1
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Mosa FES, Alqahtani MA, El-Ghiaty MA, El-Mahrouk SR, Barakat K, El-Kadi AOS. Modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ponatinib and tofacitinib). Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 759:110088. [PMID: 38992456 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Ponatinib and tofacitinib, established kinase inhibitors and FDA-approved for chronic myeloid leukemia and rheumatoid arthritis, are recently undergoing investigation in diverse clinical trials for potential repurposing. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a transcription factor influencing a spectrum of physiological and pathophysiological activities, stands as a therapeutic target for numerous diseases. This study employs molecular modelling tools and in vitro assays to identify ponatinib and tofacitinib as AhR ligands, elucidating their binding and molecular interactions in the AhR PAS-B domain. Molecular docking analyses revealed that ponatinib and tofacitinib occupy the central pocket within the primary cavity, similar to AhR agonists 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD) and (benzo[a]pyrene) B[a]P. Our simulations also showed that these compounds exhibit good stability, stabilizing many hot spots within the PAS-B domain, including the Dα-Eα loop, which serves as a regulatory element for the binding pocket. Binding energy calculations highlighted ponatinib's superior predicted affinity, revealing F295 as a crucial residue in maintaining strong interaction with the two compounds. Our in vitro data suggest that ponatinib functions as an AhR antagonist, blocking the downstream signaling of AhR pathway induced by TCDD and B[a]P. Additionally, both tofacitinib and ponatinib cause impairment in AhR-regulated CYP1A1 enzyme activity induced by potent AhR agonists. This study unveils ponatinib and tofacitinib as potential modulators of AhR, providing valuable insights into their therapeutic roles in AhR-associated diseases and enhancing our understanding of the intricate relationship between kinase inhibitors and AhR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farag E S Mosa
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mohammed A Alqahtani
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mahmoud A El-Ghiaty
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sara R El-Mahrouk
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Khaled Barakat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ayman O S El-Kadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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2
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Xu X, Closson JD, Marcelino LP, Favaro DC, Silvestrini ML, Solazzo R, Chong LT, Gardner KH. Identification of Small Molecule Ligand Binding Sites On and In the ARNT PAS-B Domain. J Biol Chem 2024:107606. [PMID: 39059491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107606] [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: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors are challenging to target with small molecule inhibitors due to their structural plasticity and lack of catalytic sites. Notable exceptions include naturally ligand-regulated transcription factors, including our prior work with the HIF-2 transcription factor, showing that small molecule binding within an internal pocket of the HIF-2α PAS-B domain can disrupt its interactions with its dimerization partner, ARNT. Here, we explore the feasibility of targeting small molecules to the analogous ARNT PAS-B domain itself, potentially opening a promising route to modulate several ARNT-mediated signaling pathways. Using solution NMR fragment screening, we previously identified several compounds that bind ARNT PAS-B and, in certain cases, antagonize ARNT association with the TACC3 transcriptional coactivator. However, these ligands have only modest binding affinities, complicating characterization of their binding sites. We address this challenge by combining NMR, MD simulations, and ensemble docking to identify ligand-binding 'hotspots' on and within the ARNT PAS-B domain. Our data indicate that the two ARNT/TACC3 inhibitors, KG-548 and KG-655, bind to a β-sheet surface implicated in both HIF-2 dimerization and coactivator recruitment. Furthermore, while KG-548 binds exclusively to the β-sheet surface, KG-655 can additionally bind within a water-accessible internal cavity in ARNT PAS-B. Finally, KG-279, while not a coactivator inhibitor, exemplifies ligands that preferentially bind only to the internal cavity. All three ligands promoted ARNT PAS-B homodimerization, albeit to varying degrees. Taken together, our findings provide a comprehensive overview of ARNT PAS-B ligand-binding sites and may guide the development of more potent coactivator inhibitors for cellular and functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingjian Xu
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY; Ph.D Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, NY
| | - Joseph D Closson
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY; Ph.D Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, NY
| | | | - Denize C Favaro
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Riccardo Solazzo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lillian T Chong
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin H Gardner
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New York, New York, NY; Ph.D. Programs in Biochemistry, Chemistry and Biology, The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, NY.
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3
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Jindra M, Tumova S, Bittova L, Tuma R, Sedlak D. Agonist-dependent action of the juvenile hormone receptor. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2024; 65:101234. [PMID: 39025365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2024.101234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Juvenile hormone (JH) signaling is realized at the gene regulatory level by receptors of the bHLH-PAS transcription factor family. The sesquiterpenoid hormones and their synthetic mimics are agonist ligands of a unique JH receptor (JHR) protein, methoprene-tolerant (MET). Upon binding an agonist to its PAS-B cavity, MET dissociates from a cytoplasmic chaperone complex including HSP83 and concomitantly switches to a bHLH-PAS partner taiman, forming a nuclear, transcriptionally active JHR heterodimer. This course of events resembles the vertebrate aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), activated by a plethora of endogenous and synthetic compounds. Like in AHR, the pliable PAS-B cavity of MET adjusts to diverse ligands and binds them through similar mechanisms. Despite recent progress, we only begin to discern agonist-induced conformational shifts within the PAS-B domain, with the ultimate goal of understanding how these localized changes stimulate the assembly of the active JHR complex and, thus, fully grasp the mechanism of JHR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Jindra
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic.
| | - Sarka Tumova
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Bittova
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Tuma
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - David Sedlak
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
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4
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Xu X, Closson J, Marcelino LP, Favaro DC, Silvestrini ML, Solazzo R, Chong LT, Gardner KH. Identification of Small Molecule Ligand Binding Sites On and In the ARNT PAS-B Domain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.03.565595. [PMID: 37961463 PMCID: PMC10635134 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.03.565595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factors are generally challenging to target with small molecule inhibitors due to their structural plasticity and lack of catalytic sites. Notable exceptions include several naturally ligand-regulated transcription factors, including our prior work with the heterodimeric HIF-2 transcription factor which showed that small molecule binding within an internal pocket of the HIF-2α PAS-B domain can disrupt its interactions with its dimerization partner, ARNT. Here, we explore the feasibility of similarly targeting small molecules to the analogous ARNT PAS-B domain itself, potentially opening a promising route to simultaneously modulate several ARNT-mediated signaling pathways. Using solution NMR screening of an in-house fragment library, we previously identified several compounds that bind ARNT PAS-B and, in certain cases, antagonize ARNT association with the TACC3 transcriptional coactivator. However, these ligands have only modest binding affinities, complicating characterization of their binding sites. We address this challenge by combining NMR, MD simulations, and ensemble docking to identify ligand-binding 'hotspots' on and within the ARNT PAS-B domain. Our data indicate that the two ARNT/TACC3 inhibitors, KG-548 and KG-655, bind to a β-sheet surface implicated in both HIF-2 dimerization and coactivator recruitment. Furthermore, while KG-548 binds exclusively to the β-sheet surface, KG-655 can additionally bind within a water-accessible internal cavity in ARNT PAS-B. Finally, KG-279, while not a coactivator inhibitor, exemplifies ligands that preferentially bind only to the internal cavity. All three ligands promoted ARNT PAS-B homodimerization, albeit to varying degrees. Taken together, our findings provide a comprehensive overview of ARNT PAS-B ligand-binding sites and may guide the development of more potent coactivator inhibitors for cellular and functional studies.
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5
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Mosa FES, Alqahtani MA, El-Ghiaty MA, Barakat K, El-Kadi AOS. Identifying novel aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulators from clinically approved drugs: In silico screening and In vitro validation. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 754:109958. [PMID: 38499054 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.109958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) functions as a vital ligand-activated transcription factor, governing both physiological and pathophysiological processes. Notably, it responds to xenobiotics, leading to a diverse array of outcomes. In the context of drug repurposing, we present here a combined approach of utilizing structure-based virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations. This approach aims to identify potential AhR modulators from Drugbank repository of clinically approved drugs. By focusing on the AhR PAS-B binding pocket, our screening protocol included binding affinities calculations, complex stability, and interactions within the binding site as a filtering method. Comprehensive evaluations of all DrugBank small molecule database revealed ten promising hits. This included flibanserin, butoconazole, luliconazole, naftifine, triclabendazole, rosiglitazone, empagliflozin, benperidol, nebivolol, and zucapsaicin. Each exhibiting diverse binding behaviors and remarkably very low binding free energy. Experimental studies further illuminated their modulation of AhR signaling, and showing that they are consistently reducing AhR activity, except for luliconazole, which intriguingly enhances the AhR activity. This work demonstrates the possibility of using computational modelling as a quick screening tool to predict new AhR modulators from extensive drug libraries. Importantly, these findings hold immense therapeutic potential for addressing AhR-associated disorders. Consequently, it offers compelling prospects for innovative interventions through drug repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farag E S Mosa
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mohammed A Alqahtani
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mahmoud A El-Ghiaty
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Khaled Barakat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Ayman O S El-Kadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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6
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Kim K. The Role of Endocrine Disruption Chemical-Regulated Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activity in the Pathogenesis of Pancreatic Diseases and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3818. [PMID: 38612627 PMCID: PMC11012155 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) serves as a ligand-activated transcription factor crucial for regulating fundamental cellular and molecular processes, such as xenobiotic metabolism, immune responses, and cancer development. Notably, a spectrum of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) act as agonists or antagonists of AHR, leading to the dysregulation of pivotal cellular and molecular processes and endocrine system disruption. Accumulating evidence suggests a correlation between EDC exposure and the onset of diverse pancreatic diseases, including diabetes, pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer. Despite this association, the mechanistic role of AHR as a linchpin molecule in EDC exposure-related pathogenesis of pancreatic diseases and cancer remains unexplored. This review comprehensively examines the involvement of AHR in EDC exposure-mediated regulation of pancreatic pathogenesis, emphasizing AHR as a potential therapeutic target for the pathogenesis of pancreatic diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyounghyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72225, USA
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7
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Tomkiewicz C, Coumoul X, Nioche P, Barouki R, Blanc EB. Costs of molecular adaptation to the chemical exposome: a focus on xenobiotic metabolism pathways. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220510. [PMID: 38310928 PMCID: PMC10838638 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Organisms adapt to their environment through different pathways. In vertebrates, xenobiotics are detected, metabolized and eliminated through the inducible xenobiotic-metabolizing pathways (XMP) which can also generate reactive toxic intermediates. In this review, we will discuss the impacts of the chemical exposome complexity on the balance between detoxication and side effects. There is a large discrepancy between the limited number of proteins involved in these pathways (few dozens) and the diversity and complexity of the chemical exposome (tens of thousands of chemicals). Several XMP proteins have a low specificity which allows them to bind and/or metabolize a large number of chemicals. This leads to undesired consequences, such as cross-inhibition, inefficient metabolism, release of toxic intermediates, etc. Furthermore, several XMP proteins have endogenous functions that may be disrupted upon exposure to exogenous chemicals. The gut microbiome produces a very large number of metabolites that enter the body and are part of the chemical exposome. It can metabolize xenobiotics and either eliminate them or lead to toxic derivatives. The complex interactions between chemicals of different origins will be illustrated by the diverse roles of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor which binds and transduces the signals of a large number of xenobiotics, microbiome metabolites, dietary chemicals and endogenous compounds. This article is part of the theme issue 'Endocrine responses to environmental variation: conceptual approaches and recent developments'.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xavier Coumoul
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm unit UMRS 1124, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Nioche
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm unit UMRS 1124, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Robert Barouki
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm unit UMRS 1124, 75006 Paris, France
- Hôpital Necker Enfants malades, AP-HP, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Etienne B. Blanc
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm unit UMRS 1124, 75006 Paris, France
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8
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Sharma D, Partch CL. PAS Dimerization at the Nexus of the Mammalian Circadian Clock. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168341. [PMID: 37924861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168341] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms are genetically encoded molecular clocks for internal biological timekeeping. Organisms from single-cell bacteria to humans use these clocks to adapt to the external environment and synchronize their physiology and behavior to solar light/dark cycles. Although the proteins that constitute the molecular 'cogs' and give rise to circadian rhythms are now known, we still lack a detailed understanding of how these proteins interact to generate and sustain the ∼24-hour circadian clock. Structural studies have helped to expand the architecture of clock proteins and have revealed the abundance of the only well-defined structured regions in the mammalian clock called Per-ARNT-Sim (PAS) domains. PAS domains are modular, evolutionarily conserved sensory and signaling domains that typically mediate protein-protein interactions. In the mammalian circadian clock, PAS domains modulate homo and heterodimerization of several core clock proteins that assemble into transcription factors or repressors. This review will focus on the functional importance of the PAS domains in the circadian clock from a biophysical and biochemical standpoint and describe their roles in clock protein interactions and circadian timekeeping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sharma
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - Carrie L Partch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Cruz, CA, United States; Center for Circadian Biology, University of California San Diego, CA, United States.
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9
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Daffern N, Radhakrishnan I. Per-ARNT-Sim (PAS) Domains in Basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH)-PAS Transcription Factors and Coactivators: Structures and Mechanisms. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168370. [PMID: 37992889 PMCID: PMC10922228 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
PAS domains are ubiquitous in biology. They perform critically important roles in sensing and transducing a wide variety of environmental signals, and through their ability to bind small-molecule ligands, have emerged as targets for therapeutic intervention. Here, we discuss our current understanding of PAS domain structure and function in the context of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH)-PAS transcription factors and coactivators. Unlike the bHLH-PAS domains of transcription factors, those of the steroid receptor coactivator (SRC) family are poorly characterized. Recent progress for this family and for the broader bHLH-PAS proteins suggest that these domains are ripe for deeper structural and functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Daffern
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Ishwar Radhakrishnan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
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10
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Bonati L, Motta S, Callea L. The AhR Signaling Mechanism: A Structural Point of View. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168296. [PMID: 37797832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) is a well-known sensor of xenobiotics; moreover, it is considered a promising drug target as it is involved in the regulation of many patho-physiological processes. For these reasons the study of its ligand-activated transcription mechanism has stimulated several studies for over twenty years. In this review we highlight the key role of molecular structural information in understanding the different steps of the signaling mechanism. The architecture of the AhR cytosolic complex, encompassing the hsp90 chaperone protein and the XAP2 and p23 co-chaperones, has become available in the last year thanks to Cryo-EM experiments. The structure of the AhR ligand-binding (PAS-B) domain has remained elusive for a long time; it has been predicted by homology modelling, based on known PAS systems, and its ligand-bound forms were modelled through ligand molecular docking. Although very recently some structural information on this domain has become available, considerable efforts are still needed to determine the binding geometries of the AhR key ligands by experimental high-resolution studies. On the other hand, the dimeric structure of AhR with the ARNT protein, bound to the specific DNA responsive element, was partially determined by X-ray crystallography and it was completed by homology modelling. On the whole the current structural knowledge of the main protein complexes that form over the AhR mechanism opens the way to confirm and further investigate the main steps of the proposed ligand-activated transcription mechanism of the AhR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bonati
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milan, Italy.
| | - Stefano Motta
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milan, Italy.
| | - Lara Callea
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milan, Italy.
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11
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Kwong HS, Paloni M, Grandvuillemin L, Sirounian S, Ancelin A, Lai-Kee-Him J, Grimaldi M, Carivenc C, Lancey C, Ragan TJ, Hesketh EL, Balaguer P, Barducci A, Gruszczyk J, Bourguet W. Structural Insights into the Activation of Human Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor by the Environmental Contaminant Benzo[a]pyrene and Structurally Related Compounds. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168411. [PMID: 38135181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor belonging to the bHLH/PAS protein family and responding to hundreds of natural and chemical substances. It is primarily involved in the defense against chemical insults and bacterial infections or in the adaptive immune response, but also in the development of pathological conditions ranging from inflammatory to neoplastic disorders. Despite its prominent roles in many (patho)physiological processes, the lack of high-resolution structural data has precluded for thirty years an in-depth understanding of the structural mechanisms underlying ligand-binding specificity, promiscuity and activation of AHR. We recently reported a cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of human AHR bound to the natural ligand indirubin, the chaperone Hsp90 and the co-chaperone XAP2 that provided the first experimental visualization of its ligand-binding PAS-B domain. Here, we report a 2.75 Å resolution structure of the AHR complex bound to the environmental pollutant benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). The structure substantiates the existence of a bipartite PAS-B ligand-binding pocket with a geometrically constrained primary binding site controlling ligand binding specificity and affinity, and a secondary binding site contributing to the binding promiscuity of AHR. We also report a docking study of B[a]P congeners that validates the B[a]P-bound PAS-B structure as a suitable model for accurate computational ligand binding assessment. Finally, comparison of our agonist-bound complex with the recently reported structures of mouse and fruit fly AHR PAS-B in different activation states suggests a ligand-induced loop conformational change potentially involved in the regulation of AHR function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hok-Sau Kwong
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Matteo Paloni
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Loïc Grandvuillemin
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Savannah Sirounian
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Aurélie Ancelin
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Josephine Lai-Kee-Him
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Marina Grimaldi
- IRCM (Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier), Univ Montpellier, Inserm, ICM, Montpellier, France
| | - Coralie Carivenc
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Claudia Lancey
- Leicester Institute of Structural & Chemical Biology and Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Lancaster Rd, Leicester LE1 7HB, UK
| | - Timothy J Ragan
- Leicester Institute of Structural & Chemical Biology and Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Lancaster Rd, Leicester LE1 7HB, UK
| | - Emma L Hesketh
- Leicester Institute of Structural & Chemical Biology and Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Lancaster Rd, Leicester LE1 7HB, UK
| | - Patrick Balaguer
- IRCM (Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier), Univ Montpellier, Inserm, ICM, Montpellier, France
| | - Alessandro Barducci
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Jakub Gruszczyk
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France.
| | - William Bourguet
- CBS (Centre de Biologie Structurale), Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, Montpellier, France.
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12
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Li L, He G, Shi M, Zhu J, Cheng Y, Chen Y, Chen J, Xue Q. Edaravone dexborneol ameliorates cognitive impairment by regulating the NF-κB pathway through AHR and promoting microglial polarization towards the M2 phenotype in mice with bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS). Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 957:176036. [PMID: 37673366 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is one of the most important causes of stroke and vascular dementia, so exploring effective treatment modalities for CSVD is warranted. This study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of Edaravone dexborneol (C.EDA) in a CSVD model. Mice with CSVD showed distinct cognitive decline, as assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM). Pathological staining verified leakage across the blood‒brain barrier (BBB), microglial proliferation, neuronal loss and demyelination. Western blot analysis demonstrated that M1 microglia dominated prophase and released proinflammatory molecules; the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was found to participate in modulating nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signalling activation through tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6 (TRAF6). C.EDA treatment resulted in the polarization of microglia from the M1 to the M2 phenotype. Mice sequentially treated with C.EDA exhibited a significant improvement in cognitive function; expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokines and modulatory proteins AHR and TRAF6 was upregulated, while the levels of pNF-κBp65 and pIΚBα were downregulated. C.EDA promoted microglial activation towards the M2 phenotype by upregulating AHR expression, which prevented TRAF6 ubiquitination, promoted NF-κB RelA/p65 protein degradation and inhibited subsequent NF-κB phosphorylation. Mechanistically, the anti-inflammatory effect of C.EDA alleviated neuronal loss and myelin damage, while at the functional level, C.EDA improved cognitive function and thus showed good application prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, 215006, China; Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Guojun He
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Mingyu Shi
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Juehua Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, 215006, China
| | - Yongqing Cheng
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, 224005, China
| | - Qun Xue
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, 215006, China.
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13
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Chong ZX, Yong CY, Ong AHK, Yeap SK, Ho WY. Deciphering the roles of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in regulating carcinogenesis. Toxicology 2023; 495:153596. [PMID: 37480978 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-dependent receptor that belongs to the superfamily of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors. The activation of the canonical AHR signaling pathway is known to induce the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, facilitating the detoxification metabolism in the human body. Additionally, AHR could interact with various signaling pathways such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), nuclear factor ekappa B (NF-κβ), estrogen receptor (ER), and androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathways. Over the past 30 years, several studies have reported that various chemical, physical, or biological agents, such as tobacco, hydrocarbon compounds, industrial and agricultural chemical wastes, drugs, UV, viruses, and other toxins, could affect AHR expression or activity, promoting cancer development. Thus, it is valuable to overview how these factors regulate AHR-mediated carcinogenesis. Current findings have reported that many compounds could act as AHR ligands to drive the expressions of AHR-target genes, such as CYP1A1, CYP1B1, MMPs, and AXL, and other targets that exert a pro-proliferation or anti-apoptotic effect, like XIAP. Furthermore, some other physical and chemical agents, such as UV and 3-methylcholanthrene, could promote AHR signaling activities, increasing the signaling activities of a few oncogenic pathways, such as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathways. Understanding how various factors regulate AHR-mediated carcinogenesis processes helps clinicians and scientists plan personalized therapeutic strategies to improve anti-cancer treatment efficacy. As many studies that have reported the roles of AHR in regulating carcinogenesis are preclinical or observational clinical studies that did not explore the detailed mechanisms of how different chemical, physical, or biological agents promote AHR-mediated carcinogenesis processes, future studies should focus on conducting large-scale and functional studies to unravel the underlying mechanism of how AHR interacts with different factors in regulating carcinogenesis processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiong Chong
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chean Yeah Yong
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Alan Han Kiat Ong
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
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14
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Daffern N, Kelley K, Villegas JA, Radhakrishnan I. Prostaglandins as Candidate Ligands for a Per-ARNT-Sim (PAS) Domain of Steroid Receptor Coactivator 1 (SRC1). BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.13.548854. [PMID: 37502902 PMCID: PMC10369948 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.13.548854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Steroid receptor coactivators (SRCs) comprise a family of three paralogous proteins commonly recruited by eukaryotic transcription factors. Each SRC harbors two tandem Per-ARNT-Sim (PAS) domains that are broadly distributed that bind small molecules and regulate interactions. Using computational docking, solution NMR, mass spectrometry, and molecular dynamics simulations, we show that the SRC1 PAS-B domain can bind to certain prostaglandins (PGs) either non-covalently to a surface that overlaps with the site used to engage transcription factors or covalently to a single, specific, conserved cysteine residue next to a solvent accessible hydrophobic pocket. This pocket is in proximity to the canonical transcription factor binding site, but on the opposite side of the domain, suggesting a potential mode of regulating transcriptional activator-coactivator interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Daffern
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208
| | - Kade Kelley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208
| | - José A. Villegas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Ishwar Radhakrishnan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208
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15
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Hanieh H, Bani Ismail M, Alfwuaires MA, Ibrahim HIM, Farhan M. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor as an Anticancer Target: An Overview of Ten Years Odyssey. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28103978. [PMID: 37241719 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28103978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-activated transcription factor belonging to the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH)/per-Arnt-sim (PAS) superfamily, is traditionally known to mediate xenobiotic metabolism. It is activated by structurally diverse agonistic ligands and regulates complicated transcriptional processes through its canonical and non-canonical pathways in normal and malignant cells. Different classes of AhR ligands have been evaluated as anticancer agents in different cancer cells and exhibit efficiency, which has thrust AhR into the limelight as a promising molecular target. There is strong evidence demonstrating the anticancer potential of exogenous AhR agonists including synthetic, pharmaceutical, and natural compounds. In contrast, several reports have indicated inhibition of AhR activity by antagonistic ligands as a potential therapeutic strategy. Interestingly, similar AhR ligands exert variable anticancer or cancer-promoting potential in a cell- and tissue-specific mode of action. Recently, ligand-mediated modulation of AhR signaling pathways and the associated tumor microenvironment is emerging as a potential approach for developing cancer immunotherapeutic drugs. This article reviews advances of AhR in cancer research covering publication from 2012 to early 2023. It summarizes the therapeutic potential of various AhR ligands with an emphasis on exogenous ligands. It also sheds light on recent immunotherapeutic strategies involving AhR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Hanieh
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aqaba Medical Sciences University, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
- International Medical Research Center (iMReC), Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Bani Ismail
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aqaba Medical Sciences University, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Manal A Alfwuaires
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hairul-Islam M Ibrahim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahdi Farhan
- International Medical Research Center (iMReC), Aqaba 77110, Jordan
- Department of Drug Development, UniTechPharma, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
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16
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Lin L, Liu Y, Chen L, Dai Y, Xia Y. Discovery of Norisoboldine Analogue III 11 as a Novel and Potent Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Agonist for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. J Med Chem 2023; 66:6869-6888. [PMID: 37154394 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcript factor, belonging to the basic helix-loop-helix-Per-ARNT-SIM family, is closely associated with health and diseases. Targeting AhR is an emerging therapeutic strategy for various diseases. Norisoboldine (NOR), which is the main alkaloid of Linderae Radix, has been known to activate AhR. Unfortunately, the oral bioavailability (F) of NOR is only 2.49%. To improve the chemical efficacy and bioavailability, we designed and synthesized NOR analogues. Using various in vitro assays, 2-methoxy-5,6,6a,7-tetrahydro-4H-dibenzo[de,g]quinoline-9-ol (III11) was discovered as a potent AhR agonist. Compound III11 enhanced the expression of AhR downstream target genes, triggered AhR nuclear translocation, and promoted differentiation of regulatory T cells. More importantly, III11 exhibited good bioavailability (F = 87.40%) and remarkable therapeutic effects in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis at a dosage of 10 mg/kg. These findings may serve as a reference for the design of novel AhR agonists against immune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lin
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yongmin Liu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yue Dai
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yufeng Xia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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17
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Wen Z, Zhang Y, Zhang B, Hang Y, Xu L, Chen Y, Xie Q, Zhao Q, Zhang L, Li G, Zhao B, Sun F, Zhai Y, Zhu Y. Cryo-EM structure of the cytosolic AhR complex. Structure 2023; 31:295-308.e4. [PMID: 36649707 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an important ligand-activated transcription factor involved in the regulation of various important physiological functions. Here, we report the cryo-EM structures of the Hsp90-AhR-p23 complex with or without bound XAP2, where the structure of the mouse AhR PAS-B domain is resolved. A highly conserved bridge motif of AhR is responsible for the interaction with the Hsp90 dimeric lumen. The ligand-free AhR PAS-B domain is attached to the Hsp90 dimer and is stabilized in the complex with bound XAP2. In addition, the DE-loop and a group of conserved pocket inner residues in the AhR PAS-B domain are found to be important for ligand binding. These results reveal the structural basis of the biological functions of AhR. Moreover, the protein purification method presented here allows the isolation of stable mouse AhR protein, which could be used to develop high-sensitivity biosensors for environmental pollutant detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuoling Wen
- National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuebin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Reaction Dynamics, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Beirong Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
| | - Yumo Hang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yangsheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Qunhui Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Qun Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
| | - Guohui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Reaction Dynamics, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Fei Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Center for Biological Imaging, Core Facilities for Protein Science, Institute of Biophysics, CAS, Beijing, China.
| | - Yujia Zhai
- National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yun Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
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18
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Patil NY, Friedman JE, Joshi AD. Role of Hepatic Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. RECEPTORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 2:1-15. [PMID: 37284280 PMCID: PMC10240927 DOI: 10.3390/receptors2010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Numerous nuclear receptors including farnesoid X receptor, liver X receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, pregnane X receptor, hepatic nuclear factors have been extensively studied within the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Following the first description of the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in the 1970s and decades of research which unveiled its role in toxicity and pathophysiological processes, the functional significance of AhR in NAFLD has not been completely decoded. Recently, multiple research groups have utilized a plethora of in vitro and in vivo models that mimic NAFLD pathology to investigate the functional significance of AhR in fatty liver disease. This review provides a comprehensive account of studies describing both the beneficial and possible detrimental role of AhR in NAFLD. A plausible reconciliation for the paradox indicating AhR as a 'double-edged sword' in NAFLD is discussed. Finally, understanding AhR ligands and their signaling in NAFLD will facilitate us to probe AhR as a potential drug target to design innovative therapeutics against NAFLD in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Y. Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
| | - Jacob E. Friedman
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
| | - Aditya D. Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
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