L, Yin H, Shao L, Xu R, Cui X. Anti-HBV Activities of Polysaccharides from Thais clavigera (Küster) by In Vitro and In Vivo Study. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19040195. [PMID: 33808126 PMCID: PMC8066037 DOI: 10.3390/md19040195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global health problem. It is therefore imperative to develop drugs for anti-hepatitis B with high-efficiency and low toxicity. Attracted by the observations and evidence that the symptoms of some patients from the Southern Fujian, China, suffering from hepatitis B were alleviated after daily eating an edible marine mollusk, Thais clavigera (Küster 1860) (TCK). Water-soluble polysaccharide from TCK (TCKP1) was isolated and characterized. The anti-HBV activity of TCKP1 and its regulatory pathway were investigated on both HepG2.2.15 cell line and HBV transgenic mice. The data obtained from in vitro studies showed that TCKP1 significantly enhanced the production of IFN-α, and reduced the level of HBV antigens and HBV DNA in the supernatants of HepG2.2.15 cells in a dose-dependent manner with low cytotoxicity. The result of the study on the HBV transgenic mice further revealed that TCKP1 significantly decreased the level of transaminases, HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV DNA in the serum, as well as HBsAg, HBeAg, HBV DNA, and HBV RNA in the liver of HBV transgenic (HBV-Tg) mice. Furthermore, TCKP1 exhibited equivalent inhibitory effect with the positive control tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) on the markers above except for HBV DNA even in low dosage in a mouse model. However, the TCKP1 high-dose group displayed stronger inhibition of transaminases and liver HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV RNA when compared with those of TAF. Meanwhile, inflammation of the liver was, by pathological observation, relieved in a dose-dependent manner after being treated with TCKP1. In addition, elevated levels of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon γ (IFN-γ), and reduced level of interleukin-4 (IL-4) in the serum were observed, indicating that the anti-HBV effect of TCKP1 was achieved by potentiating immunocyte function and regulating the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Tang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis of Fujian Universities, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine and Gene Drugs, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Guanghua Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis of Fujian Universities, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine and Gene Drugs, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Liping Lin
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis of Fujian Universities, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine and Gene Drugs, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Hong Yin
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
| | - Lili Shao
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
| | - Ruian Xu
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis of Fujian Universities, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine and Gene Drugs, Xiamen 361021, China
- Correspondence: (R.X.); (X.C.)
| | - Xiuling Cui
- Engineering Research Center of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (F.T.); (G.H.); (L.L.); (H.Y.); (L.S.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis of Fujian Universities, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine and Gene Drugs, Xiamen 361021, China
- Correspondence: (R.X.); (X.C.)
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21
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Structural insight into the type-specific epitope of porcine circovirus type 3. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:225017. [PMID: 32458997 PMCID: PMC7295619 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20201109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The recently identified pathogenic Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) may threaten to reduce the pig population dramatically worldwide. In our previous study, a PCV3-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb-1H11) was successfully applied in immune-histochemistry staining and ELISA, which specifically recognize PCV3 capsid protein in PCV3-positive pig tissues. In the present study, we expressed and purified the soluble sole capsid protein of PCV3. The purified capsid protein was capable of self-assembly into virus-like-particles (VLPs), which is validated by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering assays. Moreover, the epitope of mAb-1H11 was identified in the CD-loop region (a.a. 72-79) on the VLP surface, which is confirmed by PCV2-PCV3 epitope swapping assay. For the first time, we determined the cryo-EM structure of PCV3-VLP at 8.5 Å resolution that reveals the detailed structural information of PCV3-VLP. In our cryo-EM structure, PCV3-VLP is composed of 60 capsid protein subunits assembled with T = 1 icosahedral symmetry. Consistent to our bio-dot Western blot assay, the structural comparison between PCV3 and PCV2 revealed significant structural differences in the surface-exposed loops, including the CD-loop (a.a. 72-79) and the EF-loop (a.a. 109-131). Our work provides a structural framework for engineering future PCV3 vaccine and diagnosis kits development.
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22
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Wyżewski Z, Świtlik W, Mielcarska MB, Gregorczyk-Zboroch KP. The Role of Bcl-xL Protein in Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041956. [PMID: 33669408 PMCID: PMC7920434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bcl-xL represents a family of proteins responsible for the regulation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Due to its anti-apoptotic activity, Bcl-xL co-determines the viability of various virally infected cells. Their survival may determine the effectiveness of viral replication and spread, dynamics of systemic infection, and viral pathogenesis. In this paper, we have reviewed the role of Bcl-xL in the context of host infection by eight different RNA and DNA viruses: hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), influenza A virus (IAV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1), Maraba virus (MRBV), Schmallenberg virus (SBV) and coronavirus (CoV). We have described an influence of viral infection on the intracellular level of Bcl-xL and discussed the impact of Bcl-xL-dependent cell survival control on infection-accompanying pathogenic events such as tissue damage or oncogenesis. We have also presented anti-viral treatment strategies based on the pharmacological regulation of Bcl-xL expression or activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zbigniew Wyżewski
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48 728-208-338
| | - Weronika Świtlik
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Matylda Barbara Mielcarska
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.M.); (K.P.G.-Z.)
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23
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Risk Factors and Biomarkers for Chronic Hepatitis B Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020479. [PMID: 33418899 PMCID: PMC7825109 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatitis B virus (HBV) related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality. This is, in part, due to delayed diagnosis and limited therapeutic options with more advanced stages of the disease. Given the prognostic importance of early diagnosis, novel methods for early detection are in need. Unlike most other cancer types, tissue is not required to diagnose HCC and is frequently avoided given the inherent risks of liver biopsy, so less invasive methods of obtaining tumor material are currently under investigation. Material shed from tumors into the periphery are being investigated for their potential to both surveil and diagnose patients for HCC. These materials include circulating tumor cells, DNA, RNA, and exosomes, and are collectively termed a “liquid biopsy”. In this review article, we discuss the evolving literature regarding the different risk factors for HCC and the types of emerging novel biomarkers that show promise in the prevention and early diagnosis of HCC within the context of HBV infection.
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24
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Cui J, Zhang N, Liu Y, Zhang L, Gao C, Liu S. Microarray gene expression profiling provides insights into functions of TIPE2 in HBV-related apoptosis. Mol Immunol 2021; 131:137-143. [PMID: 33419563 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2020.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein-8 like-2 (TNFAIP8L2, TIPE2), a member of TNFAIP8 family, functions as a regulator in inflammation. Our previous studies showed that TIPE2 can negatively regulate HBV-specific CD8+ T lymphocyte functions. But the effect of TIPE2 on the apoptosis of HBV-infected hepatocytes which is very important for eliminating viruses remains unclear. Using gene expression microarray analysis, we find that TIPE2 deficiency can regulate the expression of apoptotic genes in liver tissues from HBV hydrodynamic injection (HI) mouse model. TIPE2 protein was detected in TUNEL staining positive hepatocytes in HBV-infected C57 mice. Interestingly, the TIPE2 expressed hepatocytes were just the HBV infected cells. Furthermore, TIPE2 upregulates the mRNA levels of FasL, Bim and TNFRsF1b which promote cells death, when TIPE2 was transfected into HepG2 cells in vitro. As a result, TIPE2 overexpression cells showed a higher number of apoptotic cells and increased level of cleavage caspase3 compared to controls. Those results indicate that TIPE2 participates in HBV infection by regulating apoptosis of virus-infected hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cui
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China; Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Jinan, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China
| | - Chengjiang Gao
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China; Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Jinan, China
| | - Suxia Liu
- Department of Immunology, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Ji'nan, China; Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, Shandong University School of Basic Medical Science, Jinan, China.
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25
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Reynolds G, Stewart T, Harrison SJ, Spencer A, Teh BW. Hepatitis B reverse seroconversion despite entecavir prophylaxis in a myeloma patient on multiple novel agents: a case report and review of the literature. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 62:1271-1274. [PMID: 33275059 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1855343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Reynolds
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tamasine Stewart
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Simon J Harrison
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Andrew Spencer
- Department of Malignant Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Benjamin W Teh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
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26
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Muriungi NG, Ueda K. TIMM29 interacts with hepatitis B virus preS1 to modulate the HBV life cycle. Microbiol Immunol 2020; 64:792-809. [PMID: 32970362 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV), a major global health problem, can cause chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinomas in chronically infected patients. However, before HBV infection can be adequately controlled, many mysteries about the HBV life cycle must be solved. In this study, TIMM29, an inner mitochondrial membrane protein, was identified as an interaction partner of the preS1 region of the HBV large S protein. The interaction was verified by both an immunoprecipitation with preS1 peptides and a GST-pulldown assay. Immunofluorescence studies also showed colocalization of preS1 and TIMM29. Moreover, it was determined that the preS1 bound with amino acids 92-189 of the TIMM29 protein. Infection of HBV in TIMM29-overexpressing NTCP/G2 cells resulted in a significant decrease of HBeAg and both extracellular particle-associated and core particle-associated HBV DNA without affecting cccDNA formation. Comparable results were obtained with TIMM29-overexpressing HB611 cells, which constitutively produce HBV. In contrast, knockout of TIMM29 in NTCP/G2 cells led to a higher production of HBV including HBeAg expression, as did knockout of TIMM29 in HB611. Collectively, these results suggested that TIMM29 interacts with the preS1 region of the HBV large S protein and modulates HBV amplification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly Gakii Muriungi
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keiji Ueda
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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27
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Han N, Yan L, Wang X, Sun X, Huang F, Tang H. An updated literature review: how HBV X protein regulates the propagation of the HBV. Future Virol 2020. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2020-0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic HBV infection constitutes a burden on human beings and is closely associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. The propagation of the HBV is determined by many factors, and the HBV X protein (HBx) could have a significant influence on this. HBx is a regulatory protein that can directly or indirectly interact with many cellular proteins to affect both the propagation of the HBV and the activity of the host cells. In this review, we summarized the possible mechanisms by which HBx regulates HBV replication at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels in various experimental systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Han
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Libo Yan
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Xueer Wang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, West China School of Basic Science & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xuehong Sun
- Department of Forensic Pathology, West China School of Basic Science & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Feijun Huang
- Department of Forensic Pathology, West China School of Basic Science & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hong Tang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China
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28
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The Bcl-2 Family: Ancient Origins, Conserved Structures, and Divergent Mechanisms. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010128. [PMID: 31940915 PMCID: PMC7022251 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic apoptosis, the response to intracellular cell death stimuli, is regulated by the interplay of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family and their membrane interactions. Bcl-2 proteins mediate a number of processes including development, homeostasis, autophagy, and innate and adaptive immune responses and their dysregulation underpins a host of diseases including cancer. The Bcl-2 family is characterized by the presence of conserved sequence motifs called Bcl-2 homology motifs, as well as a transmembrane region, which form the interaction sites and intracellular location mechanism, respectively. Bcl-2 proteins have been recognized in the earliest metazoans including Porifera (sponges), Placozoans, and Cnidarians (e.g., Hydra). A number of viruses have gained Bcl-2 homologs and subvert innate immunity and cellular apoptosis for their replication, but they frequently have very different sequences to their host Bcl-2 analogs. Though most mechanisms of apoptosis initiation converge on activation of caspases that destroy the cell from within, the numerous gene insertions, deletions, and duplications during evolution have led to a divergence in mechanisms of intrinsic apoptosis. Currently, the action of the Bcl-2 family is best understood in vertebrates and nematodes but new insights are emerging from evolutionarily earlier organisms. This review focuses on the mechanisms underpinning the activity of Bcl-2 proteins including their structures and interactions, and how they have changed over the course of evolution.
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29
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Kusunoki H, Tanaka T, Kohno T, Kimura H, Hosoda K, Wakamatsu K, Hamaguchi I. NMR characterization of the interaction between Bcl-x L and the BH3-like motif of hepatitis B virus X protein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 518:445-450. [PMID: 31439373 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) possesses a BH3-like motif that directly interacts with the anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. Here we report the interaction between the HBx BH3-like motif and Bcl-xL, as revealed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Our results showed that this motif binds to the common BH3-binding hydrophobic groove on the surface of Bcl-xL, with a binding affinity of 89 μM. Furthermore, we examined the role of the tryptophan residue (Trp120) in this motif in Bcl-xL binding using three mutants. The W120A mutant showed weaker binding affinity (294 μM) to Bcl-xL, whereas the W120L and W120F mutants exhibited almost equivalent binding affinity to the wild-type. These results indicate that the bulky hydrophobic residues are important for Bcl-xL binding. The findings will be helpful in understanding the apoptosis networks between viral proteins and host factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Kusunoki
- Department of Safety Research on Blood and Biological Products, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 4-7-1 Gakuen, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo, 208-0011, Japan.
| | - Toshiyuki Tanaka
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8572, Japan; Life Science Center, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Kohno
- Department of Medical Informatics, Research and Development Center for Medical Education, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0374, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kimura
- Department of Health Science, Gunma Paz University Graduate School of Health Science, 1-7-1 Tonyamachi, Takasaki, Gunma, 370-0006, Japan
| | - Kazuo Hosoda
- Department of Molecular Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Gunma University, 1-5-1 Tenjin-cho, Kiryu, Gunma, 376-8515, Japan
| | - Kaori Wakamatsu
- Department of Molecular Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Gunma University, 1-5-1 Tenjin-cho, Kiryu, Gunma, 376-8515, Japan
| | - Isao Hamaguchi
- Department of Safety Research on Blood and Biological Products, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 4-7-1 Gakuen, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo, 208-0011, Japan.
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