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Gao G, Zhou Z. Isthmin-1: A critical regulator of branching morphogenesis and metanephric mesenchyme condensation during early kidney development. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300189. [PMID: 38161234 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300189] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Isthmin-1 (Ism1) was first described to be syn-expressed with Fgf8 in Xenopus. However, its biological role has not been elucidated until recent years. Despite of accumulated evidence that Ism1 participates in angiogenesis, tumor invasion, macrophage apoptosis, and glucose metabolism, the cognate receptors for Ism1 remain largely unknown. Ism1 deficiency in mice results in renal agenesis (RA) with a transient loss of Gdnf transcription and impaired mesenchyme condensation at E11.5. Ism1 binds to and activates Integrin α8β1 to positively regulate Gdnf/Ret signaling, thus promoting mesenchyme condensation and ureteric epithelium branching morphogenesis. Here, we propose the hypothesis underlying the mechanism by which Ism1 regulates branching morphogenesis during early kidney development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Gao
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhongjun Zhou
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Reproductive Medical Center, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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2
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Fallon TK, Zuvin M, Stern AD, Anandakrishnan N, Daehn IS, Azeloglu EU. Open-Source System for Real-Time Functional Assessment of In Vitro Filtration Barriers. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:327-341. [PMID: 37899379 PMCID: PMC10808466 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03378-9] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The integrity of the barrier between blood and the selective filtrate of solutes is important for homeostasis and its disruption contributes to many diseases. Microphysiological systems that incorporate synthetic or natural membranes with human cells can mimic biological filtration barriers, such as the glomerular filtration barrier in the kidney, and they can readily be used to study cellular filtration processes as well as drug effects and interactions. We present an affordable, open-source platform for the real-time monitoring of functional filtration status in engineered microphysiological systems. Using readily available components, our assay can linearly detect real-time concentrations of two target molecules, FITC-labeled inulin and Texas Red-labeled human-serum albumin, within clinically relevant ranges, and it can be easily modified for different target molecules of varying sizes and tags. We demonstrate the platform's ability to determine the concentration of our target molecules automatically and consistently. We show through an acellular context that the platform enables real-time tracking of size-dependent diffusion with minimal fluid volume loss and without manual extraction of media, making it suitable for continuous operational monitoring of filtration status in microphysiological system applications. The platform's affordability and integrability with microphysiological systems make it ideal for many precision medicine applications, including evaluation of drug nephrotoxicity and other forms of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess K Fallon
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University, 500 W. 120th St, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Merve Zuvin
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Alan D Stern
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Nanditha Anandakrishnan
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ilse S Daehn
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Evren U Azeloglu
- Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1243, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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3
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Junqueira Alves C, Hannah T, Sadia S, Kolsteeg C, Dixon A, Wiener RJ, Nguyen H, Tipping MJ, Ladeira JS, Franklin PFDC, Dutra de Nigro NDP, Dias RA, Zabala Capriles PV, Rodrigues Furtado de Mendonça JP, Slesinger P, Costa K, Zou H, Friedel RH. Invasion of glioma cells through confined space requires membrane tension regulation and mechano-electrical coupling via Plexin-B2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.02.573660. [PMID: 38313256 PMCID: PMC10836082 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.02.573660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a malignant brain tumor with uncontrolled invasive growth. Here, we demonstrate how GBM cells usurp guidance receptor Plexin-B2 to gain biomechanical plasticity for polarized migration through confined space. Using live-cell imaging to track GBM cells negotiating microchannels, we reveal active endocytosis at cell front and filamentous actin assembly at rear to propel GBM cells through constrictions. These two processes are interconnected and governed by Plexin-B2 that orchestrates cortical actin and membrane tension, shown by biomechanical assays. Molecular dynamics simulations predict that balanced membrane and actin tension are required for optimal migratory velocity and consistency. Furthermore, Plexin-B2 mechanosensitive function requires a bendable extracellular ring structure and affects membrane internalization, permeability, phospholipid composition, as well as inner membrane surface charge. Together, our studies unveil a key element of membrane tension and mechanoelectrical coupling via Plexin-B2 that enables GBM cells to adapt to physical constraints and achieve polarized confined migration.
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4
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Garg R, Endzhievskaya S, Williamson M. B-type Plexins promote the GTPase activity of Ran to affect androgen receptor nuclear translocation in prostate cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1513-1523. [PMID: 37563360 PMCID: PMC10645588 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00655-6] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Resistance to anti-androgen therapy for metastatic prostate cancer is a major clinical problem. Sema3C promotes resistance to androgen withdrawal via its receptor, PlexinB1. Activation of PlexinB1 promotes the ligand-independent nuclear translocation of the androgen receptor (AR), which may contribute to resistance to androgen deprivation therapy. However, the mechanism by which PlexinB1 promotes nuclear translocation is unclear. We show here that PlexinB1 and B2 regulate nuclear import by acting as GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) for the small RasGTPase Ran, a key regulator of nuclear trafficking. Purified PlexinB1/B2 protein catalyses the hydrolysis of RanGTP, and mutations in the GAP domain of PlexinB1 inhibit this activity. Activation of PlexinB1/B2 with Sema4D decreases the levels of RanGTP, while PlexinB1 or B2 depletion increases the levels of activated Ran in the cell. Ran directly associates with B-type plexins in a GTP-dependent manner. Sema4D is internalised by endocytosis, and PlexinB1 and Ran display overlapping patterns of expression. Furthermore, Sema4D/PlexinB1-induced AR nuclear translocation is dependent on the GAP domain of PlexinB1 and is blocked by the expression of non-functional Ran mutants. Depletion of PlexinB1 decreases the nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio of Ran, indicative of a higher RanGTP/GDP ratio. Plexins may promote the growth of androgen-independent prostate cancer through their activity as RanGAPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Garg
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sofia Endzhievskaya
- Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Magali Williamson
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
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5
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Dai L, Shen KF, Zhang CQ. Plexin-mediated neuronal development and neuroinflammatory responses in the nervous system. Histol Histopathol 2023; 38:1239-1248. [PMID: 37170703 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plexins are a large family of single-pass transmembrane proteins that mediate semaphorin signaling in multiple systems. Plexins were originally characterized for their role modulating cytoskeletal activity to regulate axon guidance during nervous system development. Thereafter, different semaphorin-plexin complexes were identified in the nervous system that have diverse functions in neurons, astrocytes, glia, oligodendrocytes, and brain derived-tumor cells, providing unexpected but meaningful insights into the biological activities of this protein family. Here, we review the overall structure and relevant downstream signaling cascades of plexins. We consider the current knowledge regarding the function of semaphorin-plexin cascades in the nervous system, including the most recent data regarding their roles in neuronal development, neuroinflammation, and glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Dai
- Center for Neurointelligence, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kai-Feng Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Research Center of PLA, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun-Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Research Center of PLA, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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6
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Lu H, Pan Y, Ruan Y, Zhu C, Hassan HM, Gao J, Gao J, Fan L, Liang X, Wang H, Ying S, Chen Q. Biomarker Discovery for Early Diagnosis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Using High-Throughput Enhanced Quantitative Plasma Proteomics. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:3200-3212. [PMID: 37624590 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) has been increasing over the last 50 years worldwide. A higher rate of overdiagnosis in indolent thyroid lesions has resulted in unnecessary treatment. An accurate detection of TC at an early stage is highly demanded. We aim to develop an enhanced isobaric labeling-based high-throughput plasma quantitative proteomics to identify biomarkers in a discovery cohort. Selected candidates were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the training cohort and validation cohort. In total, 1063 proteins were quantified, and 129 proteins were differentially expressed between patients and healthy subjects. Serum levels of ISG15 and PLXNB2 were significantly elevated in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) or thyroid adenoma, compared to healthy subjects (p < 0.001) and patients with nodular goiter (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of combined markers (ISG15 and PLXNB2) significantly distinguished PTC from healthy control (HC) subjects. Similar differentiations were also found between thyroid adenoma and HC subjects. Notably, this combined marker could distinguish stage-I PTC from HC subjects (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.872). Our results revealed that ISG15 and PLXNB2 are independent diagnostic biomarkers for PTC and thyroid adenoma, showing a promising value for the early detection of PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongsheng Lu
- Department of Pathology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yin Pan
- Surgical Oncology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yanyun Ruan
- Precision Medicine Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Chumeng Zhu
- Precision Medicine Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Hozeifa M Hassan
- Precision Medicine Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Junshun Gao
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Junli Gao
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Lilong Fan
- Department of Pathology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Xi Liang
- Precision Medicine Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Hong Wang
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, 198 Qidi Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou 311202, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Shenpeng Ying
- Department of Radiotherapy, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Qi Chen
- Precision Medicine Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 Donghai Avenue, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, P. R. China
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7
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Bai Y, Zhao F, Wu T, Chen F, Pang X. Actin polymerization and depolymerization in developing vertebrates. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1213668. [PMID: 37745245 PMCID: PMC10515290 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1213668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Development is a complex process that occurs throughout the life cycle. F-actin, a major component of the cytoskeleton, is essential for the morphogenesis of tissues and organs during development. F-actin is formed by the polymerization of G-actin, and the dynamic balance of polymerization and depolymerization ensures proper cellular function. Disruption of this balance results in various abnormalities and defects or even embryonic lethality. Here, we reviewed recent findings on the structure of G-actin and F-actin and the polymerization of G-actin to F-actin. We also focused on the functions of actin isoforms and the underlying mechanisms of actin polymerization/depolymerization in cellular and organic morphogenesis during development. This information will extend our understanding of the role of actin polymerization in the physiologic or pathologic processes during development and may open new avenues for developing therapeutics for embryonic developmental abnormalities or tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Bai
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangchun Chen
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Pang
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
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8
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Breau MA, Trembleau A. Chemical and mechanical control of axon fasciculation and defasciculation. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 140:72-81. [PMID: 35810068 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.06.014] [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: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Neural networks are constructed through the development of robust axonal projections from individual neurons, which ultimately establish connections with their targets. In most animals, developing axons assemble in bundles to navigate collectively across various areas within the central nervous system or the periphery, before they separate from these bundles in order to find their specific targets. These processes, called fasciculation and defasciculation respectively, were thought for many years to be controlled chemically: while guidance cues may attract or repulse axonal growth cones, adhesion molecules expressed at the surface of axons mediate their fasciculation. Recently, an additional non-chemical parameter, the mechanical longitudinal tension of axons, turned out to play a role in axon fasciculation and defasciculation, through zippering and unzippering of axon shafts. In this review, we present an integrated view of the currently known chemical and mechanical control of axon:axon dynamic interactions. We highlight the facts that the decision to cross or not to cross another axon depends on a combination of chemical, mechanical and geometrical parameters, and that the decision to fasciculate/defasciculate through zippering/unzippering relies on the balance between axon:axon adhesion and their mechanical tension. Finally, we speculate about possible functional implications of zippering-dependent axon shaft fasciculation, in the collective migration of axons, and in the sorting of subpopulations of axons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Anne Breau
- Sorbonne Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR 7622), Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (IBPS), Developmental Biology Laboratory, Paris, France
| | - Alain Trembleau
- Sorbonne Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR8246), Inserm U1130, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (IBPS), Neuroscience Paris Seine (NPS), Paris, France.
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9
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Schuster E, Dashzeveg N, Jia Y, Golam K, Zhang T, Hoffman A, Zhang Y, Zheng C, Ramos E, Taftaf R, Shennawy LE, Scholten D, Kitata RB, Adorno-Cruz V, Reduzzi C, Spahija S, Xu R, Siziopikou KP, Platanias LC, Shah A, Gradishar WJ, Cristofanilli M, Tsai CF, Shi T, Liu H. Computational ranking-assisted identification of Plexin-B2 in homotypic and heterotypic clustering of circulating tumor cells in breast cancer metastasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.10.536233. [PMID: 37090580 PMCID: PMC10120645 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.10.536233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is the cause of over 90% of all deaths associated with breast cancer, yet the strategies to predict cancer spreading based on primary tumor profiles and therefore prevent metastasis are egregiously limited. As rare precursor cells to metastasis, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in multicellular clusters in the blood are 20-50 times more likely to produce viable metastasis than single CTCs. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying various CTC clusters, such as homotypic tumor cell clusters and heterotypic tumor-immune cell clusters, are yet to be fully elucidated. Combining machine learning-assisted computational ranking with experimental demonstration to assess cell adhesion candidates, we identified a transmembrane protein Plexin- B2 (PB2) as a new therapeutic target that drives the formation of both homotypic and heterotypic CTC clusters. High PB2 expression in human primary tumors predicts an unfavorable distant metastasis-free survival and is enriched in CTC clusters compared to single CTCs in advanced breast cancers. Loss of PB2 reduces formation of homotypic tumor cell clusters as well as heterotypic tumor-myeloid cell clusters in triple-negative breast cancer. Interactions between PB2 and its ligand Sema4C on tumor cells promote homotypic cluster formation, and PB2 binding with Sema4A on myeloid cells (monocytes) drives heterotypic CTC cluster formation, suggesting that metastasizing tumor cells hijack the PB2/Sema family axis to promote lung metastasis in breast cancer. Additionally, using a global proteomic analysis, we identified novel downstream effectors of the PB2 pathway associated with cancer stemness, cell cycling, and tumor cell clustering in breast cancer. Thus, PB2 is a novel therapeutic target for preventing new metastasis.
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10
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Brundu S, Napolitano V, Franzolin G, Lo Cascio E, Mastrantonio R, Sardo G, Cascardi E, Verginelli F, Sarnataro S, Gambardella G, Pisacane A, Arcovito A, Boccaccio C, Comoglio PM, Giraudo E, Tamagnone L. Mutated axon guidance gene PLXNB2 sustains growth and invasiveness of stem cells isolated from cancers of unknown primary. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e16104. [PMID: 36722641 PMCID: PMC9994481 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic changes sustaining the development of cancers of unknown primary (CUP) remain elusive. The whole-exome genomic profiling of 14 rigorously selected CUP samples did not reveal specific recurring mutation in known driver genes. However, by comparing the mutational landscape of CUPs with that of most other human tumor types, it emerged a consistent enrichment of changes in genes belonging to the axon guidance KEGG pathway. In particular, G842C mutation of PlexinB2 (PlxnB2) was predicted to be activating. Indeed, knocking down the mutated, but not the wild-type, PlxnB2 in CUP stem cells resulted in the impairment of self-renewal and proliferation in culture, as well as tumorigenic capacity in mice. Conversely, the genetic transfer of G842C-PlxnB2 was sufficient to promote CUP stem cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in mice. Notably, G842C-PlxnB2 expression in CUP cells was associated with basal EGFR phosphorylation, and EGFR blockade impaired the viability of CUP cells reliant on the mutated receptor. Moreover, the mutated PlxnB2 elicited CUP cell invasiveness, blocked by EGFR inhibitor treatment. In sum, we found that a novel activating mutation of the axon guidance gene PLXNB2 sustains proliferative autonomy and confers invasive properties to stem cells isolated from cancers of unknown primary, in EGFR-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Virginia Napolitano
- Department of Life Sciences and Public HealthUniversità Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRomeItaly
| | | | - Ettore Lo Cascio
- Department of Biotechnological Sciences and Intensive CareUniversità Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRomeItaly
| | - Roberta Mastrantonio
- Department of Life Sciences and Public HealthUniversità Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRomeItaly
| | | | - Eliano Cascardi
- Candiolo Cancer InstituteFPO‐IRCCSTurinItaly
- Department of Medical SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | | | | | - Gennaro Gambardella
- Telethon Institute of Genetic and MedicinePozzuoliItaly
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information TechnologyUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | | | - Alessandro Arcovito
- Department of Biotechnological Sciences and Intensive CareUniversità Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRomeItaly
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli (FPG) – IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Carla Boccaccio
- Candiolo Cancer InstituteFPO‐IRCCSTurinItaly
- Department of OncologyUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | | | - Enrico Giraudo
- Candiolo Cancer InstituteFPO‐IRCCSTurinItaly
- Department of Science and Drug TechnologyUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Luca Tamagnone
- Department of Life Sciences and Public HealthUniversità Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRomeItaly
- Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli (FPG) – IRCCSRomeItaly
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11
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Tassinari R, Olivi E, Cavallini C, Taglioli V, Zannini C, Marcuzzi M, Fedchenko O, Ventura C. Mechanobiology: A landscape for reinterpreting stem cell heterogeneity and regenerative potential in diseased tissues. iScience 2022; 26:105875. [PMID: 36647385 PMCID: PMC9839966 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical forces play a fundamental role in cellular dynamics from the molecular level to the establishment of complex heterogeneity in somatic and stem cells. Here, we highlight the role of cytoskeletal mechanics and extracellular matrix in generating mechanical forces merging into oscillatory synchronized patterns. We discuss how cellular mechanosensing/-transduction can be modulated by mechanical forces to control tissue metabolism and set the basis for nonpharmacologic tissue rescue. Control of bone anabolic activity and repair, as well as obesity prevention, through a fine-tuning of the stem cell morphodynamics are highlighted. We also discuss the use of mechanical forces in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and heart failure through the fine modulation of stem cell metabolic activity and regenerative potential. We finally focus on the new landscape of delivering specific mechanical stimuli to reprogram tissue-resident stem cells and enhance our self-healing potential, without the need for stem cell or tissue transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena Olivi
- ELDOR LAB, via Corticella 183, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Martina Marcuzzi
- NIBB, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, via Corticella 183, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Oleksandra Fedchenko
- NIBB, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, via Corticella 183, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Ventura
- ELDOR LAB, via Corticella 183, 40129 Bologna, Italy,NIBB, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, via Corticella 183, 40129 Bologna, Italy,Corresponding author
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12
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The PNUTS-PP1 complex acts as an intrinsic barrier to herpesvirus KSHV gene expression and replication. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7447. [PMID: 36460671 PMCID: PMC9718767 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35268-4] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Control of RNA Polymerase II (pol II) elongation is a critical component of gene expression in mammalian cells. The PNUTS-PP1 complex controls elongation rates, slowing pol II after polyadenylation sites to promote termination. The Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) co-opts pol II to express its genes, but little is known about its regulation of pol II elongation. We identified PNUTS as a suppressor of a KSHV reporter gene in a genome-wide CRISPR screen. PNUTS depletion enhances global KSHV gene expression and overall viral replication. Mechanistically, PNUTS requires PP1 interaction, binds viral RNAs downstream of polyadenylation sites, and restricts transcription readthrough of viral genes. Surprisingly, PNUTS also represses productive elongation at the 5´ ends of the KSHV reporter and the KSHV T1.4 RNA. From these data, we conclude that PNUTS' activity constitutes an intrinsic barrier to KSHV replication likely by suppressing pol II elongation at promoter-proximal regions.
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Stem Cell Strategies in Promoting Neuronal Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232112996. [PMID: 36361786 PMCID: PMC9657320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112996] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with a significant medical and socioeconomic impact. To date, no effective treatment is available that can enable neuronal regeneration and recovery of function at the damaged level. This is thought to be due to scar formation, axonal degeneration and a strong inflammatory response inducing a loss of neurons followed by a cascade of events that leads to further spinal cord damage. Many experimental studies demonstrate the therapeutic effect of stem cells in SCI due to their ability to differentiate into neuronal cells and release neurotrophic factors. Therefore, it appears to be a valid strategy to use in the field of regenerative medicine. This review aims to provide an up-to-date summary of the current research status, challenges, and future directions for stem cell therapy in SCI models, providing an overview of this constantly evolving and promising field.
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Abstract
The ribonuclease A (RNase A) family is one of the best-characterized vertebrate-specific proteins. In humans, eight catalytically active RNases (numbered 1–8) have been identified and have unique tissue distributions. Apart from the digestion of dietary RNA, a broad range of biological actions, including the regulation of intra- or extra-cellular RNA metabolism as well as antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activities, neurotoxicity, promotion of cell proliferation, anti-apoptosis, and immunomodulatory abilities, have been recently reported for the members of this family. Based on multiple biological roles, RNases are found to participate in the pathogenic processes of many diseases, such as infection, immune dysfunction, neurodegeneration, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. This review summarizes the available data on the human RNase A family and illustrates the significant roles of the eight canonical RNases in health and disease, for stimulating further basic research and development of ideas on the potential solutions for disease diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desen Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315020, China,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Chenjie Han
- Institute of Environmental Medicine and Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China,Undergraduate Program in Public Health, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jinghao Sheng
- Institute of Environmental Medicine and Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China,Corresponding author
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Zhou Y, Guo S, Botchway BOA, Zhang Y, Jin T, Liu X. Muscone Can Improve Spinal Cord Injury by Activating the Angiogenin/Plexin-B2 Axis. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5891-5901. [PMID: 35809154 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02948-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating neurological disorder that usually damages sensorimotor and autonomic functions. Signaling pathways can play a key role in the repair process of SCI. The plexin-B2 acts as a receptor for angiogenin and mediates ribosomal RNA transcription, influencing cell survival and proliferation. Protein kinase B serine/threonine kinase interacts with angiogenin to form a positive feedback effect. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor can induce angiogenin nuclear translocation. Moreover, the BDNF can promote the secretion of angiogenin. Interestingly, all of them can activate the angiogenin/plexin-B2 axis. Muscone has anti-inflammatory and proliferative features as it can inhibit nuclear transcription factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and activate the angiogenin/plexin-B2 axis, thus being significant agent in the SCI repair process. Herein, we review the potential mechanism of angiogenin/plexin-B2 axis activation and the role of muscone in SCI treatment. Muscone may attenuate inflammatory responses and promote neuronal regeneration after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Shitian Guo
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Benson O A Botchway
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Tian Jin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Xuehong Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, 312000, China.
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Du H, Xu Y, Zhu L. Role of Semaphorins in Ischemic Stroke. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:848506. [PMID: 35350431 PMCID: PMC8957939 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.848506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the major causes of neurological morbidity and mortality in the world. Although the management of ischemic stroke has been improved significantly, it still imposes a huge burden on the health and property. The integrity of the neurovascular unit (NVU) is closely related with the prognosis of ischemic stroke. Growing evidence has shown that semaphorins, a family of axon guidance cues, play a pivotal role in multiple pathophysiological processes in NVU after ischemia, such as regulating the immune system, angiogenesis, and neuroprotection. Modulating the NVU function via semaphorin signaling has a potential to develop a novel therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. We, therefore, review recent progresses on the role of semphorin family members in neurons, glial cells and vasculature after ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaping Du
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Suzhou Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology of Jiangsu Province, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Li Zhu,
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