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Huybrechts Y, Appelman-Dijkstra NM, Steenackers E, Van Beylen W, Mortier G, Hendrickx G, Van Hul W. A Mosaic Variant in CTNNB1/β-catenin as a Novel Cause for Osteopathia Striata With Cranial Sclerosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1891-1898. [PMID: 38173341 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis (OSCS) is a rare bone disorder with X-linked dominant inheritance, characterized by a generalized hyperostosis in the skull and long bones and typical metaphyseal striations in the long bones. So far, loss-of-function variants in AMER1 (also known as WTX or FAM123B), encoding the APC membrane recruitment protein 1 (AMER1), have been described as the only molecular cause for OSCS. AMER1 promotes the degradation of β-catenin via AXIN stabilization, acting as a negative regulator of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, a central pathway in bone formation. OBJECTIVE In this study, we describe a Dutch adult woman with an OSCS-like phenotype, namely, generalized high bone mass and characteristic metaphyseal striations, but no genetic variant affecting AMER1. RESULTS Whole exome sequencing led to the identification of a mosaic missense variant (c.876A > C; p.Lys292Asn) in CTNNB1, coding for β-catenin. The variant disrupts an amino acid known to be crucial for interaction with AXIN, a key factor in the β-catenin destruction complex. Western blotting experiments demonstrate that the p.Lys292Asn variant does not significantly affect the β-catenin phosphorylation status, and hence stability in the cytoplasm. Additionally, luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the effect of p.Lys292Asn β-catenin on canonical WNT signaling. These studies indicate an average 70-fold increase in canonical WNT signaling activity by p.Lys292Asn β-catenin. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study indicates that somatic variants in the CTNNB1 gene could explain the pathogenesis of unsolved cases of osteopathia striata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yentl Huybrechts
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Natasha M Appelman-Dijkstra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Steenackers
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Wouter Van Beylen
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Geert Mortier
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
- Laboratory for Skeletal Dysplasia Research, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gretl Hendrickx
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
- Laboratory for Skeletal Dysplasia Research, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Hul
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
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Abu-El-Haija A, Dillahunt K, Safina N, Aldeeri A, Glavan T, Mihalek I, Shinawi M. Osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis as a cancer predisposition syndrome: The first report of neuroblastoma and review of all cancers in OSCS. Am J Med Genet A 2024:e63709. [PMID: 38801192 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63709] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Osteopathia Striata with Cranial Sclerosis (OSCS) is a rare genetic condition primarily characterized by metaphyseal striations of long bones, bone sclerosis, macrocephaly, and other congenital anomalies. It is caused by pathogenic variants in AMER1, a tumor suppressor and a WNT signaling repressor gene with key roles in tissue regeneration, neurodevelopment, tumorigenesis, and other developmental processes. While somatic AMER1 pathogenic variants have frequently been identified in several tumor types (e.g., Wilms tumor and colorectal cancer), whether OSCS (i.e., with AMER1 germline variants) is a tumor predisposition syndrome is not clear, with only nine cases reported with tumors. We here report the first case of neuroblastoma diagnosed in a male child with OSCS, review all previously reported tumors diagnosed in individuals with OSCS, and discuss potential tumorigenic mechanisms of AMER1. Our report adds to the accumulating evidence suggesting OSCS is a tumor predisposition condition, highlighting the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for the associated tumors when evaluating patients with OSCS. Importantly, Wilms tumor stands out as the most commonly observed tumor in OSCS patients, underscoring the need for regular surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Abu-El-Haija
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Kyle Dillahunt
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
| | - Nicole Safina
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UI Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, USA
| | - Abdulrahman Aldeeri
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tomislav Glavan
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ivana Mihalek
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Marwan Shinawi
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, USA
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Qiu L, Sun Y, Ning H, Chen G, Zhao W, Gao Y. The scaffold protein AXIN1: gene ontology, signal network, and physiological function. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:77. [PMID: 38291457 PMCID: PMC10826278 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
AXIN1, has been initially identified as a prominent antagonist within the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, and subsequently unveiled its integral involvement across a diverse spectrum of signaling cascades. These encompass the WNT/β-catenin, Hippo, TGFβ, AMPK, mTOR, MAPK, and antioxidant signaling pathways. The versatile engagement of AXIN1 underscores its pivotal role in the modulation of developmental biological signaling, maintenance of metabolic homeostasis, and coordination of cellular stress responses. The multifaceted functionalities of AXIN1 render it as a compelling candidate for targeted intervention in the realms of degenerative pathologies, systemic metabolic disorders, cancer therapeutics, and anti-aging strategies. This review provides an intricate exploration of the mechanisms governing mammalian AXIN1 gene expression and protein turnover since its initial discovery, while also elucidating its significance in the regulation of signaling pathways, tissue development, and carcinogenesis. Furthermore, we have introduced the innovative concept of the AXIN1-Associated Phosphokinase Complex (AAPC), where the scaffold protein AXIN1 assumes a pivotal role in orchestrating site-specific phosphorylation modifications through interactions with various phosphokinases and their respective substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Qiu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yixuan Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Haoming Ning
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Guanyu Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Wenshan Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Yanfeng Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
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Sun L, Ping L, Fan X, Fan Y, Zhang B, Chen X. amer1 Regulates Zebrafish Craniofacial Development by Interacting with the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:734. [PMID: 38255806 PMCID: PMC10815499 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Microtia-atresia is a rare type of congenital craniofacial malformation causing severe damage to the appearance and hearing ability of affected individuals. The genetic factors associated with microtia-atresia have not yet been determined. The AMER1 gene has been identified as potentially pathogenic for microtia-atresia in two twin families. An amer1 mosaic knockdown zebrafish model was constructed using CRISPR/Cas9. The phenotype and the development process of cranial neural crest cells of the knockdown zebrafish were examined. Components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway were examined by qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence assay. IWR-1-endo, a reversible inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, was applied to rescue the abnormal phenotype. The present study showed that the development of mandibular cartilage in zebrafish was severely compromised by amer1 knockdown using CRISPR/Cas9. Specifically, amer1 knockdown was found to affect the proliferation and apoptosis of cranial neural crest cells, as well as their differentiation to chondrocytes. Mechanistically, amer1 exerted an antagonistic effect on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The application of IWR-1-endo could partially rescue the abnormal phenotype. We demonstrated that amer1 was essential for the craniofacial development of zebrafish by interacting with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These findings provide important insight into the role of amer1 in zebrafish mandibular development and the pathology of microtia-atresia caused by AMER1 gene mutations in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; (L.S.); (X.F.); (Y.F.)
| | - Lu Ping
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China;
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xinmiao Fan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; (L.S.); (X.F.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yue Fan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; (L.S.); (X.F.); (Y.F.)
| | - Bo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; (L.S.); (X.F.); (Y.F.)
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Song B, Lee SH, Park JH, Moon KC. Clear Cell Adenocarcinoma of Urethra: Clinical and Pathologic Implications and Characterization of Molecular Aberrations. Cancer Res Treat 2024; 56:280-293. [PMID: 37697729 PMCID: PMC10789969 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2023.577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the molecular features of clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) of the urinary tract and investigate its pathogenic pathways and possible actionable targets. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively collected the data of patients with CCA between January 1999 and December 2016; the data were independently reviewed by two pathologists. We selected five cases of urinary CCA, based on the clinicopathological features. We analyzed these five cases by whole exome sequencing (WES) and subsequent bioinformatics analyses to determine the mutational spectrum and possible pathogenic pathways. RESULTS All patients were female with a median age of 62 years. All tumors were located in the urethra and showed aggressive behavior with disease progression. WES revealed several genetic alterations, including driver gene mutations (AMER1, ARID1A, CHD4, KMT2D, KRAS, PBRM1, and PIK3R1) and mutations in other important genes with tumor-suppressive and oncogenic roles (CSMD3, KEAP1, SMARCA4, and CACNA1D). We suggest putative pathogenic pathways (chromatin remodeling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway) as candidates for targeted therapies. CONCLUSION Our findings shed light on the molecular background of this extremely rare tumor with poor prognosis and can help improve treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boram Song
- Department of Pathology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Hwan Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Chul Moon
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Wang Y, Mao A, Liu J, Li P, Zheng S, Tong T, Li Z, Zhang H, Ma L, Lin J, Pang Z, Han Q, Qi F, Zhang X, Chen M, He X, Zhang X, Fei T, Liu BF, Gao D, Cao L, Wang Q, Li Y, Sheng R. USP10 strikes down β-catenin by dual-wielding deubiquitinase activity and phase separation potential. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1436-1452.e10. [PMID: 37611590 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.07.016] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a conserved pathway crucially governing development, homeostasis, and oncogenesis. Discoveries of its regulators hold great values in both basic and translational research. Through screening, we identified a deubiquitinase, USP10, as a critical modulator of β-catenin. Mechanistically, USP10 binds to key scaffold Axin1 via conserved motifs and stabilizes Axin1 through K48-linked deubiquitination. Surprisingly, USP10 physically tethers Axin1 and β-catenin and promotes the phase separation for β-catenin suppression regardless of the enzymatic activity. Function-wise, USP10 enzymatic activity preferably regulates embryonic development and both the enzymatic activity and physical function jointly control intestinal homeostasis by antagonizing β-catenin. In colorectal cancer, USP10 substantially represses cancer growth mainly through physical promotion of phase separation and correlates with Wnt/β-catenin magnitude clinically. Collectively, we discovered USP10 functioning in multiple biological processes against β-catenin and unearthed the enzyme-dependent and -independent "dual-regulating" mechanism. These two functions of USP10 work in parallel and are context dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinuo Wang
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Aihua Mao
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Sciences, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China
| | - Jingwei Liu
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Pengjie Li
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shaoqin Zheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Tong Tong
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Zexu Li
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Haijiao Zhang
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Lanjing Ma
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Jiahui Lin
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Zhongqiu Pang
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Qing Han
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Fukang Qi
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xinjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Maorong Chen
- F.M Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xi He
- F.M Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xi Zhang
- College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Teng Fei
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Bi-Feng Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Daming Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Liu Cao
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
| | - Qiang Wang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yiwei Li
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Ren Sheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China.
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Lei S, Chen C, Han F, Deng J, Huang D, Qian L, Zhu M, Ma X, Lai M, Xu E, Zhang H. AMER1 deficiency promotes the distant metastasis of colorectal cancer by inhibiting SLC7A11- and FTL-mediated ferroptosis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113110. [PMID: 37682704 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113110] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The crosstalk between ferroptosis and cancer metastasis remains unclear. Here, we identify AMER1 as a key regulator of ferroptosis. AMER1 loss causes resistance to ferroptosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Interestingly, AMER1-deficient CRC cells preferentially form distant metastases, while AMER1-naive CRC cells mainly invade lymph nodes. Moreover, the ferroptosis inhibitor liproxstatin-1 effectively promotes hematogenous transfer of AMER1-naive cells. Mechanistically, AMER1 binds to SLC7A11 and ferritin light chain (FTL) and recruits β-TrCP1/2, which degrade SLC7A11 and FTL by ubiquitination. Therefore, AMER1 deficiency increases cellular cystine levels but decreases the pool of labile free iron, thereby enhancing resistance to ferroptosis in CRC cells. Thus, AMER1 deficiency increases the survival of CRC cells in the blood under conditions of high oxidative stress and then promotes hematogenous metastasis of CRC. In conclusion, AMER1 mediates the crosstalk between ferroptosis and cancer metastasis, which provides a window of opportunity for treating metastatic colorectal cancer patients with AMER1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqin Lei
- Department of Pathology and International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chaoyi Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Fengyan Han
- Department of Pathology and International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jingwen Deng
- Department of Pathology and International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Dongdong Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lili Qian
- Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Ming Zhu
- Department of Pathology and International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiaohui Ma
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Research Center, The State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tasly Academy, Tasly Holding Group Co., Ltd., Tianjin 300410, China
| | - Maode Lai
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Enping Xu
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Honghe Zhang
- Department of Pathology and International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Chen J, Cuevas P, Dworan J, Dawid I, Turkkahraman H, Tran K, Delgado-Calle J, Bellido T, Gorski J, Liu B, Brunski J, Helms J. Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Controls Maxillofacial Hyperostosis. J Dent Res 2022; 101:793-801. [PMID: 35114849 PMCID: PMC10850863 DOI: 10.1177/00220345211067705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in regulating the morphology and microstructure of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) bones was explored using mice carrying a constitutively active form of β-catenin in activating Dmp1-expressing cells (e.g., daβcatOt mice). By postnatal day 24, daβcatOt mice exhibited midfacial truncations coupled with maxillary and mandibular hyperostosis that progressively worsened with age. Mechanistic insights into the basis for the hyperostotic facial phenotype were gained through molecular and cellular analyses, which revealed that constitutively activated β-catenin in Dmp1-expressing cells resulted in an increase in osteoblast number and an increased rate of mineral apposition. An increase in osteoblasts was accompanied by an increase in osteocytes, but they failed to mature. The resulting CMF bone matrix also had an abundance of osteoid, and in locations where compact lamellar bone typically forms, it was replaced by porous, woven bone. The hyperostotic facial phenotype was progressive. These findings identify for the first time a ligand-independent positive feedback loop whereby unrestrained Wnt/β-catenin signaling results in a CMF phenotype of progressive hyperostosis combined with architecturally abnormal, poorly mineralized matrix that is reminiscent of craniotubular disorders in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - P.L. Cuevas
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - J.S. Dworan
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Anatomy, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Vienna, Austria
| | - I. Dawid
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - H. Turkkahraman
- Indiana University School of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics & Oral Facial Genetics, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - K. Tran
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - J. Delgado-Calle
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - T. Bellido
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - J.P. Gorski
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, and Center of Excellence in Mineralized Tissue Research, University of Missouri–Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - B. Liu
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - J.B. Brunski
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - J.A. Helms
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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The Intricate Epigenetic and Transcriptional Alterations in Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas: Targeting the Crosstalk as the Oncogenic Achilles’ Heel. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061311. [PMID: 35740334 PMCID: PMC9219798 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061311] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) are a deadly and heterogenous subgroup of gliomas for which the development of innovative treatments is urgent. Advances in high-throughput molecular techniques have shed light on key epigenetic components of these diseases, such as K27M and G34R/V mutations on histone 3. However, modification of DNA compaction is not sufficient by itself to drive those tumors. Here, we review molecular specificities of pHGGs subcategories in the context of epigenomic rewiring caused by H3 mutations and the subsequent oncogenic interplay with transcriptional signaling pathways co-opted from developmental programs that ultimately leads to gliomagenesis. Understanding how transcriptional and epigenetic alterations synergize in each cellular context in these tumors could allow the identification of new Achilles’ heels, thereby highlighting new levers to improve their therapeutic management.
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Chen YJ, Luo SN, Wu H, Zhang NP, Dong L, Liu TT, Liang L, Shen XZ. IRF-2 inhibits cancer proliferation by promoting AMER-1 transcription in human gastric cancer. J Transl Med 2022; 20:68. [PMID: 35115027 PMCID: PMC8812234 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03275-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interferon regulatory factor 2 (IRF-2) acts as an anti-oncogene in gastric cancer (GC); however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. METHODS This study determined the expression of IRF-2 in GC tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and explored the predictive value of IRF-2 for the prognoses of GC patients. Cell function and xenograft tumor growth experiments in nude mice were performed to test tumor proliferation ability, both in vitro and in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) assay was used to verify the direct target of IRF-2. RESULTS We found that IRF-2 expression was downregulated in GC tissues and was negatively correlated with the prognoses of GC patients. IRF-2 negatively affected GC cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. ChIP-Seq assay showed that IRF-2 could directly activate AMER-1 transcription and regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which was validated using IHC, in both tissue microarray and xenografted tumor tissues, western blot analysis, and cell function experiments. CONCLUSIONS Increased expression of IRF-2 can inhibit tumor growth and affect the prognoses of patients by directly regulating AMER-1 transcription in GC and inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jie Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Neng Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning-Ping Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao-Tao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Liang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xi-Zhong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, NO. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
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11
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The Adenoviral E1B-55k Protein Present in HEK293 Cells Mediates Abnormal Accumulation of Key WNT Signaling Proteins in Large Cytoplasmic Aggregates. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121920. [PMID: 34946869 PMCID: PMC8701144 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
HEK293 cells are one of the most widely used cell lines in research, and HEK293 cells are frequently used as an in vitro model for studying the WNT signaling pathway. The HEK293 cell line was originally established by transfection of human embryonic kidney cells with sheared adenovirus 5 DNA, and it is known that that HEK293 cells stably express the adenoviral E1A and E1B-55k proteins. Here, we show that HEK293 cells display an unexpected distribution of key components of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway where AXIN1, APC, DVL2 and tankyrase are all co-localized in large spherical cytoplasmic aggregates. The cytoplasmic aggregates are enclosed by a narrow layer of the adenoviral E1B-55k protein. The reduction of E1B-55k protein levels leads to the disappearance of the cytoplasmic aggregates thus corroborating an essential role of the E1B-55k protein in mediating the formation of the aggregates. Furthermore, HEK293 cells with reduced E1B-55k protein levels display reduced levels of transcriptional activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling upon stimulation by the Wnt3A agonist. The demonstrated influence of the E1B-55k protein on the cellular localization of WNT/β-catenin signaling components and on transcriptional regulation of WNT/β-catenin signaling asks for caution in the interpretation of data derived from the HEK293 cell line.
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12
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Tran KT, Le VS, Dao LTM, Nguyen HK, Mai AK, Nguyen HT, Ngo MD, Tran QA, Nguyen LT. Novel findings from family-based exome sequencing for children with biliary atresia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21815. [PMID: 34750413 PMCID: PMC8575792 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01148-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive inflammation and fibrosis of the biliary tree characterized by the obstruction of bile flow, which results in liver failure, scarring and cirrhosis. This study aimed to explore the elusive aetiology of BA by conducting whole exome sequencing for 41 children with BA and their parents (35 trios, including 1 family with 2 BA-diagnosed children and 5 child-mother cases). We exclusively identified and validated a total of 28 variants (17 X-linked, 6 de novo and 5 homozygous) in 25 candidate genes from our BA cohort. These variants were among the 10% most deleterious and had a low minor allele frequency against the employed databases: Kinh Vietnamese (KHV), GnomAD and 1000 Genome Project. Interestingly, AMER1, INVS and OCRL variants were found in unrelated probands and were first reported in a BA cohort. Liver specimens and blood samples showed identical variants, suggesting that somatic variants were unlikely to occur during morphogenesis. Consistent with earlier attempts, this study implicated genetic heterogeneity and non-Mendelian inheritance of BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien Trung Tran
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Vinh Sy Le
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
- University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University Hanoi, 144 Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Lan Thi Mai Dao
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huyen Khanh Nguyen
- Bioequivalence Center, National Institute of Drug Quality Control, 11/157 Bang B, Hoang Mai District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Kieu Mai
- Vinmec International Hospital, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ha Thi Nguyen
- Vinmec International Hospital, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Minh Duy Ngo
- Vinmec International Hospital, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Quynh Anh Tran
- Vietnam National Children's Hospital, 18/879 La Thanh, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Liem Thanh Nguyen
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam
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13
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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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14
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Cook JH, Melloni GEM, Gulhan DC, Park PJ, Haigis KM. The origins and genetic interactions of KRAS mutations are allele- and tissue-specific. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1808. [PMID: 33753749 PMCID: PMC7985210 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22125-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutational activation of KRAS promotes the initiation and progression of cancers, especially in the colorectum, pancreas, lung, and blood plasma, with varying prevalence of specific activating missense mutations. Although epidemiological studies connect specific alleles to clinical outcomes, the mechanisms underlying the distinct clinical characteristics of mutant KRAS alleles are unclear. Here, we analyze 13,492 samples from these four tumor types to examine allele- and tissue-specific genetic properties associated with oncogenic KRAS mutations. The prevalence of known mutagenic mechanisms partially explains the observed spectrum of KRAS activating mutations. However, there are substantial differences between the observed and predicted frequencies for many alleles, suggesting that biological selection underlies the tissue-specific frequencies of mutant alleles. Consistent with experimental studies that have identified distinct signaling properties associated with each mutant form of KRAS, our genetic analysis reveals that each KRAS allele is associated with a distinct tissue-specific comutation network. Moreover, we identify tissue-specific genetic dependencies associated with specific mutant KRAS alleles. Overall, this analysis demonstrates that the genetic interactions of oncogenic KRAS mutations are allele- and tissue-specific, underscoring the complexity that drives their clinical consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua H Cook
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giorgio E M Melloni
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Doga C Gulhan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter J Park
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kevin M Haigis
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Harvard Digestive Disease Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Zhu C, Ho YJ, Salomao MA, Dapito DH, Bartolome A, Schwabe RF, Lee JS, Lowe SW, Pajvani UB. Notch activity characterizes a common hepatocellular carcinoma subtype with unique molecular and clinicopathologic features. J Hepatol 2021; 74:613-626. [PMID: 33038431 PMCID: PMC7897246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The hepatocyte Notch pathway is a pathogenic factor in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-associated fibrosis, but its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is less well defined. Herein, we aimed to characterize the molecular and clinical features of Notch-active human HCC, and to investigate the mechanisms by which Notch affects NASH-driven HCC. METHODS Using a 14-gene Notch score, we stratified human HCCs from multiple comprehensively profiled datasets. We performed gene set enrichment analyses to compare Notch-active HCCs with published HCC subtype signatures. Next, we sorted Notch-active hepatocytes from Notch reporter mice for RNA sequencing and characterized Notch-active tumors in an HCC model combining a carcinogen and a NASH-inducing diet. We used genetic mouse models to manipulate hepatocyte Notch to investigate the sufficiency and necessity of Notch in NASH-driven tumorigenesis. RESULTS Notch-active signatures were found in ~30% of human HCCs that transcriptionally resemble cholangiocarcinoma-like HCC, exhibiting a lack of activating CTNNB1 (β-catenin) mutations and a generally poor prognosis. Endogenous Notch activation in hepatocytes is associated with repressed β-catenin signaling and hepatic metabolic functions, in lieu of increased interactions with the extracellular matrix in NASH. Constitutive hepatocyte Notch activation is sufficient to induce β-catenin-inactive HCC in mice with NASH. Notch and β-catenin show a pattern of mutual exclusivity in carcinogen-induced HCC; in this mouse model, chronic blockade of Notch led to β-catenin-dependent tumor development. CONCLUSIONS Notch activity characterizes a distinct HCC molecular subtype with unique histology and prognosis. Sustained Notch signaling in chronic liver diseases can drive tumor formation without acquiring specific genomic driver mutations. LAY SUMMARY The Notch signaling pathway is known to be involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. However, its role in liver cancer has not been well defined. Herein, we show that Notch activity is increased in a subset of liver cancers and is associated with poor outcomes. We also used a mouse model to show that aberrant Notch activity can drive cancer progression in obese mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyu Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA;,Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yu-Jui Ho
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marcela A. Salomao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ju-Seog Lee
- Department of Systems Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Scott W. Lowe
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA;,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Utpal B. Pajvani
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA;,Corresponding author: Utpal B. Pajvani, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, 1150 St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032. ; fax: (212) 851-5493
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16
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Disciglio V, Forte G, Fasano C, Sanese P, Lepore Signorile M, De Marco K, Grossi V, Cariola F, Simone C. APC Splicing Mutations Leading to In-Frame Exon 12 or Exon 13 Skipping Are Rare Events in FAP Pathogenesis and Define the Clinical Outcome. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12030353. [PMID: 33670833 PMCID: PMC7997234 DOI: 10.3390/genes12030353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is caused by germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene APC. To date, nearly 2000 APC mutations have been described in FAP, most of which are predicted to result in truncated protein products. Mutations leading to aberrant APC splicing have rarely been reported. Here, we characterized a novel germline heterozygous splice donor site mutation in APC exon 12 (NM_000038.5: c.1621_1626+7del) leading to exon 12 skipping in an Italian family with the attenuated FAP (AFAP) phenotype. Moreover, we performed a literature meta-analysis of APC splicing mutations. We found that 119 unique APC splicing mutations, including the one described here, have been reported in FAP patients, 69 of which have been characterized at the mRNA level. Among these, only a small proportion (9/69) results in an in-frame protein, with four mutations causing skipping of exon 12 or 13 with loss of armadillo repeat 2 (ARM2) and 3 (ARM3), and five mutations leading to skipping of exon 5, 7, 8, or (partially) 9 with loss of regions not encompassing known functional domains. The APC splicing mutations causing skipping of exon 12 or 13 considered in this study cluster with the AFAP phenotype and reveal a potential molecular mechanism of pathogenesis in FAP disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Disciglio
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (C.S.)
| | - Giovanna Forte
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Candida Fasano
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Paola Sanese
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Martina Lepore Signorile
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Katia De Marco
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Valentina Grossi
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Filomena Cariola
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Cristiano Simone
- Medical Genetics, National Institute of Gastroenterology “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.F.); (C.F.); (P.S.); (M.L.S.); (K.D.M.); (V.G.); (F.C.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology (DIMO), Medical Genetics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (C.S.)
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17
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Wilms tumor in patients with osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 29:396-401. [PMID: 32879452 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-00718-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline pathogenic variants in AMER1 cause osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis (OSCS: OMIM 300373), an X-linked sclerosing bone disorder. Female heterozygotes exhibit metaphyseal striations in long bones, macrocephaly, cleft palate, and, occasionally, learning disability. Male hemizygotes typically manifest the condition as fetal or neonatal death. Somatically acquired variants in AMER1 are found in neoplastic tissue in 15-30% of patients with Wilms tumor; however, to date, only one individual with OSCS has been reported with a Wilms tumor. Here we present four cases of Wilms tumor in unrelated individuals with OSCS, including the single previously published case. We also report the first case of bilateral Wilms tumor in a patient with OSCS. Tumor tissue analysis showed no clear pattern of histological subtypes. In Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, which has a known predisposition to Wilms tumor development, clinical protocols have been developed for tumor surveillance. In the absence of further evidence, we propose a similar protocol for patients with OSCS to be instituted as an initial precautionary approach to tumor surveillance. Further evidence is needed to refine this protocol and to evaluate the possibility of development of other neoplasms later in life, in patients with OSCS.
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18
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Liu Y, Chen H, Dong P, Xie G, Zhou Y, Ma Y, Yuan X, Yang J, Han L, Chen L, Shen L. KIF23 activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through direct interaction with Amer1 in gastric cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:8372-8396. [PMID: 32365332 PMCID: PMC7244035 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of the kinesin family member 23 (KIF23) has been verified in gastric cancer (GC) and its upregulation contributes to cell proliferation. Even though, the role of KIF23 has not been fully elucidated in GC, and the mechanisms of KIF23 as an oncogene remain unknown. To further identify its potential role in GC, we analyzed gene expression data from GC patients in GEO and TCGA datasets. KIF23 was upregulated in GC, and increased expression of KIF23 correlated with poor prognosis. Importantly, KIF23 inhibition not only suppressed GC cell proliferation, tumorigenesis, but also migration and invasion, and arrested the cell cycle in the G2/M phase. Mechanistic investigations confirmed that KIF23 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by directly interacting with APC membrane recruitment 1 (Amer1). Furthermore, KIF23 exhibited competitive binding with Amer1 to block the association of Amer1 with adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), thus relocating Amer1 from the membrane and cytoplasm to the nucleus and attenuating the ability of Amer1 to negatively regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling, resulting in activation of this signaling pathway. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that KIF23 promoted GC cell proliferation by directly interacting with Amer1 and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ping Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Guohua Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yunlan Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiangliang Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Junyao Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Li Han
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lisong Shen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
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19
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Su S, Raouf B, He X, Cai N, Li X, Yu J, Li J, Yu F, Wang M, Tang Y. Genome Wide Analysis for Growth at Two Growth Stages in A New Fast-Growing Common Carp Strain (Cyprinus carpio L.). Sci Rep 2020; 10:7259. [PMID: 32350307 PMCID: PMC7190712 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64037-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to identify candidate genes or loci associated with growth performance of the newly established common carp strain, Xinlong, we conducted a genome-wide association analysis using 2b-RAD technology on 123 individuals. We constructed two sets of libraries associated with growth-related parameters (weight, length, width and depth) measured at two different grow-out stages. Among the 413,059 SNPs identified using SOAP SNP calling, 147,131 were tested for GWAS after quality filtering. Finally, 39 overlapping SNPs, assigned to four genomic locations, were associated with growth traits in two stages. These loci were assigned to functional classes related to immune response, response to stress, neurogenesis, cholesterol metabolism and development, and proliferation and differentiation of cells. By overlapping results of Plink and EMMAX analyses, we identified three genes: TOX, PLK2 and CD163 (both methods P < 0.05). Our study results could be used for marker-assisted selection to further improve the growth of the Xinlong strain, and illustrate that largely different sets of genes drive the growth of carp in the early and late grow-out stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyan Su
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture; Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, 214081, PR China. .,Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.
| | - Bouzoualegh Raouf
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture; Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.,Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Xinjin He
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture; Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.,College of Animal science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, PR China
| | - Nana Cai
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture; Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Xinyuan Li
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Juhua Yu
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - JianLin Li
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Fan Yu
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Meiyao Wang
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Yongkai Tang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture; Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, 214081, PR China. .,Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China.
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20
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García-Aznar JM, Ramírez N, De Uña D, Santiago E, Monserrat L. Whole Exome Sequencing Provides the Correct Diagnosis in a Case of Osteopathia Striata with Cranial Sclerosis: Case Report of a Novel Frameshift Mutation in AMER1. J Pediatr Genet 2020; 10:139-146. [PMID: 33996185 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1710058] [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: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The diagnosis of rare diseases with multisystem manifestations can constitute a difficult process that delays the determination of the underlying cause. Whole exome sequencing (WES) provides a suitable option to examine multiple target genes associated with several disorders that display common features. In this study, we report the case of a female patient suspected of having Sotos syndrome. Screening for the initially selected genes, considering Sotos syndrome and Sotos-like disorders, did not identify any pathogenic variants that could explain the phenotype. The extended analysis, which considered all genes in the exome associated with features consistent with those shown by the studied patient, revealed a novel frameshift variant in the AMER1 gene, responsible for osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis. WES analysis and an updated revision of previously reported disease-causing mutations, proved useful to reach an accurate diagnosis and guide further examination to identify critical abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noelia Ramírez
- Pediatric Division, Hospital Virgen de Altagracia, Manzanares, Spain
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21
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Huybrechts Y, Mortier G, Boudin E, Van Hul W. WNT Signaling and Bone: Lessons From Skeletal Dysplasias and Disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:165. [PMID: 32328030 PMCID: PMC7160326 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal dysplasias are a diverse group of heritable diseases affecting bone and cartilage growth. Throughout the years, the molecular defect underlying many of the diseases has been identified. These identifications led to novel insights in the mechanisms regulating bone and cartilage growth and homeostasis. One of the pathways that is clearly important during skeletal development and bone homeostasis is the Wingless and int-1 (WNT) signaling pathway. So far, three different WNT signaling pathways have been described, which are all activated by binding of the WNT ligands to the Frizzled (FZD) receptors. In this review, we discuss the skeletal disorders that are included in the latest nosology of skeletal disorders and that are caused by genetic defects involving the WNT signaling pathway. The number of skeletal disorders caused by defects in WNT signaling genes and the clinical phenotype associated with these disorders illustrate the importance of the WNT signaling pathway during skeletal development as well as later on in life to maintain bone mass. The knowledge gained through the identification of the genes underlying these monogenic conditions is used for the identification of novel therapeutic targets. For example, the genes underlying disorders with altered bone mass are all involved in the canonical WNT signaling pathway. Consequently, targeting this pathway is one of the major strategies to increase bone mass in patients with osteoporosis. In addition to increasing the insights in the pathways regulating skeletal development and bone homeostasis, knowledge of rare skeletal dysplasias can also be used to predict possible adverse effects of these novel drug targets. Therefore, this review gives an overview of the skeletal and extra-skeletal phenotype of the different skeletal disorders linked to the WNT signaling pathway.
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22
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Große A, Perner B, Naumann U, Englert C. Zebrafish Wtx is a negative regulator of Wnt signaling but is dispensable for embryonic development and organ homeostasis. Dev Dyn 2019; 248:866-881. [PMID: 31290212 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The X-chromosomally linked gene WTX is a human disease gene and a member of the AMER family. Mutations in WTX are found in Wilms tumor, a form of pediatric kidney cancer and in patients suffering from OSCS (Osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis), a sclerosing bone disorder. Functional data suggest WTX to be an inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Deletion of Wtx in mouse leads to perinatal death, impeding the analysis of its physiological role. RESULTS To gain insights into the function of Wtx in development and homeostasis we have used zebrafish as a model and performed both knockdown and knockout studies using morpholinos and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), respectively. Wtx knockdown led to increased Wnt activity and embryonic dorsalization. Also, wtx mutants showed a transient upregulation of Wnt target genes in the context of caudal fin regeneration. Surprisingly, however, wtx as well as wtx/amer2/amer3 triple mutants developed normally, were fertile and did not show any anomalies in organ maintenance. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that members of the zebrafish wtx/amer gene family, while sharing a partially overlapping expression pattern do not compensate for each other. This observation demonstrates a remarkable robustness during development and regeneration in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Große
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Birgit Perner
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Uta Naumann
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Christoph Englert
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany.,Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
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23
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Aghabozorgi AS, Bahreyni A, Soleimani A, Bahrami A, Khazaei M, Ferns GA, Avan A, Hassanian SM. Role of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene mutations in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer; current status and perspectives. Biochimie 2018; 157:64-71. [PMID: 30414835 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common forms of solid tumors in the world with high rates of mortality and morbidity. Most cases of CRCs are initiated by inactivating mutations in a tumor suppressor gene, adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), leading to constitutive activation of the Wnt signaling pathway. This review summarizes the roles of somatic and germline mutations of the APC gene in hereditary as well as sporadic forms of CRC. We also discuss the diagnostic and prognostic value of the APC gene in the pathogenesis of CRC for a better understanding of CRC disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirsaeed Sabeti Aghabozorgi
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran; Student Research Committee, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Bahreyni
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Atena Soleimani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Afsane Bahrami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex, BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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24
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Abstract
The group of sclerosing bone dysplasia's is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of rare bone disorders which, according to the latest Nosology and classification of genetic skeletal disorders (2015), can be subdivided in three subgroups; the neonatal osteosclerotic dysplasias, the osteopetroses and related disorders and the other sclerosing bone disorders. Here, we give an overview of the most important radiographic and clinical symptoms, the underlying genetic defect and potential treatment options of the different sclerosing dysplasias included in these subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eveline Boudin
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Hul
- Center of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
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25
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Enomoto Y, Tsurusaki Y, Harada N, Aida N, Kurosawa K. Novel AMER1 frameshift mutation in a girl with osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis. Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 2018; 58:145-146. [PMID: 28990699 DOI: 10.1111/cga.12258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Enomoto
- Clinical Research Institute, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Tsurusaki
- Clinical Research Institute, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Noriaki Harada
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Noriko Aida
- Department of Radiology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenji Kurosawa
- Division of Medical Genetics, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
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26
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Dubbink HJ, Hollink IHIM, Avenca Valente C, Wang W, Liu P, Doukas M, van Noesel MM, Dinjens WNM, Wagner A, Smits R. A novel tissue-based ß-catenin gene and immunohistochemical analysis to exclude familial adenomatous polyposis among children with hepatoblastoma tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e26991. [PMID: 29446530 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a central role in the pathogenesis of most hepatoblastomas (HBs), that is, up to 60-80% carry activating CTNNB1 mutations. HBs can however also be the first manifestation of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). As this is a severe disease, it is important for the patient and related family members to firmly exclude FAP at an early stage. Current diagnosis largely depends on APC germline mutation detection on genomic DNA, which is associated with 10-20% false-negative results. Here, we establish and validate a tissue-based β-catenin gene and immunohistochemical analysis, which complements germline mutation screening to exclude the diagnosis of FAP among HB patients. METHODS Tumor tissues of 18 HB patients, including three FAP cases were subjected to CTNNB1 exon 3 mutational analysis and immunohistochemistry comparing staining patterns for total and exon 3 specific β-catenin antibodies. RESULTS Our novel tissue-based method reliably identified all three FAP patients. Their tumors were characterized by a wild-type exon 3 sequence and a comparable nuclear staining for both antibodies. In contrast, the non-FAP tumors carried missense CTNNB1 mutations combined with a clearly reduced staining for the exon 3 antibody, or complete loss of staining in case of lesions with exon 3 deletions. CONCLUSION We have successfully established and validated a novel ß-catenin gene and immunohistochemical diagnostic method, which, when combined with routine germline DNA testing, allows the exclusion of the diagnosis of FAP among HB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrikus J Dubbink
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iris H I M Hollink
- Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carolina Avenca Valente
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pengyu Liu
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michail Doukas
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Max M van Noesel
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Winand N M Dinjens
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anja Wagner
- Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Smits
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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27
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The group of sclerosing bone disorders encompasses a variety of disorders all marked by increased bone mass. In this review, we give an overview of the genetic causes of this heterogeneous group of disorders and briefly touch upon the value of these findings for the development of novel therapeutic agents. RECENT FINDINGS Advances in the next-generation sequencing technologies are accelerating the molecular dissection of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying skeletal dysplasias. Throughout the years, the genetic cause of these disorders has been extensively studied which resulted in the identification of a variety of disease-causing genes and pathways that are involved in bone formation by osteoblasts, bone resorption by osteoclasts, or both processes. Due to this rapidly increasing knowledge, the insights into the regulatory mechanisms of bone metabolism are continuously improving resulting in the identification of novel therapeutic targets for disorders with reduced bone mass and increased bone fragility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphaël De Ridder
- Centre of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp & University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Eveline Boudin
- Centre of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp & University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Geert Mortier
- Centre of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp & University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Hul
- Centre of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp & University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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28
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Comai G, Boutet A, Tanneberger K, Massa F, Rocha AS, Charlet A, Panzolini C, Jian Motamedi F, Brommage R, Hans W, Funck-Brentano T, Hrabe de Angelis M, Hartmann C, Cohen-Solal M, Behrens J, Schedl A. Genetic and Molecular Insights Into Genotype-Phenotype Relationships in Osteopathia Striata With Cranial Sclerosis (OSCS) Through the Analysis of Novel Mouse Wtx Mutant Alleles. J Bone Miner Res 2018; 33:875-887. [PMID: 29329488 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The X-linked WTX/AMER1 protein constitutes an important component of the β-catenin destruction complex that can both enhance and suppress canonical β-catenin signaling. Somatic mutations in WTX/AMER1 have been found in a proportion of the pediatric kidney cancer Wilms' tumor. By contrast, germline mutations cause the severe sclerosing bone dysplasia osteopathia striata congenita with cranial sclerosis (OSCS), a condition usually associated with fetal or perinatal lethality in male patients. Here we address the developmental and molecular function of WTX by generating two novel mouse alleles. We show that in addition to the previously reported skeletal abnormalities, loss of Wtx causes severe midline fusion defects including cleft palate and ectopic synostosis at the base of the skull. By contrast, deletion of the C-terminal part of the protein results in only mild developmental abnormalities permitting survival beyond birth. Adult analysis, however, revealed skeletal defects including changed skull morphology and an increased whole-body bone density, resembling a subgroup of male patients carrying a milder, survivable phenotype. Molecular analysis in vitro showed that while β-catenin fails to co-immunoprecipitate with the truncated protein, partial recruitment appears to be achieved in an indirect manner using AXIN/AXIN2 as a molecular bridge. Taken together our analysis provides a novel model for WTX-caused bone diseases and explains on the molecular level how truncation mutations in this gene may retain some of WTX-protein functions. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenda Comai
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France.,Current Address: Dept. of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, Pasteur Institute, CNRS UMR3738, Paris, France
| | - Agnès Boutet
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France.,Current Address: CNRS, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6, UMR8227, Translation, Cell Cycle and Development Group, Station Biologique, F-29688 Roscoff, France
| | - Kristina Tanneberger
- Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nuremberg, Nikolaus Fiebiger Zentrum, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Filippo Massa
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
| | - Ana-Sofia Rocha
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
| | - Aurelie Charlet
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
| | - Clara Panzolini
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
| | - Fariba Jian Motamedi
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
| | - Robert Brommage
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hans
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Funck-Brentano
- INSERM UMR-1132, Biologie de l'os et du cartilage (BIOSCAR), Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Martin Hrabe de Angelis
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,Experimental Genetics, School of Life Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Christine Hartmann
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - Martine Cohen-Solal
- INSERM UMR-1132, Biologie de l'os et du cartilage (BIOSCAR), Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jürgen Behrens
- Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nuremberg, Nikolaus Fiebiger Zentrum, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Schedl
- Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Nice, France
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29
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Slattery ML, Mullany LE, Sakoda LC, Samowitz WS, Wolff RK, Stevens JR, Herrick JS. Expression of Wnt-signaling pathway genes and their associations with miRNAs in colorectal cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 9:6075-6085. [PMID: 29464056 PMCID: PMC5814196 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt-signaling pathway functions in regulating cell growth and thus is involved in the carcinogenic process of several cancers, including colorectal cancer. We tested the hypothesis that multiple genes in this signaling pathway are dysregulated and that miRNAs are associated with these dysregulated genes. We used data from 217 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases to evaluate differences in Wnt-signaling pathway gene expression between paired CRC and normal mucosa and identify miRNAs that are associated with these genes. Gene expression data from RNA-Seq and miRNA expression data from Agilent Human miRNA Microarray V19.0 were analyzed. We focused on genes most strongly associated with CRC (fold change (FC) of >1.5 or <0.67) and that were statistically significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Of the 138 Wnt-signaling pathway genes examined, 27 were significantly down-regulated (FC<0.67) and 32 genes were significantly up-regulated (FC>1.50) after adjusting for multiple comparisons. Thirteen of the 66 Wnt-signaling genes that were differentially expressed in CRC tumors were associated with differential expression of miRNAs. A total of 93 miRNA:mRNA associations were detected for these 13 genes. Of these 93 associations, 36 miRNA seed-region matches were observed, suggesting that miRNAs have both direct and indirect effects on Wnt-signaling pathway genes. In summary, our data supports the hypothesis that the Wnt-signaling pathway is dysregulated in CRC and suggest that miRNAs may importantly influence that dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha L Slattery
- Department of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lila E Mullany
- Department of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lori C Sakoda
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Wade S Samowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Roger K Wolff
- Department of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - John R Stevens
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
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30
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Costantini A, Kekäläinen P, Mäkitie RE, Mäkitie O. High bone mass due to novel LRP5 and AMER1 mutations. Eur J Med Genet 2017; 60:675-679. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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31
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Boutet A, Comai G, Charlet A, Jian Motamedi F, Dhib H, Bandiera R, Schedl A. A knock-in mouse line conditionally expressing the tumor suppressor WTX/AMER1. Genesis 2017; 55. [PMID: 28960679 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
WTX/AMER1 is an important developmental regulator, mutations in which have been identified in a proportion of patients suffering from the renal neoplasm Wilms' tumor and in the bone malformation syndrome Osteopathia Striata with Cranial Sclerosis (OSCS). Its cellular functions appear complex and the protein can be found at the membrane, within the cytoplasm and the nucleus. To understand its developmental and cellular function an allelic series for Wtx in the mouse is crucial. Whereas mice carrying a conditional knock out allele for Wtx have been previously reported, a gain-of-function mouse model that would allow studying the molecular, cellular and developmental role of Wtx is still missing. Here we describe the generation of a novel mouse strain that permits the conditional activation of WTX expression. Wtx fused to GFP was introduced downstream a stop cassette flanked by loxP sites into the Rosa26 locus by gene targeting. Ectopic WTX expression is reported after crosses with several Cre transgenic mice in different embryonic tissues. Further, functionality of the fusion protein was demonstrated in the context of a Wtx null allele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnès Boutet
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
| | - Glenda Comai
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
| | - Aurélie Charlet
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
| | | | - Haroun Dhib
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
| | - Roberto Bandiera
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
| | - Andreas Schedl
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1091, CNRS UMR 7277, iBV, France
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32
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Thorvaldsen TE, Pedersen NM, Wenzel EM, Stenmark H. Differential Roles of AXIN1 and AXIN2 in Tankyrase Inhibitor-Induced Formation of Degradasomes and β-Catenin Degradation. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170508. [PMID: 28107521 PMCID: PMC5249069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the tankyrase enzymes (TNKS1 and TNKS2) has recently been shown to induce highly dynamic assemblies of β-catenin destruction complex components known as degradasomes, which promote degradation of β-catenin and reduced Wnt signaling activity in colorectal cancer cells. AXIN1 and AXIN2/Conductin, the rate-limiting factors for the stability and function of endogenous destruction complexes, are stabilized upon TNKS inhibition due to abrogated degradation of AXIN by the proteasome. Since the role of AXIN1 versus AXIN2 as scaffolding proteins in the Wnt signaling pathway still remains incompletely understood, we sought to elucidate their relative contribution in the formation of degradasomes, as these protein assemblies most likely represent the morphological and functional correlates of endogenous β-catenin destruction complexes. In SW480 colorectal cancer cells treated with the tankyrase inhibitor (TNKSi) G007-LK we found that AXIN1 was not required for degradasome formation. In contrast, the formation of degradasomes as well as their capacity to degrade β-catenin were considerably impaired in G007-LK-treated cells depleted of AXIN2. These findings give novel insights into differential functional roles of AXIN1 versus AXIN2 in the β-catenin destruction complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tor Espen Thorvaldsen
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nina Marie Pedersen
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eva Maria Wenzel
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail: (EMW); (HS)
| | - Harald Stenmark
- Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail: (EMW); (HS)
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Gao FJ, Shi L, Hines T, Hebbar S, Neufeld KL, Smith DS. Insulin signaling regulates a functional interaction between adenomatous polyposis coli and cytoplasmic dynein. Mol Biol Cell 2017; 28:587-599. [PMID: 28057765 PMCID: PMC5328618 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e16-07-0555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is linked to an increased risk for colorectal cancer, but the mechanistic underpinnings of this clinically important effect are unclear. Here we describe an interaction between the microtubule motor cytoplasmic dynein, the adenomatous polyposis coli tumor suppressor protein (APC), and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), which could shed light on this issue. GSK-3β is perhaps best known for glycogen regulation, being inhibited downstream in an insulin-signaling pathway. However, the kinase is also important in many other processes. Mutations in APC that disrupt the regulation of β-catenin by GSK-3β cause colorectal cancer in humans. Of interest, both APC and GSK-3β interact with microtubules and cellular membranes. We recently demonstrated that dynein is a GSK-3β substrate and that inhibition of GSK-3β promotes dynein-dependent transport. We now report that dynein stimulation in intestinal cells in response to acute insulin exposure (or GSK-3β inhibition) is blocked by tumor-promoting isoforms of APC that reduce an interaction between wild-type APC and dynein. We propose that under normal conditions, insulin decreases dynein binding to APC to stimulate minus end-directed transport, which could modulate endocytic and secretory systems in intestinal cells. Mutations in APC likely impair the ability to respond appropriately to insulin signaling. This is exciting because it has the potential to be a contributing factor in the development of colorectal cancer in patients with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng J Gao
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21025
| | - Liang Shi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208
| | - Timothy Hines
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208
| | - Sachin Hebbar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Kristi L Neufeld
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045
| | - Deanna S Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208
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Structures of the APC-ARM domain in complexes with discrete Amer1/WTX fragments reveal that it uses a consensus mode to recognize its binding partners. Cell Discov 2015; 1:15016. [PMID: 27462415 PMCID: PMC4860839 DOI: 10.1038/celldisc.2015.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor APC employs its conserved armadillo repeat (ARM) domain to recognize many of its binding partners, including Amer1/WTX, which is mutated in Wilms' tumor and bone overgrowth syndrome. The APC–Amer1 complex has important roles in regulating Wnt signaling and cell adhesion. Three sites A1, A2, and A3 of Amer1 have been reported to mediate its interaction with APC-ARM. In this study, crystal structures of APC–ARM in complexes with Amer1-A1, -A2, and -A4, which is newly identified in this work, were determined. Combined with our GST pull-down, yeast two-hybrid, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) assay results using mutants of APC and Amer1 interface residues, our structures demonstrate that Amer1-A1, -A2, and -A4, as well as other APC-binding proteins such as Asef and Sam68, all employ a common recognition pattern to associate with APC–ARM. In contrast, Amer1-A3 binds to the C-terminal side of APC–ARM through a bipartite interaction mode. Composite mutations on either APC or Amer1 disrupting all four interfaces abrogated their association in cultured cells and impaired the membrane recruitment of APC by Amer1. Our study thus comprehensively elucidated the recognition mechanism between APC and Amer1, and revealed a consensus recognition sequence employed by various APC–ARM binding partners.
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Sanz-Pamplona R, Lopez-Doriga A, Paré-Brunet L, Lázaro K, Bellido F, Alonso MH, Aussó S, Guinó E, Beltrán S, Castro-Giner F, Gut M, Sanjuan X, Closa A, Cordero D, Morón-Duran FD, Soriano A, Salazar R, Valle L, Moreno V. Exome Sequencing Reveals AMER1 as a Frequently Mutated Gene in Colorectal Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:4709-18. [PMID: 26071483 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-0159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Somatic mutations occur at early stages of adenoma and accumulate throughout colorectal cancer progression. The aim of this study was to characterize the mutational landscape of stage II tumors and to search for novel recurrent mutations likely implicated in colorectal cancer tumorigenesis. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The exomic DNA of 42 stage II, microsatellite-stable colon tumors and their paired mucosae were sequenced. Other molecular data available in the discovery dataset [gene expression, methylation, and copy number variations (CNV)] were used to further characterize these tumors. Additional datasets comprising 553 colorectal cancer samples were used to validate the discovered mutations. RESULTS As a result, 4,886 somatic single-nucleotide variants (SNV) were found. Almost all SNVs were private changes, with few mutations shared by more than one tumor, thus revealing tumor-specific mutational landscapes. Nevertheless, these diverse mutations converged into common cellular pathways, such as cell cycle or apoptosis. Among this mutational heterogeneity, variants resulting in early stop codons in the AMER1 (also known as FAM123B or WTX) gene emerged as recurrent mutations in colorectal cancer. Losses of AMER1 by other mechanisms apart from mutations such as methylation and copy number aberrations were also found. Tumors lacking this tumor suppressor gene exhibited a mesenchymal phenotype characterized by inhibition of the canonical Wnt pathway. CONCLUSIONS In silico and experimental validation in independent datasets confirmed the existence of functional mutations in AMER1 in approximately 10% of analyzed colorectal cancer tumors. Moreover, these tumors exhibited a characteristic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Sanz-Pamplona
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Lopez-Doriga
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Paré-Brunet
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kira Lázaro
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Bellido
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Henar Alonso
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susanna Aussó
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisabet Guinó
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Beltrán
- Centre Nacional d'Anàlisi Genòmica (CNAG), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Marta Gut
- Centre Nacional d'Anàlisi Genòmica (CNAG), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Sanjuan
- Pathology Service, University Hospital Bellvitge (HUB-IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adria Closa
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Cordero
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco D Morón-Duran
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Soriano
- Gastroenterology Service, University Hospital Bellvitge (HUB-IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramón Salazar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain. Translational Research Laboratory, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Valle
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victor Moreno
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain. Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.
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Bernkopf DB, Hadjihannas MV, Behrens J. Negative-feedback regulation of the Wnt pathway by conductin/axin2 involves insensitivity to upstream signalling. J Cell Sci 2014; 128:33-9. [PMID: 25380820 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.159145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Axin and conductin (also known as axin2) are structurally related inhibitors of Wnt/β-catenin signalling that promote degradation of β-catenin. Whereas axin is constitutively expressed, conductin is a Wnt target gene implicated in Wnt negative-feedback regulation. Here, we show that axin and conductin differ in their functional interaction with the upstream Wnt pathway component Dvl. Conductin shows reduced binding to Dvl2 compared to axin, and degradation of β-catenin by conductin is only poorly blocked by Dvl2. We propose that insensitivity to Dvl is an important feature of the role of conductin as a negative-feedback regulator of Wnt signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic B Bernkopf
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Center, Chair of Experimental Medicine II, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Glückstr. 6, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michel V Hadjihannas
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Center, Chair of Experimental Medicine II, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Glückstr. 6, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jürgen Behrens
- Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Center, Chair of Experimental Medicine II, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Glückstr. 6, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Brauburger K, Akyildiz S, Ruppert JG, Graeb M, Bernkopf DB, Hadjihannas MV, Behrens J. Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) membrane recruitment 3, a member of the APC membrane recruitment family of APC-binding proteins, is a positive regulator of Wnt-β-catenin signalling. FEBS J 2013; 281:787-801. [PMID: 24251807 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Revised: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) membrane recruitment (Amer) family proteins Amer1/Wilms tumour gene on the X chromosome and Amer2 are binding partners of the APC tumour suppressor protein, and act as negative regulators in the Wnt signalling cascade. So far, nothing has been known about the third member of the family, Amer3. Here we show that Amer3 binds to the armadillo repeat domain of APC, similarly to Amer1 and Amer2. Amer3 also binds to the Wnt pathway regulator conductin/axin2. Furthermore, we identified Amer1 as binding partner of Amer3. Whereas Amer1 and Amer2 are linked to the plasma membrane by an N-terminal membrane localization domain, Amer3 lacks this domain. Amer3 localizes to the cytoplasm and nucleus of epithelial cells, and this is dependent on specific nuclear import and export sequences. Functionally, exogenous Amer3 enhances the expression of a β-catenin/T-cell factor-dependent reporter gene, and knockdown of endogenous Amer3 reduces Wnt target gene expression in colorectal cancer cells. Thus, Amer3 acts as an activator of Wnt signalling, in contrast to Amer1 and Amer2, which are inhibitors, suggesting a nonredundant role of Amer proteins in the regulation of this pathway. Our data, together with those of previous studies, provide a comprehensive picture of similarities and differences within the Amer protein family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Brauburger
- Nikolaus Fiebiger Centre for Molecular Medicine, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Kríz V, Pospíchalová V, Masek J, Kilander MBC, Slavík J, Tanneberger K, Schulte G, Machala M, Kozubík A, Behrens J, Bryja V. β-arrestin promotes Wnt-induced low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (Lrp6) phosphorylation via increased membrane recruitment of Amer1 protein. J Biol Chem 2013; 289:1128-41. [PMID: 24265322 PMCID: PMC3887180 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.498444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
β-Arrestin is a scaffold protein that regulates signal transduction by seven transmembrane-spanning receptors. Among other functions it is also critically required for Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction. In the present study we provide for the first time a mechanistic basis for the β-arrestin function in Wnt/β-catenin signaling. We demonstrate that β-arrestin is required for efficient Wnt3a-induced Lrp6 phosphorylation, a key event in downstream signaling. β-Arrestin regulates Lrp6 phosphorylation via a novel interaction with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2)-binding protein Amer1/WTX/Fam123b. Amer1 has been shown very recently to bridge Wnt-induced and Dishevelled-associated PtdIns(4,5)P2 production to the phosphorylation of Lrp6. Using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching we show here that β-arrestin is required for the Wnt3a-induced Amer1 membrane dynamics and downstream signaling. Finally, we show that β-arrestin interacts with PtdIns kinases PI4KIIα and PIP5KIβ. Importantly, cells lacking β-arrestin showed higher steady-state levels of the relevant PtdInsP and were unable to increase levels of these PtdInsP in response to Wnt3a. In summary, our data show that β-arrestins regulate Wnt3a-induced Lrp6 phosphorylation by the regulation of the membrane dynamics of Amer1. We propose that β-arrestins via their scaffolding function facilitate Amer1 interaction with PtdIns(4,5)P2, which is produced locally upon Wnt3a stimulation by β-arrestin- and Dishevelled-associated kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vítezslav Kríz
- From the Faculty of Science, Institute of Experimental Biology, Masaryk University, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
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Motor Function Deficits Following Chronic Prenatal Ethanol Exposure are Linked to Impairments in Insulin/IGF, Notch and Wnt Signaling in the Cerebellum. JOURNAL OF DIABETES & METABOLISM 2013; 4:238. [PMID: 25035811 PMCID: PMC4096945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is associated with deficits in cerebellar function that can persist through adolescence. Previous studies demonstrated striking inhibition of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling in ethanol-exposed cerebella. OBJECTIVES We sought to determine if FASD-induced impairments in motor function were associated with deficits in insulin/IGF signaling in juvenile cerebella. Given the growing evidence that insulin/IGF pathways cross-talk with Notch and Wnt to promote brain development and maturation; we also examined the integrity of canonical Wnt and Notch signaling networks in the brain following chronic prenatal ethanol exposure. METHODS Pregnant Long Evans rats were fed isocaloric liquid diets containing 0% or 24% ethanol by caloric content from gestation day 6 through delivery. Pups were subjected to rotarod testing on postnatal days (P) 15-16 and sacrificed on P30. Cerebella were used for molecular and biochemical analysis of insulin/IGF-1, canonical Wnt, and Notch signaling mechanisms. RESULTS Prenatal ethanol exposures impaired rotarod performance, inhibited signaling through insulin and IGF-1 receptors, IRS-1, and Akt, increased activation of GSK-3β, and broadly suppressed genes mediating the canonical Wnt and Notch networks. CONCLUSIONS Abnormalities in cerebellar function following chronic prenatal ethanol exposure are associated with inhibition of insulin/IGF, canonical Wnt, and Notch networks that cross-talk via GSK-3β. Effective therapeutic measures for FASD may require multi-pronged support of interrelated signaling networks that regulate brain development.
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Siesser PF, Motolese M, Walker MP, Goldfarb D, Gewain K, Yan F, Kulikauskas RM, Chien AJ, Wordeman L, Major MB. FAM123A binds to microtubules and inhibits the guanine nucleotide exchange factor ARHGEF2 to decrease actomyosin contractility. Sci Signal 2012; 5:ra64. [PMID: 22949735 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2002871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The FAM123 gene family comprises three members: FAM123A, the tumor suppressor WTX (also known as FAM123B), and FAM123C. WTX is required for normal development and causally contributes to human disease, in part through its regulation of β-catenin-dependent WNT signaling. The roles of FAM123A and FAM123C in signaling, cell behavior, and human disease remain less understood. We defined and compared the protein-protein interaction networks for each member of the FAM123 family by affinity purification and mass spectrometry. Protein localization and functional studies suggest that the FAM123 family members have conserved and divergent cellular roles. In contrast to WTX and FAM123C, we found that microtubule-associated proteins were enriched in the FAM123A protein interaction network. FAM123A interacted with and tracked with the plus end of dynamic microtubules. Domain interaction experiments revealed a "SKIP" amino acid motif in FAM123A that mediated interaction with the microtubule tip tracking proteins end-binding protein 1 (EB1) and EB3--and therefore with microtubules. Cells depleted of FAM123A showed compartment-specific effects on microtubule dynamics, increased actomyosin contractility, larger focal adhesions, and decreased cell migration. These effects required binding of FAM123A to and inhibition of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor ARHGEF2, a microtubule-associated activator of RhoA. Together, these data suggest that the SKIP motif enables FAM123A, but not the other FAM123 family members, to bind to EB proteins, localize to microtubules, and coordinate microtubule dynamics and actomyosin contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila F Siesser
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Abstract
The cadherin/catenin complex organizes to form a structural Velcro that joins the cytoskeletal networks of adjacent cells. Functional loss of this complex arrests the development of normal tissue organization, and years of research have gone into teasing out how the physical structure of adhesions conveys information to the cell interior. Evidence that most cadherin-binding partners also localize to the nucleus to regulate transcription supports the view that cadherins serve as simple stoichiometric inhibitors of nuclear signals. However, it is also clear that cadherin-based adhesion initiates a variety of molecular events that can ultimately impact nuclear signaling. This chapter discusses these two modes of cadherin signaling in the context of tissue growth and differentiation.
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Pfister AS, Tanneberger K, Schambony A, Behrens J. Amer2 protein is a novel negative regulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling involved in neuroectodermal patterning. J Biol Chem 2011; 287:1734-41. [PMID: 22128170 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.308650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is negatively controlled by the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) tumor suppressor, which induces proteasomal degradation of β-catenin as part of the β-catenin destruction complex. Amer2 (APC membrane recruitment 2; FAM123A) is a direct interaction partner of APC, related to the tumor suppressor Amer1/WTX, but its function in Wnt signaling is not known. Here, we show that Amer2 recruits APC to the plasma membrane by binding to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate lipids via lysine-rich motifs and that APC links β-catenin and the destruction complex components axin and conductin to Amer2. Knockdown of Amer2 increased Wnt target gene expression and reporter activity in cell lines, and overexpression reduced reporter activity, which required membrane association of Amer2. In Xenopus embryos, Amer2 is expressed mainly in the dorsal neuroectoderm and neural tissues. Down-regulation of Amer2 by specific morpholino oligonucleotides altered neuroectodermal patterning, which could be rescued by expression of a dominant-negative mutant of Lef1 that interferes with β-catenin-dependent transcription. Our data characterize Amer2 for the first time as a negative regulator of Wnt signaling both in cell lines and in vivo and define Amer proteins as a novel family of Wnt pathway regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid S Pfister
- Nikolaus Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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