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Chen Y, Jiang X, Yuan Y, Chen Y, Wei S, Yu Y, Zhou Q, Yu Y, Wang J, Liu H, Hua X, Yang Z, Chen Z, Li Y, Wang Q, Chen J, Wang Y. Coptisine inhibits neointimal hyperplasia through attenuating Pak1/Pak2 signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells without retardation of re-endothelialization. Atherosclerosis 2024; 391:117480. [PMID: 38447436 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Vascular injury-induced endothelium-denudation and profound vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and dis-regulated apoptosis lead to post-angioplasty restenosis. Coptisine (CTS), an isoquinoline alkaloid, has multiple beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Recent studies identified it selectively inhibits VSMCs proliferation. However, its effects on neointimal hyperplasia, re-endothelialization, and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. METHODS Cell viability was assayed by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence of Ki67 and TUNEL. Quantitative phosphoproteomics (QPP) was employed to screen CTS-responsive phosphor-sites in the key regulators of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Neointimal hyperplasia was induced by balloon injury of rat left carotid artery (LCA). Adenoviral gene transfer was conducted in both cultured cells and LCA. Re-endothelialization was evaluated by Evan's blue staining of LCA. RESULTS 1) CTS had strong anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in cultured rat VSMCs, with the EC50 4∼10-folds lower than that in endothelial cells (ECs). 2) Rats administered with CTS, either locally to LCA's periadventitial space or orally, demonstrated a potently inhibited balloon injury-induced neointimal hyperplasia, but had no delaying effect on re-endothelialization. 3) The QPP results revealed that the phosphorylation levels of Pak1S144/S203, Pak2S20/S197, Erk1T202/Y204, Erk2T185/Y187, and BadS136 were significantly decreased in VSMCs by CTS. 4) Adenoviral expression of phosphomimetic mutants Pak1D144/D203/Pak2D20/D197 enhanced Pak1/2 activities, stimulated the downstream pErk1T202/Y204/pErk2T185/Y187/pErk3S189/pBadS136, attenuated CTS-mediated inhibition of VSMCs proliferation and promotion of apoptosis in vitro, and potentiated neointimal hyperplasia in vivo. 5) Adenoviral expression of phosphoresistant mutants Pak1A144/A203/Pak2A20/A197 inactivated Pak1/2 and totally simulated the inhibitory effects of CTS on platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated VSMCs proliferation and PDGF-inhibited apoptosis in vitro and neointimal hyperplasia in vivo. 6) LCA injury significantly enhanced the endogenous phosphorylation levels of all but pBadS136. CTS markedly attenuated all the enhanced levels. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that CTS is a promising medicine for prevention of post-angioplasty restenosis without adverse impact on re-endothelialization. CTS-directed suppression of pPak1S144/S203/pPak2S20/S197 and the subsequent effects on downstream pErk1T202/Y204/pErk2T185/Y187/pErk3S189 and pBadS136 underline its mechanisms of inhibition of VSMCs proliferation and stimulation of apoptosis. Therefore, the phosphor-sites of Pak1S144/S203/Pak2S20/S197 constitute a potential drug-screening target for fighting neointimal hyperplasia restenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Chen
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xueze Jiang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China; Department of Cardiology, Baoshan Branch of Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yuchan Yuan
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Sisi Wei
- Children Inherited Metabolism and Endocrine Department, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 511400, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Julie Wang
- Department of Computer Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Med, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xuesheng Hua
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Zhenwei Yang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Zhiyong Chen
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yigang Li
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qunshan Wang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Yuepeng Wang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Laboratory, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Riaud M, Maxwell J, Soria-Bretones I, Dankner M, Li M, Rose AAN. The role of CRAF in cancer progression: from molecular mechanisms to precision therapies. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:105-122. [PMID: 38195917 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00650-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
The RAF family of kinases includes key activators of the pro-tumourigenic mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Hyperactivation of RAF proteins, particularly BRAF and CRAF, drives tumour progression and drug resistance in many types of cancer. Although BRAF is the most studied RAF protein, partially owing to its high mutation incidence in melanoma, the role of CRAF in tumourigenesis and drug resistance is becoming increasingly clinically relevant. Here, we summarize the main known regulatory mechanisms and gene alterations that contribute to CRAF activity, highlighting the different oncogenic roles of CRAF, and categorize RAF1 (CRAF) mutations according to the effect on kinase activity. Additionally, we emphasize the effect that CRAF alterations may have on drug resistance and how precision therapies could effectively target CRAF-dependent tumours. Here, we discuss preclinical and clinical findings that may lead to improved treatments for all types of oncogenic RAF1 alterations in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Riaud
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jennifer Maxwell
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Isabel Soria-Bretones
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Dankner
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Meredith Li
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - April A N Rose
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Jiao L, Yi W, Chang YR, Cheng WL, Cao JL, Chao SP, Zhao F, Lu Z. Inhibition of P21-activated Kinase 1 Promotes Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Apoptosis Through Reduction of Phosphorylation of Bad. Am J Hypertens 2024; 37:46-52. [PMID: 36634025 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpad007] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND P21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) has an effect on cell apoptosis and has recently been reported to play an important role in various cardiovascular diseases, in which vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) apoptosis is a key process. Thus, we hypothesized that Pak1 may be a novel target to regulate VSMC behaviors. METHODS AND RESULTS In the present study, we found that the expression of Pak1 was dramatically upregulated in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) on H2O2 administration and was dependent on stimulation time. Through a loss-of-function approach, Pak1 knockdown increased apoptosis of VSMCs, as tested by TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling) immunofluorescence staining, whereas it inhibited the proliferation of VSMCs examined by EdU staining. Moreover, we also noticed that Pak1 silencing promoted the mRNA and protein levels of pro-apoptosis genes but decreased anti-apoptosis marker expression. Importantly, we showed that Pak1 knockdown reduced the phosphorylation of Bad. Moreover, increased Pak1 expression was also noticed in carotid arteries on the wire jury. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified that Pak1 acted as a novel regulator of apoptosis of VSMCs partially through phosphorylation of Bad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jiao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wenjuan Yi
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yu-Rong Chang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wen-Lin Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jian-Lei Cao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Sheng-Ping Chao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Fang Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zhibing Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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Ta L, Tsai BL, Deng W, Sha J, Varuzhanyan G, Tran W, Wohlschlegel JA, Carr-Ascher JR, Witte ON. Wild-type C-Raf gene dosage and dimerization drive prostate cancer metastasis. iScience 2023; 26:108480. [PMID: 38089570 PMCID: PMC10711388 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutated Ras and Raf kinases are well-known to promote cancer metastasis via flux through the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK]) pathway. A role for non-mutated Raf in metastasis is also emerging, but the key mechanisms remain unclear. Elevated expression of any of the three wild-type Raf family members (C, A, or B) can drive metastasis. We utilized an in vivo model to show that wild-type C-Raf overexpression can promote metastasis of immortalized prostate cells in a gene dosage-dependent manner. Analysis of the transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic landscape indicated that C-Raf-driven metastasis is accompanied by upregulated MAPK signaling. Use of C-Raf mutants demonstrated that the dimerization domain, but not its kinase activity, is essential for metastasis. Endogenous Raf monomer knockouts revealed that C-Raf's ability to form dimers with endogenous Raf molecules is important for promoting metastasis. These data identify wild-type C-Raf heterodimer signaling as a potential target for treating metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Ta
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Brandon L. Tsai
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Weixian Deng
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jihui Sha
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Grigor Varuzhanyan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Wendy Tran
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - James A. Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Janai R. Carr-Ascher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, Davis; Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Owen N. Witte
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Kichina JV, Maslov A, Kandel ES. PAK1 and Therapy Resistance in Melanoma. Cells 2023; 12:2373. [PMID: 37830586 PMCID: PMC10572217 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma claims more lives than any other skin malignancy. While primary melanomas are usually cured via surgical excision, the metastatic form of the disease portents a poor prognosis. Decades of intense research has yielded an extensive armamentarium of anti-melanoma therapies, ranging from genotoxic chemo- and radiotherapies to targeted interventions in specific signaling pathways and immune functions. Unfortunately, even the most up-to-date embodiments of these therapies are not curative for the majority of metastatic melanoma patients, and the need to improve their efficacy is widely recognized. Here, we review the reports that implicate p21-regulated kinase 1 (PAK1) and PAK1-related pathways in the response of melanoma to various therapeutic modalities. Ample data suggest that PAK1 may decrease cell sensitivity to programmed cell death, provide additional stimulation to growth-promoting molecular pathways, and contribute to the creation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Accordingly, there is mounting evidence that the concomitant inhibition of PAK1 enhances the potency of various anti-melanoma regimens. Overall, the available information suggests that a safe and effective inhibition of PAK1-dependent molecular processes would enhance the potency of the currently available anti-melanoma treatments, although considerable challenges in implementing such strategies still exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V. Kichina
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Alexei Maslov
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Eugene S. Kandel
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm & Carlton St., Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
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Yang J, Li S, He J, Xu Q, Xie M, Yang C, Wang H, Zhang Y, Wan Q, Xiang M. Dual role of PID1 in regulating apoptosis induced by distinct anticancer-agents through AKT/Raf-1-dependent pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:139. [PMID: 37117198 PMCID: PMC10147665 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01405-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is severely hampered due to its etiology, and thus in depth understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying response of HCC to various anticancer agents is needed. Here, we have identified Phosphotyrosine interaction domain-containing protein 1 (PID1) as a novel regulator involved in modulation of apoptosis induced by anticancer agents in a context-dependent manner. PID1 relieved chemotherapy-induced ROS production, mitochondrial outer membrane permeability and mitochondrial respiratory depression. In addition, PID1 restricted AKT-mediated inhibition on Raf-1 through interacting with PDPK1 at phosphorylated tyrosine sites, thus enhancing Raf-1-mediated BAD inhibition. Interestingly, AKT, Bcl2 inhibition or Raf-1 silencing abolished PID1-mediated anti-apoptotic effects. However, PID1 altered the rhythmicity of pharmacological activity of Sorafenib on various survival-related kinases, thus resulting in AKT blockade via Raf-1/BRAF/ERK/MEK pathway. BRAF inhibition or Raf-1 depletion disrupted PID1-mediated barrier in AKT activation in response to Sorafenib. Moreover, in vivo study indicated that PID1 deficiency led to increased survival rate upon Doxorubicin treatment but reduced efficacy of Sorafenib. Overall, we propose that PID1 can function as an underlying biomarker of resistance to conventional chemotherapeutic agents but sensitivity towards Sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Senlin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jialuo He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qianqian Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Mengyuan Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ci Yang
- Department of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Hongjie Wang
- Institute for Human Health & Disease Intervention, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, 33458, FL, USA
| | - Yonghui Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Qian Wan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Ming Xiang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Nussinov R, Yavuz BR, Arici MK, Demirel HC, Zhang M, Liu Y, Tsai CJ, Jang H, Tuncbag N. Neurodevelopmental disorders, like cancer, are connected to impaired chromatin remodelers, PI3K/mTOR, and PAK1-regulated MAPK. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:163-181. [PMID: 37124926 PMCID: PMC10133437 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractNeurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and cancer share proteins, pathways, and mutations. Their clinical symptoms are different. However, individuals with NDDs have higher probabilities of eventually developing cancer. Here, we review the literature and ask how the shared features can lead to different medical conditions and why having an NDD first can increase the chances of malignancy. To explore these vital questions, we focus on dysregulated PI3K/mTOR, a major brain cell growth pathway in differentiation, and MAPK, a critical pathway in proliferation, a hallmark of cancer. Differentiation is governed by chromatin organization, making aberrant chromatin remodelers highly likely agents in NDDs. Dysregulated chromatin organization and accessibility influence the lineage of specific cell brain types at specific embryonic development stages. PAK1, with pivotal roles in brain development and in cancer, also regulates MAPK. We review, clarify, and connect dysregulated pathways with dysregulated proliferation and differentiation in cancer and NDDs and highlight PAK1 role in brain development and MAPK regulation. Exactly how PAK1 activation controls brain development, and why specific chromatin remodeler components, e.g., BAF170 encoded by SMARCC2 in autism, await clarification.
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Chetty AK, Ha BH, Boggon TJ. Rho family GTPase signaling through type II p21-activated kinases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:598. [PMID: 36401658 PMCID: PMC10105373 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04618-2] [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] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signaling from the Rho family small GTPases controls a wide range of signaling outcomes. Key among the downstream effectors for many of the Rho GTPases are the p21-activated kinases, or PAK group. The PAK family comprises two types, the type I PAKs (PAK1, 2 and 3) and the type II PAKs (PAK4, 5 and 6), which have distinct structures and mechanisms of regulation. In this review, we discuss signal transduction from Rho GTPases with a focus on the type II PAKs. We discuss the role of PAKs in signal transduction pathways and selectivity of Rho GTPases for PAK family members. We consider the less well studied of the Rho GTPases and their PAK-related signaling. We then discuss the molecular basis for kinase domain recognition of substrates and for regulation of signaling. We conclude with a discussion of the role of PAKs in cross talk between Rho family small GTPases and the roles of PAKs in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin K Chetty
- Yale College, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Byung Hak Ha
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Titus J Boggon
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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Bispo IMC, Granger HP, Almeida PP, Nishiyama PB, de Freitas LM. Systems biology and OMIC data integration to understand gastrointestinal cancers. World J Clin Oncol 2022; 13:762-778. [PMID: 36337313 PMCID: PMC9630993 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v13.i10.762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a set of diverse diseases affecting many parts/ organs. The five most frequent GI cancer types are esophageal, gastric cancer (GC), liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer (CRC); together, they give rise to 5 million new cases and cause the death of 3.5 million people annually. We provide information about molecular changes crucial to tumorigenesis and the behavior and prognosis. During the formation of cancer cells, the genomic changes are microsatellite instability with multiple chromosomal arrangements in GC and CRC. The genomically stable subtype is observed in GC and pancreatic cancer. Besides these genomic subtypes, CRC has epigenetic modification (hypermethylation) associated with a poor prognosis. The pathway information highlights the functions shared by GI cancers such as apoptosis; focal adhesion; and the p21-activated kinase, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt, transforming growth factor beta, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. These pathways show survival, cell proliferation, and cell motility. In addition, the immune response and inflammation are also essential elements in the shared functions. We also retrieved information on protein-protein interaction from the STRING database, and found that proteins Akt1, catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1), E1A binding protein P300, tumor protein p53 (TP53), and TP53 binding protein 1 (TP53BP1) are central nodes in the network. The protein expression of these genes is associated with overall survival in some GI cancers. The low TP53BP1 expression in CRC, high EP300 expression in esophageal cancer, and increased expression of Akt1/TP53 or low CTNNB1 expression in GC are associated with a poor prognosis. The Kaplan Meier plotter database also confirmed the association between expression of the five central genes and GC survival rates. In conclusion, GI cancers are very diverse at the molecular level. However, the shared mutations and protein pathways might be used to understand better and reveal diagnostic/prognostic or drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iasmin Moreira Costa Bispo
- Núcleo de Biointegração, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45.029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Henry Paul Granger
- Núcleo de Biointegração, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45.029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Palloma Porto Almeida
- Division of Experimental and Translational Research, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rio de Janeiro 20231-050, Brazil
| | - Patricia Belini Nishiyama
- Núcleo de Biointegração, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45.029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Leandro Martins de Freitas
- Núcleo de Biointegração, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45.029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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Guo P, Liu Y, Feng J, Tang S, Wei F, Feng J. p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) as a therapeutic target for cardiotoxicity. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:3143-3162. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Zeng H, Tong F, Bin Y, Peng L, Gao X, Xia X, Yi X, Dong X. The Predictive Value of PAK7 Mutation for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Therapy in Non-Small Cell Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:834142. [PMID: 35242138 PMCID: PMC8886445 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.834142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To date, immunotherapy has improved the 5-year survival rate of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from 4% to 15%. However, only 30%-50% of the NSCLC patients respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) immunotherapy. Therefore, screening patients for potential benefit with precise biomarkers may be of great value. Methods First, an immunotherapy NSCLC cohort was analyzed to identify the gene mutations associated with the prognosis of ICI treatment. Further analyses were conducted using NSCLC cohort in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project to validate the correlations between the specific gene mutations and tumor immunogenicity, antitumor immunity, and alterations in the tumor-related pathways using Cell-type Identification By Estimating Relative Subsets Of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT) and Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Results In the immunotherapy NSCLC cohort (n = 266), significantly longer overall survival (OS) rates were observed in the PAK7-mutant type (PAK7-MT) group (n = 13) than the PAK7-wild type (PAK7-WT) group (n = 253) (P = 0.049, HR = 0.43, 95%CI = 0.23-0.79). In the TCGA cohort, PAK7 mutations were correlated with the higher tumor mutation burden (TMB) (14.18 vs. 7.13, P <0.001), increased neoantigen load (NAL) (7.52 vs. 4.30, P <0.001), lower copy number variation (CNV), and higher mutation rate in the DNA damage response (DDR)-related pathways. In addition, PAK7 mutations were also positively correlated with immune-related genes expressions and infiltrating CD8+ T cells (0.079 vs. 0.054, P = 0.005). GSEA results showed that several tumor-related pathways varied in the PAK7-MT group, suggesting the potential mechanisms that regulate the tumor immune-microenvironment. Conclusions This study suggested that the PAK7 mutations might be a potential biomarker to predict the efficacy of immunotherapy for NSCLC patients. Considering the heterogeneity among the patients and other confounding factors, a prospective clinical trial is proposed to further validate the impact of PAK7 mutation on the immunotherapy outcomes in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zeng
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Tong
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yawen Bin
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Peng
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Research and Development Department, GenePlus- Shenzhen Clinical Laboratory, ShenZhen, China
| | - Xuefeng Xia
- Research and Development Department, Geneplus-Beijing Clinical Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Yi
- Research and Development Department, Geneplus-Beijing Clinical Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaorong Dong
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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12
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How Do Hexokinases Inhibit Receptor-Mediated Apoptosis? BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030412. [PMID: 35336786 PMCID: PMC8945020 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary In multicellular animals, cells autonomously respond to lethal stress by inducing cell death programs. The most common regulated cell death is apoptosis. Cells protect their neighbors from damage by their cell contents or infection through this process. Apoptosis can occur as a result of intrinsic stress or induced by surface receptors, for example, by immune cells. In most cases, receptor-mediated apoptosis also requires the intrinsic signaling pathway. Intrinsic apoptosis is controlled by proteins of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) family. Pro-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins are inhibited by retrotranslocation from the mitochondria into the cytosol until the cell commits to apoptosis. Increasingly, discoveries show that BCL-2 proteins are regulated by proteins that are not themselves members of the BCL-2 family. Here, we discuss the selective inhibition of the link between death receptors activation and intrinsic apoptosis by hexokinases. These enzymes funnel glucose into the cellular metabolism. Independently, hexokinases retrotranslocate BCL-2 proteins and thereby protect cells from receptor-mediated apoptosis. Abstract The regulated cell death apoptosis enables redundant or compromised cells in ontogeny and homeostasis to remove themselves receptor-dependent after extrinsic signaling or after internal stress by BCL-2 proteins on the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM). Mitochondrial BCL-2 proteins are also often needed for receptor-mediated signaling in apoptosis. Then, the truncated BH3-only protein BID (tBID) blocks retrotranslocation of the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins BAX and BAK from the mitochondria into the cytosol. BAX and BAK in turn permeabilize the OMM. Although the BCL-2 proteins are controlled by a complex regulatory network, a specific mechanism for the inhibition of tBID remained unknown. Curiously, it was suggested that hexokinases, which channel glucose into the metabolism, have an intriguing function in the regulation of apoptosis. Recent analysis of transient hexokinase interactions with BAX revealed its participation in the inhibition of BAX and also BAK by retrotranslocation from mitochondria to the cytosol. In contrast to general apoptosis inhibition by anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins, hexokinase I and hexokinase 2 specifically inhibit tBID and thus the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in response to death receptor signaling. Mitochondrial hexokinase localization and BH3 binding of cytosolic hexokinase domains are prerequisites for protection against receptor-mediated cell death, whereas glucose metabolism is not. This mechanism protects cells from apoptosis induced by cytotoxic T cells.
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13
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Abnormal mitochondria in Down syndrome iPSC-derived GABAergic interneurons and organoids. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166388. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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p21-Activated kinases as promising therapeutic targets in hematological malignancies. Leukemia 2022; 36:315-326. [PMID: 34697424 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01451-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The p21-Activated Kinases (PAKs) are a family of six serine/threonine kinases that were originally identified as downstream effectors of the Rho GTPases Cdc42 and Rac. Since the first PAK was discovered in 1994, studies have revealed their fundamental and biological importance in the development of physiological systems. Within the cell, PAKs also play significant roles in regulating essential cellular processes such as cytoskeletal dynamics, gene expression, cell survival, and cell cycle progression. These processes are often deregulated in numerous cancers when different PAKs are overexpressed or amplified at the chromosomal level. Furthermore, PAKs modulate multiple oncogenic signaling pathways which facilitate apoptosis escape, uncontrolled proliferation, and drug resistance. There is growing insight into the critical roles of PAKs in regulating steady-state hematopoiesis, including the properties of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), and the initiation and progression of hematological malignancies. This review will focus on the most recent studies that provide experimental evidence showing how specific PAKs regulate the properties of leukemic stem cells (LSCs) and drug-resistant cells to initiate and maintain hematological malignancies. The current understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the PAKs operate in specific human leukemia or lymphomas will be discussed. From a translational point of view, PAKs have been suggested to be critical therapeutic targets and potential prognosis markers; thus, this review will also discuss current therapeutic strategies against hematological malignancies using existing small-molecule PAK inhibitors, as well as promising combination treatments, to sensitize drug-resistant cells to conventional therapies. The challenges of toxicity and non-specific targeting associated with some PAK inhibitors, as well as how future approaches for PAK inhibition to overcome these limitations, will also be addressed.
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15
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Khan PS, Rajesh P, Rajendra P, Chaskar MG, Rohidas A, Jaiprakash S. Recent advances in B-RAF inhibitors as anticancer agents. Bioorg Chem 2022; 120:105597. [PMID: 35033817 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The significance of B-RAF in the promotion of cell proliferation and motility was explored by the researchers in the past. However, in 2002, several researchers found that mutation in B-RAF leads to cancer. Extensive research on B-RAF mutations suggested B-RAF V600E mutation as a critical predictive, prognostic and diagnostic biomarker in numerous cancers such as melanoma, thyroid, and colorectal cancers. Based on the significance of B-RAF kinase and associated mutation, the present review will give a brief overview about structure and functions of B-RAF enzyme, its role in different types of cancer, available drugs in the market for B-RAF inhibition, chemical classification and SAR studies of reported investigational B-RAF inhibitors in patented and non-patented literature during last decade. The SAR provided for all the reported inhibitors will help researchers to gain knowledge about the possible structural features required for selective B-RAF inhibition. This insightful analysis of B-RAF will certainly help researchers to develop novel anticancer agents in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathan Shahebaaz Khan
- Y. B. Chavan College of Pharmacy, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria Campus, Rauza Baugh, Aurangabad, MS 431001, India
| | - Patil Rajesh
- Sinhgad Technical Education Society's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Kondhwa (Bk), Pune, India
| | - Patil Rajendra
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007, M.S., India
| | - Manohar G Chaskar
- Prof Ramkrishna More College, Akurdi, Pune 411044, Maharashtra, India
| | - Arote Rohidas
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul. Republic of Korea
| | - Sangshetti Jaiprakash
- Y. B. Chavan College of Pharmacy, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria Campus, Rauza Baugh, Aurangabad, MS 431001, India.
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p21-Activated kinase 1 (PAK1) in aging and longevity: An overview. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 71:101443. [PMID: 34390849 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The p21-activated kinases (PAKs) belong to serine/threonine kinases family, regulated by ∼21 kDa small signaling G proteins RAC1 and CDC42. The mammalian PAK family comprises six members (PAK1-6) that are classified into two groups (I and II) based on their domain architecture and regulatory mechanisms. PAKs are implicated in a wide range of cellular functions. PAK1 has recently attracted increasing attention owing to its involvement in oncogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis as well as several life-limiting diseases and pathological conditions. In Caenorhabditis elegans, PAK1 functions limit the lifespan under basal conditions by inhibiting forkhead transcription factor DAF-16. Interestingly, PAK depletion extended longevity and attenuated the onset of age-related phenotypes in a premature-aging mouse model and delayed senescence in mammalian fibroblasts. These observations implicate PAKs as not only oncogenic but also aging kinases. Therefore, PAK-targeting genetic and/or pharmacological interventions, particularly PAK1-targeting, could be a viable strategy for developing cancer therapies with relatively no side effects and promoting healthy longevity. This review describes PAK family proteins, their biological functions, and their role in regulating aging and longevity using C. elegans. Moreover, we discuss the effect of small-molecule PAK1 inhibitors on the lifespan and healthspan of C. elegans.
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17
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Wright GM, Gimbrone NT, Sarcar B, Percy TR, Gordián ER, Kinose F, Sumi NJ, Rix U, Cress WD. CDK4/6 inhibition synergizes with inhibition of P21-Activated Kinases (PAKs) in lung cancer cell lines. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252927. [PMID: 34138895 PMCID: PMC8211232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretically, small molecule CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6is) represent a logical therapeutic option in non-small cell lung cancers since most of these malignancies have wildtype RB, the key target of CDKs and master regulator of the cell cycle. Unfortunately, CDK4/6is are found to have limited clinical activity as single agents in non-small cell lung cancer. To address this problem and to identify effective CDK4/6i combinations, we screened a library of targeted agents for efficacy in four non-small cell lung cancer lines treated with CDK4/6 inhibitors Palbociclib or Abemaciclib. The pan-PAK (p21-activated kinase) inhibitor PF03758309 emerged as a promising candidate with viability ratios indicating synergy in all 4 cell lines and for both CDK4/6is. It is noteworthy that the PAKs are downstream effectors of small GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42 and are overexpressed in a wide variety of cancers. Individually the compounds primarily induced cell cycle arrest; however, the synergistic combination induced apoptosis, accounting for the synergy. Surprisingly, while the pan-PAK inhibitor PF03758309 synergizes with CDK4/6is, no synergy occurs with group I PAK inhibitors FRAX486 or FRAX597. Cell lines treated only with Ribociclib, FRAX486 or FRAX597 underwent G1/G0 arrest, whereas combination treatment with these compounds predominantly resulted in autophagy. Combining high concentrations of FRAX486, which weakly inhibits PAK4, and Ribociclib, mimics the autophagy and apoptotic effect of PF03758309 combined with Ribociclib. FRAX597, a PAKi that does not inhibit PAK4 did not reduce autophagy in combination with Ribociclib. Our results suggest that a unique combination of PAKs plays a crucial role in the synergy of PAK inhibitors with CDK4/6i. Targeting this unique PAK combination, could greatly improve the efficacy of CDK4/6i and broaden the spectrum of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M. Wright
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nick T. Gimbrone
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Bhaswati Sarcar
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Trent R. Percy
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Edna R. Gordián
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Fumi Kinose
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Natália J. Sumi
- Department of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Uwe Rix
- Department of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - W. Douglas Cress
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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18
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Bautista L, Knippler CM, Ringel MD. p21-Activated Kinases in Thyroid Cancer. Endocrinology 2020; 161:bqaa105. [PMID: 32609833 PMCID: PMC7417880 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The family of p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are oncogenic proteins that regulate critical cellular functions. PAKs play central signaling roles in the integrin/CDC42/Rho, ERK/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, functioning both as kinases and scaffolds to regulate cell motility, mitosis and proliferation, cytoskeletal rearrangement, and other cellular activities. PAKs have been implicated in both the development and progression of a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, pancreatic melanoma, thyroid cancer, and others. Here we will discuss the current knowledge on the structure and biological functions of both group I and group II PAKs, as well as the roles that PAKs play in oncogenesis and progression, with a focus on thyroid cancer and emerging data regarding BRAF/PAK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Bautista
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, and Cancer Biology Program, The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Christina M Knippler
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, and Cancer Biology Program, The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University and Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Matthew D Ringel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, and Cancer Biology Program, The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
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19
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Yao D, Li C, Rajoka MSR, He Z, Huang J, Wang J, Zhang J. P21-Activated Kinase 1: Emerging biological functions and potential therapeutic targets in Cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:9741-9766. [PMID: 32863957 PMCID: PMC7449905 DOI: 10.7150/thno.46913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The p21-Activated kinase 1 (PAK1), a member of serine-threonine kinases family, was initially identified as an interactor of the Rho GTPases RAC1 and CDC42, which affect a wide range of processes associated with cell motility, survival, metabolism, cell cycle, proliferation, transformation, stress, inflammation, and gene expression. Recently, the PAK1 has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in cancer due to its role in many oncogenic signaling pathways. Many PAK1 inhibitors have been developed as potential preclinical agents for cancer therapy. Here, we provide an overview of essential roles that PAK1 plays in cancer, including its structure and autoactivation mechanism, its crucial function from onset to progression to metastasis, metabolism, immune escape and even drug resistance in cancer; endogenous regulators; and cancer-related pathways. We also summarize the reported PAK1 small-molecule inhibitors based on their structure types and their potential application in cancer. In addition, we provide overviews on current progress and future challenges of PAK1 in cancer, hoping to provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
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20
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Kanumuri R, Saravanan R, Pavithra V, Sundaram S, Rayala SK, Venkatraman G. Current trends and opportunities in targeting p21 activated kinase-1(PAK1) for therapeutic management of breast cancers. Gene 2020; 760:144991. [PMID: 32717309 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Identifying reliable biomarkers and druggable molecular targets pose to be a significant quest in breast cancer research. p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is a serine/threonine kinase that direct cell motility, cytoskeletal remodelling, and has been shown to function as a downstream regulator for various cancer signalling cascades that promote cell proliferation, apoptosis deregulation and hasten mitotic abnormalities, resulting in tumor formation and progression. The heterogeneity and acquired drug resistance are important factors that challenge the treatment of breast cancer. p21-activated kinase 1 signalling is crucial for activation of the Ras/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Wnt signalling cascades which regulate cell survival, cell cycle progression, differentiation, and proliferation. A study involving proteogenomics analysis on breast cancer tissues showed the PAK1 as outlier kinase. In addition to this, few outlier molecules were identified specific to subtypes of breast cancer. A few substrates of PAK1 in breast cancer are already known. In this paper, we have discussed a similar approach called Kinase Interacting Substrate Screening (KISS) for the identification of novel oncogenic substrates of p21-activated kinase specific to subtypes of breast cancer. Such high throughput approaches are expected to accelerate the process of identifying novel drug targets and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Kanumuri
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences & Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India; Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Roshni Saravanan
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences & Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - V Pavithra
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Sandhya Sundaram
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Suresh K Rayala
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
| | - Ganesh Venkatraman
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences & Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
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Bracher L, Ferro I, Pulido-Quetglas C, Ruepp MD, Johnson R, Polacek N. Human vtRNA1-1 Levels Modulate Signaling Pathways and Regulate Apoptosis in Human Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10040614. [PMID: 32316166 PMCID: PMC7226377 DOI: 10.3390/biom10040614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory non-protein coding RNAs perform a remarkable variety of complex biological functions. Previously, we demonstrated a role of the human non-coding vault RNA1-1 (vtRNA1-1) in inhibiting intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis in several cancer cell lines. Yet on the molecular level, the function of the vtRNA1-1 is still not fully clear. Here, we created HeLa knock-out cell lines revealing that prolonged starvation triggers elevated levels of apoptosis in the absence of vtRNA1-1 but not in vtRNA1-3 knock-out cells. Next-generation deep sequencing of the mRNome identified the PI3K/Akt pathway and the ERK1/2 MAPK cascade, two prominent signaling axes, to be misregulated in the absence of vtRNA1-1 during starvation-mediated cell death conditions. Expression of vtRNA1-1 mutants identified a short stretch of 24 nucleotides of the vtRNA1-1 central domain as being essential for successful maintenance of apoptosis resistance. This study describes a cell signaling-dependent contribution of the human vtRNA1-1 to starvation-induced programmed cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisamaria Bracher
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.B.); (I.F.); (M.-D.R.)
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Iolanda Ferro
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.B.); (I.F.); (M.-D.R.)
| | - Carlos Pulido-Quetglas
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marc-David Ruepp
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.B.); (I.F.); (M.-D.R.)
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Rory Johnson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Norbert Polacek
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.B.); (I.F.); (M.-D.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Degirmenci U, Wang M, Hu J. Targeting Aberrant RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK Signaling for Cancer Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E198. [PMID: 31941155 PMCID: PMC7017232 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signaling cascade is essential for cell inter- and intra-cellular communication, which regulates fundamental cell functions such as growth, survival, and differentiation. The MAPK pathway also integrates signals from complex intracellular networks in performing cellular functions. Despite the initial discovery of the core elements of the MAPK pathways nearly four decades ago, additional findings continue to make a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of this pathway challenging. Considerable effort has been focused on the regulation of RAF, especially after the discovery of drug resistance and paradoxical activation upon inhibitor binding to the kinase. RAF activity is regulated by phosphorylation and conformation-dependent regulation, including auto-inhibition and dimerization. In this review, we summarize the recent major findings in the study of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling cascade, particularly with respect to the impact on clinical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk Degirmenci
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
| | - Mei Wang
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Jiancheng Hu
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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Li YK, Zou J, Ye DM, Zeng Y, Chen CY, Luo GF, Zeng X. Human p21-activated kinase 5 (PAK5) expression and potential mechanisms in relevant cancers: Basic and clinical perspectives for molecular cancer therapeutics. Life Sci 2019; 241:117113. [PMID: 31805288 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.117113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
An oncogenic role, p21-activated kinase 5 (PAK5), has proven as a significant mediator for many cellular progression, which is expressed highly in human organs such as lung, liver, kidney, blood vessels endothelial cells and inflammatory cells. PAK5 was primitively detected in the cerebrum and accelerated the filopodia formation in neurocytes. It can reverse the effect of Rho and adjust its activity to mediate maintenance and development of nerve axon by binding with Cdc42-GTP. Moreover, PAK5 has been suggested to mediate protean, multitudinous and inscrutable functions in cancer. Currently, many researches indicated that PAK5 was dysregulated in ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, melanoma, osteosarcoma, renal carcinoma, breast cancer, gastric cancer and so on, which was involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion. This review focuses the latest knowledge on the structure, expression, signalling pathway of PAK5, emphasizing its function in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Kun Li
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Juan Zou
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Dong-Mei Ye
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Ying Zeng
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Chang-Ye Chen
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 410011, PR China
| | - Gui-Fang Luo
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 410011, PR China.
| | - Xi Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China.
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24
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Li Q, Wu X, Guo L, Shi J, Li J. MicroRNA-7-5p induces cell growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by targeting PAK2 in non-small cell lung cancer. FEBS Open Bio 2019; 9:1983-1993. [PMID: 31587474 PMCID: PMC6823280 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miR) are known to be critical regulators in tumor progression. miR-7-5p was reported to be involved in several cancers, including glioblastoma, cervical cancer, and melanoma, but its prognostic value and biological function in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear. In this study, using quantitative real-time PCR analysis, we found that miR-7-5p was significantly downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Lower miR-7-5p expression was associated with tumor-node-metastasis stage and tumor size by chi-squared test. Deceased miR-7-5p expression was associated with a worse prognosis in patients with NSCLC using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Experiments in NSCLC cell lines (A549 and H1299) demonstrated that upregulation of miR-7-5p significantly suppressed cell proliferation, but induced cell cycle G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis using Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, and flow cytometry analysis. Through loss-of-function assays, we further demonstrated that downregulation of miR-7-5p promoted cell proliferation and cell cycle G1/S transition, but decreased cell apoptosis in SPC-A1 cells. Furthermore, P21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) was predicted and confirmed as a direct target gene of miR-7-5p in NSCLC cells by luciferase reporter assay. In addition, we found PAK2 overexpression could partially reverse the effects of miR-7-5p on cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis. We thus concluded that lower expression of miR-7-5p was associated with poor prognosis and NSCLC progression by directly targeting PAK2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Li
- Department of Respiration, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang, China
| | - Xingping Wu
- Department of Respiration, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang, China
| | - Lin Guo
- Department of Respiration, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang, China
| | - Jiaxin Shi
- Department of Respiration, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang, China
| | - Jiashu Li
- Department of Respiration, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Lianyungang, China
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25
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Combined inhibition of receptor tyrosine and p21-activated kinases as a therapeutic strategy in childhood ALL. Blood Adv 2019; 2:2554-2567. [PMID: 30301811 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2018020693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-dependent signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) of childhood. However, the RTK-dependent signaling state and its interpretation with regard to biological behavior are often elusive. To decipher signaling circuits that link RTK activity with biological output in vivo, we established patient-derived xenograft ALL (PDX-ALL) models with dependencies on fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRB), which were interrogated by phosphoproteomics using iTRAQ mass spectrometry. Signaling circuits were determined by receptor type and cellular context with few generic features, among which we identified group I p21-activated kinases (PAKs) as potential therapeutic targets. Growth factor stimulation markedly increased catalytic activities of PAK1 and PAK2. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated or pharmacological inhibition of PAKs using allosteric or adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-competitive compounds attenuated cell growth and increased apoptosis in vitro. Notably, PAK1- or PAK2-directed RNAi enhanced the antiproliferative effects of the type III RTK and protein kinase C inhibitor midostaurin. Treatment of FLT3- or PDGFRB-dependent ALLs with ATP-competitive PAK inhibitors markedly decreased catalytic activities of both PAK isoforms. In FLT3-driven ALL, this effect was augmented by coadministration of midostaurin resulting in synergistic effects on growth inhibition and apoptosis. Finally, combined treatment of FLT3 D835H PDX-ALL with the ATP-competitive group I PAK inhibitor FRAX486 and midostaurin in vivo significantly prolonged leukemia progression-free survival compared with midostaurin monotherapy or control. Our study establishes PAKs as potential downstream targets in RTK-dependent ALL of childhood, the inhibition of which might help prevent the selection or acquisition of resistance mutations toward tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
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26
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Song S, Li D, Yang C, Yan P, Bai Y, Zhang Y, Hu G, Lin C, Li X. Overexpression of NELFCD promotes colorectal cancer cells proliferation, migration, and invasion. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:8741-8750. [PMID: 30584332 PMCID: PMC6287418 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s186266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Negative elongation factor complex member C/D (NELFCD), mapped to chromosome 20q13.32, has been found to be significantly overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) by our previous research. However, whether its overexpression contributes to CRC development is unknown. We aimed to explore the biological and clinical roles of NELFCD in CRC. MATERIALS AND METHODS The expression of NELFCD was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The biological function of NELFCD on CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis was detected by cell counting kit-8, plate colony formation assay, transwell migration and invasion assays, and flow cytometry in vitro and by murine xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, we evaluated the correction between its expression level and clinicopathologic parameters. RESULTS We found NELFCD was overexpressed in 50 pairs of CRC tissues in comparison to the adjacent nontumor tissues (P<0.05). Knockdown of NELFCD significantly impaired cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities, facilitated cell apoptosis in vitro, and inhibited tumorigenesis of CRC cells in vivo. NELFCD levels were remarkably connected with tumor location in CRC patients. CONCLUSION NELFCD is overexpressed and plays an oncogenic role in CRC. Targeting NELFCD may provide a potential therapeutic option for NELFCD-amplified tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglei Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Daojiang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Chunxing Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Peicheng Yan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Yang Bai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Gui Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Changwei Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
| | - Xiaorong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China, ;
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27
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Anti-cancer effect of novel PAK1 inhibitor via induction of PUMA-mediated cell death and p21-mediated cell cycle arrest. Oncotarget 2017; 8:23690-23701. [PMID: 28423593 PMCID: PMC5410337 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyper-activation of PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1) is frequently observed in human cancer and speculated as a target of novel anti-tumor drug. In previous, we also showed that PAK1 is highly activated in the Smad4-deficient condition and suppresses PUMA (p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis) through direct binding and phosphorylation. On the basis of this result, we have tried to find novel PAK1-PUMA binding inhibitors. Through ELISA-based blind chemical library screening, we isolated single compound, IPP-14 (IPP; Inhibitor of PAK1-PUMA), which selectively blocks the PAK1-PUMA binding and also suppresses cell proliferation via PUMA-dependent manner. Indeed, in PUMA-deficient cells, this chemical did not show anti-proliferating effect. This chemical possessed very strong PAK1 inhibition activity that it suppressed BAD (Bcl-2-asoociated death promoter) phosphorylation and meta-phase arrest via Aurora kinase inactivation in lower concentration than that of previous PAK1 kinase, FRAX486 and AG879. Moreover, our chemical obviously induced p21/WAF1/CIP1 (Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A) expression by releasing from Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) and by inhibition of AKT-mediated p21 suppression. Considering our result, IPP-14 and its derivatives would be possible candidates for PAK1 and p21 induction targeted anti-cancer drug.
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28
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Thillai K, Lam H, Sarker D, Wells CM. Deciphering the link between PI3K and PAK: An opportunity to target key pathways in pancreatic cancer? Oncotarget 2017; 8:14173-14191. [PMID: 27845911 PMCID: PMC5355171 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of personalised therapies has ushered in a new and exciting era of cancer treatment for a variety of solid malignancies. Yet pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has failed to benefit from this paradigm shift, remaining notoriously refractory to targeted therapies. Chemotherapy is the cornerstone of management but can offer only modest survival benefits of a few months with 5-year survival rates rarely exceeding 3%. Despite these disappointing statistics, significant strides have been made towards understanding the complex biology of pancreatic cancer, with deep genomic sequencing identifying novel genetic aberrations and key signalling pathways. The PI3K-PDK1-AKT pathway has received great attention due to its prominence in carcinogenesis. However, efforts to target several components of this network have resulted in only a handful of drugs demonstrating any survival benefit in solid tumors; despite promising pre-clinical results. p-21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4) is a gene that is recurrently amplified or overexpressed in PDAC and both PAK4 and related family member PAK1, have been linked to aberrant RAS activity, a common feature in pancreatic cancer. As regulators of PI3K, PAKs have been highlighted as a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the biology of pancreatic cancer and the close interaction between PAKs and the PI3K pathway. We also suggest proposals for future research that may see the development of effective targeted therapies that could finally improve outcomes for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiruthikah Thillai
- Division of Cancer Studies, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hoyin Lam
- Division of Cancer Studies, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Debashis Sarker
- Division of Cancer Studies, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire M Wells
- Division of Cancer Studies, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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29
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POPX2 phosphatase regulates apoptosis through the TAK1-IKK-NF-κB pathway. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e3051. [PMID: 28906490 PMCID: PMC5636987 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Chemoresistance is one of the leading causes that contributes to tumor relapse and poor patient outcome after several rounds of drug therapy. The causes of chemoresistance are multi-factorial. Ultimately, it is the balance of pro- and anti-apoptotic activities in the cells. We have previously reported links between POPX2 serine/threonine phosphatase with cell motility and invasiveness of breast cancer cells. Here, we show that POPX2 plays a role in the regulation of apoptosis. The effect of POPX2 on apoptosis centers on the inactivation of TGF-β activated kinase (TAK1). TAK1 is essential for several important biological functions including innate immunity, development and cell survival. We find that POPX2 interacts directly with TAK1 and is able to dephosphorylate TAK1. Cells with lower levels of POPX2 exhibit higher TAK1 activity in response to etoposide (VP-16) treatment. This subsequently leads to increased translocation of NF-κB from the cytosol to the nucleus. Consequently, NF-κB-mediated transcription of anti-apoptotic proteins is upregulated to promote cell survival. On the other hand, cells with higher levels of POPX2 are more vulnerable to apoptosis induced by etoposide. Our data demonstrate that POPX2 is a negative regulator of TAK1 signaling pathway and modulates apoptosis through the regulation of TAK1 activity. As inhibition of TAK1 has been proposed to reduce chemoresistance and increase sensitivity to chemotherapy in certain types of cancer, modulation of POPX2 levels may provide an additional avenue and consideration in fine-tuning therapeutic response.
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30
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Richtig G, Hoeller C, Kashofer K, Aigelsreiter A, Heinemann A, Kwong L, Pichler M, Richtig E. Beyond the BRAF
V
600E
hotspot: biology and clinical implications of rare BRAF
gene mutations in melanoma patients. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:936-944. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Richtig
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
- Department of Dermatology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
| | - C. Hoeller
- Department of Dermatology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
| | - K. Kashofer
- Institute for Pathology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
| | - A. Aigelsreiter
- Institute for Pathology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
| | - A. Heinemann
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
| | - L.N. Kwong
- Translational Molecular Pathology; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston TX U.S.A
| | - M. Pichler
- Division of Oncology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston TX U.S.A
| | - E. Richtig
- Department of Dermatology; Medical University of Graz; Graz Austria
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31
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Wang Y, Wang S, Lei M, Boyett M, Tsui H, Liu W, Wang X. The p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) signalling pathway in cardiac disease: from mechanistic study to therapeutic exploration. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 175:1362-1374. [PMID: 28574147 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) is a member of the highly conserved family of serine/threonine protein kinases regulated by Ras-related small G-proteins, Cdc42/Rac1. It has been previously demonstrated to be involved in cardiac protection. Based on recent studies, this review provides an overview of the role of Pak1 in cardiac diseases including disrupted Ca2+ homoeostasis-related cardiac arrhythmias, adrenergic stress- and pressure overload-induced hypertrophy, and ischaemia/reperfusion injury. These findings demonstrate the important role of Pak1 mediated through the phosphorylation and transcriptional modification of hypertrophy and/or arrhythmia-related genes. This review also discusses the anti-arrhythmic and anti-hypertrophic, protective function of Pak1 and the beneficial effects of fingolimod (an FDA-approved sphingolipid drug), a Pak1 activator, and its ability to prevent arrhythmias and cardiac hypertrophy. These findings also highlight the therapeutic potential of Pak1 signalling in the treatment and prevention of cardiac diseases. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwen Wang
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Shunyao Wang
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ming Lei
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mark Boyett
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Hoyee Tsui
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Wei Liu
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Xin Wang
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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32
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Goldfinger LE, Michael JV. Regulation of Ras signaling and function by plasma membrane microdomains. Biosci Trends 2017; 11:23-40. [PMID: 28179601 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2016.01220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Together H-, N- and KRAS mutations are major contributors to ~30% of all human cancers. Thus, Ras inhibition remains an important anti-cancer strategy. The molecular mechanisms of isotypic Ras oncogenesis are still not completely understood. Monopharmacological therapeutics have not been successful in the clinic. These disappointing outcomes have led to attempts to target elements downstream of Ras, mainly targeting either the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K) or Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathways. While several such approaches are moderately effective, recent efforts have focused on preclinical evaluation of combination therapies to improve efficacies. This review will detail current understanding of the contributions of plasma membrane microdomain targeting of Ras to mitogenic and tumorigenic signaling and tumor progression. Moreover, this review will outline novel approaches to target Ras in cancers, including targeting schemes for new drug development, as well as putative re-purposing of drugs in current use to take advantage of blunting Ras signaling by interfering with Ras plasma membrane microdomain targeting and retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence E Goldfinger
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology and The Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, and Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center
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33
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Ali MRK, Wu Y, Han T, Zang X, Xiao H, Tang Y, Wu R, Fernández FM, El-Sayed MA. Simultaneous Time-Dependent Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, Metabolomics, and Proteomics Reveal Cancer Cell Death Mechanisms Associated with Gold Nanorod Photothermal Therapy. J Am Chem Soc 2016; 138:15434-15442. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.6b08787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa R. K. Ali
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Yue Wu
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Tiegang Han
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Xiaoling Zang
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Haopeng Xiao
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Yan Tang
- School
of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Ronghu Wu
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Facundo M. Fernández
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Mostafa A. El-Sayed
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
- School
of
Chemistry, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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34
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Kim H, Oh JY, Choi SL, Nam YJ, Jo A, Kwon A, Shin EY, Kim EG, Kim HK. Down-regulation of p21-activated serine/threonine kinase 1 is involved in loss of mesencephalic dopamine neurons. Mol Brain 2016; 9:45. [PMID: 27121078 PMCID: PMC4848805 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-016-0230-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the roles of p21-activated serine/threonine kinase 1 (PAK1) have been reported in some neurodegenerative diseases, details regarding neurodegeneration are still limited. Hence, we tried to determine the role of PAK1 and molecular mechanisms of neuronal death involved in neurodegeneration. RESULTS Expression of a dominant-negative form of PAK1 (PAK1(H83,86L, K229R), PAK1-DN) decreased the cell viability and increased cell death induced by oxidative stress. Indeed, oxidative stress decreased the phosphorylation of PAK1 in neuroblastoma cells, cultured dopamine (DA) neurons, or rat midbrains. PAK1-DN reduced the level of Bcl-2 protein, through an ubiquitin/proteasome-dependent mechanism. The level of Bcl-2 may be regulated by PAK1-ERK signaling and/or PAK1, directly. Conversely, expression of an active form of PAK1 (PAK1(T423E), PAK1-CA) could recover both loss of DA neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) and behavioral defects in a 6-OHDA-induced hemiparkinsonian rat model. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that the oxidative stress-induced down-regulation of PAK1 activity could be involved in the loss of mesencephalic DA neurons through modulation of neuronal death, suggesting a novel role of PAK1 as a molecular determinant and mechanisms in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwanhee Kim
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Young Oh
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Lim Choi
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Ju Nam
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Anna Jo
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Ara Kwon
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Young Shin
- Department of Medicine and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Eung-Gook Kim
- Department of Medicine and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea
| | - Hyong Kyu Kim
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Signaling Disorder Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea. .,Department of Medicine and Microbiology, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro 1, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644, The Republic of Korea.
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35
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Ning SL, Zheng WS, Su J, Liang N, Li H, Zhang DL, Liu CH, Dong JH, Zhang ZK, Cui M, Hu QX, Chen CC, Liu CH, Wang C, Pang Q, Chen YX, Yu X, Sun JP. Different downstream signalling of CCK1 receptors regulates distinct functions of CCK in pancreatic beta cells. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:5050-67. [PMID: 26248680 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cholecystokinin (CCK) is secreted by intestinal I cells and regulates important metabolic functions. In pancreatic islets, CCK controls beta cell functions primarily through CCK1 receptors, but the signalling pathways downstream of these receptors in pancreatic beta cells are not well defined. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Apoptosis in pancreatic beta cell apoptosis was evaluated using Hoechst-33342 staining, TUNEL assays and Annexin-V-FITC/PI staining. Insulin secretion and second messenger production were monitored using ELISAs. Protein and phospho-protein levels were determined by Western blotting. A glucose tolerance test was carried out to examine the functions of CCK-8s in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. KEY RESULTS The sulfated carboxy-terminal octapeptide CCK26-33 amide (CCK-8s) activated CCK1 receptors and induced accumulation of both IP3 and cAMP. Whereas Gq -PLC-IP3 signalling was required for the CCK-8s-induced insulin secretion under low-glucose conditions, Gs -PKA/Epac signalling contributed more strongly to the CCK-8s-mediated insulin secretion in high-glucose conditions. CCK-8s also promoted formation of the CCK1 receptor/β-arrestin-1 complex in pancreatic beta cells. Using β-arrestin-1 knockout mice, we demonstrated that β-arrestin-1 is a key mediator of both CCK-8s-mediated insulin secretion and of its the protective effect against apoptosis in pancreatic beta cells. The anti-apoptotic effects of β-arrestin-1 occurred through cytoplasmic late-phase ERK activation, which activates the 90-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase-phospho-Bcl-2-family protein pathway. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Knowledge of different CCK1 receptor-activated downstream signalling pathways in the regulation of distinct functions of pancreatic beta cells could be used to identify biased CCK1 receptor ligands for the development of new anti-diabetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-lei Ning
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wen-shuai Zheng
- Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Su
- Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Nan Liang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hui Li
- Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dao-lai Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chun-hua Liu
- Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jun-hong Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zheng-kui Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Min Cui
- Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qiao-Xia Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao-chao Chen
- Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chang-hong Liu
- Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Qi Pang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yu-xin Chen
- Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Physiology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jin-peng Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial School Key laboratory for Protein Science of Chronic degenerative diseases, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Advani SJ, Camargo MF, Seguin L, Mielgo A, Anand S, Hicks AM, Aguilera J, Franovic A, Weis SM, Cheresh DA. Kinase-independent role for CRAF-driving tumour radioresistance via CHK2. Nat Commun 2015; 6:8154. [PMID: 26333361 PMCID: PMC4559870 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although oncology therapy regimens commonly include radiation and genotoxic drugs, tumour cells typically develop resistance to these interventions. Here we report that treatment of tumours with ionizing radiation or genotoxic drugs drives p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1)-mediated phosphorylation of CRAF on Serine 338 (pS338) triggering a kinase-independent mechanism of DNA repair and therapeutic resistance. CRAF pS338 recruits CHK2, a cell cycle checkpoint kinase involved in DNA repair, and promotes CHK2 phosphorylation/activation to enhance the tumour cell DNA damage response. Accordingly, a phospho-mimetic mutant of CRAF (S338D) is sufficient to induce the CRAF/CHK2 association enhancing tumour radioresistance, while an allosteric CRAF inhibitor sensitizes tumour cells to ionizing radiation or genotoxic drugs. Our findings establish a role for CRAF in the DNA damage response that is independent from its canonical function as a kinase. Tumors hijack cellular pathways to evade the effects of cancer therapy. Here, Advani et al. show that DNA damage-induced phosphorylation of CRAF Serine 338 triggers DNA repair by recruiting CHK2, highlighting a role for CRAF independent from its canonical function as a kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil J Advani
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Maria Fernanda Camargo
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Laetitia Seguin
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Ainhoa Mielgo
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Sudarshan Anand
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Angel M Hicks
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Joseph Aguilera
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Aleksandra Franovic
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Sara M Weis
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - David A Cheresh
- Department of Pathology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Science Drive, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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37
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Goc A, Sabbineni H, Abdalla M, Somanath PR. p70 S6-kinase mediates the cooperation between Akt1 and Mek1 pathways in fibroblast-mediated extracellular matrix remodeling. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2015; 1853:1626-35. [PMID: 25843685 PMCID: PMC4428983 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2015.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated both synergistic and opposing effects of Akt and Mek1/2 in various cell functions and disease states. Furthermore, Akt has been reported to inhibit and activate cRaf/Mek pathway, suggesting that their mutual interaction and cooperation may be cell type, stimuli and/or context specific. While PI3-kinase/Akt and cRaf/Mek pathways have been implicated in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, mutual interactions between these two pathways and their specific contributions to the events leading to ECM synthesis and assembly is not clear. We investigated the specific role of Akt1 and Mek1 in ECM synthesis and assembly by NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and how these effects were reconciled to mediate overall ECM remodeling. Our study identified that cooperation between Akt1 and Mek1 is necessary to mediate ECM synthesis. Whereas Akt1 activation resulted in Mek1 activation as evidenced by increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation, Mek1 inhibition using U0126 or DN-Mek1 resulted in enhanced Akt1 phosphorylation. Interestingly, both Akt1 and Mek1 activities were needed for the synthesis and assembly of ECM. The effect of Akt1 and Mek1 on ECM synthesis was reconciled through the activation of p70 S6-kinase via phosphorylation at T421/S424 and S411, respectively. Furthermore, Akt1 and Mek1 cooperated in mediating ECM assembly via activation of integrin β1. Together, we show for the first time that Akt1 and Mek1 pathways cooperate in the regulation of ECM remodeling by the fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Goc
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Harika Sabbineni
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Maha Abdalla
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Payaningal R Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA; Department of Medicine and Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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38
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p21-activated kinase 1 determines stem-like phenotype and sunitinib resistance via NF-κB/IL-6 activation in renal cell carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2015; 6:e1637. [PMID: 25675297 PMCID: PMC4669810 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2015.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2014] [Revised: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1), a serine/threonine kinase that orchestrates cytoskeletal remodeling and cell motility, has been shown to function as downstream node for various oncogenic signaling pathways to promote cell proliferation, regulate apoptosis and accelerate mitotic abnormalities, resulting in tumor formation and invasiveness. Although alterations in PAK1 expression and activity have been detected in various human malignancies, its potential biological and clinical significance in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains obscure. In this study, we found increased PAK1 and phosphorylated PAK1 levels in tumor tissues according to TNM stage progression. Elevated phosphorylated PAK1 levels associated with progressive features and indicated unfavorable overall survival (OS) as an independent adverse prognosticator for patients with RCC. Moreover, PAK1 kinase activation with constitutive active PAK1 mutant T423E promoted growth, colony formation, migration, invasion and stem-like phenotype of RCC cells, and vice versa, in PAK1 inhibition by PAK1 kinase inactivation with specific PAK1 shRNA, dead kinase PAK1 mutant K299R or allosteric inhibitor IPA3. Stem-like phenotype due to sunitinib administration via increased PAK1 kinase activation could be ameliorated by PAK1 shRNA, PAK1 mutant K299R and IPA3. Furthermore, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/interleukin-6 (IL-6) activation was found to be responsible for PAK1-mediated stem-like phenotype following sunitinib treatment. Both IL-6 neutralizing antibody and IPA3 administration enhanced tumor growth inhibition effect of sunitinib treatment on RCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results unraveled that oncogenic activation of PAK1 defines an important mechanism for maintaining stem-like phenotype and sunitinib resistance through NF-κB/IL-6 activation in RCC, lending PAK1-mediated NF-κB/IL-6 activation considerable appeal as novel pharmacological therapeutic targets against sunitinib resistance.
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An S, Yang Y, Ward R, Liu Y, Guo XX, Xu TR. Raf-interactome in tuning the complexity and diversity of Raf function. FEBS J 2014; 282:32-53. [PMID: 25333451 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Raf kinases have been intensely studied subsequent to their discovery 30 years ago. The Ras-Raf-mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase-extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK/MAPK) signaling pathway is at the heart of the signaling networks that control many fundamental cellular processes and Raf kinases takes centre stage in the MAPK pathway, which is now appreciated to be one of the most common sources of the oncogenic mutations in cancer. The dependency of tumors on this pathway has been clearly demonstrated by targeting its key nodes; however, blockade of the central components of the MAPK pathway may have some unexpected side effects. Over recent years, the Raf-interactome or Raf-interacting proteins have emerged as promising targets for protein-directed cancer therapy. This review focuses on the diversity of Raf-interacting proteins and discusses the mechanisms by which these proteins regulate Raf function, as well as the implications of targeting Raf-interacting proteins in the treatment of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su An
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Yunnan, China
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40
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Dammann K, Khare V, Gasche C. Republished: tracing PAKs from GI inflammation to cancer. Postgrad Med J 2014; 90:657-68. [PMID: 25335797 PMCID: PMC4222351 DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2014-306768rep] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Revised: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
P-21 activated kinases (PAKs) are effectors of Rac1/Cdc42 which coordinate signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus. Activation of PAKs drive important signalling pathways including mitogen activated protein kinase, phospoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT), NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin. Intestinal PAK1 expression increases with inflammation and malignant transformation, although the biological relevance of PAKs in the development and progression of GI disease is only incompletely understood. This review highlights the importance of altered PAK activation within GI inflammation, emphasises its effect on oncogenic signalling and discusses PAKs as therapeutic targets of chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Dammann
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vineeta Khare
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Gasche
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
Transformation of a normal cell to a cancer cell is caused by mutations in genes that regulate proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion. Small GTPases such as Ras, Rho, Rac and Cdc42 orchestrate many of the signals that are required for malignant transformation. The p21-activated kinases (PAKs) are effectors of Rac and Cdc42. PAKs are a family of serine/threonine protein kinases comprised of six isoforms (PAK1–6), and they play important roles in cytoskeletal dynamics, cell survival and proliferation. They act as key signal transducers in several cancer signaling pathways, including Ras, Raf, NFκB, Akt, Bad and p53. Although PAKs are not mutated in cancers, they are overexpressed, hyperactivated or amplified in several human tumors and their role in cell transformation make them attractive therapeutic targets. This review discusses the evidence that PAK is important for cell transformation and some key signaling pathways it regulates. This review primarily discusses Group I PAKs (PAK1, PAK2 and PAK3) as Group II PAKs (PAK4, PAK5 and PAK6) are discussed elsewhere in this issue (by Minden).
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Zi Ye
- Department of Pharmacology; Perelman School of Medicine; University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA USA
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42
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Abstract
P-21 activated kinases (PAKs) are effectors of Rac1/Cdc42 which coordinate signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus. Activation of PAKs drive important signalling pathways including mitogen activated protein kinase, phospoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT), NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin. Intestinal PAK1 expression increases with inflammation and malignant transformation, although the biological relevance of PAKs in the development and progression of GI disease is only incompletely understood. This review highlights the importance of altered PAK activation within GI inflammation, emphasises its effect on oncogenic signalling and discusses PAKs as therapeutic targets of chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Dammann
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vineeta Khare
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Gasche
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Chemoprevention, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Overexpression of p21-activated kinase 5 (PAK5) is discovered in many tumors, probably due to its regulation in cytoskeleton, antiapoptosis and proliferation. A better understanding of the modulation mechanisms of PAK5 is needed for the development of tumor treatment where current therapeutics is inadequate. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the current understanding of PAK5 functions as an oncogenic kinase in tumor cellular regulation. Mechanisms of action and molecular pathways involved in cytoskeleton regulation, antiapoptosis and proliferation of tumors are discussed. EXPERT OPINION PAKs are serine/threonine kinases and downstream effectors for Cdc42 and Rac, the subfamilies of Rho small GTPases. PAK5 shares sequence identities in p21-GTPase-binding domain and kinase domain and is completely different in other regions compared with other PAKs. Overexpression of PAK5 has been found in several tumors, probably due to its contribution to proliferation, cytoskeleton and anti-apoptosis. Additional regulation mechanisms which are independent of Rho GTPases also indicate that PAK5 functions as a special signal molecule in cellular signaling pathways of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Yang Wen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biological Cancer Therapy, Xuzhou Medical College , 84 West Huai-hai Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu , China +86 0516 85582513 ; ;
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Abstract
The p21 activated kinases (Paks) are well known effector proteins for the Rho GTPases Cdc42 and Rac. The Paks contain 6 members, which fall into 2 families of proteins. The first family consists of Paks 1, 2, and 3, and the second consists of Paks 4, 5, and 6. While some of the Paks are ubiquitously expressed, others have more restrictive tissue specificity. All of them are found in the nervous system. Studies using cell culture, transgenic mice, and knockout mice, have revealed important roles for the Paks in cytoskeletal organization and in many aspects of cell growth and development. This review discusses the basic structures of the Paks, and their roles in cell growth, development, and in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetan K Rane
- Susan Lehman Cullman Laboratory for Cancer Research; Department of Chemical Biology; Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy; Rutgers The State University of New Jersey; Piscataway, NJ USA
| | - Audrey Minden
- Susan Lehman Cullman Laboratory for Cancer Research; Department of Chemical Biology; Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy; Rutgers The State University of New Jersey; Piscataway, NJ USA
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Martínez-Fábregas J, Díaz-Moreno I, González-Arzola K, Janocha S, Navarro JA, Hervás M, Bernhardt R, Velázquez-Campoy A, Díaz-Quintana A, De la Rosa MA. Structural and functional analysis of novel human cytochrome C targets in apoptosis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2014; 13:1439-56. [PMID: 24643968 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m113.034322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first description of apoptosis four decades ago, great efforts have been made to elucidate, both in vivo and in vitro, the molecular mechanisms involved in its regulation. Although the role of cytochrome c during apoptosis is well established, relatively little is known about its participation in signaling pathways in vivo due to its essential role during respiration. To obtain a better understanding of the role of cytochrome c in the onset of apoptosis, we used a proteomic approach based on affinity chromatography with cytochrome c as bait in this study. In this approach, novel cytochrome c interaction partners were identified whose in vivo interaction and cellular localization were facilitated through bimolecular fluorescence complementation. Modeling of the complex interface between cytochrome c and its counterparts indicated the involvement of the surface surrounding the heme crevice of cytochrome c, in agreement with the vast majority of known redox adducts of cytochrome c. However, in contrast to the high turnover rate of the mitochondrial cytochrome c redox adducts, those occurring under apoptosis led to the formation of stable nucleo-cytoplasmic ensembles, as inferred mainly from surface plasmon resonance and nuclear magnetic resonance measurements, which permitted us to corroborate the formation of such complexes in vitro. The results obtained suggest that human cytochrome c interacts with pro-survival, anti-apoptotic proteins following its release into the cytoplasm. Thus, cytochrome c may interfere with cell survival pathways and unlock apoptosis in order to prevent the spatial and temporal coexistence of antagonist signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Martínez-Fábregas
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Irene Díaz-Moreno
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Katiuska González-Arzola
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Simon Janocha
- §Institut für Biochemie, Universität des Saarlandes, Campus B2.2, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - José A Navarro
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Manuel Hervás
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Rita Bernhardt
- §Institut für Biochemie, Universität des Saarlandes, Campus B2.2, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Adrián Velázquez-Campoy
- ¶Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint-Unit IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain, and Fundacion ARAID, Government of Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Díaz-Quintana
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain
| | - Miguel A De la Rosa
- From the ‡Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis, cicCartuja, Universidad de Sevilla-CSIC, Avda. Américo Vespucio 49, Sevilla 41092, Spain;
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Role of p-21-activated kinases in cancer progression. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 309:347-87. [PMID: 24529727 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-800255-1.00007-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The p-21-activated kinases (PAKs) are downstream effectors of Rho GTPases Rac and Cdc42. The PAK family consists of six members which are segregated into two subgroups (Group I and Group II) based on sequence homology. Group I PAKs (PAK1-3) are the most extensively studied but there is increasing interest in the functionality of Group II PAKs (PAK4-6). The PAK family proteins are thought to play an important role in many different cellular processes, some of which have particular significance in the context of cancer progression. This review explores established and more recent data, linking the PAK family kinases to cancer progression including expression profiles, evasion of apoptosis, promotion of cell survival, and regulation of cell invasion. Finally, we discuss attempts to therapeutically target the PAK family and outline the major obstacles that still need to be overcome.
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47
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Liu X, Busby J, John C, Wei J, Yuan X, Lu ML. Direct interaction between AR and PAK6 in androgen-stimulated PAK6 activation. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77367. [PMID: 24130878 PMCID: PMC3795072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
A p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) was previously identified to be an androgen receptor (AR) interacting protein through a yeast two-hybrid screening. We used hormone responsive prostate cancer LAPC4 and LNCap cell lines as models to study the signaling events associated with androgen stimulation and PAK6. An androgen-stimulated PAK6 kinase activation was observed in LAPC4 cells expressing endogenous PAK6 and in LNCap cells ectopically expressing a wild type PAK6. This activation was likely mediated through a direct interaction between AR and PAK6 since siRNA knock-down of AR in LAPC4 cells downregulated androgen-stimulated PAK6 activation. In addition, LNCap cells expressing a non-AR-interacting PAK6 mutant exhibited dampened androgen-stimulated kinase activation. As a consequence of androgen-stimulated activation, PAK6 was phosphorylated at multiple serine/threonine residues including the AR-interacting domain of PAK6. Furthermore, androgen-stimulation promoted prostate cancer cell motility and invasion were demonstrated in LNCap cells ectopically expressing PAK6-WT. In contrast, LNCap expressing non-AR-interacting mutant PAK6 did not respond to androgen stimulation with increased cell motility and invasion. Our results demonstrate that androgen-stimulated PAK6 activation is mediated through a direct interaction between AR and PAK6 and PAK6 activation promotes prostate cancer cells motility and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Liu
- Urologic Research, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Busby
- Department of Molecular Therapeutics, Scripps South Florida, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ciny John
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jianning Wei
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, United States of America
| | - Xin Yuan
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Michael L. Lu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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48
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Ke Y, Lei M, Wang X, Solaro RJ. Unique catalytic activities and scaffolding of p21 activated kinase-1 in cardiovascular signaling. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:116. [PMID: 24098283 PMCID: PMC3784770 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
P21 activated kinase-1 (Pak1) has diverse functions in mammalian cells. Although a large number of phosphoproteins have been designated as Pak1 substrates from in vitro studies, emerging evidence has indicated that Pak1 may function as a signaling molecule through a unique molecular mechanism – scaffolding. By scaffolding, Pak1 delivers signals through an auto-phosphorylation-induced conformational change without transfer of a phosphate group to its immediate downstream effector(s). Here we review evidence for this regulatory mechanism based on structural and functional studies of Pak1 in different cell types and research models as well as in vitro biochemical assays. We also discuss the implications of Pak1 scaffolding in disease-related signaling processes and the potential in cardiovascular drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunbo Ke
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA ; Center for Cardiovascular Research, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA
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49
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Martínez-Fábregas J, Díaz-Moreno I, González-Arzola K, Janocha S, Navarro JA, Hervás M, Bernhardt R, Díaz-Quintana A, De la Rosa MÁ. New Arabidopsis thaliana cytochrome c partners: a look into the elusive role of cytochrome c in programmed cell death in plants. Mol Cell Proteomics 2013; 12:3666-76. [PMID: 24019145 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m113.030692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death is an event displayed by many different organisms along the evolutionary scale. In plants, programmed cell death is necessary for development and the hypersensitive response to stress or pathogenic infection. A common feature in programmed cell death across organisms is the translocation of cytochrome c from mitochondria to the cytosol. To better understand the role of cytochrome c in the onset of programmed cell death in plants, a proteomic approach was developed based on affinity chromatography and using Arabidopsis thaliana cytochrome c as bait. Using this approach, ten putative new cytochrome c partners were identified. Of these putative partners and as indicated by bimolecular fluorescence complementation, nine of them bind the heme protein in plant protoplasts and human cells as a heterologous system. The in vitro interaction between cytochrome c and such soluble cytochrome c-targets was further corroborated using surface plasmon resonance. Taken together, the results obtained in the study indicate that Arabidopsis thaliana cytochrome c interacts with several distinct proteins involved in protein folding, translational regulation, cell death, oxidative stress, DNA damage, energetic metabolism, and mRNA metabolism. Interestingly, some of these novel Arabidopsis thaliana cytochrome c-targets are closely related to those for Homo sapiens cytochrome c (Martínez-Fábregas et al., unpublished). These results indicate that the evolutionarily well-conserved cytosolic cytochrome c, appearing in organisms from plants to mammals, interacts with a wide range of targets on programmed cell death. The data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD000280.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Martínez-Fábregas
- Instituto de Bioquímica Vegetal y Fotosíntesis (IBVF), Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Isla de la Cartuja (cicCartuja), Universidad de Sevilla-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Seville, 41092, Spain
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Koziel K, Smigelskaite J, Drasche A, Enthammer M, Ashraf MI, Khalid S, Troppmair J. RAF and antioxidants prevent cell death induction after growth factor abrogation through regulation of Bcl-2 proteins. Exp Cell Res 2013; 319:2728-38. [PMID: 23933517 PMCID: PMC3809515 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2013.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
We have shown previously that mitochondrial ROS production is essential to turn growth factor (GF) removal into cell death. Activated RAF, AKT, Bcl-2 and antioxidants protected equally well against ROS accumulation and subsequent death. Here we investigated whether protection by survival signaling and antioxidants utilizes shared or distinct targets. Using serum deprivation from NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and IL-3 withdrawal from promyeloid 32D cells, we showed that pro-survival signaling by activated RAF but not AKT prevented the decline in Mcl-1 following GF abrogation. GF starvation increased levels of Bim in both model systems, which was prevented by RAF in 32D cells but not in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. RAF and AKT suppressed activation and mitochondrial translocation of BAX. Also, antioxidant treatment efficiently prevented BAX activation and death of 32D cells but showed little effect on its mitochondrial translocation. No significant impact of antioxidant treatment on Bim or Mcl-1 expression was observed. ROS produced during GF abrogation also did not alter the activity of intracellular signaling pathways, which have been implicated previously in cell killing by pro-oxidants. Together these data suggest Bcl-2 family proteins as convergence point for RAF and ROS in life and death decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Koziel
- Daniel Swarovski Research Laboratory, Department of Visceral-, Transplant- and Thoracic Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Austria
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