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Boyd-Shiwarski CR, Shiwarski DJ, Subramanya AR. A New Phase for WNK Kinase Signaling Complexes as Biomolecular Condensates. Physiology (Bethesda) 2024; 39:0. [PMID: 38624245 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00013.2024] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to highlight transformative advances that have been made in the field of biomolecular condensates, with special emphasis on condensate material properties, physiology, and kinases, using the With-No-Lysine (WNK) kinases as a prototypical example. To convey how WNK kinases illustrate important concepts for biomolecular condensates, we start with a brief history, focus on defining features of biomolecular condensates, and delve into some examples of how condensates are implicated in cellular physiology (and pathophysiology). We then highlight how WNK kinases, through the action of "WNK droplets" that ubiquitously regulate intracellular volume and kidney-specific "WNK bodies" that are implicated in distal tubule salt reabsorption and potassium homeostasis, exemplify many of the defining features of condensates. Finally, this review addresses the controversies within this emerging field and questions to address.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cary R Boyd-Shiwarski
- Renal-Electrolyte Division, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Daniel J Shiwarski
- Vascular Medicine Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Arohan R Subramanya
- Renal-Electrolyte Division, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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2
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Yin L, Yuan L, Li J, Jiang B. The liquid-liquid phase separation in programmed cell death. Cell Signal 2024; 120:111215. [PMID: 38740235 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the physical phenomenon of liquid-liquid phase separation has been widely introduced into biological research. Membrane-free organelles have been found to exist in cells that were driven by liquid-liquid phase separation. Intermolecular multivalent interactions can drive liquid-liquid phase separation to form condensates that are independent of other substances in the environment and thus can play an effective role in regulating multiple biological processes in the cell. The way of cell death has also long been a focus in multiple research. In the face of various stresses, cell death-related mechanisms are crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and regulating cell fate. With the in-depth study of cell death pathways, it has been found that the process of cell death was also accompanied by the regulation of liquid-liquid phase separation and played a key role. Therefore, this review summarized the roles of liquid-liquid phase separation in various cell death pathways, and explored the regulation of cell fate by liquid-liquid phase separation, with the expectation that the exploration of the mechanism of liquid-liquid phase separation would provide new insights into the treatment of diseases caused by regulated cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leijing Yin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, PR China; Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Lab of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China; National Medicine Functional Experimental Teaching Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China.
| | - Ludong Yuan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, PR China; Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Lab of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China; National Medicine Functional Experimental Teaching Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, PR China; Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Lab of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China; National Medicine Functional Experimental Teaching Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China
| | - Bimei Jiang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, PR China; Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Lab of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China; National Medicine Functional Experimental Teaching Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, PR China.
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3
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Mori M, Sugai H, Sato K, Okada A, Matsuo T, Kinbara K. A bioinspired bifunctional catalyst: an amphiphilic organometallic catalyst for ring-closing metathesis forming liquid droplets in aqueous media. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:7979-7982. [PMID: 38976255 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc01117a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Inspired by phase-separated biopolymers with enzymatic activity, we developed an amphiphilic catalyst consisting of alternating hydrophilic oligo(ethylene glycol) and hydrophobic aromatic units bearing a Hoveyda-Grubbs catalyst center (MAHGII). MAHGII served as both a droplet-forming scaffold and a catalyst for ring-closing metathesis reactions, providing a new biomimetic system that promotes organic reactions in an aqueous environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Mori
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan.
| | - Hiroka Sugai
- Research Center for Autonomous Systems Materialogy (ASMat), Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Kohei Sato
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan.
| | - Asuki Okada
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma 630-0192, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsuo
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma 630-0192, Japan
| | - Kazushi Kinbara
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan.
- Research Center for Autonomous Systems Materialogy (ASMat), Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
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4
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Jaiswal SK, Fedkenheuer K, Khamar R, Tan H, Gotea V, Raj S, Fedkenheuer M, Elkahloun A, Zhao M, Jenkins LM, Annunziata CM, Elnitski L. The Megacomplex protects ER-alpha from degradation by Fulvestrant in epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer Lett 2024:217129. [PMID: 39048045 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217129] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality, exhibits limited responsiveness to hormonal therapies targeting the estrogen receptor (ERα). This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms behind ERα resistance to the therapeutic drug Fulvestrant (ICI182780 or ICI). Notably, compared to the cytoplasmic version, nuclear ERα was minimally degraded by ICI, suggesting a mechanism for drug resistance via the protective confines of the nuclear substructures. Of these substructures, we identified a 1.3MDa Megacomplex comprising transcription factors ERα, FOXA1, and PITX1 using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) in the ovarian cancer cell line, PEO4. ChIP-seq revealed these factors colocalized at 6,775 genomic positions representing sites of Megacomplex formation. Megacomplex ERα exhibited increased resistance to degradation by ICI compared to cytoplasmic and nuclear ERα. A small molecule inhibitor of active chromatin and super-enhancers, JQ1, in combination with ICI significantly enhanced ERα degradation from Megacomplex as revealed by SEC and ChIP-seq. Interestingly, this combination degraded both the cytoplasmic as well as nuclear ERa. Pathway enrichment analysis showed parallel results for RNA-seq gene sets following Estradiol, ICI, or ICI plus JQ1 treatments as those defined by Megacomplex binding identified through ChIP-seq. Furthermore, similar pathway enrichments were confirmed in mass-spec analysis of the Megacomplex macromolecule fractions after modulation by Estradiol or ICI. These findings implicate Megacomplex in ERα-driven ovarian cancer chromatin regulation. This combined treatment strategy exhibited superior inhibition of cell proliferation and viability. Therefore, by uncovering ERα's resistance within the Megacomplex, the combined ICI plus JQ1 treatment elucidates a novel drug treatment vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushil Kumar Jaiswal
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Kevin Fedkenheuer
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ronak Khamar
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Hua Tan
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Valer Gotea
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Sonam Raj
- Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Michael Fedkenheuer
- Genomics and Immunity Section, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Abdel Elkahloun
- Microarrays and Single-Cell Genomics Core, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ming Zhao
- HPLC Core, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, MD 20852
| | - Lisa M Jenkins
- Mass Spec Core, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | | | - Laura Elnitski
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892.
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5
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Sun J, Chen Y, Bi R, Yuan Y, Yu H. Bioinformatic approaches of liquid-liquid phase separation in human disease. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024:00029330-990000000-01155. [PMID: 39033393 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Biomolecular aggregation within cellular environments via liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) spontaneously forms droplet-like structures, which play pivotal roles in diverse biological processes. These structures are closely associated with a range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer and infectious diseases, highlighting the significance of understanding LLPS mechanisms for elucidating disease pathogenesis, and exploring potential therapeutic interventions. In this review, we delineate recent advancements in LLPS research, emphasizing its pathological relevance, therapeutic considerations, and the pivotal role of bioinformatic tools and databases in facilitating LLPS investigations. Additionally, we undertook a comprehensive analysis of bioinformatic resources dedicated to LLPS research in order to elucidate their functionality and applicability. By providing comprehensive insights into current LLPS-related bioinformatics resources, this review highlights its implications for human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yilong Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Ruiye Bi
- Department of Orthognathic and TMJ Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Haopeng Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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6
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Leppert A, Feng J, Railaite V, Bohn Pessatti T, Cerrato CP, Mörman C, Osterholz H, Lane DP, Maia FRNC, Linder MB, Rising A, Landreh M. Controlling Drug Partitioning in Individual Protein Condensates through Laser-Induced Microscale Phase Transitions. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:19555-19565. [PMID: 38963823 PMCID: PMC11258780 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Gelation of protein condensates formed by liquid-liquid phase separation occurs in a wide range of biological contexts, from the assembly of biomaterials to the formation of fibrillar aggregates, and is therefore of interest for biomedical applications. Soluble-to-gel (sol-gel) transitions are controlled through macroscopic processes such as changes in temperature or buffer composition, resulting in bulk conversion of liquid droplets into microgels within minutes to hours. Using microscopy and mass spectrometry, we show that condensates of an engineered mini-spidroin (NT2repCTYF) undergo a spontaneous sol-gel transition resulting in the loss of exchange of proteins between the soluble and the condensed phase. This feature enables us to specifically trap a silk-domain-tagged target protein in the spidroin microgels. Surprisingly, laser pulses trigger near-instant gelation. By loading the condensates with fluorescent dyes or drugs, we can control the wavelength at which gelation is triggered. Fluorescence microscopy reveals that laser-induced gelation significantly further increases the partitioning of the fluorescent molecules into the condensates. In summary, our findings demonstrate direct control of phase transitions in individual condensates, opening new avenues for functional and structural characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Leppert
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department
of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Jianhui Feng
- Bioproducts
and Biosystems, Aalto University, Fi-00076 Aalto, Espoo, Finland
| | - Vaida Railaite
- Department
of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Tomas Bohn Pessatti
- Department
of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carmine P. Cerrato
- Department
of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Mörman
- Department
of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska
Institutet, S-14157 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department
of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer
Institute, 5232 Villingen, Switzerland
| | - Hannah Osterholz
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - David P. Lane
- Department
of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
| | - Filipe R. N. C. Maia
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Markus B. Linder
- Bioproducts
and Biosystems, Aalto University, Fi-00076 Aalto, Espoo, Finland
| | - Anna Rising
- Department
of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department
of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska
Institutet, S-14157 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Michael Landreh
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department
of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Solna, Sweden
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7
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Ruan K, Bai G, Fang Y, Li D, Li T, Liu X, Lu B, Lu Q, Songyang Z, Sun S, Wang Z, Zhang X, Zhou W, Zhang H. Biomolecular condensates and disease pathogenesis. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2661-3. [PMID: 39037698 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2661-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates or membraneless organelles (MLOs) formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) divide intracellular spaces into discrete compartments for specific functions. Dysregulation of LLPS or aberrant phase transition that disturbs the formation or material states of MLOs is closely correlated with neurodegeneration, tumorigenesis, and many other pathological processes. Herein, we summarize the recent progress in development of methods to monitor phase separation and we discuss the biogenesis and function of MLOs formed through phase separation. We then present emerging proof-of-concept examples regarding the disruption of phase separation homeostasis in a diverse array of clinical conditions including neurodegenerative disorders, hearing loss, cancers, and immunological diseases. Finally, we describe the emerging discovery of chemical modulators of phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Ge Bai
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Yanshan Fang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Dan Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xingguo Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Boxun Lu
- Neurology Department at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Qing Lu
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Zhou Songyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Shuguo Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Zheng Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Wen Zhou
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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8
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Shan L, Wang W, Du L, Li D, Wang Y, Xie Y, Li H, Wang J, Shi Z, Zhou Y, Zhu D, Sui G, Liu F. SP1 undergoes phase separation and activates RGS20 expression through super-enhancers to promote lung adenocarcinoma progression. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2401834121. [PMID: 38976739 PMCID: PMC11260144 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2401834121] [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: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unclear. The transcription factor (TF) specificity protein 1 (SP1) plays a crucial role in the development of various cancers, including LUAD. Recent studies have indicated that master TFs may form phase-separated macromolecular condensates to promote super-enhancer (SE) assembly and oncogene expression. In this study, we demonstrated that SP1 undergoes phase separation and that its zinc finger 3 in the DNA-binding domain is essential for this process. Through Cleavage Under Targets & Release Using Nuclease (CUT&RUN) using antibodies against SP1 and H3K27ac, we found a significant correlation between SP1 enrichment and SE elements, identified the regulator of the G protein signaling 20 (RGS20) gene as the most likely target regulated by SP1 through SE mechanisms, and verified this finding using different approaches. The oncogenic activity of SP1 relies on its phase separation ability and RGS20 gene activation, which can be abolished by glycogen synthase kinase J4 (GSK-J4), a demethylase inhibitor. Together, our findings provide evidence that SP1 regulates its target oncogene expression through phase separation and SE mechanisms, thereby promoting LUAD cell progression. This study also revealed an innovative target for LUAD therapies through intervening in SP1-mediated SE formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Shan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Wenmeng Wang
- College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin150040, China
| | - Lijuan Du
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Dangdang Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin150040, China
| | - Yunxuan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Yuyan Xie
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Jiale Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Zhihao Shi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
| | - Daling Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing163319, China
| | - Guangchao Sui
- College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin150040, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin150081, China
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9
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Dea A, Pincus D. The Heat Shock Response as a Condensate Cascade. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168642. [PMID: 38848866 PMCID: PMC11214683 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168642] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
The heat shock response (HSR) is a gene regulatory program controlling expression of molecular chaperones implicated in aging, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease. Long presumed to be activated by toxic protein aggregates, recent work suggests a new functional paradigm for the HSR in yeast. Rather than toxic aggregates, adaptive biomolecular condensates comprised of orphan ribosomal proteins (oRP) and stress granule components have been shown to be physiological chaperone clients. By titrating away the chaperones Sis1 and Hsp70 from the transcription factor Hsf1, these condensates activate the HSR. Upon release from Hsp70, Hsf1 forms spatially distinct transcriptional condensates that drive high expression of HSR genes. In this manner, the negative feedback loop controlling HSR activity - in which Hsf1 induces Hsp70 expression and Hsp70 represses Hsf1 activity - is embedded in the biophysics of the system. By analogy to phosphorylation cascades that transmit information via the dynamic activity of kinases, we propose that the HSR is organized as a condensate cascade that transmits information via the localized activity of molecular chaperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annisa Dea
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - David Pincus
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Center for Physics of Evolving Systems, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
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10
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Zhang W, Li Z, Wang X, Sun T. Phase separation is regulated by post-translational modifications and participates in the developments of human diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34035. [PMID: 39071719 PMCID: PMC11279762 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34035] [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] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of intracellular proteins has emerged as a hot research topic in recent years. Membrane-less and liquid-like condensates provide dense spaces that ensure cells to high efficiently regulate genes transcription and rapidly respond to burst changes from the environment. The fomation and activity of LLPS are not only modulated by the cytosol conditions including but not limited to salt concentration and temperture. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that phase separation is also regulated by various post-translational modifications (PTMs) through modulating proteins multivalency, such as solubility and charge interactions. The regulation mechanism is crucial for normal functioning of cells, as aberrant protein aggregates are often closely related with the occurrence and development of human diseases including cancer and nurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, studying phase separation in the perspective of protein PTMs has long-term significance for human health. In this review, we summarized the properties and cellular physiological functions of LLPS, particularly its relationships with PTMs in human diseases according to recent researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Zhang
- Faculty of Health Sciences Building University of Macau E12 Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Zhengfeng Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences Building University of Macau E12 Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Xianju Wang
- Faculty of Health Sciences Building University of Macau E12 Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Faculty of Health Sciences Building University of Macau E12 Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China
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11
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Guo X, Farag M, Qian N, Yu X, Ni A, Ma Y, Yu W, King MR, Liu V, Lee J, Zare RN, Min W, Pappu RV, Dai Y. Biomolecular condensates can function as inherent catalysts. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.06.602359. [PMID: 39026887 PMCID: PMC11257451 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.06.602359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
We report the discovery that chemical reactions such as ATP hydrolysis can be catalyzed by condensates formed by intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), which themselves lack any intrinsic ability to function as enzymes. This inherent catalytic feature of condensates derives from the electrochemical environments and the electric fields at interfaces that are direct consequences of phase separation. The condensates we studied were capable of catalyzing diverse hydrolysis reactions, including hydrolysis and radical-dependent breakdown of ATP whereby ATP fully decomposes to adenine and multiple carbohydrates. This distinguishes condensates from naturally occurring ATPases, which can only catalyze the dephosphorylation of ATP. Interphase and interfacial properties of condensates can be tuned via sequence design, thus enabling control over catalysis through sequence-dependent electrochemical features of condensates. Incorporation of hydrolase-like synthetic condensates into live cells enables activation of transcriptional circuits that depend on products of hydrolysis reactions. Inherent catalytic functions of condensates, which are emergent consequences of phase separation, are likely to affect metabolic regulation in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Mina Farag
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Naixin Qian
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Xia Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Anton Ni
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Yuefeng Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Matthew R. King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Vicky Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Joonho Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Richard N. Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Wei Min
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Rohit V. Pappu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Yifan Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130
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12
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Bell TN, Kusi-Appiah AE, Tocci V, Lyu P, Zhu L, Zhu F, Van Winkle D, Cao H, Singh MS, Lenhert S. Scalable lipid droplet microarray fabrication, validation, and screening. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304736. [PMID: 38968248 PMCID: PMC11226032 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
High throughput screening of small molecules and natural products is costly, requiring significant amounts of time, reagents, and operating space. Although microarrays have proven effective in the miniaturization of screening for certain biochemical assays, such as nucleic acid hybridization or antibody binding, they are not widely used for drug discovery in cell culture due to the need for cells to internalize lipophilic drug candidates. Lipid droplet microarrays are a promising solution to this problem as they are capable of delivering lipophilic drugs to cells at dosages comparable to solution delivery. However, the scalablility of the array fabrication, assay validation, and screening steps has limited the utility of this approach. Here we take several new steps to scale up the process for lipid droplet array fabrication, assay validation in cell culture, and drug screening. A nanointaglio printing process has been adapted for use with a printing press. The arrays are stabilized for immersion into aqueous solution using a vapor coating process. In addition to delivery of lipophilic compounds, we found that we are also able to encapsulate and deliver a water-soluble compound in this way. The arrays can be functionalized by extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen prior to cell culture as the mechanism for uptake is based on direct contact with the lipid delivery vehicles rather than diffusion of the drug out of the microarray spots. We demonstrate this method for delivery to 3 different cell types and the screening of 92 natural product extracts on a microarray covering an area of less than 0.1 cm2. The arrays are suitable for miniaturized screening, for instance in high biosafety level facilities where space is limited and for applications where cell numbers are limited, such as in functional precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey N. Bell
- Department of Biological Science and Integrative NanoScience Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Aubrey E. Kusi-Appiah
- Department of Biological Science and Integrative NanoScience Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Vincent Tocci
- Department of Biological Science and Integrative NanoScience Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Pengfei Lyu
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Fanxiu Zhu
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - David Van Winkle
- Department of Physics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Hongyuan Cao
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mandip S. Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Steven Lenhert
- Department of Biological Science and Integrative NanoScience Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
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13
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Sood A, Zhang B. Preserving condensate structure and composition by lowering sequence complexity. Biophys J 2024; 123:1815-1826. [PMID: 38824391 PMCID: PMC11267431 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.05.026] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates play a vital role in organizing cellular chemistry. They selectively partition biomolecules, preventing unwanted cross talk and buffering against chemical noise. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) serve as primary components of these condensates due to their flexibility and ability to engage in multivalent interactions, leading to spontaneous aggregation. Theoretical advancements are critical at connecting IDP sequences with condensate emergent properties to establish the so-called molecular grammar. We proposed an extension to the stickers and spacers model, incorporating heterogeneous, nonspecific pairwise interactions between spacers alongside specific interactions among stickers. Our investigation revealed that although spacer interactions contribute to phase separation and co-condensation, their nonspecific nature leads to disorganized condensates. Specific sticker-sticker interactions drive the formation of condensates with well-defined networked structures and molecular composition. We discussed how evolutionary pressures might emerge to affect these interactions, leading to the prevalence of low-complexity domains in IDP sequences. These domains suppress spurious interactions and facilitate the formation of biologically meaningful condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amogh Sood
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
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14
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Kiang KM, Ahad L, Zhong X, Lu QR. Biomolecular condensates: hubs of Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in cancer. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:566-577. [PMID: 38806345 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates, the membraneless cellular compartments formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), represent an important mechanism for physiological and tumorigenic processes. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of how these condensates formed in the cytoplasm or nucleus regulate Hippo signaling, a central player in organogenesis and tumorigenesis. Here, we review recent findings on the dynamic formation and function of biomolecular condensates in regulating the Hippo-yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcription coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling pathway under physiological and pathological processes. We further discuss how the nuclear condensates of YAP- or TAZ-fusion oncoproteins compartmentalize crucial transcriptional co-activators and alter chromatin architecture to promote oncogenic programs. Finally, we highlight key questions regarding how these findings may pave the way for novel therapeutics to target cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karrie M Kiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Leena Ahad
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xiaowen Zhong
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Q Richard Lu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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15
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Chang YC, Gnann C, Steimbach RR, Bayer FP, Lechner S, Sakhteman A, Abele M, Zecha J, Trendel J, The M, Lundberg E, Miller AK, Kuster B. Decrypting lysine deacetylase inhibitor action and protein modifications by dose-resolved proteomics. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114272. [PMID: 38795348 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysine deacetylase inhibitors (KDACis) are approved drugs for cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL), and multiple myeloma, but many aspects of their cellular mechanism of action (MoA) and substantial toxicity are not well understood. To shed more light on how KDACis elicit cellular responses, we systematically measured dose-dependent changes in acetylation, phosphorylation, and protein expression in response to 21 clinical and pre-clinical KDACis. The resulting 862,000 dose-response curves revealed, for instance, limited cellular specificity of histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1, 2, 3, and 6 inhibitors; strong cross-talk between acetylation and phosphorylation pathways; localization of most drug-responsive acetylation sites to intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs); an underappreciated role of acetylation in protein structure; and a shift in EP300 protein abundance between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. This comprehensive dataset serves as a resource for the investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying KDACi action in cells and can be interactively explored online in ProteomicsDB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Chien Chang
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Christian Gnann
- Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Raphael R Steimbach
- Cancer Drug Development, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Biosciences Faculty, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Florian P Bayer
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Severin Lechner
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Amirhossein Sakhteman
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Miriam Abele
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany; Bavarian Center for Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry (BayBioMS), TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Jana Zecha
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Jakob Trendel
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Matthew The
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Emma Lundberg
- Science for Life Laboratory, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Aubry K Miller
- Cancer Drug Development, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Kuster
- Chair of Proteomics and Bioanalytics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Bavaria, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
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16
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Latham AP, Zhu L, Sharon DA, Ye S, Willard AP, Zhang X, Zhang B. Microphase Separation Produces Interfacial Environment within Diblock Biomolecular Condensates. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.03.30.534967. [PMID: 37034777 PMCID: PMC10081284 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.30.534967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The phase separation of intrinsically disordered proteins is emerging as an important mechanism for cellular organization. However, efforts to connect protein sequences to the physical properties of condensates, i.e., the molecular grammar, are hampered by a lack of effective approaches for probing high-resolution structural details. Using a combination of multiscale simulations and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy experiments, we systematically explored a series of systems consisting of diblock elastin-like polypeptides (ELP). The simulations succeeded in reproducing the variation of condensate stability upon amino acid substitution and revealed different microenvironments within a single condensate, which we verified with environmentally sensitive fluorophores. The interspersion of hydrophilic and hydrophobic residues and a lack of secondary structure formation result in an interfacial environment, which explains both the strong correlation between ELP condensate stability and interfacial hydrophobicity scales, as well as the prevalence of protein-water hydrogen bonds. Our study uncovers new mechanisms for condensate stability and organization that may be broadly applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Latham
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Longchen Zhu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dina A Sharon
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Songtao Ye
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Adam P Willard
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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17
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Norrild RK, Mason TO, Boyens-Thiele L, Ray S, Mortensen JB, Fritsch AW, Iglesias-Artola JM, Klausen LK, Stender EGP, Jensen H, Buell AK. Taylor Dispersion-Induced Phase Separation for the Efficient Characterisation of Protein Condensate Formation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202404018. [PMID: 38593269 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202404018] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates have emerged as important structures in cellular function and disease, and are thought to form through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Thorough and efficient in vitro experiments are therefore needed to elucidate the driving forces of protein LLPS and the possibility to modulate it with drugs. Here we present Taylor dispersion-induced phase separation (TDIPS), a method to robustly measure condensation phenomena using a commercially available microfluidic platform. It uses only nanoliters of sample, does not require extrinsic fluorescent labels, and is straightforward to implement. We demonstrate TDIPS by screening the phase behaviour of two proteins that form biomolecular condensates in vivo, PGL-3 and Ddx4. Uniquely accessible to this method, we find an unexpected re-entrant behaviour at very low ionic strength, where LLPS is inhibited for both proteins. TDIPS can also probe the reversibility of assemblies, which was shown for both α-synuclein and for lysozyme, relevant for health and biotechnology, respectively. Finally, we highlight how effective inhibition concentrations and partitioning of LLPS-modifying compounds can be screened highly efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmus K Norrild
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas O Mason
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars Boyens-Thiele
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Soumik Ray
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Joachim B Mortensen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anatol W Fritsch
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Juan M Iglesias-Artola
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Louise K Klausen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Henrik Jensen
- FIDA Biosystems Aps, Generatorvej 6 A+B, 2860, Søborg, Denmark
| | - Alexander K Buell
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, Building 227, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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18
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Liu N, Zheng X, Yan J, Jiang A, Yao Y, He W. Reversing MET-Mediated Resistance in Oncogene-Driven NSCLC by MET-Activated Wnt Condensative Prodrug. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400603. [PMID: 38867713 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The amplification of MET is a major cause of acquired resistance to targeted therapy in EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), only to be temporarily restrained by the partial efficacy of MET inhibitors. This study reveals that the MET inhibitor has unexpectedly limited efficacy due to amplified MET triggering a strong positive feedback loop in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, allowing optimal functionality even when the MET pathway is suppressed again. To test this conjecture and specifically target the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, a cleverly designed Wnt condensative pro drug called WntSI is developed using reversible supramolecular self-assembly driven by liquidliquid phase separation (LLPS). This process involves a MET/pH-responsive peptide (Tyr-Pep) and a potent Wnt inhibitor known as CA. Upon recognition and phosphorylation of Tyr-Pep by over expressed MET in cells, it disrupts LLPS propensity and facilitates the disintegration of WntSI. Consequently,this enables it to suppress the carcinogenic effect mediated by β-catenin,effectively overcoming acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs caused by MET amplification in both cell line-derived and patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) mouse models while maintaining exceptional biosecurity. This effective strategy not only suppresses the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway selectively, but also serves as an innovative example for pro-drug development through biologically responsive LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, P. R. China
| | - Jin Yan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, P. R. China
- Department of Tumor and Immunology in Precision Medical Institute, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, P. R. China
| | - Aimin Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Yu Yao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Wangxiao He
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, P. R. China
- Department of Talent Highland, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
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19
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Mabe NW, Perry JA, Malone CF, Stegmaier K. Pharmacological targeting of the cancer epigenome. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:844-865. [PMID: 38937652 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-024-00777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic dysregulation is increasingly appreciated as a hallmark of cancer, including disease initiation, maintenance and therapy resistance. As a result, there have been advances in the development and evaluation of epigenetic therapies for cancer, revealing substantial promise but also challenges. Three epigenetic inhibitor classes are approved in the USA, and many more are currently undergoing clinical investigation. In this Review, we discuss recent developments for each epigenetic drug class and their implications for therapy, as well as highlight new insights into the role of epigenetics in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel W Mabe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Perry
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Clare F Malone
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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20
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Dai Z, Yang X. The regulation of liquid-liquid phase separated condensates containing nucleic acids. FEBS J 2024; 291:2320-2331. [PMID: 37735903 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16959] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has been recognized as a universal biological phenomenon. It plays an important role in life activities. LLPS is induced by weak interactions between intrinsically disordered regions or low complex domains. Nucleic acids are widely present in cells, and shown to be closely related to LLPS. Their structure and electronegativity provide the excellent platforms for the formation of phase-separated condensates. In this review, we summarize the interconnected regulation between nucleic acids and LLPS demonstrated in in vivo and in vitro studies. Beside homogeneous and single-phase condensates, complicated and multicompartment LLPS induced by nucleic acids is discussed as well. Recent advances about nucleic-acid-induced LLPS as a new pathogenic mechanism and drug design direction are highlighted, especially virus-mediated disease treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuojun Dai
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaorong Yang
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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21
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Xu Y, Yu Y, Yan R, Ke X, Qu Y. Modulating β-catenin homeostasis for cancer therapy. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:507-518. [PMID: 38521655 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
β-Catenin is a well-established driver of many cancers; however, there are challenges in developing agents targeting β-catenin for clinical use. Recent progress has indicated that most of the pathological changes in β-catenin may be commonly caused by loss of protein homeostasis. Modulation of β-catenin homeostasis, especially by hyperactivation of β-catenin, potentially leads to robust antitumor outcomes. Here, we comprehensively dissect the protein homeostasis of β-catenin in terms of time, compartmentalization, supramolecular assemblies, and dynamics, with emphasis on changes in β-catenin homeostasis upon oncogenic mutations. We propose that altered β-catenin homeostasis could be deleterious for β-catenin-dependent cancers and that modulation of β-catenin homeostasis offers a novel avenue for targeting β-catenin for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xu
- Center for Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ying Yu
- Center for Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Rong Yan
- Center for Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xisong Ke
- Center for Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Yi Qu
- Center for Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
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22
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Yang J, Chung CI, Koach J, Liu H, Navalkar A, He H, Ma Z, Zhao Q, Yang X, He L, Mittag T, Shen Y, Weiss WA, Shu X. MYC phase separation selectively modulates the transcriptome. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024:10.1038/s41594-024-01322-6. [PMID: 38811792 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01322-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulation and enhanced expression of MYC transcription factors (TFs) including MYC and MYCN contribute to the majority of human cancers. For example, MYCN is amplified up to several hundredfold in high-risk neuroblastoma. The resulting overexpression of N-myc aberrantly activates genes that are not activated at low N-myc levels and drives cell proliferation. Whether increasing N-myc levels simply mediates binding to lower-affinity binding sites in the genome or fundamentally changes the activation process remains unclear. One such activation mechanism that could become important above threshold levels of N-myc is the formation of aberrant transcriptional condensates through phase separation. Phase separation has recently been linked to transcriptional regulation, but the extent to which it contributes to gene activation remains an open question. Here we characterized the phase behavior of N-myc and showed that it can form dynamic condensates that have transcriptional hallmarks. We tested the role of phase separation in N-myc-regulated transcription by using a chemogenetic tool that allowed us to compare non-phase-separated and phase-separated conditions at equivalent N-myc levels, both of which showed a strong impact on gene expression compared to no N-myc expression. Interestingly, we discovered that only a small percentage (<3%) of N-myc-regulated genes is further modulated by phase separation but that these events include the activation of key oncogenes and the repression of tumor suppressors. Indeed, phase separation increases cell proliferation, corroborating the biological effects of the transcriptional changes. However, our results also show that >97% of N-myc-regulated genes are not affected by N-myc phase separation, demonstrating that soluble complexes of TFs with the transcriptional machinery are sufficient to activate transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjiao Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chan-I Chung
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Koach
- Departments of Neurology, Neurological Surgery, Pediatrics, and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hongjiang Liu
- Institute for Human Genetics, Departments of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ambuja Navalkar
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hao He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zhimin Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Institute for Human Genetics, Departments of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Liang He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tanja Mittag
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Yin Shen
- Institute for Human Genetics, Departments of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - William A Weiss
- Departments of Neurology, Neurological Surgery, Pediatrics, and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiaokun Shu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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23
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Gu Y, Wei K, Wang J. Phase separation and transcriptional regulation in cancer development. J Biomed Res 2024; 38:307-321. [PMID: 39113127 PMCID: PMC11300516 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.37.20230214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation, a novel biochemical phenomenon, has been increasingly studied for its medical applications. It underlies the formation of membrane-less organelles and is involved in many cellular and biological processes. During transcriptional regulation, dynamic condensates are formed through interactions between transcriptional elements, such as transcription factors, coactivators, and mediators. Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, but the precise mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis often remain to be elucidated. Emerging evidence has linked abnormal transcriptional condensates to several diseases, especially cancer, implying that phase separation plays an important role in tumorigenesis. Condensates formed by phase separation may have an effect on gene transcription in tumors. In the present review, we focus on the correlation between phase separation and transcriptional regulation, as well as how this phenomenon contributes to cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Gu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Ke Wei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
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24
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Kilgore HR, Chinn I, Mikhael PG, Mitnikov I, Van Dongen C, Zylberberg G, Afeyan L, Banani S, Wilson-Hawken S, Lee TI, Barzilay R, Young RA. Protein codes promote selective subcellular compartmentalization. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.15.589616. [PMID: 38659952 PMCID: PMC11042338 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.15.589616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Cells have evolved mechanisms to distribute ~10 billion protein molecules to subcellular compartments where diverse proteins involved in shared functions must efficiently assemble. Here, we demonstrate that proteins with shared functions share amino acid sequence codes that guide them to compartment destinations. A protein language model, ProtGPS, was developed that predicts with high performance the compartment localization of human proteins excluded from the training set. ProtGPS successfully guided generation of novel protein sequences that selectively assemble in targeted subcellular compartments. ProtGPS also identified pathological mutations that change this code and lead to altered subcellular localization of proteins. Our results indicate that protein sequences contain not only a folding code, but also a previously unrecognized code governing their distribution in specific cellular compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R. Kilgore
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Itamar Chinn
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Peter G. Mikhael
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ilan Mitnikov
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Guy Zylberberg
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Lena Afeyan
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Salman Banani
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Susana Wilson-Hawken
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Program of Computational & Systems Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Tong Ihn Lee
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Regina Barzilay
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Richard A. Young
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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25
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Zhu L, Pan Y, Hua Z, Liu Y, Zhang X. Ionic Effect on the Microenvironment of Biomolecular Condensates. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:14307-14317. [PMID: 38722189 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c04036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecules such as proteins and RNA could organize to form condensates with distinct microenvironments through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Recent works have demonstrated that the microenvironment of biomolecular condensates plays a crucial role in mediating biological activities, such as the partition of biomolecules, and the subphase organization of the multiphasic condensates. Ions could influence the phase transition point of LLPS, following the Hofmeister series. However, the ion-specific effect on the microenvironment of biomolecular condensates remains unknown. In this study, we utilized fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), and microrheology techniques to investigate the ion effect on the microenvironment of condensates. We found that ions significantly affect the microenvironment of biomolecular condensates: salting-in ions increase micropolarity and reduce the microviscosity of the condensate, while salting-out ions induce opposing effects. Furthermore, we manipulate the miscibility and multilayering behavior of condensates through ion-specific effects. In summary, our work provides the first quantitative survey of the microenvironment of protein condensates in the presence of ions from the Hofmeister series, demonstrating how ions impact micropolarity, microviscosity, and viscoelasticity of condensates. Our results bear implications on how membrane-less organelles would exhibit varying microenvironments in the presence of continuously changing cellular conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longchen Zhu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, P. R. China
| | - Yifei Pan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, P. R. China
| | - Ziyi Hua
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, P. R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310030, P. R. China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, P. R. China
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26
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Mukherjee S, Poudyal M, Dave K, Kadu P, Maji SK. Protein misfolding and amyloid nucleation through liquid-liquid phase separation. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4976-5013. [PMID: 38597222 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an emerging phenomenon in cell physiology and diseases. The weak multivalent interaction prerequisite for LLPS is believed to be facilitated through intrinsically disordered regions, which are prevalent in neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins. These aggregation-prone proteins also exhibit an inherent property for phase separation, resulting in protein-rich liquid-like droplets. The very high local protein concentration in the water-deficient confined microenvironment not only drives the viscoelastic transition from the liquid to solid-like state but also most often nucleate amyloid fibril formation. Indeed, protein misfolding, oligomerization, and amyloid aggregation are observed to be initiated from the LLPS of various neurodegeneration-related proteins. Moreover, in these cases, neurodegeneration-promoting genetic and environmental factors play a direct role in amyloid aggregation preceded by the phase separation. These cumulative recent observations ignite the possibility of LLPS being a prominent nucleation mechanism associated with aberrant protein aggregation. The present review elaborates on the nucleation mechanism of the amyloid aggregation pathway and the possible early molecular events associated with amyloid-related protein phase separation. It also summarizes the recent advancement in understanding the aberrant phase transition of major proteins contributing to neurodegeneration focusing on the common disease-associated factors. Overall, this review proposes a generic LLPS-mediated multistep nucleation mechanism for amyloid aggregation and its implication in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semanti Mukherjee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Manisha Poudyal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Kritika Dave
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Pradeep Kadu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Samir K Maji
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
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27
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Shelkovnikova TA, Hautbergue GM. RNP granules in ALS and neurodegeneration: From multifunctional membraneless organelles to therapeutic opportunities. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:455-479. [PMID: 38802180 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related neurodegenerative diseases are characterised by dysfunction of a host of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and a severely disrupted RNA metabolism. Recently, RBP-harbouring phase-separated complexes, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, have come into the limelight as "crucibles" of neuronal pathology in ALS. RNP granules are indispensable for the multitude of regulatory processes underlying cellular RNA metabolism and serve as critical organisers of cellular biochemistry. Neurons, highly specialised cells, heavily rely on RNP granules for efficient trafficking, signalling and stress responses. Multiple RNP granule components, primarily RBPs such as TDP-43 and FUS, are affected by ALS mutations. However, even in the absence of mutations, RBP proteinopathies represent pathophysiological hallmarks of ALS. Given the high local concentrations of RBPs and RNAs, their weakened or enhanced interactions within RNP granules disrupt their homeostasis. Thus, the physiological process of phase separation and RNP granule formation, vital for maintaining the high-functioning state of neuronal cells, becomes their Achilles heel. Here, we will review the recent literature on the causes and consequences of abnormal RNP granule functioning in ALS and related disorders. In particular, we will summarise the evidence for the network-level dysfunction of RNP granules in these conditions and discuss considerations for therapeutic interventions to target RBPs, RNP granules and their network as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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28
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Marmolejo CO, Sanchez C, Lee J, Werner M, Roberts P, Hamperl S, Saldivar JC. A phosphorylation code coordinating transcription condensate dynamics with DNA replication. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.10.593572. [PMID: 38765978 PMCID: PMC11100774 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.10.593572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Chromatin is organized into compartments enriched with functionally-related proteins driving non-linear biochemical activities. Some compartments, e.g. transcription foci, behave as liquid condensates. While the principles governing the enrichment of proteins within condensates are being elucidated, mechanisms that coordinate condensate dynamics with other nuclear processes like DNA replication have not been identified. We show that at the G1/S cell cycle transition, large transcription condensates form at histone locus bodies (HLBs) in a cyclin-dependent kinase 1 and 2 (CDK1/2)-dependent manner. As cells progress through S phase, ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) accumulates within HLBs and dissolves the associated transcription condensates. Integration of CDK1/2 and ATR signaling creates a phosphorylation code within the intrinsically-disordered region of mediator subunit 1 (MED1) coordinating condensate dynamics with DNA replication. Disruption of this code results in imbalanced histone biosynthesis, and consequently, global DNA damage. We propose the spatiotemporal dynamics of transcription condensates are actively controlled via phosphorylation and essential for viability of proliferating cells.
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29
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Lin CC, Suen KM, Lidster J, Ladbury JE. The emerging role of receptor tyrosine kinase phase separation in cancer. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:371-379. [PMID: 37777392 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-mediated signal transduction is fundamental to cell function and drives important cellular outcomes which, when dysregulated, can lead to malignant tumour growth and metastasis. The initiation of signals from plasma membrane-bound RTKs is subjected to multiple regulatory mechanisms that control downstream effector protein recruitment and function. The high propensity of RTKs to condense via liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) into membraneless organelles with downstream effector proteins provides a further fundamental mechanism for signal regulation. Herein we highlight how this phenomenon contributes to cancer signalling and consider the potential impact of LLPS on outcomes for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Chuan Lin
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - Kin Man Suen
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Jessica Lidster
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - John E Ladbury
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
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30
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Offensperger F, Tin G, Duran-Frigola M, Hahn E, Dobner S, Ende CWA, Strohbach JW, Rukavina A, Brennsteiner V, Ogilvie K, Marella N, Kladnik K, Ciuffa R, Majmudar JD, Field SD, Bensimon A, Ferrari L, Ferrada E, Ng A, Zhang Z, Degliesposti G, Boeszoermenyi A, Martens S, Stanton R, Müller AC, Hannich JT, Hepworth D, Superti-Furga G, Kubicek S, Schenone M, Winter GE. Large-scale chemoproteomics expedites ligand discovery and predicts ligand behavior in cells. Science 2024; 384:eadk5864. [PMID: 38662832 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk5864] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Chemical modulation of proteins enables a mechanistic understanding of biology and represents the foundation of most therapeutics. However, despite decades of research, 80% of the human proteome lacks functional ligands. Chemical proteomics has advanced fragment-based ligand discovery toward cellular systems, but throughput limitations have stymied the scalable identification of fragment-protein interactions. We report proteome-wide maps of protein-binding propensity for 407 structurally diverse small-molecule fragments. We verified that identified interactions can be advanced to active chemical probes of E3 ubiquitin ligases, transporters, and kinases. Integrating machine learning binary classifiers further enabled interpretable predictions of fragment behavior in cells. The resulting resource of fragment-protein interactions and predictive models will help to elucidate principles of molecular recognition and expedite ligand discovery efforts for hitherto undrugged proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Offensperger
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gary Tin
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Miquel Duran-Frigola
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Ersilia Open Source Initiative, Cambridge CB1 3DE, UK
| | - Elisa Hahn
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sarah Dobner
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Andrea Rukavina
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Vincenth Brennsteiner
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Kevin Ogilvie
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Nara Marella
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Kladnik
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rodolfo Ciuffa
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Ariel Bensimon
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Luca Ferrari
- Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Evandro Ferrada
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Amanda Ng
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Zhechun Zhang
- Molecular Informatics, Machine Learning and Computational Sciences, Early Clinical Development, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Gianluca Degliesposti
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andras Boeszoermenyi
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sascha Martens
- Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Stanton
- Molecular Informatics, Machine Learning and Computational Sciences, Early Clinical Development, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - André C Müller
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - J Thomas Hannich
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Giulio Superti-Furga
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Kubicek
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Georg E Winter
- CeMM, Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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31
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Kinyamu HK, Bennett BD, Ward JM, Archer TK. Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:1082-1099. [PMID: 38625038 PMCID: PMC11019832 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The 26S proteasome is the major protein degradation machinery in cells. Cancer cells use the proteasome to modulate gene expression networks that promote tumor growth. Proteasome inhibitors have emerged as effective cancer therapeutics, but how they work mechanistically remains unclear. Here, using integrative genomic analysis, we discovered unexpected reprogramming of the chromatin landscape and RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription initiation in breast cancer cells treated with the proteasome inhibitor MG132. The cells acquired dynamic changes in chromatin accessibility at specific genomic loci termed differentially open chromatin regions (DOCR). DOCRs with decreased accessibility were promoter proximal and exhibited unique chromatin architecture associated with divergent RNAPII transcription. Conversely, DOCRs with increased accessibility were primarily distal to transcription start sites and enriched in oncogenic superenhancers predominantly accessible in non-basal breast tumor subtypes. These findings describe the mechanisms by which the proteasome modulates the expression of gene networks intrinsic to breast cancer biology. SIGNIFICANCE Our study provides a strong basis for understanding the mechanisms by which proteasome inhibitors exert anticancer effects. We find open chromatin regions that change during proteasome inhibition, are typically accessible in non-basal breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Karimi Kinyamu
- Chromatin and Gene Expression Section, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Brian D. Bennett
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Integrative Bioinformatics Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - James M. Ward
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Integrative Bioinformatics Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Trevor K. Archer
- Chromatin and Gene Expression Section, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
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32
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Sun X, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Peng M, Wei X, Xie Y, Wen C, Liu J, Ye M. Biomolecular Condensates Decipher Molecular Codes of Cell Fate: From Biophysical Fundamentals to Therapeutic Practices. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4127. [PMID: 38612940 PMCID: PMC11012904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074127] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell fate is precisely modulated by complex but well-tuned molecular signaling networks, whose spatial and temporal dysregulation commonly leads to hazardous diseases. Biomolecular condensates (BCs), as a newly emerging type of biophysical assemblies, decipher the molecular codes bridging molecular behaviors, signaling axes, and clinical prognosis. Particularly, physical traits of BCs play an important role; however, a panoramic view from this perspective toward clinical practices remains lacking. In this review, we describe the most typical five physical traits of BCs, and comprehensively summarize their roles in molecular signaling axes and corresponding major determinants. Moreover, establishing the recent observed contribution of condensate physics on clinical therapeutics, we illustrate next-generation medical strategies by targeting condensate physics. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for future medical development along with the rapid scientific and technological advances are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Sun
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Yangyang Zhou
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Zhiyan Wang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Menglan Peng
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Xianhua Wei
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Yifang Xie
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Chengcai Wen
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Jing Liu
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Mao Ye
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
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Bivona TG. Phase-Separated Biomolecular Condensation in Cancer: New Horizons and Next Frontiers. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:630-634. [PMID: 38571428 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-1551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
SUMMARY Beyond lipid membrane compartments, cells including cancer cells utilize various membraneless compartments, often termed biomolecular condensates, to regulate or organize key cellular processes underlying physiologic or pathologic phenotypes. In this commentary, the emergence of biomolecular condensation in cancer biology is highlighted, with a focus on key unanswered questions and with implications for improving the understanding of cancer pathogenesis and developing innovative cancer management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trever G Bivona
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, California
- Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
- Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California
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Bao K, Ma Y, Li Y, Shen X, Zhao J, Tian S, Zhang C, Liang C, Zhao Z, Yang Y, Zhang K, Yang N, Meng FL, Hao J, Yang J, Liu T, Yao Z, Ai D, Shi L. A di-acetyl-decorated chromatin signature couples liquid condensation to suppress DNA end synapsis. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1206-1223.e15. [PMID: 38423014 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Appropriate DNA end synapsis, regulated by core components of the synaptic complex including KU70-KU80, LIG4, XRCC4, and XLF, is central to non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair of chromatinized DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). However, it remains enigmatic whether chromatin modifications can influence the formation of NHEJ synaptic complex at DNA ends, and if so, how this is achieved. Here, we report that the mitotic deacetylase complex (MiDAC) serves as a key regulator of DNA end synapsis during NHEJ repair in mammalian cells. Mechanistically, MiDAC removes combinatorial acetyl marks on histone H2A (H2AK5acK9ac) around DSB-proximal chromatin, suppressing hyperaccumulation of bromodomain-containing protein BRD4 that would otherwise undergo liquid-liquid phase separation with KU80 and prevent the proper installation of LIG4-XRCC4-XLF onto DSB ends. This study provides mechanistic insight into the control of NHEJ synaptic complex assembly by a specific chromatin signature and highlights the critical role of H2A hypoacetylation in restraining unscheduled compartmentalization of DNA repair machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwen Bao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xilin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shanshan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunyong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Can Liang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Core Facilities Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Na Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Fei-Long Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihui Hao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi Yao
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ding Ai
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Lei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy (Ministry of Education), State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
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35
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Ye S, Latham AP, Tang Y, Hsiung CH, Chen J, Luo F, Liu Y, Zhang B, Zhang X. Micropolarity governs the structural organization of biomolecular condensates. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:443-451. [PMID: 37973891 PMCID: PMC10978266 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01477-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Membraneless organelles within cells have unique microenvironments that play a critical role in their functions. However, how microenvironments of biomolecular condensates affect their structure and function remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the micropolarity and microviscosity of model biomolecular condensates by fluorescence lifetime imaging coupling with environmentally sensitive fluorophores. Using both in vitro and in cellulo systems, we demonstrated that sufficient micropolarity difference is key to forming multilayered condensates, where the shells present more polar microenvironments than the cores. Furthermore, micropolarity changes were shown to be accompanied by conversions of the layered structures. Decreased micropolarities of the granular components, accompanied by the increased micropolarities of the dense fibrillar components, result in the relocation of different nucleolus subcompartments in transcription-stalled conditions. Our results demonstrate the central role of the previously overlooked micropolarity in the regulation of structures and functions of membraneless organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songtao Ye
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Andrew P Latham
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Quantitative Biosciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yuqi Tang
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chia-Heng Hsiung
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junlin Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Luo
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China.
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36
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Sun J, Qu J, Zhao C, Zhang X, Liu X, Wang J, Wei C, Liu X, Wang M, Zeng P, Tang X, Ling X, Qing L, Jiang S, Chen J, Chen TSR, Kuang Y, Gao J, Zeng X, Huang D, Yuan Y, Fan L, Yu H, Ding J. Precise prediction of phase-separation key residues by machine learning. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2662. [PMID: 38531854 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46901-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding intracellular phase separation is crucial for deciphering transcriptional control, cell fate transitions, and disease mechanisms. However, the key residues, which impact phase separation the most for protein phase separation function have remained elusive. We develop PSPHunter, which can precisely predict these key residues based on machine learning scheme. In vivo and in vitro validations demonstrate that truncating just 6 key residues in GATA3 disrupts phase separation, enhancing tumor cell migration and inhibiting growth. Glycine and its motifs are enriched in spacer and key residues, as revealed by our comprehensive analysis. PSPHunter identifies nearly 80% of disease-associated phase-separating proteins, with frequent mutated pathological residues like glycine and proline often residing in these key residues. PSPHunter thus emerges as a crucial tool to uncover key residues, facilitating insights into phase separation mechanisms governing transcriptional control, cell fate transitions, and disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiale Qu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Cai Zhao
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyao Zhang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia Wang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Chao Wei
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyi Liu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mulan Wang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Pengguihang Zeng
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiuxiao Tang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoru Ling
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Qing
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaoshuai Jiang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiahao Chen
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tara S R Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Yalan Kuang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jinhang Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zeng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dongfeng Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Lili Fan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Haopeng Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Junjun Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Advanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
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37
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Eltayeb A, Al-Sarraj F, Alharbi M, Albiheyri R, Mattar EH, Abu Zeid IM, Bouback TA, Bamagoos A, Uversky VN, Rubio-Casillas A, Redwan EM. Intrinsic factors behind long COVID: IV. Hypothetical roles of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein and its liquid-liquid phase separation. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30530. [PMID: 38349116 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
When the SARS-CoV-2 virus infects humans, it leads to a condition called COVID-19 that has a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, from no symptoms to acute respiratory distress syndrome. The virus initiates damage by attaching to the ACE-2 protein on the surface of endothelial cells that line the blood vessels and using these cells as hosts for replication. Reactive oxygen species levels are increased during viral replication, which leads to oxidative stress. About three-fifths (~60%) of the people who get infected with the virus eradicate it from their body after 28 days and recover their normal activity. However, a large fraction (~40%) of the people who are infected with the virus suffer from various symptoms (anosmia and/or ageusia, fatigue, cough, myalgia, cognitive impairment, insomnia, dyspnea, and tachycardia) beyond 12 weeks and are diagnosed with a syndrome called long COVID. Long-term clinical studies in a group of people who contracted SARS-CoV-2 have been contrasted with a noninfected matched group of people. A subset of infected people can be distinguished by a set of cytokine markers to have persistent, low-grade inflammation and often self-report two or more bothersome symptoms. No medication can alleviate their symptoms efficiently. Coronavirus nucleocapsid proteins have been investigated extensively as potential drug targets due to their key roles in virus replication, among which is their ability to bind their respective genomic RNAs for incorporation into emerging virions. This review highlights basic studies of the nucleocapsid protein and its ability to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation. We hypothesize that this ability of the nucleocapsid protein for phase separation may contribute to long COVID. This hypothesis unlocks new investigation angles and could potentially open novel avenues for a better understanding of long COVID and treating this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Eltayeb
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Al-Sarraj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Alharbi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raed Albiheyri
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Excellence in Bionanoscience Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Immunology Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ehab H Mattar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Isam M Abu Zeid
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamer A Bouback
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atif Bamagoos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Alberto Rubio-Casillas
- Autlan Regional Hospital, Health Secretariat, Autlan, Jalisco, Mexico
- Biology Laboratory, Autlan Regional Preparatory School, University of Guadalajara, Autlan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Elrashdy M Redwan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Excellence in Bionanoscience Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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38
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Chen X, Gao M, Xia Y, Wang X, Qin J, He H, Liu W, Zhang X, Peng S, Zeng Z, Su Y, Zhang X. Phase separation of Nur77 mediates XS561-induced apoptosis by promoting the formation of Nur77/Bcl-2 condensates. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1204-1221. [PMID: 38486987 PMCID: PMC10935061 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.11.017] [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] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The orphan nuclear receptor Nur77 is a critical regulator of the survival and death of tumor cells. The pro-death effect of Nur77 can be regulated by its interaction with Bcl-2, resulting in conversion of Bcl-2 from a survival to killer. As Bcl-2 is overexpressed in various cancers preventing them from apoptosis and promoting their resistance to chemotherapy, targeting the apoptotic pathway of Nur77/Bcl-2 may lead to new cancer therapeutics. Here, we report our identification of XS561 as a novel Nur77 ligand that induces apoptosis of tumor cells by activating the Nur77/Bcl-2 pathway. In vitro and animal studies revealed an apoptotic effect of XS561 in a range of tumor cell lines including MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and MCF-7/LCC2 tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer (TAMR) in a Nur77-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies showed XS561 potently induced the translocation of Nur77 from the nucleus to mitochondria, resulting in mitochondria-related apoptosis. Interestingly, XS561-induced accumulation of Nur77 at mitochondria was associated with XS561 induction of Nur77 phase separation and the formation of Nur77/Bcl-2 condensates. Together, our studies identify XS561 as a new activator of the Nur77/Bcl-2 apoptotic pathway and reveal a role of phase separation in mediating the apoptotic effect of Nur77 at mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Meichun Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Yongzhen Xia
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Xin Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Jingbo Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Hongying He
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Weirong Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Shuangzhou Peng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Zhiping Zeng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Ying Su
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
- NucMito Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Xiaokun Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
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39
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Characterizing the metabolomes of phase-separated condensates. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:273-274. [PMID: 37985884 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01487-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
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40
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Ansari AZ. In search of chemical rationales. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:264-265. [PMID: 38030787 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01488-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Aseem Z Ansari
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
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41
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Kilgore HR, Mikhael PG, Overholt KJ, Boija A, Hannett NM, Van Dongen C, Lee TI, Chang YT, Barzilay R, Young RA. Distinct chemical environments in biomolecular condensates. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:291-301. [PMID: 37770698 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01432-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Diverse mechanisms have been described for selective enrichment of biomolecules in membrane-bound organelles, but less is known about mechanisms by which molecules are selectively incorporated into biomolecular assemblies such as condensates that lack surrounding membranes. The chemical environments within condensates may differ from those outside these bodies, and if these differed among various types of condensate, then the different solvation environments would provide a mechanism for selective distribution among these intracellular bodies. Here we use small molecule probes to show that different condensates have distinct chemical solvating properties and that selective partitioning of probes in condensates can be predicted with deep learning approaches. Our results demonstrate that different condensates harbor distinct chemical environments that influence the distribution of molecules, show that clues to condensate chemical grammar can be ascertained by machine learning and suggest approaches to facilitate development of small molecule therapeutics with optimal subcellular distribution and therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry R Kilgore
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Peter G Mikhael
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Jameel Clinic, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kalon J Overholt
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ann Boija
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nancy M Hannett
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Tong Ihn Lee
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Young-Tae Chang
- Department of Chemistry, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Regina Barzilay
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Jameel Clinic, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Richard A Young
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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42
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Yan X, Zhang M, Wang D. Interplay between posttranslational modifications and liquid‒liquid phase separation in tumors. Cancer Lett 2024; 584:216614. [PMID: 38246226 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Liquid‒liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a general phenomenon recently recognized to be critically involved in the regulation of a variety of cellular biological processes, such as transcriptional regulation, heterochromatin formation and signal transduction, through the compartmentalization of proteins or nucleic acids into droplet-like condensates. These processes are directly or indirectly related to tumor initiation and treatment. Posttranslational modifications (PTMs), which represent a rapid and reversible mechanism involved in the functional regulation of proteins, have emerged as key events in modulating LLPS under physiological or pathophysiological conditions, including tumorigenesis and antitumor therapy. In this review, we introduce the biological functions participated in cancer-associated LLPS, discuss the potential roles of LLPS during tumor onset or therapy, and emphasize the mechanistic characteristics of LLPS regulated by PTMs and its effects on tumor progression. We then provide a perspective on further studies on LLPS and its regulation by PTMs in cancer research. This review aims to broaden the understanding of the functions of LLPS and its regulation by PTMs under normal or aberrant cellular conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases & Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases & Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Donglai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases & Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
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43
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Dumelie JG, Chen Q, Miller D, Attarwala N, Gross SS, Jaffrey SR. Biomolecular condensates create phospholipid-enriched microenvironments. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:302-313. [PMID: 37973889 PMCID: PMC10922641 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01474-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Proteins and RNA can phase separate from the aqueous cellular environment to form subcellular compartments called condensates. This process results in a protein-RNA mixture that is chemically different from the surrounding aqueous phase. Here, we use mass spectrometry to characterize the metabolomes of condensates. To test this, we prepared mixtures of phase-separated proteins and extracts of cellular metabolites and identified metabolites enriched in the condensate phase. Among the most condensate-enriched metabolites were phospholipids, due primarily to the hydrophobicity of their fatty acyl moieties. We found that phospholipids can alter the number and size of phase-separated condensates and in some cases alter their morphology. Finally, we found that phospholipids partition into a diverse set of endogenous condensates as well as artificial condensates expressed in cells. Overall, these data show that many condensates are protein-RNA-lipid mixtures with chemical microenvironments that are ideally suited to facilitate phospholipid biology and signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason G Dumelie
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qiuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dawson Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nabeel Attarwala
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steven S Gross
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samie R Jaffrey
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
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44
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Garg A, Kumar G, Singh V, Sinha S. Doxorubicin catalyses self-assembly of p53 by phase separation. Curr Res Struct Biol 2024; 7:100133. [PMID: 38435052 PMCID: PMC10906149 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2024.100133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation plays a crucial role in cellular physiology, as it leads to the formation of membrane-less organelles in response to various internal stimuli, contributing to various cellular functions. However, the influence of exogenous stimuli on this process in the context of disease intervention remains unexplored. In this current investigation, we explore the impact of doxorubicin on the abnormal self-assembly of p53 using a combination of biophysical and imaging techniques. Additionally, we shed light on the potential mechanisms behind chemoresistance in cancer cells carrying mutant p53. Our findings reveal that doxorubicin co-localizes with both wild-type p53 (WTp53) and its mutant variants. Our in vitro experiments indicate that doxorubicin interacts with the N-terminal-deleted form of WTp53 (WTp53ΔNterm), inducing liquid-liquid phase separation, ultimately leading to protein aggregation. Notably, the p53 variants at the R273 position exhibit a propensity for phase separation even in the absence of doxorubicin, highlighting the destabilizing effects of point mutations at this position. The strong interaction between doxorubicin and p53 variants, along with its localization within the protein condensates, provides a potential explanation for the development of chemotherapy resistance. Collectively, our cellular and in vitro studies emphasize the role of exogenous agents in driving phase separation-mediated p53 aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Garg
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Gaurav Kumar
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Varinder Singh
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
| | - Sharmistha Sinha
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Sector- 81, Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab, 140306, India
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45
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Chung CI, Yang J, Yang X, Liu H, Ma Z, Szulzewsky F, Holland EC, Shen Y, Shu X. Phase separation of YAP-MAML2 differentially regulates the transcriptome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2310430121. [PMID: 38315854 PMCID: PMC10873646 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2310430121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Phase separation (PS) drives the formation of biomolecular condensates that are emerging biological structures involved in diverse cellular processes. Recent studies have unveiled PS-induced formation of several transcriptional factor (TF) condensates that are transcriptionally active, but how strongly PS promotes gene activation remains unclear. Here, we show that the oncogenic TF fusion Yes-associated protein 1-Mastermind like transcriptional coactivator 2 (YAP-MAML2) undergoes PS and forms liquid-like condensates that bear the hallmarks of transcriptional activity. Furthermore, we examined the contribution of PS to YAP-MAML2-mediated gene expression by developing a chemogenetic tool that dissolves TF condensates, allowing us to compare phase-separated and non-phase-separated conditions at identical YAP-MAML2 protein levels. We found that a small fraction of YAP-MAML2-regulated genes is further affected by PS, which include the canonical YAP target genes CTGF and CYR61, and other oncogenes. On the other hand, majority of YAP-MAML2-regulated genes are not affected by PS, highlighting that transcription can be activated effectively by diffuse complexes of TFs with the transcriptional machinery. Our work opens new directions in understanding the role of PS in selective modulation of gene expression, suggesting differential roles of PS in biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-I. Chung
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Junjiao Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Human Genetics, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Hongjiang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Human Genetics, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Zhimin Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Frank Szulzewsky
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA98109
| | - Eric C. Holland
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA98109
- Seattle Tumor Translational Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA98109
| | - Yin Shen
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Human Genetics, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Xiaokun Shu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA94158
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46
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Di Bona M, Bakhoum SF. Micronuclei and Cancer. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:214-226. [PMID: 38197599 PMCID: PMC11265298 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-1073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Chromosome-containing micronuclei are a feature of human cancer. Micronuclei arise from chromosome mis-segregation and characterize tumors with elevated rates of chromosomal instability. Although their association with cancer has been long recognized, only recently have we broadened our understanding of the mechanisms that govern micronuclei formation and their role in tumor progression. In this review, we provide a brief historical account of micronuclei, depict the mechanisms underpinning their creation, and illuminate their capacity to propel tumor evolution through genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional transformations. We also posit the prospect of leveraging micronuclei as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in chromosomally unstable cancers. SIGNIFICANCE Micronuclei in chromosomally unstable cancer cells serve as pivotal catalysts for cancer progression, instigating transformative genomic, epigenetic, and transcriptional alterations. This comprehensive review not only synthesizes our present comprehension but also outlines a framework for translating this knowledge into pioneering biomarkers and therapeutics, thereby illuminating novel paths for personalized cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Di Bona
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Samuel F. Bakhoum
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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47
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Fan WW, Xu T, Gao J, Zhang HY, Li Y, Hu DD, Gao S, Zhang JH, Liu X, Liu D, Li PL, Wong CCL, Yao XB, Shi YY, Yang ZY, Wang XS, Ruan K. A bivalent inhibitor against TDRD3 to suppress phase separation of methylated G3BP1. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:762-765. [PMID: 38126399 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc04654k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The formation of membrane-less organelles is driven by multivalent weak interactions while mediation of such interactions by small molecules remains an unparalleled challenge. Here, we uncovered a bivalent inhibitor that blocked the recruitment of TDRD3 by the two methylated arginines of G3BP1. Relative to the monovalent inhibitor, this bivalent inhibitor demonstrated an enhanced binding affinity to TDRD3 and capability to suppress the phase separation of methylated G3BP1, TDRD3, and RNAs, and in turn inhibit the stress granule growth in cells. Our result paves a new path to mediate multivalent interactions involved in SG assembly for potential combinational chemotherapy by bivalent inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Fan
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Tian Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Jia Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Han-Yu Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Duo-Duo Hu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Shuaixin Gao
- Center for Precision Medicine Multi-omics Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University First Hospital; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jia-Hai Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Xing Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Dan Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Pi-Long Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology & Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Catherine C L Wong
- Center for Precision Medicine Multi-omics Research, Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University First Hospital; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xue-Biao Yao
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Yun-Yu Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Zhen-Ye Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Xi-Sheng Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Ke Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
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48
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Lu H, Yang X, Wang H. Tuning Phase Transition of Molecular Self-Assembly by Artificial Chaperones through Aromatic-Aromatic Interactions. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:466-473. [PMID: 38147794 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c01082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
The molecular chaperones are essential and play significant roles in controlling the protein phase transition and maintaining physiological homeostasis. However, manipulating phase transformation in biomimetic peptide self-assembly is still challenging. This work shows that an artificial chaperone modulates the energy landscape of supramolecular polymerization, thus controlling the phase transition of amyloid-like assemblies from crystals to hydrogels to solution. The absence of a chaperone allows the NapP to form crystals, while the presence of the chaperone biases the pathway to form nanofibrous hydrogels to soluble oligomers by adjusting the chaperone ratios. Mechanistic studies reveal that the aromatic-aromatic interaction is the key to trapping the molecules in a higher energy fold. Adding the chaperone relieves this restriction, lowers the energy barrier, and transforms the crystal into a hydrogel. This phase transformation can also be achieved in the macromolecular crowding environment, thus providing new insights into understanding molecular self-assembly in multiple component systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglei Lu
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310027, China
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Westlake University, No. 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310024, China
| | - Xuejiao Yang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Westlake University, No. 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310024, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310024, China
| | - Huaimin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Westlake University, No. 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310024, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310024, China
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49
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Tabandeh S, Ateeq T, Leon L. Drug Encapsulation via Peptide-Based Polyelectrolyte Complexes. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300440. [PMID: 37875787 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300440] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Peptide-based polyelectrolyte complexes are biocompatible materials that can encapsulate molecules with different polarities due to their ability to be precisely designed. Here we use UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy to investigate the encapsulation of model drugs, doxorubicin (DOX) and methylene blue (MB) using a series of rationally designed polypeptides. For both drugs, we find an overall higher encapsulation efficiency with sequences that have higher charge density, highlighting the importance of ionic interactions between the small molecules and the peptides. However, comparing molecules with the same charge density, illustrated that the most hydrophobic sequence pairs had the highest encapsulation of both DOX and MB molecules. The phase behavior and stability of DOX-containing complexes did not change compared to the complexes without drugs. However, MB encapsulation caused changes in the stabilities of the complexes. The sequence pair with the highest charge density and hydrophobicity had the most dramatic increase in stability, which coincided with a phase change from liquid to solid. This study illustrates how multiple types of molecular interactions are required for efficient encapsulation of poorly soluble drugs and provides insights into the molecular design of delivery carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tabandeh
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Central Florida, 12760 Pegasus Dr, Orlando, FL-32816, USA
| | - Tahoora Ateeq
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Central Florida, 12760 Pegasus Dr, Orlando, FL-32816, USA
| | - Lorraine Leon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Central Florida, 12760 Pegasus Dr, Orlando, FL-32816, USA
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Pkwy #400, Orlando, FL-32826, USA
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Zheng LW, Liu CC, Yu KD. Phase separations in oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis: a glance from hallmarks of cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:123. [PMID: 38110976 PMCID: PMC10726551 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01522-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for interpreting precise spatiotemporal coordination in living cells through biomolecular condensate (BMC) formation via dynamic aggregation. LLPS changes individual molecules into membrane-free, droplet-like BMCs with specific functions, which coordinate various cellular activities. The formation and regulation of LLPS are closely associated with oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis, the specific roles and mechanisms of LLPS in tumors still need to be further investigated at present. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the conditions of LLPS and identify mechanisms involved in abnormal LLPS in cancer processes, including tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis from the perspective of cancer hallmarks. We have also reviewed the clinical applications of LLPS in oncologic areas. This systematic summary of dysregulated LLPS from the different dimensions of cancer hallmarks will build a bridge for determining its specific functions to further guide basic research, finding strategies to intervene in LLPS, and developing relevant therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Wei Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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