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Xue Z, Qin L, Xuan H, Luo K, Huang M, Xie L, Su Y, Xu L, Harsh J, Dale B, Shi X, Chen X, Kaniskan HÜ, Jin J, Wen H. A potent and selective ENL degrader suppresses oncogenic gene expression and leukemia progression. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado1432. [PMID: 39196923 PMCID: PMC11352836 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado1432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024]
Abstract
The histone acylation reader eleven-nineteen leukemia (ENL) plays a pivotal role in sustaining oncogenesis in acute leukemias, particularly in mixed-lineage leukemia-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemia. ENL relies on its reader domain to recognize histone lysine acylation promoting oncogenic gene expression and leukemia progression. Here, we report the development of MS41, a highly potent and selective von Hippel-Lindau-recruiting ENL degrader that effectively inhibits the growth of ENL-dependent leukemia cells. MS41-induced ENL degradation reduces the chromatin occupancy of ENL-associated transcription elongation machinery, resulting in the suppression of key oncogenic gene expression programs and the activation of differentiation genes. MS41 is well-tolerated in vivo and substantially suppresses leukemia progression in a xenograft mouse model of MLL-r leukemia. Notably, MS41 also induces the degradation of mutant ENL proteins identified in Wilms' tumors. Our findings emphasize the therapeutic potential of pharmacological ENL degradation for treating ENL-dependent cancers, making MS41 not only a valuable chemical probe but also potential anticancer therapeutic for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyu Xue
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Lihuai Qin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences, Oncological Sciences, and Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, New York, USA
| | - Hongwen Xuan
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Kaixiu Luo
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences, Oncological Sciences, and Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, New York, USA
| | - Mengying Huang
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Ling Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yangzhou Su
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Longxia Xu
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Josiah Harsh
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Brandon Dale
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences, Oncological Sciences, and Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, New York, USA
| | - Xiaobing Shi
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Xian Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - H Ümit Kaniskan
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences, Oncological Sciences, and Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, New York, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences, Oncological Sciences, and Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, New York, USA
| | - Hong Wen
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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2
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Battista S, Fedele M, Secco L, Ingo AMD, Sgarra R, Manfioletti G. Binding to the Other Side: The AT-Hook DNA-Binding Domain Allows Nuclear Factors to Exploit the DNA Minor Groove. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8863. [PMID: 39201549 PMCID: PMC11354804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The "AT-hook" is a peculiar DNA-binding domain that interacts with DNA in the minor groove in correspondence to AT-rich sequences. This domain has been first described in the HMGA protein family of architectural factors and later in various transcription factors and chromatin proteins, often in association with major groove DNA-binding domains. In this review, using a literature search, we identified about one hundred AT-hook-containing proteins, mainly chromatin proteins and transcription factors. After considering the prototypes of AT-hook-containing proteins, the HMGA family, we review those that have been studied in more detail and that have been involved in various pathologies with a particular focus on cancer. This review shows that the AT-hook is a domain that gives proteins not only the ability to interact with DNA but also with RNA and proteins. This domain can have enzymatic activity and can influence the activity of the major groove DNA-binding domain and chromatin docking modules when present, and its activity can be modulated by post-translational modifications. Future research on the function of AT-hook-containing proteins will allow us to better decipher their function and contribution to the different pathologies and to eventually uncover their mutual influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Battista
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.B.); (M.F.)
| | - Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.B.); (M.F.)
| | - Luca Secco
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.S.); (A.M.D.I.)
| | | | - Riccardo Sgarra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.S.); (A.M.D.I.)
| | - Guidalberto Manfioletti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.S.); (A.M.D.I.)
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Deng K, Liang L, Yang Y, Wu Y, Li Y, Zhang R, Tian Y, Lu C. The Wdr5-H3K4me3 Epigenetic Axis Regulates Pancreatic Tumor Immunogenicity and Immune Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8773. [PMID: 39201460 PMCID: PMC11354242 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168773] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The WDR5/MLL1-H3K4me3 epigenetic axis is often activated in both tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells to drive various cellular responses in the tumor microenvironment and has been extensively studied in hematopoietic cancer, but its respective functions in tumor cells and immune cells in the context of tumor growth regulation of solid tumor is still incompletely understood. We report here that WDR5 exhibits a higher expression level in human pancreatic tumor tissues compared with adjacent normal pancreas. Moreover, WDR5 expression is negatively correlated with patients' response to chemotherapy or immunotherapy in human colon cancer and melanoma. However, WDR5 expression is positively correlated with the HLA level in human cancer cells, and H3K4me3 enrichment is observed at the promoter region of the HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C genes in pancreatic cancer cells. Using mouse tumor cell lines and in vivo tumor models, we determined that WDR5 deficiency or inhibition significantly represses MHC I expression in vitro and in vivo in pancreatic tumor cells. Mechanistically, we determine that WDR5 deficiency inhibits H3K4me3 deposition at the MHC I (H2K) promoter region to repress MHC I (H2K) transcription. On the other hand, WDR5 depletion leads to the effective downregulation of immune checkpoints and immunosuppressive cytokines, including TGFβ and IL6, in the pancreatic tumor microenvironments. Our data determine that WDR5 not only regulates tumor cell immunogenicity to suppress tumor growth but also activates immune suppressive pathways to promote tumor immune evasion. Selective activation of the WDR5-MHC I pathway and/or selective inhibition of the WDR5-immune checkpoint and WDR5-cytokine pathways should be considered in WDR5-based epigenetic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaidi Deng
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Liyan Liang
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yingcui Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yanmin Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Rongrong Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; (R.Z.); (Y.T.)
| | - Yulin Tian
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; (R.Z.); (Y.T.)
| | - Chunwan Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (K.D.); (L.L.); (Y.Y.); (Y.W.); (Y.L.)
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Wang J, Zheng P, Yu J, Yang X, Zhang J. Rational design of small-sized peptidomimetic inhibitors disrupting protein-protein interaction. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:2212-2225. [PMID: 39026653 PMCID: PMC11253864 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00202d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions are fundamental to nearly all biological processes. Due to their structural flexibility, peptides have emerged as promising candidates for developing inhibitors targeting large and planar PPI interfaces. However, their limited drug-like properties pose challenges. Hence, rational modifications based on peptide structures are anticipated to expedite the innovation of peptide-based therapeutics. This review comprehensively examines the design strategies for developing small-sized peptidomimetic inhibitors targeting PPI interfaces, which predominantly encompass two primary categories: peptidomimetics with abbreviated sequences and low molecular weights and peptidomimetics mimicking secondary structural conformations. We have also meticulously detailed several instances of designing and optimizing small-sized peptidomimetics targeting PPIs, including MLL1-WDR5, PD-1/PD-L1, and Bak/Bcl-xL, among others, to elucidate the potential application prospects of these design strategies. Hopefully, this review will provide valuable insights and inspiration for the future development of PPI small-sized peptidomimetic inhibitors in pharmaceutical research endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyuan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan 750004 China
| | - Ping Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan 750004 China
| | - Jianqiang Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan 750004 China
| | - Xiuyan Yang
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200025 China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Protection, Development and Utilization of Medicinal Resources in Liupanshan Area, Ministry of Education, Peptide & Protein Drug Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan 750004 China
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5
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Wenge DV, Armstrong SA. The future of HOXA- expressing leukemias: Menin inhibitor response and resistance. Curr Opin Hematol 2024; 31:64-70. [PMID: 38010951 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000796] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We provide an update on the successes and ongoing challenges of Menin inhibition as a novel approach for the treatment of patients with acute leukemias that express HOXA cluster genes including leukemias with KMT2A -rearrangements, NPM1 mutations or NUP98 -rearrangements. Initial clinical trials show promising response rates in heavily pretreated patients suggesting these inhibitors may have a significant impact on patient outcome. Furthermore, the development of resistance mutations that decrease drug binding affinity, validates Menin as a therapeutic target in human cancers. Therapeutic strategies aiming at overcoming and preventing resistance, are of high clinical relevance. RECENT FINDINGS Several Menin inhibitor chemotypes have entered clinical trials. Acquired point mutations have recently been described as a mechanism of resistance towards Menin inhibitors. However, resistance can develop in absence of these mutations. Combination therapies are currently being investigated in preclinical models and in early phase clinical trials. SUMMARY Given the remarkable overall response rates, shedding light on treatment options for patients whose leukemias develop resistance to Menin inhibitors is an imminent clinical need. Studying the underlying mechanisms to inform clinical decision making, and to potentially prevent the development of resistance is of outmost importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela V Wenge
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Wen H, Shi X. Histone Readers and Their Roles in Cancer. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:245-272. [PMID: 38113004 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_8] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Histone proteins in eukaryotic cells are subjected to a wide variety of post-translational modifications, which are known to play an important role in the partitioning of the genome into distinctive compartments and domains. One of the major functions of histone modifications is to recruit reader proteins, which recognize the epigenetic marks and transduce the molecular signals in chromatin to downstream effects. Histone readers are defined protein domains with well-organized three-dimensional structures. In this Chapter, we will outline major histone readers, delineate their biochemical and structural features in histone recognition, and describe how dysregulation of histone readout leads to human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wen
- Van Andel Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Xiaobing Shi
- Van Andel Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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7
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Matthews AH, Pratz KW, Carroll MP. Targeting Menin and CD47 to Address Unmet Needs in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5906. [PMID: 36497385 PMCID: PMC9735817 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235906] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
After forty years of essentially unchanged treatment in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), innovation over the past five years has been rapid, with nine drug approvals from 2016 to 2021. Increased understanding of the molecular changes and genetic ontology of disease have led to targeting mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase, FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), B-cell lymphoma 2 and hedgehog pathways. Yet outcomes remain variable; especially in defined molecular and genetic subgroups such as NPM1 (Nucleophosmin 1) mutations, 11q23/KMT2A rearranged and TP53 mutations. Emerging therapies seek to address these unmet needs, and all three of these subgroups have promising new therapeutic approaches. Here, we will discuss the normal biological roles of menin in acute leukemia, notably in KMT2A translocations and NPM1 mutation, as well as current drug development. We will also explore how CD47 inhibition may move immunotherapy into front-line settings and unlock new treatment strategies in TP53 mutated disease. We will then consider how these new therapeutic advances may change the management of AML overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H. Matthews
- Department of Medicine, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Keith W. Pratz
- Department of Medicine, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Martin P. Carroll
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 715 Biomedical Research Building II/III, 421 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Alexandrova E, Salvati A, Pecoraro G, Lamberti J, Melone V, Sellitto A, Rizzo F, Giurato G, Tarallo R, Nassa G, Weisz A. Histone Methyltransferase DOT1L as a Promising Epigenetic Target for Treatment of Solid Tumors. Front Genet 2022; 13:864612. [PMID: 35495127 PMCID: PMC9043692 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.864612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone lysine methyltransferase DOT1L (DOT1-like histone lysine methyltransferase) is responsible for the epigenetic regulation of gene expression through specific methylation of lysine79 residue of histone H3 (H3K79) in actively transcribed genes. Its normal activity is crucial for embryonic development and adult tissues functions, whereas its aberrant functioning is known to contribute to leukemogenesis. DOT1L is the only lysine methyltransferase that does not contain a SET domain, which is a feature that allowed the development of selective DOT1L inhibitors that are currently investigated in Phase I clinical trials for cancer treatment. Recently, abnormal expression of this enzyme has been associated with poor survival and increased aggressiveness of several solid tumors. In this review evidences of aberrant DOT1L expression and activity in breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, and other solid tumors, and its relationships with biological and clinical behavior of the disease and response to therapies, are summarized. Current knowledge of the structural basis of DOT1L ability to regulate cell proliferation, invasion, plasticity and stemness, cell cycle progression, cell-to-cell signaling, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and chemoresistance, through cooperation with several molecular partners including noncoding RNAs, is also reviewed. Finally, available options for the treatment of therapeutically challenging solid tumors by targeting DOT1L are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Alexandrova
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Annamaria Salvati
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU “S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pecoraro
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Jessica Lamberti
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Viola Melone
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Assunta Sellitto
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Roberta Tarallo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nassa
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Nassa, ; Alessandro Weisz,
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU “S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Nassa, ; Alessandro Weisz,
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Zaib S, Rana N, Khan I. Histone modifications and their role in epigenetics of cancer. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:2399-2411. [PMID: 34749606 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666211108105214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulations play a crucial role in the expression of various genes that are important in the normal cell function. Any alteration in these epigenetic mechanisms can lead to the modification of histone and DNA resulting in the silencing or enhanced expression of some genes causing various diseases. Acetylation, methylation, ribosylation or phosphorylation of histone proteins modifies its interaction with the DNA, consequently changing the ratio of heterochromatin and euchromatin. Terminal lysine residues of histone proteins serve as potential targets of such epigenetic modifications. The current review focuses on the histone modifications, their contributing factors, role of these modifications on metabolism leading to cancer and methylation of histone in cancer affects the DNA repair mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumera Zaib
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore-54590. Pakistan
| | - Nehal Rana
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore-54590. Pakistan
| | - Imtiaz Khan
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester M1 7DN. United Kingdom
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10
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Aljazi MB, Gao Y, Wu Y, Mias GI, He J. Histone H3K36me2-Specific Methyltransferase ASH1L Promotes MLL-AF9-Induced Leukemogenesis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:754093. [PMID: 34692539 PMCID: PMC8534482 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.754093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
ASH1L and MLL1 are two histone methyltransferases that facilitate transcriptional activation during normal development. However, the roles of ASH1L and its enzymatic activity in the development of MLL-rearranged leukemias are not fully elucidated in Ash1L gene knockout animal models. In this study, we used an Ash1L conditional knockout mouse model to show that loss of ASH1L in hematopoietic progenitor cells impaired the initiation of MLL-AF9-induced leukemic transformation in vitro. Furthermore, genetic deletion of ASH1L in the MLL-AF9-transformed cells impaired the maintenance of leukemic cells in vitro and largely blocked the leukemia progression in vivo. Importantly, the loss of ASH1L function in the Ash1L-deleted cells could be rescued by wild-type but not the catalytic-dead mutant ASH1L, suggesting the enzymatic activity of ASH1L was required for its function in promoting MLL-AF9-induced leukemic transformation. At the molecular level, ASH1L enhanced the MLL-AF9 target gene expression by directly binding to the gene promoters and modifying the local histone H3K36me2 levels. Thus, our study revealed the critical functions of ASH1L in promoting the MLL-AF9-induced leukemogenesis, which provides a molecular basis for targeting ASH1L and its enzymatic activity to treat MLL-AF9-induced leukemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad B Aljazi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Nature Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Yuen Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Nature Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Nature Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - George I Mias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Nature Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.,Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Jin He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Nature Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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11
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Blasi F, Bruckmann C. MEIS1 in Hematopoiesis and Cancer. How MEIS1-PBX Interaction Can Be Used in Therapy. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9040044. [PMID: 34698191 PMCID: PMC8544432 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently MEIS1 emerged as a major determinant of the MLL-r leukemic phenotype. The latest and most efficient drugs effectively decrease the levels of MEIS1 in cancer cells. Together with an overview of the latest drugs developed to target MEIS1 in MLL-r leukemia, we review, in detail, the role of MEIS1 in embryonic and adult hematopoiesis and suggest how a more profound knowledge of MEIS1 biochemistry can be used to design potent and effective drugs against MLL-r leukemia. In addition, we present data showing that the interaction between MEIS1 and PBX1 can be blocked efficiently and might represent a new avenue in anti-MLL-r and anti-leukemic therapy.
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12
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Chueahongthong F, Tima S, Chiampanichayakul S, Berkland C, Anuchapreeda S. Co-Treatments of Edible Curcumin from Turmeric Rhizomes and Chemotherapeutic Drugs on Cytotoxicity and FLT3 Protein Expression in Leukemic Stem Cells. Molecules 2021; 26:5785. [PMID: 34641328 PMCID: PMC8510311 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity of the combination treatment of a drug and curcumin (Cur) on leukemic stem cell and leukemic cell lines, including KG-1a and KG-1 (FLT3+ LSCs), EoL-1 (FLT3+ LCs), and U937 (FLT3- LCs). The cytotoxicity of co-treatments of doxorubicin (Dox) or idarubicin (Ida) at concentrations of the IC10-IC80 values and each concentration of Cur at the IC20, IC30, IC40, and IC50 values (conditions 1, 2, 3, and 4) was determined by MTT assays. Dox-Cur increased cytotoxicity in leukemic cells. Dox-Cur co-treatment showed additive and synergistic effects in several conditions. The effect of this co-treatment on FLT3 expression in KG-1a, KG-1, and EoL-1 cells was examined by Western blotting. Dox-Cur decreased FLT3 protein levels and total cell numbers in all the cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. In summary, this study exhibits a novel report of Dox-Cur co-treatment in both enhancing cytotoxicity of Dox and inhibiting cell proliferation via FLT3 protein expression in leukemia stem cells and leukemic cells. This is the option of leukemia treatment with reducing side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs to leukemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fah Chueahongthong
- Division of Clinical Microscopy, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (F.C.); (S.T.); (S.C.)
| | - Singkome Tima
- Division of Clinical Microscopy, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (F.C.); (S.T.); (S.C.)
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS-CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center for Research and Development of Natural Products for Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sawitree Chiampanichayakul
- Division of Clinical Microscopy, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (F.C.); (S.T.); (S.C.)
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS-CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Cory Berkland
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Songyot Anuchapreeda
- Division of Clinical Microscopy, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (F.C.); (S.T.); (S.C.)
- Cancer Research Unit of Associated Medical Sciences (AMS-CRU), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center for Research and Development of Natural Products for Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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13
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Panicker S, Venkatabalasubramanian S, Pathak S, Ramalingam S. The impact of fusion genes on cancer stem cells and drug resistance. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:3771-3783. [PMID: 34095988 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04203-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With ever increasing evidences on the role of fusion genes as the oncogenic protagonists in myriad cancers, it's time to explore if fusion genes can be the next generational drug targets in meeting the current demands of higher drug efficacy. Eliminating cancer stem cells (CSC) has become the current focus; however, we have reached a standstill in drug development owing to the lack of effective strategies to eradicate CSC. We believe that fusion genes could be the novel targets to overcome this limitation. The intriguing feature of fusion genes is that it dominantly impacts every aspect of CSC including self-renewal, differentiation, lineage commitment, tumorigenicity and stemness. Given the clinical success of fusion gene-based drugs in hematological cancers, our attempt to target fusion genes in eradicating CSC can be rewarding. As fusion genes are expressed explicitly in cancer cells, eradicating CSC by targeting fusion genes provides yet an another advantage of negligible patient side effects since normal cells remain unaffected by the drug. We hereby delineate the latest evidences on how fusion genes regulate CSC and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Panicker
- Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Surajit Pathak
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, 603103, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satish Ramalingam
- Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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14
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Hidalgo-Gómez G, Palacio-Garcia C, Gallur L, Blanco A, Tazón-Vega B, Saumell S, Martínez N, Murillo L, Murciano T, Velasco P, Bosch F, Diaz-Heredia C, Ortega M. Is acute lymphoblastic leukemia with mature B-cell phenotype and KMT2A rearrangements a new entity? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 62:2202-2210. [PMID: 33827367 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2021.1907375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The association between mature B-cell phenotype and KMT2A rearrangements in acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a very rare finding. It identifies a group of patients with similar clinical and biological characteristics that clearly differs from the entity B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma with t(v;11q23)/KMT2A-rearranged, which typically presents an immature pro B-cell phenotype. We describe the clinical-biological characteristics and disease outcome of three pediatric ALL patients with these features treated at our institution, and review 28 cases described in the literature. Most cases occur in children under 2 years-old, presenting a mature B-cell phenotype that uniformly expresses cytoplasmic and surface IgM with lambda light chain restriction, with heterogeneous co-expression of immaturity antigens. Patients do not have MYC rearrangements and all show KMT2A abnormalities, with 76% presenting t(9;11)(p21;q23)/MLLT3-KMT2A. These patients have an unfavorable clinical outcome and a 48% relapse rate. In-depth knowledge of this disease entity is needed to improve outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Hidalgo-Gómez
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Palacio-Garcia
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Gallur
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adoración Blanco
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bárbara Tazón-Vega
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Saumell
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noemí Martínez
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Murillo
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thais Murciano
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Velasco
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Bosch
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Diaz-Heredia
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Margarita Ortega
- Hematology Service, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Experimental Hematology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Grigsby SM, Friedman A, Chase J, Waas B, Ropa J, Serio J, Shen C, Muntean AG, Maillard I, Nikolovska-Coleska Z. Elucidating the Importance of DOT1L Recruitment in MLL-AF9 Leukemia and Hematopoiesis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:642. [PMID: 33562706 PMCID: PMC7914713 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
MLL1 (KMT2a) gene rearrangements underlie the pathogenesis of aggressive MLL-driven acute leukemia. AF9, one of the most common MLL-fusion partners, recruits the histone H3K79 methyltransferase DOT1L to MLL target genes, constitutively activating transcription of pro-leukemic targets. DOT1L has emerged as a therapeutic target in patients with MLL-driven leukemia. However, global DOT1L enzymatic inhibition may lead to off-target toxicities in non-leukemic cells that could decrease the therapeutic index of DOT1L inhibitors. To bypass this problem, we developed a novel approach targeting specific protein-protein interactions (PPIs) that mediate DOT1L recruitment to MLL target genes, and compared the effects of enzymatic and PPIs inhibition on leukemic and non-leukemic hematopoiesis. MLL-AF9 cell lines were engineered to carry mutant DOT1L constructs with a defective AF9 interaction site or lacking enzymatic activity. In cell lines expressing a DOT1L mutant with defective AF9 binding, we observed complete disruption of DOT1L recruitment to critical target genes and inhibition of leukemic cell growth. To evaluate the overall impact of DOT1L loss in non-leukemic hematopoiesis, we first assessed the impact of acute Dot1l inactivation in adult mouse bone marrow. We observed a rapid reduction in myeloid progenitor cell numbers within 7 days, followed by a loss of long-term hematopoietic stem cells. Furthermore, WT and PPI-deficient DOT1L mutants but not an enzymatically inactive DOT1L mutant were able to rescue sustained hematopoiesis. These data show that the AF9-DOT1L interaction is dispensable in non-leukemic hematopoiesis. Our findings support targeting of the MLL-AF9-DOT1L interaction as a promising therapeutic strategy that is selectively toxic to MLL-driven leukemic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sierrah M. Grigsby
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Ann Friedman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (A.F.); (J.C.); (B.W.); (I.M.)
| | - Jennifer Chase
- Department of Internal Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (A.F.); (J.C.); (B.W.); (I.M.)
| | - Bridget Waas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (A.F.); (J.C.); (B.W.); (I.M.)
| | - James Ropa
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Justin Serio
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Chenxi Shen
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
| | - Andrew G. Muntean
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
- Rogel Cancer Center, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
| | - Ivan Maillard
- Department of Internal Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (A.F.); (J.C.); (B.W.); (I.M.)
| | - Zaneta Nikolovska-Coleska
- Molecular and Celular Graduate Program, Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; (S.M.G.); (J.R.); (J.S.); (C.S.); (A.G.M.)
- Rogel Cancer Center, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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16
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Acute lymphoid leukemia etiopathogenesis. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:817-822. [PMID: 33438082 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-06073-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) is a type of hematological neoplasm that affects the precursor cells of strains B, T and NK, with a higher incidence in the pediatric range. The pathophysiology of ALL is characterized by chromosomal abnormalities and genetic alterations involved in the differentiation and proliferation of lymphoid precursor cells. Despite the lack of information in the literature, it is believed that leukemogenesis originates from a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors, which combined lead to cellular modifications. Environmental factors have been evaluated as possible predisposing factors in the development of ALL but there are still conflicting results in the world literature. In this context, the aim of the present review is to discuss the major exogenous factors regarding ALL.
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17
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Aberrant Activity of Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase 2 (KMT2) Complexes in Oncogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249340. [PMID: 33302406 PMCID: PMC7762615 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
KMT2 (histone-lysine N-methyltransferase subclass 2) complexes methylate lysine 4 on the histone H3 tail at gene promoters and gene enhancers and, thus, control the process of gene transcription. These complexes not only play an essential role in normal development but have also been described as involved in the aberrant growth of tissues. KMT2 mutations resulting from the rearrangements of the KMT2A (MLL1) gene at 11q23 are associated with pediatric mixed-lineage leukemias, and recent studies demonstrate that KMT2 genes are frequently mutated in many types of human cancers. Moreover, other components of the KMT2 complexes have been reported to contribute to oncogenesis. This review summarizes the recent advances in our knowledge of the role of KMT2 complexes in cell transformation. In addition, it discusses the therapeutic targeting of different components of the KMT2 complexes.
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18
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Ye X, Chen G, Jin J, Zhang B, Wang Y, Cai Z, Ye F. The Development of Inhibitors Targeting the Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1 (MLL1)-WD Repeat Domain 5 Protein (WDR5) Protein- Protein Interaction. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:5530-5542. [PMID: 31132972 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190528080514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1 (MLL1), an important member of Histone Methyltransferases (HMT) family, is capable of catalyzing mono-, di-, and trimethylation of Histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4). The optimal catalytic activity of MLL1 requires the formation of a core complex consisting of MLL1, WDR5, RbBP5, and ASH2L. The Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) between WDR5 and MLL1 plays an important role in abnormal gene expression during tumorigenesis, and disturbing this interaction may have a potential for the treatment of leukemia harboring MLL1 fusion proteins. In this review, we will summarize recent progress in the development of inhibitors targeting MLL1- WDR5 interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Ye
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gang Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jia Jin
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Binzhong Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Yinda Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Zhenhai Cai
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Fei Ye
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
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19
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Jamalpour M, Bergquist E, Welsh M. Absence of the Shb gene in mixed-lineage leukemia MLL-AF9 cells increases latency in mice despite higher proliferation rates in vitro. Exp Cell Res 2020; 397:112368. [PMID: 33220260 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.112368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) arises from several KMT2A-gene chromosomal translocations. Shb gene deficiency has been found to exhibit pleiotropic effects in different models of leukemia, and consequently, this study aimed to investigate MLL-AF9-induced leukemia in Shb deficiency. Bone marrow cells from wild type and Shb knockout (KO) mice were transduced with the MLL-AF9 gene. Shb KO MLL-AF9 cells proliferated at an increased rate, exhibited altered expression of certain cytokine genes (Kitl, Csf3, IL6, IL1b) and higher expression of cell cycle genes (Ccnd2, Ccne1). Mice receiving Shb KO MLL-AF9 cells showed longer latency without displaying any difference in rates of leukemic cell proliferation, indicating a dichotomy between the in vitro and in vivo phenotypes. The mice with Shb deficient MLL-AF9 cells had a lower content of leukemic bone marrow cells allowing elevated normal hematopoiesis, explaining the longer latency. Finally, Shb knockout GFP-positive bone marrow cells showed a higher percentage of cells expressing myeloid markers. The result suggests a role of Shb in the progression of leukemia and that the relevance of the Shb gene is context-dependent as inferred from the differences between the in vivo and in vitro responses. These findings help to obtain an increased understanding of human MLL-AF9 leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jamalpour
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eric Bergquist
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Michael Welsh
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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20
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Bian J, Dannappel M, Wan C, Firestein R. Transcriptional Regulation of Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Colorectal Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092125. [PMID: 32961708 PMCID: PMC7564852 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway exerts integral roles in embryogenesis and adult homeostasis. Aberrant activation of the pathway is implicated in growth-associated diseases and cancers, especially as a key driver in the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Loss or inactivation of Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) results in constitutive activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which is considered as an initiating event in the development of CRC. Increased Wnt/β-catenin signaling is observed in virtually all CRC patients, underscoring the importance of this pathway for therapeutic intervention. Prior studies have deciphered the regulatory networks required for the cytoplasmic stabilisation or degradation of the Wnt pathway effector, β-catenin. However, the mechanism whereby nuclear β-catenin drives or inhibits expression of Wnt target genes is more diverse and less well characterised. Here, we describe a brief synopsis of the core canonical Wnt pathway components, set the spotlight on nuclear mediators and highlight the emerging role of chromatin regulators as modulators of β-catenin-dependent transcription activity and oncogenic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Bian
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Marius Dannappel
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Chunhua Wan
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; (J.B.); (M.D.); (C.W.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence:
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21
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Chen ZH, Chen TQ, Zeng ZC, Wang D, Han C, Sun YM, Huang W, Sun LY, Fang K, Chen YQ, Luo XQ, Wang WT. Nuclear export of chimeric mRNAs depends on an lncRNA-triggered autoregulatory loop in blood malignancies. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:566. [PMID: 32703936 PMCID: PMC7378249 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02795-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant chromosomal translocations leading to tumorigenesis have been ascribed to the heterogeneously oncogenic functions. However, how fusion transcripts exporting remains to be declared. Here, we showed that the nuclear speckle-specific long noncoding RNA MALAT1 controls chimeric mRNA export processes and regulates myeloid progenitor cell differentiation in malignant hematopoiesis. We demonstrated that MALAT1 regulates chimeric mRNAs export in an m6A-dependent manner and thus controls hematopoietic cell differentiation. Specifically, reducing MALAT1 or m6A methyltransferases and the 'reader' YTHDC1 result in the universal retention of distinct oncogenic gene mRNAs in nucleus. Mechanically, MALAT1 hijacks both the chimeric mRNAs and fusion proteins in nuclear speckles during chromosomal translocations and mediates the colocalization of oncogenic fusion proteins with METTL14. MALAT1 and fusion protein complexes serve as a functional loading bridge for the interaction of chimeric mRNA and METTL14. This study demonstrated a universal mechanism of chimeric mRNA transport that involves lncRNA-fusion protein-m6A autoregulatory loop for controlling myeloid cell differentiation. Targeting the lncRNA-triggered autoregulatory loop to disrupt chimeric mRNA transport might represent a new common paradigm for treating blood malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hua Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Qi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhan-Cheng Zeng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, 510060, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Cai Han
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Meng Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin-Yu Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue-Qin Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Qun Luo
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Tao Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China.
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22
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Chiarella E, Codispoti B, Aloisio A, Cosentino EG, Scicchitano S, Montalcini Y, Lico D, Morrone G, Mesuraca M, Bond HM. Zoledronic acid inhibits the growth of leukemic MLL-AF9 transformed hematopoietic cells. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04020. [PMID: 32529062 PMCID: PMC7283156 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A leukemic in vitro model produced by transducing Cord Blood derived-hematopoietic CD34+ cells with the MLL-AF9 translocation resulting in the oncogenic fusion protein, is used to assess for sensitivity to Zoledronic acid. These cells are practically immortalized and are of myeloid origin. Proliferation, clonogenic and stromal co-culture assays showed that the MLL-AF9 cells were considerably more sensitive to Zoledronic acid than normal hematopoietic CD34+ cells or MS-5 stromal cells. The MLL-AF9 cells were notably more inhibited by Zoledronic acid when cultured as colonies in 3 dimensions, requiring cell-cell contacts compared to suspension expansion cultures. This is coherent with the mechanism of action of Zoledronic acid inhibiting farnesyl diphosphate synthase which results in a block in prenylation of GTPases such that their role in the membrane is compromised for cell-cell contacts. Zoledronic acid can be proposed to target the MLL-AF9 leukemic stem cells before they emerge from the hematopoietic niche, which being in proximity to bone osteoclasts where Zoledronic acid is sequestered can be predicted to result in sufficient levels to result in an anti-leukemic action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Chiarella
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Bruna Codispoti
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,Tecnologica Research Institute-Marrelli Health, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Annamaria Aloisio
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Emanuela G Cosentino
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.,Exiris S.r.l., 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Stefania Scicchitano
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ylenia Montalcini
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Daniela Lico
- Department of Obstetrics & Ginecology, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morrone
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Mesuraca
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Heather M Bond
- Laboratory of Molecular Haematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology, Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Banday S, Farooq Z, Ganai SA, Altaf M. Therapeutic strategies against hDOT1L as a potential drug target in MLL-rearranged leukemias. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:73. [PMID: 32450905 PMCID: PMC7249331 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00860-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic intervention of proteins participating in chromatin-mediated signaling with small-molecules is a novel option to reprogram expression networks for restraining disease states. Protein methyltransferases form the prominent family of such proteins regulating gene expression via epigenetic mechanisms thereby representing novel targets for pharmacological intervention. Disruptor of telomeric silencing, hDot1L is the only non-SET domain containing histone methyltransferase that methylates histone H3 at lysine 79. H3K79 methylation mediated by hDot1L plays a crucial role in mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) pathosis. MLL fusion protein mediated mistargeting of DOT1L to aberrant gene locations results in ectopic H3K79 methylation culminating in aberrant expression of leukemogenic genes like HOXA9 and MEIS1. hDOT1L has thus been proposed as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in MLL. This review presents the general overview of hDOT1L and its functional role in distinct biological processes. Furthermore, we discuss various therapeutic strategies against hDOT1L as a promising drug target to vanquish therapeutically challenging MLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Banday
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India
| | - Zeenat Farooq
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India
| | - Shabir Ahmad Ganai
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India.,Present Address: Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Kashmir, Wadura, Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, 193201, India
| | - Mohammad Altaf
- Chromatin and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India. .,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, India.
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Understanding the interplay between CpG island-associated gene promoters and H3K4 methylation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194567. [PMID: 32360393 PMCID: PMC7294231 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The precise regulation of gene transcription is required to establish and maintain cell type-specific gene expression programs during multicellular development. In addition to transcription factors, chromatin, and its chemical modification, play a central role in regulating gene expression. In vertebrates, DNA is pervasively methylated at CG dinucleotides, a modification that is repressive to transcription. However, approximately 70% of vertebrate gene promoters are associated with DNA elements called CpG islands (CGIs) that are refractory to DNA methylation. CGIs integrate the activity of a range of chromatin-regulating factors that can post-translationally modify histones and modulate gene expression. This is exemplified by the trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me3), which is enriched at CGI-associated gene promoters and correlates with transcriptional activity. Through studying H3K4me3 at CGIs it has become clear that CGIs shape the distribution of H3K4me3 and, in turn, H3K4me3 influences the chromatin landscape at CGIs. Here we will discuss our understanding of the emerging relationship between CGIs, H3K4me3, and gene expression.
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25
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Basu S, Nandy A, Biswas D. Keeping RNA polymerase II on the run: Functions of MLL fusion partners in transcriptional regulation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194563. [PMID: 32348849 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Since the identification of key MLL fusion partners as transcription elongation factors regulating expression of HOX cluster genes during hematopoiesis, extensive work from the last decade has resulted in significant progress in our overall mechanistic understanding of role of MLL fusion partner proteins in transcriptional regulation of diverse set of genes beyond just the HOX cluster. In this review, we are going to detail overall understanding of role of MLL fusion partner proteins in transcriptional regulation and thus provide mechanistic insights into possible MLL fusion protein-mediated transcriptional misregulation leading to aberrant hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subham Basu
- Laboratory of Transcription Biology, Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 32, India
| | - Arijit Nandy
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Debabrata Biswas
- Laboratory of Transcription Biology, Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 32, India.
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26
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Invariant phenotype and molecular association of biallelic TET2 mutant myeloid neoplasia. Blood Adv 2020; 3:339-349. [PMID: 30709865 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2018024216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic TET2 mutations (TET2 MT) are frequent in myeloid neoplasia (MN), particularly chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). TET2 MT includes mostly loss-of-function/hypomorphic hits. Impaired TET2 activity skews differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells toward proliferating myeloid precursors. This study was prompted by the observation of frequent biallelic TET2 gene inactivations (biTET2 i ) in CMML. We speculated that biTET2 i might be associated with distinct clinicohematological features. We analyzed TET2 MT in 1045 patients with MN. Of 82 biTET2 i cases, 66 were biTET2 MT, 13 were hemizygous TET2 MT, and 3 were homozygous TET2 MT (uniparental disomy); the remaining patients (denoted biTET2 - hereafter) were either monoallelic TET2 MT (n = 96) or wild-type TET2 (n = 823). Truncation mutations were found in 83% of biTET2 i vs 65% of biTET2 - cases (P = .02). TET2 hits were founder lesions in 72% of biTET2 i vs 38% of biTET2 - cases (P < .0001). In biTET2 i , significantly concurrent hits included SRSF2 MT (33%; P < .0001) and KRAS/NRAS MT (16%; P = .03) as compared with biTET2 - When the first TET2 hit was ancestral in biTET2 i , the most common subsequent hits affected a second TET2 MT, followed by SRSF2 MT, ASXL1 MT, RAS MT, and DNMT3A MT BiTET2 i patients without any monocytosis showed an absence of SRSF2 MT BiTET2 i patients were older and had monocytosis, CMML, normal karyotypes, and lower-risk disease compared with biTET2 - patients. Hence, while a second TET2 hit occurred frequently, biTET2 i did not portend faster progression but rather determined monocytic differentiation, consistent with its prevalence in CMML. Additionally, biTET2 i showed lower odds of cytopenias and marrow blasts (≥5%) and higher odds of myeloid dysplasia and marrow hypercellularity. Thus, biTET2 i might represent an auxiliary assessment tool in MN.
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27
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Liu K, Min J. Structural Basis for the Recognition of Non-methylated DNA by the CXXC Domain. J Mol Biol 2020:S0022-2836(19)30591-1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Zhu Q, Fang L, Heuberger J, Kranz A, Schipper J, Scheckenbach K, Vidal RO, Sunaga-Franze DY, Müller M, Wulf-Goldenberg A, Sauer S, Birchmeier W. The Wnt-Driven Mll1 Epigenome Regulates Salivary Gland and Head and Neck Cancer. Cell Rep 2020; 26:415-428.e5. [PMID: 30625324 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.12.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified a regulatory system that acts downstream of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in salivary gland and head and neck carcinomas. We show in a mouse tumor model of K14-Cre-induced Wnt/β-catenin gain-of-function and Bmpr1a loss-of-function mutations that tumor-propagating cells exhibit increased Mll1 activity and genome-wide increased H3K4 tri-methylation at promoters. Null mutations of Mll1 in tumor mice and in xenotransplanted human head and neck tumors resulted in loss of self-renewal of tumor-propagating cells and in block of tumor formation but did not alter normal tissue homeostasis. CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis and pharmacological interference of Mll1 at sequences that inhibit essential protein-protein interactions or the SET enzyme active site also blocked the self-renewal of mouse and human tumor-propagating cells. Our work provides strong genetic evidence for a crucial role of Mll1 in solid tumors. Moreover, inhibitors targeting specific Mll1 interactions might offer additional directions for therapies to treat these aggressive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qionghua Zhu
- Cancer Research Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Liang Fang
- Cancer Research Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany; Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen 518055, China; Medi-X Institute, SUSTech Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Julian Heuberger
- Cancer Research Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Kranz
- Biotechnology Center, Technical University, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jörg Schipper
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kathrin Scheckenbach
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ramon Oliveira Vidal
- Systems Biology Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniele Yumi Sunaga-Franze
- Systems Biology Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Marion Müller
- Cancer Research Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Sascha Sauer
- Systems Biology Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Walter Birchmeier
- Cancer Research Program, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany.
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29
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Chen WL, Li DD, Chen X, Wang YZ, Xu JJ, Jiang ZY, You QD, Guo XK. Proton pump inhibitors selectively suppress MLL rearranged leukemia cells via disrupting MLL1-WDR5 protein-protein interaction. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 188:112027. [PMID: 31923859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.112027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Genetic rearrangements of the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) leading to oncogenic MLL-fusion proteins (MLL-FPs). MLL-FPs occur in about 10% of acute leukemias and are associated with dismal prognosis and treatment outcomes which emphasized the need for new therapeutic strategies. In present study, by a cell-based screening in-house compound collection, we disclosed that Rabeprazole specially inhibited the proliferation of leukemia cells harboring MLL-FPs with little toxicity to non-MLL cells. Mechanism study showed Rabeprazole down-regulated the transcription of MLL-FPs related Hox and Meis1 genes and effectively inhibited MLL1 H3K4 methyltransferase (HMT) activity in MV4-11 cells bearing MLL-AF4 fusion protein. Displacement of MLL1 probe from WDR5 protein suggested that Rabeprazole may inhibit MLL1 HMT activity through disturbing MLL1-WDR5 protein-protein interaction. Moreover, other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) also indicated the inhibition activity of MLL1-WDR5. Preliminary SARs showed the structural characteristics of PPIs were also essential for the activities of MLL1-WDR5 inhibition. Our results indicated the drug reposition of PPIs for MLL-rearranged leukemias and provided new insight for further optimization of targeting MLL1 methyltransferase activity, the MLL1-WDR5 interaction or WDR5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Lin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Dong-Dong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ying-Zhe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jun-Jie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zheng-Yu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xiao-Ke Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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30
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Nagata Y, Makishima H, Kerr CM, Przychodzen BP, Aly M, Goyal A, Awada H, Asad MF, Kuzmanovic T, Suzuki H, Yoshizato T, Yoshida K, Chiba K, Tanaka H, Shiraishi Y, Miyano S, Mukherjee S, LaFramboise T, Nazha A, Sekeres MA, Radivoyevitch T, Haferlach T, Ogawa S, Maciejewski JP. Invariant patterns of clonal succession determine specific clinical features of myelodysplastic syndromes. Nat Commun 2019; 10:5386. [PMID: 31772163 PMCID: PMC6879617 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13001-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) arise in older adults through stepwise acquisitions of multiple somatic mutations. Here, analyzing 1809 MDS patients, we infer clonal architecture by using a stringent, the single-cell sequencing validated PyClone bioanalytic pipeline, and assess the position of the mutations within the clonal architecture. All 3,971 mutations are grouped based on their rank in the deduced clonal hierarchy (dominant and secondary). We evaluated how they affect the resultant morphology, progression, survival and response to therapies. Mutations of SF3B1, U2AF1, and TP53 are more likely to be dominant, those of ASXL1, CBL, and KRAS are secondary. Among distinct combinations of dominant/secondary mutations we identified 37 significant relationships, of which 12 affect clinical phenotypes, 5 cooperatively associate with poor prognosis. They also predict response to hypomethylating therapies. The clonal hierarchy has distinct ranking and the resultant invariant combinations of dominant/secondary mutations yield novel insights into the specific clinical phenotype of MDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasunobu Nagata
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Hideki Makishima
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Cassandra M Kerr
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Bartlomiej P Przychodzen
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mai Aly
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Abhinav Goyal
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hassan Awada
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mohammad Fahad Asad
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Teodora Kuzmanovic
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hiromichi Suzuki
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuichi Yoshizato
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yoshida
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kenichi Chiba
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tanaka
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Shiraishi
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Miyano
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sudipto Mukherjee
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Thomas LaFramboise
- Department ofGenetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Aziz Nazha
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mikkael A Sekeres
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tomas Radivoyevitch
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Seishi Ogawa
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jaroslaw P Maciejewski
- Department of Translational Hematology & Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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31
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Saad AA, Beshlawi I, Zachariah M, Wali Y. KMT2A-MLLT3 AML Masquerading as JMML may Disguise Fatal Leukemia. Oman Med J 2019; 34:553-555. [PMID: 31745420 PMCID: PMC6851066 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2019.99] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a mortality case showcasing t(9;11)-positive acute myeloid leukemia/juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (AML/JMML) overlap to shed light on this lethal molecular subtype of AML. In this case, the flawed assumption that JMML was to blame impeded the prompt undertaking of appropriate treatment for AML in our 14-month-old patient. This article aims to scrutinize the catastrophic sequel of such an overlap in leukemia and refutes the contemporary diagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Abdullah Saad
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and HSCT Unit, Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Ismail Beshlawi
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and HSCT Unit, Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mathew Zachariah
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and HSCT Unit, Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Yasser Wali
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and HSCT Unit, Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
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32
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Song X, Yang L, Wang M, Gu Y, Ye B, Fan Z, Xu RM, Yang N. A higher-order configuration of the heterodimeric DOT1L–AF10 coiled-coil domains potentiates their leukemogenenic activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:19917-19923. [DOI: www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1904672116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations of
MLL1
(Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1) yield oncogenic chimeric proteins containing the N-terminal portion of MLL1 fused with distinct partners. The MLL1–AF10 fusion causes leukemia through recruiting the H3K79 histone methyltransferase DOT1L via AF10’s octapeptide and leucine zipper (OM-LZ) motifs. Yet, the precise interaction sites in DOT1L, detailed interaction modes between AF10 and DOT1L, and the functional configuration of MLL1–AF10 in leukeomogenesis remain unknown. Through a combined approach of structural and functional analyses, we found that the LZ domain of AF10 interacts with the coiled-coil domains of DOT1L through a conserved binding mode and discovered that the C-terminal end of the LZ domain and the OM domain of AF10 mediate the formation of a DOT1L–AF10 octamer via tetramerization of the binary complex. We reveal that the oligomerization ability of the DOT1L–AF10 complex is essential for MLL1–AF10’s leukemogenic function. These findings provide insights into the molecular basis of pathogenesis by MLL1 rearrangements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosheng Song
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, 300353 Tianjin, China
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China
| | - Liuliu Yang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China
| | - Mingzhu Wang
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, 230601 Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yue Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, 300353 Tianjin, China
| | - Buqing Ye
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
| | - Zusen Fan
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China
| | - Rui-Ming Xu
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China
| | - Na Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, 300353 Tianjin, China
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33
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Kaustov L, Lemak A, Wu H, Faini M, Fan L, Fang X, Zeng H, Duan S, Allali-Hassani A, Li F, Wei Y, Vedadi M, Aebersold R, Wang Y, Houliston S, Arrowsmith CH. The MLL1 trimeric catalytic complex is a dynamic conformational ensemble stabilized by multiple weak interactions. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:9433-9447. [PMID: 31400120 PMCID: PMC6755125 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone H3K4 methylation is an epigenetic mark associated with actively transcribed genes. This modification is catalyzed by the mixed lineage leukaemia (MLL) family of histone methyltransferases including MLL1, MLL2, MLL3, MLL4, SET1A and SET1B. The catalytic activity of this family is dependent on interactions with additional conserved proteins, but the structural basis for subunit assembly and the mechanism of regulation is not well understood. We used a hybrid methods approach to study the assembly and biochemical function of the minimally active MLL1 complex (MLL1, WDR5 and RbBP5). A combination of small angle X-ray scattering, cross-linking mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and computational modeling were used to generate a dynamic ensemble model in which subunits are assembled via multiple weak interaction sites. We identified a new interaction site between the MLL1 SET domain and the WD40 β-propeller domain of RbBP5, and demonstrate the susceptibility of the catalytic function of the complex to disruption of individual interaction sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilia Kaustov
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Alexander Lemak
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Hong Wu
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Marco Faini
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Lixin Fan
- The Small-Angel X-ray Scattering Core Facility, Center for Cancer Research of National Cancer Institute, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Xianyang Fang
- The Small-Angel X-ray Scattering Core Facility, Center for Cancer Research of National Cancer Institute, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Hong Zeng
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Shili Duan
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Abdellah Allali-Hassani
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Yong Wei
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ruedi Aebersold
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Yunxing Wang
- The Small-Angel X-ray Scattering Core Facility, Center for Cancer Research of National Cancer Institute, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Scott Houliston
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Cheryl H Arrowsmith
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, 101 College Street, MaRS Centre, South Tower, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
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A higher-order configuration of the heterodimeric DOT1L-AF10 coiled-coil domains potentiates their leukemogenenic activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:19917-19923. [PMID: 31527241 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1904672116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations of MLL1 (Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1) yield oncogenic chimeric proteins containing the N-terminal portion of MLL1 fused with distinct partners. The MLL1-AF10 fusion causes leukemia through recruiting the H3K79 histone methyltransferase DOT1L via AF10's octapeptide and leucine zipper (OM-LZ) motifs. Yet, the precise interaction sites in DOT1L, detailed interaction modes between AF10 and DOT1L, and the functional configuration of MLL1-AF10 in leukeomogenesis remain unknown. Through a combined approach of structural and functional analyses, we found that the LZ domain of AF10 interacts with the coiled-coil domains of DOT1L through a conserved binding mode and discovered that the C-terminal end of the LZ domain and the OM domain of AF10 mediate the formation of a DOT1L-AF10 octamer via tetramerization of the binary complex. We reveal that the oligomerization ability of the DOT1L-AF10 complex is essential for MLL1-AF10's leukemogenic function. These findings provide insights into the molecular basis of pathogenesis by MLL1 rearrangements.
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Ye F, Huang J, Wang H, Luo C, Zhao K. Targeting epigenetic machinery: Emerging novel allosteric inhibitors. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 204:107406. [PMID: 31521697 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.107406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics has emerged as an extremely exciting fast-growing area of biomedical research in post genome era. Epigenetic dysfunction is tightly related with various diseases such as cancer and aging related degeneration, potentiating epigenetics modulators as important therapeutics targets. Indeed, inhibitors of histone deacetylase and DNA methyltransferase have been approved for treating blood tumor malignancies, whereas inhibitors of histone methyltransferase and histone acetyl-lysine recognizer bromodomain are in clinical stage. However, it remains a great challenge to discover potent and selective inhibitors by targeting catalytic site, as the same subfamily of epigenetic enzymes often share high sequence identity and very conserved catalytic core pocket. It is well known that epigenetic modifications are usually carried out by multi-protein complexes, and activation of catalytic subunit is often tightly regulated by other interactive protein component, especially in disease conditions. Therefore, it is not unusual that epigenetic complex machinery may exhibit allosteric regulation site induced by protein-protein interactions. Targeting allosteric site emerges as a compelling alternative strategy to develop epigenetic drugs with enhanced druggability and pharmacological profiles. In this review, we highlight recent progress in the development of allosteric inhibitors for epigenetic complexes through targeting protein-protein interactions. We also summarized the status of clinical applications of those inhibitors. Finally, we provide perspectives of future novel allosteric epigenetic machinery modulators emerging from otherwise undruggable single protein target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, China; College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Jing Huang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hongbo Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Cheng Luo
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, South Dong Qing Road, Guizhou 550025, China.
| | - Kehao Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
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Hurtz C, Chan LN, Geng H, Ballabio E, Xiao G, Deb G, Khoury H, Chen CW, Armstrong SA, Chen J, Ernst P, Melnick A, Milne T, Müschen M. Rationale for targeting BCL6 in MLL-rearranged acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Genes Dev 2019; 33:1265-1279. [PMID: 31395741 PMCID: PMC6719625 DOI: 10.1101/gad.327593.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements of the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene occur in ∼10% of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and define a group of patients with dismal outcomes. Immunohistochemical staining of bone marrow biopsies from most of these patients revealed aberrant expression of BCL6, a transcription factor that promotes oncogenic B-cell transformation and drug resistance in B-ALL. Our genetic and ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation [ChIP] combined with high-throughput sequencing) analyses showed that MLL-AF4 and MLL-ENL fusions directly bound to the BCL6 promoter and up-regulated BCL6 expression. While oncogenic MLL fusions strongly induced aberrant BCL6 expression in B-ALL cells, germline MLL was required to up-regulate Bcl6 in response to physiological stimuli during normal B-cell development. Inducible expression of Bcl6 increased MLL mRNA levels, which was reversed by genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of Bcl6, suggesting a positive feedback loop between MLL and BCL6. Highlighting the central role of BCL6 in MLL-rearranged B-ALL, conditional deletion and pharmacological inhibition of BCL6 compromised leukemogenesis in transplant recipient mice and restored sensitivity to vincristine chemotherapy in MLL-rearranged B-ALL patient samples. Oncogenic MLL fusions strongly induced transcriptional activation of the proapoptotic BH3-only molecule BIM, while BCL6 was required to curb MLL-induced expression of BIM. Notably, peptide (RI-BPI) and small molecule (FX1) BCL6 inhibitors derepressed BIM and synergized with the BH3-mimetic ABT-199 in eradicating MLL-rearranged B-ALL cells. These findings uncover MLL-dependent transcriptional activation of BCL6 as a previously unrecognized requirement of malignant transformation by oncogenic MLL fusions and identified BCL6 as a novel target for the treatment of MLL-rearranged B-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hurtz
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Lai N Chan
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Huimin Geng
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Erica Ballabio
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Molecular Haematology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, United Kingdom
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Gauri Deb
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA
| | - Haytham Khoury
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA
| | - Scott A Armstrong
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA
| | - Patricia Ernst
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Ari Melnick
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Thomas Milne
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Molecular Haematology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Müschen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Monrovia, California 91016, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
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Balkin DM, Poranki M, Forester CM, Dorsey MJ, Slavotinek A, Pomerantz JH. TASP1 mutation in a female with craniofacial anomalies, anterior segment dysgenesis, congenital immunodeficiency and macrocytic anemia. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e818. [PMID: 31350873 PMCID: PMC6732342 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Threonine Aspartase 1 (Taspase 1) is a highly conserved site‐specific protease whose substrates are broad‐acting nuclear transcription factors that govern diverse biological programs, such as organogenesis, oncogenesis, and tumor progression. To date, no single base pair mutations in Taspase 1 have been implicated in human disease. Methods A female infant with a new pattern of diagnostic abnormalities was identified, including severe craniofacial anomalies, anterior and posterior segment dysgenesis, immunodeficiency, and macrocytic anemia. Trio‐based whole exome sequencing was performed to identify disease‐causing variants. Results Whole exome sequencing revealed a normal female karyotype (46,XX) without increased regions of homozygosity. The proband was heterozygous for a de novo missense variant, c.1027G>A predicting p.(Val343Met), in the TASP1 gene (NM_017714.2). This variant has not been observed in population databases and is predicted to be deleterious. Conclusion One human patient has been reported previously with a large TASP1 deletion and substantial evidence exists regarding the role of several known Taspase 1 substrates in human craniofacial and hematopoietic disorders. Moreover, Taspase 1 deficiency in mice results in craniofacial, ophthalmological and structural brain defects. Taken together, there exists substantial evidence to conclude that the TASP1 variant, p.(Val343Met), is pathogenic in this patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Balkin
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Craniofacial Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Menitha Poranki
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Craig M Forester
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Morna J Dorsey
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Anne Slavotinek
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jason H Pomerantz
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Craniofacial Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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38
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Yu H, Sun J, Zhao C, Wang H, Liu Y, Xiong J, Chang J, Wang M, Wang W, Ye D, Zhou H, Yu T. SET domain containing protein 5 (SETD5) enhances tumor cell invasion and is associated with a poor prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:736. [PMID: 31345185 PMCID: PMC6659235 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5944-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SET domain containing 5 (SETD5) is related to the aggressiveness of prostate and mammary cancers, but its association with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to determine the expression pattern and function of SETD5 in NSCLC. Methods SETD5 was detected by immunohistochemical analysis in 147 patients with non-small cell lung cancer. SETD5 was overexpressed in A549 cells or suppressed with siRNA in H1299 cells. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed. The expression levels of SETD5, p-AKT/AKT, Snail, p-JNK/JNK, Slug, E-cadherin, Zo-1, p-P38/P38, occludin, α-catenin, p-ERK/ERK, and p-P90RSK/ P90RSK were assessed by western blot. Results Online analysis of overall survival in 1928 patients with NSCLC showed that the SETD5 gene was related to worse overall survival (OS)(P < 0.001). The positive expression rate of SETD5 in noncancerous tissues was lower than that in cancerous tissues (16.7% vs. 44.2%, P < 0.001). SETD5 was significantly correlated with advanced TNM stage (P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P < 0.001) and overall survival rate (P < 0.001). Overexpression of SETD5 in A549 cells increased migration and invasion, while deletion of SETD5 in H1299 cells decreased migration and invasion. After overexpression of SETD5, the expression of ZO-1 was downregulated, and that of Snail was upregulated. After overexpression of SETD5, the levels of p-ERK and its downstream factor p-p90rsk increased. Conclusion These results suggest that SETD5 could regulate p-P90RSK and facilitate the migration and invasion of NSCLC and may be related to the poor prognosis of patients with NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairu Yu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jiayi Sun
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Congxuan Zhao
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Haotian Wang
- The First Clinical College, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section of Lushun South Road, Dalian City, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yeqiu Liu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jiajia Xiong
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jing Chang
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Mixue Wang
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Dongman Ye
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Hongyan Zhou
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China. .,Department of Medical Imaging, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning Province, China.
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Kumar A, Kumari N, Nallabelli N, Prasad R. Pathogenic and Therapeutic Role of H3K4 Family of Methylases and Demethylases in Cancers. Indian J Clin Biochem 2019; 34:123-132. [PMID: 31092985 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-019-00828-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Histone modifications occupy an essential position in the epigenetic landscape of the cell, and their alterations have been linked to cancers. Histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methylation has emerged as a critical epigenetic cue for the regulation of gene transcription through dynamic modulation by several H3K4 methyltransferases (writers) and demethylases (erasers). Any disturbance in the delicate balance of writers and erasers can result in the mis-regulation of H3K4 methylation, which has been demonstrated in several human cancers. Therefore, H3K4 methylation has been recognized as a putative therapeutic or prognostic tool and drug trials of different inhibitors of this process have demonstrated promising results. Henceforth, more detailed knowledge of H3K4 methylation is utmost important for elucidating the complex cellular processes, which might help in improving the disease outcome. The primary focus of this review will be directed on deciphering the role of H3K4 methylation along with its writers/erasers in different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aman Kumar
- 1Department of Biochemistry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector 12, Chandigarh, India
| | - Niti Kumari
- 1Department of Biochemistry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector 12, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nayudu Nallabelli
- 2Department of Endocrinology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector 12, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rajendra Prasad
- 1Department of Biochemistry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector 12, Chandigarh, India
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40
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Filbin M, Monje M. Developmental origins and emerging therapeutic opportunities for childhood cancer. Nat Med 2019; 25:367-376. [PMID: 30842674 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-019-0383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in children in developed countries. Arising in the context of actively growing tissues, childhood cancers are fundamentally diseases of dysregulated development. Childhood cancers exhibit a lower overall mutational burden than adult cancers, and recent sequencing studies have revealed that the genomic events central to childhood oncogenesis include mutations resulting in broad epigenetic changes or translocations that result in fusion oncoproteins. Here, we will review the developmental origins of childhood cancers, epigenetic dysregulation in tissue stem/precursor cells in numerous examples of childhood cancer oncogenesis and emerging therapeutic opportunities aimed at both cell-intrinsic and microenvironmental targets together with new insights into the mechanisms underlying long-term sequelae of childhood cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariella Filbin
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorder Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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41
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Dal Molin A, Bresolin S, Gaffo E, Tretti C, Boldrin E, Meyer LH, Guglielmelli P, Vannucchi AM, te Kronnie G, Bortoluzzi S. CircRNAs Are Here to Stay: A Perspective on the MLL Recombinome. Front Genet 2019; 10:88. [PMID: 30815012 PMCID: PMC6382020 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations harbored by cancer genomes are important oncogenic drivers. In MLL rearranged acute leukemia (MLLre) MLL/KMT2A fuses with over 90 partner genes. Mechanistic studies provided clues of MLL fusion protein leukemogenic potential, but models failed to fully recapitulate the disease. Recently, expression of oncogenic fusion circular RNAs (f-circ) by MLL-AF9 fusion was proven. This discovery, together with emerging data on the importance and diversity of circRNAs formed the incentive to study the circRNAs of the MLL recombinome. Through interactions with other RNAs, such as microRNAs, and with proteins, circRNAs regulate cellular processes also related to cancer development. CircRNAs can translate into functional peptides too. MLL and most of the 90 MLL translocation partners do express circRNAs and exploration of our RNA-seq dataset of sorted blood cell populations provided new data on alternative circular isoform generation and expression variability of circRNAs of the MLL recombinome. Further, we provided evidence that rearrangements of MLL and three of the main translocation partner genes can impact circRNA expression, supported also by preliminary observations in leukemic cells. The emerging picture underpins the view that circRNAs are worthwhile to be considered when studying MLLre leukemias and provides a new perspective on the impact of chromosomal translocations in cancer cells at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Dal Molin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Silvia Bresolin
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Enrico Gaffo
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Caterina Tretti
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Elena Boldrin
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lueder H. Meyer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Paola Guglielmelli
- CRIMM, Center for Research and Innovation of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, AOU Careggi, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro M. Vannucchi
- CRIMM, Center for Research and Innovation of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, AOU Careggi, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Zhang J, Yang F, Qiu HY, Wu Q, Kong DQ, Zhou J, Han Y, Wu DP. Anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptors T cells for the treatment of relapsed or refractory E2A-PBX1 positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia: report of three cases. Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:1454-1461. [PMID: 30714847 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2018.1533127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui-Ying Qiu
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Dan-Qing Kong
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yue Han
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - De-Pei Wu
- Department of Hematology, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Ye X, Zhang R, Lian F, Zhang W, Lu W, Han J, Zhang N, Jin J, Luo C, Chen K, Ye F, Ding H. The identification of novel small-molecule inhibitors targeting WDR5-MLL1 interaction through fluorescence polarization based high-throughput screening. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2018; 29:638-645. [PMID: 30626558 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2018.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The protein-protein interaction between WDR5 (WD40 repeat protein 5) and MLL1 (mixed-lineage leukemia 1) is important for maintaining optimal H3K4 methyltransferase activity of MLL1. Dysregulation of MLL1 catalytic function is relevant to mixed-lineage leukemia, and targeting WDR5-MLL1 interaction could be a promising therapeutic strategy for leukemia harboring MLL1 fusion proteins. To date, several peptidomimetic and non-peptidomimetic small-molecule inhibitors targeting WDR5-MLL1 interaction have been reported, yet the discovery walk of new drugs inhibiting MLL1 methytransferase activity is still in its infancy. It's urgent to find other small-molecule WDR5-MLL1 inhibitors with novel scaffolds. In this study, through fluorescence polarization (FP)-based high throughput screening, several small-molecule inhibitors with potent inhibitory activities in vitro against WDR5-MLL1 interaction were discovered. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) assays were carried out to confirm the direct binding between hit compounds and WDR5. Subsequent similarity-based analog searching of the 4 hits led to several inhibitors with better activity, among them, DC_M5_2 displayed highest inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 9.63 ± 1.46 µM. Furthermore, a molecular docking study was performed and disclosed the binding modes and interaction mechanisms between two most potent inhibitors and WDR5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Ye
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Rukang Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Fulin Lian
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Weiyao Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Wenchao Lu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jie Han
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Naixia Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jia Jin
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; Open Studio for Druggability Research of Marine Natural Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), 1 Wenhai Road, Aoshanwei, Jimo, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Fei Ye
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Hong Ding
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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Abstract
Introduction: Epigenetic dysregulation drives or supports numerous human cancers. The chromatin landscape in cancer cells is often marked by abnormal histone post-translational modification (PTM) patterns and by aberrant assembly and recruitment of protein complexes to specific genomic loci. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic analyses can support the discovery and characterization of both phenomena. Areas covered: We broadly divide this literature into two parts: 'modification-centric' analyses that link histone PTMs to cancer biology; and 'complex-centric' analyses that examine protein-protein interactions that occur de novo as a result of oncogenic mutations. We also discuss proteomic studies of oncohistones. We highlight relevant examples, discuss limitations, and speculate about forthcoming innovations regarding each application. Expert commentary: 'Modification-centric' analyses have been used to further understanding of cancer's histone code and to identify associated therapeutic vulnerabilities. 'Complex-centric' analyses have likewise revealed insights into mechanisms of oncogenesis and suggested potential therapeutic targets, particularly in MLL-associated leukemia. Proteomic experiments have also supported some of the pioneering studies of oncohistone-mediated tumorigenesis. Additional applications of proteomics that may benefit cancer epigenetics research include middle-down and top-down histone PTM analysis, chromatin reader profiling, and genomic locus-specific protein identification. In the coming years, proteomic approaches will remain powerful ways to interrogate the biology of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan M Marchione
- a Epigenetics Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- a Epigenetics Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - John Wojcik
- b Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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Zhou J, Ng Y, Chng WJ. ENL: structure, function, and roles in hematopoiesis and acute myeloid leukemia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:3931-3941. [PMID: 30066088 PMCID: PMC11105289 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2895-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
ENL/MLLT1 is a distinctive member of the KMT2 family based on its structural homology. ENL is a histone acetylation reader and a critical component of the super elongation complex. ENL plays pivotal roles in the regulation of chromatin remodelling and gene expression of many important proto-oncogenes, such as Myc, Hox genes, via histone acetylation. Novel insights of the key role of the YEATS domain of ENL in the transcriptional control of leukemogenic gene expression has emerged from whole genome Crisp-cas9 studies in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this review, we have summarized what is currently known about the structure and function of the ENL molecule. We described the ENL's role in normal hematopoiesis, and leukemogenesis. We have also outlined the detailed molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of target gene expression by ENL, as well as its major interacting partners and complexes involved. Finally, we discuss the emerging knowledge of different approaches for the validation of ENL as a therapeutic target and the development of small-molecule inhibitors disrupting the YEATS reader pocket of ENL protein, which holds great promise for the treatment of AML. This review will not only provide a fundamental understanding of the structure and function of ENL and update on the roles of ENL in AML, but also the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbiao Zhou
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore.
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Yvonne Ng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore
| | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117599, Republic of Singapore.
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Republic of Singapore.
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore (NCIS), The National University Health System (NUHS), 1E, Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119228, Republic of Singapore.
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Jing X, Wu H, Cheng X, Chen X, Zhang Y, Shi M, Zhang T, Wang X, Zhao R. MLLT10 promotes tumor migration, invasion, and metastasis in human colorectal cancer. Scand J Gastroenterol 2018; 53:964-971. [PMID: 30102091 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2018.1481521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the most aggressive gastrointestinal malignancies, is a frequently diagnosed life-threatening cancer worldwide. Most CRC patients have poor prognosis mainly because of frequent metastasis and recurrence. Thus, it is crucial to find out some new biomarkers and to show deeper insights into the mechanisms of CRC. MLLT10, Myeloid/lymphoid or mixed-lineage leukemia translocated to 10, also known as AF10, a recurrent MLL partner. In this study, we found that MLLT10 promotes CRC tumor invasion and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Here, the expression of MLLT10 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Then, the plasmid and lentivirus particles for MLLT10 overexpression or knockdown were designed and constructed into SW620 and HT29 cells. Finally, cell proliferation assay, cell adhesion assay, transwell migration, and invasion assay were used to detect the migration and invasion ability of MLLT10 in CRC cells. A tail vein injection assay was employed to evaluate the role of MLLT10 in tumor metastases. RESULTS MLLT10 expression was significantly higher in CRC tissues than in noncancerous tissues and was associated with some clinicopathological factors. In vitro, the overexpression of MLLT10 promoted CRC cell migration and invasion, while after MLLT10 was knocked down, the opposite results were observed. Furthermore, we used animal metastasis models to detect the function of MLLT10 in vivo, the results are same with the outcomes in vitro. In lung metastasis sites, the knockdown of MLLT10 in SW620 cells significantly inhibited Vimentin expression, whereas the E-Cadherin was increased. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that MLLT10 regulates the metastasis of CRC cells via EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Jing
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Haoxuan Wu
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Xi Cheng
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Xianze Chen
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Minmin Shi
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Tao Zhang
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiongjun Wang
- b Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences , Guangzhou University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Ren Zhao
- a Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital , Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
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Li T, Liu Q, Garza N, Kornblau S, Jin VX. Integrative analysis reveals functional and regulatory roles of H3K79me2 in mediating alternative splicing. Genome Med 2018; 10:30. [PMID: 29665865 PMCID: PMC5902843 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-018-0538-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating evidence suggests alternative splicing (AS) is a co-transcriptional splicing process not only controlled by RNA-binding splicing factors, but also mediated by epigenetic regulators, such as chromatin structure, nucleosome density, and histone modification. Aberrant AS plays an important role in regulating various diseases, including cancers. Methods In this study, we integrated AS events derived from RNA-seq with H3K79me2 ChIP-seq data across 34 different normal and cancer cell types and found the higher enrichment of H3K79me2 in two AS types, skipping exon (SE) and alternative 3′ splice site (A3SS). Results Interestingly, by applying self-organizing map (SOM) clustering, we unveiled two clusters mainly comprised of blood cancer cell types with a strong correlation between H3K79me2 and SE. Remarkably, the expression of transcripts associated with SE was not significantly different from that of those not associated with SE, indicating the involvement of H3K79me2 in splicing has little impact on full mRNA transcription. We further showed that the deletion of DOT1L1, the sole H3K79 methyltransferase, impeded leukemia cell proliferation as well as switched exon skipping to the inclusion isoform in two MLL-rearranged acute myeloid leukemia cell lines. Our data demonstrate H3K79me2 was involved in mediating SE processing, which might in turn influence transformation and disease progression in leukemias. Conclusions Collectively, our work for the first time reveals that H3K79me2 plays functional and regulatory roles through a co-transcriptional splicing mechanism. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13073-018-0538-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianbao Li
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health, 8403 Floyd Curl, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health, 8403 Floyd Curl, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Nick Garza
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health, 8403 Floyd Curl, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Steven Kornblau
- Department of Leukemia, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Victor X Jin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health, 8403 Floyd Curl, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
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Wood K, Tellier M, Murphy S. DOT1L and H3K79 Methylation in Transcription and Genomic Stability. Biomolecules 2018; 8:E11. [PMID: 29495487 PMCID: PMC5871980 DOI: 10.3390/biom8010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The organization of eukaryotic genomes into chromatin provides challenges for the cell to accomplish basic cellular functions, such as transcription, DNA replication and repair of DNA damage. Accordingly, a range of proteins modify and/or read chromatin states to regulate access to chromosomal DNA. Yeast Dot1 and the mammalian homologue DOT1L are methyltransferases that can add up to three methyl groups to histone H3 lysine 79 (H3K79). H3K79 methylation is implicated in several processes, including transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II, the DNA damage response and cell cycle checkpoint activation. DOT1L is also an important drug target for treatment of mixed lineage leukemia (MLL)-rearranged leukemia where aberrant transcriptional activation is promoted by DOT1L mislocalisation. This review summarizes what is currently known about the role of Dot1/DOT1L and H3K79 methylation in transcription and genomic stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Wood
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Michael Tellier
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
| | - Shona Murphy
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
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Safaei S, Baradaran B, Hagh MF, Alivand MR, Talebi M, Gharibi T, Solali S. Double sword role of EZH2 in leukemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:626-635. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.12.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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WDR5 high expression and its effect on tumorigenesis in leukemia. Oncotarget 2018; 7:37740-37754. [PMID: 27192115 PMCID: PMC5122345 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
WD repeat domain 5 (WDR5) plays an important role in various biological functions through the epigenetic regulation of gene transcription. However, the oncogenic effect of WDR5 in leukemia remains largely unknown. Here, we found WDR5 expression is increased in leukemia patients. High expression of WDR5 is associated with high risk leukemia; Patients with WDR5 and MLL1 high expression have poor complete remission rate. We further identified the global genomic binding of WDR5 in leukemic cells and found the genomic co-localization of WDR5 binding with H3K4me3 enrichment. Moreover, WDR5 knockdown by shRNA suppresses cell proliferation, induces apoptosis, inhibits the expression of WDR5 targets, and blocks the H3K4me3 enrichment on the promoter of its targets. We also observed the positive correlation of WDR5 expression with these targets in the cohort study of leukemia patients. Our data reveal that WDR5 may have oncogenic effect and WDR5-mediated H3K4 methylation plays an important role in leukemogenesis.
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