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de Assis LVM, Lacerda JT, Moraes MN, Domínguez-Amorocho OA, Kinker GS, Mendes D, Silva MM, Menck CFM, Câmara NOS, Castrucci AMDL. Melanopsin (Opn4) is an oncogene in cutaneous melanoma. Commun Biol 2022; 5:461. [PMID: 35562405 PMCID: PMC9106662 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03425-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The search for new therapeutical targets for cutaneous melanoma and other cancers is an ongoing task. We expanded this knowledge by evaluating whether opsins, light- and thermo-sensing proteins, could display tumor-modulatory effects on melanoma cancer. Using different experimental approaches, we show that melanoma cell proliferation is slower in the absence of Opn4, compared to Opn4WT due to an impaired cell cycle progression and reduced melanocyte inducing transcription factor (Mitf) expression. In vivo tumor progression of Opn4KO cells is remarkably reduced due to slower proliferation, and higher immune system response in Opn4KO tumors. Using pharmacological assays, we demonstrate that guanylyl cyclase activity is impaired in Opn4KO cells. Evaluation of Tumor Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database confirms our experimental data as reduced MITF and OPN4 expression in human melanoma correlates with slower cell cycle progression and presence of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Proteomic analyses of tumor bulk show that the reduced growth of Opn4KO tumors is associated with reduced Mitf signaling, higher translation of G2/M proteins, and impaired guanylyl cyclase activity. Conversely, in Opn4WT tumors increased small GTPase and an immune-suppressive TME are found. Such evidence points to OPN4 as an oncogene in melanoma, which could be pharmacologically targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Institute of Neurobiology, Center for Brain, Behavior, and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - José Thalles Lacerda
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriela Sarti Kinker
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology A. C. Camargo Cancer Center - International Research Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Davi Mendes
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Molina Silva
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Frederico Martins Menck
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Niels Olsen Saraiva Câmara
- Laboratory of Transplantation Immunobiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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Mahendra CK, Ser HL, Pusparajah P, Htar TT, Chuah LH, Yap WH, Tang YQ, Zengin G, Tang SY, Lee WL, Liew KB, Ming LC, Goh BH. Cosmeceutical Therapy: Engaging the Repercussions of UVR Photoaging on the Skin's Circadian Rhythm. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052884. [PMID: 35270025 PMCID: PMC8911461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sunlight is an important factor in regulating the central circadian rhythm, including the modulation of our sleep/wake cycles. Sunlight had also been discovered to have a prominent influence on our skin’s circadian rhythm. Overexposure or prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin photodamage, such as the formation of irregular pigmentation, collagen degradation, DNA damage, and even skin cancer. Hence, this review will be looking into the detrimental effects of sunlight on our skin, not only at the aspect of photoaging but also at its impact on the skin’s circadian rhythm. The growing market trend of natural-product-based cosmeceuticals as also caused us to question their potential to modulate the skin’s circadian rhythm. Questions about how the skin’s circadian rhythm could counteract photodamage and how best to maximize its biopotential will be discussed in this article. These discoveries regarding the skin’s circadian rhythm have opened up a completely new level of understanding of our skin’s molecular mechanism and may very well aid cosmeceutical companies, in the near future, to develop better products that not only suppress photoaging but remain effective and relevant throughout the day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Keisha Mahendra
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (C.K.M.); (T.T.H.); (L.-H.C.)
| | - Hooi-Leng Ser
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group, Microbiome and Bioresource Research Strength Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; or
| | - Priyia Pusparajah
- Medical Health and Translational Research Group, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Thet Thet Htar
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (C.K.M.); (T.T.H.); (L.-H.C.)
| | - Lay-Hong Chuah
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (C.K.M.); (T.T.H.); (L.-H.C.)
| | - Wei Hsum Yap
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (W.H.Y.); (Y.-Q.T.)
- Centre of Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Yin-Quan Tang
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (W.H.Y.); (Y.-Q.T.)
- Centre of Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Science Faculty, Selcuk University, Konya 42130, Turkey;
| | - Siah Ying Tang
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia;
- Advanced Engineering Platform, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
- Tropical Medicine and Biology Platform, School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
| | - Wai Leng Lee
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Kai Bin Liew
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya, Cyberjaya 63000, Malaysia;
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei
- Correspondence: (L.C.M.); (B.H.G.)
| | - Bey Hing Goh
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (C.K.M.); (T.T.H.); (L.-H.C.)
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Health and Well-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (L.C.M.); (B.H.G.)
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de Assis LVM, Moraes MN, Mendes D, Silva MM, Menck CFM, Castrucci AMDL. Loss of Melanopsin (OPN4) Leads to a Faster Cell Cycle Progression and Growth in Murine Melanocytes. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:1436-1450. [PMID: 34698095 PMCID: PMC8929055 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin melanocytes harbor a complex photosensitive system comprised of opsins, which were shown, in recent years, to display light- and thermo-independent functions. Based on this premise, we investigated whether melanopsin, OPN4, displays such a role in normal melanocytes. In this study, we found that murine Opn4KO melanocytes displayed a faster proliferation rate compared to Opn4WT melanocytes. Cell cycle population analysis demonstrated that OPN4KO melanocytes exhibited a faster cell cycle progression with reduced G0–G1, and highly increased S and slightly increased G2/M cell populations compared to the Opn4WT counterparts. Expression of specific cell cycle-related genes in Opn4KO melanocytes exhibited alterations that corroborate a faster cell cycle progression. We also found significant modification in gene and protein expression levels of important regulators of melanocyte physiology. PER1 protein level was higher while BMAL1 and REV-ERBα decreased in Opn4KO melanocytes compared to Opn4WT cells. Interestingly, the gene expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) was upregulated in Opn4KO melanocytes, which is in line with a higher proliferative capability. Taken altogether, we demonstrated that OPN4 regulates cell proliferation, cell cycle, and affects the expression of several important factors of the melanocyte physiology; thus, arguing for a putative tumor suppression role in melanocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil; (M.N.M.); (A.M.d.L.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil; (M.N.M.); (A.M.d.L.C.)
| | - Davi Mendes
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.M.); (M.M.S.); (C.F.M.M.)
| | - Matheus Molina Silva
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.M.); (M.M.S.); (C.F.M.M.)
| | - Carlos Frederico Martins Menck
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.M.); (M.M.S.); (C.F.M.M.)
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil; (M.N.M.); (A.M.d.L.C.)
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
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Opsins outside the eye and the skin: a more complex scenario than originally thought for a classical light sensor. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 385:519-538. [PMID: 34236517 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of melanopsin as a retinal non-visual photopigment, opsins have been described in several organs and cells. This distribution is strikingly different from the classical localization of photopigments in light-exposed tissues such as the eyes and the skin. More than 10 years ago, a new paradigm in the field was created as opsins were shown, to detect not only light, but also thermal energy in Drosophila. In agreement with these findings, thermal detection by opsins was also reported in mammalian cells. Considering the presence of opsins in tissues not reached by light, an intriguing question has emerged: What is the role of a classical light-sensor, and more recently appreciated thermo-sensor, in these tissues? To tackle this question, we address in this review the most recent studies in the field, with emphasis in mammals. We provide the present view about the role of opsins in peripheral tissues, aiming to integrate the current knowledge of the presence and function of opsins in organs that are not directly affected by light.
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How does the skin sense sun light? An integrative view of light sensing molecules. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY C-PHOTOCHEMISTRY REVIEWS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochemrev.2021.100403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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de Assis LVM, Mendes D, Silva MM, Kinker GS, Pereira-Lima I, Moraes MN, Menck CFM, Castrucci AMDL. Melanopsin mediates UVA-dependent modulation of proliferation, pigmentation, apoptosis, and molecular clock in normal and malignant melanocytes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1867:118789. [PMID: 32645331 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous melanocytes and melanoma cells express several opsins, of which melanopsin (OPN4) detects temperature and UVA radiation. To evaluate the interaction between OPN4 and UVA radiation, normal and malignant Opn4WT and Opn4KO melanocytes were exposed to three daily low doses (total 13.2 kJ/m2) of UVA radiation. UVA radiation led to a reduction of proliferation in both Opn4WT cell lines; however, only in melanoma cells this effect was associated with increased cell death by apoptosis. Daily UVA stimuli induced persistent pigment darkening (PPD) in both Opn4WT cell lines. Upon Opn4 knockout, all UVA-induced effects were lost in three independent clones of Opn4KO melanocytes and melanoma cells. Per1 bioluminescence was reduced after 1st and 2nd UVA radiations in Opn4WT cells. In Opn4KO melanocytes and melanoma cells, an acute increase of Per1 expression was seen immediately after each stimulus. We also found that OPN4 expression is downregulated in human melanoma compared to normal skin, and it decreases with disease progression. Interestingly, metastatic melanomas with low expression of OPN4 present increased expression of BMAL1 and longer overall survival. Collectively, our findings reinforce the functionality of the photosensitive system of melanocytes that may subsidize advancements in the understanding of skin related diseases, including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Davi Mendes
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Molina Silva
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Sarti Kinker
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunoendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabella Pereira-Lima
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Frederico Martins Menck
- DNA Repair Lab, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Olinski LE, Lin EM, Oancea E. Illuminating insights into opsin 3 function in the skin. Adv Biol Regul 2020; 75:100668. [PMID: 31653550 PMCID: PMC7059126 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2019.100668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Because sunlight is essential for human survival, we have developed complex mechanisms for detecting and responding to light stimuli. The eyes and skin are major organs for sensing light and express several light-sensitive opsin receptors. These opsins mediate cellular responses to spectrally-distinct wavelengths of visible and ultraviolet light. How the eyes mediate visual phototransduction is well understood, but less is known about how the skin detects light. Both human and murine skin express a wide array of opsins, with one of the most highly expressed being the functionally elusive opsin 3 (OPN3). In this review we explore light reception, opsin expression and signaling in skin cells; we compile data elucidating potential functions for human OPN3 in skin, with emphasis on recent studies investigating OPN3 regulation of melanin within epidermal melanocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Olinski
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence RI, 02912, USA.
| | - Erica M Lin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Physiology and Biotechnology, Brown University, Providence RI, 02912, USA
| | - Elena Oancea
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Physiology and Biotechnology, Brown University, Providence RI, 02912, USA.
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Lan Y, Wang Y, Lu H. Opsin 3 is a key regulator of ultraviolet A-induced photoageing in human dermal fibroblast cells. Br J Dermatol 2019; 182:1228-1244. [PMID: 31380578 PMCID: PMC7318274 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (mainly UVA) induces a sustained increase of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9 in human skin fibroblasts. MMPs can lead to the degradation of fibrous connective tissue, which is the main cause of skin photoageing. The molecular mechanisms through which fibroblasts sense UVA and trigger the cell signalling pathways involved in the upregulation of MMPs have not been well elucidated. Objectives Here, we investigated the function and potential mechanisms of photoageing of opsin (OPN)3 in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Methods Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to analyse the expression levels of OPN3 in NHDFs and photoageing models. Subsequently, NHDFs transfected with OPN3 inhibitors and indicators related to photoageing before and after UVA irradiation included expression levels of MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9, and signalling pathway protein molecules were examined. Results We provide evidence that OPN3 initiates UVA phototransduction in NHDFs. OPN3 triggers phosphorylation of activator protein 1 and ultimately upregulates MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9 in NHDFs through activating Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II, cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element‐binding protein, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, c‐JUN N‐terminal kinase and p38. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that OPN3 is the key sensor responsible for upregulating MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9 in NHDFs following UVA exposure via the calcium‐dependent G protein‐coupled signalling pathway. Conclusions Our studies provide insights into the understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which human skin cells respond to UVA radiation and may reveal molecular targets for skin photoageing prevention or clinical management. What's already known about this topic? Photoaged fibroblasts accumulate with long‐term ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an important role in the pathogenesis of photoageing. MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9 are responsible for the destruction of fibroblast collagen in severely photodamaged skin. Opsins (OPNs) are light‐sensitive members of the superfamily of heptahelical G protein‐coupled receptors, a family of cell surface receptors that are activated by a variety of stimuli and mediate signalling across membranes.
What does this study add? OPN3 is highly expressed in fibroblasts and responds to UVA irradiation. OPN3 regulates the expression of MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP9 via the calcium‐dependent G protein‐coupled signalling pathway. OPN3 is a light‐sensitive sensor that plays an important role in photoageing of the skin.
Linked Comment: Julie Thornton. Br J Dermatol 2020; 182:1086–1087. Plain language summary available online
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Lan
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
| | - Y Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
| | - H Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
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Buhr ED, Vemaraju S, Diaz N, Lang RA, Van Gelder RN. Neuropsin (OPN5) Mediates Local Light-Dependent Induction of Circadian Clock Genes and Circadian Photoentrainment in Exposed Murine Skin. Curr Biol 2019; 29:3478-3487.e4. [PMID: 31607531 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.08.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Nearly all mammalian tissues have functional, autonomous circadian clocks, which free-run with non-24 h periods and must be synchronized (entrained) to the 24 h day. This entrainment mechanism is thought to be hierarchical, with photic input to the retina entraining the master circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) and the SCN in turn synchronizing peripheral tissues via endocrine mechanisms. Here, we assess the function of a population of melanocyte precursor cells in hair and vibrissal follicles that express the photopigment neuropsin (OPN5). Organotypic cultures of murine outer ear and vibrissal skin entrain to a light-dark cycle ex vivo, requiring cis-retinal chromophore and Opn5 gene function. Short-wavelength light strongly phase shifts skin circadian rhythms ex vivo via an Opn5-dependent mechanism. In vivo, the normal amplitude of Period mRNA expression in outer ear skin is dependent on both the light-dark cycle and Opn5 function. In Opn4-/-; Pde6brd1/rd1 mice that cannot behaviorally entrain to light-dark cycles, the phase of skin-clock gene expression remains synchronized to the light-dark cycle, even as other peripheral clocks remain phase-locked to the free-running behavioral rhythm. Taken together, these results demonstrate the presence of a direct photic circadian entrainment pathway and direct light-response elements for clock genes in murine skin, similar to pathways previously described for invertebrates and certain non-mammalian vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan D Buhr
- Department of Ophthalmology, Campus Box 358058, University of Washington School of Medicine, 750 Republican St., Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
| | - Shruti Vemaraju
- Center for Chronobiology, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; The Visual Systems Group, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
| | - Nicolás Diaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Campus Box 358058, University of Washington School of Medicine, 750 Republican St., Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Richard A Lang
- Center for Chronobiology, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; The Visual Systems Group, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA.
| | - Russell N Van Gelder
- Department of Ophthalmology, Campus Box 358058, University of Washington School of Medicine, 750 Republican St., Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Biological Structure and Department of Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 750 Republican St., Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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de Assis LVM, Moraes MN, Castrucci AMDL. The molecular clock in the skin, its functionality, and how it is disrupted in cutaneous melanoma: a new pharmacological target? Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3801-3826. [PMID: 31222374 PMCID: PMC11105295 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03183-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the interface between the organism and the external environment, acting as its first barrier. Thus, this organ is constantly challenged by physical stimuli such as UV and infrared radiation, visible light, and temperature as well as chemicals and pathogens. To counteract the deleterious effects of the above-mentioned stimuli, the skin has complex defense mechanisms such as: immune and neuroendocrine systems; shedding of epidermal squamous layers and apoptosis of damaged cells; DNA repair; and pigmentary system. Here we have reviewed the current knowledge regarding which stimuli affect the molecular clock of the skin, the consequences to skin-related biological processes and, based on such knowledge, we suggest some therapeutic targets. We also explored the recent advances regarding the molecular clock disruption in melanoma, its impact on the carcinogenic process, and its therapeutic value in melanoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, R. do Matão, Trav. 14, No. 101, São Paulo, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathalia Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, R. do Matão, Trav. 14, No. 101, São Paulo, 05508-090, Brazil
- School of Health Science, University Anhembi Morumbi, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, R. do Matão, Trav. 14, No. 101, São Paulo, 05508-090, Brazil.
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de Assis LVM, Kinker GS, Moraes MN, Markus RP, Fernandes PA, Castrucci AMDL. Expression of the Circadian Clock Gene BMAL1 Positively Correlates With Antitumor Immunity and Patient Survival in Metastatic Melanoma. Front Oncol 2018; 8:185. [PMID: 29946530 PMCID: PMC6005821 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Melanoma is the most lethal type of skin cancer, with increasing incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Multiple studies have demonstrated a link between cancer development/progression and circadian disruption; however, the complex role of tumor-autonomous molecular clocks remains poorly understood. With that in mind, we investigated the pathophysiological relevance of clock genes expression in metastatic melanoma. Methods We analyzed gene expression, somatic mutation, and clinical data from 340 metastatic melanomas from The Cancer Genome Atlas, as well as gene expression data from 234 normal skin samples from genotype-tissue expression. Findings were confirmed in independent datasets. Results In melanomas, the expression of most clock genes was remarkably reduced and displayed a disrupted pattern of co-expression compared to the normal skins, indicating a dysfunctional circadian clock. Importantly, we demonstrate that the expression of the clock gene aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (BMAL1) positively correlates with patient overall survival and with the expression of T-cell activity and exhaustion markers in the tumor bulk. Accordingly, high BMAL1 expression in pretreatment samples was significantly associated with clinical benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. The robust intratumoral T-cell infiltration/activation observed in patients with high BMAL1 expression was associated with a decreased expression of key DNA-repair enzymes, and with an increased mutational/neoantigen load. Conclusion Overall, our data corroborate previous reports regarding the impact of BMAL1 expression on the cellular DNA-repair capacity and indicate that alterations in the tumor-autonomous molecular clock could influence the cellular composition of the surrounding microenvironment. Moreover, we revealed the potential of BMAL1 as a clinically relevant prognostic factor and biomarker for T-cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Sarti Kinker
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunemodulation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunemodulation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro Augusto Fernandes
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunemodulation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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de Assis LVM, Moraes MN, Magalhães-Marques KK, Kinker GS, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Castrucci AMDL. Non-Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma Induces Chronodisruption in Central and Peripheral Circadian Clocks. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1065. [PMID: 29614021 PMCID: PMC5979525 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological clock has received increasing interest due to its key role in regulating body homeostasis in a time-dependent manner. Cancer development and progression has been linked to a disrupted molecular clock; however, in melanoma, the role of the biological clock is largely unknown. We investigated the effects of the tumor on its micro- (TME) and macro-environments (TMaE) in a non-metastatic melanoma model. C57BL/6J mice were inoculated with murine B16-F10 melanoma cells and 2 weeks later the animals were euthanized every 6 h during 24 h. The presence of a localized tumor significantly impaired the biological clock of tumor-adjacent skin and affected the oscillatory expression of genes involved in light- and thermo-reception, proliferation, melanogenesis, and DNA repair. The expression of tumor molecular clock was significantly reduced compared to healthy skin but still displayed an oscillatory profile. We were able to cluster the affected genes using a human database and distinguish between primary melanoma and healthy skin. The molecular clocks of lungs and liver (common sites of metastasis), and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) were significantly affected by tumor presence, leading to chronodisruption in each organ. Taken altogether, the presence of non-metastatic melanoma significantly impairs the organism's biological clocks. We suggest that the clock alterations found in TME and TMaE could impact development, progression, and metastasis of melanoma; thus, making the molecular clock an interesting pharmacological target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Keila Karoline Magalhães-Marques
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Gabriela Sarti Kinker
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Sanseray da Silveira Cruz-Machado
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil.
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA.
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de Assis LVM, Moraes MN, Magalhães-Marques KK, Castrucci AMDL. Melanopsin and rhodopsin mediate UVA-induced immediate pigment darkening: Unravelling the photosensitive system of the skin. Eur J Cell Biol 2018; 97:150-162. [PMID: 29395480 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2018.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian skin has a photosensitive system comprised by several opsins, including rhodopsin (OPN2) and melanopsin (OPN4). Recently, our group showed that UVA (4.4 kJ/m2) leads to immediate pigment darkening (IPD) in murine normal and malignant melanocytes. We show the role of OPN2 and OPN4 as UVA sensors: UVA-induced IPD was fully abolished when OPN4 was pharmacologically inhibited by AA9253 or when OPN2 and OPN4 were knocked down by siRNA in both cell lines. Our data, however, demonstrate that phospholipase C/protein kinase C pathway, a classical OPN4 pathway, is not involved in UVA-induced IPD in either cell line. Nonetheless, in both cell types we have shown that: a) intracellular calcium signal is necessary for UVA-induced IPD; b) the involvement of CaMK II, whose inhibition, abolished the UVA-induced IPD; c) the role of CAMK II/NOS/sGC/cGMP pathway in the process since inhibition of either NOS or sGC abolished the UVA-induced IPD. Taken altogether, we show that OPN2 and OPN4 participate in IPD induced by UVA in murine normal and malignant melanocytes through a conserved common pathway. Interestingly, upon knockdown of OPN2 or OPN4, the UVA-driven IPD is completely lost, which suggests that both opsins are required and cooperatively signal in murine both cell lines. The participation of OPN2 and OPN4 system in UVA radiation-induced response, if proven to take place in human skin, may represent an interesting pharmacological target for the treatment of depigmentary disorders and skin-related cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathalia Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Keila Karoline Magalhães-Marques
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Moraes MN, de Assis LVM, Magalhães-Marques KK, Poletini MO, de Lima LHRG, Castrucci AMDL. Melanopsin, a Canonical Light Receptor, Mediates Thermal Activation of Clock Genes. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13977. [PMID: 29070825 PMCID: PMC5656685 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13939-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin (OPN4) is a photo-pigment found in a small subset of intrinsically photosensitive ganglion cells (ipRGCs) of the mammalian retina. These cells play a role in synchronizing the central circadian pacemaker to the astronomical day by conveying information about ambient light to the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus, the site of the master clock. We evaluated the effect of a heat stimulus (39.5 °C) on clock gene (Per1 and Bmal1) expression in cultured murine Melan-a melanocytes synchronized by medium changes, and in B16-F10 melanoma cells, in the presence of the selective OPN4 antagonist AA92593, or after OPN4 knockdown by small interfering RNA (siRNA). In addition, we evaluated the effects of heat shock on the localization of melanopsin by immunocytochemistry. In both cell lines melanopsin was found in a region capping the nucleus and heat shock did not affect its location. The heat-induced increase of Per1 expression was inhibited when melanopsin was pharmacologically blocked by AA92593 as well as when its protein expression was suppressed by siRNA in both Melan-a and B16-F10 cells. These data strongly suggest that melanopsin is required for thermo-reception, acting as a thermo-opsin that ultimately feeds the local circadian clock in mouse melanocytes and melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Nathália Moraes
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maristela Oliveira Poletini
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Cold-sensing TRPM8 channel participates in circadian control of the brown adipose tissue. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017; 1864:2415-2427. [PMID: 28943398 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are known to regulate energy metabolism, and TRPM8 has become an interesting player in this context. Here we demonstrate the role of the cold sensor TRPM8 in the regulation of clock gene and clock controlled genes in brown adipose tissue (BAT). We investigated TrpM8 temporal profile in the eyes, suprachiasmatic nucleus and BAT; only BAT showed temporal variation of TrpM8 transcripts. Eyes from mice lacking TRPM8 lost the temporal profile of Per1 in LD cycle. This alteration in the ocular circadian physiology may explain the delay in the onset of locomotor activity in response to light pulse, as compared to wild type animals (WT). Brown adipocytes from TrpM8 KO mice exhibited a larger multilocularity in comparison to WT or TrpV1 KO mice. In addition, Ucp1 and UCP1 expression was significantly reduced in TrpM8 KO mice in comparison to WT mice. Regarding circadian components, the expression of Per1, Per2, Bmal1, Pparα, and Pparβ oscillated in WT mice kept in LD, whereas in the absence of TRPM8 the expression of clock genes was reduced in amplitude and lack temporal oscillation. Thus, our results reveal new roles for TRPM8 channel: it participates in the regulation of clock and clock-controlled genes in the eyes and BAT, and in BAT thermogenesis. Since disruption of the clock machinery has been associated with many metabolic disorders, the pharmacological modulation of TRPM8 channel may become a promising therapeutic target to counterbalance weight gain, through increased thermogenesis, energy expenditure, and clock gene activation.
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Jerônimo R, Moraes MN, de Assis LVM, Ramos BC, Rocha T, Castrucci AMDL. Thermal stress in Danio rerio: a link between temperature, light, thermo-TRP channels, and clock genes. J Therm Biol 2017; 68:128-138. [PMID: 28689714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
It is believed that the biological systems perceiving temperature and light daily cycles were subjected to the simultaneous selective pressures, which resulted in their co-evolutionary association. We investigated the influence of 1h 33°C heat shock on the expression of clock and heat shock protein genes, as well as the role of the thermo-TRP channel, TRPV1, in ZEM-2S cells of the teleost Danio rerio, in constant dark (DD) or light-dark cycles (LD). After heat shock, we observed an acute increase of hsp90 aa1 levels in both DD and LD conditions. Interestingly, the expression of hsp90 aa1 was two-fold lower in LD than in DD, what suggests an antagonistic effect of white light on heat shock action. Regarding clock genes, no effect was found in cells subjected to the heat shock in DD. When cells were kept in LD, the expression of per1, per2, cry1a, and cry1b increased in response to heat shock, indicating that heat shock only affects clock core of LD-synchronized ZEM-2S cells. We then evaluated whether TRPV1 played a role in heat-mediated hsp90 aa1 and per2 responses: hsp90 aa1 increase was unaffected whereas per2 increase was partially blocked by TRPV1 inhibitor, demonstrating the channel participation in clock gene regulation by heat shock. Taken together, our results open a novel investigative perspective regarding the relationship between temperature and clock genes, placing a new player in the regulation of this phenomenon: the TRPV1 channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Jerônimo
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Nathália Moraes
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro de Assis
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno César Ramos
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thainá Rocha
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci
- Laboratory of Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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