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Zhao Y, Li R, Wang W, Zhang H, Zhang Q, Jiang J, Wang Y, Li Y, Guan F, Nie Y. O-GlcNAc signaling: Implications for stress-induced adaptive response pathway in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217101. [PMID: 38969156 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217101] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of tumor cells, non-tumor cells, extracellular matrix, and signaling molecules, which can contribute to tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. In response to starvation, hypoxia, and drug treatments, tumor cells undergo a variety of deleterious endogenous stresses, such as hypoxia, DNA damage, and oxidative stress. In this context, to survive the difficult situation, tumor cells evolve multiple conserved adaptive responses, including metabolic reprogramming, DNA damage checkpoints, homologous recombination, up-regulated antioxidant pathways, and activated unfolded protein responses. In the last decades, the protein O-GlcNAcylation has emerged as a crucial causative link between glucose metabolism and tumor progression. Here, we discuss the relevant pathways that regulate the above responses. These pathways are adaptive adjustments induced by endogenous stresses in cells. In addition, we systematically discuss the role of O-GlcNAcylation-regulated stress-induced adaptive response pathways (SARPs) in TME remodeling, tumor progression, and treatment resistance. We also emphasize targeting O-GlcNAcylation through compounds that modulate OGT or OGA activity to inhibit tumor progression. It seems that targeting O-GlcNAcylated proteins to intervene in TME may be a novel approach to improve tumor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Renlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Weizhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Haohao Zhang
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 710054, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiujin Zhang
- Second Clinical Medicine College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, China
| | - Jialu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Feng Guan
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China; State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Virard F, Giraud S, Bonnet M, Magadoux L, Martin L, Pham TH, Skafi N, Deneuve S, Frem R, Villoutreix BO, Sleiman NH, Reboulet J, Merabet S, Chaptal V, Chaveroux C, Hussein N, Aznar N, Fenouil T, Treilleux I, Saintigny P, Ansieau S, Manié S, Lebecque S, Renno T, Coste I. Targeting ERK-MYD88 interaction leads to ERK dysregulation and immunogenic cancer cell death. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7037. [PMID: 39147750 PMCID: PMC11327251 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51275-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The quest for targeted therapies is critical in the battle against cancer. The RAS/MAP kinase pathway is frequently implicated in neoplasia, with ERK playing a crucial role as the most distal kinase in the RAS signaling cascade. Our previous research demonstrated that the interaction between ERK and MYD88, an adaptor protein in innate immunity, is crucial for RAS-dependent transformation and cancer cell survival. In this study, we examine the biological consequences of disrupting the ERK-MYD88 interaction through the ERK D-recruitment site (DRS), while preserving ERK's kinase activity. Our results indicate that EI-52, a small-molecule benzimidazole targeting ERK-MYD88 interaction induces an HRI-mediated integrated stress response (ISR), resulting in immunogenic apoptosis specific to cancer cells. Additionally, EI-52 exhibits anti-tumor efficacy in patient-derived tumors and induces an anti-tumor T cell response in mice in vivo. These findings suggest that inhibiting the ERK-MYD88 interaction may be a promising therapeutic approach in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Virard
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Faculté d'Odontologie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Stéphane Giraud
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Center for Drug Discovery and Development, Synergy Lyon Cancer Foundation, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Mélanie Bonnet
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Léa Magadoux
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Laetitia Martin
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Center for Drug Discovery and Development, Synergy Lyon Cancer Foundation, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Thuy Ha Pham
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Najwa Skafi
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Sophie Deneuve
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Rita Frem
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Bruno O Villoutreix
- Université de Paris, NeuroDiderot, Inserm, Hôpital Robert Debré, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Nawal Hajj Sleiman
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, UMR 5242-CNRS/ENSL, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Jonathan Reboulet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, UMR 5242-CNRS/ENSL, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Samir Merabet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, UMR 5242-CNRS/ENSL, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Vincent Chaptal
- Drug Resistance & Membrane Proteins group, Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry Laboratory (CNRS UMR 5086), University of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Cédric Chaveroux
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Nader Hussein
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Aznar
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Tanguy Fenouil
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Faculté de Médecine, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Pierre Saintigny
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Stéphane Ansieau
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Serge Manié
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Serge Lebecque
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Faculté de Médecine, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Toufic Renno
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.
| | - Isabelle Coste
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1052-CNRS UMR5286, Lyon Cancer Research Center, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.
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Qie S, Xiong H, Liu Y, Yan C, Wang Y, Tian L, Wang C, Sang N. Stanniocalcin 2 governs cancer cell adaptation to nutrient insufficiency through alleviation of oxidative stress. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:567. [PMID: 39107307 PMCID: PMC11303387 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06961-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumours often endure nutrient insufficiency during progression. How tumour cells adapt to temporal and spatial nutrient insufficiency remains unclear. We previously identified STC2 as one of the most upregulated genes in cells exposed to nutrient insufficiency by transcriptome screening, indicating the potential of STC2 in cellular adaptation to nutrient insufficiency. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying STC2 induction by nutrient insufficiency and subsequent adaptation remain elusive. Here, we report that STC2 protein is dramatically increased and secreted into the culture media by Gln-/Glc- deprivation. STC2 promoter contains cis-elements that are activated by ATF4 and p65/RelA, two transcription factors activated by a variety of cellular stress. Biologically, STC2 induction and secretion promote cell survival but attenuate cell proliferation during nutrient insufficiency, thus switching the priority of cancer cells from proliferation to survival. Loss of STC2 impairs tumour growth by inducing both apoptosis and necrosis in mouse xenografts. Mechanistically, under nutrient insufficient conditions, cells have increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lack of STC2 further elevates ROS levels that lead to increased apoptosis. RNA-Seq analyses reveal STC2 induction suppresses the expression of monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), a mitochondrial membrane enzyme that produces ROS. Moreover, a negative correlation between STC2 and MAOB levels is also identified in human tumour samples. Importantly, the administration of recombinant STC2 to the culture media effectively suppresses MAOB expression as well as apoptosis, suggesting STC2 functions in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Taken together, our findings indicate that nutrient insufficiency induces STC2 expression, which in turn governs the adaptation of cancer cells to nutrient insufficiency through the maintenance of redox homoeostasis, highlighting the potential of STC2 as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Qie
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Tianjin), Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.
| | - Haijuan Xiong
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Tianjin), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Yaqi Liu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Tianjin), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenhui Yan
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Tianjin), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Yalei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Tianjin), Tianjin, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Department of Cancer Biology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chenguang Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nianli Sang
- Department of Biology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Wang X, Gong W, Xiong X, Jia X, Xu J. Asparagine: A key metabolic junction in targeted tumor therapy. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107292. [PMID: 39002867 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Nutrient bioavailability in the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in tumor proliferation and metastasis. Among these nutrients, glutamine is a key substance that promotes tumor growth and proliferation, and its downstream metabolite asparagine is also crucial in tumors. Studies have shown that when glutamine is exhausted, tumor cells can rely on asparagine to sustain their growth. Given the reliance of tumor cell proliferation on asparagine, restricting its bioavailability has emerged as promising strategy in cancer treatment. For instance, the use of asparaginase, an enzyme that depletes asparagine, has been one of the key chemotherapies for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, tumor cells can adapt to asparagine restriction, leading to reduced chemotherapy efficacy, and the mechanisms by which different genetically altered tumors are sensitized or adapted to asparagine restriction vary. We review the sources of asparagine and explore how limiting its bioavailability impacts the progression of specific genetically altered tumors. It is hoped that by targeting the signaling pathways involved in tumor adaptation to asparagine restriction and certain factors within these pathways, the issue of drug resistance can be addressed. Importantly, these strategies offer precise therapeutic approaches for genetically altered cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Weijian Gong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xueyou Xiong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xuemei Jia
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
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5
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Dai H, Wu B, Ge Y, Hao Y, Zhou L, Hong R, Zhang J, Jiang W, Zhang Y, Li H, Zhang L. Deubiquitylase OTUD3 regulates integrated stress response to suppress progression and sorafenib resistance of liver cancer. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114487. [PMID: 38996071 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114487] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The integrated stress response (ISR) is activated in response to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli, playing a role in tumor progression and drug resistance. The regulatory role and mechanism of ISR in liver cancer, however, remain largely unexplored. Here, we demonstrate that OTU domain-containing protein 3 (OTUD3) is a deubiquitylase of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), antagonizing ISR and suppressing liver cancer. OTUD3 decreases interactions between eIF2α and the kinase EIF2ΑK3 by removing K27-linked polyubiquitylation on eIF2α. OTUD3 deficiency in mice leads to enhanced ISR and accelerated progression of N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma. Additionally, decreased OTUD3 expression associated with elevated eIF2α phosphorylation correlates with the progression of human liver cancer. Moreover, ISR activation due to decreased OTUD3 expression renders liver cancer cells resistant to sorafenib, while the combined use of the ISR inhibitor ISRIB significantly improves their sensitivity to sorafenib. Collectively, these findings illuminate the regulatory mechanism of ISR in liver cancer and provide a potential strategy to counteract sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmiao Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecules (CAS), National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Bo Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yingwei Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yang Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Lijie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ruolin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jinhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Wenli Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; School of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei 071002, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China; School of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei 071002, China
| | - Hongchang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China.
| | - Lingqiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 100850, China.
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Xiao C, Li Y, Liu Y, Dong R, He X, Lin Q, Zang X, Wang K, Xia Y, Kong L. Overcoming Cancer Persister Cells by Stabilizing the ATF4 Promoter G-quadruplex. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401748. [PMID: 38994891 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Persister cells (PS) selected for anticancer therapy have been recognized as a significant contributor to the development of treatment-resistant malignancies. It is found that imposing glutamine restriction induces the generation of PS, which paradoxically bestows heightened resistance to glutamine restriction treatment by activating the integrated stress response and initiating the general control nonderepressible 2-activating transcription factor 4-alanine, serine, cysteine-preferring transporter 2 (GCN2-ATF4-ASCT2) axis. Central to this phenomenon is the stress-induced ATF4 translational reprogramming. Unfortunately, directly targeting ATF4 protein has proven to be a formidable challenge because of its flat surface. Nonetheless, a G-quadruplex structure located within the promoter region of ATF4 (ATF4-G4) is uncovered and resolved, which functions as a transcriptional regulator and can be targeted by small molecules. The investigation identifies the natural compound coptisine (COP) as a potent binder that interacts with and stabilizes ATF4-G4. For the first time, the high-resolution structure of the COP-ATF4-G4 complex is determined. The formation of this stable complex disrupts the interaction between transcription factor AP-2 alpha (TFAP2A) and ATF4-G4, resulting in a substantial reduction in intracellular ATF4 levels and the eventual death of cancer cells. These seminal findings underscore the potential of targeting the ATF4-G4 structure to yield significant therapeutic advantages within the realm of persister cancer cells induced by glutamine-restricted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengmei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yipu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yushuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ruifang Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiaoyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qing Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xin Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Kaibo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuanzheng Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of China Pharmaceutical University, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Lingyi Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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Anastas V, Chavdoula E, La Ferlita A, Soysal B, Cosentini I, Nigita G, Kearse MG, Tsichlis PN. KDM2B is required for ribosome biogenesis and its depletion unequally affects mRNA translation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.22.595403. [PMID: 38826406 PMCID: PMC11142201 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.22.595403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
KDM2B is a JmjC domain lysine demethylase, which promotes cell immortalization, stem cell self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Here we employed a multi-omics strategy to address its role in ribosome biogenesis and mRNA translation. These processes are required to sustain cell proliferation, an important cancer hallmark. Contrary to earlier observations, KDM2B promotes ribosome biogenesis by stimulating the transcription of genes encoding ribosome biogenesis factors and ribosomal proteins, particularly those involved in the biogenesis of the 40S ribosomal subunits. Knockdown of KDM2B impaired the assembly of the small and large subunit processomes, as evidenced by specific defects in pre-ribosomal RNA processing. The final outcome was a decrease in the rate of ribosome assembly and in the abundance of ribosomes, and inhibition of mRNA translation. The inhibition of translation was distributed unequally among mRNAs with different features, suggesting that mRNA-embedded properties influence how mRNAs interpret ribosome abundance. This study identified a novel mechanism contributing to the regulation of translation and provided evidence for a rich biology elicited by a pathway that depends on KDM2B, and perhaps other regulators of translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vollter Anastas
- Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Genetics, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Evangelia Chavdoula
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Burak Soysal
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ilaria Cosentini
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Michael G Kearse
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Philip N Tsichlis
- Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Genetics, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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Malnassy G, Ziolkowski L, Macleod KF, Oakes SA. The Integrated Stress Response in Pancreatic Development, Tissue Homeostasis, and Cancer. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)04931-X. [PMID: 38768690 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Present in all eukaryotic cells, the integrated stress response (ISR) is a highly coordinated signaling network that controls cellular behavior, metabolism, and survival in response to diverse stresses. The ISR is initiated when any 1 of 3 stress-sensing kinases (protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase [PERK], general control non-derepressible 2 [GCN2], double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase [PKR], heme-regulated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α kinase [HRI]) becomes activated to phosphorylate the protein translation initiation factor eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), shifting gene expression toward a comprehensive rewiring of cellular machinery to promote adaptation. Although the ISR has been shown to play an important role in the homeostasis of multiple tissues, evidence suggests that it is particularly crucial for the development and ongoing health of the pancreas. Among the most synthetically dynamic tissues in the body, the exocrine and endocrine pancreas relies heavily on the ISR to rapidly adjust cell function to meet the metabolic demands of the organism. The hardwiring of the ISR into normal pancreatic functions and adaptation to stress may explain why it is a commonly used pro-oncogenic and therapy-resistance mechanism in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Here we review what is known about the key roles that the ISR plays in the development, homeostasis, and neoplasia of the pancreas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Malnassy
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Leah Ziolkowski
- The Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinoi; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kay F Macleod
- The Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinoi; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Scott A Oakes
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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9
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Levy T, Voeltzke K, Hruby L, Alasad K, Bas Z, Snaebjörnsson M, Marciano R, Scharov K, Planque M, Vriens K, Christen S, Funk CM, Hassiepen C, Kahler A, Heider B, Picard D, Lim JKM, Stefanski A, Bendrin K, Vargas-Toscano A, Kahlert UD, Stühler K, Remke M, Elkabets M, Grünewald TGP, Reichert AS, Fendt SM, Schulze A, Reifenberger G, Rotblat B, Leprivier G. mTORC1 regulates cell survival under glucose starvation through 4EBP1/2-mediated translational reprogramming of fatty acid metabolism. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4083. [PMID: 38744825 PMCID: PMC11094136 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48386-y] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Energetic stress compels cells to evolve adaptive mechanisms to adjust their metabolism. Inhibition of mTOR kinase complex 1 (mTORC1) is essential for cell survival during glucose starvation. How mTORC1 controls cell viability during glucose starvation is not well understood. Here we show that the mTORC1 effectors eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding proteins 1/2 (4EBP1/2) confer protection to mammalian cells and budding yeast under glucose starvation. Mechanistically, 4EBP1/2 promote NADPH homeostasis by preventing NADPH-consuming fatty acid synthesis via translational repression of Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase 1 (ACC1), thereby mitigating oxidative stress. This has important relevance for cancer, as oncogene-transformed cells and glioma cells exploit the 4EBP1/2 regulation of ACC1 expression and redox balance to combat energetic stress, thereby supporting transformation and tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo. Clinically, high EIF4EBP1 expression is associated with poor outcomes in several cancer types. Our data reveal that the mTORC1-4EBP1/2 axis provokes a metabolic switch essential for survival during glucose starvation which is exploited by transformed and tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Levy
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Kai Voeltzke
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Laura Hruby
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Khawla Alasad
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Zuelal Bas
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marteinn Snaebjörnsson
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor-Boveri-Institute, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
- Division of Tumor Metabolism and Microenvironment, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ran Marciano
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Katerina Scharov
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mélanie Planque
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kim Vriens
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefan Christen
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cornelius M Funk
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Hassiepen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alisa Kahler
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Beate Heider
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Picard
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German cancer consortium (DKTK) partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jonathan K M Lim
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anja Stefanski
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center (BMFZ), Heinrich Heine University, Medical Faculty, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katja Bendrin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andres Vargas-Toscano
- Clinic for Neurosurgery, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Radiation Oncology, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulf D Kahlert
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral, Vascular- and Transplantation Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke-University, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center (BMFZ), Heinrich Heine University, Medical Faculty, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marc Remke
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German cancer consortium (DKTK) partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Moshe Elkabets
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel
| | - Thomas G P Grünewald
- Division of Translational Pediatric Sarcoma Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Hopp Children's Cancer Center (KiTZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas S Reichert
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Fendt
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Almut Schulze
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Theodor-Boveri-Institute, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
- Division of Tumor Metabolism and Microenvironment, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guido Reifenberger
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German cancer consortium (DKTK) partner site Essen/Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Barak Rotblat
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
| | - Gabriel Leprivier
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Düsseldorf and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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10
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Liu X, Ren B, Fang Y, Ren J, Wang X, Gu M, Zhou F, Xiao R, Luo X, You L, Zhao Y. Comprehensive analysis of bulk and single-cell transcriptomic data reveals a novel signature associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid metabolism, and liver metastasis in pancreatic cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:393. [PMID: 38685045 PMCID: PMC11057100 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05158-y] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy with high probability of recurrence and distant metastasis. Liver metastasis is the predominant metastatic mode developed in most pancreatic cancer cases, which seriously affects the overall survival rate of patients. Abnormally activated endoplasmic reticulum stress and lipid metabolism reprogramming are closely related to tumor growth and metastasis. This study aims to construct a prognostic model based on endoplasmic reticulum stress and lipid metabolism for pancreatic cancer, and further explore its correlation with tumor immunity and the possibility of immunotherapy. METHODS Transcriptomic and clinical data are acquired from TCGA, ICGC, and GEO databases. Potential prognostic genes were screened by consistent clustering and WGCNA methods, and the whole cohort was randomly divided into training and testing groups. The prognostic model was constructed by machine learning method in the training cohort and verified in the test, TCGA and ICGC cohorts. The clinical application of this model and its relationship with tumor immunity were analyzed, and the relationship between endoplasmic reticulum stress and intercellular communication was further explored. RESULTS A total of 92 characteristic genes related to endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid metabolism and liver metastasis were identified in pancreatic cancer. We established and validated a prognostic model for pancreatic cancer with 7 signatures, including ADH1C, APOE, RAP1GAP, NPC1L1, P4HB, SOD2, and TNFSF10. This model is considered to be an independent prognosticator and is a more accurate predictor of overall survival than age, gender, and stage. TIDE score was increased in high-risk group, while the infiltration levels of CD8+ T cells and M1 macrophages were decreased. The number and intensity of intercellular communication were increased in the high ER stress group. CONCLUSIONS We constructed and validated a novel prognostic model for pancreatic cancer, which can also be used as an instrumental variable to predict the prognosis and immune microenvironment. In addition, this study revealed the effect of ER stress on cell-cell communication in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Minzhi Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Feihan Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiling Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiyuan Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Jasani N, Xu X, Posorske B, Kim Y, Vera O, Tsai KY, DeNicola GM, Karreth FA. MAPK-mediated PHGDH induction is essential for melanoma formation and represents an actionable vulnerability. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.11.589139. [PMID: 38659816 PMCID: PMC11042198 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.11.589139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Overexpression of PHGDH, the rate-limiting enzyme in the serine synthesis pathway, promotes melanomagenesis, melanoma cell proliferation, and survival of metastases in serine-low environments such as the brain. While PHGDH amplification explains PHGDH overexpression in a subset of melanomas, we find that PHGDH levels are universally increased in melanoma cells due to oncogenic BRAFV600E promoting PHGDH transcription through mTORC1-mediated translation of ATF4. Importantly, PHGDH expression was critical for melanomagenesis as depletion of PHGDH in genetic mouse models blocked melanoma formation. Despite BRAFV600E-mediated upregulation, PHGDH was further induced by exogenous serine restriction. Surprisingly, BRAFV600E inhibition diminished serine restriction-mediated PHGDH expression by preventing ATF4 induction, creating a potential vulnerability whereby melanoma cells could be specifically starved of serine by combining BRAFV600E inhibition with exogenous serine restriction. Indeed, we show that this combination promoted cell death in vitro and attenuated melanoma growth in vivo. This study identified a melanoma cell-specific PHGDH-dependent vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Jasani
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Xiaonan Xu
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Benjamin Posorske
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Yumi Kim
- Department of Metabolism and Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Olga Vera
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Kenneth Y. Tsai
- Department of Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Department of Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Gina M. DeNicola
- Department of Metabolism and Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Florian A. Karreth
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
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12
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Tate EW, Soday L, de la Lastra AL, Wang M, Lin H. Protein lipidation in cancer: mechanisms, dysregulation and emerging drug targets. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:240-260. [PMID: 38424304 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Protein lipidation describes a diverse class of post-translational modifications (PTMs) that is regulated by over 40 enzymes, targeting more than 1,000 substrates at over 3,000 sites. Lipidated proteins include more than 150 oncoproteins, including mediators of cancer initiation, progression and immunity, receptor kinases, transcription factors, G protein-coupled receptors and extracellular signalling proteins. Lipidation regulates the physical interactions of its protein substrates with cell membranes, regulating protein signalling and trafficking, and has a key role in metabolism and immunity. Targeting protein lipidation, therefore, offers a unique approach to modulate otherwise undruggable oncoproteins; however, the full spectrum of opportunities to target the dysregulation of these PTMs in cancer remains to be explored. This is attributable in part to the technological challenges of identifying the targets and the roles of protein lipidation. The early stage of drug discovery for many enzymes in the pathway contrasts with efforts for drugging similarly common PTMs such as phosphorylation and acetylation, which are routinely studied and targeted in relevant cancer contexts. Here, we review recent advances in identifying targetable protein lipidation pathways in cancer, the current state-of-the-art in drug discovery, and the status of ongoing clinical trials, which have the potential to deliver novel oncology therapeutics targeting protein lipidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward W Tate
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
| | - Lior Soday
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hening Lin
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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13
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Mariner BL, Rodriguez AS, Heath OC, McCormick MA. Induction of proteasomal activity in mammalian cells by lifespan-extending tRNA synthetase inhibitors. GeroScience 2024; 46:1755-1773. [PMID: 37749371 PMCID: PMC10828360 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00938-8] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently shown that multiple tRNA synthetase inhibitors can greatly increase lifespan in multiple models by acting through the conserved transcription factor ATF4. Here, we show that these compounds, and several others of the same class, can greatly upregulate mammalian ATF4 in cells in vitro, in a dose dependent manner. Further, RNASeq analysis of these cells pointed toward changes in protein turnover. In subsequent experiments here we show that multiple tRNA synthetase inhibitors can greatly upregulate activity of the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) in cells in an ATF4-dependent manner. The UPS plays an important role in the turnover of many damaged or dysfunctional proteins in an organism. Increasing UPS activity has been shown to enhance the survival of Huntington's disease cell models, but there are few known pharmacological enhancers of the UPS. Additionally, we see separate ATF4 dependent upregulation of macroautophagy upon treatment with tRNA synthetase inhibitors. Protein degradation is an essential cellular process linked to many important human diseases of aging such as Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. These drugs' ability to enhance proteostasis more broadly could have wide-ranging implications in the treatment of important age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaise L Mariner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
- Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism Center of Biomedical Research Excellence, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Antonio S Rodriguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Olivia C Heath
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Mark A McCormick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
- Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism Center of Biomedical Research Excellence, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
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14
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Tang H, Kang R, Liu J, Tang D. ATF4 in cellular stress, ferroptosis, and cancer. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1025-1041. [PMID: 38383612 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03681-x] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), a member of the ATF/cAMP response element-binding (CREB) family, plays a critical role as a stress-induced transcription factor. It orchestrates cellular responses, particularly in the management of endoplasmic reticulum stress, amino acid deprivation, and oxidative challenges. ATF4's primary function lies in regulating gene expression to ensure cell survival during stressful conditions. However, when considering its involvement in ferroptosis, characterized by severe lipid peroxidation and pronounced endoplasmic reticulum stress, the ATF4 pathway can either inhibit or promote ferroptosis. This intricate relationship underscores the complexity of cellular responses to varying stress levels. Understanding the connections between ATF4, ferroptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress holds promise for innovative cancer therapies, especially in addressing apoptosis-resistant cells. In this review, we provide an overview of ATF4, including its structure, modifications, and functions, and delve into its dual role in both ferroptosis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Tang
- DAMP Laboratory, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Kang
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Jiao Liu
- DAMP Laboratory, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong, China.
| | - Daolin Tang
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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15
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Wu D, Liang J. Activating transcription factor 4: a regulator of stress response in human cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1370012. [PMID: 38601083 PMCID: PMC11004295 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1370012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is an adaptive response regulator of metabolic and oxidative homeostasis. In response to cellular stress, ATF4 is activated and functions as a regulator to promote cell adaptation for survival. As a transcriptional regulator, ATF4 also widely participates in the regulation of amino acid metabolism, autophagy, redox homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Moreover, ATF4 is associated with the initiation and progression of glioblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer. This review primarily aims to elucidate the functions of ATF4 and its role in multiple cancer contexts. This review proposes potential therapeutic targets for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jie Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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16
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Qie S, Xiong H, Liu Y, Yan C, Wang Y, Tian L, Wang C, Sang N. Stanniocalcin 2 governs cancer cell adaptation to nutrient insufficiency through alleviation of oxidative stress. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3904465. [PMID: 38464261 PMCID: PMC10925426 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3904465/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumours often endure nutrient insufficiency during progression. How tumour cells adapt to temporal and spatial nutrient insufficiency remains unclear. We previously identified STC2 as one of the most upregulated genes in cells exposed to nutrient insufficiency by transcriptome screening, indicating the potential of STC2 in cellular adaptation to nutrient insufficiency. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying STC2 induction by nutrient insufficiency and subsequent adaptation remain elusive. Here, we report that STC2 protein is dramatically increased and secreted into the culture media by Gln-/Glc-deprivation. STC2 promoter contains cis-elements that are activated by ATF4 and p65/RelA, two transcription factors activated by a variety of cellular stress. Biologically, STC2 induction and secretion promote cell survival but attenuate cell proliferation during nutrient insufficiency, thus switching the priority of cancer cells from proliferation to survival. Loss of STC2 impairs tumour growth by inducing both apoptosis and necrosis in mouse xenografts. Mechanistically, under nutrient insufficient conditions, cells have increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lack of STC2 further elevates ROS levels that lead to increased apoptosis. RNA-Seq analyses reveal STC2 induction suppresses the expression of monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), a mitochondrial membrane enzyme that produces ROS. Moreover, a negative correlation between STC2 and MAOB levels is also identified in human tumour samples. Importantly, the administration of recombinant STC2 to the culture media effectively suppresses MAOB expression as well as apoptosis, suggesting STC2 functions in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Taken together, our findings indicate that nutrient insufficiency induces STC2 expression, which in turn governs the adaptation of cancer cells to nutrient insufficiency through the maintenance of redox homeostasis, highlighting the potential of STC2 as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Qie
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital
| | - Haijuan Xiong
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital
| | - Yaqi Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital
| | - Chenhui Yan
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital
| | | | - Lifeng Tian
- Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University
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Cheng C, Yuan Y, Yuan F, Li X. Acute kidney injury: exploring endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated cell death. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1308733. [PMID: 38434710 PMCID: PMC10905268 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1308733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a global health problem, given its substantial morbidity and mortality rates. A better understanding of the mechanisms and factors contributing to AKI has the potential to guide interventions aimed at mitigating the risk of AKI and its subsequent unfavorable outcomes. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is an intrinsic protective mechanism against external stressors. ERS occurs when the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) cannot deal with accumulated misfolded proteins completely. Excess ERS can eventually cause pathological reactions, triggering various programmed cell death (autophagy, ferroptosis, apoptosis, pyroptosis). This article provides an overview of the latest research progress in deciphering the interaction between ERS and different programmed cell death. Additionally, the report consolidates insights into the roles of ERS in AKI and highlights the potential avenues for targeting ERS as a treatment direction toward for AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Cheng
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Emergency, Changsha Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Changsha Eighth Hospital), Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fang Yuan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Anti-Resistance Microbial Drugs, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Sapkota D, Wang D, Schreurs O, Vallenari EM, Pandey Dhakal S, Küntziger T, Toközlü BS, Utheim TP, Chaudhry FA. Investigation of Roles of SLC38A1 in Proliferation and Differentiation of Mouse Tongue Epithelium and Expression in Human Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:405. [PMID: 38254895 PMCID: PMC10814082 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aerobic glycolytic pathway, boosting lactate formation, and glutamine addiction are two hallmarks of cancer pathophysiology. Consistent with this, several cell membrane glutamine transporters, belonging to different solute carrier (SLC) families, have been shown to be upregulated in a cell-specific manner to furnish the cells with glutamine and glutamine-derived metabolic intermediates. Among them, the system A transporter Slc38a1 has a higher affinity for glutamine compared to other SLC transporters, and it undergoes highly multifaceted regulation at gene and protein levels. The current study aimed to investigate the functional role of Slc38a1 in the proliferation and maturation of the mouse tongue epithelium. Secondly, we aimed to examine the expression of SLC38A1 and its regulation in human tongue oral squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). Employing Slc38a1 wild-type and knockout mice, we showed that Slc38a1 was not directly linked to the regulation of the proliferation and differentiation of the mouse tongue epithelium. External transcriptomic datasets and Western blot analyses showed upregulation of SLC38A1 mRNA/protein in human OTSCC and oral cancer cell lines as compared to the corresponding controls. Further, an investigation of external datasets indicated that mechanisms other than the amplification of the SLC38A1 chromosomal locus or hypomethylation of the SLC38A1 promoter region might be important for the upregulation of SLC38A1 in OTSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak Sapkota
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Daxin Wang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Olaf Schreurs
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Evan M. Vallenari
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Sushma Pandey Dhakal
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Thomas Küntziger
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Burcu Sengüven Toközlü
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Oral Pathology, Faculty of Dentistry, Gazi University, Ankara 06510, Turkey
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Farrukh Abbas Chaudhry
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
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Chavdoula E, Anastas V, La Ferlita A, Aldana J, Carota G, Spampinato M, Soysal B, Cosentini I, Parashar S, Sircar A, Nigita G, Sehgal L, Freitas MA, Tsichlis PN. Transcriptional regulation of amino acid metabolism by KDM2B, in the context of ncPRC1.1 and in concert with MYC and ATF4. Metabolism 2024; 150:155719. [PMID: 37935302 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION KDM2B encodes a JmjC domain-containing histone lysine demethylase, which functions as an oncogene in several types of tumors, including TNBC. This study was initiated to address the cancer relevance of the results of our earlier work, which had shown that overexpression of KDM2B renders mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) resistant to oxidative stress by regulating antioxidant mechanisms. METHODS We mainly employed a multi-omics strategy consisting of RNA-Seq, quantitative TMT proteomics, Mass-spectrometry-based global metabolomics, ATAC-Seq and ChIP-seq, to explore the role of KDM2B in the resistance to oxidative stress and intermediary metabolism. These data and data from existing patient datasets were analyzed using bioinformatic tools, including exon-intron-split analysis (EISA), FLUFF and clustering analyses. The main genetic strategy we employed was gene silencing with shRNAs. ROS were measured by flow cytometry, following staining with CellROX and various metabolites were measured with biochemical assays, using commercially available kits. Gene expression was monitored with qRT-PCR and immunoblotting, as indicated. RESULTS The knockdown of KDM2B in basal-like breast cancer cell lines lowers the levels of GSH and sensitizes the cells to ROS inducers, GSH targeting molecules, and DUB inhibitors. To address the mechanism of GSH regulation, we knocked down KDM2B in MDA-MB-231 cells and we examined the effects of the knockdown, using a multi-omics strategy. The results showed that KDM2B, functioning in the context of ncPRC1.1, regulates a network of epigenetic and transcription factors, which control a host of metabolic enzymes, including those involved in the SGOC, glutamate, and GSH metabolism. They also showed that KDM2B enhances the chromatin accessibility and expression of MYC and ATF4, and that it binds in concert with MYC and ATF4, the promoters of a large number of transcriptionally active genes, including many, encoding metabolic enzymes. Additionally, MYC and ATF4 binding sites were enriched in genes whose accessibility depends on KDM2B, and analysis of a cohort of TNBCs expressing high or low levels of KDM2B, but similar levels of MYC and ATF4 identified a subset of MYC targets, whose expression correlates with the expression of KDM2B. Further analyses of basal-like TNBCs in the same cohort, revealed that tumors expressing high levels of all three regulators exhibit a distinct metabolic signature that carries a poor prognosis. CONCLUSIONS The present study links KDM2B, ATF4, and MYC in a transcriptional network that regulates the expression of multiple metabolic enzymes, including those that control the interconnected SGOC, glutamate, and GSH metabolic pathways. The co-occupancy of the promoters of many transcriptionally active genes, by all three factors, the enrichment of MYC binding sites in genes whose chromatin accessibility depends on KDM2B, and the correlation of the levels of KDM2B with the expression of a subset of MYC target genes in tumors that express similar levels of MYC, suggest that KDM2B regulates both the expression and the transcriptional activity of MYC. Importantly, the concerted expression of all three factors also defines a distinct metabolic subset of TNBCs with poor prognosis. Overall, this study identifies novel mechanisms of SGOC regulation, suggests novel KDM2B-dependent metabolic vulnerabilities in TNBC, and provides new insights into the role of KDM2B in the epigenetic regulation of transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Chavdoula
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Vollter Anastas
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States; Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Genetics, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Julian Aldana
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Giuseppe Carota
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mariarita Spampinato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Burak Soysal
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ilaria Cosentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sameer Parashar
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Anuvrat Sircar
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States; Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Lalit Sehgal
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States; Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Michael A Freitas
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Philip N Tsichlis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States.
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20
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Lan Z, Zhao L, Peng L, Wan L, Liu D, Tang C, Chen G, Liu Y, Liu H. EIF2α/ATF4 pathway enhances proliferation of mesangial cell via cyclin D1 during endoplasmic reticulum stress in IgA nephropathy. Clin Immunol 2023; 257:109840. [PMID: 37939913 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109840] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is an essential cause of kidney failure and end-stage kidney disease worldwide. Mesangial hypercellularity is an important characteristic of IgAN, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a series of stress responses to restore the function of endoplasmic reticulum. We aimed to explore how ER stress functioned in kidneys of IgAN. We first examined ER stress in IgAN kidneys in vivo and in vitro, by testing the levels of ER stress associated proteins (BIP, p-eIF2α and ATF4). Our results showed that ER stress was activated in IgAN patients, mice and cell model. ER stress activation was related to the distribution of IgA deposition and the degree of mesangial proliferation. To determine the role of ER stress in mesangial cell (MC) proliferation of IgAN, we then tested the levels of ER stress and MC proliferation (cyclin D1, cell viability and cell cycle) through inhibiting ER stress associated proteins. After inhibiting ER stress associated proteins, ER stress was inactivated and cell proliferation was inhibited in MCs. We also explored the correlation between ER stress in the glomerulus and the clinical outcomes of IgAN patients in a prospective study. Patients with lower expression of p-eIF2α or ATF4 had higher rates of hematuria remission, proteinuria remission and clinical remission. In summary, our work outlines that in IgAN, ER stress mediated by eIF2α/ATF4 pathway promotes MC proliferation via up-regulating the expression of cyclin D1. Furthermore, p-eIF2α and ATF4 in the glomerulus negatively correlate with the clinical remission of IgAN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Lan
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liang Peng
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lili Wan
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Di Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chengyuan Tang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guochun Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Stokes ME, Calvo V, Fujisawa S, Dudgeon C, Huang S, Ballal N, Shen L, Gasparek J, Betzenhauser M, Taylor SJ, Staschke KA, Rigby AC, Mulvihill MJ, Bose N, Lightcap ES, Surguladze D. PERK Inhibition by HC-5404 Sensitizes Renal Cell Carcinoma Tumor Models to Antiangiogenic Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:4870-4882. [PMID: 37733811 PMCID: PMC10690095 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tumors activate protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK, also called EIF2AK3) in response to hypoxia and nutrient deprivation as a stress-mitigation strategy. Here, we tested the hypothesis that inhibiting PERK with HC-5404 enhances the antitumor efficacy of standard-of-care VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKI). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN HC-5404 was characterized as a potent and selective PERK inhibitor, with favorable in vivo properties. Multiple renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumor models were then cotreated with both HC-5404 and VEGFR-TKI in vivo, measuring tumor volume across time and evaluating tumor response by protein analysis and IHC. RESULTS VEGFR-TKI including axitinib, cabozantinib, lenvatinib, and sunitinib induce PERK activation in 786-O RCC xenografts. Cotreatment with HC-5404 inhibited PERK in tumors and significantly increased antitumor effects of VEGFR-TKI across multiple RCC models, resulting in tumor stasis or regression. Analysis of tumor sections revealed that HC-5404 enhanced the antiangiogenic effects of axitinib and lenvatinib by inhibiting both new vasculature and mature tumor blood vessels. Xenografts that progress on axitinib monotherapy remain sensitive to the combination treatment, resulting in ∼20% tumor regression in the combination group. When tested across a panel of 18 RCC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, the combination induced greater antitumor effects relative to monotherapies. In this single animal study, nine out of 18 models responded with ≥50% tumor regression from baseline in the combination group. CONCLUSIONS By disrupting an adaptive stress response evoked by VEGFR-TKI, HC-5404 presents a clinical opportunity to improve the antitumor effects of well-established standard-of-care therapies in RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Leyi Shen
- HiberCell, Inc., New York City, New York
| | | | | | - Simon J. Taylor
- Drug Discovery, Pharmaron UK Ltd., Hoddesdon, Herts, United Kingdom
| | - Kirk A. Staschke
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, Indiana
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22
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Mariner BL, Felker DP, Cantergiani RJ, Peterson J, McCormick MA. Multiomics of GCN4-Dependent Replicative Lifespan Extension Models Reveals Gcn4 as a Regulator of Protein Turnover in Yeast. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16163. [PMID: 38003352 PMCID: PMC10671045 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216163] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
We have shown that multiple tRNA synthetase inhibitors can increase lifespan in both the nematode C. elegans and the budding yeast S. cerevisiae by acting through the conserved transcription factor Gcn4 (yeast)/ATF-4 (worms). To further understand the biology downstream from this conserved transcription factor in the yeast model system, we looked at two different yeast models known to have upregulated Gcn4 and GCN4-dependent increased replicative lifespan. These two models were rpl31aΔ yeast and yeast treated with the tRNA synthetase inhibitor borrelidin. We used both proteomic and RNAseq analysis of a block experimental design that included both of these models to identify GCN4-dependent changes in these two long-lived strains of yeast. Proteomic analysis of these yeast indicate that the long-lived yeast have increased abundances of proteins involved in amino acid biosynthesis. The RNAseq of these same yeast uncovered further regulation of protein degradation, identifying the differential expression of genes associated with autophagy and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). The data presented here further underscore the important role that GCN4 plays in the maintenance of protein homeostasis, which itself is an important hallmark of aging. In particular, the changes in autophagy and UPS-related gene expression that we have observed could also have wide-ranging implications for the understanding and treatment of diseases of aging that are associated with protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaise L. Mariner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (D.P.F.); (R.J.C.)
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Daniel P. Felker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (D.P.F.); (R.J.C.)
| | - Ryla J. Cantergiani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (D.P.F.); (R.J.C.)
| | - Jack Peterson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (D.P.F.); (R.J.C.)
| | - Mark A. McCormick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA (D.P.F.); (R.J.C.)
- Autophagy, Inflammation, and Metabolism Center of Biomedical Research Excellence, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
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23
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Wang H, Li Z, Tao Y, Ou S, Ye J, Ran S, Luo K, Guan Z, Xiang J, Yan G, Wang Y, Ma T, Yu S, Song Y, Huang R. Characterization of endoplasmic reticulum stress unveils ZNF703 as a promising target for colorectal cancer immunotherapy. J Transl Med 2023; 21:713. [PMID: 37821882 PMCID: PMC10566095 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04547-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors globally, with high morbidity and mortality. Endoplasmic reticulum is a major organelle responsible for protein synthesis, processing, and transport. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) refers to the abnormal accumulation of unfolded and misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, which are involved in tumorigenesis and cancer immunity. Nevertheless, the clinical significance of ERS remains largely unexplored in CRC. METHODS In present study, we performed an unsupervised clustering to identify two types of ERS-related subtypes [ERS clusters, and ERS-related genes (ERSGs) clusters] in multiple large-scale CRC cohorts. Through the utilization of machine learning techniques, we have successfully developed an uncomplicated yet robust gene scoring system (ERSGs signature). Furthermore, a series of analyses, including GO, KEGG, Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE), the Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMS), were used to explore the underlying biological differences and clinical significance between these groups. And immunohistochemical and bioinformatics analyses were performed to explore ZNF703, a gene of ERSGs scoring system. RESULTS We observed significant differences in prognosis and tumor immune status between the ERS clusters as well as ERSGs clusters. And the ERSGs scoring system was an independent risk factor for overall survival; and exhibited distinct tumor immune status in multicenter CRC cohorts. Besides, analyses of TNM stages, CMS groups demonstrated that patients in advanced stage and CMS4 had higher ERSGs scores. In addition, the ERSGs scores inversely correlated with positive ICB response predictors (such as, CD8A, CD274 (PD-L1), and TIS), and directly correlated with negative ICB response predictors (such as, TIDE, T cell Exclusion, COX-IS). Notably, immunohistochemical staining and bioinformatics analyses revealed that ZNF70 correlated with CD3 + and CD8 + T cells infiltration. CONCLUSION Based on large-scale and multicenter transcriptomic data, our study comprehensively revealed the essential role of ERS in CRC; and constructed a novel ERSGs scoring system to predict the prognosis of patients and the efficacy of ICB treatment. Furthermore, we identified ZNF703 as a potentially promising target for ICB therapy in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hufei Wang
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Zhi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yangbao Tao
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Suwen Ou
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Jinhua Ye
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Songlin Ran
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Kangjia Luo
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Zilong Guan
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Jun Xiang
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Guoqing Yan
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Tianyi Ma
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Shan Yu
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China.
| | - Yanni Song
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150080, China.
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24
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Gauthier-Coles G, Rahimi F, Bröer A, Bröer S. Inhibition of GCN2 Reveals Synergy with Cell-Cycle Regulation and Proteostasis. Metabolites 2023; 13:1064. [PMID: 37887389 PMCID: PMC10609202 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13101064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrated stress response is a signaling network comprising four branches, each sensing different cellular stressors, converging on the phosphorylation of eIF2α to downregulate global translation and initiate recovery. One of these branches includes GCN2, which senses cellular amino acid insufficiency and participates in maintaining amino acid homeostasis. Previous studies have shown that GCN2 is a viable cancer target when amino acid stress is induced by inhibiting an additional target. In this light, we screened numerous drugs for their potential to synergize with the GCN2 inhibitor TAP20. The drug sensitivity of six cancer cell lines to a panel of 25 compounds was assessed. Each compound was then combined with TAP20 at concentrations below their IC50, and the impact on cell growth was evaluated. The strongly synergistic combinations were further characterized using synergy analyses and matrix-dependent invasion assays. Inhibitors of proteostasis and the MEK-ERK pathway, as well as the pan-CDK inhibitors, flavopiridol, and seliciclib, were potently synergistic with TAP20 in two cell lines. Among their common CDK targets was CDK7, which was more selectively targeted by THZ-1 and synergized with TAP20. Moreover, these combinations were partially synergistic when assessed using matrix-dependent invasion assays. However, TAP20 alone was sufficient to restrict invasion at concentrations well below its growth-inhibitory IC50. We conclude that GCN2 inhibition can be further explored in vivo as a cancer target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Gauthier-Coles
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (G.G.-C.); (F.R.); (A.B.)
- School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06504, USA
| | - Farid Rahimi
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (G.G.-C.); (F.R.); (A.B.)
| | - Angelika Bröer
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (G.G.-C.); (F.R.); (A.B.)
| | - Stefan Bröer
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (G.G.-C.); (F.R.); (A.B.)
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Alexander ET, Fahey E, Phanstiel O, Gilmour SK. Loss of Anti-Tumor Efficacy by Polyamine Blocking Therapy in GCN2 Null Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2703. [PMID: 37893077 PMCID: PMC10604246 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
GCN2 is one of the main sensors of amino acid starvation stress, and its activation in the stressful tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in tumor survival and progression. We hypothesized that elevated polyamine biosynthesis and subsequent depletion of precursor arginine activates GCN2, thus rewiring metabolism to support tumor cell survival and drive myeloid immunosuppressive function. We sought to determine if the anti-tumor efficacy of a polyamine blocking therapy (PBT) may be mediated by its effect on GCN2. Unlike wild-type mice, PBT treatment in GCN2 knockout mice bearing syngeneic B16.F10 or EG7 tumors resulted in no tumor growth inhibition and no changes in the profile of infiltrating tumor immune cells. Studies with murine bone marrow cell cultures showed that increased polyamine metabolism and subsequent arginine depletion and GCN2 activation played an essential role in the generation and cytoprotective autophagy of myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) as well as the M2 polarization and survival of macrophages, all of which were inhibited by PBT. In all, our data suggest that polyamine-dependent GCN2 signaling in stromal cells promotes tumor growth and the development of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and that the PBT anti-tumor effect is mediated, at least in part, by targeting GCN2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric T. Alexander
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, 100 Lancaster Avenue, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA; (E.T.A.)
| | - Erin Fahey
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, 100 Lancaster Avenue, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA; (E.T.A.)
| | - Otto Phanstiel
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Biomolecular Research Annex, 12722 Research Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826, USA;
| | - Susan K. Gilmour
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, 100 Lancaster Avenue, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA; (E.T.A.)
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Pathak T, Benson JC, Johnson MT, Xin P, Abdelnaby AE, Walter V, Koltun WA, Yochum GS, Hempel N, Trebak M. Loss of STIM2 in colorectal cancer drives growth and metastasis through metabolic reprogramming and PERK-ATF4 endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.02.560521. [PMID: 37873177 PMCID: PMC10592933 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.02.560521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stores large amounts of calcium (Ca2+), and the controlled release of ER Ca2+ regulates a myriad of cellular functions. Although altered ER Ca2+ homeostasis is known to induce ER stress, the mechanisms by which ER Ca2+ imbalance activate ER stress pathways are poorly understood. Stromal-interacting molecules STIM1 and STIM2 are two structurally homologous ER-resident Ca2+ sensors that synergistically regulate Ca2+ influx into the cytosol through Orai Ca2+ channels for subsequent signaling to transcription and ER Ca2+ refilling. Here, we demonstrate that reduced STIM2, but not STIM1, in colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with poor patient prognosis. Loss of STIM2 causes SERCA2-dependent increase in ER Ca2+, increased protein translation and transcriptional and metabolic rewiring supporting increased tumor size, invasion, and metastasis. Mechanistically, STIM2 loss activates cMyc and the PERK/ATF4 branch of ER stress in an Orai-independent manner. Therefore, STIM2 and PERK/ATF4 could be exploited for prognosis or in targeted therapies to inhibit CRC tumor growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trayambak Pathak
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - J. Cory Benson
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Martin T. Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Ping Xin
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Ahmed Emam Abdelnaby
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Vonn Walter
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
- Penn State Cancer Institute. The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, United States
| | - Walter A. Koltun
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, United States
| | - Gregory S. Yochum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, United States
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, United States
| | - Nadine Hempel
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Mohamed Trebak
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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27
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Örd T, Örd D, Adler P, Örd T. Genome-wide census of ATF4 binding sites and functional profiling of trait-associated genetic variants overlapping ATF4 binding motifs. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1011014. [PMID: 37906604 PMCID: PMC10637723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Activating Transcription Factor 4 (ATF4) is an important regulator of gene expression in stress responses and developmental processes in many cell types. Here, we catalogued ATF4 binding sites in the human genome and identified overlaps with trait-associated genetic variants. We probed these genetic variants for allelic regulatory activity using a massively parallel reporter assay (MPRA) in HepG2 hepatoma cells exposed to tunicamycin to induce endoplasmic reticulum stress and ATF4 upregulation. The results revealed that in the majority of cases, the MPRA allelic activity of these SNPs was in agreement with the nucleotide preference seen in the ATF4 binding motif from ChIP-Seq. Luciferase and electrophoretic mobility shift assays in additional cellular models further confirmed ATF4-dependent regulatory effects for the SNPs rs532446 (GADD45A intronic; linked to hematological parameters), rs7011846 (LPL upstream; myocardial infarction), rs2718215 (diastolic blood pressure), rs281758 (psychiatric disorders) and rs6491544 (educational attainment). CRISPR-Cas9 disruption and/or deletion of the regulatory elements harboring rs532446 and rs7011846 led to the downregulation of GADD45A and LPL, respectively. Thus, these SNPs could represent examples of GWAS genetic variants that affect gene expression by altering ATF4-mediated transcriptional activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiit Örd
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Daima Örd
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Priit Adler
- Institute of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tõnis Örd
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Clavería-Cabello A, Herranz JM, Latasa MU, Arechederra M, Uriarte I, Pineda-Lucena A, Prosper F, Berraondo P, Alonso C, Sangro B, García Marin JJ, Martinez-Chantar ML, Ciordia S, Corrales FJ, Francalanci P, Alaggio R, Zucman-Rossi J, Indersie E, Cairo S, Domingo-Sàbat M, Zanatto L, Sancho-Bru P, Armengol C, Berasain C, Fernandez-Barrena MG, Avila MA. Identification and experimental validation of druggable epigenetic targets in hepatoblastoma. J Hepatol 2023; 79:989-1005. [PMID: 37302584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most frequent childhood liver cancer. Patients with aggressive tumors have limited therapeutic options; therefore, a better understanding of HB pathogenesis is needed to improve treatment. HBs have a very low mutational burden; however, epigenetic alterations are increasingly recognized. We aimed to identify epigenetic regulators consistently dysregulated in HB and to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of their targeting in clinically relevant models. METHODS We performed a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of 180 epigenetic genes. Data from fetal, pediatric, adult, peritumoral (n = 72) and tumoral (n = 91) tissues were integrated. Selected epigenetic drugs were tested in HB cells. The most relevant epigenetic target identified was validated in primary HB cells, HB organoids, a patient-derived xenograft model, and a genetic mouse model. Transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic mechanistic analyses were performed. RESULTS Altered expression of genes regulating DNA methylation and histone modifications was consistently observed in association with molecular and clinical features of poor prognosis. The histone methyltransferase G9a was markedly upregulated in tumors with epigenetic and transcriptomic traits of increased malignancy. Pharmacological targeting of G9a significantly inhibited growth of HB cells, organoids and patient-derived xenografts. Development of HB induced by oncogenic forms of β-catenin and YAP1 was ablated in mice with hepatocyte-specific deletion of G9a. We observed that HBs undergo significant transcriptional rewiring in genes involved in amino acid metabolism and ribosomal biogenesis. G9a inhibition counteracted these pro-tumorigenic adaptations. Mechanistically, G9a targeting potently repressed the expression of c-MYC and ATF4, master regulators of HB metabolic reprogramming. CONCLUSIONS HBs display a profound dysregulation of the epigenetic machinery. Pharmacological targeting of key epigenetic effectors exposes metabolic vulnerabilities that can be leveraged to improve the treatment of these patients. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS In spite of recent advances in the management of hepatoblastoma (HB), treatment resistance and drug toxicity are still major concerns. This systematic study reveals the remarkable dysregulation in the expression of epigenetic genes in HB tissues. Through pharmacological and genetic experimental approaches, we demonstrate that the histone-lysine-methyltransferase G9a is an excellent drug target in HB, which can also be harnessed to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy. Furthermore, our study highlights the profound pro-tumorigenic metabolic rewiring of HB cells orchestrated by G9a in coordination with the c-MYC oncogene. From a broader perspective, our findings suggest that anti-G9a therapies may also be effective in other c-MYC-dependent tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose Maria Herranz
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Ujue Latasa
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Arechederra
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iker Uriarte
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Felipe Prosper
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; Oncohematology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERonc, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Bruno Sangro
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain; Hepatology Unit, CCUN, Navarra University Clinic, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jose Juan García Marin
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Maria Luz Martinez-Chantar
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Liver Disease Laboratory, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CICbioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
| | - Sergio Ciordia
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, CNB-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando José Corrales
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Functional Proteomics Laboratory, CNB-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paola Francalanci
- Pathology Unit, Children's Hospital Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Alaggio
- Pathology Unit, Children's Hospital Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, INSERM, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Paris, France
| | | | - Stefano Cairo
- XenTech, Evry-Courcouronnes, France; Champions Oncology, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Montserrat Domingo-Sàbat
- Childhood Liver Oncology Group, Program of Predictive and Personalized Medicine of Cancer (PMPCC), Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
| | - Laura Zanatto
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carolina Armengol
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Childhood Liver Oncology Group, Program of Predictive and Personalized Medicine of Cancer (PMPCC), Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Spain
| | - Carmen Berasain
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite García Fernandez-Barrena
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Matias Antonio Avila
- Hepatology Program, CIMA, CCUN, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Navarra IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.
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29
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Swanda RV, Ji Q, Wu X, Yan J, Dong L, Mao Y, Uematsu S, Dong Y, Qian SB. Lysosomal cystine governs ferroptosis sensitivity in cancer via cysteine stress response. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3347-3359.e9. [PMID: 37647899 PMCID: PMC10529971 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The amino acid cysteine and its oxidized dimeric form cystine are commonly believed to be synonymous in metabolic functions. Cyst(e)ine depletion not only induces amino acid response but also triggers ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic cell death. Here, we report that unlike general amino acid starvation, cyst(e)ine deprivation triggers ATF4 induction at the transcriptional level. Unexpectedly, it is the shortage of lysosomal cystine, but not the cytosolic cysteine, that elicits the adaptative ATF4 response. The lysosome-nucleus signaling pathway involves the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) that senses lysosomal cystine via the kynurenine pathway. A blockade of lysosomal cystine efflux attenuates ATF4 induction and sensitizes ferroptosis. To potentiate ferroptosis in cancer, we develop a synthetic mRNA reagent, CysRx, that converts cytosolic cysteine to lysosomal cystine. CysRx maximizes cancer cell ferroptosis and effectively suppresses tumor growth in vivo. Thus, intracellular nutrient reprogramming has the potential to induce selective ferroptosis in cancer without systematic starvation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert V Swanda
- Graduate field of Biomedical and Biological Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Quanquan Ji
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Xincheng Wu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Jingyue Yan
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Leiming Dong
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Yuanhui Mao
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Saori Uematsu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shu-Bing Qian
- Graduate field of Biomedical and Biological Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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30
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Lobel GP, Jiang Y, Simon MC. Tumor microenvironmental nutrients, cellular responses, and cancer. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1015-1032. [PMID: 37703882 PMCID: PMC10528750 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the rapidly expanding field of tumor metabolism has enhanced our knowledge of the impact of nutrient availability on metabolic reprogramming in cancer. Apart from established roles in cancer cells themselves, various nutrients, metabolic enzymes, and stress responses are key to the activities of tumor microenvironmental immune, fibroblastic, endothelial, and other cell types that support malignant transformation. In this article, we review our current understanding of how nutrient availability affects metabolic pathways and responses in both cancer and "stromal" cells, by dissecting major examples and their regulation of cellular activity. Understanding the relationship of nutrient availability to cellular behaviors in the tumor ecosystem will broaden the horizon of exploiting novel therapeutic vulnerabilities in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham P Lobel
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yanqing Jiang
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - M Celeste Simon
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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31
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Purhonen J, Klefström J, Kallijärvi J. MYC-an emerging player in mitochondrial diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1257651. [PMID: 37731815 PMCID: PMC10507175 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1257651] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitochondrion is a major hub of cellular metabolism and involved directly or indirectly in almost all biological processes of the cell. In mitochondrial diseases, compromised respiratory electron transfer and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) lead to compensatory rewiring of metabolism with resemblance to the Warburg-like metabolic state of cancer cells. The transcription factor MYC (or c-MYC) is a major regulator of metabolic rewiring in cancer, stimulating glycolysis, nucleotide biosynthesis, and glutamine utilization, which are known or predicted to be affected also in mitochondrial diseases. Albeit not widely acknowledged thus far, several cell and mouse models of mitochondrial disease show upregulation of MYC and/or its typical transcriptional signatures. Moreover, gene expression and metabolite-level changes associated with mitochondrial integrated stress response (mt-ISR) show remarkable overlap with those of MYC overexpression. In addition to being a metabolic regulator, MYC promotes cellular proliferation and modifies the cell cycle kinetics and, especially at high expression levels, promotes replication stress and genomic instability, and sensitizes cells to apoptosis. Because cell proliferation requires energy and doubling of the cellular biomass, replicating cells should be particularly sensitive to defective OXPHOS. On the other hand, OXPHOS-defective replicating cells are predicted to be especially vulnerable to high levels of MYC as it facilitates evasion of metabolic checkpoints and accelerates cell cycle progression. Indeed, a few recent studies demonstrate cell cycle defects and nuclear DNA damage in OXPHOS deficiency. Here, we give an overview of key mitochondria-dependent metabolic pathways known to be regulated by MYC, review the current literature on MYC expression in mitochondrial diseases, and speculate how its upregulation may be triggered by OXPHOS deficiency and what implications this has for the pathogenesis of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Purhonen
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Klefström
- Finnish Cancer Institute, FICAN South Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jukka Kallijärvi
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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32
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Davyt M, Bharti N, Ignatova Z. Effect of mRNA/tRNA mutations on translation speed: Implications for human diseases. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105089. [PMID: 37495112 PMCID: PMC10470029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent discoveries establish tRNAs as central regulators of mRNA translation dynamics, and therefore cotranslational folding and function of the encoded protein. The tRNA pool, whose composition and abundance change in a cell- and tissue-dependent manner, is the main factor which determines mRNA translation velocity. In this review, we discuss a group of pathogenic mutations, in the coding sequences of either protein-coding genes or in tRNA genes, that alter mRNA translation dynamics. We also summarize advances in tRNA biology that have uncovered how variations in tRNA levels on account of genetic mutations affect protein folding and function, and thereby contribute to phenotypic diversity in clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Davyt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nikhil Bharti
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Zoya Ignatova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
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33
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Cheng X, Yang W, Lin W, Mei F. Paradoxes of Cellular SUMOylation Regulation: A Role of Biomolecular Condensates? Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:979-1006. [PMID: 37137717 PMCID: PMC10441629 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein SUMOylation is a major post-translational modification essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. SUMOylation has long been associated with stress responses as a diverse array of cellular stress signals are known to trigger rapid alternations in global protein SUMOylation. In addition, while there are large families of ubiquitination enzymes, all small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) are conjugated by a set of enzymatic machinery comprising one heterodimeric SUMO-activating enzyme, a single SUMO-conjugating enzyme, and a small number of SUMO protein ligases and SUMO-specific proteases. How a few SUMOylation enzymes specifically modify thousands of functional targets in response to diverse cellular stresses remains an enigma. Here we review recent progress toward understanding the mechanisms of SUMO regulation, particularly the potential roles of liquid-liquid phase separation/biomolecular condensates in regulating cellular SUMOylation during cellular stresses. In addition, we discuss the role of protein SUMOylation in pathogenesis and the development of novel therapeutics targeting SUMOylation. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Protein SUMOylation is one of the most prevalent post-translational modifications and plays a vital role in maintaining cellular homeostasis in response to stresses. Protein SUMOylation has been implicated in human pathogenesis, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, and infection. After more than a quarter century of extensive research, intriguing enigmas remain regarding the mechanism of cellular SUMOylation regulation and the therapeutic potential of targeting SUMOylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology & Pharmacology and Texas Therapeutics Institute, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Wenli Yang
- Department of Integrative Biology & Pharmacology and Texas Therapeutics Institute, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Integrative Biology & Pharmacology and Texas Therapeutics Institute, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Fang Mei
- Department of Integrative Biology & Pharmacology and Texas Therapeutics Institute, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
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Mukherjee D, Chakraborty S, Bercz L, D’Alesio L, Wedig J, Torok MA, Pfau T, Lathrop H, Jasani S, Guenther A, McGue J, Adu-Ampratwum D, Fuchs JR, Frankel TL, Pietrzak M, Culp S, Strohecker AM, Skardal A, Mace TA. Tomatidine targets ATF4-dependent signaling and induces ferroptosis to limit pancreatic cancer progression. iScience 2023; 26:107408. [PMID: 37554459 PMCID: PMC10405072 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with high metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), a master regulator of cellular stress, is exploited by cancer cells to survive. Prior research and data reported provide evidence that high ATF4 expression correlates with worse overall survival in PDAC. Tomatidine, a natural steroidal alkaloid, is associated with inhibition of ATF4 signaling in multiple diseases. Here, we discovered that in vitro and in vivo tomatidine treatment of PDAC cells inhibits tumor growth. Tomatidine inhibited nuclear translocation of ATF4 and reduced the transcriptional binding of ATF4 with downstream promoters. Tomatidine enhanced gemcitabine chemosensitivity in 3D ECM-hydrogels and in vivo. Tomatidine treatment was associated with induction of ferroptosis signaling validated by increased lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and decreased GPX4 expression in PDAC cells. This study highlights a possible therapeutic approach utilizing a plant-derived metabolite, tomatidine, to target ATF4 activity in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasmita Mukherjee
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Srija Chakraborty
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lena Bercz
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Liliana D’Alesio
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jessica Wedig
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Molly A. Torok
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Timothy Pfau
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hannah Lathrop
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shrina Jasani
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Abigail Guenther
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jake McGue
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Daniel Adu-Ampratwum
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - James R. Fuchs
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry & Pharmacognosy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | | | - Maciej Pietrzak
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stacey Culp
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Anne M. Strohecker
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology & Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Aleksander Skardal
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas A. Mace
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Lines CL, McGrath MJ, Dorwart T, Conn CS. The integrated stress response in cancer progression: a force for plasticity and resistance. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1206561. [PMID: 37601686 PMCID: PMC10435748 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1206561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
During their quest for growth, adaptation, and survival, cancer cells create a favorable environment through the manipulation of normal cellular mechanisms. They increase anabolic processes, including protein synthesis, to facilitate uncontrolled proliferation and deplete the tumor microenvironment of resources. As a dynamic adaptation to the self-imposed oncogenic stress, cancer cells promptly hijack translational control to alter gene expression. Rewiring the cellular proteome shifts the phenotypic balance between growth and adaptation to promote therapeutic resistance and cancer cell survival. The integrated stress response (ISR) is a key translational program activated by oncogenic stress that is utilized to fine-tune protein synthesis and adjust to environmental barriers. Here, we focus on the role of ISR signaling for driving cancer progression. We highlight mechanisms of regulation for distinct mRNA translation downstream of the ISR, expand on oncogenic signaling utilizing the ISR in response to environmental stresses, and pinpoint the impact this has for cancer cell plasticity during resistance to therapy. There is an ongoing need for innovative drug targets in cancer treatment, and modulating ISR activity may provide a unique avenue for clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Crystal S. Conn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Baniulyte G, Durham SA, Merchant LE, Sammons MA. Shared Gene Targets of the ATF4 and p53 Transcriptional Networks. Mol Cell Biol 2023; 43:426-449. [PMID: 37533313 PMCID: PMC10448979 DOI: 10.1080/10985549.2023.2229225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The master tumor suppressor p53 regulates multiple cell fate decisions, such as cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, via transcriptional control of a broad gene network. Dysfunction in the p53 network is common in cancer, often through mutations that inactivate p53 or other members of the pathway. Induction of tumor-specific cell death by restoration of p53 activity without off-target effects has gained significant interest in the field. In this study, we explore the gene regulatory mechanisms underlying a putative anticancer strategy involving stimulation of the p53-independent integrated stress response (ISR). Our data demonstrate the p53 and ISR pathways converge to independently regulate common metabolic and proapoptotic genes. We investigated the architecture of multiple gene regulatory elements bound by p53 and the ISR effector ATF4 controlling this shared regulation. We identified additional key transcription factors that control basal and stress-induced regulation of these shared p53 and ATF4 target genes. Thus, our results provide significant new molecular and genetic insight into gene regulatory networks and transcription factors that are the target of numerous antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Baniulyte
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Serene A. Durham
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Lauren E. Merchant
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Morgan A. Sammons
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
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He F, Zhang P, Liu J, Wang R, Kaufman RJ, Yaden BC, Karin M. ATF4 suppresses hepatocarcinogenesis by inducing SLC7A11 (xCT) to block stress-related ferroptosis. J Hepatol 2023; 79:362-377. [PMID: 36996941 PMCID: PMC11332364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a leading cause of cancer-related death, is associated with viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and alcohol-related steatohepatitis, all of which trigger endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, hepatocyte death, inflammation, and compensatory proliferation. Using ER stress-prone MUP-uPA mice, we established that ER stress and hypernutrition cooperate to cause NASH and HCC, but the contribution of individual stress effectors, such as activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), to HCC and their underlying mechanisms of action remained unknown. METHODS Hepatocyte-specific ATF4-deficient MUP-uPA mice (MUP-uPA/Atf4Δhep) and control MUP-uPA/Atf4F/F mice were fed a high-fat diet to induce NASH-related HCC, and Atf4F/F and Atf4Δhep mice were injected with diethylnitrosamine to model carcinogen-induced HCC. Histological, biochemical, and RNA-sequencing analyses were performed to identify and define the role of ATF4-induced solute carrier family 7a member 11 (SLC7A11) expression in hepatocarcinogenesis. Reconstitution of SLC7A11 in ATF4-deficient primary hepatocytes and mouse livers was used to study its effects on ferroptosis and HCC development. RESULTS Hepatocyte ATF4 ablation inhibited hepatic steatosis, but increased susceptibility to ferroptosis, resulting in accelerated HCC development. Although ATF4 activates numerous genes, ferroptosis susceptibility and hepatocarcinogenesis were reversed by ectopic expression of a single ATF4 target, Slc7a11, coding for a subunit of the cystine/glutamate antiporter xCT, which is needed for glutathione synthesis. A ferroptosis inhibitor also reduced liver damage and inflammation. ATF4 and SLC7A11 amounts were positively correlated in human HCC and livers of patients with NASH. CONCLUSIONS Despite ATF4 being upregulated in established HCC, it serves an important protective function in normal hepatocytes. By maintaining glutathione production, ATF4 inhibits ferroptosis-dependent inflammatory cell death, which is known to promote compensatory proliferation and hepatocarcinogenesis. Ferroptosis inhibitors or ATF4 activators may also blunt HCC onset. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with multiple aetiologies. Most HCC aetiologies cause hepatocyte stress and death, as well as subsequent inflammation, and compensatory proliferation, thereby accelerating HCCdevelopment. The contribution of individual stress effectors to HCC and their underlying mechanisms of action were heretofore unknown. This study shows that the stress-responsive transcription factor ATF4 blunts liver damage and cancer development by suppressing iron-dependent cell death (ferroptosis). Although ATF4 ablation prevents hepatic steatosis, it also increases susceptibility to ferroptosis, due to decreased expression of the cystine/glutamate antiporter SLC7A11, whose expression in human HCC and NASH correlates with ATF4. These findings reinforce the notion that benign steatosis may be protective and does not increase cancer risk unless accompanied by stress-induced liver damage. These results have important implications for prevention of liver damage and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng He
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China; Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Peng Zhang
- Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Junlai Liu
- Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ruolei Wang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Randal J Kaufman
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Center for Genetic Disorders and Aging Research, SBP Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin C Yaden
- Diabetes Novel Therapies and External Innovation, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Michael Karin
- Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Melis M, Trasino SE, Tang XH, Rappa A, Zhang T, Qin L, Gudas LJ. Retinoic Acid Receptor β Loss in Hepatocytes Increases Steatosis and Elevates the Integrated Stress Response in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12035. [PMID: 37569418 PMCID: PMC10418449 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512035] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), hepatic reductions in vitamin A and perturbations in vitamin A metabolism are common. However, the roles that the vitamin A receptors, termed retinoic acid receptors (RARs), may have in preventing the pathophysiology of ALD remains unclear. Our prior data indicate that a RARβ agonist limits the pathology of alcohol-related liver disease. Thus, we generated liver-specific AlbCre-RARβ knockout (BKO) mice and compared them to wild type (WT) mice in an early ALD model. Both strains showed similar blood ethanol concentrations and ETOH-metabolizing enzymes. However, the livers of pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice developed higher levels of steatosis and triglycerides than pair-fed-WT and ETOH-WT mice. The increased hepatic steatosis observed in the pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice was associated with higher lipid synthesis/trafficking transcripts and lower beta-oxidation transcripts. ETOH-BKO mice also exhibited a higher integrated stress response (ISR) signature, including higher transcript and protein levels of ATF4 and its target, 4-EBP1. In human hepatocytes (HepG2) that lack RARβ (RARβ-KO), ETOH treatments resulted in greater reactive oxygen species compared to their parental cells. Notably, even without ETOH, ATF4 and 4-EBP1 protein levels were higher in the RARβ-KO cells than in their parental cells. These 4-EBP1 increases were greatly attenuated in cultured ATF4-deficient and RARβ/ATF4-deficient HepG2, suggesting that RARβ is a crucial negative regulator of 4-EBP1 through ATF4 in cultured hepatocytes. Here, we identify RARβ as a negative regulator of lipid metabolism and cellular stress in ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Melis
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.M.)
| | - Steven E. Trasino
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.M.)
- Nutrition Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Xiao-Han Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.M.)
| | - Andrew Rappa
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.M.)
| | - Tuo Zhang
- Genomics Resources Core Facility, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lihui Qin
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lorraine J. Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.M.)
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Chavdoula E, Anastas V, Ferlita AL, Aldana J, Carota G, Spampinato M, Soysal B, Cosentini I, Parashar S, Sircar A, Nigita G, Sehgal L, Freitas MA, Tsichlis PN. Transcriptional regulation of amino acid metabolism by KDM2B, in the context of ncPRC1.1 and in concert with MYC and ATF4. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.07.548031. [PMID: 37461630 PMCID: PMC10350079 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.07.548031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Introduction KDM2B encodes a JmjC domain-containing histone lysine demethylase, which functions as an oncogene in several types of tumors, including TNBC. This study was initiated to address the cancer relevance of the results of our earlier work, which had shown that overexpression of KDM2B renders mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) resistant to oxidative stress by regulating antioxidant mechanisms. Methods We mainly employed a multi-omics strategy consisting of RNA-Seq, quantitative TMT proteomics, Mass-spectrometry-based global metabolomics, ATAC-Seq and ChIP-seq, to explore the role of KDM2B in the resistance to oxidative stress and intermediary metabolism. These data and data from existing patient datasets were analyzed using bioinformatic tools, including exon-intron-split analysis (EISA), FLUFF and clustering analyses. The main genetic strategy we employed was gene silencing with shRNAs. ROS were measured by flow cytometry, following staining with CellROX and various metabolites were measured with biochemical assays, using commercially available kits. Gene expression was monitored with qRT-PCR and immunoblotting, as indicated. Results The knockdown of KDM2B in basal-like breast cancer cell lines lowers the levels of GSH and sensitizes the cells to ROS inducers, GSH targeting molecules, and DUB inhibitors. To address the mechanism of GSH regulation, we knocked down KDM2B in MDA-MB-231 cells and we examined the effects of the knockdown, using a multi-omics strategy. The results showed that KDM2B, functioning in the context of ncPRC1.1, regulates a network of epigenetic and transcription factors, which control a host of metabolic enzymes, including those involved in the SGOC, glutamate, and GSH metabolism. They also showed that KDM2B enhances the chromatin accessibility and expression of MYC and ATF4, and that it binds in concert with MYC and ATF4, the promoters of a large number of transcriptionally active genes, including many, encoding metabolic enzymes. Additionally, MYC and ATF4 binding sites were enriched in genes whose accessibility depends on KDM2B, and analysis of a cohort of TNBCs expressing high or low levels of KDM2B, but similar levels of MYC and ATF4 identified a subset of MYC targets, whose expression correlates with the expression of KDM2B. Further analyses of basal-like TNBCs in the same cohort, revealed that tumors expressing high levels of all three regulators exhibit a distinct metabolic signature that carries a poor prognosis. Conclusions The present study links KDM2B, ATF4, and MYC in a transcriptional network that regulates the expression of multiple metabolic enzymes, including those that control the interconnected SGOC, glutamate, and GSH metabolic pathways. The co-occupancy of the promoters of many transcriptionally active genes, by all three factors, the enrichment of MYC binding sites in genes whose chromatin accessibility depends on KDM2B, and the correlation of the levels of KDM2B with the expression of a subset of MYC target genes in tumors that express similar levels of MYC, suggest that KDM2B regulates both the expression and the transcriptional activity of MYC. Importantly, the concerted expression of all three factors also defines a distinct metabolic subset of TNBCs with poor prognosis. Overall, this study identifies novel mechanisms of SGOC regulation, suggests novel KDM2B-dependent metabolic vulnerabilities in TNBC, and provides new insights into the role of KDM2B in the epigenetic regulation of transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Chavdoula
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Vollter Anastas
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Genetics, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Julian Aldana
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Giuseppe Carota
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mariarita Spampinato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Burak Soysal
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ilaria Cosentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sameer Parashar
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Anuvrat Sircar
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Lalit Sehgal
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Michael A. Freitas
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Philip N. Tsichlis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- The Ohio State University, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
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Baniulyte G, Durham SA, Merchant LE, Sammons MA. Shared gene targets of the ATF4 and p53 transcriptional networks. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.15.532778. [PMID: 36993734 PMCID: PMC10055071 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.15.532778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The master tumor suppressor p53 regulates multiple cell fate decisions, like cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, via transcriptional control of a broad gene network. Dysfunction in the p53 network is common in cancer, often through mutations that inactivate p53 or other members of the pathway. Induction of tumor-specific cell death by restoration of p53 activity without off-target effects has gained significant interest in the field. In this study, we explore the gene regulatory mechanisms underlying a putative anti-cancer strategy involving stimulation of the p53-independent Integrated Stress Response (ISR). Our data demonstrate the p53 and ISR pathways converge to independently regulate common metabolic and pro-apoptotic genes. We investigated the architecture of multiple gene regulatory elements bound by p53 and the ISR effector ATF4 controlling this shared regulation. We identified additional key transcription factors that control basal and stress-induced regulation of these shared p53 and ATF4 target genes. Thus, our results provide significant new molecular and genetic insight into gene regulatory networks and transcription factors that are the target of numerous antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Baniulyte
- Department of Biological Sciences and The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Serene A. Durham
- Department of Biological Sciences and The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Lauren E. Merchant
- Department of Biological Sciences and The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Morgan A. Sammons
- Department of Biological Sciences and The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
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He L, Ding Y, Zhou X, Li T, Yin Y. Serine signaling governs metabolic homeostasis and health. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:361-372. [PMID: 36967366 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Serine has functions that are involved in metabolic homeostasis and health in pathological or stressful situations. Notably, the de novo serine synthesis pathway (SSP) plays a vital role in targeted regulation of immune responses, cell proliferation, and lipid/protein metabolism. The presentation of serine residues derived from SSP may be a signal of stress and provide novel insights into the relationship between metabolic homeostasis and diseases. Here, we summarize the current trends in understanding the regulatory mechanisms of serine metabolism, discuss how serine signaling governs metabolic and antistress processes, including oxidative stress, immunity, energy and lipid metabolism, intestinal microbiota, and the neurological system. We present a possible framework by which serine metabolism maintains metabolic homeostasis and treats human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuqin He
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Intestinal Function and Regulation, Hunan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and Health, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Regions, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Processes, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Changsha 410125, China.
| | - Yaqiong Ding
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Intestinal Function and Regulation, Hunan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and Health, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Regions, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Processes, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Xihong Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Regions, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Processes, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Regions, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Processes, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Changsha 410125, China.
| | - Yulong Yin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Regions, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Processes, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Changsha 410125, China.
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Wang S, Zhou L, Ji N, Sun C, Sun L, Sun J, Du Y, Zhang N, Li Y, Liu W, Lu W. Targeting ACYP1-mediated glycolysis reverses lenvatinib resistance and restricts hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 69:100976. [PMID: 37210811 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Acylphosphatase 1 (ACYP1), a protein located in the mammalian cell cytoplasm, has been shown to be associated with tumor initiation and progression by functioning as a metabolism-related gene. Here we explored the potential mechanisms by which ACYP1 regulates the development of HCC and participates in the resistance to lenvatinib. ACYP1 can promote the proliferation, invasion, and migration capacities of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing reveals that ACYP1 markedly enhances the expression of genes related to aerobic glycolysis, and LDHA is identified as the downstream gene of ACYP1. Overexpression of ACYP1 upregulates LDHA levels, which then increases the malignancy potential of HCC cells. GSEA data analysis reveals the enrichment of differentially expressed genes in the MYC pathway, indicating a positive correlation between MYC and ACYP1 levels. Mechanistically, ACYP1 exerts its tumor-promoting roles by regulating the Warburg effect through activating the MYC/LDHA axis. Mass spectrometry analysis and Co-IP assays confirm that ACYP1 can bind to HSP90. The regulation of c-Myc protein expression and stability by ACYP1 is HSP90 dependent. Importantly, lenvatinib resistance is associated with ACYP1, and targeting ACYP1 remarkably decreases lenvatinib resistance and inhibits progression of HCC tumors with high ACYP1 expression when combined with lenvatinib in vitro and in vivo. These results illustrate that ACYP1 has a direct regulatory role in glycolysis and drives lenvatinib resistance and HCC progression via the ACYP1/HSP90/MYC/LDHA axis. Targeting ACYP1 could synergize with lenvatinib to treat HCC more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China; Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingyi Zhou
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Ning Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, PR China
| | - Chengtao Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Linlin Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China
| | - Jiao Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China
| | - Yawei Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China
| | - Ningning Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China.
| | - Yueguo Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, PR China
| | - Weishuai Liu
- Department of Pain Relief, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China.
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Liver Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, PR China.
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43
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Leibowitz BJ, Zhao G, Xia W, Wang Y, Ruan H, Zhang L, Yu J. mTOR inhibition suppresses Myc-driven polyposis by inducing immunogenic cell death. Oncogene 2023:10.1038/s41388-023-02706-6. [PMID: 37138032 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02706-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Myc is a key driver of colorectal cancer initiation and progression, but remains a difficult drug target. In this study, we show that mTOR inhibition potently suppresses intestinal polyp formation, regresses established polyps, and prolongs lifespan of APCMin/+ mice. Everolimus in diet strongly reduces p-4EBP1, p-S6, and Myc levels, and induces apoptosis of cells with activated β-catenin (p-S552) in the polyps on day 3. The cell death is accompanied by ER stress, activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, innate immune cell recruitment, and followed by T-cell infiltration on day 14 persisting for months thereafter. These effects are absent in normal intestinal crypts with physiologic levels of Myc and a high rate of proliferation. Using normal human colonic epithelial cells, EIF4E S209A knockin and BID knockout mice, we found that local inflammation and antitumor efficacy of Everolimus requires Myc-dependent induction of ER stress and apoptosis. These findings demonstrate mTOR and deregulated Myc as a selective vulnerability of mutant APC-driven intestinal tumorigenesis, whose inhibition disrupts metabolic and immune adaptation and reactivates immune surveillance necessary for long-term tumor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Leibowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Guangyi Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Wenxin Xia
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Hang Ruan
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
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Purhonen J, Banerjee R, Wanne V, Sipari N, Mörgelin M, Fellman V, Kallijärvi J. Mitochondrial complex III deficiency drives c-MYC overexpression and illicit cell cycle entry leading to senescence and segmental progeria. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2356. [PMID: 37095097 PMCID: PMC10126100 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38027-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests mitochondria as key modulators of normal and premature aging, yet whether primary oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) deficiency can cause progeroid disease remains unclear. Here, we show that mice with severe isolated respiratory complex III (CIII) deficiency display nuclear DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, aberrant mitoses, and cellular senescence in the affected organs such as liver and kidney, and a systemic phenotype resembling juvenile-onset progeroid syndromes. Mechanistically, CIII deficiency triggers presymptomatic cancer-like c-MYC upregulation followed by excessive anabolic metabolism and illicit cell proliferation against lack of energy and biosynthetic precursors. Transgenic alternative oxidase dampens mitochondrial integrated stress response and the c-MYC induction, suppresses the illicit proliferation, and prevents juvenile lethality despite that canonical OXPHOS-linked functions remain uncorrected. Inhibition of c-MYC with the dominant-negative Omomyc protein relieves the DNA damage in CIII-deficient hepatocytes in vivo. Our results connect primary OXPHOS deficiency to genomic instability and progeroid pathogenesis and suggest that targeting c-MYC and aberrant cell proliferation may be therapeutic in mitochondrial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Purhonen
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rishi Banerjee
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vilma Wanne
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nina Sipari
- Viikki Metabolomics Unit, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 65, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Matthias Mörgelin
- Division of Infection Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, P.O.Box 117, 221 00, Lund, Sweden
- Colzyx AB, Scheelevägen 2, 22381, Lund, Sweden
| | - Vineta Fellman
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund, Pediatrics, Lund University, P.O.Box 117, 221 00, Lund, Sweden
- Children's Hospital, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 22, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka Kallijärvi
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290, Helsinki, Finland.
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O.Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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Saeed H, Leibowitz BJ, Zhang L, Yu J. Targeting Myc-driven stress addiction in colorectal cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 69:100963. [PMID: 37119690 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
MYC is a proto-oncogene that encodes a powerful regulator of transcription and cellular programs essential for normal development, as well as the growth and survival of various types of cancer cells. MYC rearrangement and amplification is a common cause of hematologic malignancies. In epithelial cancers such as colorectal cancer, genetic alterations in MYC are rare. Activation of Wnt, ERK/MAPK, and PI3K/mTOR pathways dramatically increases Myc levels through enhanced transcription, translation, and protein stability. Elevated Myc promotes stress adaptation, metabolic reprogramming, and immune evasion to drive cancer development and therapeutic resistance through broad changes in transcriptional and translational landscapes. Despite intense interest and effort, Myc remains a difficult drug target. Deregulation of Myc and its targets has profound effects that vary depending on the type of cancer and the context. Here, we summarize recent advances in the mechanistic understanding of Myc-driven oncogenesis centered around mRNA translation and proteostress. Promising strategies and agents under development to target Myc are also discussed with a focus on colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Saeed
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brian J Leibowitz
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Chemical Biology and Pharmacology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jian Yu
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Dept. of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5117 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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46
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Gerstberger S, Jiang Q, Ganesh K. Metastasis. Cell 2023; 186:1564-1579. [PMID: 37059065 PMCID: PMC10511214 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 140.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Most cancer-associated deaths occur due to metastasis, yet our understanding of metastasis as an evolving, heterogeneous, systemic disease and of how to effectively treat it is still emerging. Metastasis requires the acquisition of a succession of traits to disseminate, variably enter and exit dormancy, and colonize distant organs. The success of these events is driven by clonal selection, the potential of metastatic cells to dynamically transition into distinct states, and their ability to co-opt the immune environment. Here, we review the main principles of metastasis and highlight emerging opportunities to develop more effective therapies for metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Gerstberger
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qingwen Jiang
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karuna Ganesh
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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47
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Jin J, Byun JK, Choi YK, Park KG. Targeting glutamine metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for cancer. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:706-715. [PMID: 37009798 PMCID: PMC10167356 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00971-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 87.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Proliferating cancer cells rely largely on glutamine for survival and proliferation. Glutamine serves as a carbon source for the synthesis of lipids and metabolites via the TCA cycle, as well as a source of nitrogen for amino acid and nucleotide synthesis. To date, many studies have explored the role of glutamine metabolism in cancer, thereby providing a scientific rationale for targeting glutamine metabolism for cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the mechanism(s) involved at each step of glutamine metabolism, from glutamine transporters to redox homeostasis, and highlight areas that can be exploited for clinical cancer treatment. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms underlying cancer cell resistance to agents that target glutamine metabolism, as well as strategies for overcoming these mechanisms. Finally, we discuss the effects of glutamine blockade on the tumor microenvironment and explore strategies to maximize the utility of glutamine blockers as a cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonghwa Jin
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, 41944, South Korea
| | - Jun-Kyu Byun
- BK21 FOUR Community-based Intelligent Novel Drug Discovery Education Unit, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyung Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu, 41404, Korea.
| | - Keun-Gyu Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, 41944, South Korea.
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48
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Pu S, Pan Y, Zhang Q, You T, Yue T, Zhang Y, Wang M. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Mitochondrial Stress in Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28073160. [PMID: 37049925 PMCID: PMC10095764 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28073160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a widespread and harmful disease closely linked to mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Globally, severe drug-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer are the primary causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality. A hallmark of DILI is ERS and changes in mitochondrial morphology and function, which increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a vicious cycle of mutually reinforcing stress responses. Several pathways are maladapted to maintain homeostasis during DILI. Here, we discuss the processes of liver injury caused by several types of drugs that induce hepatocyte stress, focusing primarily on DILI by ERS and mitochondrial stress. Importantly, both ERS and mitochondrial stress are mediated by the overproduction of ROS, destruction of Ca2+ homeostasis, and unfolded protein response (UPR). Additionally, we review new pathways and potential pharmacological targets for DILI to highlight new possibilities for DILI treatment and mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Pu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yangyang Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Ting You
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Tao Yue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yuxing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Meng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
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49
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Altieri DC. Mitochondria in cancer: clean windmills or stressed tinkerers? Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:293-299. [PMID: 36055942 PMCID: PMC9938083 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There is now a consensus that mitochondria are important tumor drivers, sophisticated biological machines that can engender a panoply of key disease traits. How this happens, however, is still mostly elusive. The opinion presented here is that what cancer exploits are not the normal mitochondria of oxygenated and nutrient-replete tissues, but the unfit, damaged, and dysfunctional organelles generated by the hostile environment of tumor growth. These 'ghost' mitochondria survive quality control and thwart cell death to relay multiple comprehensive 'danger signals' of metabolic starvation, cellular stress, and reprogrammed gene expression. The result is a new, treacherous cellular phenotype, proliferatively quiescent but highly motile, that enables tumor cell escape from a threatening environment and colonization of distant, more favorable sites (metastasis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario C Altieri
- Immunology, Microenvironment and Metastasis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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50
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Zhu C, Liu P, Li C, Zhang Y, Yin J, Hou L, Zheng G, Liu X. Near-Death Cells Cause Chemotherapy-Induced Metastasis via ATF4-Mediated NF-κB Signaling Activation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205835. [PMID: 36739602 PMCID: PMC10074103 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cytotoxic chemotherapy is a primary treatment modality for many patients with advanced cancer. Increasing preclinical and clinical observations indicate that chemotherapy can exacerbate tumor metastasis. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, it is attempted to identify the mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced cancer recurrence and metastasis. It is revealed that a small subpopulation of "near-death cells" (NDCs) with compromised plasma membranes can reverse the death process to enhance survival and repopulation after exposure to lethal doses of cytotoxins. Moreover, these NDCs acquire enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic capabilities, but maintain chemosensitivity in multiple models. Mechanistically, cytotoxin exposure induces activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4)-dependent nonclassical NF-κB signaling activation; ultimately, this results in nuclear translocation of p52 and RelB in NDCs. Deletion of ATF4 in parental cancer cells significantly reduces colony formation and metastasis of NDCs, whereas overexpression of ATF4 activates the nonclassical NF-κB signaling pathway to promote chemotherapy-induced metastasis of NDCs. Overall, these results provide novel mechanistic insights into the chemotherapy-induced metastasis and indicate the pivotal role of NDCs in mediating tumor relapse after cytotoxic therapy. This study also suggests that targeting ATF4 may be an effective approach in improving the efficacy of chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Zhu
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of MedicineShenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdong510275China
| | - Pei Liu
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of MedicineShenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdong510275China
| | - Chuan‐Yuan Li
- Department of DermatologyDuke University Medical CenterDurhamNC27710USA
| | - Yuli Zhang
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of MedicineShenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdong510275China
| | - Jiang Yin
- Cancer Research Institute and Cancer HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510180China
| | - Linlin Hou
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of MedicineShenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdong510275China
| | - Guopei Zheng
- Cancer Research Institute and Cancer HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510180China
| | - Xinjian Liu
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of MedicineShenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdong510275China
- Bebetter Med Inc.GuangzhouGuangdong510525China
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