1
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Brindani N, Vuong LM, La Serra MA, Salvador N, Menichetti A, Acquistapace IM, Ortega JA, Veronesi M, Bertozzi SM, Summa M, Girotto S, Bertorelli R, Armirotti A, Ganesan AK, De Vivo M. Discovery of CDC42 Inhibitors with a Favorable Pharmacokinetic Profile and Anticancer In Vivo Efficacy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:10401-10424. [PMID: 38866385 PMCID: PMC11215724 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00855] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
We previously reported trisubstituted pyrimidine lead compounds, namely, ARN22089 and ARN25062, which block the interaction between CDC42 with its specific downstream effector, a PAK protein. This interaction is crucial for the progression of multiple tumor types. Such inhibitors showed anticancer efficacy in vivo. Here, we describe a second class of CDC42 inhibitors with favorable drug-like properties. Out of the 25 compounds here reported, compound 15 (ARN25499) stands out as the best lead compound with an improved pharmacokinetic profile, increased bioavailability, and efficacy in an in vivo PDX tumor mouse model. Our results indicate that these CDC42 inhibitors represent a promising chemical class toward the discovery of anticancer drugs, with ARN25499 as an additional lead candidate for preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Brindani
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Linh M. Vuong
- Department
of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Maria Antonietta La Serra
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Noel Salvador
- Department
of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Andrea Menichetti
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Isabella Maria Acquistapace
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Jose Antonio Ortega
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Marina Veronesi
- Structural
Biophysics Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Sine Mandrup Bertozzi
- Analytical
Chemistry Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Summa
- Translational
Pharmacology Facility, Istituto Italiano
di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefania Girotto
- Structural
Biophysics Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Translational
Pharmacology Facility, Istituto Italiano
di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Armirotti
- Analytical
Chemistry Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Anand K. Ganesan
- Department
of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Marco De Vivo
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
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2
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Yin G, Huang J, Petela J, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wu J, Liu B, Shi J, Gao Y. Targeting small GTPases: emerging grasps on previously untamable targets, pioneered by KRAS. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:212. [PMID: 37221195 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases including Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran are omnipresent molecular switches in regulating key cellular functions. Their dysregulation is a therapeutic target for tumors, neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, and infection. However, small GTPases have been historically recognized as "undruggable". Targeting KRAS, one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, has only come into reality in the last decade due to the development of breakthrough strategies such as fragment-based screening, covalent ligands, macromolecule inhibitors, and PROTACs. Two KRASG12C covalent inhibitors have obtained accelerated approval for treating KRASG12C mutant lung cancer, and allele-specific hotspot mutations on G12D/S/R have been demonstrated as viable targets. New methods of targeting KRAS are quickly evolving, including transcription, immunogenic neoepitopes, and combinatory targeting with immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the vast majority of small GTPases and hotspot mutations remain elusive, and clinical resistance to G12C inhibitors poses new challenges. In this article, we summarize diversified biological functions, shared structural properties, and complex regulatory mechanisms of small GTPases and their relationships with human diseases. Furthermore, we review the status of drug discovery for targeting small GTPases and the most recent strategic progress focused on targeting KRAS. The discovery of new regulatory mechanisms and development of targeting approaches will together promote drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Johnny Petela
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yuetong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siqi Gong
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bei Liu
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, School of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Yijun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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3
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Brindani N, Vuong LM, Acquistapace IM, La Serra MA, Ortega JA, Veronesi M, Bertozzi SM, Summa M, Girotto S, Bertorelli R, Armirotti A, Ganesan AK, De Vivo M. Design, Synthesis, In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of CDC42 GTPase Interaction Inhibitors for the Treatment of Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:5981-6001. [PMID: 37026468 PMCID: PMC10150367 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00276] [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: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
CDC42 GTPases (RHOJ, CDC42, and RHOQ) are overexpressed in multiple tumor types and activate pathways critical for tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Recently, we reported the discovery of a novel lead compound, ARN22089, which blocks the interaction of CDC42 GTPases with specific downstream effectors. ARN22089 blocks tumor growth in BRAF mutant mouse melanoma models and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) in vivo. ARN22089 also inhibits tumor angiogenesis in three-dimensional vascularized microtumor models in vitro. Notably, ARN22089 belongs to a novel class of trisubstituted pyrimidines. Based on these results, we describe an extensive structure-activity relationship of ∼30 compounds centered on ARN22089. We discovered and optimized two novel inhibitors (27, ARN25062, and 28, ARN24928), which are optimal back-up/follow-up leads with favorable drug-like properties and in vivo efficacy in PDX tumors. These findings further demonstrate the potential of this class of CDC42/RHOJ inhibitors for cancer treatment, with lead candidates ready for advanced preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Brindani
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Linh M. Vuong
- Department
of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Isabella Maria Acquistapace
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta La Serra
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - José Antonio Ortega
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Marina Veronesi
- Structural
Biophysics Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Sine Mandrup Bertozzi
- Analytical
Chemistry Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Maria Summa
- Translational
Pharmacology Facility, Istituto Italiano
di Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Stefania Girotto
- Structural
Biophysics Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Translational
Pharmacology Facility, Istituto Italiano
di Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Andrea Armirotti
- Analytical
Chemistry Facility, Istituto Italiano di
Tecnologia, Via Morego
30, Genova 16163, Italy
| | - Anand K. Ganesan
- Department
of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Marco De Vivo
- Molecular
Modeling and Drug Discovery Lab, Istituto
Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genova 16163, Italy
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4
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Singh G, Thakur N, Kumar U. RAS: Circuitry and therapeutic targeting. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110505. [PMID: 36341985 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110505] [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: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cancer has affected the lives of millions worldwide and is truly regarded as a devastating disease process. Despite advanced understanding of the genomic underpinning of cancer development and progression, therapeutic challenges are still persistent. Among all the human cancers, around 33% are attributed to mutations in RAS oncogene, a crucial component of the signaling pathways. With time, our understanding of RAS circuitry has improved and now the fact that it activates several downstream effectors, depending on the type and grades of cancer has been established. The circuitry is controlled via post-transcriptional mechanisms and frequent distortions in these mechanisms lead to important metabolic as well as immunological states that favor cancer cells' growth, survival, plasticity and metastasis. Therefore, understanding RAS circuitry can help researchers/clinicians to develop novel and potent therapeutics that, in turn, can save the lives of patients suffering from RAS-mutant cancers. There are many challenges presented by resistance and the potential strategies with a particular focus on novel combinations for overcoming these, that could move beyond transitory responses in the direction of treatment. Here in this review, we will look at how understanding the circuitry of RAS can be put to use in making strategies for developing therapeutics against RAS- driven malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, NH-05, Ludhiana - Chandigarh State Hwy, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab 140413, India
| | - Neelam Thakur
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, NH-05, Ludhiana - Chandigarh State Hwy, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab 140413, India; Department of Zoology, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Government College Campus, Paddal, Kartarpur, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001, India.
| | - Umesh Kumar
- School of Biosciences, Institute of Management Studies Ghaziabad (University Courses Campus), Adhyatmik Nagar, NH09, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201015, India.
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5
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Siebenaler RF, Chugh S, Waninger JJ, Dommeti VL, Kenum C, Mody M, Gautam A, Patel N, Chu A, Bawa P, Hon J, Smith RD, Carlson H, Cao X, Tesmer JJG, Shankar S, Chinnaiyan AM. Argonaute 2 modulates EGFR-RAS signaling to promote mutant HRAS and NRAS-driven malignancies. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac084. [PMID: 35923912 PMCID: PMC9338400 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Activating mutations in RAS GTPases drive nearly 30% of all human cancers. Our prior work described an essential role for Argonaute 2 (AGO2), of the RNA-induced silencing complex, in mutant KRAS-driven cancers. Here, we identified a novel endogenous interaction between AGO2 and RAS in both wild-type (WT) and mutant HRAS/NRAS cells. This interaction was regulated through EGFR-mediated phosphorylation of Y393-AGO2, and utilizing molecular dynamic simulation, we identified a conformational change in pY393-AGO2 protein structure leading to disruption of the RAS binding site. Knockdown of AGO2 led to a profound decrease in proliferation of mutant HRAS/NRAS-driven cell lines but not WT RAS cells. These cells demonstrated oncogene-induced senescence (OIS) as evidenced by β-galactosidase staining and induction of multiple downstream senescence effectors. Mechanistically, we discovered that the senescent phenotype was mediated via induction of reactive oxygen species. Intriguingly, we further identified that loss of AGO2 promoted a novel feed forward pathway leading to inhibition of the PTP1B phosphatase and activation of EGFR-MAPK signaling, consequently resulting in OIS. Taken together, our study demonstrates that the EGFR-AGO2-RAS signaling axis is essential for maintaining mutant HRAS and NRAS-driven malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica J Waninger
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Vijaya L Dommeti
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Carson Kenum
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Malay Mody
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Anudeeta Gautam
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Nidhi Patel
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Alec Chu
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Pushpinder Bawa
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jennifer Hon
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Richard D Smith
- College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Heather Carlson
- College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - John J G Tesmer
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Sunita Shankar
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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6
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Sheffels E, Sealover NE, Theard PL, Kortum RL. Anchorage-independent growth conditions reveal a differential SOS2 dependence for transformation and survival in RAS-mutant cancer cells. Small GTPases 2021; 12:67-78. [PMID: 31062644 PMCID: PMC7781674 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2019.1611168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS family of genes (HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS) is mutated in around 30% of human tumours. Wild-type RAS isoforms play an important role in mutant RAS-driven oncogenesis, indicating that RasGEFs may play a significant role in mutant RAS-driven transformation. We recently reported a hierarchical requirement for SOS2 in mutant RAS-driven transformation in mouse embryonic fibroblasts, with KRAS>NRAS>HRAS (Sheffels et al., 2018). However, whether SOS2 deletion differentially affects mutant RAS isoform-dependent transformation in human tumour cell lines has not been tested. After validating sgRNAs that efficiently deleted HRAS and NRAS, we showed that the differential requirement for SOS2 to support anchorage-independent (3D) growth, which we previously demonstrated in MEFs, held true in cancer cells. KRAS-mutant cells showed a high dependence on SOS2 for 3D growth, as previously shown, whereas HRAS-mutant cells did not require SOS2 for 3D growth. This differential requirement was not due to differences in RTK-stimulated WT RAS activation, as SOS2 deletion reduced RTK-stimulated WT RAS/PI3K/AKT signalling in both HRAS and KRAS mutated cell lines. Instead, this differential requirement of SOS2 to promote transformation was due to the differential sensitivity of RAS-mutated cancer cells to reductions in WT RAS/PI3K/AKT signalling. KRAS mutated cancer cells required SOS2/PI3K signaling to protect them from anoikis, whereas survival of both HRAS and NRAS mutated cancer cells was not altered by SOS2 deletion. Finally, we present an integrated working model of SOS signaling in the context of mutant KRAS based on our findings and those of others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Sheffels
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nancy E. Sealover
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Patricia L. Theard
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robert L. Kortum
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
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7
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Zheng ZY, Anurag M, Lei JT, Cao J, Singh P, Peng J, Kennedy H, Nguyen NC, Chen Y, Lavere P, Li J, Du XH, Cakar B, Song W, Kim BJ, Shi J, Seker S, Chan DW, Zhao GQ, Chen X, Banks KC, Lanman RB, Shafaee MN, Zhang XHF, Vasaikar S, Zhang B, Hilsenbeck SG, Li W, Foulds CE, Ellis MJ, Chang EC. Neurofibromin Is an Estrogen Receptor-α Transcriptional Co-repressor in Breast Cancer. Cancer Cell 2020; 37:387-402.e7. [PMID: 32142667 PMCID: PMC7286719 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We report that neurofibromin, a tumor suppressor and Ras-GAP (GTPase-activating protein), is also an estrogen receptor-α (ER) transcriptional co-repressor through leucine/isoleucine-rich motifs that are functionally independent of GAP activity. GAP activity, in turn, does not affect ER binding. Consequently, neurofibromin depletion causes estradiol hypersensitivity and tamoxifen agonism, explaining the poor prognosis associated with neurofibromin loss in endocrine therapy-treated ER+ breast cancer. Neurofibromin-deficient ER+ breast cancer cells initially retain sensitivity to selective ER degraders (SERDs). However, Ras activation does play a role in acquired SERD resistance, which can be reversed upon MEK inhibitor addition, and SERD/MEK inhibitor combinations induce tumor regression. Thus, neurofibromin is a dual repressor for both Ras and ER signaling, and co-targeting may treat neurofibromin-deficient ER+ breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Yi Zheng
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Meenakshi Anurag
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan T Lei
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jin Cao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Purba Singh
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jianheng Peng
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Physical Examination, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Hilda Kennedy
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nhu-Chau Nguyen
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yue Chen
- Adrienne Helis Malvin Medical Research Foundation, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Philip Lavere
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xin-Hui Du
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Bone and Soft Tissue, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Henan Cancer Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Burcu Cakar
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wei Song
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Beom-Jun Kim
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jiejun Shi
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sinem Seker
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Doug W Chan
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Guo-Qiang Zhao
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Henan Cancer Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Maryam Nemati Shafaee
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiang H-F Zhang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Suhas Vasaikar
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bing Zhang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Susan G Hilsenbeck
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Charles E Foulds
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew J Ellis
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Eric C Chang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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8
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Olayioye MA, Noll B, Hausser A. Spatiotemporal Control of Intracellular Membrane Trafficking by Rho GTPases. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121478. [PMID: 31766364 PMCID: PMC6952795 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As membrane-associated master regulators of cytoskeletal remodeling, Rho GTPases coordinate a wide range of biological processes such as cell adhesion, motility, and polarity. In the last years, Rho GTPases have also been recognized to control intracellular membrane sorting and trafficking steps directly; however, how Rho GTPase signaling is regulated at endomembranes is still poorly understood. In this review, we will specifically address the local Rho GTPase pools coordinating intracellular membrane trafficking with a focus on the endo- and exocytic pathways. We will further highlight the spatiotemporal molecular regulation of Rho signaling at endomembrane sites through Rho regulatory proteins, the GEFs and GAPs. Finally, we will discuss the contribution of dysregulated Rho signaling emanating from endomembranes to the development and progression of cancer.
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9
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Gimple RC, Wang X. RAS: Striking at the Core of the Oncogenic Circuitry. Front Oncol 2019; 9:965. [PMID: 31681559 PMCID: PMC6798062 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a devastating disease process that touches the lives of millions worldwide. Despite advances in our understanding of the genomic architecture of cancers and the mechanisms that underlie cancer development, a great therapeutic challenge remains. Here, we revisit the birthplace of cancer biology and review how one of the first discovered oncogenes, RAS, drives cancers in new and unexpected ways. As our understanding of oncogenic signaling has evolved, it is clear that RAS signaling is not homogenous, but activates distinct downstream effectors in different cancer types and grades. RAS signaling is tightly controlled through a series of post-transcriptional mechanisms, which are frequently distorted in the context of cancer, and establish key metabolic and immunologic states that support cancer growth, migration, survival, metastasis, and plasticity. While targeting RAS has been fiercely pursued for decades, new strategies have recently emerged with the potential for therapeutic efficacy. Thus, understanding the complexities of RAS biology may translate into improved therapies for patients with RAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Gimple
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.,Department of Pathology, Case Western University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Xiuxing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of Ministry of Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Killoran RC, Smith MJ. Conformational resolution of nucleotide cycling and effector interactions for multiple small GTPases determined in parallel. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:9937-9948. [PMID: 31088913 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.008653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases alternatively bind GDP/GTP guanine nucleotides to gate signaling pathways that direct most cellular processes. Numerous GTPases are implicated in oncogenesis, particularly the three RAS isoforms HRAS, KRAS, and NRAS and the RHO family GTPase RAC1. Signaling networks comprising small GTPases are highly connected, and there is some evidence of direct biochemical cross-talk between their functional G-domains. The activation potential of a given GTPase is contingent on a codependent interaction with the nucleotide and a Mg2+ ion, which bind to individual variants with distinct affinities coordinated by residues in the GTPase nucleotide-binding pocket. Here, we utilized a selective-labeling strategy coupled with real-time NMR spectroscopy to monitor nucleotide exchange, GTP hydrolysis, and effector interactions of multiple small GTPases in a single complex system. We provide insight into nucleotide preference and the role of Mg2+ in activating both WT and oncogenic mutant enzymes. Multiplexing revealed guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF), GTPase-activating protein (GAP), and effector-binding specificities in mixtures of GTPases and resolved that the three related RAS isoforms are biochemically equivalent. This work establishes that direct quantitation of the nucleotide-bound conformation is required to accurately determine an activation potential for any given GTPase, as small GTPases such as RAS-like proto-oncogene A (RALA) or the G12C mutant of KRAS display fast exchange kinetics but have a high affinity for GDP. Furthermore, we propose that the G-domains of small GTPases behave autonomously in solution and that nucleotide cycling proceeds independently of protein concentration but is highly impacted by Mg2+ abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Killoran
- From the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer and
| | - Matthew J Smith
- From the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer and .,Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
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11
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Angeles AKJ, Yu RTD, Cutiongco-De La Paz EM, Garcia RL. Phenotypic characterization of the novel, non-hotspot oncogenic KRAS mutants E31D and E63K. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:420-432. [PMID: 31289513 PMCID: PMC6540134 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KRAS proto-oncogene, GTPase (KRAS) functions as a molecular switch at the apex of multiple signaling pathways controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival. Canonical KRAS mutants, such as those in codons 12 and 13, produce constitutively active oncoproteins that short-circuit epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-initiated signaling, resulting in dysregulated downstream effectors associated with cellular transformation. Therefore, anti-EGFR therapy provides little to no clinical benefit to patients with activating KRAS mutations. Current genotyping procedures based on canonical mutation detection only account for ~40% of non-responders, highlighting the need to identify additional predictive biomarkers. In the present study, two novel non-hotspot KRAS mutations were functionally characterized in vitro: KRAS E31D was identified from a genetic screen of colorectal cancer specimens at the UP-National Institutes of Health. KRAS E63K is curated in the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer database. Similar to the canonical mutants KRAS G12D and KRAS G13D, NIH3T3 cells overexpressing KRAS E31D and KRAS E63K showed altered morphology and were characteristically smaller, rounder, and highly refractile compared with their non-transformed counterparts. Filamentous actin staining also indicated cytoplasmic shrinkage, membrane ruffling, and formation of pseudopod protrusions. Further, they displayed higher proliferative rates and higher migratory rates in scratch wound assays compared with negative controls. These empirical findings suggest the activating impact of the novel KRAS mutations, which may contribute to resistance to anti-EGFR therapy. Complementary studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the transforming effect of the rare mutants are required. In parallel, their oncogenic capacity in vivo should also be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlou Kristina J Angeles
- Disease Molecular Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Science Complex, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Ryan Timothy D Yu
- Disease Molecular Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Science Complex, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Eva Maria Cutiongco-De La Paz
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines.,Philippine Genome Center, University of the Philippines System, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Reynaldo L Garcia
- Disease Molecular Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Science Complex, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.,Philippine Genome Center, University of the Philippines System, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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12
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Aguilar BJ, Zhao Y, Zhou H, Huo S, Chen YH, Lu Q. Inhibition of Cdc42-intersectin interaction by small molecule ZCL367 impedes cancer cell cycle progression, proliferation, migration, and tumor growth. Cancer Biol Ther 2019; 20:740-749. [PMID: 30849276 PMCID: PMC6606017 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2018.1564559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cdc42 is a member of the Rho family of small GTPases that are at the crossroads of major oncogenic signaling pathways involved in both lung and prostate cancers. However, the therapeutic potential of Cdc42 regulation is still unclear due to the lack of pharmacological tools. Herein, we report that ZCL367 is a bona fide Cdc42 inhibitor that suppressed cancer development and ZCL278 can act as a partial Cdc42 agonist. In lung cancer cell lines with varying EGFR and Ras mutations as well as both androgen-independent and androgen-dependent prostate cancer cell lines, ZCL367 impeded cell cycle progression, reduced proliferation, and suppressed migration. ZCL367 decreased Cdc42-intersectin interactions and reduced Cdc42-mediated filopodia formation. ZCL367 showed increased potency and selectivity for Cdc42 when compared to Rac1 and RhoA. ZCL367 reduced A549 tumorigenesis in a xenograft mouse model. Altogether, ZCL367 is a selective Cdc42 inhibitor and an excellent candidate for lead compound optimization for further anticancer studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron J. Aguilar
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Yaxue Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shouquan Huo
- Department of Chemistry, Harriot College of Arts and Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Yan-Hua Chen
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
- The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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13
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Cardoso C, Serafim RB, Kawakami A, Gonçalves Pereira C, Vazquez VL, Valente V, Fisher DE, Espreafico EM. The lncRNA RMEL3 protects immortalized cells from serum withdrawal-induced growth arrest and promotes melanoma cell proliferation and tumor growth. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2019; 32:303-314. [PMID: 30457212 PMCID: PMC6613776 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RMEL3 is a recently identified lncRNA associated with BRAFV600E mutation and melanoma cell survival. Here, we demonstrate strong and moderate RMEL3 upregulation in BRAF and NRAS mutant melanoma cells, respectively, compared to melanocytes. High expression is also more frequent in cutaneous than in acral/mucosal melanomas, and analysis of an ICGC melanoma dataset showed that mutations in RMEL3 locus are preponderantly C > T substitutions at dipyrimidine sites including CC > TT, typical of UV signature. RMEL3 mutation does not correlate with RMEL3 levels, but does with poor patient survival, in TCGA melanoma dataset. Accordingly, RMEL3 lncRNA levels were significantly reduced in BRAFV600E melanoma cells upon treatment with BRAF or MEK inhibitors, supporting the notion that BRAF-MEK-ERK pathway plays a role to activate RMEL3 gene transcription. RMEL3 overexpression, in immortalized fibroblasts and melanoma cells, increased proliferation and survival under serum starvation, clonogenic ability, and xenografted melanoma tumor growth. Although future studies will be needed to elucidate the mechanistic activities of RMEL3, our data demonstrate that its overexpression bypasses the need of mitogen activation to sustain proliferation/survival of non-transformed cells and suggest an oncogenic role for RMEL3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cibele Cardoso
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rodolfo B. Serafim
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Akinori Kawakami
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cristiano Gonçalves Pereira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Vinicius L. Vazquez
- Molecular Oncology Research Center (CPOM) and Melanoma/sarcoma Surgery Department, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, SP, Brazil
| | - Valeria Valente
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Rodovia Araraquara - Jaú, Km 01 - s/n, Campos Ville, SP, 14800-903, Brazil; Center for Cell-Based Therapy CEPID/FAPESP, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - David E. Fisher
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Enilza M. Espreafico
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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14
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Abstract
The three RAS genes - HRAS, NRAS and KRAS - are collectively mutated in one-third of human cancers, where they act as prototypic oncogenes. Interestingly, there are rather distinct patterns to RAS mutations; the isoform mutated as well as the position and type of substitution vary between different cancers. As RAS genes are among the earliest, if not the first, genes mutated in a variety of cancers, understanding how these mutation patterns arise could inform on not only how cancer begins but also the factors influencing this event, which has implications for cancer prevention. To this end, we suggest that there is a narrow window or 'sweet spot' by which oncogenic RAS signalling can promote tumour initiation in normal cells. As a consequence, RAS mutation patterns in each normal cell are a product of the specific RAS isoform mutated, as well as the position of the mutation and type of substitution to achieve an ideal level of signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allan Balmain
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christopher M Counter
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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15
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Ritchie C, Mack A, Harper L, Alfadhli A, Stork PJS, Nan X, Barklis E. Analysis of K-Ras Interactions by Biotin Ligase Tagging. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2018. [PMID: 28647697 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations of the human K-Ras 4B (K-Ras) G protein are associated with a significant proportion of all human cancers. Despite this fact, a comprehensive analysis of K-Ras interactions is lacking. Our investigations focus on characterization of the K-Ras interaction network. MATERIALS AND METHODS We employed a biotin ligase-tagging approach, in which tagged K-Ras proteins biotinylate neighbor proteins in a proximity-dependent fashion, and proteins are identified via mass spectrometry (MS) sequencing. RESULTS In transfected cells, a total of 748 biotinylated proteins were identified from cells expressing biotin ligase-tagged K-Ras variants. Significant differences were observed between membrane-associated variants and a farnesylation-defective mutant. In pancreatic cancer cells, 56 K-Ras interaction partners were identified. Most of these were cytoskeletal or plasma membrane proteins, and many have been identified previously as potential cancer biomarkers. CONCLUSION Biotin ligase tagging offers a rapid and convenient approach to the characterization of K-Ras interaction networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Ritchie
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Andrew Mack
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Logan Harper
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Ayna Alfadhli
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Philip J S Stork
- Department of Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Xiaolin Nan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A
| | - Eric Barklis
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, U.S.A.
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16
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Tebar F, Enrich C, Rentero C, Grewal T. GTPases Rac1 and Ras Signaling from Endosomes. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR AND SUBCELLULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 57:65-105. [PMID: 30097772 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-96704-2_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endocytic compartment is not only the functional continuity of the plasma membrane but consists of a diverse collection of intracellular heterogeneous complex structures that transport, amplify, sustain, and/or sort signaling molecules. Over the years, it has become evident that early, late, and recycling endosomes represent an interconnected vesicular-tubular network able to form signaling platforms that dynamically and efficiently translate extracellular signals into biological outcome. Cell activation, differentiation, migration, death, and survival are some of the endpoints of endosomal signaling. Hence, to understand the role of the endosomal system in signal transduction in space and time, it is therefore necessary to dissect and identify the plethora of decoders that are operational in the different steps along the endocytic pathway. In this chapter, we focus on the regulation of spatiotemporal signaling in cells, considering endosomes as central platforms, in which several small GTPases proteins of the Ras superfamily, in particular Ras and Rac1, actively participate to control cellular processes like proliferation and cell mobility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesc Tebar
- Departament de Biomedicina, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Centre de Recerca Biomèdica CELLEX, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carlos Enrich
- Departament de Biomedicina, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Centre de Recerca Biomèdica CELLEX, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Rentero
- Departament de Biomedicina, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Centre de Recerca Biomèdica CELLEX, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thomas Grewal
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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17
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Concepts and advances in cancer therapeutic vulnerabilities in RAS membrane targeting. Semin Cancer Biol 2017; 54:121-130. [PMID: 29203271 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2017.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
For decades oncogenic RAS proteins were considered undruggable due to a lack of accessible binding pockets on the protein surfaces. Seminal early research in RAS biology uncovered the basic paradigm of post-translational isoprenylation of RAS polypeptides, typically with covalent attachment of a farnesyl group, leading to isoprenyl-mediated RAS anchorage at the plasma membrane and signal initiation at those sites. However, the failure of farnesyltransferase inhibitors to translate to the clinic stymied anti-RAS therapy development. Over the past ten years, a more complete picture has emerged of RAS protein maturation, intracellular trafficking, and location, positioning and retention in subdomains at the plasma membrane, with a corresponding expansion in our understanding of how these properties of RAS contribute to signal outputs. Each of these aspects of RAS regulation presents a potential vulnerability in RAS function that may be exploited for therapeutic targeting, and inhibitors have been identified or developed that interfere with RAS for nearly all of them. This review will summarize current understanding of RAS membrane targeting with a focus on highlighting development and outcomes of inhibitors at each step.
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18
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Szymanska E, Budick-Harmelin N, Miaczynska M. Endosomal "sort" of signaling control: The role of ESCRT machinery in regulation of receptor-mediated signaling pathways. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 74:11-20. [PMID: 28797837 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRTs) machinery consists of four protein assemblies (ESCRT-0 to -III subcomplexes) which mediate various processes of membrane remodeling in the cell. In the endocytic pathway, ESCRTs sort cargo destined for degradation into intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) of endosomes. Cargos targeted by ESCRTs include various signaling molecules, mainly internalized cell-surface receptors but also some cytosolic proteins. It is therefore expected that aberrant trafficking caused by ESCRT dysfunction affects different signaling pathways. Here we review how perturbation of ESCRT activity alters intracellular transport of membrane receptors, causing their accumulation on endocytic compartments, decreased degradation and/or altered recycling to the plasma membrane. We further describe how perturbed trafficking of receptors impacts the activity of their downstream signaling pathways, with or without changes in transcriptional responses. Finally, we present evidence that ESCRT components can also control activity and intracellular distribution of cytosolic signaling proteins (kinases, other effectors and soluble receptors). The underlying mechanisms involve sequestration of such proteins in ILVs, their sorting for degradation or towards non-lysosomal destinations, and regulating their availability in various cellular compartments. All these ESCRT-mediated processes can modulate final outputs of multiple signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Szymanska
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Noga Budick-Harmelin
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland; Cell Research and Immunology Department, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Marta Miaczynska
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland.
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19
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Goldfinger LE, Michael JV. Regulation of Ras signaling and function by plasma membrane microdomains. Biosci Trends 2017; 11:23-40. [PMID: 28179601 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2016.01220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Together H-, N- and KRAS mutations are major contributors to ~30% of all human cancers. Thus, Ras inhibition remains an important anti-cancer strategy. The molecular mechanisms of isotypic Ras oncogenesis are still not completely understood. Monopharmacological therapeutics have not been successful in the clinic. These disappointing outcomes have led to attempts to target elements downstream of Ras, mainly targeting either the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K) or Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathways. While several such approaches are moderately effective, recent efforts have focused on preclinical evaluation of combination therapies to improve efficacies. This review will detail current understanding of the contributions of plasma membrane microdomain targeting of Ras to mitogenic and tumorigenic signaling and tumor progression. Moreover, this review will outline novel approaches to target Ras in cancers, including targeting schemes for new drug development, as well as putative re-purposing of drugs in current use to take advantage of blunting Ras signaling by interfering with Ras plasma membrane microdomain targeting and retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence E Goldfinger
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology and The Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, and Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center
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20
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Zhang L, Varma NR, Gang ZZ, Ewing JR, Arbab AS, Ali MM. Targeting Triple Negative Breast Cancer with a Small-sized Paramagnetic Nanoparticle. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 7. [PMID: 28018751 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7439.1000404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
There is no available targeted therapy or imaging agent for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). We developed a small-sized dendrimer-based nanoparticle containing a clinical relevant MRI contrast agent, GdDOTA and a NIR fluorescent dye, DL680. Systemic delivery of dual-modal nanoparticles led to accumulation of the agents in a flank mouse model of TNBC that were detected by both optical and MR imaging. In-vivo fluorescence images, as well as ex-vivo fluorescence images of individual organs, demonstrated that nanoparticles accumulated into tumor selectively. A dual modal strategy resulted in a selective delivery of a small-sized (GdDOTA)42-G4-DL680 dendrimeric agent to TNBC tumors, avoiding other major organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | | | - Zhang Z Gang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - James R Ewing
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Ali S Arbab
- Tumor Angiogenesis Laboratory, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Meser M Ali
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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21
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Regulation of H-Ras-driven MAPK signaling, transformation and tumorigenesis, but not PI3K signaling and tumor progression, by plasma membrane microdomains. Oncogenesis 2016; 5:e228. [PMID: 27239960 PMCID: PMC4945753 DOI: 10.1038/oncsis.2016.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we assessed the contributions of plasma membrane (PM) microdomain targeting to the functions of H-Ras and R-Ras. These paralogs have identical effector-binding regions, but variant C-terminal targeting domains (tDs) which are responsible for lateral microdomain distribution: activated H-Ras targets to lipid ordered/disordered (Lo/Ld) domain borders, and R-Ras to Lo domains (rafts). We hypothesized that PM distribution regulates Ras-effector interactions and downstream signaling. We used tD swap mutants, and assessed effects on signal transduction, cell proliferation, transformation and tumorigenesis. R-Ras harboring the H-Ras tD (R-Ras-tH) interacted with Raf, and induced Raf and ERK phosphorylation similar to H-Ras. R-Ras-tH stimulated proliferation and transformation in vitro, and these effects were blocked by both MEK and PI3K inhibition. Conversely, the R-Ras tD suppressed H-Ras-mediated Raf activation and ERK phosphorylation, proliferation and transformation. Thus, Ras access to Raf at the PM is sufficient for MAPK activation and is a principal component of Ras mitogenesis and transformation. Fusion of the R-Ras extended N-terminal domain to H-Ras had no effect on proliferation, but inhibited transformation and tumor progression, indicating that the R-Ras N-terminus also contributes negative regulation to these Ras functions. PI3K activation was tD independent; however, H-Ras was a stronger activator of PI3K than R-Ras, with either tD. PI3K inhibition nearly ablated transformation by R-Ras-tH, H-Ras and H-Ras-tR, whereas MEK inhibition had a modest effect on Ras-tH-driven transformation but no effect on H-Ras-tR transformation. R-Ras-tH supported tumor initiation, but not tumor progression. While H-Ras-tR-induced transformation was reduced relative to H-Ras, tumor progression was robust and similar to H-Ras. H-Ras tumor growth was moderately suppressed by MEK inhibition, which had no effect on H-Ras-tR tumor growth. In contrast, PI3K inhibition markedly suppressed tumor growth by H-Ras and H-Ras-tR, indicating that sustained PI3K signaling is a critical pathway for H-Ras-driven tumor progression, independent of microdomains.
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22
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Choudhry P. High-Throughput Method for Automated Colony and Cell Counting by Digital Image Analysis Based on Edge Detection. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148469. [PMID: 26848849 PMCID: PMC4746068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Counting cells and colonies is an integral part of high-throughput screens and quantitative cellular assays. Due to its subjective and time-intensive nature, manual counting has hindered the adoption of cellular assays such as tumor spheroid formation in high-throughput screens. The objective of this study was to develop an automated method for quick and reliable counting of cells and colonies from digital images. For this purpose, I developed an ImageJ macro Cell Colony Edge and a CellProfiler Pipeline Cell Colony Counting, and compared them to other open-source digital methods and manual counts. The ImageJ macro Cell Colony Edge is valuable in counting cells and colonies, and measuring their area, volume, morphology, and intensity. In this study, I demonstrate that Cell Colony Edge is superior to other open-source methods, in speed, accuracy and applicability to diverse cellular assays. It can fulfill the need to automate colony/cell counting in high-throughput screens, colony forming assays, and cellular assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Choudhry
- Department of Chemistry, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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KRAS Engages AGO2 to Enhance Cellular Transformation. Cell Rep 2016; 14:1448-1461. [PMID: 26854235 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in RAS provide a compelling yet intractable therapeutic target. Using co-immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry, we uncovered an interaction between RAS and Argonaute 2 (AGO2). Endogenously, RAS and AGO2 co-sediment and co-localize in the endoplasmic reticulum. The AGO2 N-terminal domain directly binds the Switch II region of KRAS, agnostic of nucleotide (GDP/GTP) binding. Functionally, AGO2 knockdown attenuates cell proliferation in mutant KRAS-dependent cells and AGO2 overexpression enhances KRAS(G12V)-mediated transformation. Using AGO2-/- cells, we demonstrate that the RAS-AGO2 interaction is required for maximal mutant KRAS expression and cellular transformation. Mechanistically, oncogenic KRAS attenuates AGO2-mediated gene silencing. Overall, the functional interaction with AGO2 extends KRAS function beyond its canonical role in signaling.
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Hernandez-Valladares M, Prior IA. Comparative proteomic analysis of compartmentalised Ras signalling. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17307. [PMID: 26620772 PMCID: PMC4664896 DOI: 10.1038/srep17307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ras proteins are membrane bound signalling hubs that operate from both the cell surface and endomembrane compartments. However, the extent to which intracellular pools of Ras can contribute to cell signalling is debated. To address this, we have performed a global screen of compartmentalised Ras signalling. We find that whilst ER/Golgi- and endosomal-Ras only generate weak outputs, Ras localised to the mitochondria or Golgi significantly and distinctly influence both the abundance and phosphorylation of a wide range of proteins analysed. Our data reveal that ~80% of phosphosites exhibiting large (≥1.5-fold) changes compared to control can be modulated by organellar Ras signalling. The majority of compartmentalised Ras-specific responses are predicted to influence gene expression, RNA splicing and cell proliferation. Our analysis reinforces the concept that compartmentalisation influences Ras signalling and provides detailed insight into the widespread modulation of responses downstream of endomembranous Ras signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hernandez-Valladares
- Physiological Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - Ian A Prior
- Physiological Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
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25
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Wild-Type N-Ras, Overexpressed in Basal-like Breast Cancer, Promotes Tumor Formation by Inducing IL-8 Secretion via JAK2 Activation. Cell Rep 2015; 12:511-24. [PMID: 26166574 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Basal-like breast cancers (BLBCs) are aggressive, and their drivers are unclear. We have found that wild-type N-RAS is overexpressed in BLBCs but not in other breast cancer subtypes. Repressing N-RAS inhibits transformation and tumor growth, whereas overexpression enhances these processes even in preinvasive BLBC cells. We identified N-Ras-responsive genes, most of which encode chemokines; e.g., IL8. Expression levels of these chemokines and N-RAS in tumors correlate with outcome. N-Ras, but not K-Ras, induces IL-8 by binding and activating the cytoplasmic pool of JAK2; IL-8 then acts on both the cancer cells and stromal fibroblasts. Thus, BLBC progression is promoted by increasing activities of wild-type N-Ras, which mediates autocrine/paracrine signaling that can influence both cancer and stroma cells.
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26
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Guzmán C, Bagga M, Kaur A, Westermarck J, Abankwa D. ColonyArea: an ImageJ plugin to automatically quantify colony formation in clonogenic assays. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92444. [PMID: 24647355 PMCID: PMC3960247 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 443] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The clonogenic or colony formation assay is a widely used method to study the number and size of cancer cell colonies that remain after irradiation or cytotoxic agent administration and serves as a measure for the anti-proliferative effect of these treatments. Alternatively, this assay is used to quantitate the transforming potential of cancer associated genes and chemical agents. Therefore, there is a need for a simplified and standardized analysis of colony formation assays for both routine laboratory use and for parallelized automated analysis. Here we describe the freely available ImageJ-plugin "ColonyArea", which is optimized for rapid and quantitative analysis of focus formation assays conducted in 6- to 24-well dishes. ColonyArea processes image data of multi-well dishes, by separating, concentrically cropping and background correcting well images individually, before colony formation is quantitated. Instead of counting the number of colonies, ColonyArea determines the percentage of area covered by crystal violet stained cell colonies, also taking the intensity of the staining and therefore cell density into account. We demonstrate that these parameters alone or in combination allow for robust quantification of IC50 values of the cytotoxic effect of two staurosporines, UCN-01 and staurosporine (STS) on human glioblastoma cells (T98G). The relation between the potencies of the two compounds compared very well with that obtained from an absorbance based method to quantify colony growth and to published data. The ColonyArea ImageJ plugin provides a simple and efficient analysis routine to quantitate assay data of one of the most commonly used cellular assays. The bundle is freely available for download as supporting information. We expect that ColonyArea will be of broad utility for cancer biologists, as well as clinical radiation scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Guzmán
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Manish Bagga
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Amanpreet Kaur
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Doctoral Program of Biomedical Sciences, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Jukka Westermarck
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Daniel Abankwa
- Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- * E-mail:
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27
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Young E, Zheng ZY, Wilkins AD, Jeong HT, Li M, Lichtarge O, Chang EC. Regulation of Ras localization and cell transformation by evolutionarily conserved palmitoyltransferases. Mol Cell Biol 2014; 34:374-85. [PMID: 24248599 PMCID: PMC3911504 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.01248-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Revised: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras can act on the plasma membrane (PM) to mediate extracellular signaling and tumorigenesis. To identify key components controlling Ras PM localization, we performed an unbiased screen to seek Schizosaccharomyces pombe mutants with reduced PM Ras. Five mutants were found with mutations affecting the same gene, S. pombe erf2 (sp-erf2), encoding sp-Erf2, a palmitoyltransferase, with various activities. sp-Erf2 localizes to the trans-Golgi compartment, a process which is mediated by its third transmembrane domain and the Erf4 cofactor. In fission yeast, the human ortholog zDHHC9 rescues the phenotypes of sp-erf2 null cells. In contrast, expressing zDHHC14, another sp-Erf2-like human protein, did not rescue Ras1 mislocalization in these cells. Importantly, ZDHHC9 is widely overexpressed in cancers. Overexpressing ZDHHC9 promotes, while repressing it diminishes, Ras PM localization and transformation of mammalian cells. These data strongly demonstrate that sp-Erf2/zDHHC9 palmitoylates Ras proteins in a highly selective manner in the trans-Golgi compartment to facilitate PM targeting via the trans-Golgi network, a role that is most certainly critical for Ras-driven tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelin Young
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ze-Yi Zheng
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Angela D. Wilkins
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- CIBR Center for Computational and Integrative Biomedical Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hee-Tae Jeong
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Min Li
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Olivier Lichtarge
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- CIBR Center for Computational and Integrative Biomedical Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eric C. Chang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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28
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Zhang F, Wang Z, Lu M, Yonekubo Y, Liang X, Zhang Y, Wu P, Zhou Y, Grinstein S, Hancock JF, Du G. Temporal production of the signaling lipid phosphatidic acid by phospholipase D2 determines the output of extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling in cancer cells. Mol Cell Biol 2014; 34:84-95. [PMID: 24164897 PMCID: PMC3911278 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00987-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade is an important signaling module in cells. One regulator of the Ras-ERK cascade is phosphatidic acid (PA) generated by phospholipase D (PLD) and diacylglycerol kinase (DGK). Using a newly developed PA biosensor, PASS (phosphatidic acid biosensor with superior sensitivity), we found that PA was generated sequentially by PLD and DGK in epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated HCC1806 breast cancer cells. Inhibition of PLD2, one of the two PLD members, was sufficient to eliminate most of the PA production, whereas inhibition of DGK decreased PA production only at the later stages of EGF stimulation, suggesting that PLD2 precedes DGK activation. The temporal production of PA by PLD2 is important for the nuclear activation of ERK. While inhibition of both PLD and DGK had no effect on the overall ERK activity, inhibition of PLD2 but not PLD1 or DGK blocked the nuclear ERK activity in several cancer cell lines. The decrease of active ERK in the nucleus inhibited the activation of Elk1, c-fos, and Fra1, the ERK nuclear targets, leading to decreased proliferation of HCC1806 cells. Together, these findings reveal that PA production by PLD2 determines the output of ERK in cancer cell growth factor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ziqing Wang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maryia Lu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yoshiya Yonekubo
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueqiang Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sergio Grinstein
- Division of Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - John F. Hancock
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Guangwei Du
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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A bimolecular fluorescent complementation screen reveals complex roles of endosomes in Ras-mediated signaling. Methods Enzymol 2014; 535:25-38. [PMID: 24377915 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-397925-4.00002-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
While Ras GTPases are best known for mediating growth factor signaling on the plasma membrane, these proteins also have surprisingly complex activities in the endosome. Assisted by a method called bimolecular fluorescent complementation (BiFC), which can detect weak and transient protein-protein interactions and reveal where the binding takes place in live cells, we have identified three effectors, Cdc42, CHMP6, and VPS4A that interact with Ras proteins in endosomes. These effectors are all necessary for Ras-induced transformation, suggesting that for Ras proteins to efficiently induce tumor formation, they must also activate effectors in cytoplasm, such as those in endosomes. Here, we describe how BiFC can be used to detect and screen for Ras effectors and for readily revealing where in the cell the binding occurs.
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30
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Li M, Li YQ, Zhao XF, Gao XD. Roles of the three Ras proteins in the regulation of dimorphic transition in the yeastYarrowia lipolytica. FEMS Yeast Res 2013; 14:451-63. [DOI: 10.1111/1567-1364.12129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Revised: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Department of Microbiology; College of Life Sciences; Wuhan University; Wuhan China
| | - Yun-Qing Li
- Department of Microbiology; College of Life Sciences; Wuhan University; Wuhan China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhao
- Department of Microbiology; College of Life Sciences; Wuhan University; Wuhan China
| | - Xiang-Dong Gao
- Department of Microbiology; College of Life Sciences; Wuhan University; Wuhan China
- Hubei Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation; Wuhan China
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31
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cIAP1 regulates TNF-mediated cdc42 activation and filopodia formation. Oncogene 2013; 33:5534-45. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Revised: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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32
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Ras palmitoylation is necessary for N-Ras activation and signal propagation in growth factor signalling. Biochem J 2013; 454:323-32. [PMID: 23758196 DOI: 10.1042/bj20121799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ras GTPases undergo post-translational modifications that govern their subcellular trafficking and localization. In particular, palmitoylation of the Golgi tags N-Ras and H-Ras for exocytotic transport and residency at the PM (plasma membrane). Following depalmitoylation, PM-Ras redistributes to all subcellular membranes causing an accumulation of palmitate-free Ras at endomembranes, including the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum. Palmitoylation is unanimously regarded as a critical modification at the crossroads of Ras activity and trafficking control, but its precise relevance to native wild-type Ras function in growth factor signalling is unknown. We show in the present study by use of palmitoylation-deficient N-Ras mutants and via the analysis of palmitate content of agonist-activated GTP-loaded N-Ras that only palmitoylated N-Ras becomes activated by agonists. In line with an essential role of palmitoylation in Ras activation, dominant-negative RasS17N loses its blocking potency if rendered devoid of palmitoylation. Live-cell Ras-GTP imaging shows that N-Ras activation proceeds only at the PM, consistent with activated N-Ras-GTP being palmitoylated. Finally, palmitoylation-deficient N-Ras does not sustain EGF (epidermal growth factor) or serum-elicited mitogenic signalling, confirming that palmitoylation is essential for signal transduction by N-Ras. These findings document that N-Ras activation proceeds at the PM and suggest that depalmitoylation, by removing Ras from the PM, may contribute to the shutdown of Ras signalling.
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33
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Ballou ER, Kozubowski L, Nichols CB, Alspaugh JA. Ras1 acts through duplicated Cdc42 and Rac proteins to regulate morphogenesis and pathogenesis in the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. PLoS Genet 2013; 9:e1003687. [PMID: 23950731 PMCID: PMC3738472 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1003687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Proliferation and morphogenesis in eukaryotic cells depend on the concerted activity of Rho-type GTPases, including Ras, Cdc42, and Rac. The sexually dimorphic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, which encodes paralogous, non-essential copies of all three, provides a unique model in which to examine the interactions of these conserved proteins. Previously, we demonstrated that RAS1 mediates C. neoformans virulence by acting as a central regulator of both thermotolerance and mating. We report here that ras1Δ mutants accumulate defects in polarized growth, cytokinesis, and cell cycle progression. We demonstrate that the ras1Δ defects in thermotolerance and mating can be largely explained by the compromised activity of four downstream Rho-GTPases: the Cdc42 paralogs, Cdc42 and Cdc420; and the Rac paralogs, Rac1 and Rac2. Further, we demonstrate that the separate GTPase classes play distinct Ras-dependent roles in C. neoformans morphogenesis and pathogenesis. Cdc42 paralogs primarily control septin localization and cytokinesis, while Rac paralogs play a primary role in polarized cell growth. Together, these duplicate, related signaling proteins provide a robust system to allow microbial proliferation in the presence of host-derived cell stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Ripley Ballou
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Lukasz Kozubowski
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Connie B. Nichols
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - J. Andrew Alspaugh
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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34
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Compartmentalized Ras signaling differentially contributes to phenotypic outputs. Cell Signal 2013; 25:1748-53. [PMID: 23707528 PMCID: PMC3776226 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ras isoforms are membrane bound proteins that differentially localize to the plasma membrane and subcellular compartments within the cell. Whilst the cell surface is the main site for Ras activity the extent to which intracellular pools contribute to Ras function is debated. We have generated Ras chimeras targeting Ras to the ER, Golgi, mitochondria and endosomes to compare the capacity of each of these locations to support activity equivalent to normal Ras function. We find that all locations are capable of regulating the MAP kinase and Akt pathways. Furthermore, whilst endomembranous Ras pools show location-specific competence to support proliferation and transformation, Golgi-Ras is as potent as N-Ras.
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35
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Gnad F, Young A, Zhou W, Lyle K, Ong CC, Stokes MP, Silva JC, Belvin M, Friedman LS, Koeppen H, Minden A, Hoeflich KP. Systems-wide analysis of K-Ras, Cdc42, and PAK4 signaling by quantitative phosphoproteomics. Mol Cell Proteomics 2013; 12:2070-80. [PMID: 23608596 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m112.027052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although K-Ras, Cdc42, and PAK4 signaling are commonly deregulated in cancer, only a few studies have sought to comprehensively examine the spectrum of phosphorylation-mediated signaling downstream of each of these key signaling nodes. In this study, we completed a label-free quantitative analysis of oncogenic K-Ras, activated Cdc42, and PAK4-mediated phosphorylation signaling, and report relative quantitation of 2152 phosphorylated peptides on 1062 proteins. We define the overlap in phosphopeptides regulated by K-Ras, Cdc42, and PAK4, and find that perturbation of these signaling components affects phosphoproteins associated with microtubule depolymerization, cytoskeletal organization, and the cell cycle. These findings provide a resource for future studies to characterize novel targets of oncogenic K-Ras signaling and validate biomarkers of PAK4 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Gnad
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080, USA.
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36
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Abstract
Small GTPases regulate a wide range of homeostatic processes such as cytoskeletal dynamics, organelle homeostasis, cell migration and vesicle trafficking, as well as in pathologic conditions such as carcinogenesis and metastatic spreading. Therefore, it is important to understand the regulation of small GTPase signaling, but this is complicated by the fact that crosstalk exists between different GTPase families and that we have to understand how they signal in time and space. The Golgi apparatus represents a hub for several signaling molecules and its importance in this field is constantly increasing. In this review we will discuss small GTPases signaling at the Golgi apparatus. Then, we will highlight recent work that contributed to a better understanding of crosstalk between different small GTPase families, with a special emphasis on their crosstalk at the Golgi apparatus. Finally, we will give a brief overview of available methods and tools to investigate spatio-temporal small GTPase crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Baschieri
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstrasse 10, D-78457 Konstanz, Germany
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Haeussler DJ, Pimentel DR, Hou X, Burgoyne JR, Cohen RA, Bachschmid MM. Endomembrane H-Ras controls vascular endothelial growth factor-induced nitric-oxide synthase-mediated endothelial cell migration. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:15380-9. [PMID: 23548900 PMCID: PMC3663556 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.427765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
We demonstrate for the first time that endomembrane-delimited H-Ras mediates VEGF-induced activation of endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS) and migratory response of human endothelial cells. Using thiol labeling strategies and immunofluorescent cell staining, we found that only 31% of total H-Ras is S-palmitoylated, tethering the small GTPase to the plasma membrane but leaving the function of the large majority of endomembrane-localized H-Ras unexplained. Knockdown of H-Ras blocked VEGF-induced PI3K-dependent Akt (Ser-473) and eNOS (Ser-1177) phosphorylation and nitric oxide-dependent cell migration, demonstrating the essential role of H-Ras. Activation of endogenous H-Ras led to recruitment and phosphorylation of eNOS at endomembranes. The loss of migratory response in cells lacking endogenous H-Ras was fully restored by modest overexpression of an endomembrane-delimited H-Ras palmitoylation mutant. These studies define a newly recognized role for endomembrane-localized H-Ras in mediating nitric oxide-dependent proangiogenic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar J Haeussler
- Vascular Biology Section, Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA
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38
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Balaji K, Mooser C, Janson CM, Bliss JM, Hojjat H, Colicelli J. RIN1 orchestrates the activation of RAB5 GTPases and ABL tyrosine kinases to determine the fate of EGFR. J Cell Sci 2012; 125:5887-96. [PMID: 22976291 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.113688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) initiates RAS signaling simultaneously with EGFR internalization. Endocytosed EGFR is then either recycled or degraded. EGFR fate is determined in part by the RAS effector RIN1, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for RAB5 GTPases. EGFR degradation was slowed by RIN1 silencing, enhanced by RIN1 overexpression and accelerated by RIN1 localization to the plasma membrane. RIN1 also directly activates ABL tyrosine kinases, which regulate actin remodeling, a function not previously connected to endocytosis. We report that RIN1-RAB5 signaling favors EGFR downregulation over EGFR recycling, whereas RIN1-ABL signaling stabilizes EGFR and inhibits macropinocytosis. RIN1(QM), a mutant that blocks ABL activation, caused EGF-stimulated membrane ruffling, actin remodeling, dextran uptake and EGFR degradation. An ABL kinase inhibitor phenocopied these effects in cells overexpressing RIN1. EGFR activation also promotes RIN1 interaction with BIN1, a membrane bending protein. These findings suggest that RIN1 orchestrates RAB5 activation, ABL kinase activation and BIN1 recruitment to determine EGFR fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Balaji
- Molecular Biology Institute, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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39
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Ras and Rap1 govern spatiotemporal dynamic of activated ERK in pituitary living cells. Cell Signal 2012; 24:2237-48. [PMID: 22940095 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Revised: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK is a conserved signalling pathway involved in the control of fundamental cellular processes. Despite extensive research, how this pathway can process a myriad of diverse extracellular inputs into substrate specificity to determine biological outcomes is not fully understood. It has been established that the ERK1/2 pathway is an integrative point in the control of the pituitary function exerted by various extracellular signals. In addition we previously established that the GTPases Ras and Rap1 play a key role in the regulation of ERK1/2-dependent prolactin transcription by EGF or the cAMP-dependent neuropeptide VIP. In this report, using the FRET-based biosensor of ERK activity (EKAR) in the pituitary GH4C1 cell line, we show that both EGF and VIP tightly control the spatiotemporal dynamic of activated ERK with different magnitude and duration. Importantly, we provide the first evidence of a differential control of cytoplasmic and nuclear pools of activated ERK by the GTPases Ras and Rap1. Ras is required for nuclear magnitude and duration of EGF-dependent ERK activation, whereas it is required for both VIP-activated cytoplasmic and nuclear ERK pools. Rap1 is exclusively involved in VIP-activated ERK nuclear pool. Moreover, consistent with the control of the nuclear pool of activated ERK by the GTPases, we observe the same differential role of Ras and Rap1 on ERK nuclear translocation triggered by EGF or VIP. Together these findings identify Ras and Rap1 as determinant partners in shaping nuclear and cytoplasmic ERK kinetics in response to EGF and VIP, which in turn should control pituitary secretion.
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Abstract
Ras proteins are best known to function on the plasma membrane to mediate growth factor signaling. Controlling the length of time that Ras proteins stay on the plasma membrane is an effective way to properly modulate the intensity and duration of growth factor signaling. It has been shown previously that H- and N-Ras proteins in the GTP-bound state can be ubiquitylated via a K-63 linkage, which leads to endosome internalization and results in a negative-feedback loop for efficient signal attenuation. In a more recent study, two new Ras effectors have been isolated, CHMP6 and VPS4A, which are components of the ESCRT-III complex, best known for mediating protein sorting in the endosomes. Surprisingly, these molecules are required for efficient Ras-induced transformation. They apparently do so by controlling recycling of components of the Ras pathway back to the plasma membrane, thus creating a positive-feedback loop to enhance growth factor signaling. These results suggest the fates of endosomal Ras proteins are complex and dynamic — they can be either stored and/or destroyed or recycled. Further work is needed to decipher how the fate of these endosomal Ras proteins is determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Yi Zheng
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Stengel KR, Zheng Y. Essential role of Cdc42 in Ras-induced transformation revealed by gene targeting. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37317. [PMID: 22719838 PMCID: PMC3377703 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The ras proto-oncogene is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancer. However, given the prevalence of activating mutations in Ras and its association with aggressive forms of cancer, attempts to therapeutically target aberrant Ras signaling have been largely disappointing. This lack of progress highlights the deficiency in our understanding of cellular pathways required for Ras-mediated tumorigenesis and suggests the importance of identifying new molecular pathways associated with Ras-driven malignancies. Cdc42 is a Ras-related small GTPase that is known to play roles in oncogenic processes such as cell growth, survival, invasion, and migration. A pan-dominant negative mutant overexpression approach to suppress Cdc42 and related pathways has previously shown a requirement for Cdc42 in Ras-induced anchorage-independent cell growth, however the lack of specificity of such approaches make it difficult to determine if effects are directly related to changes in Cdc42 activity or other Rho family members. Therefore, in order to directly and unambiguously address the role of Cdc42 in Ras-mediated transformation, tumor formation and maintenance, we have developed a model of conditional cdc42 gene in Ras-transformed cells. Loss of Cdc42 drastically alters the cell morphology and inhibits proliferation, cell cycle progression and tumorigenicity of Ras-transformed cells, while non-transformed cells or c-Myc transformed cells are largely unaffected. The loss of Cdc42 in Ras-transformed cells results in reduced Akt signaling, restoration of which could partially rescues the proliferation defects associated with Cdc42 loss. Moreover, disruption of Cdc42 function in established tumors inhibited continued tumor growth. These studies implicate Cdc42 in Ras-driven tumor growth and suggest that targeting Cdc42 is beneficial in Ras-mediated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy R. Stengel
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Research Foundation; Department of Cancer and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Yi Zheng
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Research Foundation; Department of Cancer and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Zheng ZY, Cheng CM, Fu XR, Chen LY, Xu L, Terrillon S, Wong ST, Bar-Sagi D, Songyang Z, Chang EC. CHMP6 and VPS4A mediate the recycling of Ras to the plasma membrane to promote growth factor signaling. Oncogene 2012; 31:4630-8. [PMID: 22231449 PMCID: PMC3326214 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
While Ras is well-known to function on the plasma membrane (PM) to mediate growth factor signaling, increasing evidence suggests that Ras has complex roles in the cytoplasm. To uncover these roles, we screened a cDNA library and isolated H-Ras-binding proteins that also influence Ras functions. Many isolated proteins regulate trafficking involving endosomes; CHMP6/VPS20 and VPS4A, which interact with ESCRT-III, were chosen for further study. We showed that the binding is direct and occurs in endosomes. Furthermore, the binding is most efficient when H-Ras has a functional effector-binding-loop and is GTP-bound and ubiquitylated. CHMP6 and VPS4A also bound N-Ras, but not K-Ras. Repressing CHMP6 and VPS4A blocked Ras-induced transformation, which correlated with inefficient Ras localization to the PM as measured by cell fractionation and photobleaching. Moreover, silencing CHMP6 and VPS4A also blocked EGFR recycling. These data suggest that Ras interacts with key ESCRT-III components to promote recycling of itself and EGFR back to the PM to create a positive feedback loop to enhance growth factor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z-Y Zheng
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Castellano E, Santos E. Functional specificity of ras isoforms: so similar but so different. Genes Cancer 2011; 2:216-31. [PMID: 21779495 DOI: 10.1177/1947601911408081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
H-ras, N-ras, and K-ras are canonical ras gene family members frequently activated by point mutation in human cancers and coding for 4 different, highly related protein isoforms (H-Ras, N-Ras, K-Ras4A, and K-Ras4B). Their expression is nearly ubiquitous and broadly conserved across eukaryotic species, although there are quantitative and qualitative differences of expression depending on the tissue and/or developmental stage under consideration. Extensive functional studies have determined during the last quarter century that these Ras gene products are critical components of signaling pathways that control eukaryotic cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. However, because of their homology and frequent coexpression in various cellular contexts, it remained unclear whether the different Ras proteins play specific or overlapping functional roles in physiological and pathological processes. Initially, their high degree of sequence homology and the observation that all Ras isoforms share common sets of downstream effectors and upstream activators suggested that they were mostly redundant functionally. In contrast, the notion of functional specificity for each of the different Ras isoforms is supported at present by an increasing body of experimental observations, including 1) the fact that different ras isoforms are preferentially mutated in specific types of tumors or developmental disorders; 2) the different transforming potential of transfected ras genes in different cell contexts; 3) the distinct sensitivities exhibited by the various Ras family members for modulation by different GAPs or GEFs; 4) the demonstration that different Ras isoforms follow distinct intracellular processing pathways and localize to different membrane microdomains or subcellular compartments; 5) the different phenotypes displayed by genetically modified animal strains for each of the 3 ras loci; and 6) the specific transcriptional networks controlled by each isoform in different cellular settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Castellano
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, London, UK
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Ras trafficking, localization and compartmentalized signalling. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2011; 23:145-53. [PMID: 21924373 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2011.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2011] [Accepted: 09/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ras proteins are proto-oncogenes that are frequently mutated in human cancers. Three closely related isoforms, HRAS, KRAS and NRAS, are expressed in all cells and have overlapping but distinctive functions. Recent work has revealed how differences between the Ras isoforms in their trafficking, localization and protein-membrane orientation enable signalling specificity to be determined. We review the various strategies used to characterize compartmentalized Ras localization and signalling. Localization is an important contextual modifier of signalling networks and insights from the Ras system are of widespread relevance for researchers interested in signalling initiated from membranes.
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Stengel K, Zheng Y. Cdc42 in oncogenic transformation, invasion, and tumorigenesis. Cell Signal 2011; 23:1415-23. [PMID: 21515363 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2011.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The Rho family of GTPases represents a class of Ras-related signaling molecules often deregulated in cancer. Rho GTPases switch from a GDP-bound, inactive state to a GTP-bound, active state in response to extracellular stimuli such as mitogens and extracellular matrix. In addition, Rho GTPase signaling can be altered in response to cell intrinsic factors such as changes in oncogenic or tumor suppressor signaling. In their active form, these proteins bind to a number of effector molecules, activating signaling cascades which regulate a variety of cellular processes including cytoskeletal reorganization, cell cycle progression, cell polarity and transcription. Here, we focus on one Rho family member, Cdc42, which is overexpressed in a number of human cancers. Consistent with a role in the promotion of tumorigenesis, activating mutations in Cdc42 and guanine nucleotide exchange factors are transforming, while inhibition of Cdc42 activity can impinge on cellular transformation following the activation of oncoproteins or loss of tumor suppressor function. Furthermore, Cdc42 activity has been implicated in the invasive phenotype which characterizes tumor metastasis, further suggesting that Cdc42 may be a useful target for therapeutic intervention. However, several recent studies in mice have unveiled a putative tumor suppressor function of Cdc42 in several tissue types which may involve cell polarity maintenance, suggesting that the role of Cdc42 in cancer development is complex and may be cell type specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Stengel
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children's Research Foundation, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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