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Beigl TB, Paul A, Fellmeth TP, Nguyen D, Barber L, Weller S, Schäfer B, Gillissen BF, Aulitzky WE, Kopp HG, Rehm M, Andrews DW, Pluhackova K, Essmann F. BCL-2 and BOK regulate apoptosis by interaction of their C-terminal transmembrane domains. EMBO Rep 2024:10.1038/s44319-024-00206-6. [PMID: 39048751 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00206-6] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The Bcl-2 family controls apoptosis by direct interactions of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. The principle mechanism is binding of the BH3 domain of pro-apoptotic proteins to the hydrophobic groove of anti-apoptotic siblings, which is therapeutically exploited by approved BH3-mimetic anti-cancer drugs. Evidence suggests that also the transmembrane domain (TMD) of Bcl-2 proteins can mediate Bcl-2 interactions. We developed a highly-specific split luciferase assay enabling the analysis of TMD interactions of pore-forming apoptosis effectors BAX, BAK, and BOK with anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins in living cells. We confirm homotypic interaction of the BAX-TMD, but also newly identify interaction of the TMD of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 with the TMD of BOK, a peculiar pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein. BOK-TMD and BCL-2-TMD interact at the endoplasmic reticulum. Molecular dynamics simulations confirm dynamic BOK-TMD and BCL-2-TMD dimers and stable heterotetramers. Mutation of BCL-2-TMD at predicted key residues abolishes interaction with BOK-TMD. Also, inhibition of BOK-induced apoptosis by BCL-2 depends specifically on their TMDs. Thus, TMDs of Bcl-2 proteins are a relevant interaction interface for apoptosis regulation and provide a novel potential drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias B Beigl
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Alexander Paul
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas P Fellmeth
- Cluster of Excellence SimTech, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Dang Nguyen
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Biological Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lynn Barber
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sandra Weller
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Bernhard F Gillissen
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumorimmunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Hans-Georg Kopp
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
- Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Markus Rehm
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Research Center Systems Biology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - David W Andrews
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Biological Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Frank Essmann
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Interfaculty Institute for Biochemistry, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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Zhang Z, Hou L, Liu D, Luan S, Huang M, Zhao L. Directly targeting BAX for drug discovery: Therapeutic opportunities and challenges. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:2378-2401. [PMID: 38828138 PMCID: PMC11143528 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
For over two decades, the development of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family therapeutics has primarily focused on anti-apoptotic proteins, resulting in the first-in-class drugs called BH3 mimetics, especially for Bcl-2 inhibitor Venetoclax. The pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) plays a crucial role as the executioner protein of the mitochondrial regulated cell death, contributing to organismal development, tissue homeostasis, and immunity. The dysregulation of BAX is closely associated with the onset and progression of diseases characterized by pathologic cell survival or death, such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and heart failure. In addition to conducting thorough investigations into the physiological modulation of BAX, research on the regulatory mechanisms of small molecules identified through biochemical screening approaches has prompted the identification of functional and potentially druggable binding sites on BAX, as well as diverse all-molecule BAX modulators. This review presents recent advancements in elucidating the physiological and pharmacological modulation of BAX and in identifying potentially druggable binding sites on BAX. Furthermore, it highlights the structural and mechanistic insights into small-molecule modulators targeting diverse binding surfaces or conformations of BAX, offering a promising avenue for developing next-generation apoptosis modulators to treat a wide range of diseases associated with dysregulated cell death by directly targeting BAX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linghui Hou
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Shenglin Luan
- China Resources Sanjiu Medical & Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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Rajalingam A, Sekar K, Ganjiwale A. Identification of Potential Genes and Critical Pathways in Postoperative Recurrence of Crohn's Disease by Machine Learning And WGCNA Network Analysis. Curr Genomics 2023; 24:84-99. [PMID: 37994325 PMCID: PMC10662376 DOI: 10.2174/1389202924666230601122334] [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: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the entire gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. These patients often experience a period of symptomatic relapse and remission. A 20 - 30% symptomatic recurrence rate is reported in the first year after surgery, with a 10% increase each subsequent year. Thus, surgery is done only to relieve symptoms and not for the complete cure of the disease. The determinants and the genetic factors of this disease recurrence are also not well-defined. Therefore, enhanced diagnostic efficiency and prognostic outcome are critical for confronting CD recurrence. Methods We analysed ileal mucosa samples collected from neo-terminal ileum six months after surgery (M6=121 samples) from Crohn's disease dataset (GSE186582). The primary aim of this study is to identify the potential genes and critical pathways in post-operative recurrence of Crohn's disease. We combined the differential gene expression analysis with Recursive feature elimination (RFE), a machine learning approach to get five critical genes for the postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease. The features (genes) selected by different methods were validated using five binary classifiers for recurrence and remission samples: Logistic Regression (LR), Decision tree classifier (DT), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest classifier (RF), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) with 10-fold cross-validation. We also performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to select specific modules and feature genes associated with Crohn's disease postoperative recurrence, smoking, and biological sex. Combined with other biological interpretations, including Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, pathway enrichment, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, our current study sheds light on the in-depth research of CD diagnosis and prognosis in postoperative recurrence. Results PLOD2, ZNF165, BOK, CX3CR1, and ARMCX4, are the important genes identified from the machine learning approach. These genes are reported to be involved in the viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptors, lysine degradation, and apoptosis. They are also linked with various cellular and molecular functions such as Peptidyl-lysine hydroxylation, Central nervous system maturation, G protein-coupled chemoattractant receptor activity, BCL-2 homology (BH) domain binding, Gliogenesis and negative regulation of mitochondrial depolarization. WGCNA identified a gene co-expression module that was primarily involved in mitochondrial translational elongation, mitochondrial translational termination, mitochondrial translation, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex, mRNA splicing via spliceosome pathways, etc.; Both the analysis result emphasizes that the mitochondrial depolarization pathway is linked with CD recurrence leading to oxidative stress in promoting inflammation in CD patients. Conclusion These key genes serve as the novel diagnostic biomarker for the postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease. Thus, among other treatment options present until now, these biomarkers would provide success in both diagnosis and prognosis, aiming for a long-lasting remission to prevent further complications in CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aruna Rajalingam
- Department of Life Sciences, Bangalore University, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560056, India
| | - Kanagaraj Sekar
- Laboratory for Structural Biology and Bio-computing, Computational and Data Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Anjali Ganjiwale
- Department of Life Sciences, Bangalore University, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560056, India
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Toufiq M, Rinchai D, Bettacchioli E, Kabeer BSA, Khan T, Subba B, White O, Yurieva M, George J, Jourde-Chiche N, Chiche L, Palucka K, Chaussabel D. Harnessing large language models (LLMs) for candidate gene prioritization and selection. J Transl Med 2023; 21:728. [PMID: 37845713 PMCID: PMC10580627 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04576-8] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feature selection is a critical step for translating advances afforded by systems-scale molecular profiling into actionable clinical insights. While data-driven methods are commonly utilized for selecting candidate genes, knowledge-driven methods must contend with the challenge of efficiently sifting through extensive volumes of biomedical information. This work aimed to assess the utility of large language models (LLMs) for knowledge-driven gene prioritization and selection. METHODS In this proof of concept, we focused on 11 blood transcriptional modules associated with an Erythroid cells signature. We evaluated four leading LLMs across multiple tasks. Next, we established a workflow leveraging LLMs. The steps consisted of: (1) Selecting one of the 11 modules; (2) Identifying functional convergences among constituent genes using the LLMs; (3) Scoring candidate genes across six criteria capturing the gene's biological and clinical relevance; (4) Prioritizing candidate genes and summarizing justifications; (5) Fact-checking justifications and identifying supporting references; (6) Selecting a top candidate gene based on validated scoring justifications; and (7) Factoring in transcriptome profiling data to finalize the selection of the top candidate gene. RESULTS Of the four LLMs evaluated, OpenAI's GPT-4 and Anthropic's Claude demonstrated the best performance and were chosen for the implementation of the candidate gene prioritization and selection workflow. This workflow was run in parallel for each of the 11 erythroid cell modules by participants in a data mining workshop. Module M9.2 served as an illustrative use case. The 30 candidate genes forming this module were assessed, and the top five scoring genes were identified as BCL2L1, ALAS2, SLC4A1, CA1, and FECH. Researchers carefully fact-checked the summarized scoring justifications, after which the LLMs were prompted to select a top candidate based on this information. GPT-4 initially chose BCL2L1, while Claude selected ALAS2. When transcriptional profiling data from three reference datasets were provided for additional context, GPT-4 revised its initial choice to ALAS2, whereas Claude reaffirmed its original selection for this module. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our findings highlight the ability of LLMs to prioritize candidate genes with minimal human intervention. This suggests the potential of this technology to boost productivity, especially for tasks that require leveraging extensive biomedical knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Toufiq
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | | | - Eleonore Bettacchioli
- INSERM UMR1227, Lymphocytes B et Autoimmunité, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHU de Brest, Brest, France
| | | | - Taushif Khan
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Bishesh Subba
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Olivia White
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Marina Yurieva
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Joshy George
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | | | - Laurent Chiche
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Européen, Marseille, France
| | - Karolina Palucka
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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Czabotar PE, Garcia-Saez AJ. Mechanisms of BCL-2 family proteins in mitochondrial apoptosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:732-748. [PMID: 37438560 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00629-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The proteins of the BCL-2 family are key regulators of mitochondrial apoptosis, acting as either promoters or inhibitors of cell death. The functional interplay and balance between the opposing BCL-2 family members control permeabilization of the outer mitochondrial membrane, leading to the release of activators of the caspase cascade into the cytosol and ultimately resulting in cell death. Despite considerable research, our knowledge about the mechanisms of the BCL-2 family of proteins remains insufficient, which complicates cell fate predictions and does not allow us to fully exploit these proteins as targets for drug discovery. Detailed understanding of the formation and molecular architecture of the apoptotic pore in the outer mitochondrial membrane remains a holy grail in the field, but new studies allow us to begin constructing a structural model of its arrangement. Recent literature has also revealed unexpected activities for several BCL-2 family members that challenge established concepts of how they regulate mitochondrial permeabilization. In this Review, we revisit the most important advances in the field and integrate them into a new structure-function-based classification of the BCL-2 family members that intends to provide a comprehensive model for BCL-2 action in apoptosis. We close this Review by discussing the potential of drugging the BCL-2 family in diseases characterized by aberrant apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter E Czabotar
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Ana J Garcia-Saez
- Membrane Biophysics, Institute of Genetics, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Okura GC, Bharadwaj AG, Waisman DM. Recent Advances in Molecular and Cellular Functions of S100A10. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1450. [PMID: 37892132 PMCID: PMC10604489 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
S100A10 (p11, annexin II light chain, calpactin light chain) is a multifunctional protein with a wide range of physiological activity. S100A10 is unique among the S100 family members of proteins since it does not bind to Ca2+, despite its sequence and structural similarity. This review focuses on studies highlighting the structure, regulation, and binding partners of S100A10. The binding partners of S100A10 were collated and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian C. Okura
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (G.C.O.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Alamelu G. Bharadwaj
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (G.C.O.); (A.G.B.)
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada
| | - David M. Waisman
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (G.C.O.); (A.G.B.)
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada
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Cao Z, Yang X, Li T, Liu Z, Li P, Zhou Y, Sun Y. Molecular characterization and expression analysis of B-cell lymphoma-2 in Trachinotus ovatus and its role in apoptotic process. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1129800. [PMID: 37006242 PMCID: PMC10063160 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1129800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionB-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) is the first identified member of the Bcl-2 family that performs an anti-apoptotic function in mammals. However, its role in teleosts is not fully understood. In this study, Bcl-2 of Trachinotus ovatus (TroBcl2) was cloned, and its role in apoptosis was investigated.MethodsIn this study, Bcl-2 of Trachinotus ovatus (TroBcl2) was cloned by PCR. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to detect its mRNA expression level in healthy condition and after LPS stimulation. Subcellular localization was performed by transfecting the pTroBcl2-N3 plasmid into golden pompano snout (GPS) cells and observed under an inverted fluorescence microscope DMi8 and further verified by immunoblotting. In vivo overexpression and RNAi knockdown method were performed to evaluate the role of TroBcl2 in apoptosis. The anti-apoptotic activity of TroBcl2 was detected by flow cytometry. The effect of TroBcl2 on the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was measured by an enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential assay kit with JC-1. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) method was performed to evaluate the role of TroBcl2 in the DNA fragmentation. Immunoblotting was used to verify whether TroBcl2 inhibits the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria into the cytoplasm. The Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 Activity Assay Kits were used to investigate the effect of TroBcl2 on caspase 3 and caspase 9 activities. The effects of TroBcl2 on the expression of apoptosis-related and nuclear factor- κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway-related genes in vitro were evaluated by qRT-PCR and Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate the activity in NF-κB signaling pathway.Results and discussionThe full-length coding sequence of TroBcl2 contains 687 bp and encodes a protein containing 228 amino acids. Four conserved Bcl-2 homology (BH) domains and one invariant “NWGR” motif located in BH1 were identified in TroBcl2. In healthy T. ovatus, TroBcl2 was widely distributed in the eleven tested tissues, and higher expression levels were found in immune-related tissues, such as spleen and head kidney tissues. After stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the expression of TroBcl2 in the head kidney, spleen, and liver was significantly upregulated. In addition, subcellular localization analysis revealed that TroBcl2 was localized in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. Functional experiments showed that TroBcl2 inhibited apoptosis, possibly by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential loss, decreasing DNA fragmentation, preventing cytochrome c release into cytoplasm, and reducing the caspase 3 and caspase 9 activations. Moreover, upon LPS stimulation, overexpression of TroBcl2 suppressed the activation of several apoptosis-related genes, such as BOK, caspase-9, caspase-7, caspase-3, cytochrome c, and p53. Furthermore, knockdown of TroBcl2 significantly increased the expression of those apoptosis-related genes. In addition, TroBcl2 overexpression or knockdown induced or inhibited, respectively, the transcription of NF-κB and regulated the expression of genes (such as NF-κB1 and c-Rel) in the NF-κB signaling pathway as well as the expression of the downstream inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Overall, our study suggested that TroBcl2 performs its conserved anti-apoptotic function via the mitochondrial pathway and may serve as an anti-apoptotic regulator in T. ovatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Xin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Zhiru Liu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Natural Products and Combinatorial Biosynthesis Chemistry, Guangxi Beibu Gulf Marine Research Center, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Nanning, China
| | - Yongcan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Yun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Marine Science and Technology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Sun,
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Shalaby R, Diwan A, Flores-Romero H, Hertlein V, Garcia-Saez AJ. Visualization of BOK pores independent of BAX and BAK reveals a similar mechanism with differing regulation. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:731-741. [PMID: 36289446 PMCID: PMC9607731 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-022-01078-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BOK is a poorly understood member of the BCL-2 family of proteins that has been proposed to function as a pro-apoptotic, BAX-like effector. However, the molecular mechanism and structural properties of BOK pores remain enigmatic. Here, we show that the thermal stability and pore activity of BOK depends on the presence of its C-terminus as well as on the mitochondrial lipid cardiolipin. We directly visualized BOK pores in liposomes by electron microscopy, which appeared similar to those induced by BAX, in line with comparable oligomerization properties quantified by single molecule imaging. In addition, super-resolution STED imaging revealed that BOK organized into dots and ring-shaped assemblies in apoptotic mitochondria, also reminiscent of those found for BAX and BAK. Yet, unlike BAX and BAK, the apoptotic activity of BOK was limited by partial mitochondrial localization and was independent of and unaffected by other BCL-2 proteins. These results suggest that, while BOK activity is kept in check by subcellular localization instead of interaction with BCL-2 family members, the resulting pores are structurally similar to those of BAX and BAK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raed Shalaby
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Straße 26, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Arzoo Diwan
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Straße 26, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hector Flores-Romero
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Straße 26, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Vanessa Hertlein
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ana J Garcia-Saez
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Straße 26, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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Moldoveanu T. Apoptotic mitochondrial poration by a growing list of pore-forming BCL-2 family proteins. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2200221. [PMID: 36650950 PMCID: PMC9975053 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The pore-forming BCL-2 family proteins are effectors of mitochondrial poration in apoptosis initiation. Two atypical effectors-BOK and truncated BID (tBID)-join the canonical effectors BAK and BAX. Gene knockout revealed developmental phenotypes in the absence the effectors, supporting their roles in vivo. During apoptosis effectors are activated and change shape from dormant monomers to dynamic oligomers that associate with and permeabilize mitochondria. BID is activated by proteolysis, BOK accumulates on inhibition of its degradation by the E3 ligase gp78, while BAK and BAX undergo direct activation by BH3-only initiators, autoactivation, and crossactivation. Except tBID, effector oligomers on the mitochondria appear as arcs and rings in super-resolution microscopy images. The BH3-in-groove dimers of BAK and BAX, the tBID monomers, and uncharacterized BOK species are the putative building blocks of apoptotic pores. Effectors interact with lipids and bilayers but the mechanism of membrane poration remains elusive. I discuss effector-mediated mitochondrial poration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tudor Moldoveanu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences,Correspondence:
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Kaur S, Kurokawa M. Regulation of Oocyte Apoptosis: A View from Gene Knockout Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021345. [PMID: 36674865 PMCID: PMC9861590 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that plays a critical role in cellular homeostasis and development, including in the ovarian reserve. In humans, hundreds of thousands of oocytes are produced in the fetal ovary. However, the majority die by apoptosis before birth. After puberty, primordial follicles develop into mature follicles. While only a large dominant follicle is selected to ovulate, smaller ones undergo apoptosis. Despite numerous studies, the mechanism of oocyte death at the molecular level remains elusive. Over the last two and a half decades, many knockout mouse models disrupting key genes in the apoptosis pathway have been generated. In this review, we highlight some of the phenotypes and discuss distinct and overlapping roles of the apoptosis regulators in oocyte death and survival. We also review how the transcription factor p63 and its family members may trigger oocyte apoptosis in response to DNA damage.
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Huang X, Ji S, Bian C, Sun J, Ji H. The endoplasmic reticulum stress and B cell lymphoma-2 related ovarian killer participate in docosahexaenoic acid-induced adipocyte apoptosis in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus). J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad101. [PMID: 37067261 PMCID: PMC10118398 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) lessens adipose tissue lipid deposition partly by inducing adipocyte apoptosis in grass carp, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) is the novel pathway for inducing apoptosis. This study aimed to explore the potential role of ER stress in DHA-induced apoptosis in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) adipocytes. DHA induced apoptosis by deforming the nuclear envelope, condensing the chromatin, and increasing the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and genes in vivo and in vitro (P < 0.05). However, the ER stress inhibitor, 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), effectively suppressed DHA-induced apoptosis (P < 0.05), indicating that ER stress mediates DHA-induced adipocyte apoptosis. Furthermore, we observed that 200 μM DHA significantly up-regulates the transcripts of B cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) related ovarian killer (BOK) in vitro (P < 0.05). BOK is a pro-apoptotic protein in the BCL-2 family, which governs the mitochondria apoptosis pathway. Hence, we hypothesized that BOK might be an important linker between ER stress and apoptosis. We cloned and identified two grass carp BOK genes, BOKa and BOKb, which encode peptides of 213 and 216 amino acids, respectively. BOKa primarily localizes in ER and mitochondria in the cytoplasm, while BOKb localizes in the nucleus and cytoplasm of grass carp adipocytes. Moreover, 200 μM DHA treatment up-regulated the mRNA expression of BOKa and BOKb, whereas 4-PBA suppressed the DHA-induced expressions. These results raised the possibility that BOK participates in DHA-induced adipocyte apoptosis through ER stress signaling, in line with its localization in ER and mitochondria. Two UPR branches, the inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1α) and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) signaling pathways, are possibly important in DHA-induced adipocyte apoptosis, unlike protein kinase RNA-activated-like ER kinase. The study also emphasized the roles of BOKa and BOKb in IRE1α- and ATF6-mediated apoptosis. This work is the first to elucidate the importance of the ER stress-BOK pathway during adipocyte apoptosis in teleost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocheng Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Shanghong Ji
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Chenchen Bian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jian Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Hong Ji
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
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12
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Cao Y, Wang HB, Ni CJ, Chen SL, Wang WT, Wang LR. Necrostatin-1 prevents skeletal muscle ischemia reperfusion injury by regulating Bok-mediated apoptosis. J Chin Med Assoc 2023; 86:26-33. [PMID: 36599139 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000000806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 1 (RIPK1) mediates apoptosis by regulating the classic proapoptotic effectors Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer (Bak). Although Bcl-2-related ovarian killer (Bok) is structurally similar to Bak and Bax, it is unclear whether it mediates apoptosis in skeletal muscle ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. We hypothesized that by regulating Bok-mediated apoptosis, inhibiting RIPK1 with necrostatin-1 would reduce skeletal muscle IR injury. METHODS Rats were randomized into four groups: sham (SM), IR, IR treated with necrostatin-1 (NI), or vehicle dimethyl sulfoxide (DI). For the IR group, the right femoral artery was clamped for 4 hours and then reperfused for 4 hours, and for the NI and DI groups, necrostatin-1 (1.65 mg/kg) and the equal volume of dimethyl sulfoxide were intraperitoneally administered prior to IR induction. The structural damage of muscle tissue and protein expression of Bok, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3 were investigated, and apoptotic cells were identified with terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining. In vitro, human skeletal muscle cells (HSMCs) were exposed to 6 hours of oxygen-glucose deprivation followed by normoxia for 6 hours to establish an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model. To determine the role of Bok, cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and flow cytometry were examined to demonstrate the effects of necrostatin-1 and Bok knockdown on the OGD/R insult of HSMCs. RESULTS Necrostatin-1 pretreatment markedly reduced IR-induced muscle damage and RIPK1, Bok, and cleaved caspase-3 expression, whereas upregualted Bcl-2 expression (p < 0.05). Furthermore, necrostatin-1 prevented mitochondrial damage and decreased TUNEL-positive muscle cells (p < 0.05). In vitro, HSMCs treated with necrostatin-1 showed reduced Bok expression, increased cell viability, and reduced LDH release in response to OGD/R (p < 0.05), and Bok knockdown significantly blunted the OGD/R insult in HSMCs. CONCLUSION Necrostatin-1 prevents skeletal muscle from IR injury by regulating Bok-mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong-Bo Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chun-Jue Ni
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shun-Li Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wan-Tie Wang
- Institute of Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang-Rong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
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13
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Bonzerato CG, Wojcikiewicz RJH. Bok: real killer or bystander with non-apoptotic roles? Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1161910. [PMID: 37123400 PMCID: PMC10130511 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1161910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Bcl-2-related ovarian killer, Bok, was first labeled "pro-apoptotic" due to its ability to cause cell death when over-expressed. However, it has become apparent that this is not a good name, since Bok is widely expressed in tissues other than ovaries. Further, there is serious doubt as to whether Bok is a real "killer," due to disparities in the ability of over-expressed versus endogenous Bok to trigger apoptosis. In this brief review, we rationalize these disparities and argue that endogenous Bok is very different from the pro-apoptotic, mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization mediators, Bak and Bax. Instead, Bok is a stable, endoplasmic reticulum-located protein bound to inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors. From this location, Bok plays a variety of roles, including regulation of endoplasmic reticulum/mitochondria contact sites and mitochondrial dynamics. Therefore, categorizing Bok as a "killer" may well be misleading and instead, endogenous Bok would better be considered an endoplasmic reticulum-located "bystander", with non-apoptotic roles.
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14
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Bonzerato CG, Keller KR, Schulman JJ, Gao X, Szczesniak LM, Wojcikiewicz RJH. Endogenous Bok is stable at the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and does not mediate proteasome inhibitor-induced apoptosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1094302. [PMID: 36601536 PMCID: PMC9806350 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1094302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Controversy surrounds the cellular role of the Bcl-2 family protein Bok. On one hand, it has been shown that all endogenous Bok is bound to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), while other data suggest that Bok can act as a pro-apoptotic mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization mediator, apparently kept at very low and non-apoptotic levels by efficient proteasome-mediated degradation. Here we show that 1) endogenous Bok is expressed at readily-detectable levels in key cultured cells (e.g., mouse embryonic fibroblasts and HCT116 cells) and is not constitutively degraded by the proteasome, 2) proteasome inhibitor-induced apoptosis is not mediated by Bok, 3) endogenous Bok expression level is critically dependent on the presence of IP3Rs, 4) endogenous Bok is rapidly degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in the absence of IP3Rs at the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, and 5) charged residues in the transmembrane region of Bok affect its stability, ability to interact with Mcl-1, and pro-apoptotic activity when over-expressed. Overall, these data indicate that endogenous Bok levels are not governed by proteasomal activity (except when IP3Rs are deleted) and that while endogenous Bok plays little or no role in apoptotic signaling, exogenous Bok can mediate apoptosis in a manner dependent on its transmembrane domain.
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15
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Qian S, Wei Z, Yang W, Huang J, Yang Y, Wang J. The role of BCL-2 family proteins in regulating apoptosis and cancer therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:985363. [PMID: 36313628 PMCID: PMC9597512 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.985363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis, as a very important biological process, is a response to developmental cues or cellular stress. Impaired apoptosis plays a central role in the development of cancer and also reduces the efficacy of traditional cytotoxic therapies. Members of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) protein family have pro- or anti-apoptotic activities and have been studied intensively over the past decade for their importance in regulating apoptosis, tumorigenesis, and cellular responses to anticancer therapy. Since the inflammatory response induced by apoptosis-induced cell death is very small, at present, the development of anticancer drugs targeting apoptosis has attracted more and more attention. Consequently, the focus of this review is to summarize the current research on the role of BCL-2 family proteins in regulating apoptosis and the development of drugs targeting BCL-2 anti-apoptotic proteins. Additionally, the mechanism of BCL-2 family proteins in regulating apoptosis was also explored. All the findings indicate the potential of BCL-2 family proteins in the therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanna Qian
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zhong Wei
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Wanting Yang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jinling Huang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yinfeng Yang
- School of Medical Informatics Engineering, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jinghui Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
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16
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Sancho M, Leiva D, Lucendo E, Orzáez M. Understanding MCL1: from cellular function and regulation to pharmacological inhibition. FEBS J 2022; 289:6209-6234. [PMID: 34310025 PMCID: PMC9787394 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL1), an antiapoptotic member of the BCL2 family characterized by a short half-life, functions as a rapid sensor that regulates cell death and other relevant processes that include cell cycle progression and mitochondrial homeostasis. In cancer, MCL1 overexpression contributes to cell survival and resistance to diverse chemotherapeutic agents; for this reason, several MCL1 inhibitors are currently under preclinical and clinical development for cancer treatment. However, the nonapoptotic functions of MCL1 may influence their therapeutic potential. Overall, the complexity of MCL1 regulation and function represent challenges to the clinical application of MCL1 inhibitors. We now summarize the current knowledge regarding MCL1 structure, regulation, and function that could impact the clinical success of MCL1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Sancho
- Targeted Therapies on Cancer and Inflammation LaboratoryCentro de Investigación Príncipe FelipeValenciaSpain
| | - Diego Leiva
- Targeted Therapies on Cancer and Inflammation LaboratoryCentro de Investigación Príncipe FelipeValenciaSpain
| | - Estefanía Lucendo
- Targeted Therapies on Cancer and Inflammation LaboratoryCentro de Investigación Príncipe FelipeValenciaSpain
| | - Mar Orzáez
- Targeted Therapies on Cancer and Inflammation LaboratoryCentro de Investigación Príncipe FelipeValenciaSpain
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17
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Medicinal Herbs and Their Derived Ingredients Protect against Cognitive Decline in In Vivo Models of Alzheimer’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911311. [PMID: 36232612 PMCID: PMC9569503 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has pathological hallmarks including amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque formation. Currently approved single-target drugs cannot effectively ameliorate AD. Medicinal herbs and their derived ingredients (MHDIs) have multitarget and multichannel properties, engendering exceptional AD treatment outcomes. This review delineates how in in vivo models MHDIs suppress Aβ deposition by downregulating β- and γ-secretase activities; inhibit oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant activities and reducing lipid peroxidation; prevent tau hyperphosphorylation by upregulating protein phosphatase 2A expression and downregulating glycogen synthase kinase-3β expression; reduce inflammatory mediators partly by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor/extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2-mediated signaling and downregulating p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)-mediated signaling; attenuate synaptic dysfunction by increasing presynaptic protein, postsynaptic protein, and acetylcholine levels and preventing acetylcholinesterase activity; and protect against neuronal apoptosis mainly by upregulating Akt/cyclic AMP response element-binding protein/B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-mediated anti-apoptotic signaling and downregulating p38 MAPK/JNK/Bcl-2-associated x protein (Bax)/caspase-3-, Bax/apoptosis-inducing factor-, C/EBP homologous protein/glucose-regulated protein 78-, and autophagy-mediated apoptotic signaling. Therefore, MHDIs listed in this review protect against Aβ-induced cognitive decline by inhibiting Aβ accumulation, oxidative stress, tau hyperphosphorylation, inflammation, synaptic damage, and neuronal apoptosis in the cortex and hippocampus during the early and late AD phases.
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18
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Walter F, D’Orsi B, Jagannathan A, Dussmann H, Prehn JHM. BOK controls ER proteostasis and physiological ER stress responses in neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:915065. [PMID: 36060797 PMCID: PMC9434404 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.915065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bcl-2 family proteins BAK and BAX control the crucial step of pore formation in the mitochondrial outer membrane during intrinsic apoptosis. Bcl-2-related ovarian killer (BOK) is a Bcl-2 family protein with a high sequence similarity to BAK and BAX. However, intrinsic apoptosis can proceed in the absence of BOK. Unlike BAK and BAX, BOK is primarily located on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi membranes, suggesting a role for BOK in regulating ER homeostasis. In this study, we report that BOK is required for a full ER stress response. Employing previously characterized fluorescent protein-based ER stress reporter cell systems, we show that BOK-deficient cells have an attenuated response to ER stress in all three signaling branches of the unfolded protein response. Fluo-4-based confocal Ca2+ imaging revealed that disruption of ER proteostasis in BOK-deficient cells was not linked to altered ER Ca2+ levels. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) experiments using GRP78/BiP-eGFP demonstrated that GRP78 motility was significantly lower in BOK-deficient cells. This implied that less intraluminal GRP78 was freely available and more of the ER chaperone bound to unfolded proteins. Collectively, these experiments suggest a new role for BOK in the protection of ER proteostasis and cellular responses to ER stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Walter
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- SFI FutureNeuro Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Beatrice D’Orsi
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Neuroscience, Italian National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anagha Jagannathan
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Heiko Dussmann
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jochen H. M. Prehn
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- SFI FutureNeuro Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Jochen H. M. Prehn,
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19
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Sora V, Papaleo E. Structural Details of BH3 Motifs and BH3-Mediated Interactions: an Updated Perspective. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:864874. [PMID: 35685242 PMCID: PMC9171138 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.864874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a mechanism of programmed cell death crucial in organism development, maintenance of tissue homeostasis, and several pathogenic processes. The B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein family lies at the core of the apoptotic process, and the delicate balance between its pro- and anti-apoptotic members ultimately decides the cell fate. BCL2 proteins can bind with each other and several other biological partners through the BCL2 homology domain 3 (BH3), which has been also classified as a possible Short Linear Motif and whose distinctive features remain elusive even after decades of studies. Here, we aim to provide an updated overview of the structural features characterizing BH3s and BH3-mediated interactions (with a focus on human proteins), elaborating on the plasticity of BCL2 proteins and the motif properties. We also discussed the implication of these findings for the discovery of interactors of the BH3-binding groove of BCL2 proteins and the design of mimetics for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Sora
- Cancer Structural Biology, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cancer Systems Biology, Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health and Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Elena Papaleo
- Cancer Structural Biology, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cancer Systems Biology, Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health and Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Elena Papaleo, ,
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20
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Romero-Morales AI, Gama V. Revealing the Impact of Mitochondrial Fitness During Early Neural Development Using Human Brain Organoids. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:840265. [PMID: 35571368 PMCID: PMC9102998 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.840265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial homeostasis -including function, morphology, and inter-organelle communication- provides guidance to the intrinsic developmental programs of corticogenesis, while also being responsive to environmental and intercellular signals. Two- and three-dimensional platforms have become useful tools to interrogate the capacity of cells to generate neuronal and glia progeny in a background of metabolic dysregulation, but the mechanistic underpinnings underlying the role of mitochondria during human neurogenesis remain unexplored. Here we provide a concise overview of cortical development and the use of pluripotent stem cell models that have contributed to our understanding of mitochondrial and metabolic regulation of early human brain development. We finally discuss the effects of mitochondrial fitness dysregulation seen under stress conditions such as metabolic dysregulation, absence of developmental apoptosis, and hypoxia; and the avenues of research that can be explored with the use of brain organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivian Gama
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Stem Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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21
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Niu Z, Wang X, Xu Y, Li Y, Gong X, Zeng Q, Zhang B, Xi J, Pei X, Yue W, Han Y. Development and Validation of a Novel Survival Model for Cutaneous Melanoma Based on Necroptosis-Related Genes. Front Oncol 2022; 12:852803. [PMID: 35387121 PMCID: PMC8979066 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.852803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Necroptosis is crucial for organismal development and pathogenesis. To date, the role of necroptosis in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is yet unveiled. In addition, the part of melanin pigmentation was largely neglected in the bioinformatic analysis. In this study, we aimed to construct a novel prognostic model based on necroptosis-related genes and analysis the pigmentation phenotype of patients to provide clinically actionable information for SKCM patients. Methods We downloaded the SKCM data from the TCGA and GEO databases in this study and identified the differently expressed and prognostic necroptosis-related genes. Patients’ pigmentation phenotype was evaluated by the GSVA method. Then, using Lasso and Cox regression analysis, a novel prognostic model was constructed based on the intersected genes. The risk score was calculated and the patients were divided into two groups. The survival differences between the two groups were compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis. The ROC analysis was performed and the area under curves was calculated to evaluate the prediction performances of the model. Then, the GO, KEGG and GSEA analyses were performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Differences in the tumor microenvironment, patients’ response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and pigmentation phenotype were analyzed. In order to validate the mRNA expression levels of the selected genes, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed. Results Altogether, a novel prognostic model based on four genes (BOK, CD14, CYLD and FASLG) was constructed, and patients were classified into high and low-risk groups based on the median risk score. Low-risk group patients showed better survival status. The model showed high accuracy in the training and the validation cohort. Pathway and functional enrichment analysis indicated that immune-related pathways were differently activated in the two groups. In addition, immune cells infiltration patterns and sensitivity of ICIs showed a significant difference between patients from two risk groups. The pigmentation score was positively related to the risk score in pigmentation phenotype analysis. Conclusion In conclusion, this study established a novel prognostic model based on necroptosis-related genes and revealed the possible connections between necroptosis and melanin pigmentation. It is expected to provide a reference for clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehao Niu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yujian Xu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Gong
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Quan Zeng
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, AMMS, Beijing, China.,South China Research Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, SCIB, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, AMMS, Beijing, China.,South China Research Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, SCIB, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiafei Xi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, AMMS, Beijing, China.,South China Research Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, SCIB, Guangzhou, China.,Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS), Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuetao Pei
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, AMMS, Beijing, China.,South China Research Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, SCIB, Guangzhou, China.,Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS), Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Yue
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, AMMS, Beijing, China.,South China Research Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, SCIB, Guangzhou, China.,Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS), Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Han
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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22
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MacDonald MA, Barry C, Groves T, Martínez VS, Gray PP, Baker K, Shave E, Mahler S, Munro T, Marcellin E, Nielsen LK. Modelling Apoptosis Resistance in CHO cells with CRISPR-Mediated Knock-outs of Bak1, Bax, and Bok. Biotechnol Bioeng 2022; 119:1380-1391. [PMID: 35180317 PMCID: PMC9310834 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are the primary platform for the production of biopharmaceuticals. To increase yields, many CHO cell lines have been genetically engineered to resist cell death. However, the kinetics that governs cell fate in bioreactors are confounded by many variables associated with batch processes. Here, we used CRISPR‐Cas9 to create combinatorial knockouts of the three known BCL‐2 family effector proteins: Bak1, Bax, and Bok. To assess the response to apoptotic stimuli, cell lines were cultured in the presence of four cytotoxic compounds with different mechanisms of action. A population‐based model was developed to describe the behavior of the resulting viable cell dynamics as a function of genotype and treatment. Our results validated the synergistic antiapoptotic nature of Bak1 and Bax, while the deletion of Bok had no significant impact. Importantly, the uniform application of apoptotic stresses permitted direct observation and quantification of a delay in the onset of cell death through Bayesian inference of meaningful model parameters. In addition to the classical death rate, a delay function was found to be essential in the accurate modeling of the cell death response. These findings represent an important bridge between cell line engineering strategies and biological modeling in a bioprocess context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A MacDonald
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Craig Barry
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Teddy Groves
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Verónica S Martínez
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Peter P Gray
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kym Baker
- Patheon by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Evan Shave
- Patheon by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Stephen Mahler
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Trent Munro
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Esteban Marcellin
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lars K Nielsen
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, Denmark
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23
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Meinhardt AL, Munkhbaatar E, Höckendorf U, Dietzen M, Dechant M, Anton M, Jacob A, Steiger K, Weichert W, Brcic L, McGranahan N, Branca C, Kaufmann T, Dengler MA, Jost PJ. The BCL-2 family member BOK promotes KRAS-driven lung cancer progression in a p53-dependent manner. Oncogene 2022; 41:1376-1382. [PMID: 35091677 PMCID: PMC8881215 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02161-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A variety of cancer entities are driven by KRAS mutations, which remain difficult to target clinically. Survival pathways, such as resistance to cell death, may represent a promising treatment approach in KRAS mutated cancers. Based on the frequently observed genomic deletions of BCL-2-related ovarian killer (BOK) in cancer patients, we explored the function of BOK in a mutant KrasG12D-driven murine model of lung cancer. Using KrasG12D/+ Bok-/- mice, we observed an overall tumor-promoting function of BOK in vivo. Specifically, loss of BOK reduced proliferation both in cell lines in vitro as well as in KrasG12D-driven tumor lesions in vivo. During tumor development in vivo, loss of BOK resulted in a lower tumor burden, with fewer, smaller, and less advanced tumors. Using KrasG12D/+ Tp53Δ/Δ Bok-/- mice, we identified that this phenotype was entirely dependent on the presence of functional p53. Furthermore, analysis of a human dataset of untreated early-stage lung tumors did not identify any common deletion of the BOK locus, independently of the TP53 status or the histopathological classification. Taken together our data indicate that BOK supports tumor progression in Kras-driven lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Meinhardt
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Enkhtsetseg Munkhbaatar
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrike Höckendorf
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michelle Dietzen
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Center of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, London, UK
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, University College London Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Marta Dechant
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martina Anton
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Jacob
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Luka Brcic
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Diagnostic and Research Center for Molecular BioMedicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Nicholas McGranahan
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Center of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, London, UK
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, University College London Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Caterina Branca
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kaufmann
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael A Dengler
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Philipp J Jost
- Department of Medicine III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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24
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MacDonald MA, Nöbel M, Martínez VS, Baker K, Shave E, Gray PP, Mahler S, Munro T, Nielsen LK, Marcellin E. Engineering death resistance in CHO cells for improved perfusion culture. MAbs 2022; 14:2083465. [PMID: 35737825 PMCID: PMC9235890 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2022.2083465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The reliable and cost-efficient manufacturing of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is essential to fulfil their ever-growing demand. Cell death in bioreactors reduces productivity and product quality, and is largely attributed to apoptosis. In perfusion bioreactors, this leads to the necessity of a bleed stream, which negatively affects the overall process economy. To combat this limitation, death-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cell lines were developed by simultaneously knocking out the apoptosis effector proteins Bak1, Bax, and Bok with CRISPR technology. These cell lines were cultured in fed-batch and perfusion bioreactors and compared to an unmodified control cell line. In fed-batch, the death-resistant cell lines showed higher cell densities and longer culture durations, lasting nearly a month under standard culture conditions. In perfusion, the death-resistant cell lines showed slower drops in viability and displayed an arrest in cell division after which cell size increased instead. Pertinently, the death-resistant cell lines demonstrated the ability to be cultured for several weeks without bleed, and achieved similar volumetric productivities at lower cell densities than that of the control cell line. Perfusion culture reduced fragmentation of the mAb produced, and the death-resistant cell lines showed increased glycosylation in the light chain in both bioreactor modes. These data demonstrate that rationally engineered death-resistant cell lines are ideal for mAb production in perfusion culture, negating the need to bleed the bioreactor whilst maintaining product quantity and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A MacDonald
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.,Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Matthias Nöbel
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.,Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Verónica S Martínez
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Kym Baker
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Evan Shave
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter P Gray
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Stephen Mahler
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Trent Munro
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.,National Biologics Facility, The University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lars K Nielsen
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.,Queensaldn Metabolomics and Proteomics, The University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Esteban Marcellin
- ARC Training Centre for Biopharmaceutical Innovation, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia.,Queensaldn Metabolomics and Proteomics, The University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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25
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Song Y, Qin G, Du L, Hu H, Han Y. In vitro and in vivo assessment of biocompatibility of AZ31 alloy as biliary stents: a preclinical approach. Arch Med Sci 2022; 18:195-205. [PMID: 35154540 PMCID: PMC8826861 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2020.92675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Biomaterial technology due to its lack of or minimal side effects in tissues has great potential. Traditionally biomaterials used were cobalt-chromium, stainless steel and nitinol alloys. Biomaterials such as magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) have good biocompatibility and consequently can be a potential material for medical implants. To date, the effects of AZ31 alloy stent on cell apoptosis are still unclear. The current investigation was designed to determine the effect of AZ31 alloy stent on necrosis and apoptosis of common bile duct (CBD) epithelial cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS We experimented with application of different concentrations of AZ31 alloy stent to primary mouse extrahepatic bile epithelial cells (MEBECs) and estimated the effect on apoptosis and necrotic cells. Apoptosis and pro-apoptosis expression were estimated through real-time PCR. For in vivo protocol, we used rabbits, implanted the AZ31 bile stent, and estimated its effect on the CBD. AZ31 (40%) concentration showed an effect on the apoptotic and necrotic cells. RESULTS Real-time PCR revealed that AZ31 (40%) concentration increased the apoptotic genes such as NF-κB, caspase-3, Bax and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio as compared to the control group. In the in vivo experiment, AZ31 alloy stents were implanted into the CBD and showed an effect on the alteration the hematological, hepatic and non-hepatic parameters. CONCLUSIONS To conclude, it can be stated that AZ31 induces apoptosis via alteration in genes including nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), caspase-3, Bax and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and improved the hematological, hepatic and non-hepatic parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gaoping Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lixue Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haitian Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yong Han
- Material Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Beilin District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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26
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Alanazi MM, Eissa IH, Alsaif NA, Obaidullah AJ, Alanazi WA, Alasmari AF, Albassam H, Elkady H, Elwan A. Design, synthesis, docking, ADMET studies, and anticancer evaluation of new 3-methylquinoxaline derivatives as VEGFR-2 inhibitors and apoptosis inducers. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:1760-1782. [PMID: 34340610 PMCID: PMC8344243 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1956488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) plays a critical role in cancer angiogenesis. Inhibition of VEGFR-2 activity proved effective suppression of tumour propagation. Accordingly, two series of new 3-methylquinoxaline derivatives have been designed and synthesised as VEGFR-2 inhibitors. The synthesised derivatives were evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxic activities against MCF-7and HepG2 cell lines. In addition, the VEGFR-2 inhibitory activities of the target compounds were estimated to indicate the potential mechanism of their cytotoxicity. To a great extent, the results of VEGFR-2 inhibition were highly correlated with that of cytotoxicity. Compound 27a was the most potent VEGFR-2 inhibitor with IC50 of 3.2 nM very close to positive control sorafenib (IC50 = 3.12 nM). Such compound exhibited a strong cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 and HepG2, respectively with IC50 of 7.7 and 4.5 µM in comparison to sorafenib (IC50 = 3.51 and 2.17 µM). In addition, compounds 28, 30f, 30i, and 31b exhibited excellent VEGFR-2 inhibition activities (IC50 range from 4.2 to 6.1 nM) with promising cytotoxic activity. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis induction were investigated for the most active member 27a. Also, the effect of 27a on the level of caspase-3, caspase-9, and BAX/Bcl-2 ratio was determined. Molecular docking studies were implemented to interpret the binding mode of the target compounds with the VEGFR-2 pocket. Furthermore, toxicity and ADMET calculations were performed for the synthesised compounds to study their pharmacokinetic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed M. Alanazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim H. Eissa
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nawaf A. Alsaif
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad J. Obaidullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael A. Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah F. Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussam Albassam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazem Elkady
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alaa Elwan
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Design Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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27
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Attard CRM, Sandoval-Castillo J, Brauer CJ, Unmack PJ, Schmarr D, Bernatchez L, Beheregaray LB. Fish out of water: Genomic insights into persistence of rainbowfish populations in the desert. Evolution 2021; 76:171-183. [PMID: 34778944 DOI: 10.1111/evo.14399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
How populations of aquatic fauna persist in extreme desert environments is an enigma. Individuals often breed and disperse during favorable conditions. Theory predicts that adaptive capacity should be low in small populations, such as in desert fishes. We integrated satellite-derived surface water data and population genomic diversity from 20,294 single-nucleotide polymorphisms across 344 individuals to understand metapopulation persistence of the desert rainbowfish (Melanotaenia splendida tatei) in central Australia. Desert rainbowfish showed very small effective population sizes, especially at peripheral populations, and low connectivity between river catchments. Yet, there was no evidence of population-level inbreeding and a signal of possible adaptive divergence associated with aridity was detected. Candidate genes for local adaptation included functions related to environmental cues and stressful conditions. Eco-evolutionary modeling showed that positive selection in refugial subpopulations combined with connectivity during flood periods can enable retention of adaptive diversity. Our study suggests that adaptive variation can be maintained in small populations and integrate with neutral metapopulation processes to allow persistence in the desert.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R M Attard
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
| | - Jonathan Sandoval-Castillo
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
| | - Chris J Brauer
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
| | - Peter J Unmack
- Centre for Applied Water Science, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - David Schmarr
- Inland Waters and Catchment Ecology Program, SARDI Aquatic Sciences, Henley Beach, SA, 5022, Australia
| | - Louis Bernatchez
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes, Université Laval Québec, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Luciano B Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
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28
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Lee EF, Fairlie WD. Discovery, development and application of drugs targeting BCL-2 pro-survival proteins in cancer. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2381-2395. [PMID: 34515749 PMCID: PMC8589430 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of a new class of small molecule compounds that target the BCL-2 family of anti-apoptotic proteins is one of the great success stories of basic science leading to translational outcomes in the last 30 years. The eponymous BCL-2 protein was identified over 30 years ago due to its association with cancer. However, it was the unveiling of the biochemistry and structural biology behind it and its close relatives' mechanism(s)-of-action that provided the inspiration for what are now known as 'BH3-mimetics', the first clinically approved drugs designed to specifically inhibit protein-protein interactions. Herein, we chart the history of how these drugs were discovered, their evolution and application in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erinna F. Lee
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - W. Douglas Fairlie
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
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29
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Szczesniak LM, Bonzerato CG, Wojcikiewicz RJH. Identification of the Bok Interactome Using Proximity Labeling. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689951. [PMID: 34136494 PMCID: PMC8201613 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of the Bcl-2 family member Bok is currently enigmatic, with various disparate roles reported, including mediation of apoptosis, regulation of mitochondrial morphology, binding to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors, and regulation of uridine metabolism. To better define the roles of Bok, we examined its interactome using TurboID-mediated proximity labeling in HeLa cells, in which Bok knock-out leads to mitochondrial fragmentation and Bok overexpression leads to apoptosis. Labeling with TurboID-Bok revealed that Bok was proximal to a wide array of proteins, particularly those involved in mitochondrial fission (e.g., Drp1), endoplasmic reticulum-plasma membrane junctions (e.g., Stim1), and surprisingly among the Bcl-2 family members, just Mcl-1. Comparison with TurboID-Mcl-1 and TurboID-Bak revealed that the three Bcl-2 family member interactomes were largely independent, but with some overlap that likely identifies key interactors. Interestingly, when overexpressed, Mcl-1 and Bok interact physically and functionally, in a manner that depends upon the transmembrane domain of Bok. Overall, this work shows that the Bok interactome is different from those of Mcl-1 and Bak, identifies novel proximities and potential interaction points for Bcl-2 family members, and suggests that Bok may regulate mitochondrial fission via Mcl-1 and Drp1.
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30
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Li K, van Delft MF, Dewson G. Too much death can kill you: inhibiting intrinsic apoptosis to treat disease. EMBO J 2021; 40:e107341. [PMID: 34037273 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020107341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptotic cell death is implicated in both physiological and pathological processes. Since many types of cancerous cells intrinsically evade apoptotic elimination, induction of apoptosis has become an attractive and often necessary cancer therapeutic approach. Conversely, some cells are extremely sensitive to apoptotic stimuli leading to neurodegenerative disease and immune pathologies. However, due to several challenges, pharmacological inhibition of apoptosis is still only a recently emerging strategy to combat pathological cell loss. Here, we describe several key steps in the intrinsic (mitochondrial) apoptosis pathway that represent potential targets for inhibitors in disease contexts. We also discuss the mechanisms of action, advantages and limitations of small-molecule and peptide-based inhibitors that have been developed to date. These inhibitors serve as important research tools to dissect apoptotic signalling and may foster new treatments to reduce unwanted cell loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiming Li
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark F van Delft
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Grant Dewson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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31
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Pogmore JP, Uehling D, Andrews DW. Pharmacological Targeting of Executioner Proteins: Controlling Life and Death. J Med Chem 2021; 64:5276-5290. [PMID: 33939407 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule mediated modulation of protein interactions of Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) family proteins was clinically validated in 2015 when Venetoclax, a selective inhibitor of the antiapoptotic protein BCL-2, achieved breakthrough status designation by the FDA for treatment of lymphoid malignancies. Since then, substantial progress has been made in identifying inhibitors of other interactions of antiapoptosis proteins. However, targeting their pro-apoptotic counterparts, the "executioners" BAX, BAK, and BOK that both initiate and commit the cell to dying, has lagged behind. However, recent publications demonstrate that these proteins can be positively or negatively regulated using small molecule tool compounds. The results obtained with these molecules suggest that pharmaceutical regulation of apoptosis will have broad implications that extend beyond activating cell death in cancer. We review recent advances in identifying compounds and their utility in the exogenous control of life and death by regulating executioner proteins, with emphasis on the prototype BAX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin P Pogmore
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1J7, Canada.,Biological Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - David Uehling
- Drug Discovery Program, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - David W Andrews
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1J7, Canada.,Biological Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
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32
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Dong X, Liu Q, Zhao W, Ou J, Jiang F, Guo H, Lv L. Effects of ammonia-N stress on the antioxidant enzymes, heat shock proteins, and apoptosis-related genes of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2021.1886612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xuexing Dong
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qigen Liu
- College of Fisheries and Life Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihong Zhao
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiangtao Ou
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - FengJuan Jiang
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haisong Guo
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Linlan Lv
- Department of Ocean Technology, Key Laboratory for Aquaculture and Ecology of Coastal Pool of Jiangsu Province, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China
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33
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The Mysteries around the BCL-2 Family Member BOK. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121638. [PMID: 33291826 PMCID: PMC7762061 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BOK is an evolutionarily conserved BCL-2 family member that resembles the apoptotic effectors BAK and BAX in sequence and structure. Based on these similarities, BOK has traditionally been classified as a BAX-like pro-apoptotic protein. However, the mechanism of action and cellular functions of BOK remains controversial. While some studies propose that BOK could replace BAK and BAX to elicit apoptosis, others attribute to this protein an indirect way of apoptosis regulation. Adding to the debate, BOK has been associated with a plethora of non-apoptotic functions that makes this protein unpredictable when dictating cell fate. Here, we compile the current knowledge and open questions about this paradoxical protein with a special focus on its structural features as the key aspect to understand BOK biological functions.
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34
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Mcl-1 and Bok transmembrane domains: Unexpected players in the modulation of apoptosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:27980-27988. [PMID: 33093207 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2008885117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bcl-2 protein family comprises both pro- and antiapoptotic members that control the permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane, a crucial step in the modulation of apoptosis. Recent research has demonstrated that the carboxyl-terminal transmembrane domain (TMD) of some Bcl-2 protein family members can modulate apoptosis; however, the transmembrane interactome of the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1 remains largely unexplored. Here, we demonstrate that the Mcl-1 TMD forms homooligomers in the mitochondrial membrane, competes with full-length Mcl-1 protein with regards to its antiapoptotic function, and induces cell death in a Bok-dependent manner. While the Bok TMD oligomers locate preferentially to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), heterooligomerization between the TMDs of Mcl-1 and Bok predominantly takes place at the mitochondrial membrane. Strikingly, the coexpression of Mcl-1 and Bok TMDs produces an increase in ER mitochondrial-associated membranes, suggesting an active role of Mcl-1 in the induced mitochondrial targeting of Bok. Finally, the introduction of Mcl-1 TMD somatic mutations detected in cancer patients alters the TMD interaction pattern to provide the Mcl-1 protein with enhanced antiapoptotic activity, thereby highlighting the clinical relevance of Mcl-1 TMD interactions.
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Joshi P, Bodnya C, Rasmussen ML, Romero-Morales AI, Bright A, Gama V. Modeling the function of BAX and BAK in early human brain development using iPSC-derived systems. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:808. [PMID: 32978370 PMCID: PMC7519160 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03002-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsic apoptosis relies on the ability of the BCL-2 family to induce the formation of pores on the outer mitochondrial membrane. Previous studies have shown that both BAX and BAK are essential during murine embryogenesis, and reports in human cancer cell lines identified non-canonical roles for BAX and BAK in mitochondrial fission during apoptosis. BAX and BAK function in human brain development remains elusive due to the lack of appropriate model systems. Here, we generated BAX/BAK double knockout human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), neural rosettes, and cerebral organoids to uncover the effects of BAX and BAK deletion in an in vitro model of early human brain development. We found that BAX and BAK-deficient cells have abnormal mitochondrial morphology and give rise to aberrant cortical structures. We suggest crucial functions for BAX and BAK during human development, including maintenance of homeostatic mitochondrial morphology, which is crucial for proper development of progenitors and neurons of the cortex. Human pluripotent stem cell-derived systems can be useful platforms to reveal novel functions of the apoptotic machinery in neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Joshi
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Caroline Bodnya
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Megan L Rasmussen
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Anna Bright
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Vivian Gama
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt Center for Stem Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Naim S, Kaufmann T. The Multifaceted Roles of the BCL-2 Family Member BOK. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:574338. [PMID: 33043006 PMCID: PMC7523462 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.574338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BCL-2-related ovarian killer (BOK) is-despite its identification over 20 years ago-an incompletely understood member of the BCL-2 family. BCL-2 family proteins are best known for their critical role in the regulation of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization during the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Based on sequence and structural similarities to BAX and BAK, BOK is grouped with these "killers" within the effector subgroup of the family. However, the mechanism of how exactly BOK exerts apoptosis is not clear and controversially discussed. Furthermore, and in accordance with reports on several other BCL-2 family members, BOK seems to be involved in the regulation of a variety of other, "apoptosis-independent" cellular functions, including the unfolded protein response, cellular proliferation, metabolism, and autophagy. Of note, compared with other proapoptotic BCL-2 family members, BOK levels are often reduced in cancer by various means, and there is increasing evidence for BOK modulating tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize and discuss apoptotic- and non-apoptotic-related functions of BOK, its regulation as well as its physiological and pathophysiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samara Naim
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Kaufmann
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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The BCL-2 selective inhibitor ABT-199 sensitizes soft tissue sarcomas to proteasome inhibition by a concerted mechanism requiring BAX and NOXA. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:701. [PMID: 32839432 PMCID: PMC7445285 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02910-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies predominantly affecting children and young adults. Despite improvements in multimodal therapies, 5-year survival rates are only 50% and new treatment options in STS are urgently needed. To develop a rational combination therapy for the treatment of STS we focused on ABT-199 (Venetoclax), a BCL-2 specific BH3-mimetic, in combination with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BZB). Simultaneous inhibition of BCL-2 and the proteasome resulted in strongly synergistic apoptosis induction. Mechanistically, ABT-199 mainly affected the multidomain effector BAX by liberating it from BCL-2 inhibition. The combination with BZB additionally resulted in the accumulation of BOK, a BAX/BAK homologue, and of the BH3-only protein NOXA, which inhibits the anti-apoptotic protein MCL-1. Thus, the combination of ABT-199 and BZB sensitizes STS cells to apoptosis by simultaneously releasing several defined apoptotic restraints. This synergistic mechanism of action was verified by CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out, showing that both BAX and NOXA are crucial for ABT-199/BZB-induced apoptosis. Noteworthy, efficient induction of apoptosis by ABT-199/BZB was not affected by the p53 status and invariably detected in cell lines and patient-derived tumor cells of several sarcoma types, including rhabdomyo-, leiomyo-, lipo-, chondro-, osteo-, or synovial sarcomas. Hence, we propose the combination of ABT-199 and BZB as a promising strategy for the treatment of STS, which should warrant further clinical investigation.
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Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is essential for tissue homeostasis. De-regulation of the balance between proliferation and apoptosis contributes to tumor initiation. Particularly in the colon where apoptosis is a crucial process in intestinal turnover, inhibition of apoptosis facilitates transformation and tumor progression. The BCL-2 family of proteins are key regulators of apoptosis and have been implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation, progression and resistance to therapy. In this review we outline the current knowledge on the BCL-2 family-regulated intrinsic apoptosis pathway and mechanisms by which it is de-regulated in CRC. We further review BH3 mimetics as a therapeutic opportunity to target this pathway and evaluate their potential for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanthi Ramesh
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Paul Medema
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Dokanehiifard S, Soltani BM, Ghiasi P, Baharvand H, Reza Ganjali M, Hosseinkhani S. hsa-miR-766-5p as a new regulator of mitochondrial apoptosis pathway for discriminating of cell death from cardiac differentiation. Gene 2020; 736:144448. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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40
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Reconstituting the Mammalian Apoptotic Switch in Yeast. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11020145. [PMID: 32013249 PMCID: PMC7073680 DOI: 10.3390/genes11020145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteins of the Bcl-2 family regulate the permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane that represents a crucial irreversible step in the process of induction of apoptosis in mammalian cells. The family consists of both proapoptotic proteins that facilitate the membrane permeabilization and antiapoptotic proteins that prevent it in the absence of an apoptotic signal. The molecular mechanisms, by which these proteins interact with each other and with the mitochondrial membranes, however, remain under dispute. Although yeast do not have apparent homologues of these apoptotic regulators, yeast cells expressing mammalian members of the Bcl-2 family have proved to be a valuable model system, in which action of these proteins can be effectively studied. This review focuses on modeling the activity of proapoptotic as well as antiapoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family in yeast.
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Glab JA, Cao Z, Puthalakath H. Bcl-2 family proteins, beyond the veil. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 351:1-22. [PMID: 32247577 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is an important part of both health and disease and is often regulated by the BCL-2 family of proteins. These proteins are either pro- or anti-apoptotic, existing in a delicate balance during homeostasis. They are best known for their role in regulating the activation of caspases and the execution of a cell in response to a variety of stimuli. However, it is often forgotten that these BCL-2 family proteins also have important roles to play in cell maintenance that are not associated with apoptosis. These include roles in regulating processes such as cell cycle progression, mitochondrial function, autophagy, intracellular calcium concentration, glucose and lipid metabolism, and the unfolded protein response. In addition to these established alternate functions, further discoveries are being made that have potential therapeutic benefits in diseases such as cancer. BOK, a BCL-2 family protein thought comparable to multidomain pro-apoptotic proteins BAX and BAK, has recently been identified as a key player in metabolism of and resistance to the commonly used chemotherapeutic 5-FU. As a result of such findings, which could see the potential use of BOK as a biomarker for 5-FU sensitivity or mimetic molecules as a resensitization strategy, new targets and mechanisms of pathology may arise from further investigation into the realm of alternate functions of BCL-2 family proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Andrew Glab
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Zhipeng Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Hamsa Puthalakath
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.
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The Bcl-2 Family: Ancient Origins, Conserved Structures, and Divergent Mechanisms. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010128. [PMID: 31940915 PMCID: PMC7022251 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic apoptosis, the response to intracellular cell death stimuli, is regulated by the interplay of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family and their membrane interactions. Bcl-2 proteins mediate a number of processes including development, homeostasis, autophagy, and innate and adaptive immune responses and their dysregulation underpins a host of diseases including cancer. The Bcl-2 family is characterized by the presence of conserved sequence motifs called Bcl-2 homology motifs, as well as a transmembrane region, which form the interaction sites and intracellular location mechanism, respectively. Bcl-2 proteins have been recognized in the earliest metazoans including Porifera (sponges), Placozoans, and Cnidarians (e.g., Hydra). A number of viruses have gained Bcl-2 homologs and subvert innate immunity and cellular apoptosis for their replication, but they frequently have very different sequences to their host Bcl-2 analogs. Though most mechanisms of apoptosis initiation converge on activation of caspases that destroy the cell from within, the numerous gene insertions, deletions, and duplications during evolution have led to a divergence in mechanisms of intrinsic apoptosis. Currently, the action of the Bcl-2 family is best understood in vertebrates and nematodes but new insights are emerging from evolutionarily earlier organisms. This review focuses on the mechanisms underpinning the activity of Bcl-2 proteins including their structures and interactions, and how they have changed over the course of evolution.
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Huang Y, Li D, Zhang PF, Liu M, Liang X, Yang X, Jiang L, Zhang LF, Zhou WL, Su JH, Gong YL, Gou HF, Wei YQ, Wang W. IL-18R-dependent and independent pathways account for IL-18-enhanced antitumor ability of CAR-T cells. FASEB J 2019; 34:1768-1782. [PMID: 31914650 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901809r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) has been demonstrated to augment the antitumor capacity of chimeric antigen receptor-T cells (CAR-T) but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Here we explored the effects and mechanisms of exogenous IL-18 on the antitumor response of CAR-T cells. IL-18 boosted the cytotoxicity of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-specific CAR-T cells ex vivo and enhanced the antitumor efficacy of the CAR-T cells in immunodeficient mice, moreover, IL-18 improved the antitumor capacity of OVA-specific T cells in immunocompetent mice, indicating the universal enhancing function of IL-18 for adoptive cell therapy. To address the roles of IL-18 receptor (IL-18R) in the enhancing function, we evaluated the effects of IL-18R knockout (IL-18R-/-) condition in immunocompetent host and CAR-T cells on the IL-18-enhanced antitumor activities. Interestingly, IL-18 persisted to improve the antitumor ability of IL-18R intact CAR-T cells in IL-18R-/- mice. For IL-18R-/- CAR-T cells, however, IL-18 still holds the enhancing ability to boost the antitumor efficacy in IL-18R-/- mice, albeit the ex vivo tumor-killing ability was lower than that of IL-18R intact CAR-T cells, indicating that IL-18R-independent pathway is involved in the enhancement. Furthermore, tagged IL-18 binded to the membrane of IL-18R-/- splenic and lymph node cells and IL-18R intact and IL-18R-/- CAR-T cells showed distinct transcriptomic profiles when stimulated by IL-18. These data demonstrate that IL-18R-independent pathways contribute to functions of IL-18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng-Fei Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Feng Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.,Department of Neurosugery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei-Lin Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin-Hua Su
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - You-Ling Gong
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong-Feng Gou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu-Quan Wei
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.,Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
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B-cell lymphoma 2 ovarian killer suppresses testicular cancer cell malignant behavior, but plays a role in platinum resistance. Anticancer Drugs 2019; 29:839-846. [PMID: 29985192 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in men. Although the 5-year survival rate of TC patients exceeds 95%, the prognosis of patients with platinum-resistant tumors remains poor because of limited therapeutic options. Overcoming chemoresistance is the key to improving survival in poor-prognosis patients. However, the mechanism remains poorly understood. B-cell lymphoma 2 ovarian killer (BOK) is a proapoptotic protein and functions as a tumor suppressor in malignancy tumors. In this study, we found that BOK was frequently downregulated in TC tissues compared with paratumor tissues. BOK overexpression inhibited TC cell proliferation and invasion. In contrast, BOK knockdown promoted TC cell proliferation and invasion. Surprisingly, either BOK overexpression or knockdown rendered TC cells resistant to Cisplatin (DDP). In conclusion, BOK downregulation may be associated with tumorigenesis of TC. BOK had the potency to suppress TC cell proliferation and invasion, and may function as a tumor suppressor in TC. However, BOK also contributes to Cisplatin resistance. These data may provide a wider perspective on TC research and treatment.
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健愉 冯, 玉山 朱, 陈 权, 凌 林, Jianyu F, Yushan Z, Quan C, Jialing L. [Physiological Function and Structural Basis of Bcl-2 Family Proteins]. ZHONGGUO XI BAO SHENG WU XUE XUE BAO 2019; 41:1477-1489. [PMID: 34249113 PMCID: PMC8265309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis is an important biological process that plays a key role in the regulation of cell fate and homeostasis. The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family proteins are important regulators of the apoptotic pathway, and their dysfunction is associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. In the past decade, a large number of research work on the physiological functions and atomic structures of Bcl-2 family proteins have been reported, which has deepened our understanding of the molecular mechanism and pathological significance of Bcl-2 family proteins. Recently, new drugs targeting different Bcl-2 proteins have been developed and used in clinics or tested in clinical trials. However, the complexity and diversity in functions and structures of Bcl-2 family have left many unsolved problems. This article summarizes current knowledge of the structure and function of Bcl-2 family proteins and discusses the pharmacological significance of Bcl-2 proteins as effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - 林家 凌
- 俄克拉荷马大学健康科学中心生物化学与分子生物学系, 俄克拉何马城 73126-0901
| | - Feng Jianyu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300074, China
| | - Zhu Yushan
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300074, China
| | - Chen Quan
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300074, China
| | - Lin Jialing
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma 73126, USA
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46
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Raptinal bypasses BAX, BAK, and BOK for mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization and intrinsic apoptosis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:556. [PMID: 31324752 PMCID: PMC6642130 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Most antineoplastic chemotherapies eliminate cancer cells through activation of the mitochondria-controlled intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Therein, BAX, BAK, and/or BOK function as the essential pore-forming executioners of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP). The activation threshold of BAX and BAK also correlates inversely with the required strength of an apoptotic stimulus to induce MOMP and thereby effectively determines a cell’s readiness to undergo apoptosis. Consequently, the ‘gatekeepers’ BAX and BAK emerged as therapeutic targets, but functional or genetic loss renders BAX/BAK-targeting strategies prone to fail. Here, we show that the small molecule Raptinal overcomes this limitation by triggering cytochrome c release in a BAX/BAK/BOK-independent manner. Raptinal exerts a dual cytotoxic effect on cancer cells by rapid activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and simultaneous shutdown of mitochondrial function. Together with its efficacy to eliminate cancer cells in vivo, Raptinal could be useful in difficult-to-treat cancer entities harboring defects in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway.
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Abstract
It is believed that the Bcl-2 family protein Bok has a redundant role similar to Bax and Bak in regulating apoptosis. We report that this protein interacts with the key enzyme involved in uridine biosynthesis, uridine monophosphate synthetase, and positively regulates uridine biosynthesis and chemoconversion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Bok-deficient cell lines are resistant to 5-FU. Bok down-regulation is a key feature of cell lines and primary colorectal tumor tissues that are resistant to 5-FU. Our data also show that through its impact on nucleotide metabolism, Bok regulates p53 level and cellular proliferation. Our results have implications for developing Bok as a biomarker for 5-FU resistance and for the development of BOK mimetics for sensitizing 5-FU-resistant cancers. BCL-2 family proteins regulate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. BOK, a multidomain BCL-2 family protein, is generally believed to be an adaptor protein similar to BAK and BAX, regulating the mitochondrial permeability transition during apoptosis. Here we report that BOK is a positive regulator of a key enzyme involved in uridine biosynthesis; namely, uridine monophosphate synthetase (UMPS). Our data suggest that BOK expression enhances UMPS activity, cell proliferation, and chemosensitivity. Genetic deletion of Bok results in chemoresistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in different cell lines and in mice. Conversely, cancer cells and primary tissues that acquire resistance to 5-FU down-regulate BOK expression. Furthermore, we also provide evidence for a role for BOK in nucleotide metabolism and cell cycle regulation. Our results have implications in developing BOK as a biomarker for 5-FU resistance and have the potential for the development of BOK-mimetics for sensitizing 5-FU-resistant cancers.
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48
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Kang SH, Perales O, Michaud M, Katz SG. BOK promotes erythropoiesis in a mouse model of myelodysplastic syndrome. Ann Hematol 2019; 98:2089-2096. [PMID: 31203423 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-019-03726-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes are clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by cytopenia and intramedullary apoptosis. BCL-2 Ovarian Killer (BOK) is a pro-apoptotic member of the BCL-2 family of proteins which, when stabilized from endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD), induces apoptosis in response to ER stress. Although ER stress appropriately activates the unfolded protein response (UPR) in BOK-disrupted cells, the downstream effector signaling that includes ATF4 is defective. We used Nup98-HoxD13 (NHD13) transgenic mice to evaluate the consequences of BOK loss on hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis. Acute myeloid leukemia developed in 36.7% of NHD13 mice with a Bok gene knockout between the age of 8 and 13 months and presented a similar overall survival to the NHD13 mice. The loss of BOK exacerbated anemia in NHD13 mice, and NHD13/BOK-deficient mice exhibited significantly lower hemoglobin, lower mean cell hemoglobin concentration, and higher mean cell volume than NHD13 mice. Hematopoietic progenitor cell assays revealed a decreased amount of erythroid progenitor stem cells (BFU-E) in the bone marrow of NHD13-transgenic/BOK-deficient mice. RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated decreased mean value of ATF4 in the erythroid progenitors of NHD13 and NHD13/BOK-deficient mice. Our results suggest that in addition to induction of apoptosis in response to ER stress, BOK may regulate erythropoiesis when certain erythroid progenitors experience cell stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Ho Kang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Oscar Perales
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, LH 315B, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Michael Michaud
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, LH 315B, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Samuel G Katz
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, LH 315B, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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49
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Bok regulates mitochondrial fusion and morphology. Cell Death Differ 2019; 26:2682-2694. [PMID: 30976095 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0327-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bok (Bcl-2-related ovarian killer) is a member of the Bcl-2 protein family that governs the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, but the cellular role that Bok plays is controversial. Remarkably, endogenous Bok is constitutively bound to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) and is stabilized by this interaction. Here we report that despite the strong association with IP3Rs, deletion of Bok expression by CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein-9 nuclease)-mediated gene editing does not alter calcium mobilization via IP3Rs or calcium influx into the mitochondria. Rather, Bok deletion significantly reduces mitochondrial fusion rate, resulting in mitochondrial fragmentation. This phenotype is reversed by exogenous wild-type Bok and by an IP3R binding-deficient Bok mutant, and may result from a decrease in mitochondrial motility. Bok deletion also enhances mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity and membrane potential. Finally, Bok does not play a major role in apoptotic signaling, since Bok deletion does not alter responsiveness to various apoptotic stimuli. Overall, despite binding to IP3Rs, Bok does not alter IP3R-mediated Ca2+ signaling, but is required to maintain normal mitochondrial fusion, morphology, and bioenergetics.
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Ke FFS, Vanyai HK, Cowan AD, Delbridge ARD, Whitehead L, Grabow S, Czabotar PE, Voss AK, Strasser A. Embryogenesis and Adult Life in the Absence of Intrinsic Apoptosis Effectors BAX, BAK, and BOK. Cell 2019; 173:1217-1230.e17. [PMID: 29775594 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2018.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsic apoptosis, reliant on BAX and BAK, has been postulated to be fundamental for morphogenesis, but its precise contribution to this process has not been fully explored in mammals. Our structural analysis of BOK suggests close resemblance to BAX and BAK structures. Notably, Bok-/-Bax-/-Bak-/- animals exhibited more severe defects and died earlier than Bax-/-Bak-/- mice, implying that BOK has overlapping roles with BAX and BAK during developmental cell death. By analyzing Bok-/-Bax-/-Bak-/- triple-knockout mice whose cells are incapable of undergoing intrinsic apoptosis, we identified tissues that formed well without this process. We provide evidence that necroptosis, pyroptosis, or autophagy does not substantially substitute for the loss of apoptosis. Albeit very rare, unexpected attainment of adult Bok-/-Bax-/-Bak-/- mice suggests that morphogenesis can proceed entirely without apoptosis mediated by these proteins and possibly without cell death in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine F S Ke
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.
| | - Hannah K Vanyai
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Angus D Cowan
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Alex R D Delbridge
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Lachlan Whitehead
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Stephanie Grabow
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Peter E Czabotar
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Anne K Voss
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.
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