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Zhang Y, Fong KW, Mao F, Wang R, Allison DB, Napier D, He D, Liu J, Zhang Y, Chen J, Kong Y, Li C, Li G, Liu J, Li Z, Zhu H, Wang C, Liu X. Elevating PLK1 overcomes BETi resistance in prostate cancer via triggering BRD4 phosphorylation-dependent degradation in mitosis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114431. [PMID: 38968071 PMCID: PMC11334074 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in prostate cancer (PCa). Understanding the mechanisms of BRD4 stability could enhance the clinical response to BRD4-targeted therapy. In this study, we report that BRD4 protein levels are significantly decreased during mitosis in a PLK1-dependent manner. Mechanistically, we show that BRD4 is primarily phosphorylated at T1186 by the CDK1/cyclin B complex, recruiting PLK1 to phosphorylate BRD4 at S24/S1100, which are recognized by the APC/CCdh1 complex for proteasome pathway degradation. We find that PLK1 overexpression lowers SPOP mutation-stabilized BRD4, consequently rendering PCa cells re-sensitized to BRD4 inhibitors. Intriguingly, we report that sequential treatment of docetaxel and JQ1 resulted in significant inhibition of PCa. Collectively, the results support that PLK1-phosphorylated BRD4 triggers its degradation at M phase. Sequential treatment of docetaxel and JQ1 overcomes BRD4 accumulation-associated bromodomain and extra-terminal inhibitor (BETi) resistance, which may shed light on the development of strategies to treat PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanquan Zhang
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Ka-Wing Fong
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Fengyi Mao
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Ruixin Wang
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Derek B Allison
- Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Dana Napier
- Biospecimen Procurement & Translational Pathology Shared Resource Facility, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Daheng He
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Yeqing Zhang
- Department of Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Yifan Kong
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Chaohao Li
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Guangbing Li
- Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Jinghui Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Zhiguo Li
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Haining Zhu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Chi Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Xiaoqi Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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2
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Bogale DE. The roles of FGFR3 and c-MYC in urothelial bladder cancer. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:295. [PMID: 39031286 PMCID: PMC11264706 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01173-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is one of the most frequently occurring cancers worldwide. At diagnosis, 75% of urothelial bladder cancer cases have non-muscle invasive bladder cancer while 25% have muscle invasive or metastatic disease. Aberrantly activated fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)-3 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer. Activating mutations of FGFR3 are observed in around 70% of NMIBC cases and ~ 15% of MIBCs. Activated FGFR3 leads to ligand-independent receptor dimerization and activation of downstream signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation and survival. FGFR3 is an important therapeutic target in bladder cancer, and clinical studies have shown the benefit of FGFR inhibitors in a subset of bladder cancer patients. c-MYC is a well-known major driver of carcinogenesis and is one of the most commonly deregulated oncogenes identified in human cancers. Studies have shown that the antitumor effects of FGFR inhibition in FGFR3 dependent bladder cancer cells and other FGFR dependent cancers may be mediated through c-MYC, a key downstream effector of activated FGFR that is involved tumorigenesis. This review will summarize the current general understanding of FGFR signaling and MYC alterations in cancer, and the role of FGFR3 and MYC dysregulation in the pathogenesis of urothelial bladder cancer with the possible therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje E Bogale
- School of Medicine, Department of Oncology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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3
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Wu M, Guan G, Yin H, Niu Q. A Review of the Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain Epigenetic Reader Proteins: Function on Virus Infection and Cancer. Viruses 2024; 16:1096. [PMID: 39066258 PMCID: PMC11281655 DOI: 10.3390/v16071096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The BET (bromodomain and extraterminal domain) family of proteins, particularly BRD4 (bromodomain-containing protein 4), plays a crucial role in transcription regulation and epigenetic mechanisms, impacting key cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and the DNA damage response. BRD4, the most studied member of this family, binds to acetylated lysines on both histones and non-histone proteins, thereby regulating gene expression and influencing diverse cellular functions such as the cell cycle, tumorigenesis, and immune responses to viral infections. Given BRD4's involvement in these fundamental processes, it is implicated in various diseases, including cancer and inflammation, making it a promising target for therapeutic development. This review comprehensively explores the roles of the BET family in gene transcription, DNA damage response, and viral infection, discussing the potential of targeted small-molecule compounds and highlighting BET proteins as promising candidates for anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengli Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; (M.W.); (G.G.); (H.Y.)
- African Swine Fever Regional Laboratory of China (Lanzhou), Gansu Province Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Pathogen Biology, Lanzhou 730046, China
| | - Guiquan Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; (M.W.); (G.G.); (H.Y.)
- African Swine Fever Regional Laboratory of China (Lanzhou), Gansu Province Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Pathogen Biology, Lanzhou 730046, China
| | - Hong Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; (M.W.); (G.G.); (H.Y.)
- African Swine Fever Regional Laboratory of China (Lanzhou), Gansu Province Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Pathogen Biology, Lanzhou 730046, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonosis, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Qingli Niu
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; (M.W.); (G.G.); (H.Y.)
- African Swine Fever Regional Laboratory of China (Lanzhou), Gansu Province Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Pathogen Biology, Lanzhou 730046, China
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4
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Teufelsbauer M, Stickler S, Eggerstorfer MT, Hammond DC, Hamilton G. BET-directed PROTACs in triple negative breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2024:10.1007/s10549-024-07403-w. [PMID: 38896334 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-024-07403-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to find whether the proliferation and migration of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines can be reduced by treatment with bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitor JQ1 and BET protein targeting chimeras (PROTACs) ARV-771 and MZ1. METHODS Cytotoxicity tests, scratch migration assays and western blot proteome profiler arrays for protein expression of cancer-related proteins were used to evaluate the impact of a BET-inhibitor and two BET-directed PROTACs on cell viability, migration and on protein expression. RESULTS JQ1 and the PROTACs MZ1 and ARV-771 significantly inhibited the growth and migration of the KRAS G13D-mutated MDA-MB-231 cells. In this cell line, the PROTACs suppressed the residual expression of ERBB2/HER2, 3 and 4 that are essential for the proliferation of breast cancer cells and this cell line proved sensitive to HER2 inhibitors. In contrast, the effects of the PROTACs on the protein expression of MDA-MB-436 cells mostly affected cytokines and their cognate receptors. CONCLUSION The degradation of BET-protein by PROTACs demonstrated significant anti-proliferative effects. The KRAS-mutated MDA-MB-231 cells belong to the low-HER2 expressing tumors that have a poorer prognosis compared to HER2-null patients. Since first oral PROTACs against tumor hormone receptors are in clinical trials, this mode of tumor therapy is expected to become an important therapeutic strategy in the future treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryana Teufelsbauer
- Clinics of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Stickler
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Gerhard Hamilton
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Mi X, Shan H, Kang C, Zhang J, Hou S, Gao Y, Hao L, Gao X, Gao Q, Chi X, Zhang Q. MYC and NCAPG2 as molecular targets of colorectal cancer and gastric cancer in nursing. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38029. [PMID: 38701261 PMCID: PMC11062703 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is a common malignant tumor in intestinal tract, the early symptoms are not obvious. Gastric cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the gastric mucosal epithelium. However, the role of MYC and non-SMC condensin II complex subunit G2 (NCAPG2) in colorectal cancer and gastric cancer remains unclear. The colorectal cancer datasets GSE49355 and gastric cancer datasets GSE19826 were downloaded from gene expression omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed. Functional enrichment analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and immune infiltration analysis was performed. Construction and analysis of protein-protein interactions (PPI) network. Survival analysis and comparative toxicogenomics database (CTD) were performed. A heat map of gene expression was drawn. A total of 751 DEGs were obtained. According to the gene ontology (GO) analysis, in Biological process (BP) analysis, they are mainly enriched in cell differentiation, cartilage development, and skeletal development. In cellular component (CC) analysis, they are mainly enriched in the cytoskeleton of muscle cells and actin filaments. In molecular function (MF) analysis, they are mainly concentrated in Rho GTPase binding, DNA binding, and fibronectin binding. In Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, they are mainly enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway, apoptosis, and cancer pathways. The soft threshold power for WGCNA analysis was set to 9, resulting in the generation of 40 modules. Ultimately, 2 core genes (MYC and NCAPG2) were identified. The heatmap of core gene expression showed high expression of MYC and NCAPG2 in colorectal cancer tissue samples and low expression in normal tissue samples, while they were core molecules in gastric cancer. Survival analysis indicated that MYC and NCAPG2 were risk factors, showing an upregulation trend with increasing risk scores. CTD analysis revealed associations of MYC and NCAPG2 with colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, inflammation, and immune system diseases. MYC and NCAPG2 are highly expressed in colorectal cancer. The higher the expression of MYC and NCAPG2, the worse the prognosis. MYC and NCAPG2 are core molecules in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xihua Mi
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haifeng Shan
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunbo Kang
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyang Hou
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanfang Gao
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingli Hao
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoli Gao
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqian Chi
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qijun Zhang
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Li R, He J, Ni Z, Zhang J, Chi X, Kang C, Li Z, Li X. Mining and exploration of rehabilitation nursing targets for colorectal cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7022-7042. [PMID: 38637125 PMCID: PMC11087124 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are often subtle early symptoms of colorectal cancer, a common malignancy of the intestinal tract. However, it is not yet clear how MYC and NCAPG2 are involved in colorectal cancer. METHOD We obtained colorectal cancer datasets GSE32323 and GSE113513 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). After downloading, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). We then undertook functional enrichment assay, gene set enrichment assay (GSEA) and immune infiltration assay. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction and analysis were undertaken. Survival analysis and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) analysis were conducted. A gene expression heat map was generated. We used TargetScan to identify miRNAs that are regulators of DEGs. RESULTS 1117 DEGs were identified. Their predominant enrichment in activities like the cellular phase of the cell cycle, in cell proliferation, in nuclear and cytoplasmic localisation and in binding to protein-containing complexes was revealed by Gene Ontology (GO). When the enrichment data from GSE32323 and GSE113513 colon cancer datasets were merged, the primary enriched DEGs were linked to the cell cycle, protein complex, cell cycle control, calcium signalling and P53 signalling pathways. In particular, MYC, MAD2L1, CENPF, UBE2C, NUF2 and NCAPG2 were identified as highly expressed in colorectal cancer samples. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) demonstrated that the core genes were implicated in the following processes: colorectal neoplasia, tumour cell transformation, inflammation and necrosis. CONCLUSIONS High MYC and NCAPG2 expression has been observed in colorectal cancer, and increased MYC and NCAPG2 expression correlates with worse prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruipu Li
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Shijingshan 100144, Beijing, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation 731 Hospital, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijie Ni
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation 731 Hospital, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Shijingshan 100144, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqian Chi
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Shijingshan 100144, Beijing, China
| | - Chunbo Kang
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Shijingshan 100144, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongbo Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation 731 Hospital, Fengtai, Beijing, China
| | - Xubin Li
- Gastrointestinal Rehabilitation Center, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Shijingshan 100144, Beijing, China
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Chan KI, Zhang S, Li G, Xu Y, Cui L, Wang Y, Su H, Tan W, Zhong Z. MYC Oncogene: A Druggable Target for Treating Cancers with Natural Products. Aging Dis 2024; 15:640-697. [PMID: 37450923 PMCID: PMC10917530 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Various diseases, including cancers, age-associated disorders, and acute liver failure, have been linked to the oncogene, MYC. Animal testing and clinical trials have shown that sustained tumor volume reduction can be achieved when MYC is inactivated, and different combinations of therapeutic agents including MYC inhibitors are currently being developed. In this review, we first provide a summary of the multiple biological functions of the MYC oncoprotein in cancer treatment, highlighting that the equilibrium points of the MYC/MAX, MIZ1/MYC/MAX, and MAD (MNT)/MAX complexes have further potential in cancer treatment that could be used to restrain MYC oncogene expression and its functions in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the multifunctional capacity of MYC in various cellular cancer processes, including its influences on immune response, metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, multidrug resistance, and intestinal flora. Moreover, we summarize the MYC therapy patent landscape and emphasize the potential of MYC as a druggable target, using herbal medicine modulators. Finally, we describe pending challenges and future perspectives in biomedical research, involving the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate MYC or its targeted genes. Patients with cancers driven by MYC signaling may benefit from therapies targeting these pathways, which could delay cancerous growth and recover antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Iong Chan
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Siyuan Zhang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Guodong Li
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Yida Xu
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Liao Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Natural Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524000, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China
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8
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Bigger-Allen A, Gheinani AH, Adam RM. Investigation of the impact of bromodomain inhibition on cytoskeleton stability and contraction. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:184. [PMID: 38493137 PMCID: PMC10944605 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01553-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injury to contractile organs such as the heart, vasculature, urinary bladder and gut can stimulate a pathological response that results in loss of normal contractility. PDGF and TGFβ are among the most well studied initiators of the injury response and have been shown to induce aberrant contraction in mechanically active cells of hollow organs including smooth muscle cells (SMC) and fibroblasts. However, the mechanisms driving contractile alterations downstream of PDGF and TGFβ in SMC and fibroblasts are incompletely understood, limiting therapeutic interventions. METHODS To identify potential molecular targets, we have leveraged the analysis of publicly available data, comparing transcriptomic changes in mechanically active cells stimulated with PDGF and TGFβ. Additional Analysis of publicly available data sets were performed on SMC and fibroblasts treated in the presence or absence of the MYC inhibitor JQ1. Validation of in silico findings were performed with qPCR, immunoblots, and collagen gel contraction assays measure the effect of JQ1 on cytoskeleton associated genes, proteins and contractility in mechanically active cells. Likelihood ratio test and FDR adjusted p-values were used to determine significant differentially expressed genes. Student ttest were used to calculate statistical significance of qPCR and contractility analyses. RESULTS Comparing PDGF and TGFβ stimulated SMC and fibroblasts identified a shared molecular profile regulated by MYC and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. Additional in silico analysis revealed a unique set of cytoskeleton-associated genes that were sensitive to MYC inhibition with JQ1. In vitro validation demonstrated JQ1 was also able to attenuate TGFβ and PDGF induced changes to the cytoskeleton and contraction of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts in vitro. CONCLUSIONS These findings identify MYC as a key driver of aberrant cytoskeletal and contractile changes in fibroblasts and SMC, and suggest that JQ1 could be used to restore normal contractile function in hollow organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bigger-Allen
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Biological & Biomedical Sciences Program, Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ali Hashemi Gheinani
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Functional Urology Research Group, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Urology, Inselspital University Hospital, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rosalyn M Adam
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Xu X, Yu Y, Zhang W, Ma W, He C, Qiu G, Wang X, Liu Q, Zhao M, Xie J, Tao F, Perry JM, Liu Q, Rao S, Kang X, Zhao M, Jiang L. SHP-1 inhibition targets leukaemia stem cells to restore immunosurveillance and enhance chemosensitivity by metabolic reprogramming. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:464-477. [PMID: 38321204 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01349-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Leukaemia stem cells (LSCs) in acute myeloid leukaemia present a considerable treatment challenge due to their resistance to chemotherapy and immunosurveillance. The connection between these properties in LSCs remains poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that inhibition of tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 in LSCs increases their glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, enhancing their sensitivity to chemotherapy and vulnerability to immunosurveillance. Mechanistically, SHP-1 inhibition leads to the upregulation of phosphofructokinase platelet (PFKP) through the AKT-β-catenin pathway. The increase in PFKP elevates energy metabolic activities and, as a consequence, enhances the sensitivity of LSCs to chemotherapeutic agents. Moreover, the upregulation of PFKP promotes MYC degradation and, consequently, reduces the immune evasion abilities of LSCs. Overall, our study demonstrates that targeting SHP-1 disrupts the metabolic balance in LSCs, thereby increasing their vulnerability to chemotherapy and immunosurveillance. This approach offers a promising strategy to overcome LSC resistance in acute myeloid leukaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Xu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanhui Yu
- Department of Hematology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Ma
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chong He
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guo Qiu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minyi Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiayi Xie
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Tao
- Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Kansas Medical Center, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - John M Perry
- Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Kansas Medical Center, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Qifa Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuan Rao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xunlei Kang
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
| | - Meng Zhao
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Ministry of Education), Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Linjia Jiang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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10
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Venkatraman S, Balasubramanian B, Thuwajit C, Meller J, Tohtong R, Chutipongtanate S. Targeting MYC at the intersection between cancer metabolism and oncoimmunology. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1324045. [PMID: 38390324 PMCID: PMC10881682 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1324045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MYC activation is a known hallmark of cancer as it governs the gene targets involved in various facets of cancer progression. Of interest, MYC governs oncometabolism through the interactions with its partners and cofactors, as well as cancer immunity via its gene targets. Recent investigations have taken interest in characterizing these interactions through multi-Omic approaches, to better understand the vastness of the MYC network. Of the several gene targets of MYC involved in either oncometabolism or oncoimmunology, few of them overlap in function. Prominent interactions have been observed with MYC and HIF-1α, in promoting glucose and glutamine metabolism and activation of antigen presentation on regulatory T cells, and its subsequent metabolic reprogramming. This review explores existing knowledge of the role of MYC in oncometabolism and oncoimmunology. It also unravels how MYC governs transcription and influences cellular metabolism to facilitate the induction of pro- or anti-tumoral immunity. Moreover, considering the significant roles MYC holds in cancer development, the present study discusses effective direct or indirect therapeutic strategies to combat MYC-driven cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Venkatraman
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Brinda Balasubramanian
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Chanitra Thuwajit
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jaroslaw Meller
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Rutaiwan Tohtong
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somchai Chutipongtanate
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Milk, microbiome, Immunity and Lactation research for Child Health (MILCH) and Novel Therapeutics Lab, Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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11
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Li S, Guo Q, Guo R, Xu H. Transcriptional factor BRD4 promotes the stemness of esophageal cancer by activating the nuclear PD-L1/RelB axis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:669-679. [PMID: 37615218 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is a prevalent malignancy associated with therapeutic resistance and poor prognosis. This study investigates the role of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in esophageal cancer stem cell (ECSC) formation. ECSCs were enriched and characterized using various assays. We found that both PD-L1 and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) were upregulated in ECSCs, promoting their stemness. Inhibiting BRD4 suppressed ECSC markers expression and sphere formation. Furthermore, BRD4 inhibitors downregulated membrane and nuclear PD-L1 levels, with knockdown of PD-L1 inhibiting ECSC formation. PD-L1 degraders also affected PD-L1 and its downstream effector RelB expression. Moreover, inhibiting RelB influenced sphere formation through interleukin-6 expression. This study reveals the critical role of the BRD4/nuclear PD-L1/RelB axis in ECSC formation, highlighting nuclear PD-L1 as a potential immunotherapeutic target for refractory EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouguo Li
- Department of Tumor Radiotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qunhuang Guo
- Department of Tumor Radiotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ruixiang Guo
- Department of Tumor Radiotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Tumor Radiotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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12
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Wang J, Yang C, Xu H, Fan X, Jia L, Du Y, Liu S, Wang W, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Wang X, Liu Z, Bao J, Li S, Yang J, Wu C, Tang J, Chen G, Wang L. The Interplay Between HIF-1α and EZH2 in Lung Cancer and Dual-Targeted Drug Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2303904. [PMID: 38072662 PMCID: PMC10870044 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Interactions between oncogenic proteins contribute to the phenotype and drug resistance. Here, EZH2 (enhancer of zest homolog 2) is identified as a crucial factor that mediates HIF-1 (hypoxia-inducible factor) inhibitor resistance. Mechanistically, targeting HIF-1 enhanced the activity of EZH2 through transcription activation of SUZ12 (suppressor of zest 12 protein homolog). Conversely, inhibiting EZH2 increased HIF-1α transcription, but not the transcription of other HIF family members. Additionally, the negative feedback regulation between EZH2 and HIF-1α is confirmed in lung cancer patient tissues and a database of cell lines. Moreover, molecular prediction showed that a newly screened dual-target compound, DYB-03, forms multiple hydrogen bonds with HIF-1α and EZH2 to effectively inhibit the activity of both targets. Subsequent studies revealed that DYB-03 could better inhibit migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of lung cancer cells and HUVECs in vitro and in vivo compared to single agent. DYB-03 showed promising antitumor activity in a xenograft tumor model by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting angiogenesis, which could be almost abolished by the deletion of HIF-1α and EZH2. Notably, DYB-03 could reverse 2-ME2 and GSK126-resistance in lung cancer. These findings clarified the molecular mechanism of cross-regulation of HIF-1α and EZH2, and the potential of DYB-03 for clinical combination target therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Wang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Cheng Yang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Huashen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of EducationSchool of Pharmaceutical EngineeringShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Fan
- Department of PharmacyShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang110004P. R. China
| | - Lina Jia
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Yang Du
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of EducationSchool of Pharmaceutical EngineeringShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
| | - Shougeng Liu
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxue Wang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Zhongbo Liu
- School of PharmacyShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
| | - Jie Bao
- Research Program in Systems OncologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinki00290Finland
| | - Songping Li
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
| | - Jingyu Yang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Chunfu Wu
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
| | - Jing Tang
- Research Program in Systems OncologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinki00290Finland
| | - Guoliang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structure‐Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of EducationSchool of Pharmaceutical EngineeringShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
| | - Lihui Wang
- School of Life Science and BiopharmaceuticsShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityShenyang110016P. R. China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical ResearchShenyang Pharmaceutical UniversityBenxi117004P. R. China
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13
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Li D, Peng X, Hu Z, Li S, Chen J, Pan W. Small molecules targeting selected histone methyltransferases (HMTs) for cancer treatment: Current progress and novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115982. [PMID: 38056296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) play a critical role in gene post-translational regulation and diverse physiological processes, and are implicated in a plethora of human diseases, especially cancer. Increasing evidences demonstrate that HMTs may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Thus, the development of HMTs inhibitor have been pursued with steadily increasing interest over the past decade. However, the disadvantages such as insufficient clinical efficacy, moderate selectivity, and propensity for acquired resistance have hindered the development of conventional HMT inhibitors. New technologies and methods are imperative to enhance the anticancer activity of HMT inhibitors. In this review, we first review the structure and biological functions of the several essential HMTs, such as EZH2, G9a, PRMT5, and DOT1L. The internal relationship between these HMTs and cancer is also expounded. Next, we mainly focus on the latest progress in the development of HMT modulators encompassing dual-target inhibitors, targeted protein degraders and covalent inhibitors from perspectives such as rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical status. Lastly, we also discuss the challenges and future directions for HMT-based drug discovery for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Li
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Shuqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 516000, PR China.
| | - Wanyi Pan
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, PR China.
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14
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Nuñez Y, Vera S, Baeza V, Gonzalez-Pecchi V. NSD3 in Cancer: Unraveling Methyltransferase-Dependent and Isoform-Specific Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:944. [PMID: 38256018 PMCID: PMC10815784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
NSD3 (nuclear receptor-binding SET domain protein 3) is a member of the NSD histone methyltransferase family of proteins. In recent years, it has been identified as a potential oncogene in certain types of cancer. The NSD3 gene encodes three isoforms, the long version (NSD3L), a short version (NSD3S) and the WHISTLE isoforms. Importantly, the NSD3S isoform corresponds to the N-terminal region of the full-length protein, lacking the methyltransferase domain. The chromosomal location of NSD3 is frequently amplified across cancer types, such as breast, lung, and colon, among others. Recently, this amplification has been correlated to a chromothripsis event, that could explain the different NSD3 alterations found in cancer. The fusion proteins containing NSD3 have also been reported in leukemia (NSD3-NUP98), and in NUT (nuclear protein of the testis) midline carcinoma (NSD3-NUT). Its role as an oncogene has been described by modulating different cancer pathways through its methyltransferase activity, or the short isoform of the protein, through protein interactions. Specifically, in this review we will focus on the functions that have been characterized as methyltransferase dependent, and those that have been correlated with the expression of the NSD3S isoform. There is evidence that both the NSD3L and NSD3S isoforms are relevant for cancer progression, establishing NSD3 as a therapeutic target. However, further functional studies are needed to differentiate NSD3 oncogenic activity as dependent or independent of the catalytic domain of the protein, as well as the contribution of each isoform and its clinical significance in cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanara Nuñez
- Biomedical Science Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción 4090541, Chile; (Y.N.); (S.V.); (V.B.)
- Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070383, Chile
| | - Sebastian Vera
- Biomedical Science Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción 4090541, Chile; (Y.N.); (S.V.); (V.B.)
| | - Victor Baeza
- Biomedical Science Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción 4090541, Chile; (Y.N.); (S.V.); (V.B.)
| | - Valentina Gonzalez-Pecchi
- Biomedical Science Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción 4090541, Chile; (Y.N.); (S.V.); (V.B.)
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15
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Kazmi I, Altamimi ASA, Afzal M, Majami AA, Abbasi FA, Almalki WH, Alzera SI, Kukreti N, Fuloria NK, Fuloria S, Sekar M, Abida. Non-coding RNAs: Emerging biomarkers and therapeutic targets in ulcerative colitis. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:155037. [PMID: 38160482 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a persistent inflammatory condition affecting the colon's mucosal lining, leading to chronic bowel inflammation. Despite extensive research, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying UC pathogenesis remain elusive. NcRNAs form a category of functional RNA molecules devoid of protein-coding capacity. They have recently surfaced as pivotal modulators of gene expression and integral participants in various pathological processes, particularly those related to inflammatory disorders. The diverse classes of ncRNAs, encompassing miRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs, have been implicated in UC. It highlights their involvement in key UC-related processes, such as immune cell activation, epithelial barrier integrity, and the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. ncRNAs have been identified as potential biomarkers for UC diagnosis and monitoring disease progression, offering promising avenues for personalized medicine. This approach may pave the way for novel, more specific treatments with reduced side effects, addressing the current limitations of conventional therapies. A comprehensive understanding of the interplay between ncRNAs and UC will advance our knowledge of the disease, potentially leading to more effective and personalized treatments for patients suffering from this debilitating condition. This review explores the pivotal role of ncRNAs in the context of UC, shedding light on their possible targets for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Majami
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Al Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzera
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | | | - Shivkanya Fuloria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Bedong 08100, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Hamilton G, Stickler S, Rath B. Bromodomain Protein-directed Agents and MYC in Small Cell Lung Cancer. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2024; 24:930-940. [PMID: 38275056 DOI: 10.2174/0115680096272757231211113206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has a dismal prognosis. In addition to the inactivation of the tumor suppressors TP53 and RB1, tumor-promoting MYC and paralogs are frequently overexpressed in this neuroendocrine carcinoma. SCLC exhibits high resistance to second-line chemotherapy and all attempts of novel drugs and targeted therapy have failed so far to achieve superior survival. MYC and paralogs have key roles in the oncogenic process, orchestrating proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and metabolism. In SCLC, MYC-L and MYC regulate the neuroendocrine dedifferentiation of SCLC cells from Type A (ASCL1 expression) to the other SCLC subtypes. Targeting MYC to suppress tumor growth is difficult due to the lack of suitable binding pockets and the most advanced miniprotein inhibitor Omomyc exhibits limited efficacy. MYC may be targeted indirectly via the bromodomain (BET) protein BRD4, which activates MYC transcription, by specific BET inhibitors that reduce the expression of this oncogenic driver. Here, novel BET-directed Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are discussed that show high antiproliferative activity in SCLC. Particularly, ARV-825, targeting specifically BRD4, exhibits superior cytotoxic effects on SCLC cell lines and may become a valuable adjunct to SCLC combination chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Hamilton
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Stickler
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Rath
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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17
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Efe G, Dunbar KJ, Sugiura K, Cunningham K, Carcamo S, Karaiskos S, Tang Q, Cruz-Acuña R, Resnick-Silverman L, Peura J, Lu C, Hasson D, Klein-Szanto AJ, Taylor AM, Manfredi JJ, Prives C, Rustgi AK. p53 Gain-of-Function Mutation Induces Metastasis via BRD4-Dependent CSF-1 Expression. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:2632-2651. [PMID: 37676642 PMCID: PMC10841313 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
TP53 mutations are frequent in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and other SCCs and are associated with a proclivity for metastasis. Here, we report that colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) expression is upregulated significantly in a p53-R172H-dependent manner in metastatic lung lesions of ESCC. The p53-R172H-dependent CSF-1 signaling, through its cognate receptor CSF-1R, increases tumor cell invasion and lung metastasis, which in turn is mediated in part through Stat3 phosphorylation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In Trp53R172H tumor cells, p53 occupies the Csf-1 promoter. The Csf-1 locus is enriched with histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac), which is likely permissive for fostering an interaction between bromodomain-containing domain 4 (BRD4) and p53-R172H to regulate Csf-1 transcription. Inhibition of BRD4 not only reduces tumor invasion and lung metastasis but also reduces circulating CSF-1 levels. Overall, our results establish a novel p53-R172H-dependent BRD4-CSF-1 axis that promotes ESCC lung metastasis and suggest avenues for therapeutic strategies for this difficult-to-treat disease. SIGNIFICANCE The invasion-metastasis cascade is a recalcitrant barrier to effective cancer therapy. We establish that the p53-R172H-dependent BRD4-CSF-1 axis is a mediator of prometastatic properties, correlates with patient survival and tumor stages, and its inhibition significantly reduces tumor cell invasion and lung metastasis. This axis can be exploited for therapeutic advantage. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 2489.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Efe
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Karen J. Dunbar
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Kensuke Sugiura
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Katherine Cunningham
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Saul Carcamo
- Tisch Cancer Institute Bioinformatics for Next Generation Sequencing (BiNGS) core, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Spyros Karaiskos
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Qiaosi Tang
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ricardo Cruz-Acuña
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Lois Resnick-Silverman
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jessica Peura
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Chao Lu
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Dan Hasson
- Tisch Cancer Institute Bioinformatics for Next Generation Sequencing (BiNGS) core, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Alison M. Taylor
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - James J. Manfredi
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Carol Prives
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Anil K. Rustgi
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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18
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Rani AQ, Bonam SR, Zhou J, Li J, Hu H, Liu X. BRD4 as a potential target for human papillomaviruses associated cancer. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29294. [PMID: 38100650 PMCID: PMC11315413 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Around 99% of cervical cancer and 5%-10% of human cancer are associated with human papillomaviruses (HPV). Notably, the life-cycle of HPV begins by low-level infection of the basal cells of the stratified epithelium, where the viral genomes are replicated and passed on to the daughter proliferating basal cells. The production of new viral particles remains restricted to eventually differentiated cells. HPVs support their persistent infectious cycle by hijacking pivotal pathways and cellular processes. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is one of the essential cellular factors involved in multiple stages of viral transcription and replication. In this review, we demonstrate the role of BRD4 in the multiple stages of HPV infectious cycle. Also, we provide an overview of the intense research about the cellular functions of BRD4, the mechanism of action of bromodomain and extra terminal inhibitors, and how it could lead to the development of antiviral/anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Qawee Rani
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Srinivasa Reddy Bonam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jenny Li
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Haitao Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Xuefeng Liu
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Departments of Pathology, Urology and Radiation Oncology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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19
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Bigger-Allen A, Gheinani AH, Adam RM. Investigation of the impact of bromodomain inhibition on cytoskeleton stability and contraction. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.14.567076. [PMID: 38014184 PMCID: PMC10680757 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.14.567076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Injury to contractile organs such as the heart, vasculature, urinary bladder and gut can stimulate a pathological response that results in loss of normal contractility. PDGF and TGFβ are among the most well studied initiators of the injury response and have been shown to induce aberrant contraction in mechanically active cells of hollow organs including smooth muscle cells (SMC) and fibroblasts. However the mechanisms driving contractile alterations downstream of PDGF and TGFβ in SMC and fibroblasts are incompletely understood, limiting therapeutic interventions. To identify potential molecular targets, we have leveraged the analysis of publicly available data, comparing transcriptomic changes in mechanically active cells stimulated with PDGF and TGFβ and identified a shared molecular profile regulated by MYC and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. We also analyzed data sets from SMC and fibroblasts treated in the presence or absence of the MYC inhibitor JQ1. This analysis revealed a unique set of cytoskeleton-associated genes that were sensitive to MYC inhibition. JQ1 was also able to attenuate TGFβ and PDGF induced changes to the cytoskeleton and contraction of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts in vitro. These findings identify MYC as a key driver of aberrant cytoskeletal and contractile changes in fibroblasts and SMC, and suggest that JQ1 could be used to restore normal contractile function in hollow organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bigger-Allen
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Biological & Biomedical Sciences Program, Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ali Hashemi Gheinani
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Functional Urology Research Group, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rosalyn M. Adam
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
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20
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Bi T, Liang P, Zhou Y, Wang H, Huang R, Sun Q, Shen H, Yang S, Ren W, Liu Z. Rational Design of Bioorthogonally Activatable PROTAC for Tumor-Targeted Protein Degradation. J Med Chem 2023; 66:14843-14852. [PMID: 37871321 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Protein degradation mediated by the proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) has emerged as an efficient strategy to accurately control intracellular protein levels. However, the development of PROTACs is limited by their systemic toxicity. Herein, we report a bioorthogonally activatable prodrug (BT-PROTAC) strategy to accurately control the activity of PROTACs. As a proof of concept, we introduced the highly reactive trans-cyclooctene into PROTAC molecule MZ1, the structure-acitivity relationships of which were well characterized previously, to construct the bioorthogonally activatable prodrug BT-PROTAC. Compared with MZ1, BT-PROTAC is incapable of degradation of BRD4 protein. However, BT-PROTAC can be activated by highly active tetrazine compound BODIPY-TZ in vitro. Furthermore, we could selectively degrade BRD4 protein in tumor tissue enabled by tumor-targeted tetrazine compound IR808-TZ. This strategy may represent an alternative to existing strategies and may be widely applied in the design of BT-PROTAC targeting other proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Bi
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Pan Liang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yanan Zhou
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Hong Wang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Rui Huang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Qin Sun
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Hongping Shen
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Sijin Yang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Wei Ren
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Zengjin Liu
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base and Drug Research Center of the Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road, Luzhou 646000, China
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21
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Ma T, Chen Y, Yi ZG, Li YH, Bai J, Li LJ, Zhang LS. BET in hematologic tumors: Immunity, pathogenesis, clinical trials and drug combinations. Genes Dis 2023; 10:2306-2319. [PMID: 37554207 PMCID: PMC10404881 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins act as "readers" for lysine acetylation and facilitate the recruitment of transcriptional elongation complexes. BET protein is associated with transcriptional elongation of genes such as c-MYC and BCL-2, and is involved in the regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis. Meanwhile, BET inhibitors (BETi) have regulatory effects on immune checkpoints, immune cells, and cytokine expression. The role of BET proteins and BETi in a variety of tumors has been studied. This paper reviews the recent research progress of BET and BETi in hematologic tumors (mainly leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma) from cellular level studies, animal studies, clinical trials, drug combination, etc. BETi has a promising future in hematologic tumors, and future research directions may focus on the combination with other drugs to improve the efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Ma
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Yi
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yan-Hong Li
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jun Bai
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Li-Juan Li
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Lian-Sheng Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
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22
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Zeng Y, Jiang H, Zhang X, Xu J, Wu X, Xu Q, Cai W, Ying H, Zhou R, Ding Y, Ying K, Song X, Chen Z, Zeng L, Zhao L, Yu F. Canagliflozin reduces chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma through PKM2-c-Myc complex-mediated glutamine starvation. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:571-586. [PMID: 37696420 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Cisplatin (CPT) is one of the standard treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its use is limits as a monotherapy due to drug resistance, and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. To solve this problem, we tried using canagliflozin (CANA), a clinical drug for diabetes, to reduce chemoresistance to CPT, and the result showed that CANA could vigorously inhibit cell proliferation and migration independent of the original target SGLT2. Mechanistically, CANA reduced aerobic glycolysis in HCC by targeting PKM2. The downregulated PKM2 directly bound to the transcription factor c-Myc in the cytoplasm to form a complex, which upregulated the level of phosphorylated c-Myc Thr58 and promoted the ubiquitination and degradation of c-Myc. Decreased c-Myc reduced the expression of GLS1, a key enzyme in glutamine metabolism, leading to impaired glutamine utilization. Finally, intracellular glutamine starvation induced ferroptosis and sensitized HCC to CPT. In conclusion, our study showed that CANA re-sensitized HCC to CPT by inducing ferroptosis through dual effects on glycolysis and glutamine metabolism. This is a novel mechanism to increase chemosensitivity, which may provide compatible chemotherapy drugs for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haoran Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangting Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weimin Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huiya Ying
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ruoru Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingrong Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kanglei Ying
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xian Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhuoyan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liuwei Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Luying Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Fujun Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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23
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Jha RK, Kouzine F, Levens D. MYC function and regulation in physiological perspective. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1268275. [PMID: 37941901 PMCID: PMC10627926 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1268275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
MYC, a key member of the Myc-proto-oncogene family, is a universal transcription amplifier that regulates almost every physiological process in a cell including cell cycle, proliferation, metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. MYC interacts with several cofactors, chromatin modifiers, and regulators to direct gene expression. MYC levels are tightly regulated, and deregulation of MYC has been associated with numerous diseases including cancer. Understanding the comprehensive biology of MYC under physiological conditions is an utmost necessity to demark biological functions of MYC from its pathological functions. Here we review the recent advances in biological mechanisms, functions, and regulation of MYC. We also emphasize the role of MYC as a global transcription amplifier.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Levens
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, MD, United States
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24
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Kotekar A, Singh AK, Devaiah BN. BRD4 and MYC: power couple in transcription and disease. FEBS J 2023; 290:4820-4842. [PMID: 35866356 PMCID: PMC9867786 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The MYC proto-oncogene and BRD4, a BET family protein, are two cardinal proteins that have a broad influence in cell biology and disease. Both proteins are expressed ubiquitously in mammalian cells and play central roles in controlling growth, development, stress responses and metabolic function. As chromatin and transcriptional regulators, they play a critical role in regulating the expression of a burgeoning array of genes, maintaining chromatin architecture and genome stability. Consequently, impairment of their function or regulation leads to many diseases, with cancer being the most predominant. Interestingly, accumulating evidence indicates that regulation of the expression and functions of MYC are tightly intertwined with BRD4 at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Here, we review the mechanisms by which MYC and BRD4 are regulated, their functions in governing various molecular mechanisms and the consequences of their dysregulation that lead to disease. We present a perspective of how the regulatory mechanisms for the two proteins could be entwined at multiple points in a BRD4-MYC nexus that leads to the modulation of their functions and disease upon dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Kotekar
- Experimental Immunology Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Amit Kumar Singh
- Experimental Immunology Branch, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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25
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Serebrenik YV, Mani D, Maujean T, Burslem GM, Shalem O. Pooled endogenous protein tagging and recruitment for scalable discovery of effectors for induced proximity therapeutics. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3161717. [PMID: 37790450 PMCID: PMC10543026 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3161717/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The field of induced proximity therapeutics is in its ascendancy but is limited by a lack of scalable tools to systematically explore effector-target protein pairs in an unbiased manner. Here, we combined Scalable POoled Targeting with a LIgandable Tag at Endogenous Sites (SPOTLITES) for the high-throughput tagging of endogenous proteins, with generic small molecule-based protein recruitment to screen for novel proximity-based effectors. We apply this methodology in two orthogonal screens for targeted protein degradation: the first using fluorescence to monitor target protein levels directly, and the second using a cellular growth phenotype that depends on the degradation of an essential protein. Our screens revealed a multitude of potential new effector proteins for degradation and converged on members of the CTLH complex which we demonstrate potently induce degradation. Altogether, we introduce a platform for pooled induction of endogenous protein-protein interactions that can be used to expand our toolset of effector proteins for targeted protein degradation and other forms of induced proximity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yevgeniy V. Serebrenik
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Deepak Mani
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Timothé Maujean
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - George M. Burslem
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ophir Shalem
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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26
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Serebrenik YV, Mani D, Maujean T, Burslem GM, Shalem O. Pooled endogenous protein tagging and recruitment for scalable discovery of effectors for induced proximity therapeutics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.13.548759. [PMID: 37503056 PMCID: PMC10369964 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.13.548759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The field of induced proximity therapeutics is in its ascendancy but is limited by a lack of scalable tools to systematically explore effector-target protein pairs in an unbiased manner. Here, we combined Scalable POoled Targeting with a LIgandable Tag at Endogenous Sites (SPOTLITES) for the high-throughput tagging of endogenous proteins, with generic small molecule-based protein recruitment to screen for novel proximity-based effectors. We apply this methodology in two orthogonal screens for targeted protein degradation: the first using fluorescence to monitor target protein levels directly, and the second using a cellular growth phenotype that depends on the degradation of an essential protein. Our screens revealed a multitude of potential new effector proteins for degradation and converged on members of the CTLH complex which we demonstrate potently induce degradation. Altogether, we introduce a platform for pooled induction of endogenous protein-protein interactions that can be used to expand our toolset of effector proteins for targeted protein degradation and other forms of induced proximity.
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27
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Copeland CA, Olenchock BA, Ziehr D, McGarrity S, Leahy K, Young JD, Loscalzo J, Oldham WM. MYC overrides HIF-1α to regulate proliferating primary cell metabolism in hypoxia. eLife 2023; 12:e82597. [PMID: 37428010 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia requires metabolic adaptations to sustain energetically demanding cellular activities. While the metabolic consequences of hypoxia have been studied extensively in cancer cell models, comparatively little is known about how primary cell metabolism responds to hypoxia. Thus, we developed metabolic flux models for human lung fibroblast and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells proliferating in hypoxia. Unexpectedly, we found that hypoxia decreased glycolysis despite activation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and increased glycolytic enzyme expression. While HIF-1α activation in normoxia by prolyl hydroxylase (PHD) inhibition did increase glycolysis, hypoxia blocked this effect. Multi-omic profiling revealed distinct molecular responses to hypoxia and PHD inhibition, and suggested a critical role for MYC in modulating HIF-1α responses to hypoxia. Consistent with this hypothesis, MYC knockdown in hypoxia increased glycolysis and MYC over-expression in normoxia decreased glycolysis stimulated by PHD inhibition. These data suggest that MYC signaling in hypoxia uncouples an increase in HIF-dependent glycolytic gene transcription from glycolytic flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Copeland
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Benjamin A Olenchock
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - David Ziehr
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Sarah McGarrity
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
- Center for Systems Biology, School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Kevin Leahy
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Jamey D Young
- Departments of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Joseph Loscalzo
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - William M Oldham
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
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28
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Nirala BK, Patel TD, Kurenbekova L, Shuck R, Dasgupta A, Rainusso N, Coarfa C, Yustein JT. MYC regulates CSF1 expression via microRNA 17/20a to modulate tumor-associated macrophages in osteosarcoma. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e164947. [PMID: 37279073 PMCID: PMC10371352 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.164947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone tumor of childhood. Approximately 20%-30% of OSs carry amplification of chromosome 8q24, which harbors the oncogene c-MYC and correlates with a poor prognosis. To understand the mechanisms that underlie the ability of MYC to alter both the tumor and its surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), we generated and molecularly characterized an osteoblast-specific Cre-Lox-Stop-Lox-c-MycT58A p53fl/+ knockin genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM). Phenotypically, the Myc-knockin GEMM had rapid tumor development with a high incidence of metastasis. MYC-dependent gene signatures in our murine model demonstrated significant homology to the human hyperactivated MYC OS. We established that hyperactivation of MYC led to an immune-depleted TME in OS demonstrated by the reduced number of leukocytes, particularly macrophages. MYC hyperactivation led to the downregulation of macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1, through increased microRNA 17/20a expression, causing a reduction of macrophage population in the TME of OS. Furthermore, we developed cell lines from the GEMM tumors, including a degradation tag-MYC model system, which validated our MYC-dependent findings both in vitro and in vivo. Our studies utilized innovative and clinically relevant models to identify a potentially novel molecular mechanism through which MYC regulates the profile and function of the OS immune landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikesh K. Nirala
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Tajhal D. Patel
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Lyazat Kurenbekova
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Ryan Shuck
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Atreyi Dasgupta
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Nino Rainusso
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, and
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jason T. Yustein
- Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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29
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Yang X, Gao Y, Cao F, Wang S. Molecular Dynamics Simulations Combined with Markov Model to Explore the Effect of Allosteric Inhibitor Binding on Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10831. [PMID: 37446009 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4 (BRD4) can play an important role in gene transcriptional regulation of tumor development and survival by participating in histone modification epigenetic mechanism. Although it has been reported that novel allosteric inhibitors such as ZL0590 have a high affinity with target protein BRD4 and good efficacy, their inhibitory mechanism has not been studied further. The aim of this study was to reveal the inhibition mechanism of allosteric inhibitor ZL0590 on Free-BRD4 and BRD4 binding MS436 (orthosteric inhibitor) by molecular dynamics simulation combined with a Markov model. Our results showed that BRD4-ZL0590 led to α-helices formation of 100-105 compared with Free-BRD4; the combination of MS436 caused residues 30-40 and 95-105 to form α-helices, while the combination of allosteric inhibitors untangled the α-helices formed by the MS436. The results of Markov flux analysis showed that the binding process of inhibitors mainly involved changes in the degree of α-helices at ZA loop. The binding of ZL0590 reduced the distance between ZA loop and BC loop, blocked the conformation at the active site, and inhibited the binding of MS436. After the allosteric inhibitor binding, the MS436 that could normally penetrate into the interior of the pocket was floating on the edge of the active pocket and did not continue to penetrate into the active pocket as expected. In summary, we provide a theoretical basis for the inhibition mechanism of ZL0590 against BRD4, which can be used as a reference for improving the development of drug targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotang Yang
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yilin Gao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Fuyan Cao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Song Wang
- The Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130012, China
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Vízkeleti L, Spisák S. Rewired Metabolism Caused by the Oncogenic Deregulation of MYC as an Attractive Therapeutic Target in Cancers. Cells 2023; 12:1745. [PMID: 37443779 PMCID: PMC10341379 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131745] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
MYC is one of the most deregulated oncogenes on multiple levels in cancer. As a node transcription factor, MYC plays a diverse regulatory role in many cellular processes, including cell cycle and metabolism, both in physiological and pathological conditions. The relentless growth and proliferation of tumor cells lead to an insatiable demand for energy and nutrients, which requires the rewiring of cellular metabolism. As MYC can orchestrate all aspects of cellular metabolism, its altered regulation plays a central role in these processes, such as the Warburg effect, and is a well-established hallmark of cancer development. However, our current knowledge of MYC suggests that its spatial- and concentration-dependent contribution to tumorigenesis depends more on changes in the global or relative expression of target genes. As the direct targeting of MYC is proven to be challenging due to its relatively high toxicity, understanding its underlying regulatory mechanisms is essential for the development of tumor-selective targeted therapies. The aim of this review is to comprehensively summarize the diverse forms of MYC oncogenic deregulation, including DNA-, transcriptional- and post-translational level alterations, and their consequences for cellular metabolism. Furthermore, we also review the currently available and potentially attractive therapeutic options that exploit the vulnerability arising from the metabolic rearrangement of MYC-driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vízkeleti
- Department of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Sándor Spisák
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
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31
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Shah PP, Beverly LJ. UBQLN Family Members Regulate MYC in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3389. [PMID: 37444499 PMCID: PMC10340487 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquilin family (UBQLN) of proteins consists of five closely related members (UBQLN1, UBQLN2, UBQLN3, UBQLN4, and UBQLNL) that have a high degree of similarity at the level of both amino acid and domain structure. The role of UBQLN1 and UBQLN2 in regulating processes involved in cancer progression and tumorigenesis is still not completely understood. MYC is an oncogene and is well known to play important roles in cancer progression and metastasis. Herein, we show that the loss of UBQLN1 and UBQLN2 causes increased cell viability, cell proliferation, cell migration, clonogenic potential, and cell cycle progression, which is associated with increased MYC expression. UBQLN1 and UBQLN2 interact with phosphorylated MYC and facilitate its degradation. The overexpression of UBQLN1 reverses the increased expression of MYC following the loss of UBQLN2. Further, we present evidence that decreasing MYC levels back to baseline can reverse phenotypes driven by the loss of UBQLN1 or UBQLN2. Finally, we show that loss of UBQLN1 drives tumorigenesis and lung metastasis in mice which are associated with an increase in the expression of MYC, proteins involved in cell cycle progression, and EMT. Taken together, our results suggest for the first time a novel role of UBQLN1 and UBQLN2 in regulating MYC in lung adenocarcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parag P. Shah
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
| | - Levi J. Beverly
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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32
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Duan W, Yu M, Chen J. BRD4: New Hope in the Battle Against Glioblastoma. Pharmacol Res 2023; 191:106767. [PMID: 37061146 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
The BET family proteins, comprising BRD2, BRD3 and BRD4, represent epigenetic readers of acetylated histone marks that play pleiotropic roles in the tumorigenesis and growth of multiple human malignancies, including glioblastoma (GBM). A growing body of investigation has proven BET proteins as valuable therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Recently, several BRD4 inhibitors and degraders have been reported to successfully suppress GBM in preclinical and clinical studies. However, the precise role and mechanism of BRD4 in the pathogenesis of GBM have not been fully elucidated or summarized. This review focuses on summarizing the roles and mechanisms of BRD4 in the context of the initiation and development of GBM. In addition, several BRD4 inhibitors have been evaluated for therapeutic purposes as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immune therapies. Here, we provide a critical appraisal of studies evaluating various BRD4 inhibitors and degraders as novel treatment strategies against GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichen Duan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Kelm JM, Pandey DS, Malin E, Kansou H, Arora S, Kumar R, Gavande NS. PROTAC'ing oncoproteins: targeted protein degradation for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:62. [PMID: 36991452 PMCID: PMC10061819 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01707-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecularly targeted cancer therapies substantially improve patient outcomes, although the durability of their effectiveness can be limited. Resistance to these therapies is often related to adaptive changes in the target oncoprotein which reduce binding affinity. The arsenal of targeted cancer therapies, moreover, lacks coverage of several notorious oncoproteins with challenging features for inhibitor development. Degraders are a relatively new therapeutic modality which deplete the target protein by hijacking the cellular protein destruction machinery. Degraders offer several advantages for cancer therapy including resiliency to acquired mutations in the target protein, enhanced selectivity, lower dosing requirements, and the potential to abrogate oncogenic transcription factors and scaffolding proteins. Herein, we review the development of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for selected cancer therapy targets and their reported biological activities. The medicinal chemistry of PROTAC design has been a challenging area of active research, but the recent advances in the field will usher in an era of rational degrader design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Kelm
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Deepti S Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Evan Malin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hussein Kansou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Sahil Arora
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Raj Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Navnath S Gavande
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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Mandl A, Markowski MC, Carducci MA, Antonarakis ES. Role of bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins in prostate cancer. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:213-228. [PMID: 36857796 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2186851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) family of proteins are epigenetic readers of acetylated histones and are critical activators of oncogenic networks across many cancers. Therapeutic targeting of BET proteins has been an attractive area of clinical development for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. In recent years, many structurally diverse BET inhibitors have been discovered and tested. Preclinical studies have demonstrated significant antiproliferative activity of BET inhibitors against prostate cancer. However, their clinical success as monotherapies has been limited by treatment-associated toxicities, primary and acquired drug resistance, and a lack of predictive biomarkers of benefit. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of advancements in BET inhibitor design, preclinical research, and conclusions from clinical trials in prostate cancer. We speculate on incorporating BET inhibitors into combination regimens with other agents to improve the therapeutic index of BET inhibition in treating prostate cancer. EXPERT OPINION The therapeutic potential of BET inhibitors for prostate cancer has been demonstrated in preclinical studies. However, further research is needed to identify biomarkers that can predict sensitivity to BET inhibitors and to develop novel, highly selective inhibitors to reduce toxicities. Finally, BET inhibitors are likely to hold the most clinical potential in combination with other agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Mandl
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mark C Markowski
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael A Carducci
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emmanuel S Antonarakis
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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When Just One Phosphate Is One Too Many: The Multifaceted Interplay between Myc and Kinases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054746. [PMID: 36902175 PMCID: PMC10003727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myc transcription factors are key regulators of many cellular processes, with Myc target genes crucially implicated in the management of cell proliferation and stem pluripotency, energy metabolism, protein synthesis, angiogenesis, DNA damage response, and apoptosis. Given the wide involvement of Myc in cellular dynamics, it is not surprising that its overexpression is frequently associated with cancer. Noteworthy, in cancer cells where high Myc levels are maintained, the overexpression of Myc-associated kinases is often observed and required to foster tumour cells' proliferation. A mutual interplay exists between Myc and kinases: the latter, which are Myc transcriptional targets, phosphorylate Myc, allowing its transcriptional activity, highlighting a clear regulatory loop. At the protein level, Myc activity and turnover is also tightly regulated by kinases, with a finely tuned balance between translation and rapid protein degradation. In this perspective, we focus on the cross-regulation of Myc and its associated protein kinases underlying similar and redundant mechanisms of regulation at different levels, from transcriptional to post-translational events. Furthermore, a review of the indirect effects of known kinase inhibitors on Myc provides an opportunity to identify alternative and combined therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment.
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36
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Das SK, Lewis BA, Levens D. MYC: a complex problem. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:235-246. [PMID: 35963793 PMCID: PMC9911561 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The MYC protooncogene functions as a universal amplifier of transcription through interaction with numerous factors and complexes that regulate almost every cellular process. However, a comprehensive model that explains MYC's actions and the interplay governing the complicated dynamics of components of the transcription and replication machinery is still lacking. Here, we review the potency of MYC as an oncogenic driver and how it regulates the broad spectrum of complexes (effectors and regulators). We propose a 'hand-over model' for differential partitioning and trafficking of unstructured MYC via a loose interaction network between various gene-regulatory complexes and factors. Additionally, the article discusses how unstructured-MYC energetically favors efficient modulation of the energy landscape of the transcription cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhendu K Das
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, MD 20892-1500, USA
| | - Brian A Lewis
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, MD 20892-1500, USA
| | - David Levens
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, MD 20892-1500, USA.
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The "Superoncogene" Myc at the Crossroad between Metabolism and Gene Expression in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044217. [PMID: 36835628 PMCID: PMC9966483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044217] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of the Myc (c-myc, n-myc, l-myc) oncogene as a canonical, DNA-bound transcription factor has consistently changed over the past few years. Indeed, Myc controls gene expression programs at multiple levels: directly binding chromatin and recruiting transcriptional coregulators; modulating the activity of RNA polymerases (RNAPs); and drawing chromatin topology. Therefore, it is evident that Myc deregulation in cancer is a dramatic event. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most lethal, still incurable, brain cancer in adults, and it is characterized in most cases by Myc deregulation. Metabolic rewiring typically occurs in cancer cells, and GBM undergoes profound metabolic changes to supply increased energy demand. In nontransformed cells, Myc tightly controls metabolic pathways to maintain cellular homeostasis. Consistently, in Myc-overexpressing cancer cells, including GBM cells, these highly controlled metabolic routes are affected by enhanced Myc activity and show substantial alterations. On the other hand, deregulated cancer metabolism impacts Myc expression and function, placing Myc at the intersection between metabolic pathway activation and gene expression. In this review paper, we summarize the available information on GBM metabolism with a specific focus on the control of the Myc oncogene that, in turn, rules the activation of metabolic signals, ensuring GBM growth.
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Xu KY, Wang XT, Cheng L, Cui QH, Shi JT, Zhang LW, Chen SW. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of quinoxalinone derivatives as potent BRD4 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 78:117152. [PMID: 36599264 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117152] [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: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) has gained growing interest as an effective drug target for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we designed and synthesized a series of quinoxalinone derivatives as BRD4 inhibitors via scaffold hopping. The representative compound X9 showed potent BRD4 inhibitory activity (with IC50 = 82.3 nM), and preferable antiproliferative activity against HepG2 cells (with IC50 = 1.13 ± 0.07 μM), as well as less toxicity against GES-1 cells (with IC50 = 57.24 ± 5.46 μM). Furthermore, compound X9 dose-dependently inhibited colony formation and blocked the migration of HepG2 cells by down-regulating the expression of Snail and MMP-9 while up-regulating the E-cadherin and Occludin. Besides, compound X9 efficiently down-regulated the expression of c-Myc in HepG2 cells, induced apoptosis, and arrested at G0/G1 phase. In total, quinoxalinone was a potential core as BRD4 inhibitor and compound X9 might be effective for liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Yan Xu
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xue-Ting Wang
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Lei Cheng
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qi-Hang Cui
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jian-Tao Shi
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Li-Wen Zhang
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shi-Wu Chen
- School of Pharmacy & Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Xiong Y, Wang L, Xu S, Fu B, Che Y, Zaky MY, Tian R, Yao R, Guo D, Sha Z, Lin F, Lin X, Wu H. Small molecule Z363 co-regulates TAF10 and MYC via the E3 ligase TRIP12 to suppress tumour growth. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1153. [PMID: 36639831 PMCID: PMC9839843 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The MYC oncoprotein, also known as the master regulator of genes, is a transcription factor that regulates numerous physiological processes, including cell cycle control, apoptosis, protein synthesis and cell adhesion, among others. MYC is overexpressed in approximately 70% of human cancers. Given its pervasive role in cancer biology, MYC down-regulation has become an attractive cancer treatment strategy. METHODS The CRISPR/Cas9 method was used to produce KO cell models. Western blot was used to analyzed the expressions of MYC and TATA-binding proteinassociated factors 10 (TAF10) in cancer cells (MCF7, A549, HepG2 cells) Cell culture studies were performed to determine the mechanisms by which small molecules (Z363119456, Z363) affects MYC and TAF10 expressions and functions. Mouse studies were carried out to investigate the impact of Z363 regulation on tumor growth. RESULTS Z363 activate Thyroid hormone Receptor-interacting Protein 12 (TRIP12), which phosphorylates MYC at Thr58, resulting in MYC ubiquitination and degradation and thereby regulating MYC target genes. Importantly, TRIP12 also induces TAF10 degradation, which reduces MYC protein levels. TRIP12, an E3 ligase, controls MYC levels both directly and indirectly by inhibiting MYC or TAF10 activity. CONCLUSIONS In summary,these results demonstrate the anti-cancer properties of Z363, a small molecule that is co-regulated by TAF10 and MYC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiong
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Shiyao Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Beibei Fu
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Yuchen Che
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Mohamed Y. Zaky
- Molecular Physiology DivisionZoology DepartmentFaculty of ScienceBeni‐Suef UniversityBeni‐SuefEgypt,Department of OncologyFaculty of MedicineLinköping UniversitySweden,Department of Biomedical and Clinical SciencesFaculty of MedicineLinköping UniversitySweden
| | - Rong Tian
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical SciencesFaculty of MedicineLinköping UniversitySweden
| | - Rui Yao
- Department of PathologyChongqing Hygeia HospitalChongqingChina
| | - Dong Guo
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Zhou Sha
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Feng Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xiaoyuan Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Haibo Wu
- Department of Physiology, School of Life SciencesChongqing UniversityChongqingChina
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Chen J, Wang Z, Phuc T, Xu Z, Yang D, Chen Z, Lin Z, Kendrick S, Dai L, Li HY, Qin Z. Oncolytic strategy using new bifunctional HDACs/BRD4 inhibitors against virus-associated lymphomas. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011089. [PMID: 36638143 PMCID: PMC9879403 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) caused by Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis even under chemotherapy. Currently, there is no specific treatment for PEL therefore requiring new therapies. Both histone deacetylases (HDACs) and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) have been found as therapeutic targets for PEL through inducing viral lytic reactivation. However, the strategy of dual targeting with one agent and potential synergistic effects have never been explored. In the current study, we first demonstrated the synergistic effect of concurrently targeting HDACs and BRD4 on KSHV reactivation by using SAHA or entinostat (HDACs inhibitors) and (+)-JQ1 (BRD4 inhibitor), which indicated dual blockage of HDACs/BRD4 is a viable therapeutic approach. We were then able to rationally design and synthesize a series of new small-molecule inhibitors targeting HDACs and BRD4 with a balanced activity profile by generating a hybrid of the key binding motifs between (+)-JQ1 and entinostat or SAHA. Upon two iterative screenings of optimized compounds, a pair of epimers, 009P1 and 009P2, were identified to better inhibit the growth of KSHV positive lymphomas compared to (+)-JQ1 or SAHA alone at low nanomolar concentrations, but not KSHV negative control cells or normal cells. Mechanistic studies of 009P1 and 009P2 demonstrated significantly enhanced viral reactivation, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in KSHV+ lymphomas through dually targeting HDACs and BRD4 signaling activities. Importantly, in vivo preclinical studies showed that 009P1 and 009P2 dramatically suppressed KSHV+ lymphoma progression with oral bioavailability and minimal visible toxicity. These data together provide a novel strategy for the development of agents for inducing lytic activation-based therapies against these viruses-associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungang Chen
- Department of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Zhengyu Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Tran Phuc
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Zhigang Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Yongchuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Donglin Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Yongchuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengzhu Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Yongchuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Lin
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, Tulane Cancer Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Samantha Kendrick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Lu Dai
- Department of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Hong-yu Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (HL); (ZQ)
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Department of Pathology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (HL); (ZQ)
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Zerio CJ, Sivinski J, Wijeratne EMK, Xu YM, Ngo DT, Ambrose AJ, Villa-Celis L, Ghadirian N, Clarkson MW, Zhang DD, Horton NC, Gunatilaka AAL, Fromme R, Chapman E. Physachenolide C is a Potent, Selective BET Inhibitor. J Med Chem 2023; 66:913-933. [PMID: 36577036 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A pulldown using a biotinylated natural product of interest in the 17β-hydroxywithanolide (17-BHW) class, physachenolide C (PCC), identified the bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) family of proteins (BRD2, BRD3, and BRD4), readers of acetyl-lysine modifications and regulators of gene transcription, as potential cellular targets. BROMOscan bromodomain profiling and biochemical assays support PCC as a BET inhibitor with increased selectivity for bromodomain (BD)-1 of BRD3 and BRD4, and X-ray crystallography and NMR studies uncovered specific contacts that underlie the potency and selectivity of PCC toward BRD3-BD1 over BRD3-BD2. PCC also displays characteristics of a molecular glue, facilitating proteasome-mediated degradation of BRD3 and BRD4. Finally, PCC is more potent than other withanolide analogues and gold-standard pan-BET inhibitor (+)-JQ1 in cytotoxicity assays across five prostate cancer (PC) cell lines regardless of androgen receptor (AR)-signaling status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Zerio
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jared Sivinski
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - E M Kithsiri Wijeratne
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, Southwest Center for Natural Products Research, University of Arizona, 250 E. Valencia Road, Tucson, Arizona 85706, United States
| | - Ya-Ming Xu
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, Southwest Center for Natural Products Research, University of Arizona, 250 E. Valencia Road, Tucson, Arizona 85706, United States
| | - Duc T Ngo
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Andrew J Ambrose
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Luis Villa-Celis
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Niloofar Ghadirian
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Arizona, 1007 E. Lowell Street, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Michael W Clarkson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, 1041 E. Lowell Street, Tucson, Arizona 85719, United States
| | - Donna D Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Nancy C Horton
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Arizona, 1007 E. Lowell Street, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - A A Leslie Gunatilaka
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, Southwest Center for Natural Products Research, University of Arizona, 250 E. Valencia Road, Tucson, Arizona 85706, United States
| | - Raimund Fromme
- School of Molecular Sciences, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Eli Chapman
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, PO Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
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Ren L, Yang Y, Li W, Yang H, Zhang Y, Ge B, Zhang S, Du G, Wang J. Recent advances in epigenetic anticancer therapeutics and future perspectives. Front Genet 2023; 13:1085391. [PMID: 36685834 PMCID: PMC9845602 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1085391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor development is frequently accompanied by abnormal expression of multiple genomic genes, which can be broadly viewed as decreased expression of tumor suppressor genes and upregulated expression of oncogenes. In this process, epigenetic regulation plays an essential role in the regulation of gene expression without alteration of DNA or RNA sequence, including DNA methylation, RNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs. Therefore, drugs developed for the above epigenetic modulation have entered clinical use or preclinical and clinical research stages, contributing to the development of antitumor drugs greatly. Despite the efficacy of epigenetic drugs in hematologic caners, their therapeutic effects in solid tumors have been less favorable. A growing body of research suggests that epigenetic drugs can be applied in combination with other therapies to increase efficacy and overcome tumor resistance. In this review, the progress of epigenetics in tumor progression and oncology drug development is systematically summarized, as well as its synergy with other oncology therapies. The future directions of epigenetic drug development are described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Ren
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yihui Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wan Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yizhi Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Binbin Ge
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jinhua Wang,
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The Role of Bromodomain and Extraterminal (BET) Proteins in Controlling the Phagocytic Activity of Microglia In Vitro: Relevance to Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010013. [PMID: 36613460 PMCID: PMC9820364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010013] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The correct phagocytic activity of microglia is a prerequisite for maintaining homeostasis in the brain. In the analysis of mechanisms regulating microglial phagocytosis, we focused on the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) proteins: Brd2, Brd3, and Brd4, the acetylation code readers that control gene expression in cooperation with transcription factors. We used pharmacological (JQ1) and genetic (siRNA) inhibition of BET proteins in murine microglial cell line BV2. Inhibition of BET proteins reduced the phagocytic activity of BV2, as determined by using a fluorescent microspheres-based assay and fluorescently labelled amyloid-beta peptides. Gene silencing experiments demonstrated that all brain-existing BET isoforms control phagocytosis in microglia. From a set of 84 phagocytosis-related genes, we have found the attenuation of the expression of 14: Siglec1, Sirpb1a, Cd36, Clec7a, Itgam, Tlr3, Fcgr1, Cd14, Marco, Pld1, Fcgr2b, Anxa1, Tnf, Nod1, upon BET inhibition. Further analysis of the mRNA level of other phagocytosis-related genes which were involved in the pathomechanism of Alzheimer's disease demonstrated that JQ1 significantly reduced the expression of Cd33, Trem2, and Zyx. Our results indicate the important role of BET proteins in controlling microglial phagocytosis; therefore, targeting BET may be the efficient method of modulating microglial activity.
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Koroleva OA, Dutikova YV, Trubnikov AV, Zenov FA, Manasova EV, Shtil AA, Kurkin AV. PROTAC: targeted drug strategy. Principles and limitations. Russ Chem Bull 2022; 71:2310-2334. [PMID: 36569659 PMCID: PMC9762658 DOI: 10.1007/s11172-022-3659-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The PROTAC (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera) technology is a method of targeting intracellular proteins previously considered undruggable. This technology utilizes the ubiquitin-proteasome system in cells to specifically degrade target proteins, thereby offering significant advantages over conventional small-molecule inhibitors of the enzymatic function. Preclinical and preliminary clinical trials of PROTAC-based compounds (degraders) are presented. The review considers the general principles of the design of degraders. Advances and challenges of the PROTAC technology are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. A. Koroleva
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Yu. V. Dutikova
- Patent & Law Firm “A. Zalesov and Partners”, Build. 9, 2 ul. Marshala Rybalko, 123060 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. V. Trubnikov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - F. A. Zenov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - E. V. Manasova
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. A. Shtil
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
- N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Build. 15, 24 Kashirskoe shosse, 115478 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A. V. Kurkin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Build. 3, 1 Leninskie Gory, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
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Gu Z, Yu C. Harnessing bioactive nanomaterials in modulating tumor glycolysis-associated metabolism. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:528. [PMID: 36510194 PMCID: PMC9746179 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01740-y] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycolytic reprogramming is emerging as a hallmark of various cancers and a promising therapeutic target. Nanotechnology is revolutionizing the anti-tumor therapeutic approaches associated with glycolysis. Finely controlled chemical composition and nanostructure provide nanomaterials unique advantages, enabling an excellent platform for integrated drug delivery, biochemical modulation and combination therapy. Recent studies have shown promising potential of nanotherapeutic strategies in modulating tumor glycolytic metabolism alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. To foster more innovation in this cutting-edge and interdisciplinary field, this review summarizes recent understandings of the origin and development of tumor glycolysis, then provides the latest advances in how nanomaterials modulate tumor glycolysis-related metabolism. The interplay of nanochemistry, metabolism and immunity is highlighted. Ultimately, the challenges and opportunities are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengying Gu
- grid.22069.3f0000 0004 0369 6365School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241 People’s Republic of China
| | - Chengzhong Yu
- grid.22069.3f0000 0004 0369 6365School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241 People’s Republic of China ,grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
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Tsoi H, Tsang WC, Man EPS, Leung MH, You CP, Chan SY, Chan WL, Khoo US. Checkpoint Kinase 2 Inhibition Can Reverse Tamoxifen Resistance in ER-Positive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012290. [PMID: 36293165 PMCID: PMC9604393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease. Tamoxifen is frequently used to treat ER-positive breast cancer. Our team has identified a novel splice variant of NCOR2, BQ323636.1 (BQ), that mediates tamoxifen resistance. However, the upstream factors that modulate BQ expression are not apparent. This study reveals that tamoxifen treatment causes induction of DNA damage which can enhance BQ expression. We show that DNA damage can activate the ATM/CHK2 and ATR/CHK1 signalling cascades and confirm that ATM/CHK2 signalling is responsible for enhancing the protein stability of BQ. siRNA or a small inhibitor targeting CHK2 resulted in the reduction in BQ expression through reduced phosphorylation and enhanced poly-ubiquitination of BQ. Inhibition of CHK2 by CCT241533 could reverse tamoxifen resistance in vitro and in vivo. Using clinical samples in the tissue microarray, we confirmed that high p-CHK2 expression was significantly associated with high nuclear BQ expression, tamoxifen resistance and poorer overall and disease-specific survival. In conclusion, tamoxifen treatment can enhance BQ expression in ER-positive breast cancer by activating the ATM/CHK2 axis. Targeting CHK2 is a promising approach to overcoming tamoxifen resistance in ER-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Tsoi
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wai-Chung Tsang
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ellen P. S. Man
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Man-Hong Leung
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chan-Ping You
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sum-Yin Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing-Lok Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ui-Soon Khoo
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-2255-2664; Fax: +852-2218-5205
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Divakaran A, Scholtz CR, Zahid H, Lin W, Griffith EC, Lee RE, Chen T, Harki DA, Pomerantz WCK. Development of an N-Terminal BRD4 Bromodomain-Targeted Degrader. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1621-1627. [PMID: 36262390 PMCID: PMC9575167 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is a powerful induced-proximity tool to control cellular protein concentrations using small molecules. However, the design of selective degraders remains empirical. Among bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) family proteins, BRD4 is the primary therapeutic target over family members BRD2/3/T. Existing strategies for selective BRD4 degradation use pan-BET inhibitors optimized for BRD4:E3 ubiquitin ligase (E3) ternary complex formation, but these result in residual inhibition of undegraded BET-bromodomains by the pan-BET ligand, obscuring BRD4-degradation phenotypes. Using our selective inhibitor of the first BRD4 bromodomain, iBRD4-BD1 (IC50 = 12 nM, 23- to 6200-fold intra-BET selectivity), we developed dBRD4-BD1 to selectively degrade BRD4 (DC50 = 280 nM). Notably, dBRD4-BD1 upregulates BRD2/3, a result not observed with degraders using pan-BET ligands. Designing BRD4 selectivity up front enables analysis of BRD4 biology without wider BET-inhibition and simplifies designing BRD4-selective heterobifunctional molecules, such as degraders with new E3 recruiting ligands or for additional probes beyond degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Divakaran
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Cole R. Scholtz
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Huda Zahid
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Wenwei Lin
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Elizabeth C. Griffith
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Richard E. Lee
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Taosheng Chen
- Department
of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Daniel A. Harki
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - William C. K. Pomerantz
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 2231 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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Wang X, Wei X, Cao Y, Xing P. ZNF33A Promotes Tumor Progression and BET Inhibitor Resistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:1458-1469. [PMID: 35843263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Overexpression of ZNF33A (Krüppel-type zinc finger 33A) promotes carcinogenesis in several malignant tumors. However, the biochemical role and clinical importance of ZNF33A in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) still need to be explored. In this study, overexpression of ZNF33A in TNBC patient tissues and cell lines led to a worse prognosis. ZNF33A promoted cell growth and facilitated the resistance of cancer cells to inhibitors of bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) in TNBC. ZNF33A also promoted the induction of c-Myc, the primary player for the resistance to BET inhibitors in TNBC. In conclusion, ZNF33A may be a tumor growth-promoting factor associated with TNBC prognosis, and ZNF33A repression may sensitize TNBC cells to BET inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaolin Wei
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Peng Xing
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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Identification of Potential Therapeutic Target Genes in Osteoarthritis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8027987. [PMID: 35996406 PMCID: PMC9392645 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8027987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as joint failure, is characterized by joint pain and, in severe cases, can lead to loss of joint function in patients. Immune-related genes and immune cell infiltration play a crucial role in OA development. We used bioinformatics approaches to detect potential diagnostic markers and available drugs for OA while initially exploring the immune mechanisms of OA. Methods The training set GSE55235 and validation set GSE51588 and GSE55457 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by the limma package. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed on the GSE55235 dataset using the cluster profiler package. At the same time, DEGs were analyzed by gene ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). In addition, protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis was performed on the common DEGs of the three datasets using the STRING database. Proteins with direct linkage were identified as hub genes, and the relation of hub genes was subsequently analyzed using the GOSemSim package. Hub genes' expression profiles and diagnostic capabilities (ROC curves) were analyzed and validated using three datasets. In addition, we performed RT-qPCR to validate the levels of hub genes. The immune microenvironment was analyzed using the CIBERSORT package, and the relationship between hub genes and immune cells was evaluated. In addition, we used a linkage map (CMAP) database to identify available drug candidates. Finally, the GSEA of hub genes was used to decipher the potential pathways corresponding to hub genes. Results Three hub genes (CX3CR1, MYC, and TLR7) were identified. CX3CR1 and TLR7 were highly expressed in patients with OA, whereas the expression of MYC was low. The results of RT-qPCR validation were consistent with those obtained using datasets. Among these genes, CX3CR1 and TLR7 can be used as diagnostic markers. It was found that CX3CR1, MYC, and TLR7 affect the immune microenvironment of OA via different immune cells. In addition, we identified a potential drug for the treatment of OA. Altogether, CX3CR1, MYC, and TLR7 affect the immune response of OA through multiple pathways. Conclusion CX3CR1, MYC, and TLR7 are associated with various immune cells and are the potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for OA.
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miR-106b as an emerging therapeutic target in cancer. Genes Dis 2022; 9:889-899. [PMID: 35685464 PMCID: PMC9170583 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) comprise short non-coding RNAs that function in regulating the expression of tumor suppressors or oncogenes and modulate oncogenic signaling pathways in cancer. miRNAs expression alters significantly in several tumor tissues and cancer cell lines. For example, miR-106b functions as an oncogene and increases in multiple cancers. The miR-106b directly targets genes involved in tumorigenesis, proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastases. This review has focused on the miR-106b function and its downstream target in different cancers and provide perspective into how miR-106 regulates cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastases by regulating the tumor suppressor genes. Since miRNAs-based therapies are currently being developed to enhance cancer therapy outcomes, miR-106b could be an attractive and prospective candidate in different cancer types for detection, diagnosis, and prognosis assessment in the tumor.
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