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Neuregulin-1/ErbB4 upregulates acetylcholine receptors via Akt/mTOR/p70S6K: a study in a rat model of obstetric brachial plexus palsy and in vitro. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2022; 54:1648-1657. [PMID: 36331297 PMCID: PMC9828288 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2022158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In obstetric brachial plexus palsy (OBPP), the operative time window for nerve reconstruction of the intrinsic muscles of the hand (IMH) is much shorter than that of biceps. The reason is that the atrophy of IMH becomes irreversible more quickly than that of biceps. A previous study confirmed that the motor endplates of denervated intrinsic muscles of the forepaw (IMF) were destabilized, while those of denervated biceps remained intact. However, the specific molecular mechanism of regulating the self-repair of motor endplates is still unknown. In this study, we use a rat model of OBPP with right C5-C6 rupture plus C7-C8-T1 avulsion and left side as a control. Bilateral IMF and biceps are harvested at 5 weeks postinjury to assess relative protein and mRNA expression. We also use L6 skeletal myoblasts to verify the effects of signaling pathways regulating acetylcholine receptor (AChR) protein synthesis in vitro. The results show that in the OBPP rat model, the protein and mRNA expression levels of NRG-1/ErbB4 and phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR/p70S6K are lower in denervated IMF than in denervated biceps. In L6 myoblasts stimulated with NRG-1, overexpression and knockdown of ErbB4 lead to upregulation and downregulation of AChR subunit protein synthesis and Akt/mTOR/p70S6K phosphorylation, respectively. Inhibition of mTOR abolishes protein synthesis of AChR subunits elevated by NRG-1/ErbB4. Our findings suggest that in the OBPP rat model, lower expression of AChR subunits in the motor endplates of denervated IMF is associated with downregulation of NRG-1/ErbB4 and phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR/p70S6K. NRG-1/ErbB4 can promote protein synthesis of the AChR subunits in L6 myoblasts via phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR/p70S6K.
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Montero JC, Pandiella A. PDCD4 limits prooncogenic neuregulin-ErbB signaling. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:1799-1815. [PMID: 32804243 PMCID: PMC11073242 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03617-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuregulins and their ErbB/HER receptors play essential roles in mammalian development and tissue homeostasis. In addition, deregulation of their function has been linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as cancer or schizophrenia. These circumstances have stimulated research into the biology of this ligand-receptor system. Here we show the identification of programmed cell death protein-4 (PDCD4) as a novel neuregulin-ErbB signaling mediator. Phosphoproteomic analyses identified PDCD4 as protein whose phosphorylation increased in cells treated with neuregulin. Mutagenesis experiments defined serine 67 of PDCD4 as a site whose phosphorylation increased upon activation of neuregulin receptors. Phosphorylation of that site promoted degradation of PDCD4 by the proteasome, which depended on exit of PDCD4 from the nucleus to the cytosol. Mechanistic studies defined mTORC1 and ERK1/2 as routes implicated in neuregulin-induced serine 67 phosphorylation and PDCD4 degradation. Functionally, PDCD4 regulated several important biological functions of neuregulin, such as proliferation, migration, or invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Montero
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC) and CIBERONC, Campus Miguel de Unamuno, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC) and CIBERONC, Campus Miguel de Unamuno, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
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MiRNAs, lncRNAs, and circular RNAs as mediators in hypertension-related vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction. Hypertens Res 2020; 44:129-146. [DOI: 10.1038/s41440-020-00553-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Kataria H, Alizadeh A, Karimi-Abdolrezaee S. Neuregulin-1/ErbB network: An emerging modulator of nervous system injury and repair. Prog Neurobiol 2019; 180:101643. [PMID: 31229498 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2019.101643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuregulin-1 (Nrg-1) is a member of the Neuregulin family of growth factors with essential roles in the developing and adult nervous system. Six different types of Nrg-1 (Nrg-1 type I-VI) and over 30 isoforms have been discovered; however, their specific roles are not fully determined. Nrg-1 signals through a complex network of protein-tyrosine kinase receptors, ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4 and multiple intracellular pathways. Genetic and pharmacological studies of Nrg-1 and ErbB receptors have identified a critical role for Nrg-1/ErbB network in neurodevelopment including neuronal migration, neural differentiation, myelination as well as formation of synapses and neuromuscular junctions. Nrg-1 signaling is best known for its characterized role in development and repair of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) due to its essential role in Schwann cell development, survival and myelination. However, our knowledge of the impact of Nrg-1/ErbB on the central nervous system (CNS) has emerged in recent years. Ongoing efforts have uncovered a multi-faceted role for Nrg-1 in regulating CNS injury and repair processes. In this review, we provide a timely overview of the most recent updates on Nrg-1 signaling and its role in nervous system injury and diseases. We will specifically highlight the emerging role of Nrg-1 in modulating the glial and immune responses and its capacity to foster neuroprotection and remyelination in CNS injury. Nrg-1/ErbB network is a key regulatory pathway in the developing nervous system; therefore, unraveling its role in neuropathology and repair can aid in development of new therapeutic approaches for nervous system injuries and associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hardeep Kataria
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Regenerative Medicine Program, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Arsalan Alizadeh
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Regenerative Medicine Program, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Soheila Karimi-Abdolrezaee
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Regenerative Medicine Program, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
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Rahman A, Weber J, Labin E, Lai C, Prieto AL. Developmental expression of Neuregulin‐3 in the rat central nervous system. J Comp Neurol 2018; 527:797-817. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.24559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Afrida Rahman
- Departmentof Psychological and Brain SciencesIndiana University Bloomington Indiana
| | - Janet Weber
- Department NeuroscienceUniversity of California San Diego San Diego California
| | - Edward Labin
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Minnesota Minneapolis
| | - Cary Lai
- Departmentof Psychological and Brain SciencesIndiana University Bloomington Indiana
| | - Anne L Prieto
- Departmentof Psychological and Brain SciencesIndiana University Bloomington Indiana
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Centa A, Rodríguez-Barrueco R, Montero JC, Pandiella A. The immunoglobulin-like domain of neuregulins potentiates ErbB3/HER3 activation and cellular proliferation. Mol Oncol 2018; 12:1061-1076. [PMID: 29683256 PMCID: PMC6026874 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuregulins (NRGs) represent a large family of membrane‐anchored growth factors, whose deregulation may contribute to the pathogenesis of several tumors. In fact, targeting of NRG‐activated pathways has demonstrated clinical benefit. To improve the efficacy of anti‐NRG therapies, it is essential to gain insights into the regions of NRGs that favor their pro‐oncogenic properties. Here, we have addressed the protumorigenic impact of different NRG domains. To do this, deletion mutants affecting different NRG domains were expressed in 293 and MCF7 cells. Of the five forms studied, only the wild‐type and a mutant lacking the Ig‐like domain (NRGΔIg) were properly sorted to the plasma membrane. Both forms were released as soluble forms to the culture media. However, the mutant NRGΔIg failed to efficiently activate HER2 and HER3 receptors, signaling pathways, and cell proliferation when compared to wild‐type NRG. Treatment with trastuzumab, a humanized antibody used in the breast cancer clinic, inhibited the constitutive activation of HER2, HER3, and downstream signaling in MCF7 cells constitutively expressing wild‐type NRG. In contrast, this treatment had a marginal effect on MCF7‐NRGΔIg cells. This study demonstrates that the Ig‐like region of NRGs exerts an important role in their capability to activate ErbB/HER receptors and mitogenic responses. Strategies aimed at targeting NRGs should consider that fact to improve neutralization of the pro‐oncogenic properties of NRGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana Centa
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, IBSAL, CSIC and CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ruth Rodríguez-Barrueco
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, IBSAL, CSIC and CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Montero
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, IBSAL, CSIC and CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Atanasio Pandiella
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, IBSAL, CSIC and CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain
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Sun Y, Yang Z, Zheng B, Zhang XH, Zhang ML, Zhao XS, Zhao HY, Suzuki T, Wen JK. A Novel Regulatory Mechanism of Smooth Muscle α-Actin Expression by NRG-1/circACTA2/miR-548f-5p Axis. Circ Res 2017; 121:628-635. [PMID: 28698179 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.117.311441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) includes an extracellular epidermal growth factor-like domain and an intracellular domain (NRG-1-ICD). In response to transforming growth factor-β1, its cleavage by proteolytic enzymes releases a bioactive fragment, which suppresses the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation by activating ErbB (erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog) receptor. However, NRG-1-ICD function in VSMCs remains unknown. OBJECTIVE Here, we characterize the function of NRG-1-ICD and underlying mechanisms in VSMCs. METHODS AND RESULTS Immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that NRG-1 was expressed in rat, mouse, and human VSMCs and was upregulated and cleaved in response to transforming growth factor-β1. In the cytoplasm of HASMCs (human aortic smooth muscle cells), the NRG-1-ICD participated in filamentous actin formation by interacting with α-SMA (smooth muscle α-actin). In the nucleus, the Nrg-1-ICD induced circular ACTA2 (alpha-actin-2; circACTA2) formation by recruitment of the zinc-finger transcription factor IKZF1 (IKAROS family zinc finger 1) to the first intron of α-SMA gene. We further confirmed that circACTA2, acting as a sponge binding microRNA (miR)-548f-5p, interacted with miR-548f-5p targeting 3' untranslated region of α-SMA mRNA, which in turn relieves miR-548f-5p repression of the α-SMA expression and thus upregulates α-SMA expression, thereby facilitating stress fiber formation and cell contraction in HASMCs. Accordingly, in vivo studies demonstrated that the localization of the interaction of circACTA2 with miR-548f-5p is significantly decreased in human intimal hyperplastic arteries compared with normal arteries, implicating that dysregulation of circACTA2 and miR-548f-5p expression is involved in intimal hyperplasia. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that circACTA2 mediates NRG-1-ICD regulation of α-SMA expression in HASMCs via the NRG-1-ICD/circACTA2/miR-548f-5p axis. Our data provide a molecular basis for fine-tuning α-SMA expression and VSMC contraction by transcription factor, circular RNA, and microRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Sun
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Zhan Yang
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Bin Zheng
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Xin-Hua Zhang
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Man-Li Zhang
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Xue-Shan Zhao
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Hong-Ye Zhao
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Toru Suzuki
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.)
| | - Jin-Kun Wen
- From the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education of China, Hebei Medical University (Y.S., Z.Y., B.Z., X.-h.Z., M.-l.Z., X.-s.Z., H.-y.Z., J.-k.W.); Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China (Z.Y.); and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom (T.S.).
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Juretić N, Díaz J, Romero F, González G, Jaimovich E, Riveros N. Interleukin-6 and neuregulin-1 as regulators of utrophin expression via the activation of NRG-1/ErbB signaling pathway in mdx cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1863:770-780. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Breast cancer dissemination promoted by a neuregulin-collagenase 3 signalling node. Oncogene 2015; 35:2756-65. [PMID: 26364598 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Advances in the treatment of breast cancer have resulted in increased survival. However, in the metastatic setting, the disease remains incurable. Therefore, understanding of the mechanisms that promote dissemination of breast cancer cells may favor the development of novel therapeutic strategies to fight those tumors. Here, we show that the ErbB ligands, Neuregulins (NRGs), promote metastatic dissemination of breast cancer cells by switching on a kinase-metalloproteinase network. Clinicopathological analyses demonstrated that NRG expression in breast tumors associated to lymph node invasion and poor patient outcome. Preclinical in vivo analyses showed that NRG expression favored in situ tumor growth, local spreading and metastatic dissemination. Genomic, biochemical and functional studies identified matrix metalloproteinases, particularly stromelysin 2 and collagenase 3, as key mediators of the NRG-induced dissemination properties of breast cancer cells. Mechanistic analyses demonstrated that NRG augmented metalloproteinase expression through a route controlled by ERK1/2 kinases. ERK1/2 increased collagenase 3 expression by controlling the activity of an SBF1-related transcription factor. In conclusion, we describe a pathway linked to breast cancer dissemination. The clinical availability of agents that target some of the components of this signalling pathway suggests that patients with tumors fed by NRGs or other factors able to activate the ERK-Collagenase 3 route may benefit from agents that act on that signalling axis.
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Long LE, Anderson P, Frank E, Shaw A, Liu S, Huang XF, Pinault D, Karl T, O’Brien TJ, Shannon Weickert C, Jones NC. Neuregulin 1 expression and electrophysiological abnormalities in the Neuregulin 1 transmembrane domain heterozygous mutant mouse. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124114. [PMID: 25992564 PMCID: PMC4437646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Neuregulin 1 transmembrane domain heterozygous mutant (Nrg1 TM HET) mouse is used to investigate the role of Nrg1 in brain function and schizophrenia-like behavioural phenotypes. However, the molecular alterations in brain Nrg1 expression that underpin the behavioural observations have been assumed, but not directly determined. Here we comprehensively characterise mRNA Nrg1 transcripts throughout development of the Nrg1 TM HET mouse. In addition, we investigate the regulation of high-frequency (gamma) electrophysiological oscillations in this mutant mouse to associate molecular changes in Nrg1 with a schizophrenia-relevant neurophysiological profile. Methods Using exonic probes spanning the cysteine-rich, epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like, transmembrane and intracellular domain encoding regions of Nrg1, mRNA levels were measured using qPCR in hippocampus and frontal cortex from male and female Nrg1 TM HET and wild type-like (WT) mice throughout development. We also performed electrophysiological recordings in adult mice and analysed gamma oscillatory at baseline, in responses to auditory stimuli and to ketamine. Results In both hippocampus and cortex, Nrg1 TM HET mice show significantly reduced expression of the exon encoding the transmembrane domain of Nrg1 compared with WT, but unaltered mRNA expression encoding the extracellular bioactive EGF-like and the cysteine-rich (type III) domains, and development-specific and region-specific reductions in the mRNA encoding the intracellular domain. Hippocampal Nrg1 protein expression was not altered, but NMDA receptor NR2B subunit phosphorylation was lower in Nrg1 TM HET mice. We identified elevated ongoing and reduced sensory-evoked gamma power in Nrg1 TM HET mice. Interpretation We found no evidence to support the claim that the Nrg1 TM HET mouse represents a simple haploinsufficient model. Further research is required to explore the possibility that mutation results in a gain of Nrg1 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonora E. Long
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul Anderson
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elisabeth Frank
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alex Shaw
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shijie Liu
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xu-Feng Huang
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Didier Pinault
- INSERM U1114, psychopathologie cognitive et physiopathologie de la schizophrénie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Tim Karl
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Terence J. O’Brien
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail: (CSW); (NCJ)
| | - Nigel C. Jones
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (CSW); (NCJ)
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Deng C, Pan B, Engel M, Huang XF. Neuregulin-1 signalling and antipsychotic treatment: potential therapeutic targets in a schizophrenia candidate signalling pathway. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 226:201-15. [PMID: 23389757 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2012] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the signalling pathways underlying the pathophysiology of schizophrenia is an essential step in the rational development of new antipsychotic drugs for this devastating disease. Evidence from genetic, transgenic and post-mortem studies have strongly supported neuregulin-1 (NRG1)-ErbB4 signalling as a schizophrenia susceptibility pathway. NRG1-ErbB4 signalling plays crucial roles in regulating neurodevelopment and neurotransmission, with implications for the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Post-mortem studies have demonstrated altered NRG1-ErbB4 signalling in the brain of schizophrenia patients. Antipsychotic drugs have different effects on NRG1-ErbB4 signalling depending on treatment duration. Abnormal behaviours relevant to certain features of schizophrenia are displayed in NRG1/ErbB4 knockout mice or those with NRG1/ErbB4 over-expression, some of these abnormalities can be improved by antipsychotic treatment. NRG1-ErbB4 signalling has extensive interactions with the GABAergic, glutamatergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission systems that are involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. These interactions provide a number of targets for the development of new antipsychotic drugs. Furthermore, the key interaction points between NRG1-ErbB4 signalling and other schizophrenia susceptibility genes may also potentially provide specific targets for new antipsychotic drugs. In general, identification of these targets in NRG1-ErbB4 signalling and interacting pathways will provide unique opportunities for the development of new generation antipsychotics with specific efficacy and fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Deng
- Antipsychotic Research Laboratory, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522 NSW, Australia.
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Pan B, Huang XF, Deng C. Antipsychotic treatment and neuregulin 1-ErbB4 signalling in schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2011; 35:924-30. [PMID: 21513767 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2011] [Revised: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 04/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Evidence from genetic, transgenic and post-mortem studies has strongly supported the critical role that neuregulin 1 (NRG1) and its ErbB4 receptor plays in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. This article aims to review current evidence regarding the effects of antipsychotic treatment on NRG1-ErbB4 signalling. NRG1 and ErbB4 knockout mice display abnormal behaviours relevant to certain features of schizophrenia, which could be improved by antipsychotic (clozapine/haloperidol) treatment. In contrast to most NRG1/ErbB4 knockout mice with a decreased NRG1-ErbB4 signalling, the majority post-mortem studies showed an increased NRG1-ErbB4 signalling in schizophrenic patients. These differences could be due to degrees of alteration in risk genes (subtle variations in patients vs pronounced alteration in mutant mice) or the duration of the modification on NRG1 signalling. Various antipsychotics have different effects on NRG1 and ErbB4 expression and signalling that are dependent on treatment duration. Current evidence suggests that a chronic (12weeks) antipsychotic treatment, at least in animal models, could downregulate NRG1-ErbB4 signalling, although an upregulation is seen for a short-term treatment. These effects may be due to multiple binding profiles with various G-coupled protein receptors (e.g. dopamine, and serotonin receptors) of antipsychotics. Studies are needed to investigate the interactions between NRG1-ErbB4 and the other signalling pathways (such as glutamatergic, GABAergic and dopaminergic). Furthermore, the interactions between NRG1/ErbB4 and other schizophrenia suspensibility genes under antipsychotic treatment also require investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Pan
- Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, 2522 NSW, Australia
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Montero JC, Rodríguez-Barrueco R, Pandiella A. Transautocrine signaling by membrane neuregulins requires cell surface targeting, which is controlled by multiple domains. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:24350-63. [PMID: 21572038 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.190835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuregulins (NRGs) play important roles in animal development and homeostasis, and their deregulation has been linked to diseases such as cancer and schizophrenia. The NRGs belong to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of transmembrane growth factors. Although NRGs may be synthesized as transmembrane proteins (the pro-NRGs), some of them lack an N-terminal signal sequence, raising the question of how these pro-NRGs are directed to the plasma membrane. Here we have explored the domains of pro-NRGs that are required for their membrane anchoring, cell surface exposure, and biological activity. We show that an internal hydrophobic region acts as a membrane-anchoring domain, but other regions of pro-NRG are required for proper sorting to the plasma membrane. Using mutants that are located in different subcellular compartments, we show that only plasma membrane-exposed pro-NRG is biologically active. At this location, the pro-NRGs may act as transautocrine molecules (i.e. as membrane factors able to activate receptors present in cells that are in physical contact with the pro-NRG-producing cells (in trans) or capable of activating receptors present in the pro-NRG-producing cells (in cis)).
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Montero
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer-Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca 37007, Spain
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Aged PrP null mice show defective processing of neuregulins in the peripheral nervous system. Mol Cell Neurosci 2011; 47:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2011.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Revised: 02/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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P-Rex1 participates in Neuregulin-ErbB signal transduction and its expression correlates with patient outcome in breast cancer. Oncogene 2010; 30:1059-71. [PMID: 21042280 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Neuregulins and their receptors, the ErbB/HER subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases, have critical roles in animal physiology, and their deregulation is frequent in cancer. Here we report the identification of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor, phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-triphosphate-dependent Rac exchanger 1 (P-Rex1), as a novel mediator in signalling by ErbB/HER receptors. P-Rex1 was formerly described as a phosphoinositide 3-kinase and Gβγ activated protein that regulates Rac function. We define how ErbB/HER receptors regulate P-Rex1 function, which involves dephosphorylation of inhibitory residues, and phosphorylation of activating residues of P-Rex. The net balance resulting from activation of this phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cycle of P-Rex1 favours Rac activation. Molecular and biological studies indicated that P-Rex1 phosphorylation regulated the proliferation of breast cancer cells, and P-Rex1 knockdown affected their migration or invasiveness, as well as their in vivo tumourigenic potential. Moreover, as we found correlation between high P-Rex1 expression and poor patient outcome in breast cancer, P-Rex1 targeting may be therapeutically relevant in cancer.
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Montero JC, Rodríguez-Barrueco R, Ocaña A, Díaz-Rodríguez E, Esparís-Ogando A, Pandiella A. Neuregulins and cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2008; 14:3237-41. [PMID: 18519747 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-07-5133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The neuregulins represent the largest subclass of polypeptide factors of the epidermal growth factor family of ligands. These molecules are synthesized as membrane-bound, biologically active growth factors that act by binding to the HER/ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases. Preclinical data have indicated that increased expression and function of neuregulins may provoke cancer. Furthermore, neuregulin expression has been detected in several neoplasias, and their presence may correlate with response to treatments that target the HER receptors such as trastuzumab. In addition, the neuregulins have also been implicated in resistance to anti-HER therapies. Therefore, targeting of the neuregulins may be helpful in neoplastic diseases in which these polypeptide factors contribute to tumor generation and/or maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Montero
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Neuregulin 1 in neural development, synaptic plasticity and schizophrenia. Nat Rev Neurosci 2008; 9:437-52. [PMID: 18478032 DOI: 10.1038/nrn2392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 772] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a highly debilitating mental disorder that affects approximately 1% of the general population, yet it continues to be poorly understood. Recent studies have identified variations in several genes that are associated with this disorder in diverse populations, including those that encode neuregulin 1 (NRG1) and its receptor ErbB4. The past few years have witnessed exciting progress in our knowledge of NRG1 and ErbB4 functions and the biological basis of the increased risk for schizophrenia that is potentially conferred by polymorphisms in the two genes. An improved understanding of the mechanisms by which altered function of NRG1 and ErbB4 contributes to schizophrenia might eventually lead to the development of more effective therapeutics.
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de Alava E, Ocaña A, Abad M, Montero JC, Esparís-Ogando A, Rodríguez CA, Otero AP, Hernández T, Cruz JJ, Pandiella A. Neuregulin Expression Modulates Clinical Response to Trastuzumab in Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer. J Clin Oncol 2007; 25:2656-63. [PMID: 17602072 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2006.08.6850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) overexpression has been associated with the genesis and progression of a subset of breast cancers. The function of HER-2 may be upregulated by overexpression or by the availability of neuregulins (NRGs), a group of transmembrane growth factors. Transmembrane NRGs strongly activated HER-2 and cell proliferation in breast cancer cells that did not overexpress HER-2, and treatment with trastuzumab prevented the proliferative action of transmembrane NRG. This raised the relevant clinical question of whether patients considered as HER-2 negative, but expressing transmembrane NRG, may benefit from treatment with trastuzumab. Patients and Methods MCF7 cells expressing transmembrane NRG (MCF7-NRGα2c) were injected into mice, and their sensitivity to trastuzumab was assessed. A retrospective study of 124 patients with early-stage or metastatic breast cancer was conducted. Expression of transmembrane NRG was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. In 11 patients, Western blot for NRGs was also carried out. Statistics were performed to analyze possible correlations between NRG expression and response to trastuzumab-based therapies, event-free survival, and overall survival (OS). Results Trastuzumab inhibited tumor growth in mice injected with MCF7-NRGα2c cells. Transmembrane NRG was frequently expressed in breast cancer patients. Overexpression of transmembrane NRG significantly correlated with a longer event-free survival and OS in patients with low or normal HER-2 expression who were treated with trastuzumab-based therapies but not in patients with HER-2 overexpression. Conclusion We suggest that the spectrum of patients who may benefit from trastuzumab-based therapies may be widened to include patients with metastatic breast cancer without HER-2 amplification but who express transmembrane NRGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique de Alava
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Salamanca, and Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Tan W, Wang Y, Gold B, Chen J, Dean M, Harrison PJ, Weinberger DR, Law AJ. Molecular cloning of a brain-specific, developmentally regulated neuregulin 1 (NRG1) isoform and identification of a functional promoter variant associated with schizophrenia. J Biol Chem 2007; 282:24343-51. [PMID: 17565985 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m702953200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is essential for the development and function of multiple organ systems, and its dysregulation has been linked to diseases such as cancer and schizophrenia. Recently, altered expression of a novel isoform (type IV) in the brain has been associated with schizophrenia-related genetic variants, especially rs6994992 (SNP8NRG243177). Here we have isolated and characterized full-length NRG1 type IV cDNAs from the adult and fetal human brain and identified novel splice variants of NRG1. Full-length type IV spans 1.8 kb and encodes a putative protein of 590 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of approximately 66 kDa. The transcript consists of 11 exons with an Ig-like domain, an epidermal growth factor-like (EGF) domain, a beta-stalk, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic "a-tail," placing it in the beta1a NRG1 subclass. NRG1 type IV was not detected in any tissues except brain and a putative type IV NRG1 protein of 66 kDa was similarly brain-specific. Type IV transcripts are more abundantly expressed in the fetal brain, where, in addition to the full-length structure, two novel type IV variants were identified. In vitro luciferase-reporter assays demonstrate that the 5' promoter region upstream of type IV is functional, with differential activity associated with genetic variation at rs6994992, and that promoter competition may impact on type IV expression. Our data suggest that type IV is a unique brain-specific NRG1 that is differentially expressed and processed during early development, is translated, and its expression regulated by a schizophrenia risk-associated functional promoter or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tan
- SAIC-Frederick, NCI, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, Maryland 21702, USA
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