Cellular responses to DNA damage: one signal, multiple choices

Motorized chain models of the ideal chromosome

An array of motor proteins consumes chemical energy in setting up the architectures of chromosomes. Here, we explore how the structure of ideal polymer chains is influenced by two classes of motors. The first class which we call "swimming motors" acts to propel the chromatin fiber through three-dimensional space. They represent a caricature of motors such as RNA polymerases. Previously, they have often been described by adding a persistent flow onto Brownian diffusion of the chain. The second class of motors, which we call "grappling motors" caricatures the loop extrusion processes in which segments of chromatin fibers some distance apart are brought together. We analyze these models using a self-consistent variational phonon approximation to a many-body Master equation incorporating motor activities. We show that whether the swimming motors lead to contraction or expansion depends on the susceptibility of the motors, that is, how their activity depends on the forces they must exert. Grappling motors in contrast to swimming motors lead to long-ranged correlations that resemble those first suggested for fractal globules and that are consistent with the effective interactions inferred by energy landscape analyses of Hi-C data on the interphase chromosome.

The fork remodeler helicase-like transcription factor in cancer development: all at once

The Helicase-like Transcription Factor (HLTF) is a member of the SNF2-family of fork remodelers, primarily studied for its capacity to provide DNA Damage Tolerance (DDT) and to induce replication fork reversal (RFR). HLTF is recruited at stalled forks where both its ATPase motor and HIP116 Rad5p N-terminal (HIRAN) domains are necessary for regulating its interaction with DNA. HIRAN bestows specificity to ssDNA 3'-end and imparts branch migration as well as DNA remodeling capabilities facilitating damage repair. Both expression regulation and mutation rate affect HLTF activity. Gene hypermethylation induces loss of HLTF function, in particular in colorectal cancer (CRC), implying a tumour suppressor role. Surprisingly, a correlation between hypermethylation and HLTF mRNA upregulation has also been observed, even within the same cancer type. In many cancers, both complex mutation patterns and the presence of gene Copy Number Variations (CNVs) have been reported. These conditions affect the amount of functional HLTF and question the physiological role of this fork remodeler. This review offers a systematic collection of the presently strewed information regarding HLTF, its structural and functional characteristics, the multiple roles in DDT and the regulation in cancer progression highlighting new research perspectives.

Effects of native and particulate polyphenols on DNA damage and cell viability after UV-C exposure

Plant polyphenols have poor water solubility, resulting in low bioavailability. In order to overcome this limitation, the drug molecules can be coated with multiple layers of polymeric materials. Microcrystals of quercetin and resveratrol coated with a (PAH/PSS)4 or (CH/DexS)4 shell were prepared using the layer-by-layer assembly method; cultured human HaCaT keratinocytes were treated with UV-C, and after that, cells were incubated with native and particulate polyphenols. DNA damage, cell viability, and integrity were evaluated by comet assay, using PrestoBlueTM reagent and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage test. The data obtained indicate that both native and particulate polyphenols added immediately after UV-C exposure increased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner; however, the efficiency of particulate quercetin was more pronounced than that of the native compound; also quercetin coated with a (CH/DexS)4 shell more effectively than the native compound reduced the number of DNA lesions in the nuclei of keratinocytes exposed to UV-C radiation; native and particulate resveratrol were ineffective against DNA damage. Quercetin reduces cell death caused by UV-C radiation and increases DNA repair capacity. Coating quercetin with (CH/DexS)4 shell markedly enhanced its impact on DNA repair.

Fatty acid oxidation facilitates DNA double-strand break repair by promoting PARP1 acetylation

DNA repair is a tightly coordinated stress response to DNA damage, which is critical for preserving genome integrity. Accruing evidence suggests that metabolic pathways have been correlated with cellular response to DNA damage. Here, we show that fatty acid oxidation (FAO) is a crucial regulator of DNA double-strand break repair, particularly homologous recombination repair. Mechanistically, FAO contributes to DNA repair by activating poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), an enzyme that detects DNA breaks and promotes DNA repair pathway. Upon DNA damage, FAO facilitates PARP1 acetylation by providing acetyl-CoA, which is required for proper PARP1 activity. Indeed, cells reconstituted with PARP1 acetylation mutants display impaired DNA repair and enhanced sensitivity to DNA damage. Consequently, FAO inhibition reduces PARP1 activity, leading to increased genomic instability and decreased cell viability upon DNA damage. Finally, our data indicate that FAO serves as an important participant of cellular response to DNA damage, supporting DNA repair and genome stability.

APE1 recruits ATRIP to ssDNA in an RPA-dependent and -independent manner to promote the ATR DNA damage response

Cells have evolved the DNA damage response (DDR) pathways in response to DNA replication stress or DNA damage. In the ATR-Chk1 DDR pathway, it has been proposed that ATR is recruited to RPA-coated single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) by direct ATRIP-RPA interaction. However, it remains elusive how ATRIP is recruited to ssDNA in an RPA-independent manner. Here, we provide evidence that APE1 directly associates ssDNA to recruit ATRIP onto ssDNA in an RPA-independent fashion. The N-terminal motif within APE1 is required and sufficient for the APE1-ATRIP interaction in vitro and the distinct APE1-ATRIP interaction is required for ATRIP recruitment to ssDNA and the ATR-Chk1 DDR pathway activation in Xenopus egg extracts. In addition, APE1 directly associates with RPA70 and RPA32 via two distinct motifs. Taken together, our evidence suggests that APE1 recruits ATRIP onto ssDNA in an RPA-dependent and -independent manner in the ATR DDR pathway.

ZNF212 promotes genomic integrity through direct interaction with TRAIP

TRAIP is a key factor involved in the DNA damage response (DDR), homologous recombination (HR) and DNA interstrand crosslink (ICL) repair. However, the exact functions of TRAIP in these processes in mammalian cells are not fully understood. Here we identify the zinc finger protein 212, ZNF212, as a novel binding partner for TRAIP and find that ZNF212 colocalizes with sites of DNA damage. The recruitment of TRAIP or ZNF212 to sites of DNA damage is mutually interdependent. We show that depletion of ZNF212 causes defects in the DDR and HR-mediated repair in a manner epistatic to TRAIP. In addition, an epistatic analysis of Zfp212, the mouse homolog of human ZNF212, in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), shows that it appears to act upstream of both the Neil3 and Fanconi anemia (FA) pathways of ICLs repair. We find that human ZNF212 interacted directly with NEIL3 and promotes its recruitment to ICL lesions. Collectively, our findings identify ZNF212 as a new factor involved in the DDR, HR-mediated repair and ICL repair though direct interaction with TRAIP.

Individual radiosensitivity reflected by γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci predicts outcome in PSMA-targeted radioligand therapy

PURPOSE

γ-H2AX and 53BP1 are fundamental for cellular DNA damage response (DDR) after radiation exposure and are linked to cell repair, arrest, or apoptosis. We aimed to evaluate whether DDR-markers in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) may have predictive potential for outcome in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients receiving [177Lu]Lu-prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) radioligand therapy (RLT).

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 20 men with advanced mCRPC scheduled for PSMA-targeted RLT. Prior to the first cycle of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA RLT, all patients underwent [18F]F-PSMA-1007 positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) for assessment of tumor PSMA expression (assessing maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of all tumor lesions). Blood samples were collected prior to, + 1 h after, and + 24 h after administration of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA, and DDR-markers γ-H2AX and 53BP1 were determined in PBLs through immunocytofluorescence. We then tested the predictive performance of DDR-markers relative to clinical and PET-based parameters for progressive disease (PSA-PD) after 2 cycles. In addition, the predictive value for progression-free survival (PSA-PFS, provided as median and 95% confidence interval [CI]) was explored.

RESULTS

Low baseline 53BP1 and γ-H2AX foci (P = 0.17) tended to predict early PSA-PD, whereas low SUVmax was significantly associated with higher risk for PSA-PD (P = 0.04). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, there was a trend towards prolonged PSA-PFS in patients with higher baseline 53BP1 of 6 months (mo; 95%CI, 4-9 mo) compared to 3 mo in patients with low 53BP1 (95% CI, 2-3 mo; P = 0.12). Comparable results were recorded for higher γ-H2AX expression (6 mo [95% CI, 3-9 mo] relative to 3 mo [95% CI, 2-4 mo] in patients with low γ-H2AX; P = 0.12). SUVmax, however, did not demonstrate predictive value (P = 0.29). Consistently, in univariate Cox-regression analysis, baseline 53BP1 foci demonstrated borderline significance for predicting PSA-PFS under [177Lu]Lu-PSMA RLT (P = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this prospective study investigating mCRPC patients undergoing [177Lu]Lu-PSMA RLT, low baseline DDR-markers in PBLs tended to predict poor outcome. Although the study group was small and results need further confirmation, these preliminary findings lay the foundation for exploring additive radiosensitizing or treatment intensification in future studies with high-risk individuals scheduled for RLT.

A diRNA-protein scaffold module mediates SMC5/6 recruitment in plant DNA repair

In eukaryotes, the STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE OF CHROMOSOME 5/6 (SMC5/6) complex is critical to maintaining chromosomal structures around double-strand breaks (DSBs) in DNA damage repair. However, the recruitment mechanism of this conserved complex at DSBs remains unclear. In this study, using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model, we found that SMC5/6 localization at DSBs is dependent on the protein scaffold containing INVOLVED IN DE NOVO 2 (IDN2), CELL DIVISION CYCLE 5 (CDC5), and ALTERATION/DEFICIENCY IN ACTIVATION 2B (ADA2b), whose recruitment is further mediated by DNA-damage-induced RNAs (diRNAs) generated from DNA regions around DSBs. The physical interactions of protein components including SMC5-ADA2b, ADA2b-CDC5, and CDC5-IDN2 result in formation of the protein scaffold. Further analysis indicated that the DSB localization of IDN2 requires its RNA-binding activity and ARGONAUTE 2 (AGO2), indicating a role for the AGO2-diRNA complex in this process. Given that most of the components in the scaffold are conserved, the mechanism presented here, which connects SMC5/6 recruitment and small RNAs, will improve our understanding of DNA repair mechanisms in eukaryotes.

Cryo-EM structures reveal that RFC recognizes both the 3'- and 5'-DNA ends to load PCNA onto gaps for DNA repair

RFC uses ATP to assemble PCNA onto primed sites for replicative DNA polymerases d and e. The RFC pentamer forms a central chamber that binds 3' ss/ds DNA junctions to load PCNA onto DNA during replication. We show here five structures that identify a 2^nd DNA binding site in RFC that binds a 5' duplex. This 5' DNA site is located between the N-terminal BRCT domain and AAA+ module of the large Rfc1 subunit. Our structures reveal ideal binding to a 7-nt gap, which includes 2 bp unwound by the clamp loader. Biochemical studies show enhanced binding to 5 and 10 nt gaps, consistent with the structural results. Because both 3' and 5' ends are present at a ssDNA gap, we propose that the 5' site facilitates RFC's PCNA loading activity at a DNA damage-induced gap to recruit gap-filling polymerases. These findings are consistent with genetic studies showing that base excision repair of gaps greater than 1 base requires PCNA and involves the 5' DNA binding domain of Rfc1. We further observe that a 5' end facilitates PCNA loading at an RPA coated 30-nt gap, suggesting a potential role of the RFC 5'-DNA site in lagging strand DNA synthesis.

Environmentally relevant concentrations of benzophenones triggered DNA damage and apoptosis in male Chinese rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus)

Benzophenone-type ultraviolet (UV) filters (BPs) are commonly used as sunscreen agents, fragrance enhancers and plastic additives, and are great threats to aquatic organisms due to their high detected concentrations in the aquatic environment. However, few studies on their toxicity and mechanism in fish have been clearly reported. In this study, Chinese rare minnows (Gobiocypris rarus) were exposed to benzophenone (BP), 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone (BP-1), and 5-benzoyl-4-hydroxy-2-methoxybenzenesulfonic acid (BP-4) at 5, 50, 500 µg/L for 28 d to assess their toxicity. Transcriptomics screening showed that cell cycle, DNA replication and repair were significantly altered pathways (p < 0.05). The altered transcripts were similar to those identified by RNA-seq. DNA damage and 8-OHdG levels were significantly increased at 50 and 500 μg/L groups (p < 0.05). The DNA methylcytosine level was not significantly changed exposure to BP, BP-1 and BP-4. TUNEL assays indicated that hepatic apoptosis was significantly improved at 500 μg/L BP and BP-4 and 50 and 500 μg/L BP-1 (p < 0.05), with the significantly increasing the activity of caspase-3, -8 and -9 (p < 0.05). Molecular docking analysis revealed that BP, BP-1 and BP-4 could bind differently to caspase-3 through different binding interactions. Therefore, BP-1 induced more serious oxidative DNA damage and apoptosis by activating caspase-3 than BP and BP-4, which will provide theoretical basis and data support for ecological evaluation of aquatic organisms induced by BPs.

DNA is loaded through the 9-1-1 DNA checkpoint clamp in the opposite direction of the PCNA clamp

The 9-1-1 DNA checkpoint clamp is loaded onto 5'-recessed DNA to activate the DNA damage checkpoint that arrests the cell cycle. The 9-1-1 clamp is a heterotrimeric ring that is loaded in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by Rad24-RFC (hRAD17-RFC), an alternate clamp loader in which Rad24 replaces Rfc1 in the RFC1-5 clamp loader of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The 9-1-1 clamp loading mechanism has been a mystery, because, unlike RFC, which loads PCNA onto a 3'-recessed junction, Rad24-RFC loads the 9-1-1 ring onto a 5'-recessed DNA junction. Here we report two cryo-EM structures of Rad24-RFC-DNA with a closed or 27-Å open 9-1-1 clamp. The structures reveal a completely unexpected mechanism by which a clamp can be loaded onto DNA. Unlike RFC, which encircles DNA, Rad24 binds 5'-DNA on its surface, not inside the loader, and threads the 3' ssDNA overhang into the 9-1-1 clamp from above the ring.

In vitro assembly complex formation of TRAIP CC and RAP 80 zinc finger motif revealed by our study

Background

Tumor necrosis factor interacting protein (TRAIP/TRIP) is an important cell-signaling molecule that prevents the TNF-induced-nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activation via direct interaction with TRAF 2 protein. TRAIP is a crucial downstream signaling molecule, implicated in several signaling pathways. Due to these multifunctional effects, TRAIP is more related to cellular mitosis, chromosome segregation, and DNA damage response. Tumor necrosis factor interacting protein is a downstream signaling molecule that contains a RING domain with E3 ubiquitin ligase activity at the N terminal side followed by coiled-coil and C terminal leucine zipper domain. Human TRAIP is constituted of 469 amino acids with 76% sequence similarity with the mouse TRAIP protein. Although, the main inhibitory function of TRAIP has been known for decades, however, in vitro interaction of TRAIPCC domain with RAP80 Zinc finger motif has not been reported yet. Besides, RAP80, the binding partner of TRAIPCC protein has been implicated in DNA damage response.

Results

Our in vitro study shows that the TRAIP CC (64-166) associates with the RAP80 zinc finger of corresponding amino acid 490-584. However, TRAIP CCLZ (66-260) and TRAIP RINGCC (1 = 157) failed to interact with the RAP80 zinc finger of corresponding amino acid 490-584. The current study reinforces TRAIP CC (64-166) and RAP80 zinc finger of corresponding amino acid 490-584 associates to form a complex. Moreover, SDS PAGE arbitrated the homogeneity of RAP80 Zinc finger and TRAIP CC of corresponding amino acid 490-584 and 64-166, respectively.

Conclusion

In vitro, a specific interaction was observed between the TRAIP CC (64-166) and the RAP80 zinc finger of the corresponding amino acid 490-584 and a specific binding area of the RAP80 zinc finger motif were investigated. The TRAIPCC region is required for the complex to bind to the RAP80-Zn finger motif. This strategy may be necessary for the RAP80 zinc finger activity to the TRAIP CC protein.

DNA Damage Responses during the Cell Cycle: Insights from Model Organisms and Beyond

Genome damage is a threat to all organisms. To respond to such damage, DNA damage responses (DDRs) lead to cell cycle arrest, DNA repair, and cell death. Many DDR components are highly conserved, whereas others have adapted to specific organismal needs. Immense progress in this field has been driven by model genetic organism research. This review has two main purposes. First, we provide a survey of model organism-based efforts to study DDRs. Second, we highlight how model organism study has contributed to understanding how specific DDRs are influenced by cell cycle stage. We also look forward, with a discussion of how future study can be expanded beyond typical model genetic organisms to further illuminate how the genome is protected.

Persistent DNA Double-Strand Breaks After Repeated Diagnostic CT Scans in Breast Epithelial Cells and Lymphocytes

DNA double-strand break (DSB) induction and repair have been widely studied in radiation therapy (RT); however little is known about the impact of very low exposures from repeated computed tomography (CT) scans for the efficiency of repair. In our current study, DSB repair and kinetics were investigated in side-by-side comparison of RT treatment (2 Gy) with repeated diagnostic CT scans (≤20 mGy) in human breast epithelial cell lines and lymphoblastoid cells harboring different mutations in known DNA damage repair proteins. Immunocytochemical analysis of well known DSB markers γH2AX and 53BP1, within 48 h after each treatment, revealed highly correlated numbers of foci and similar appearance/disappearance profiles. The levels of γH2AX and 53BP1 foci after CT scans were up to 30% of those occurring 0.5 h after 2 Gy irradiation. The DNA damage repair after diagnostic CT scans was monitored and quantitatively assessed by both γH2AX and 53BP1 foci in different cell types. Subsequent diagnostic CT scans in 6 and/or 12 weeks intervals resulted in elevated background levels of repair foci, more pronounced in cells that were prone to genomic instability due to mutations in known regulators of DNA damage response (DDR). The levels of persistent foci remained enhanced for up to 6 months. This “memory effect” may reflect a radiation-induced long-term response of cells after low-dose x-ray exposure.

Assessment of γ-H2AX and 53BP1 Foci in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes to Predict Subclinical Hematotoxicity and Response in Somatostatin Receptor-Targeted Radionuclide Therapy for Advanced Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

BACKGROUND

We aimed to characterize γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci formation in patients receiving somatostatin receptor-targeted radioligand therapy, and explored its role for predicting treatment-related hematotoxicity, and treatment response.

METHODS

A prospective analysis of double-strand break (DSB) markers was performed in 21 patients with advanced gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci formation were evaluated in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) at baseline, +1 h and +24 h after administration of 7.4 GBq (¹⁷⁷Lu)Lu-DOTA-TATE. Hematotoxicity was evaluated using standard hematology. Therapy response was assessed using (⁶⁸Ga)Ga-DOTA-TATE PET/CT before enrollment and after 2 cycles of PRRT according to the volumetric modification of RECIST 1.1.

RESULTS

DSB marker kinetics were heterogeneous among patients. Subclinical hematotoxicity was associated with γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci formation (e.g., change in platelet count vs change in γ-H2AX⁺ cells between baseline and +1 h (r = -0.6080; p = 0.0045). Patients showing early development of new metastases had less γ-H2AX (p = 0.0125) and less 53BP1 foci per cell at +1 h (p = 0.0289), and demonstrated a distinct kinetic pattern with an absence of DSB marker decrease at +24 h (γ-H2AX: p = 0.0025; 53BP1: p = 0.0008).

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of γ-H2AX and 53BP1 foci formation in PBLs of patients receiving radioligand therapy may hold promise for predicting subclinical hematotoxicity and early treatment response.

An unexpected butadiene diolepoxide-mediated genotoxicity implies alternative mechanism for 1,3-butadiene carcinogenicity

1,3-Butadiene (BD) is abundant in combustion products such as cigarette smoke. While BD has been classified as a known human carcinogen, a long-standing question is the identity of the ultimate carcinogenic metabolite in humans. We hypothesize that 3,4-epoxybutane-1,2-diol (EBD) may play a critical role in human carcinogenesis due to its high bioavailability. We utilized a differential toxicity assay for BD metabolites and newly synthesized EBD analogs in a series of isogenic chicken cells lacking specific DNA repair proteins to address the mode of action of BD genotoxicity and infer a mode of action. Surprisingly, as with the diepoxide 1,2:3,4-diepoxybutane (DEB), the monoepoxide EBD showed remarkable toxicity to cells deficient in Fanconi anemia (FANC) genes. This observation suggests that EBD may be transformed into a bifunctional metabolite and forms interstrand cross-links. EBD and its analog with a hydroxy substituent at C1 were found to be highly toxic to FANCD2-deficient chicken and human cells. The Results suggest that EBD may be transformed to a bifunctional epoxy aldehyde, perhaps by alcohol dehydrogenase, to which the observed FANC sensitivity could be attributed. The implications of this study are very important in considering mechanisms by which EBD may cause leukemia and lymphoma in humans exposed to BD.

DNA Integrity Estimated via the Comet Assay Reflects Oxidative Stress and Competitive Disadvantage in Developing Birds

AbstractIncreases in DNA degradation have been detected in numerous situations in which organisms are exposed to pollutants. However, outside of the ecotoxicological literature, few studies have investigated whether there exists important variation in DNA integrity in free-living, healthy animals. Using the alkaline version of the comet assay to estimate DNA integrity in blood samples, we aimed to evaluate whether DNA integrity during early life is associated with nestlings' age, body mass, within-brood status, and oxidative stress using nestlings from a wild population of spotless starlings (Sturnus unicolor) as a model. We found important levels of variation in DNA integrity, suggesting the possibility that DNA integrity may have implications for offspring fitness. DNA integrity was dependent on the developmental stage, being lower at hatching than at the end of the nestling period. DNA integrity was also negatively related to the levels of oxidative damage at hatching and positively associated with wing length at fledging. In addition, position within the size hierarchy of the brood at fledging explained differences in DNA integrity, with higher levels in core than in marginal nestlings. Finally, despite extensive within-individual variation along nestling's age, we found DNA integrity during early life to be moderately repeatable within broods. Hence, DNA integrity in early life appears to be mainly affected by environmental factors, such as natural stressors. Our results suggest that measuring the variation in DNA integrity may be a fruitful approach for the assessment of individual fitness in natural populations and can be applied to studies in developmental biology and ecology.

Small molecule CDS-3078 induces G2/M phase arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in HeLa cells

The tumor suppressor p53 serves important roles in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and its activation increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. In the present study, the small molecule 2-[1-(4-(benzyloxy)phenyl)-3-oxoisoindolin-2-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)] acetic acid (CDS-3078) significantly increased p53 mRNA expression levels in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with CDS-3078 increased p53 expression levels and p53-mediated activation of its downstream target genes in HeLa cells. Additionally, p53^+/+ HeLa cells treated with CDS-3078 presented with dysfunctional mitochondria, as indicated by the decrease in Bcl-2 levels, the increase in Bcl-2 homologous antagonist killer and the increase in cytochrome c release from the mitochondria to the cytoplasm. The present results suggested that CDS-3078 treatment significantly induced G₂/M phase cell cycle arrest. Therefore, CDS-3078 administration induced apoptosis via p53-mediated cell cycle arrest, causing mitochondrial dysfunction and resulting in apoptotic cell death in cervical cancer cells. Collectively, the present results suggested that CDS-3078 may be a potential anticancer agent.

Inducible aging in Hydra oligactis implicates sexual reproduction, loss of stem cells, and genome maintenance as major pathways

Freshwater polyps of the genus Hydra do not age. However, temperature stress induces aging and a shift from reproduction by asexual budding to sexual gamete production in a cold-sensitive (CS) strain of H. oligactis. We sequenced the transcriptome of a male CS strain before and after this life history shift and compared changes in gene expression relative to those seen in a cold-resistant (CR) strain that does not undergo a life history shift in response to altered temperature. We found that the switch from non-aging asexual reproduction to aging and sexual reproduction involves upregulation of genes not only involved in gametogenesis but also genes involved in cellular senescence, apoptosis, and DNA repair accompanied by a downregulation of genes involved in stem cell maintenance. These results suggest that aging is a byproduct of sexual reproduction-associated cellular reprogramming and underscore the power of these H. oligactis strains to identify intrinsic mechanisms of aging.

A guiding torch at the poles: the multiple roles of spindle microtubule-organizing centers during cell division

The spindle constitutes the cellular machinery that enables the segregation of the chromosomes during eukaryotic cell division. The microtubules that form this fascinating and complex genome distribution system emanate from specialized structures located at both its poles and known as microtubule-organizing centers (MTOCs). Beyond their structural function, the spindle MTOCs play fundamental roles in cell cycle control, the activation and functionality of the mitotic checkpoints and during cellular aging. This review highlights the pivotal importance of spindle-associated MTOCs in multiple cellular processes and their central role as key regulatory hubs where diverse intracellular signals are integrated and coordinated to ensure the successful completion of cell division and the maintenance of the replicative lifespan.

Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) induce genotoxicity in vivo: A survey on apoptosis, DNA methylation, DNA oxidative damage, liver metabolites, and transcriptomics

BACKGROUND

As potential substitutes for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have been frequently detected in the environment. However, the genotoxicity induced by these OPFRs has rarely been described, and the results reported in previous studies are conflicting and inconsistent.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to determine how OPFRs induced genetic toxicity in vivo.

METHODS

Using Chinese rare minnow as a model, the toxicity of three OPFRs was screened with RNA-seq. To verify the OPFR-induced genotoxicity, alkaline comet assay, cell apoptosis analysis, HPLC-based DNA methylation assay, 8-OHdG assay, bioconcentration and biotransformation investigation were performed.

RESULTS

According to transcriptomic data, TDCIPP exposure substantially altered the pathways related to DNA damage, including the cell cycle, DNA replication, Fanconi anemia pathway, p53 signaling pathway, and various DNA repair pathways. Although TBOEP and TPHP did not affect DNA damage, TDCIPP induced DNA damage in a dose-dependent manner. TDCIPP also induced apoptosis, altered the activities of caspase-3 and -9, and increased the 8-OHdG levels, while a significant difference in the levels of DNA methylation induced by OPFRs was not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results, TDCIPP induced DNA oxidative damage, eventually leading to genotoxicity in vivo.

SOG1 activator and MYB3R repressors regulate a complex DNA damage network in Arabidopsis

To combat DNA damage, organisms mount a DNA damage response (DDR) that results in cell cycle regulation, DNA repair and, in severe cases, cell death. Underscoring the importance of gene regulation in this response, studies in Arabidopsis have demonstrated that all of the aforementioned processes rely on SUPPRESSOR OF GAMMA RESPONSE 1 (SOG1), a NAC family transcription factor (TF) that has been functionally equated to the mammalian tumor suppressor, p53. However, the expression networks connecting SOG1 to these processes remain largely unknown and, although the DDR spans from minutes to hours, most transcriptomic data correspond to single time-point snapshots. Here, we generated transcriptional models of the DDR from GAMMA (γ)-irradiated wild-type and sog1 seedlings during a 24-hour time course using DREM, the Dynamic Regulatory Events Miner, revealing 11 coexpressed gene groups with distinct biological functions and cis-regulatory features. Within these networks, additional chromatin immunoprecipitation and transcriptomic experiments revealed that SOG1 is the major activator, directly targeting the most strongly up-regulated genes, including TFs, repair factors, and early cell cycle regulators, while three MYB3R TFs are the major repressors, specifically targeting the most strongly down-regulated genes, which mainly correspond to G2/M cell cycle-regulated genes. Together these models reveal the temporal dynamics of the transcriptional events triggered by γ-irradiation and connects these events to TFs and biological processes over a time scale commensurate with key processes coordinated in response to DNA damage, greatly expanding our understanding of the DDR.

Resveratrol analog, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3,5-dimethoxybenzamide induces G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HeLa human cervical cancer cells

In this study, several resveratrol analogs were synthesized and evaluated in search of a more effective anti-proliferative resveratrol analog. Among the evaluated resveratrol analogs, we have identified N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3,5-dimethoxybenamide (MPDB) as a potent anti-proliferative compound. Treatment with MPDB resulted in G₂/M phase cell cycle arrest, which was accompanied by alteration of G₂/M-related protein expression and phosphorylation. MPDB-induced G₂/M arrest was blocked by transfection of ATM/ATR siRNAs, indicating the critical role of ATM/ATR in G₂/M phase arrest. In addition, treatment with MPDB displayed the activation of caspase and decreased Bcl-xl protein expression after 20 h in HeLa cells. Moreover, MPDB increased cytosolic cytochrome c release and Fas and Fas-L protein expression, indicating intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathway, respectively. These results suggest that MPDB is a new and potent compound that induces ATM/ATR-dependent G₂/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, implicating it as a putative candidate in the investment of cervical cancer therapy.

Nucleus-enriched Ruthenium Polypyridine Complex Acts as a Potent Inhibitor to Suppress Triple-negative Breast Cancer Metastasis In vivo

Polypyridine Ru(II) complexes have long been deemed to excellent antitumor agents that inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Nevertheless, their effects on the metastatic potency of breast cancer cells need further research. Herein, a class of polypyridine Ru(II) complexes coordinated with phenazine derivates (DPPZ) ([Ru(bpy)₂(DPPZ-R)](ClO₄)₂, Ru(bpy)₂DPPZ: R = -H, Ru(bpy)₂BrDPPZ: R = -Br, Ru(bpy)₂MDPPZ: R = -CH₃, Ru(bpy)2BnDPPZ: R = −acene, Ru(bpy)₂BEDPPZ: R = -C ≡ C(C₆H₅)) was synthesized by introducing different substituent groups to regulate the electron cloud density and planarity of the main ligands. Results indicated that this class of DPPZ-based Ru(II) complexes exhibited promising inhibitory effect against MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells, especially for Ru(bpy)₂BEDPPZ, which is comparable with that of cisplatin. In addition, Ru(bpy)₂BEDPPZ effectively inhibited the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro and suppressed focal adhesion and stress fiber formation. Moreover, it effectively blocked MDA-MB-231 cell metastasis in blood vessels and restrained angiogenesis formation in a zebrafish xenograft breast cancer model. Further studies showed that the mechanisms may involve DNA damage-mediated apoptosis probably due to Ru(bpy)₂BEDPPZ, which was enriched in the cell nucleus and induced DNA damage. All these results suggested that the DPPZ-based Ru(II) complexes can act as potent anti-metastasis agents.

New insights into the roles and regulation of SphK2 as a therapeutic target in cancer chemoresistance

Chemoresistance is a complicated process developed by most cancers and accounts for the majority of relapse and metastasis in cancer. The main mechanisms of chemoresistance phenotype include increased expression and/or activated drug efflux pumps, altered DNA repair, altered metabolism of therapeutics as well as impaired apoptotic signaling pathways. Aberrant sphingolipid signaling has also recently received considerable attention in chemoresistance. Sphingolipid metabolites regulate main biological processes such as apoptosis, cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Two sphingosine kinases, SphK1 and SphK2, convert sphingosine to sphingosine-1-phosphate, an antiapoptotic bioactive lipid mediator. Numerous evidence has revealed the involvement of activated SphK1 in tumorigenesis and resistance, however, contradictory results have been found for the role of SphK2 in these functions. In some studies, overexpression of SphK2 suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis. In contrast, some others have shown cell proliferation and tumor promotion effect for SphK2. Our understanding of the role of SphK2 in cancer does not have a sufficient integrity. The main focus of this review will be on the re-evaluation of the role of SphK2 in cell death and chemoresistance in light of our new understanding of molecular targeted therapy. We will also highlight the connections between SphK2 and the DNA damage response. Finally, we will provide our insight into the regulatory mechanisms of SphKs by two main categories, micro and long, noncoding RNAs as the novel players of cancer chemoresistance.

Increasing sensitivity to DNA damage is a potential driver for human ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, accounting for more deaths than any other gynecological diseases. However, the survival rate for ovarian cancer has not essentially improved over the past thirty years. Thus, to understand the molecular mechanism of ovarian tumorigenesis is important for optimizing the early diagnosis and treating this disease. In this study, we observed obvious DNA lesions, especially DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) accompanying cell cycle checkpoint activation, in the human epithelial ovarian cancer samples, which could be due to the impaired DNA response machinery. Following this line, we found that these DNA damage response-deficient primary cancer cells were hypersensitive to DNA damage and lost their ability to repair the DNA breaks, leading to genomic instability. Of note, three key DNA damage response factors, RNF8, Ku70, and FEN1 exhibited dramatically decreased expression level, implying the dysfunctional DNA repair pathways. Re-expression of wild type RNF8, Ku70, or FEN1 in these cells restored the DNA lesions and also partially rescued the cells from death. Our current study therefore proposes that accumulated DNA lesions might be a potential driver of ovarian cancer and the impaired DNA damage responders could be the targets for clinical treatment.

Cellular Responses in Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Treated with Three Endodontic Materials

Human dental pulp stem cells (HDPSCs) are of special relevance in future regenerative dental therapies. Characterizing cytotoxicity and genotoxicity produced by endodontic materials is required to evaluate the potential for regeneration of injured tissues in future strategies combining regenerative and root canal therapies. This study explores the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity mediated by oxidative stress of three endodontic materials that are widely used on HDPSCs: a mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA-Angelus white), an epoxy resin sealant (AH-Plus cement), and an MTA-based cement sealer (MTA-Fillapex). Cell viability and cell death rate were assessed by flow cytometry. Oxidative stress was measured by OxyBlot. Levels of antioxidant enzymes were evaluated by Western blot. Genotoxicity was studied by quantifying the expression levels of DNA damage sensors such as ATM and RAD53 genes and DNA damage repair sensors such as RAD51 and PARP-1. Results indicate that AH-Plus increased apoptosis, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity markers in HDPSCs. MTA-Fillapex was the most cytotoxic oxidative stress inductor and genotoxic material for HDPSCs at longer times in preincubated cell culture medium, and MTA-Angelus was less cytotoxic and genotoxic than AH-Plus and MTA-Fillapex at all times assayed.

Arabidopsis RETINOBLASTOMA RELATED directly regulates DNA damage responses through functions beyond cell cycle control

The rapidly proliferating cells in plant meristems must be protected from genome damage. Here, we show that the regulatory role of the Arabidopsis RETINOBLASTOMA RELATED (RBR) in cell proliferation can be separated from a novel function in safeguarding genome integrity. Upon DNA damage, RBR and its binding partner E2FA are recruited to heterochromatic γH2AX-labelled DNA damage foci in an ATM- and ATR-dependent manner. These γH2AX-labelled DNA lesions are more dispersedly occupied by the conserved repair protein, AtBRCA1, which can also co-localise with RBR foci. RBR and AtBRCA1 physically interact in vitro and in planta Genetic interaction between the RBR-silenced amiRBR and Atbrca1 mutants suggests that RBR and AtBRCA1 may function together in maintaining genome integrity. Together with E2FA, RBR is directly involved in the transcriptional DNA damage response as well as in the cell death pathway that is independent of SOG1, the plant functional analogue of p53. Thus, plant homologs and analogues of major mammalian tumour suppressor proteins form a regulatory network that coordinates cell proliferation with cell and genome integrity.

Alkaline ceramidase 2 and its bioactive product sphingosine are novel regulators of the DNA damage response

Human cells respond to DNA damage by elevating sphingosine, a bioactive sphingolipid that induces programmed cell death (PCD) in response to various forms of stress, but its regulation and role in the DNA damage response remain obscure. Herein we demonstrate that DNA damage increases sphingosine levels in tumor cells by upregulating alkaline ceramidase 2 (ACER2) and that the upregulation of the ACER2/sphingosine pathway induces PCD in response to DNA damage by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Treatment with the DNA damaging agent doxorubicin increased both ACER2 expression and sphingosine levels in HCT116 cells in a dose-dependent manner. ACER2 overexpression increased sphingosine in HeLa cells whereas knocking down ACER2 inhibited the doxorubicin-induced increase in sphingosine in HCT116 cells, suggesting that DNA damage elevates sphingosine by upregulating ACER2. Knocking down ACER2 inhibited an increase in the apoptotic and necrotic cell population and the cleavage of poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) in HCT116 cells in response to doxorubicin as well as doxorubicin-induced release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from these cells. Similar to treatment with doxorubicin, ACER2 overexpression induced an increase in the apoptotic and necrotic cell population and PARP cleavage in HeLa cells and LDH release from cells, suggesting that ACER2 upregulation mediates PCD in response to DNA damage through sphingosine. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the upregulation of the ACER2/sphingosine pathway induces PCD by increasing ROS levels. Taken together, these results suggest that the ACER2/sphingosine pathway mediates PCD in response to DNA damage through ROS production.

Role of Chromatin Modifications in Drosophila Germline Stem Cell Differentiation

During Drosophila oogenesis, germline stem cells (GSCs) self-renew and differentiate to give rise to a mature egg. Self-renewal and differentiation of GSCs are regulated by both intrinsic mechanisms such as regulation of gene expression in the germ line and extrinsic signaling pathways from the surrounding somatic niche. Epigenetic mechanisms, including histone-modifying proteins, nucleosome remodeling complexes, and histone variants, play a critical role in regulating intrinsic gene expression and extrinsic signaling cues from the somatic niche. In the GSCs, intrinsic epigenetic modifiers are required to maintain a stem cell fate by promoting expression of self-renewal factors and repressing the differentiation program. Subsequently, in the GSC daughters, epigenetic regulators activate the differentiation program to promote GSC differentiation. During differentiation, the GSC daughter undergoes meiosis to give rise to the developing egg, containing a compacted chromatin architecture called the karyosome. Epigenetic modifiers control the attachment of chromosomes to the nuclear lamina to aid in meiotic recombination and the release from the lamina for karyosome formation. The germ line is in close contact with the soma for the entirety of this developmental process. This proximity facilitates signaling from the somatic niche to the developing germ line. Epigenetic modifiers play a critical role in the somatic niche, modulating signaling pathways in order to coordinate the transition of GSC to an egg. Together, intrinsic and extrinsic epigenetic mechanisms modulate this exquisitely balanced program.

Modeling the heterogeneity of p53 dynamics in DNA damage response

The tumor suppressor p53 can be activated by DNA damage and exhibits undamped pulses. Recent reports have demonstrated a non-threshold mechanism for p53 dynamics. However, no related theoretical studies have been proposed. Here, we constructed a refined DNA damage repair model that incorporated both intrinsic and extrinsic DNA lesions. We proposed that the basal DNA damage may trigger significant fractions of p53 pulses. We also reproduced the heterogeneity of p53 dynamics in experiments. The number of p53 pulses showed no correlations with DNA damage. We also replicated the linear correlation between DNA damage and the probability of igniting a pulse. Our model has unraveled the heterogeneous p53 responses.

Effects of corexit oil dispersants and the WAF of dispersed oil on DNA damage and repair in cultured human bronchial airway cells, BEAS-2B

Large quantities of dispersants were used as a method to disperse the roughly 210 million gallons of spilled crude oil that consumed the Gulf of Mexico. Little is known if the oil-dispersant and oil-dispersant mixtures on human airway BEAS-2B epithelial cells. Here we present the cytotoxic and genotoxic in vitro effects on the human lung cells BEAS-2B following exposure to and oil-dispersant mixtures on human airway BEAS-2B epithelial cells. Here we present the cytotoxic and genotoxic in vitro effects on the human lung cells BEAS-2B following exposure to Corexit dispersants EC9500 and EC9527, Water Accommodated Fraction (WAF) -crude, WAF-9500 + Oil, and WAF-9527 + Oil. Cellular cytotoxicity to WAF-dispersed oil samples was observed at concentrations greater than 1000 ppm with over 70% of observed cellular death. At low concentration exposures (100 and 300 ppm) DNA damage was evidenced by the detection of single strand breaks (SSBs) and double strand breaks (DSBs) as measured by alkaline and neutral comet assay analyses. Immunoblot analyses of the phosphorylated histone H2A.X (ɣ-H2A.X) and tumor suppressor p53 protein confirmed activation of the DNA damage response due to the exposure-induced DNA breaks. Although, many xenobiotics interfere with DNA repair pathways, in vitro evaluation of the nucleotide excision repair (NER) and DSB repair pathways appear to be unaffected by the oil-dispersant mixtures tested. Overall, this study supports that oil-dispersant mixtures induce genotoxic effects in culture.

TRAIP/RNF206 is required for recruitment of RAP80 to sites of DNA damage

RAP80 localizes to sites of DNA insults to enhance the DNA-damage responses. Here we identify TRAIP/RNF206 as a novel RAP80-interacting protein and find that TRAIP is necessary for translocation of RAP80 to DNA lesions. Depletion of TRAIP results in impaired accumulation of RAP80 and functional downstream partners, including BRCA1, at DNA lesions. Conversely, accumulation of TRAIP is normal in RAP80-depleted cells, implying that TRAIP acts upstream of RAP80 recruitment to DNA lesions. TRAIP localizes to sites of DNA damage and cells lacking TRAIP exhibit classical DNA-damage response-defect phenotypes. Biochemical analysis reveals that the N terminus of TRAIP is crucial for RAP80 interaction, while the C terminus of TRAIP is required for TRAIP localization to sites of DNA damage through a direct interaction with RNF20–RNF40. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the novel RAP80-binding partner TRAIP regulates recruitment of the damage signalling machinery and promotes homologous recombination.

Recruiting DNA damage repair factors to the sites of DNA damage is critical for the maintenance of genome integrity. Here the authors identify that the TRAF-interacting protein (TRAIP/RNF206) is required for normal recruitment of RAP80 to DNA lesions and the stimulation of homologous recombination.

Colorectal cancer: role of commensal bacteria and bystander effects

For years the human microbiota has been implicated in the etiology of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, identifying the molecular mechanisms for how aneuploidy and chromosomal instability (CIN) arise in sporadic and colitis-associated CRC has been difficult. In this Addendum we review recent work from our laboratory that explore mechanisms by which intestinal commensals polarize colon macrophages to an M1 phenotype to generate a bystander effect (BSE) that leads to mutations, spindle malfunction, cell cycle arrest, tetraploidy, and aneuploidy in epithelial cells. BSE represents the application of a phenomenon initially described in the radiation biology field. The result of commensal-driven BSE on colon epithelial cells is aneuploidy, chromosomal instability (CIN), expression of stem cell and tumor stem cell markers and, ultimately, malignant transformation. Our findings provide a conceptual framework for integrating the microbiota with aging, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and inflammation as risk factors for CRC.

Can Peto's paradox be used as the null hypothesis to identify the role of evolution in natural resistance to cancer? A critical review

BACKGROUND

Carcinogenesis affects not only humans but almost all metazoan species. Understanding the rules driving the occurrence of cancers in the wild is currently expected to provide crucial insights into identifying how some species may have evolved efficient cancer resistance mechanisms. Recently the absence of correlation across species between cancer prevalence and body size (coined as Peto's paradox) has attracted a lot of attention. Indeed, the disparity between this null hypothesis, where every cell is assumed to have an identical probability to undergo malignant transformation, and empirical observations is particularly important to understand, due to the fact that it could facilitate the identification of animal species that are more resistant to carcinogenesis than expected. Moreover it would open up ways to identify the selective pressures that may be involved in cancer resistance. However, Peto's paradox relies on several questionable assumptions, complicating the interpretation of the divergence between expected and observed cancer incidences.

DISCUSSIONS

Here we review and challenge the different hypotheses on which this paradox relies on with the aim of identifying how this null hypothesis could be better estimated in order to provide a standard protocol to study the deviation between theoretical/theoretically predicted and observed cancer incidence. We show that due to the disproportion and restricted nature of available data on animal cancers, applying Peto's hypotheses at species level could result in erroneous conclusions, and actually assume the existence of a paradox. Instead of using species level comparisons, we propose an organ level approach to be a more accurate test of Peto's assumptions.

SUMMARY

The accuracy of Peto's paradox assumptions are rarely valid and/or quantifiable, suggesting the need to reconsider the use of Peto's paradox as a null hypothesis in identifying the influence of natural selection on cancer resistance mechanisms.

Sirtuins in Cancer: a Balancing Act between Genome Stability and Metabolism

Genomic instability and altered metabolism are key features of most cancers. Recent studies suggest that metabolic reprogramming is part of a systematic response to cellular DNA damage. Thus, defining the molecules that fine-tune metabolism in response to DNA damage will enhance our understanding of molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis and have profound implications for the development of strategies for cancer therapy. Sirtuins have been established as critical regulators in cellular homeostasis and physiology. Here, we review the emerging data revealing a pivotal function of sirtuins in genome maintenance and cell metabolism, and highlight current advances about the phenotypic consequences of defects in these critical regulators in tumorigenesis. While many questions should be addressed about the regulation and context-dependent functions of sirtuins, it appears clear that sirtuins may provide a promising, exciting new avenue for cancer therapy.

EPI-CT: in vitro assessment of the applicability of the γ-H2AX-foci assay as cellular biomarker for exposure in a multicentre study of children in diagnostic radiology

PURPOSE

To conduct a feasibility study on the application of the γ-H2AX foci assay as an exposure biomarker in a prospective multicentre paediatric radiology setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A set of in vitro experiments was performed to evaluate technical hurdles related to biological sample collection in a paediatric radiology setting (small blood sample volume), processing and storing of blood samples (effect of storing blood at 4°C), the reliability of foci scoring for low-doses (merge γ-H2AX/53BP1 scoring), as well as the impact of contrast agent administration as potential confounding factor. Given the exploratory nature of this study and the ethical constraints related to paediatric blood sampling, blood samples from adult volunteers were used for these experiments. In order to test the feasibility of pooling the γ-H2AX data when different centres are involved in an international multicentre study, two intercomparison studies in the low-dose range (10-500 mGy) were performed.

RESULTS

Determination of the number of X-ray induced γ-H2AX foci is feasible with one 2 ml blood sample pre- and post-computed tomography (CT) scan. Lymphocyte isolation and fixation on slides is necessary within 5 h of blood sampling to guarantee reliable results. The possible enhancement effect of contrast medium on the induction of DNA DSB in a patient study can be ruled out if radiation doses and the contrast agent concentration are within diagnostic ranges. The intercomparison studies using in vitro irradiated blood samples showed that the participating laboratories, executing successfully the γ-H2AX foci assay in lymphocytes, were able to rank blind samples in order of lowest to highest radiation dose based on mean foci/cell counts. The dose response of all intercomparison data shows that a dose point of 10 mGy could be distinguished from the sham-irradiated control (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate that it is feasible to apply the γ-H2AX foci assay as a cellular biomarker of exposure in a multicentre prospective study in paediatric CT imaging after validating it in an in vivo international pilot study on paediatric patients.

Sensitization of radio-resistant prostate cancer cells with a unique cytolethal distending toxin

Cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) produced by Campylobacter jejuni is a genotoxin that induces cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in mammalian cells. Recent studies have demonstrated that prostate cancer (PCa) cells can acquire radio-resistance when DOC-2/DAB2 interactive protein (DAB2IP) is downregulated. In this study, we showed that CDT could induce cell death in DAB2IP-deficient PCa cells. A combination of CDT and radiotherapy significantly elicited cell death in DAB2IP-deficient PCa cells by inhibiting the repair of ionizing radiation (IR)-induced DNA double-strand break (DSB) during G2/M arrest, which is triggered by ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM)-dependent DNA damage checkpoint responses. We also found that CDT administration significantly increased the efficacy of radiotherapy in a xenograft mouse model. These results indicate that CDT can be a potent therapeutic agent for radio-resistant PCa.

WRN translocation from nucleolus to nucleoplasm is regulated by SIRT1 and required for DNA repair and the development of chemoresistance

When defective or absent, Werner syndrome protein (WRN) causes a genetic premature aging disorder called Werner syndrome. Several studies have reported that defects in WRN function are responsible for not only progeria syndrome but also genomic instability via the deregulation of DNA repair, replication, recombination, and telomere stability. Given the importance of WRN in the repair process, we herein investigated the potential role of WRN in drug response by evaluating the DNA repair following exposure to cisplatin in human cancer cell lines. We found that the down-regulation of SIRT1 and inhibition of SIRT1 deacetylase activity blocked the translocation of WRN from the nucleolus to the nucleoplasm in response to genotoxic stresses. In addition, cells expressing low levels of WRN responded favorably to cisplatin, whereas cells expressing high levels responded poorly to cisplatin. The forced expression of WRN protein in chemosensitive cells resulted in an approximately two-fold increase in cell viability in response to cisplatin compared with vector controls and promoted DNA repair, while WRN-deficient cells accumulate unrepaired double-strand breaks following cisplatin exposure. These results suggest that WRN is regulated by SIRT1 and increased expression of WRN might be one of the determinants for the development of chemotherapeutic drug resistance.

The FHA domain determines Drosophila Chk2/Mnk localization to key mitotic structures and is essential for early embryonic DNA damage responses

DNA damage responses, including mitotic centrosome inactivation, cell-cycle delay in mitosis, and nuclear dropping from embryo cortex, maintain genome integrity in syncytial Drosophila embryos. A conserved signaling kinase, Chk2, known as Mnk/Loki, is essential for the responses. Here we demonstrate that functional EGFP-Mnk expressed from a transgene localizes to the nucleus, centrosomes, interkinetochore/centromere region, midbody, and pseudocleavage furrows without DNA damage and in addition forms numerous foci/aggregates on mitotic chromosomes upon DNA damage. We expressed EGFP-tagged Mnk deletion or point mutation variants and investigated domain functions of Mnk in vivo. A triple mutation in the phosphopeptide-binding site of the forkhead-associated (FHA) domain disrupted normal Mnk localization except to the nucleus. The mutation also disrupted Mnk foci formation on chromosomes upon DNA damage. FHA mutations and deletion of the SQ/TQ-cluster domain (SCD) abolished Mnk transphosphorylations and autophosphorylations, indicative of kinase activation after DNA damage. A potent NLS was found at the C-terminus, which is required for normal Mnk function. We propose that the FHA domain in Mnk plays essential dual functions in mediating embryonic DNA damage responses by means of its phosphopeptide-binding ability: activating Mnk in the nucleus upon DNA damage and recruiting Mnk to multiple subcellular structures independently of DNA damage.

WWOX, the common fragile site FRA16D gene product, regulates ATM activation and the DNA damage response

Genomic instability is a hallmark of cancer. The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) is a tumor suppressor spanning the common chromosomal fragile site FRA16D. Here, we report a direct role of WWOX in DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA repair. We show that Wwox deficiency results in reduced activation of the ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) checkpoint kinase, inefficient induction and maintenance of γ-H2AX foci, and impaired DNA repair. Mechanistically, we show that, upon DNA damage, WWOX accumulates in the cell nucleus, where it interacts with ATM and enhances its activation. Nuclear accumulation of WWOX is regulated by its K63-linked ubiquitination at lysine residue 274, which is mediated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH. These findings identify a novel role for the tumor suppressor WWOX and show that loss of WWOX expression may drive genomic instability and provide an advantage for clonal expansion of neoplastic cells.

γ-H2AX foci are increased in lymphocytes in vivo in young children 1 h after very low-dose X-irradiation: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging modality involving ionizing radiation. The presence of γ-H2AX foci after low to moderate ionizing radiation exposure has been demonstrated; however it is unknown whether very low ionizing radiation exposure doses from CT exams can induce γ-H2AX formation in vivo in young children.

OBJECTIVE

To test whether very low ionizing radiation doses from CT exams can induce lymphocytic γ-H2AX foci (phosphorylated histones used as a marker of DNA damage) formation in vivo in young children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Parents of participating children signed a consent form. Blood samples from three children (ages 3-21 months) undergoing CT exams involving very low blood ionizing radiation exposure doses (blood doses of 0.22-1.22 mGy) were collected immediately before and 1 h post CT exams. Isolated lymphocytes were quantified for γ-H2AX foci by a technician blinded to the radiation status and dose of the patients. Paired t-tests and regression analyses were performed with significance levels set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

We observed a dose-dependent increase in γ-H2AX foci post-CT exams (P = 0.046) among the three children. Ionizing radiation exposure doses led to a linear increase of foci per cell in post-CT samples (102% between lowest and highest dose).

CONCLUSION

We found a significant induction of γ-H2AX foci in lymphocytes from post-CT samples of three very young children. When possible, CT exams should be limited or avoided by possibly applying non-ionizing radiation exposure techniques such as US or MRI.

Repression of Gurken translation by a meiotic checkpoint in Drosophila oogenesis is suppressed by a reduction in the dose of eIF1A

In Drosophila melanogaster, the anteroposterior (AP) and dorsoventral (DV) axes of the oocyte and future embryo are established through the localization and translational regulation of gurken (grk) mRNA. This process involves binding of specific factors to the RNA during transport and a dynamic remodeling of the grk-containing ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes once they have reached their destination within the oocyte. In ovaries of spindle-class females, an activated DNA damage checkpoint causes inefficient Grk translation and ventralization of the oocyte. In a screen for modifiers of the oocyte DV patterning defects, we identified a mutation in the eIF1A gene as a dominant suppressor. We show that reducing the function of eIF1A in spnB ovaries suppresses the ventralized eggshell phenotype by restoring Grk expression. This suppression is not the result of more efficient DNA damage repair or of disrupted checkpoint activation, but is coupled to an increase in the amount of grk mRNA associated with polysomes. In spnB ovaries, the activated meiotic checkpoint blocks Grk translation by disrupting the accumulation of grk mRNA in a translationally competent RNP complex that contains the translational activator Oo18 RNA-binding protein (Orb); this regulation involves the translational repressor Squid (Sqd). We further propose that reduction of eIF1A allows more efficient Grk translation possibly because of the presence of specific structural features in the grk 5'UTR.

The Role of Translational Regulation in Survival after Radiation Damage; an Opportunity for Proteomics Analysis

In this review, we will summarize the data from different model systems that illustrate the need for proteome-wide analyses of the biological consequences of ionizing radiation (IR). IR remains one of three main therapy choices for oncology, the others being surgery and chemotherapy. Understanding how cells and tissues respond to IR is essential for improving therapeutic regimes against cancer. Numerous studies demonstrating the changes in the transcriptome following exposure to IR, in diverse systems, can be found in the scientific literature. However, the limitation of our knowledge is illustrated by the fact that the number of transcripts that change after IR exposure is approximately an order of magnitude lower than the number of transcripts that re-localize to or from ribosomes under similar conditions. Furthermore, changes in the post-translational modifications of proteins (phosphorylation, acetylation as well as degradation) are profoundly important for the cellular response to IR. These considerations make proteomics a highly suitable tool for mechanistic studies of the effect of IR. Strikingly such studies remain outnumbered by those utilizing proteomics for diagnostic purposes such as the identification of biomarkers for the outcome of radiation therapy. Here we will discuss the role of the ribosome and translational regulation in the survival and preservation of cells and tissues after exposure to ionizing radiation. In doing so we hope to provide a strong incentive for the study of proteome-wide changes following IR exposure.

Cre recombinase induces DNA damage and tetraploidy in the absence of loxP sites

The spatiotemporal manipulations of gene expression by the Cre recombinase (Cre) of bacteriophage P1 has become an essential asset to understanding mammalian genetics. Accumulating evidence suggests that Cre activity can, in addition to excising targeted loxP sites, induce cytotoxic effects, including abnormal cell cycle progression, genomic instability, and apoptosis, which can accelerate cancer progression. It is speculated that these defects are caused by Cre-induced DNA damage at off-target sites. Here we report the formation of tetraploid keratinocytes in the epidermis of keratin 5 and/or keratin 14 promoter-driven Cre (KRT5- and KRT14-Cre) expressing mouse skin. Biochemical analyses and flow cytometry demonstrated that Cre expression also induces DNA damage, genomic instability, and tetraploidy in HCT116 cells, and live-cell imaging revealed an extension of the G 2 cell cycle phase followed by defective or skipping of mitosis as cause for the tetraploidy. Since tetraploidy eventually leads to aneuploidy, a hallmark of cancer, our findings highlight the importance of distinguishing non-specific cytopathic effects from specific Cre/loxP-driven genetic manipulations when using Cre-mediated gene deletions.

Radiation responses and resistance

The cytotoxic effect of ionizing radiation makes it a popular therapeutic tool against cancer. It is, however, a double-edged sword. Radiation exposure unleashes a plethora of protective and survival mechanisms that include increased proliferation, remodeling of the vasculature and altered cell motility. These mechanisms can play a pro-survival role in remaining cells, contributing to repopulation of tumors after radiation treatment. Understanding these mechanisms and finding ways to minimize their impact would improve the outcome of radiotherapy.