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Fang X, Svitkina TM. Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) in cell migration. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151228. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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2
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Yang X, Zhong J, Zhang Q, Feng L, Zheng Z, Zhang J, Lu S. Advances and Insights of APC-Asef Inhibitors for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:662579. [PMID: 33968990 PMCID: PMC8100458 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.662579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In Colorectal cancer (CRC), adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) directly interacts with the Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 4 (Asef) and releases its GEF activity. Activated Asef promotes the aberrant migration and invasion of CRC cell through a CDC42-mediated pathway. Knockdown of either APC or Asef significantly decreases the migration of CRC cells. Therefore, disrupting the APC-Asef interaction is a promising strategy for the treatment of invasive CRC. With the growth of structural information, APC-Asef inhibitors have been designed, providing hope for CRC therapy. Here, we will review the APC-Asef interaction in cancer biology, the structural complex of APC-Asef, two generations of peptide inhibitors of APC-Asef, and small molecule inhibitors of APC-Asef, focusing on research articles over the past 30 years. We posit that these advances in the discovery of APC-Asef inhibitors establish the protein-protein interaction (PPI) as targetable and provide a framework for other PPI programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyan Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zhong
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiufen Zhang
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Feng
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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3
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Phull MS, Jadav SS, Gundla R, Mainkar PS. A perspective on medicinal chemistry approaches towards adenomatous polyposis coli and Wnt signal based colorectal cancer inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 212:113149. [PMID: 33445154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the major causes of carcinogenic mortality in numbers only after lung and breast cancers. The mutations in adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene leads to formation of colorectal polyps in the colonic region and which develop as a malignant tumour upon coalition with patient related risk factors. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) of APC with Asef (A Rac specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor) overwhelms the patient's conditions by rapidly spreading in the entire colorectal region. Most mutations in APC gene occur in mutated cluster region (MCR), where it specifically binds with the cytosolic β-catenin to regulate the Wnt signalling pathway required for CRC cell adhesion, invasion, progression, differentiation and stemness in initial cell cycle phages. The current broad spectrum perspective is attempted to elaborate the sources of identification, development of selective APC inhibitors by targeting emopamil-binding protein (EBP) & dehydrocholesterol reductase-7 & 24 (DHCR-7 & 24); APC-Asef, β-catenin/APC, Wnt/β-catenin, β-catenin/TCF4 PPI inhibitors with other vital Wnt signal cellular proteins and APC/Pol-β interface of colorectal cancer. In this context, this perspective would serve as a platform for design of new medicinal agents by targeting cellular essential components which could accelerate anti-colorectal potential candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjinder Singh Phull
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to Be University), Hyderabad, 502329, Telangana, India
| | - Surender Singh Jadav
- Department of Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana, India
| | - Rambabu Gundla
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to Be University), Hyderabad, 502329, Telangana, India
| | - Prathama S Mainkar
- Department of Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, Utter Pradesh, India.
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4
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Waseem NH, Low S, Shah AZ, Avisetti D, Ostergaard P, Simpson M, Niemiec KA, Martin-Martin B, Aldehlawi H, Usman S, Lee PS, Khawaja AP, Ruddle JB, Shah A, Sackey E, Day A, Jiang Y, Swinfield G, Viswanathan A, Alfano G, Chakarova C, Cordell HJ, Garway-Heath DF, Khaw PT, Bhattacharya SS, Waseem A, Foster PJ. Mutations in SPATA13/ASEF2 cause primary angle closure glaucoma. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008721. [PMID: 32339198 PMCID: PMC7233598 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Current estimates suggest 50% of glaucoma blindness worldwide is caused by primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) but the causative gene is not known. We used genetic linkage and whole genome sequencing to identify Spermatogenesis Associated Protein 13, SPATA13 (NM_001166271; NP_001159743, SPATA13 isoform I), also known as ASEF2 (Adenomatous polyposis coli-stimulated guanine nucleotide exchange factor 2), as the causal gene for PACG in a large seven-generation white British family showing variable expression and incomplete penetrance. The 9 bp deletion, c.1432_1440del; p.478_480del was present in all affected individuals with angle-closure disease. We show ubiquitous expression of this transcript in cell lines derived from human tissues and in iris, retina, retinal pigment and ciliary epithelia, cornea and lens. We also identified eight additional mutations in SPATA13 in a cohort of 189 unrelated PACS/PAC/PACG samples. This gene encodes a 1277 residue protein which localises to the nucleus with partial co-localisation with nuclear speckles. In cells undergoing mitosis SPATA13 isoform I becomes part of the kinetochore complex co-localising with two kinetochore markers, polo like kinase 1 (PLK-1) and centrosome-associated protein E (CENP-E). The 9 bp deletion reported in this study increases the RAC1-dependent guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEF) activity. The increase in GEF activity was also observed in three other variants identified in this study. Taken together, our data suggest that SPATA13 is involved in the regulation of mitosis and the mutations dysregulate GEF activity affecting homeostasis in tissues where it is highly expressed, influencing PACG pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naushin H. Waseem
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sancy Low
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amna Z. Shah
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deepa Avisetti
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pia Ostergaard
- Medical Genetics Unit, St. George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Simpson
- Genetics and Molecular Medicine, King’s College London, Great Maze Pond, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katarzyna A. Niemiec
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Belen Martin-Martin
- Blizard Advanced Light Microscopy, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hebah Aldehlawi
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saima Usman
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pak Sang Lee
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P. Khawaja
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan B. Ruddle
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ameet Shah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Pond Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ege Sackey
- Medical Genetics Unit, St. George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Day
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yuzhen Jiang
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Geoff Swinfield
- Society of Genealogists, Goswell Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ananth Viswanathan
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanna Alfano
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Heather J. Cordell
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David F. Garway-Heath
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peng T. Khaw
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shomi S. Bhattacharya
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmad Waseem
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul J. Foster
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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5
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Abdrabou A, Wang Z. Post-Translational Modification and Subcellular Distribution of Rac1: An Update. Cells 2018; 7:cells7120263. [PMID: 30544910 PMCID: PMC6316090 DOI: 10.3390/cells7120263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Rac1 is a small GTPase that belongs to the Rho family. The Rho family of small GTPases is a subfamily of the Ras superfamily. The Rho family of GTPases mediate a plethora of cellular effects, including regulation of cytoarchitecture, cell size, cell adhesion, cell polarity, cell motility, proliferation, apoptosis/survival, and membrane trafficking. The cycling of Rac1 between the GTP (guanosine triphosphate)- and GDP (guanosine diphosphate)-bound states is essential for effective signal flow to elicit downstream biological functions. The cycle between inactive and active forms is controlled by three classes of regulatory proteins: Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), and guanine-nucleotide-dissociation inhibitors (GDIs). Other modifications include RNA splicing and microRNAs; various post-translational modifications have also been shown to regulate the activity and function of Rac1. The reported post-translational modifications include lipidation, ubiquitination, phosphorylation, and adenylylation, which have all been shown to play important roles in the regulation of Rac1 and other Rho GTPases. Moreover, the Rac1 activity and function are regulated by its subcellular distribution and translocation. This review focused on the most recent progress in Rac1 research, especially in the area of post-translational modification and subcellular distribution and translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla Abdrabou
- Department of Medical Genetics, and Signal Transduction Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada.
| | - Zhixiang Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, and Signal Transduction Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada.
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6
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Oh JY, Lim CS, Yoo KS, Park H, Park YS, Kim EG, Lee YS, Kaang BK, Kim HK. Adenomatous polyposis coli-stimulated GEF 1 (Asef1) is a negative regulator of excitatory synaptic function. J Neurochem 2018; 147:595-608. [PMID: 30125942 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) play important roles in many cellular processes, including regulation of the structural plasticity of dendritic spines. A GEF protein, adenomatous polyposis coli-stimulated GEF 1 (Asef1, ARHGEF4) is highly expressed in the nervous system. However, the function of Asef1 has not been investigated in neurons. Here, we present evidence showing that Asef1 negatively regulates the synaptic localization of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) in the excitatory synapse by inhibiting Staufen-mediated synaptic localization of PSD-95. Accordingly, Asef1 expression impairs synaptic transmission in hippocampal cultured neurons. In addition, neuronal activity facilitates the dissociation of Asef1 from Staufen in a phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)-dependent manner. Taken together, our data reveal Asef1 functions as a negative regulator of synaptic localization of PSD-95 and synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Young Oh
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea.,Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chae-Seok Lim
- Department of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Ki-Seo Yoo
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | | | - Young Seok Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Eung-Gook Kim
- Department of Medicine and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Yong-Seok Lee
- Department of Physiology, Department of Biomedical Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bong-Kiun Kaang
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyong Kyu Kim
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
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7
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Taniuchi K, Furihata M, Naganuma S, Saibara T. ARHGEF4 predicts poor prognosis and promotes cell invasion by influencing ERK1/2 and GSK-3α/β signaling in pancreatic cancer. Int J Oncol 2018; 53:2224-2240. [PMID: 30226582 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 4 (ARHGEF4) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that is specific for Rac1 and Cdc42. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of ARHGEF4 in the motility and invasiveness of pancreatic cancer cells. Evaluation of an immunohistochemical staining of 102 resected pancreatic cancer samples demonstrated that high ARHGEF4 expression was correlated with an independent predictor of worse overall survival in univariate and multivariate analyses. Immunofluorescence analyses and Matrigel invasion assays demonstrated that suppression of ARHGEF4 inhibited the formation of membrane protrusions, and in turn inhibited cell motility and invasion. A phosphoprotein array analysis demonstrated that knockdown of ARHGEF4 decreased phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3)α/β in pancreatic cancer cells, and ERK1/2 and GSK-3α/β were associated with ARHGEF4-related motility and invasiveness through an increase in cell protrusions. These results suggested that ARHGEF4 stimulates ERK1/2 and GSK-3α/β, and provided evidence that ARHGEF4 promotes cell motility and invasiveness. Inhibition of ARHGEF4 may be a novel approach to a targeted molecular therapy, as any such therapy would limit the motility and invasiveness of pancreatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Taniuchi
- Departments of Endoscopic Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Mutsuo Furihata
- Departments of Pathology, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Seiji Naganuma
- Departments of Pathology, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
| | - Toshiji Saibara
- Departments of Endoscopic Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
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8
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Validation and application of a novel APC antibody in western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemistry. Med Mol Morphol 2018; 51:227-236. [DOI: 10.1007/s00795-018-0196-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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9
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Kumar A, Kumar V, Rattan V, Jha V, Pal A, Bhattacharyya S. Molecular spectrum of secretome regulates the relative hepatogenic potential of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow and dental tissue. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15015. [PMID: 29118330 PMCID: PMC5678086 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-14358-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration is a spontaneous process that occurs after liver injury, but acute liver failure is a complex and fatal disease which is difficult to treat. Cell-based therapies are promising alternative therapeutic approach for liver failure and different cell sources have been tested in this regard. We investigated the comparative hepatogenic potential of human bone marrow stem cells (BMSC) with stem cells derived from human dental pulp (DPSC), apical papilla (SCAP) and follicle (DFSC) during this study. Hepatogenic potential of stem cells was assessed by functional assays at both genetic and protein level. We observed higher expression of most of the hepatic markers post differentiation in DPSCs compared to other cell types. LC-MS/MS analysis of stem cell secretome revealed the presence of different proteins related to hepatogenic lineage like growth arrest specific protein 6, oncostatin M, hepatocyte growth factor receptor etc. Interactome and Reactome pathway analysis revealed the interaction of DPSC/SCAP secretome proteins and these proteins were found to be associated with various pathways involved in lipid transport and metabolism. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study regarding detailed investigation of hepatogenic potential of BMSCs v/s DMSCs (DPSC, SCAP & DFSC) along-with secretome characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Nephrology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vidya Rattan
- Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Oral health science centre, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vivekananda Jha
- Department of Nephrology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India.,University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arnab Pal
- Department of Biochemistry, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
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10
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Garland J. Unravelling the complexity of signalling networks in cancer: A review of the increasing role for computational modelling. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 117:73-113. [PMID: 28807238 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer induction is a highly complex process involving hundreds of different inducers but whose eventual outcome is the same. Clearly, it is essential to understand how signalling pathways and networks generated by these inducers interact to regulate cell behaviour and create the cancer phenotype. While enormous strides have been made in identifying key networking profiles, the amount of data generated far exceeds our ability to understand how it all "fits together". The number of potential interactions is astronomically large and requires novel approaches and extreme computation methods to dissect them out. However, such methodologies have high intrinsic mathematical and conceptual content which is difficult to follow. This review explains how computation modelling is progressively finding solutions and also revealing unexpected and unpredictable nano-scale molecular behaviours extremely relevant to how signalling and networking are coherently integrated. It is divided into linked sections illustrated by numerous figures from the literature describing different approaches and offering visual portrayals of networking and major conceptual advances in the field. First, the problem of signalling complexity and data collection is illustrated for only a small selection of known oncogenes. Next, new concepts from biophysics, molecular behaviours, kinetics, organisation at the nano level and predictive models are presented. These areas include: visual representations of networking, Energy Landscapes and energy transfer/dissemination (entropy); diffusion, percolation; molecular crowding; protein allostery; quinary structure and fractal distributions; energy management, metabolism and re-examination of the Warburg effect. The importance of unravelling complex network interactions is then illustrated for some widely-used drugs in cancer therapy whose interactions are very extensive. Finally, use of computational modelling to develop micro- and nano- functional models ("bottom-up" research) is highlighted. The review concludes that computational modelling is an essential part of cancer research and is vital to understanding network formation and molecular behaviours that are associated with it. Its role is increasingly essential because it is unravelling the huge complexity of cancer induction otherwise unattainable by any other approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Garland
- Manchester Interdisciplinary Biocentre, Manchester University, Manchester, UK.
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11
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VanKlompenberg MK, Bedalov CO, Soto KF, Prosperi JR. APC selectively mediates response to chemotherapeutic agents in breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:457. [PMID: 26049416 PMCID: PMC4458029 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1456-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) tumor suppressor is mutated or hypermethylated in up to 70 % of sporadic breast cancers depending on subtype; however, the effects of APC mutation on tumorigenic properties remain unexplored. Using the ApcMin/+ mouse crossed to the Polyoma middle T antigen (PyMT) transgenic model, we identified enhanced breast tumorigenesis and alterations in genes critical in therapeutic resistance independent of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Apc mutation changed the tumor histopathology from solid to squamous adenocarcinomas, resembling the highly aggressive human metaplastic breast cancer. Mechanistic studies in tumor-derived cell lines demonstrated that focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/Src/JNK signaling regulated the enhanced proliferation downstream of Apc mutation. Despite this mechanistic information, the role of APC in mediating breast cancer chemotherapeutic resistance is currently unknown. Methods We have examined the effect of Apc loss in MMTV-PyMT mouse breast cancer cells on gene expression changes of ATP-binding cassette transporters and immunofluorescence to determine proliferative and apoptotic response of cells to cisplatin, doxorubicin and paclitaxel. Furthermore we determined the added effect of Src or JNK inhibition by PP2 and SP600125, respectively, on chemotherapeutic response. We also used the Aldefluor assay to measure the population of tumor initiating cells. Lastly, we measured the apoptotic and proliferative response to APC knockdown in MDA-MB-157 human breast cancer cells after chemotherapeutic treatment. Results Cells obtained from MMTV-PyMT;ApcMin/+ tumors express increased MDR1 (multidrug resistance protein 1), which is augmented by treatment with paclitaxel or doxorubicin. Furthermore MMTV-PyMT;ApcMin/+ cells are more resistant to cisplatin and doxorubicin-induced apoptosis, and show a larger population of ALDH positive cells. In the human metaplastic breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-157, APC knockdown led to paclitaxel and cisplatin resistance. Conclusions APC loss-of-function significantly increases resistance to cisplatin-mediated apoptosis in both MDA-MB-157 and the PyMT derived cells. We also demonstrated that cisplatin in combination with PP2 or SP600125 could be clinically beneficial, as inhibition of Src or JNK in an APC-mutant breast cancer patient may alleviate the resistance induced by mutant APC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-015-1456-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica K VanKlompenberg
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, A134 Harper Hall, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN, 46617, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine - South Bend, South Bend, IN, USA
| | - Claire O Bedalov
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, A134 Harper Hall, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN, 46617, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Katia Fernandez Soto
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, A134 Harper Hall, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN, 46617, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Jenifer R Prosperi
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, A134 Harper Hall, 1234 Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN, 46617, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine - South Bend, South Bend, IN, USA. .,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
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12
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Evans JC, Robinson CM, Shi M, Webb DJ. The guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Asef2 promotes dendritic spine formation via Rac activation and spinophilin-dependent targeting. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:10295-308. [PMID: 25750125 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.605543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are actin-rich protrusions that establish excitatory synaptic contacts with surrounding neurons. Reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is critical for the development and plasticity of dendritic spines, which is the basis for learning and memory. Rho family GTPases are emerging as important modulators of spines and synapses, predominantly through their ability to regulate actin dynamics. Much less is known, however, about the function of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), which activate these GTPases, in spine and synapse development. In this study we show that the Rho family GEF Asef2 is found at synaptic sites, where it promotes dendritic spine and synapse formation. Knockdown of endogenous Asef2 with shRNAs impairs spine and synapse formation, whereas exogenous expression of Asef2 causes an increase in spine and synapse density. This effect of Asef2 on spines and synapses is abrogated by expression of GEF activity-deficient Asef2 mutants or by knockdown of Rac, suggesting that Asef2-Rac signaling mediates spine development. Because Asef2 interacts with the F-actin-binding protein spinophilin, which localizes to spines, we investigated the role of spinophilin in Asef2-promoted spine formation. Spinophilin recruits Asef2 to spines, and knockdown of spinophilin hinders spine and synapse formation in Asef2-expressing neurons. Furthermore, inhibition of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDA) activity blocks spinophilin-mediated localization of Asef2 to spines. These results collectively point to spinophilin-Asef2-Rac signaling as a novel mechanism for the development of dendritic spines and synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Corey Evans
- From the Department of Biological Sciences and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development and
| | - Cristina M Robinson
- From the Department of Biological Sciences and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development and
| | - Mingjian Shi
- From the Department of Biological Sciences and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development and
| | - Donna J Webb
- From the Department of Biological Sciences and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development and the Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235
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13
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Tian X, Tian Y, Gawlak G, Meng F, Kawasaki Y, Akiyama T, Birukova AA. Asef controls vascular endothelial permeability and barrier recovery in the lung. Mol Biol Cell 2014; 26:636-50. [PMID: 25518936 PMCID: PMC4325835 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e14-02-0725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This is the first report of Asef involvement in the regulation of endothelial vascular permeability in vitro and in vivo. Asef activation in endothelial cells by hepatocyte growth factor suppressed the Rho-dependent pathway of agonist-induced endothelial permeability and promoted Rac1-dependent endothelial barrier recovery. Increased levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in injured lungs may reflect a compensatory response to diminish acute lung injury (ALI). HGF-induced activation of Rac1 GTPase stimulates endothelial barrier protective mechanisms. This study tested the involvement of Rac-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor Asef in HGF-induced endothelial cell (EC) cytoskeletal dynamics and barrier protection in vitro and in a two-hit model of ALI. HGF induced membrane translocation of Asef and stimulated Asef Rac1-specific nucleotide exchange activity. Expression of constitutively activated Asef mutant mimicked HGF-induced peripheral actin cytoskeleton enhancement. In contrast, siRNA-induced Asef knockdown or expression of dominant-negative Asef attenuated HGF-induced Rac1 activation evaluated by Rac-GTP pull down and FRET assay with Rac1 biosensor. Molecular inhibition of Asef attenuated HGF-induced peripheral accumulation of cortactin, formation of lamellipodia-like structures, and enhancement of VE-cadherin adherens junctions and compromised HGF-protective effect against thrombin-induced RhoA GTPase activation, Rho-dependent cytoskeleton remodeling, and EC permeability. Intravenous HGF injection attenuated lung inflammation and vascular leak in the two-hit model of ALI induced by excessive mechanical ventilation and thrombin signaling peptide TRAP6. This effect was lost in Asef−/− mice. This study shows for the first time the role of Asef in HGF-mediated protection against endothelial hyperpermeability and lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyong Tian
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637
| | - Yufeng Tian
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637
| | - Grzegorz Gawlak
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637
| | - Fanyong Meng
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637
| | - Yoshihiro Kawasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Tetsu Akiyama
- Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Anna A Birukova
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637
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14
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Tian Y, Gawlak G, Shah AS, Higginbotham K, Tian X, Kawasaki Y, Akiyama T, Sacks DB, Birukova AA. Hepatocyte growth factor-induced Asef-IQGAP1 complex controls cytoskeletal remodeling and endothelial barrier. J Biol Chem 2014; 290:4097-109. [PMID: 25492863 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.620377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) attenuates agonist-induced endothelial cell (EC) permeability and increases pulmonary endothelial barrier function via Rac-dependent enhancement of the peripheral actin cytoskeleton. However, the precise mechanisms of HGF effects on the peripheral cytoskeleton are not well understood. This study evaluated a role for Rac/Cdc42-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor Asef and the multifunctional Rac effector, IQGAP1, in the mechanism of HGF-induced EC barrier enhancement. HGF induced Asef and IQGAP1 co-localization at the cell cortical area and stimulated formation of an Asef-IQGAP1 functional protein complex. siRNA-induced knockdown of Asef or IQGAP1 attenuated HGF-induced EC barrier enhancement. Asef knockdown attenuated HGF-induced Rac activation and Rac association with IQGAP1, and it abolished both IQGAP1 accumulation at the cell cortical layer and IQGAP1 interaction with actin cytoskeletal regulators cortactin and Arp3. Asef activation state was essential for Asef interaction with IQGAP1 and protein complex accumulation at the cell periphery. In addition to the previously reported role of the IQGAP1 RasGAP-related domain in the Rac-dependent IQGAP1 activation and interaction with its targets, we show that the IQGAP1 C-terminal domain is essential for HGF-induced IQGAP1/Asef interaction and Asef-Rac-dependent activation leading to IQGAP1 interaction with Arp3 and cortactin as a positive feedback mechanism of IQGAP1 activation. These results demonstrate a novel feedback mechanism of HGF-induced endothelial barrier enhancement via Asef/IQGAP1 interactions, which regulate the level of HGF-induced Rac activation and promote cortical cytoskeletal remodeling via IQGAP1-Arp3/cortactin interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Tian
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Grzegorz Gawlak
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Alok S Shah
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Katherine Higginbotham
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Xinyong Tian
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Yoshihiro Kawasaki
- the Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, 113-8654 Tokyo, Japan, and
| | - Tetsu Akiyama
- the Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, 113-8654 Tokyo, Japan, and
| | - David B Sacks
- the Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Anna A Birukova
- From the Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637,
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15
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Goicoechea SM, Awadia S, Garcia-Mata R. I'm coming to GEF you: Regulation of RhoGEFs during cell migration. Cell Adh Migr 2014; 8:535-49. [PMID: 25482524 PMCID: PMC4594598 DOI: 10.4161/cam.28721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell migration is a highly regulated multistep process that requires the coordinated regulation of cell adhesion, protrusion, and contraction. These processes require numerous protein–protein interactions and the activation of specific signaling pathways. The Rho family of GTPases plays a key role in virtually every aspect of the cell migration cycle. The activation of Rho GTPases is mediated by a large and diverse family of proteins; the guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RhoGEFs). GEFs work immediately upstream of Rho proteins to provide a direct link between Rho activation and cell–surface receptors for various cytokines, growth factors, adhesion molecules, and G protein-coupled receptors. The regulated targeting and activation of RhoGEFs is essential to coordinate the migratory process. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of the role of RhoGEFs in the regulation of cell migration.
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Key Words
- DH, Dbl-homology
- DHR, DOCK homology region
- DOCK, dedicator of cytokinesis
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EGF, epidermal growth factor
- FA, focal adhesion
- FN, fibronectin
- GAP, GTPase activating protein
- GDI, guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitor
- GEF, guanine nucleotide exchange factor
- GPCR, G protein-coupled receptor
- HGF, hepatocyte growth factor
- LPA, lysophosphatidic acid
- MII, myosin II
- PA, phosphatidic acid
- PDGF, platelet-derived growth factor
- PH, pleckstrin-homology
- PIP2, phosphatidylinositol 4, 5-bisphosphate
- PIP3, phosphatidylinositol (3, 4, 5)-trisphosphate.
- Rho GEFs
- Rho GTPases
- bFGF, basic fibroblast growth factor
- cell migration
- cell polarization
- focal adhesions
- guanine nucleotide exchange factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia M Goicoechea
- a Department of Biological Sciences ; University of Toledo ; Toledo , OH USA
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16
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Kawasaki Y, Furukawa S, Sato R, Akiyama T. Differences in the localization of the adenomatous polyposis coli-Asef/Asef2 complex between adenomatous polyposis coli wild-type and mutant cells. Cancer Sci 2014; 104:1135-8. [PMID: 23910005 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) is mutated in familial adenomatous polyposis and in many sporadic colorectal tumors. Adenomatous polyposis coli is known to negatively regulate Wnt signaling by inducing the degradation of β-catenin. Adenomatous polyposis coli also interacts with the guanine nucleotide exchange factors Asef and Asef2 and stimulates their activity, thereby regulating cell adhesion and migration. Here we show that in confluent, non-motile MDCK II cells, Asef/Asef2 are colocalized with APC at the sites of cell-cell adhesion at the apical and junctional levels. In contrast, in colorectal tumor cells containing mutated APC, significant amounts of Asef/Asef2 and the truncated mutant APCs are localized mainly in the cytoplasm. These results suggest that localization of the Asef/Asef2-APC complex at the sites of cell-cell contact is critical for the regulation of cell adhesion, and that the aberrant subcellular localization of these complexes in colorectal tumor cells may contribute to the cell's aberrant adhesive and migratory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Kawasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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17
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Zeller E, Hammer K, Kirschnick M, Braeuning A. Mechanisms of RAS/β-catenin interactions. Arch Toxicol 2013; 87:611-32. [PMID: 23483189 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-013-1035-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Signaling through the WNT/β-catenin and the RAS (rat sarcoma)/MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathways plays a key role in the regulation of various physiological cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. Aberrant mutational activation of these signaling pathways is closely linked to the development of cancer in many organs, in humans as well as in laboratory animals. Over the past years, more and more evidence for a close linkage of the two oncogenic signaling cascades has accumulated. Using different experimental approaches, model systems, and experimental conditions, a variety of molecular mechanisms have been identified by which signal transduction through WNT/β-catenin and RAS interact, either in a synergistic or an antagonistic manner. Mechanisms of interaction comprise an upstream crosstalk at the level of pathway-activating ligands and their receptors, interrelations of cytosolic kinases involved in either pathways, as well as interaction in the nucleus related to the joint regulation of target gene transcription. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the current knowledge on the interaction of RAS/MAPK- and WNT/β-catenin-driven signal transduction in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zeller
- Department of Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Tübingen, Germany
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18
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Regulation of adherens junctions by Rho GTPases and p120-catenin. Arch Biochem Biophys 2012; 524:48-55. [PMID: 22583808 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2012.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 04/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms leading to tumor progression and acquisition of a metastatic phenotype are highly complex and only partially understood. The spatiotemporal regulation of E-cadherin-mediated adherens junctions is essential for normal epithelia function and tissue integrity. Perturbation of the E-cadherin complex assembly is a key event in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and is directed by a huge number of mechanisms that differ greatly with regard to cell types and tissues. The reduction in intercellular adhesion interferes with tissue integrity and allows cancer cells to disseminate from the primary tumor thereby initiating cancer metastasis. In the present review we will summarize the current findings about the influence of Rho GTPases on the formation and maintenance of adherens junction and will then proceed to discuss the involvement of p120-catenin on cell-cell adhesion and tumor cell migration.
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19
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Zhang Z, Chen L, Gao L, Lin K, Zhu L, Lu Y, Shi X, Gao Y, Zhou J, Xu P, Zhang J, Wu G. Structural basis for the recognition of Asef by adenomatous polyposis coli. Cell Res 2011; 22:372-86. [PMID: 21788986 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2011.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) regulates cell-cell adhesion and cell migration through activating the APC-stimulated guanine nucleotide-exchange factor (GEF; Asef), which is usually autoinhibited through the binding between its Src homology 3 (SH3) and Dbl homology (DH) domains. The APC-activated Asef stimulates the small GTPase Cdc42, which leads to decreased cell-cell adherence and enhanced cell migration. In colorectal cancers, truncated APC constitutively activates Asef and promotes cancer cell migration and angiogenesis. Here, we report crystal structures of the human APC/Asef complex. We find that the armadillo repeat domain of APC uses a highly conserved surface groove to recognize the APC-binding region (ABR) of Asef, conformation of which changes dramatically upon binding to APC. Key residues on APC and Asef for the complex formation were mutated and their importance was demonstrated by binding and activity assays. Structural superimposition of the APC/Asef complex with autoinhibited Asef suggests that the binding between APC and Asef might create a steric clash between Asef-DH domain and APC, which possibly leads to a conformational change in Asef that stimulates its GEF activity. Our structures thus elucidate the molecular mechanism of Asef recognition by APC, as well as provide a potential target for pharmaceutical intervention against cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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20
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Bristow JM, Sellers MH, Majumdar D, Anderson B, Hu L, Webb DJ. The Rho-family GEF Asef2 activates Rac to modulate adhesion and actin dynamics and thereby regulate cell migration. J Cell Sci 2009; 122:4535-46. [PMID: 19934221 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.053728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Asef2 is a recently identified Rho-family guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that has been implicated in the modulation of actin, but its function in cell migration and adhesion dynamics is not well understood. In this study, we show that Asef2 is an important regulator of cell migration and adhesion assembly and disassembly (turnover). Asef2 localizes with actin at the leading edge of cells. Knockdown of endogenous Asef2 impairs migration and significantly slows the turnover of adhesions. Asef2 enhances both Rac1 and Cdc42 activity in HT1080 cells, but only Rac1 is crucial for the Asef2-promoted increase in migration and adhesion turnover. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and the serine/threonine kinase Akt are also essential for the Asef2-mediated effects on migration and adhesion turnover. Consistent with this, Asef2 increases the amount of active Akt at the leading edge of cells. Asef2 signaling leads to an overall decrease in Rho activity, which is crucial for stimulating migration and adhesion dynamics. Thus, our results reveal an important new role for Asef2 in promoting cell migration and rapid adhesion turnover by coordinately regulating the activities of Rho-family GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne M Bristow
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, USA
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21
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Kawasaki Y, Jigami T, Furukawa S, Sagara M, Echizen K, Shibata Y, Sato R, Akiyama T. The adenomatous polyposis coli-associated guanine nucleotide exchange factor Asef is involved in angiogenesis. J Biol Chem 2009; 285:1199-207. [PMID: 19897489 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.040691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation of the tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) is a key early event in the development of most colorectal tumors. APC promotes degradation of beta-catenin and thereby negatively regulates Wnt signaling, whereas mutated APCs present in colorectal tumor cells are defective in this activity. APC also stimulates the activity of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Asef and regulates cell morphology and migration. Truncated mutant APCs constitutively activate Asef and induce aberrant migration of colorectal tumor cells. Furthermore, we have recently found that Asef and APC function downstream of hepatocyte growth factor and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. We show here that Asef is required for basic fibroblast growth factor- and vascular endothelial growth factor-induced endothelial cell migration. We further demonstrate that Asef is required for basic fibroblast growth factor- and vascular endothelial growth factor-induced microvessel formation. Furthermore, we show that the growth as well as vascularity of subcutaneously implanted tumors are markedly impaired in Asef(-/-) mice compared with wild-type mice. Thus, Asef plays a critical role in tumor angiogenesis and may be a promising target for cancer chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Kawasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular and Genetic Information, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
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