1
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Greulich H. Velcrin compounds activate the SLFN12 tRNase to induce tomoptosis. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1039-1043. [PMID: 38906108 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Velcrins are molecular glues that induce complex formation between PDE3A and SLFN12. The PDE3A-SLFN12 complex activates the SLFN12 RNase, resulting in cleavage of the specific substrate, tRNA-Leu-TAA, global inhibition of translation, and death of cells expressing sufficient levels of both proteins. Here, unanswered questions about the mechanism of action and therapeutic promise of velcrin compounds are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Greulich
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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2
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Perez RE, Eckerdt F, Platanias LC. Schlafens: Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1805. [PMID: 38791884 PMCID: PMC11119473 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The interferon (IFN) family of immunomodulatory cytokines has been a focus of cancer research for over 50 years with direct and indirect implications in cancer therapy due to their properties to inhibit malignant cell proliferation and modulate immune responses. Among the transcriptional targets of the IFNs is a family of genes referred to as Schlafens. The products of these genes, Schlafen proteins, exert important roles in modulating cellular proliferation, differentiation, immune responses, viral replication, and chemosensitivity of malignant cells. Studies have demonstrated that abnormal expression of various Schlafens contributes to the pathophysiology of various cancers. Schlafens are now emerging as promising biomarkers and potentially attractive targets for drug development in cancer research. Here, we highlight research suggesting the use of Schlafens as cancer biomarkers and the rationale for the development of specific drugs targeting Schlafen proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo E. Perez
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (R.E.P.); (F.E.)
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Frank Eckerdt
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (R.E.P.); (F.E.)
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Leonidas C. Platanias
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (R.E.P.); (F.E.)
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Medicine, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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3
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Toivanen K, Kilpinen S, Ojala K, Merikoski N, Salmikangas S, Sampo M, Böhling T, Sihto H. PDE3A Is a Highly Expressed Therapy Target in Myxoid Liposarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5308. [PMID: 38001568 PMCID: PMC10669966 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Liposarcomas (LPSs) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies that arise from adipose tissue. Although LPSs are among the most common soft-tissue sarcoma subtypes, precision medicine treatments are not currently available. To discover LPS-subtype-specific therapy targets, we investigated RNA sequenced transcriptomes of 131 clinical LPS tissue samples and compared the data with a transcriptome database that contained 20,218 samples from 95 healthy tissues and 106 cancerous tissue types. The identified genes were referred to the NCATS BioPlanet library with Enrichr to analyze upregulated signaling pathways. PDE3A protein expression was investigated with immunohistochemistry in 181 LPS samples, and PDE3A and SLFN12 mRNA expression with RT-qPCR were investigated in 63 LPS samples. Immunoblotting and cell viability assays were used to study LPS cell lines and their sensitivity to PDE3A modulators. We identified 97, 247, and 37 subtype-specific, highly expressed genes in dedifferentiated, myxoid, and pleomorphic LPS subtypes, respectively. Signaling pathway analysis revealed a highly activated hedgehog signaling pathway in dedifferentiated LPS, phospholipase c mediated cascade and insulin signaling in myxoid LPS, and pathways associated with cell proliferation in pleomorphic LPS. We discovered a strong association between high PDE3A expression and myxoid LPS, particularly in high-grade tumors. Moreover, myxoid LPS samples showed elevated expression levels of SLFN12 mRNA. In addition, PDE3A- and SLFN12-coexpressing LPS cell lines SA4 and GOT3 were sensitive to PDE3A modulators. Our results indicate that PDE3A modulators are promising drugs to treat myxoid LPS. Further studies are required to develop these drugs for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsi Toivanen
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (N.M.); (S.S.); (T.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Sami Kilpinen
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Kalle Ojala
- HUS Vatsakeskus, Helsinki University Hospital, PL 340, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Nanna Merikoski
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (N.M.); (S.S.); (T.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Sami Salmikangas
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (N.M.); (S.S.); (T.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Mika Sampo
- Department of Pathology, HUSLAB, HUS Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00029 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Tom Böhling
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (N.M.); (S.S.); (T.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Harri Sihto
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (N.M.); (S.S.); (T.B.); (H.S.)
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Meanwell NA. Anagrelide: A Clinically Effective cAMP Phosphodiesterase 3A Inhibitor with Molecular Glue Properties. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:350-361. [PMID: 37077378 PMCID: PMC10108399 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The mode of action by which the orphan drug anagrelide (1), a potent cAMP phosphodiesterase 3A inhibitor, reduces blood platelet count in humans is not well understood. Recent studies indicate that 1 stabilizes a complex between PDE3A and Schlafen 12, protecting it from degradation while activating its RNase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Meanwell
- The Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
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5
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Lee S, Hoyt S, Wu X, Garvie C, McGaunn J, Shekhar M, Tötzl M, Rees MG, Cherniack AD, Meyerson M, Greulich H. Velcrin-induced selective cleavage of tRNA Leu(TAA) by SLFN12 causes cancer cell death. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:301-310. [PMID: 36302897 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01170-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Velcrin compounds kill cancer cells expressing high levels of phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A) and Schlafen family member 12 (SLFN12) by inducing complex formation between these two proteins, but the mechanism of cancer cell killing by the PDE3A-SLFN12 complex is not fully understood. Here, we report that the physiological substrate of SLFN12 RNase is tRNALeu(TAA). SLFN12 selectively digests tRNALeu(TAA), and velcrin treatment promotes the cleavage of tRNALeu(TAA) by inducing PDE3A-SLFN12 complex formation in vitro. We found that distinct sequences in the variable loop and acceptor stem of tRNALeu(TAA) are required for substrate digestion. Velcrin treatment of sensitive cells results in downregulation of tRNALeu(TAA), ribosome pausing at Leu-TTA codons and global inhibition of protein synthesis. Velcrin-induced cleavage of tRNALeu(TAA) by SLFN12 and the concomitant global inhibition of protein synthesis thus define a new mechanism of apoptosis initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sooncheol Lee
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Xiaoyun Wu
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Astra-Zeneca, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Colin Garvie
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Mrinal Shekhar
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marcus Tötzl
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Andrew D Cherniack
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew Meyerson
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heidi Greulich
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
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6
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Singhal SK, Al-Marsoummi S, Vomhof-DeKrey EE, Lauckner B, Beyer T, Basson MD. Schlafen 12 Slows TNBC Tumor Growth, Induces Luminal Markers, and Predicts Favorable Survival. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:402. [PMID: 36672349 PMCID: PMC9856841 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020402] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The Schlafen 12 (SLFN12) protein regulates triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) growth, differentiation, and proliferation. SLFN12 mRNA expression strongly correlates with TNBC patient survival. We sought to explore SLFN12 overexpression effects on in vivo human TNBC tumor xenograft growth and performed RNA-seq on xenografts to investigate related SLFN12 pathways. Stable SLFN12 overexpression reduced tumorigenesis, increased tumor latency, and reduced tumor volume. RNA-seq showed that SLFN12 overexpressing xenografts had higher luminal markers levels, suggesting that TNBC cells switched from an undifferentiated basal phenotype to a more differentiated, less aggressive luminal phenotype. SLFN12-overexpressing xenografts increased less aggressive BC markers, HER2 receptors ERBB2 and EGFR expression, which are not detectable by immunostaining in TNBC. Two cancer progression pathways, the NAD signaling pathway and the superpathway of cholesterol biosynthesis, were downregulated with SLFN12 overexpression. RNA-seq identified gene signatures associated with SLFN12 overexpression. Higher gene signature levels indicated good survival when tested on four independent BC datasets. These signatures behaved differently in African Americans than in Caucasian Americans, indicating a possible biological difference between these races that could contribute to the worse survival observed in African Americans with BC. These results suggest an increased SLFN12 expression modulates TNBC aggressiveness through a gene signature that could offer new treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep K. Singhal
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Sarmad Al-Marsoummi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Emilie E. Vomhof-DeKrey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Bo Lauckner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Trysten Beyer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Marc D. Basson
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and the Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
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7
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Li M, Li F, Chen J, Su H, Chen G, Cao J, Li J, Dong L, Yu Z, Wang Y, Zhou C, Zhu Y, Wei Q, Li Q, Chai K. Mechanistic insights on cytotoxicity of KOLR, Cinnamomum pauciflorum Nees leaf derived active ingredient, by targeting signaling complexes of phosphodiesterase 3B and rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor 3. Phytother Res 2022; 36:3540-3554. [PMID: 35703011 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Protein signaling complexes play important roles in prevention of several cancer types and can be used for development of targeted therapy. The roles of signaling complexes of phosphodiesterase 3B (PDE3B) and Rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor 3 (RAPGEF3), which are two important enzymes of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) metabolism, in cancer have not been fully explored. In the current study, a natural product Kaempferol-3-O-(3'',4''-di-E-p-coumaroyl)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside designated as KOLR was extracted from Cinnamomum pauciflorum Nees leaves. KOLR exhibited higher cytotoxic effects against BxCP-3 pancreatic cancer cell line. In BxPC-3 cells, the KOLR could enhance the formation of RAPGEF 3/ PDE3B protein complex to inhibit the activation of Rap-1 and PI3K-AKT pathway, thereby promoting cell apoptosis and inhibiting cell metastasis. Mutation of RAPGEF3 G557A or low expression of PDE3B inactivated the binding action of KOLR resulting in KOLR resistance. The findings of this study show that PDE3B/RAPGEF3 complex is a potential therapeutic cancer target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingqian Li
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Li
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiabin Chen
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - He Su
- The second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guang zhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guanping Chen
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jili Cao
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiacheng Li
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liyao Dong
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhihong Yu
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chun Zhou
- Nursing Department, People's Liberation Army Joint Logistic Support Force 903th Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhu
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qin Wei
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Resources and Application in Universities of Sichuan Province, Yibin University, Yibin, Sichuan, China
| | - Qun Li
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kequn Chai
- Cancer Institute of Integrated tradition Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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8
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Ernst M, Giubellino A. The Current State of Treatment and Future Directions in Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040822. [PMID: 35453572 PMCID: PMC9029866 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the leading cause of death among cutaneous malignancies. While its incidence is increasing, the most recent cancer statistics show a small but clear decrease in mortality rate. This trend reflects the introduction of novel and more effective therapeutic regimens, including the two cornerstones of melanoma therapy: immunotherapies and targeted therapies. Immunotherapies exploit the highly immunogenic nature of melanoma by modulating and priming the patient’s own immune system to attack the tumor. Treatments combining immunotherapies with targeted therapies, which disable the carcinogenic products of mutated cancer cells, have further increased treatment efficacy and durability. Toxicity and resistance, however, remain critical challenges to the field. The present review summarizes past treatments and novel therapeutic interventions and discusses current clinical trials and future directions.
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9
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Yan B, Ding Z, Zhang W, Cai G, Han H, Ma Y, Cao Y, Wang J, Chen S, Ai Y. Multiple PDE3A modulators act as molecular glues promoting PDE3A-SLFN12 interaction and induce SLFN12 dephosphorylation and cell death. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:958-969.e5. [PMID: 35104454 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The canonical function of phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A) is to hydrolyze the phosphodiester bonds in second messenger molecules, such as cyclic AMP (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Recently, a phosphodiesterase-activity-independent role for PDE3A was reported. In this noncanonical function, PDE3A physically interacts with Schlafen 12 (SLFN12) upon treatment of cells with cytotoxic PDE3A modulators. Here, we confirmed that the cytotoxic PDE3A modulators act as molecular glues to initiate the association of PDE3A and SLFN12. The PDE3A-SLFN12 interaction increases the protein stability of SLFN12 located in the cytoplasm, while at the same time also inducing SLFN12 dephosphorylation (including serines 368 and 573). Mutational analysis demonstrates that dephosphorylation is required for cell death induced by cytotoxic PDE3A modulators. Finally, we found that dephosphorylation promoted the rRNA RNase activity of SLFN12 and show that this nucleolytic activity is essential for SLFN12's cell-death-inducing function. Thus, our study deepens the understanding of the biochemical mechanisms underlying SLFN12-mediated cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangcheng Ding
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100871, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaihong Cai
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Han
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Ma
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Cao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawen Wang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - She Chen
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100871, People's Republic of China
| | - Youwei Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Schlafens: Emerging Proteins in Cancer Cell Biology. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092238. [PMID: 34571887 PMCID: PMC8465726 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Schlafens (SLFN) are a family of genes widely expressed in mammals, including humans and rodents. These intriguing proteins play different roles in regulating cell proliferation, cell differentiation, immune cell growth and maturation, and inhibiting viral replication. The emerging evidence is implicating Schlafens in cancer biology and chemosensitivity. Although Schlafens share common domains and a high degree of homology, different Schlafens act differently. In particular, they show specific and occasionally opposing effects in some cancer types. This review will briefly summarize the history, structure, and non-malignant biological functions of Schlafens. The roles of human and mouse Schlafens in different cancer types will then be outlined. Finally, we will discuss the implication of Schlafens in the anti-tumor effect of interferons and the use of Schlafens as predictors of chemosensitivity.
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11
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Structure of PDE3A-SLFN12 complex reveals requirements for activation of SLFN12 RNase. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4375. [PMID: 34272366 PMCID: PMC8285493 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24495-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
DNMDP and related compounds, or velcrins, induce complex formation between the phosphodiesterase PDE3A and the SLFN12 protein, leading to a cytotoxic response in cancer cells that express elevated levels of both proteins. The mechanisms by which velcrins induce complex formation, and how the PDE3A-SLFN12 complex causes cancer cell death, are not fully understood. Here, we show that PDE3A and SLFN12 form a heterotetramer stabilized by binding of DNMDP. Interactions between the C-terminal alpha helix of SLFN12 and residues near the active site of PDE3A are required for complex formation, and are further stabilized by interactions between SLFN12 and DNMDP. Moreover, we demonstrate that SLFN12 is an RNase, that PDE3A binding increases SLFN12 RNase activity, and that SLFN12 RNase activity is required for DNMDP response. This new mechanistic understanding will facilitate development of velcrin compounds into new cancer therapies. The small molecule DNMDP acts as a velcrin by inducing complex formation between phosphodiesterase PDE3A and SLFN12, which kills cancer cells that express sufficient levels of both proteins. Here, the authors present the cryo-EM structure of the DNMDP-stabilized PDE3A-SLFN12 complex and show that SLFN12 is an RNase. PDE3A binding increases SLFN12 RNase activity, and SLFN12 RNase activity is required for DNMDP-mediated cancer cell killing.
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12
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Ai Y, He H, Chen P, Yan B, Zhang W, Ding Z, Li D, Chen J, Ma Y, Cao Y, Zhu J, Li J, Ou J, Du S, Wang X, Ma J, Gao S, Qi X. An alkaloid initiates phosphodiesterase 3A-schlafen 12 dependent apoptosis without affecting the phosphodiesterase activity. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3236. [PMID: 32591543 PMCID: PMC7319972 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17052-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The promotion of apoptosis in tumor cells is a popular strategy for developing anti-cancer drugs. Here, we demonstrate that the plant indole alkaloid natural product nauclefine induces apoptosis of diverse cancer cells via a PDE3A-SLFN12 dependent death pathway. Nauclefine binds PDE3A but does not inhibit the PDE3A's phosphodiesterase activity, thus representing a previously unknown type of PDE3A modulator that can initiate apoptosis without affecting PDE3A's canonical function. We demonstrate that PDE3A's H840, Q975, Q1001, and F1004 residues-as well as I105 in SLFN12-are essential for nauclefine-induced PDE3A-SLFN12 interaction and cell death. Extending these molecular insights, we show in vivo that nauclefine inhibits tumor xenograft growth, doing so in a PDE3A- and SLFN12-dependent manner. Thus, beyond demonstrating potent cytotoxic effects of an alkaloid natural product, our study illustrates a potentially side-effect-reducing strategy for targeting PDE3A for anti-cancer therapeutics without affecting its phosphodiesterase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwei Ai
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Hexing Road, 150040, Harbin, China.
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Haibing He
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University, 3663N Zhongshan Road, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Peihao Chen
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Yan
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhangcheng Ding
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Dianrong Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Chen
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Cao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaojiao Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Jinjie Ou
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University, 3663N Zhongshan Road, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Du
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University, 3663N Zhongshan Road, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianzhang Ma
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Hexing Road, 150040, Harbin, China.
| | - Shuanhu Gao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University, 3663N Zhongshan Road, 200062, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiangbing Qi
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, 7 Science Park Road, Zhongguancun Life Science Park, 102206, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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