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Tate EW, Soday L, de la Lastra AL, Wang M, Lin H. Protein lipidation in cancer: mechanisms, dysregulation and emerging drug targets. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:240-260. [PMID: 38424304 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Protein lipidation describes a diverse class of post-translational modifications (PTMs) that is regulated by over 40 enzymes, targeting more than 1,000 substrates at over 3,000 sites. Lipidated proteins include more than 150 oncoproteins, including mediators of cancer initiation, progression and immunity, receptor kinases, transcription factors, G protein-coupled receptors and extracellular signalling proteins. Lipidation regulates the physical interactions of its protein substrates with cell membranes, regulating protein signalling and trafficking, and has a key role in metabolism and immunity. Targeting protein lipidation, therefore, offers a unique approach to modulate otherwise undruggable oncoproteins; however, the full spectrum of opportunities to target the dysregulation of these PTMs in cancer remains to be explored. This is attributable in part to the technological challenges of identifying the targets and the roles of protein lipidation. The early stage of drug discovery for many enzymes in the pathway contrasts with efforts for drugging similarly common PTMs such as phosphorylation and acetylation, which are routinely studied and targeted in relevant cancer contexts. Here, we review recent advances in identifying targetable protein lipidation pathways in cancer, the current state-of-the-art in drug discovery, and the status of ongoing clinical trials, which have the potential to deliver novel oncology therapeutics targeting protein lipidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward W Tate
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
| | - Lior Soday
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hening Lin
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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2
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Al-Hawary SIS, Rodrigues P, Bangali H, Hassan ZF, Elawady A. The role of long noncoding RNA DGCR5 in cancers: Focus on molecular targets. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3949. [PMID: 38379219 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are major components of cellular transcripts that are emerging as important players in various biological pathways. Due to their specific expression and functional diversity in a variety of cancers, lncRNAs have promising applications in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. Studies have shown that lncRNA DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 5 (DGCR5) with high specificity and accuracy has the potential to become biomarkers in cancers. LncRNA DGCR5 can be noninvasively extracted from body fluids, tissues, and cells, and can be used as independent or auxiliary biomarkers to improve the accuracy of diagnosis or prognosis. Now, the underlying mechanisms of lncRNAs such as DGCR5 were explored as therapeutic targets, which have been investigated in clinical trials of several cancers. The DGCR5 lacks an appropriate animal model, which is necessary to gain greater knowledge of their functions. While some studies on the uses of DGCR5 have been carried out, the small sample size makes them unreliable. In this review, we presented a compilation of recent publications addressing the potential of lncRNA DGCR5 that could be considered as biomarkers or therapeutic targets, with the hopes of providing promised implications for future cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Rodrigues
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Harun Bangali
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahmed Elawady
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
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Chhichholiya Y, Singh HV, Vashistha R, Singh S, Munshi A. Deciphering the role of KRAS gene in oncogenesis: Focus on signaling pathways, genetic alterations in 3'UTR, KRAS specific miRNAs and therapeutic interventions. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 194:104250. [PMID: 38143047 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a significant cause of death after cardiovascular disease. The genomic, epigenetic and environmental factors have been found to be the risk factor for the disease. The most important genes that develop cancer are oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Among oncogenes, KRAS has emerged as a significant player in the development of many cancers. Dysregulation of the RAS signaling pathway either on account of mutation in significant genes involved in the pathway or aberrant expression of different miRNAs targeting these genes including KRAS. The focus is also on the alterations in 3'UTR of the KRAS gene sequence as well as the changes in the miRNA encoding genes especially the one targeting the KRAS gene. Efforts are also being put in to target the dysregulated KRAS gene as a therapeutic approach to treat different cancers. However, there are some challenges like resistance to KRAS inhibitors that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogita Chhichholiya
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Harsh Vikram Singh
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | | | - Sandeep Singh
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Anjana Munshi
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India.
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4
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Yin Q, Ma H, Dong Y, Zhang S, Wang J, Liang J, Mao L, Zeng L, Xiong X, Chen X, Wang J, Zheng X. The integration of multidisciplinary approaches revealed PTGES3 as a novel drug target for breast cancer treatment. J Transl Med 2024; 22:84. [PMID: 38245717 PMCID: PMC10800054 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04899-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main challenge in personalized treatment of breast cancer (BC) is how to integrate massive amounts of computing resources and data. This study aimed to identify a novel molecular target that might be effective for BC prognosis and for targeted therapy by using network-based multidisciplinary approaches. METHODS Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were first identified based on ESTIMATE analysis. A risk model in the TCGA-BRCA cohort was constructed using the risk score of six DEGs and validated in external and clinical in-house cohorts. Subsequently, independent prognostic factors in the internal and external cohorts were evaluated. Cell viability CCK-8 and wound healing assays were performed after PTGES3 siRNA was transiently transfected into the BC cell lines. Drug prediction and molecular docking between PTGES3 and drugs were further analyzed. Cell viability and PTGES3 expression in two BC cell lines after drug treatment were also investigated. RESULTS A novel six-gene signature (including APOOL, BNIP3, F2RL2, HINT3, PTGES3 and RTN3) was used to establish a prognostic risk stratification model. The risk score was an independent prognostic factor that was more accurate than clinicopathological risk factors alone in predicting overall survival (OS) in BC patients. A high risk score favored tumor stage/grade but not OS. PTGES3 had the highest hazard ratio among the six genes in the signature, and its mRNA and protein levels significantly increased in BC cell lines. PTGES3 knockdown significantly inhibited BC cell proliferation and migration. Three drugs (gedunin, genistein and diethylstilbestrol) were confirmed to target PTGES3, and genistein and diethylstilbestrol demonstrated stronger binding affinities than did gedunin. Genistein and diethylstilbestrol significantly inhibited BC cell proliferation and reduced the protein and mRNA levels of PTGES3. CONCLUSIONS PTGES3 was found to be a novel drug target in a robust six-gene prognostic signature that may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Yin
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Haodi Ma
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Yirui Dong
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Shunshun Zhang
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Junxiang Wang
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Jing Liang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Longfei Mao
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Li Zeng
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xin Xiong
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xingang Chen
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xuewei Zheng
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China.
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5
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Karthikeyan S, Casey PJ, Wang M. RAB4A GTPase regulates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by modulating RAC1 activation. Breast Cancer Res 2022; 24:72. [PMID: 36307864 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-022-01564-6] [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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical underpinning process for cancer progression, recurrence and resistance to drug treatment. Identification of new regulators of EMT could lead to the development of effective therapies to improve the outcome of advanced cancers. In the current study we discovered, using a variety of in vitro and in vivo approaches, that RAB4A function is essential for EMT and related manifestation of stemness and invasive properties. Consistently, RAB4A suppression abolished the cancer cells' self-renewal and tumor forming ability. In terms of downstream signaling, we found that RAB4A regulation of EMT is achieved through its control of activation of the RAC1 GTPase. Introducing activated RAC1 efficiently rescued EMT gene expression, invasion and tumor formation suppressed by RAB4A knockdown in both the in vitro and in vivo cancer models. In summary, this study identifies a RAB4A-RAC1 signaling axis as a key regulatory mechanism for the process of EMT and cancer progression and suggests a potential therapeutic approach to controlling these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subbulakshmi Karthikeyan
- Program in Cancer Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Program in Cancer Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore. .,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore.
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6
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Zhao J, Zhao Z, Hou W, Jiang Y, Liu G, Ren X, Liu K, Liu H, Chen K, Huang H. Quantitative Proteomics Explore the Potential Targets and Action Mechanisms of Hydroxychloroquine. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27165175. [PMID: 36014414 PMCID: PMC9416215 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an autophagy inhibitor that has been used for the treatment of many diseases, such as malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and cancer. Despite the therapeutic advances in these diseases, the underlying mechanisms have not been well determined and hinder the rational use of this drug in the future. Here, we explored the possible mechanisms and identified the potential binding targets of HCQ by performing quantitative proteomics and thermal proteome profiling on MIA PaCa-2 cells. This study revealed that HCQ may exert its functions by targeting some autophagy-related proteins such as ribosyldihydronicotinamide dehydrogenase (NQO2) and transport protein Sec23A (SEC23A), or regulating the expression of galectin-8 (LGALS8), mitogen-activated protein kinase 8 (MAPK8), and so on. Furthermore, HCQ may prevent the progression of pancreatic cancer by regulating the expression of nesprin-2 (SYNE2), protein-S-isoprenylcysteine O-methyltransferase (ICMT), and cotranscriptional regulator FAM172A (FAM172A). Together, these findings not only identified potential binding targets for HCQ but also revealed the non-canonical mechanisms of HCQ that may contribute to pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxiang Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhao
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Wanting Hou
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Guobin Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xuelian Ren
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kun Liu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Hong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Correspondence: (K.C.); (H.H.)
| | - He Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Correspondence: (K.C.); (H.H.)
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7
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Zhu C, Guan X, Zhang X, Luan X, Song Z, Cheng X, Zhang W, Qin JJ. Targeting KRAS mutant cancers: from druggable therapy to drug resistance. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:159. [PMID: 35922812 PMCID: PMC9351107 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01629-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS) is the most frequently mutated oncogene, occurring in a variety of tumor types. Targeting KRAS mutations with drugs is challenging because KRAS is considered undruggable due to the lack of classic drug binding sites. Over the past 40 years, great efforts have been made to explore routes for indirect targeting of KRAS mutant cancers, including KRAS expression, processing, upstream regulators, or downstream effectors. With the advent of KRAS (G12C) inhibitors, KRAS mutations are now druggable. Despite such inhibitors showing remarkable clinical responses, resistance to monotherapy of KRAS inhibitors is eventually developed. Significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance to KRAS-mutant inhibitors. Here we review the most recent advances in therapeutic approaches and resistance mechanisms targeting KRAS mutations and discuss opportunities for combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Zhu
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Xiaoqing Guan
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xinuo Zhang
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, China
| | - Xin Luan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhengbo Song
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xiangdong Cheng
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China. .,School of Molecular Medicine, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310024, China. .,Key Laboratory of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
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Adinew GM, Messeha SS, Taka E, Badisa RB, Antonie LM, Soliman KFA. Thymoquinone Alterations of the Apoptotic Gene Expressions and Cell Cycle Arrest in Genetically Distinct Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Nutrients 2022; 14:2120. [PMID: 35631261 PMCID: PMC9144154 DOI: 10.3390/nu14102120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women. triple-negative breast Cancer (TNBC), a subtype of BC, is typically associated with the highest pathogenic grade and incidence in premenopausal and young African American (AA) women. Chemotherapy, the most common treatment for TNBC today, can lead to acquired resistance and ineffective treatment. Therefore, novel therapeutic approaches are needed to combat medication resistance and ineffectiveness in TNBC patients. Thymoquinone (TQ) is shown to have a cytotoxic effect on human cancer cells in vitro. However, TQ's mode of action and precise mechanism in TNBC disease in vitro have not been adequately investigated. Therefore, TQ's effects on the genetically different MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines were assessed. The data obtained show that TQ displayed cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner after 24 h, with IC50 values of 25.37 µM and 27.39 µM, respectively. Moreover, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells in a scratched wound-healing assay displayed poor wound closure, inhibiting invasion and migration via cell cycle blocking after 24 h. TQ arrested the cell cycle phase in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. The three cell cycle stages in MDA-MB-468 cells were significantly affected at 15 and 20 µM for G0/G1 and S phases, as well as all TQ concentrations for G2/M phases. In MDA-MB-468 cells, there was a significant decrease in G0/G1 phases with a substantial increase in the S phase and G2/M phases. In contrast, MDA-MB-231 showed a significant effect only during the two cell cycle stages (S and G2/M), at concentrations of 15 and 20 µM for S phases and all TQ values for G2/M phases. The TQ effect on the apoptotic gene profiles indicated that TQ upregulated 15 apoptotic genes in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells, including caspases, GADD45A, TP53, DFFA, DIABLO, BNIP3, TRAF2/3, and TNFRSF10A. In MDA-MB-468 cells, 16 apoptotic genes were upregulated, including TNFRSF10A, TNF, TNFRSF11B, FADD TNFRSF10B, CASP2, and TRAF2, all of which are important for the apoptotic pathway andsuppress the expression of one anti-apoptotic gene, BIRC5, in MDA-MB-231 cells. Compared to MDA-MB-231 cells, elevated levels of TNF and their receptor proteins may contribute to their increased sensitivity to TQ-induced apoptosis. It was concluded from this study that TQ targets the MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells differently. Additionally, due to the aggressive nature of TNBC and the lack of specific therapies in chemoresistant TNBC, our findings related to the identified apoptotic gene profile may point to TQ as a potential agent for TNBC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Karam F. A. Soliman
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA; (G.M.A.); (S.S.M.); (E.T.); (R.B.B.); (L.M.A.)
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Wadood A, Ajmal A, Rehman AU. Strategies of targeting KRAS, challenging drug target. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:1897-1901. [PMID: 35524675 DOI: 10.2174/1381612828666220506144046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In the developed world, cancer is the most common cause of death. Among the 36 human genes of the RAS family, KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS play a prominent role in human cancer. KRAS belongs to the Rassuperfamily of proteins and is a small GTPase signal transduction protein. Among the RAS isoform, KRAS is the dominant mutant that induced approximately 86% of the RAS mutations. The most frequently mutated KRAS isoform is KRAS4B, about 90% of pancreatic cancer, 30-40% of colon cancer, and 15 to 20% of lung cancers are caused by mutations KRAS4B isoform. Liver cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer, and myeloid leukaemia are also caused by mutations in KRAS but are rare. Currently, no FDA-approved drugs are available for KRAS-driven cancer. As the RAS proteins lack a right pocket accessible to the chemical inhibitors, the cancer-causing mutant proteins are almost identical to their essential wild-type counterparts. Therefore, it was considered undruggable. The structure and function of new insights in RAS have changed this understanding and encouraged the development of many drug candidates. This review provides information about the different strategies of targeting KRAS, a challenging drug target that might be valuable for the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Wadood
- Department of Biochemistry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Amar Ajmal
- Department of Biochemistry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Ashfaq Ur Rehman
- Department of Pathophysiology Key Laboratory of Cell differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, China
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10
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Negri F, Bottarelli L, de’Angelis GL, Gnetti L. KRAS: A Druggable Target in Colon Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084120. [PMID: 35456940 PMCID: PMC9027058 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in KRAS are among the most frequent aberrations in cancer, including colon cancer. KRAS direct targeting is daunting due to KRAS protein resistance to small molecule inhibition. Moreover, its elevated affinity to cellular guanosine triphosphate (GTP) has made the design of specific drugs challenging. Indeed, KRAS was considered ‘undruggable’. KRASG12C is the most commonly mutated variant of KRAS in non-small cell lung cancer. Currently, the achievements obtained with covalent inhibitors of this variant have given the possibility to assess the best therapeutic approach to KRAS-driven tumors. Mutation-related biochemical assets and the tissue of origin are expected to influence responses to treatment. Further attempts to obtain mutant-specific KRAS (KRASG12C) switch-II covalent inhibitors are ongoing and the results are promising. Drugs targeted to block KRAS effector pathways could be combined with direct KRAS inhibitors, immunotherapy or T cell-targeting approaches in KRAS-mutant tumors. The development of valuable combination regimens will be essential against potential mechanisms of resistance that may arise during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Negri
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lorena Bottarelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Gian Luigi de’Angelis
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Letizia Gnetti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
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Shan J, Wang Z, Mo Q, Long J, Fan Y, Cheng L, Zhang T, Liu X, Wang X. Ribonucleotide reductase M2 subunit silencing suppresses tumorigenesis in pancreatic cancer via inactivation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Pancreatology 2022; 22:401-413. [PMID: 35300916 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Ribonucleotide Reductase M2 subunit (RRM2) is elevated in pancreatic cancer and involved in DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. But its specific mechanism including genetic differences and upstream regulatory pathways remains unclear. METHODS We analyzed RRM2 expression of 178 pancreatic cancer patients in Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database. Besides, more pancreatic cancer specimens were collected and detected RRM2 expression by immunohistochemistry. RRM2 knockdown by shRNA was applied for functional and mechanism analysis in vitro. Xenograft tumor growth was significantly slower by RRM2 silencing in vivo. RESULTS It showed that high RRM2 expression had a poorer overall survival and disease free survival. RRM2 expression was higher in tumor grade 2 and 3 than grade 1. Immunohistochemistry data validated that high RRM2 expression predicted worse survival. RRM2 knockdown significantly reduced cell proliferation, inhibited colony formation and suppressed cell cycle progress. Further mechanism assay showed silencing RRM2 lead to inactivation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and inhibition of mutant p53, which induce S phase arrest and/or apoptosis. In panc-1 cells, S-phase arrest mediated by mutant p53 inhibition, p21 increase and cell cycle related proteins change. While in miapaca-2 cells, induction of apoptosis and S-phase arrest mediated by CDK1 played a coordinated role. CONCLUSION Taken together, high RRM2 expression was associated with worse prognosis. Importantly, RRM2 knockdown deactivated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, resulting in cell cycle arrest and/or apoptosis. This study shed light on the molecular mechanism of RRM2 in pancreatic tumor progression and is expected to provide a new theoretical basis for pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlan Shan
- Department of Surgery, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiuping Mo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingpei Long
- Department of Surgery, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yangfan Fan
- Department of Surgery, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiyong Liu
- Sino-America Cancer Foundation, California Cancer Institute, Temple City, CA91780, USA; Tumor Biomarker Development, California Cancer Institute, Temple City, CA,91780, USA
| | - Xiaochen Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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12
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Li Y, Gao X, Yang C, Yan H, Li C. CircRNA hsa_circ_0018289 exerts an oncogenic role in cervical cancer progression through miR‐1294/ICMT axis. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24348. [PMID: 35312113 PMCID: PMC9102762 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Li
- Department of Gynaecology Linyi Central Hospital Linyi China
| | - Xiangrong Gao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics Juye County People’s Hospital Heze China
| | - Chaochao Yang
- Department of General Practice Linyi Central Hospital Linyi China
| | - Hua Yan
- Department of Gynaecology Linyi Central Hospital Linyi China
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Gynaecology Linyi Central Hospital Linyi China
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Teng X, Liu Y, Wang L, Wang G. Lidocaine exerts anticancer activity in bladder cancer by targeting isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase ( ICMT). Transl Androl Urol 2022; 10:4219-4230. [PMID: 34984187 PMCID: PMC8661257 DOI: 10.21037/tau-21-893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors among humans and has a high mortality. Clinically, lidocaine is the most commonly used local anesthetic, which can inhibit the proliferation of bladder cancer cells; however, its downstream specific molecular mechanisms are unclear. Methods The SwissTarget and TargetNet databases were used to analyze the target of lidocaine. The online public cancer transcriptome database UALCAN was used to analyze the up-regulated genes in The Cancer Genome Atlas Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma (TCGA-BLCA) data collection, and the intersection of the 2 was used to obtain the core target. The only target, isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT), was obtained by combining the correlation between the target and the clinical information of bladder cancer and the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival curve. Then, UMUC3 and T24 cells were selected as research vectors in vitro. Cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis were detected by cell counting kit-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, and western blotting. Results Network pharmacology analysis showed that ICMT might be one of the targets of lidocaine, and the expression level of ICMT was closely related to the clinical phenotype of bladder cancer. Lidocaine treatment (4 and 8 mM) significantly inhibited the proliferation of UMUC3 and T24 cells, promoted apoptosis, and significantly inhibited the mass and volume of xenograft tumors. In vitro experiments showed that ICMT promoted the proliferation of UMUC3 and T24 cells. Lidocaine inhibited the expression of ICMT in UMUC3 and T24 cells in a concentration and time-dependent manner, and inhibited cell proliferation by down-regulating ICMT expression. Conclusions Lidocaine exerts anti-tumor effect by down-regulating the expression of ICMT in bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Teng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Guonian Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
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14
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Isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase promotes the progression of tongue squamous cell carcinoma via the K-Ras and RhoA signaling pathways. Arch Oral Biol 2021; 134:105320. [PMID: 34875442 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2021.105320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This research investigated the biological role of isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase (ICMT) in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) progression meanwhile to explore the conceivable mechanism. METHODS The mRNA and protein expression were measured using real-time PCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, cycle distribution, migration and invasion were evaluated by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, wound-healing assay and transwell assay. The anti-tumor activity of ICMT silencing was observed in nude mice. RESULTS Our results indicated that silencing of ICMT-mediated methylation effectively inhibited TSCC cells proliferation in vitro and reduced tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, ICMT knockdown also induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of both CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells. In addition, CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells migration and invasion were weakened by ICMT siRNA. Mechanistically, ICMT deficiency significantly decreased the K-Ras and RhoA membrane targeting localization, leading to the suppression of K-Ras- and RhoA-mediated downstream signaling in CAL-27 and SCC-4 cells. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our findings identified a crucial role played by ICMT in the progression of TSCC and the potential mechanisms by which exerted its effects, indicating that targeting ICMT may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for TSCC.
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15
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Xu Y, Liu J, Jiang T, Shi L, Shang L, Song J, Li L. PDRG1 predicts a poor prognosis and facilitates the proliferation and metastasis of colorectal cancer. Exp Cell Res 2021; 409:112924. [PMID: 34780783 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing yearly and CRC patients are becoming younger in global. Evidences have revealed the carcinogenic effect of p53 and DNA damage-regulated gene 1 (PDRG1) in several types of tumors. However, its biological function is yet to be investigated in CRC. This study aimed to unveil the prooncogenic role of PDRG1 in CRC. METHODS We detected the expression and clinical pathological features of PDRG1 in CRC tissues and paired non-tumor adjacent tissues. The biological role and molecular mechanism of PDRG1 in CRC were characterized through a range of in vitro and in vivo experiments and datasets analysis. RESULT We identified the significant up-regulated expression of PDRG1 both in CRC tissues and cell, and higher expression of PDRG1 was associated with worse clinicopathological stage and poorer survival outcome. Cox regression analysis revealed that PDRG1 is an independent prognostic factor for CRC patients. Silencing of PDRG1 significantly retarded CRC cell vitality, invasion and migration, induced cell apoptosis and G0/G1 phase arrest. PDRG1 knockdown also attenuated tumor growth and metastasis as evidencing in vivo experiment. The expression of p21 and apoptosis related protein was enhanced with the knockdown of PDRG1 while cell cycle protein was inhibited. CONCLUSION PDRG1 function as a novel oncogene and participate in malignant progression of CRC by regulating p21-mediated signal pathway, suggesting that it can serve as a valuable predictive biomarker for diagnosing of CRC patient and a promising target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Xu
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China; Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Digestive Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Digestive Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Linsen Shi
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Digestive Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liang Shang
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China; Department of Digestive Tumor Translational Medicine, Engineering Laboratory of Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Jun Song
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Digestive Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Leping Li
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China; Department of Digestive Tumor Translational Medicine, Engineering Laboratory of Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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16
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Tang J, Casey PJ, Wang M. Suppression of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase compromises DNA damage repair. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:4/12/e202101144. [PMID: 34610973 PMCID: PMC8500237 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase reduces cancer cells’ ability to repair DNA damage by suppressing the expression of critical DNA damage repair pathway genes, hence increasing their vulnerability to DNA damaging insults such as PARP inhibitors and other DNA damage agents. DNA damage is a double-edged sword for cancer cells. On the one hand, DNA damage–induced genomic instability contributes to cancer development; on the other hand, accumulating damage compromises proliferation and survival of cancer cells. Understanding the key regulators of DNA damage repair machinery would benefit the development of cancer therapies that induce DNA damage and apoptosis. In this study, we found that isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT), a posttranslational modification enzyme, plays an important role in DNA damage repair. We found that ICMT suppression consistently reduces the activity of MAPK signaling, which compromises the expression of key proteins in the DNA damage repair machinery. The ensuing accumulation of DNA damage leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in multiple breast cancer cells. Interestingly, these observations are more pronounced in cells grown under anchorage-independent conditions or grown in vivo. Consistent with the negative impact on DNA repair, ICMT inhibition transforms the cancer cells into a “BRCA-like” state, hence sensitizing cancer cells to the treatment of PARP inhibitor and other DNA damage–inducing agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Tang
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Program in Cancer and Stem Cell, Singapore, Singapore .,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596
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Tang D, Kroemer G, Kang R. Oncogenic KRAS blockade therapy: renewed enthusiasm and persistent challenges. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:128. [PMID: 34607583 PMCID: PMC8489073 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01422-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Across a broad range of human cancers, gain-of-function mutations in RAS genes (HRAS, NRAS, and KRAS) lead to constitutive activity of oncoproteins responsible for tumorigenesis and cancer progression. The targeting of RAS with drugs is challenging because RAS lacks classic and tractable drug binding sites. Over the past 30 years, this perception has led to the pursuit of indirect routes for targeting RAS expression, processing, upstream regulators, or downstream effectors. After the discovery that the KRAS-G12C variant contains a druggable pocket below the switch-II loop region, it has become possible to design irreversible covalent inhibitors for the variant with improved potency, selectivity and bioavailability. Two such inhibitors, sotorasib (AMG 510) and adagrasib (MRTX849), were recently evaluated in phase I-III trials for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer with KRAS-G12C mutations, heralding a new era of precision oncology. In this review, we outline the mutations and functions of KRAS in human tumors and then analyze indirect and direct approaches to shut down the oncogenic KRAS network. Specifically, we discuss the mechanistic principles, clinical features, and strategies for overcoming primary or secondary resistance to KRAS-G12C blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daolin Tang
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1138, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France. .,Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France. .,Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France.
| | - Rui Kang
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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Jia Y, Li HY, Wang Y, Wang J, Zhu JW, Wei YY, Lou L, Chen X, Mo SJ. Crosstalk between hypoxia-sensing ULK1/2 and YAP-driven glycolysis fuels pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma development. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2772-2794. [PMID: 34345207 PMCID: PMC8326115 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.60018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy and glycolysis are two catabolic processes that manipulate pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development in response to hypoxia sensing, yet the underlying mechanism of how they are interlinked remain elusive. Methods: The functional roles of Unc-51 like kinase 1 and 2 (ULK1/2) in pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) transcription and glycolysis under hypoxia were assessed by chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter, glucose consumption and lactate production assay. Co-immunoprecipitation, cellular ubiquitination, His-pulldown, in vitro protein kinase assay, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, CRISPR technology, in silico studies were adopted to determine the molecular mechanism. Correlation analyses were performed in KPC (Pdx1-Cre; LSL-KrasG12D/+; Trp53fl/+) mice and clinical samples from PDAC patients. Therapeutic potential of ULK1/2 inhibitor and 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) or 3-bromopyruvate (3-BP) was evaluated in cell-derived xenograft (CDX) and the patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of nude mice. Results: ULK1/2, but not ULK3, augments hypoxic glycolysis in PDAC cells mediated by PKM2 independent of BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3). Mechanistically, hypoxia stimulates ULK1 to translocate into nucleus, where it interacts with and phosphorylates yes-associated protein (YAP) at Ser227, resulting in YAP stabilization through blockade of ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), which in turn facilitates PKM2 transcription, glycolysis, cell proliferation in vitro as well as PDAC growth in mice. ULK1/2 is positively correlated with YAP and PKM2 in tumor tissues from KPC mice and clinical samples from PDAC patients. Pharmacological deactivation of ULK1/2 potentiates the antineoplastic efficacy of 2-DG and 3-BP in CDX and PDX models. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the Ser227 autophosphorylation-dependent nuclear YAP stabilization as a central node that couples ULK1/2-initiated autophagy to hypoxic glycolysis during PDAC development and propose that targeting ULK1/2 combined with 2-DG or 3-BP might be a feasible therapeutic strategy against PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jia
- Cancer Research Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Hui-Yan Li
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, P.R.China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Jing-Wen Zhu
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Yan-Yan Wei
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Lu Lou
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Xing Chen
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
| | - Shi-Jing Mo
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, P.R.China
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Sun X, Yan H. MicroRNA-99a-5p suppresses cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase in oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:300060520939031. [PMID: 34038200 PMCID: PMC8161884 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520939031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNA (miR)-99a-5p acts as a tumor suppressor in several tumors, including bladder cancer and breast cancer, but its biological function in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is poorly understood. METHODS miR-99a-5p expression was determined in OSCC tissues and cell lines using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell proliferation was assessed by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and colony formation assay. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to analyze migration and invasion abilities, respectively, in OSCC cells. The luciferase reporter assay, RT-qPCR, and western blotting were used to determine the relationship between miR-99a-5p and isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT). RESULTS miR-99a-5p expression in OSCC tissues and cell lines was significantly decreased compared with corresponding controls, and was significantly associated with clinical stage and lymph node metastasis in OSCC. Functional assays revealed that miR-99a-5p overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of CAL-27 and TCA-8113 OSCC cells. miR-99a-5p was found to directly target ICMT, while ICMT restoration reversed the role of miR-99a-5p in OSCC cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that miR-99a-5p-mediates the down-regulation of ICMT, which could be used as a novel potential therapeutic target for OSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Sun
- Department of Stomatology, Yulin First Hospital, Yulin, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Huixin Yan
- Department of Stomatology, Yan'an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yan'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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Wang SR, Sun W, Zhou N, Zhao K, Li WJ, Chi ZP, Wang Y, Wang QM, Tong L, He ZX, Han HY, Chen ZG. Effects of isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransferase silencing on the proliferation and apoptosis of tongue squamous cell carcinoma. HUA XI KOU QIANG YI XUE ZA ZHI = HUAXI KOUQIANG YIXUE ZAZHI = WEST CHINA JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY 2021; 39:64-73. [PMID: 33723939 DOI: 10.7518/hxkq.2021.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the effects of silencing isoprenylcysteine carboxyl methyltransfe-rase (Icmt) through small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference on the proliferation and apoptosis of tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). METHODS Three siRNA were designed and constructed for the Icmt gene sequence and were then transfected into TSCC cells CAL-27 and SCC-4 to silence Icmt expression. The tested cells were divided as follows: RNA interference groups Icmt-siRNA-1, Icmt-siRNA-2, and Icmt-siRNA-3, negative control group, and blank control group. The transfection efficiency of siRNA was detected by the fluorescent group Cy3-labeled siRNA, and the expression of Icmt mRNA was screened by quantitive real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) selected the experimental group for subsequent experiments. The expression of Icmt, RhoA, Cyclin D1, p21, extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK), and phospho-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK) were analyzed by Western blot. The proliferation abilities of TSCC cells were determined by cell counting kit-8 assay. The change in apoptosis was detected by AnnexinV-APC/propidium staining (PI) assay. Cell-cycle analysis was conducted by flow cytometry. RESULTS The expression of Icmt mRNA and protein in TSCC cells significantly decreased after Icmt-siRNA transfection (P<0.05). No significant difference in RhoA mRNA and protein expression was detected (P>0.05), but the expression of RhoA membrane protein decreased compared with the negative control group and blank control groups (P<0.05). Cyclin D1 expression decreased, whereas p21 expression significantly increased and the relative expression of ERK protein in the experimental group did not significantly different that in the control group (P>0.05). However, the phosphorylation level of ERK was significantly reduced (P<0.05). The cell cycles of TSCC CAL-27 and SCC-4 were altered in G1/S, cell proliferation activity was inhibited, and apoptosis was induced (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Silencing Icmt can effectively downregulate its expression in TSCC cells, reduce the RhoA membrane targeting localization and cell proliferation, and induce apoptosis. Thus, Icmt may be a potential gene therapy target for TSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Ru Wang
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.,School of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Nan Zhou
- College of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261021, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Wen-Jian Li
- School of Stomatology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Zeng-Peng Chi
- College of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261021, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Dept. of Stomatology, Fourth People,s Hospital of Jinan, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Qi-Min Wang
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lei Tong
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zong-Xuan He
- Dept. of Oral and Maxillafacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266005, China
| | - Hong-Yu Han
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zheng-Gang Chen
- Dept. of Stomatology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
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Lau HY, Tang J, Casey PJ, Wang M. Evaluating the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Program in Human Breast Epithelial Cells Cultured in Soft Agar Using a Novel Macromolecule Extraction Protocol. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040807. [PMID: 33671920 PMCID: PMC7919038 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Anchorage-independent soft agar colony formation assays have been widely used as an in vitro surrogate for in vivo tumour formation in xenograft studies, and has found much utility in studies such as cancer drug development. However, molecular characterisation of cells grown in soft agar has proven difficult and sometimes even impossible. We developed a set of new methods that allow DNA, RNA and proteins (including phosphoproteins) to be extracted from cells grown in soft agar, even without visible colony formation. We used these methods to demonstrate the role of the epithelial-mesenchymal program in the malignant transformation of a classical human mammary epithelial cell model. Abstract The ability to grow in anchorage-independent conditions is an important feature of malignant cells, and it is well-established that cellular phenotypes in adherent cultures can differ widely from phenotypes observed in xenografts and anchorage-independent conditions. The anchorage-independent soft-agar colony formation assay has been widely used as a bridge between adherent cell cultures and animal tumor studies, providing a reliable in vitro tool to predict the tumorigenicity of cancer cells. However, this functional assay is limited in its utility for molecular mechanistic studies, as currently there is no reliable method that allows the extraction of biological macromolecules from cells embedded in soft-agar matrices, especially in experimental conditions where no visible colonies form. We developed a set of new methods that enable the extraction of DNA, RNA and proteins directly from cells embedded in soft agar, allowing for a wide range of molecular signaling analysis. Using the new methods and human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs), we studied the role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the ability of HMECs to form colonies in soft agar. We found that, when cultured in soft agar instead of in adherent cultures, immortalized non-malignant HME-hTERT cells upregulated the epithelial program, which was noted to be necessary for their survival in this anchorage-independent condition. Overexpression of SV40 small T antigen (ST) or the EMT master-regulator SNAI1 negates this requirement and significantly enhances colony formation in soft agar driven by mutant-RAS. Interestingly, we found that, similar to SNAI1, ST also promotes EMT changes in HMECs, providing further support for EMT as a prerequisite for the efficient anchorage-independent colony formation driven by mutant-RAS in our HMEC model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yeung Lau
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Jingyi Tang
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Patrick J. Casey
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
| | - Mei Wang
- Programme in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (H.Y.L.); (J.T.); (P.J.C.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-6516-8608
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Gene Expression Alterations Associated with Oleuropein-Induced Antiproliferative Effects and S-Phase Cell Cycle Arrest in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12123755. [PMID: 33297339 PMCID: PMC7762327 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is known that the Mediterranean diet is effective in reducing the risk of several chronic diseases, including cancer. A critical component of the Mediterranean diet is olive oil, and the relationship between olive oil consumption and the reduced risk of cancer has been established. Oleuropein (OL) is the most prominent polyphenol component of olive fruits and leaves. This compound has been shown to have potent properties in various types of cancers, including breast cancer. In the present study, the molecular mechanism of OL was examined in two racially different triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines-African American (AA, MDA-MB-468) and Caucasian American (CA, MDA-MB-231). The data obtained showed that OL effectively inhibits cell growth in both cell lines, concomitant with S-phase cell cycle arrest-mediated apoptosis. The results also showed that OL-treated MDA-MB-468 cells were two-fold more sensitive to OL antiproliferative effect than MDA-MB-231 cells were. At lower concentrations, OL modified the expression of many apoptosis-involved genes. OL was more effective in MDA-MB-468, compared to MDA-MB-231 cells, in terms of the number and the fold-change of the altered genes. In MDA-MB-468 cells, OL induced a noticeable transcription activation in fourteen genes, including two members of the caspase family: caspase 1 (CASP1) and caspase 14 (CASP14); two members of the TNF receptor superfamily: Fas-associated via death domain (FADD) and TNF receptor superfamily 21 (TNFRSF21); six other proapoptotic genes: growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible 45 alpha (GADD45A), cytochrome c somatic (CYCS), BCL-2 interacting protein 2 (BNIP2), BCL-2 interacting protein 3 (BNIP3), BH3 interacting domain death agonist (BID), and B-cell lymphoma/leukemia 10 (BCL10); and the CASP8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulator (CFLAR) gene. Moreover, in MDA-MB-468 cells, OL induced a significant upregulation in two antiapoptotic genes: bifunctional apoptosis regulator (BFAR) and B-Raf proto-oncogene (BRAF) and a baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) repeat-containing 3 (BIRC3). On the contrary, in MDA-MB-231 cells, OL showed mixed impacts on gene expression. OL significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of four genes: BIRC3, receptor-interacting serine/threonine kinase 2 (RIPK2), TNF receptor superfamily 10A (TNFRSF10A), and caspase 4 (CASP4). Additionally, another four genes were repressed, including caspase 6 (CASP6), pyrin domain (PYD), and caspase recruitment domain (CARD)-containing (PAYCARD), baculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5 (BIRC5), and the most downregulated TNF receptor superfamily member 11B (TNFRSF11B, 16.34-fold). In conclusion, the data obtained indicate that the two cell lines were markedly different in the anticancer effect and mechanisms of oleuropein's ability to alter apoptosis-related gene expressions. The results obtained from this study should also guide the potential utilization of oleuropein as an adjunct therapy for TNBC to increase chemotherapy effectiveness and prevent cancer progression.
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Targeting KRAS mutant cancers by preventing signaling transduction in the MAPK pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 211:113006. [PMID: 33228976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
KRAS genes are the most commonly mutated oncogenes in cancer. Unfortunately, effective therapeutic strategies for targeting KRAS mutant cancers have proven to be difficult to obtain. A key reason for this setback is due to the lack of success direct KRAS mutant inhibitors have received. Researchers have turned their efforts away from targeting the KRAS nucleotide-binding site directly and towards targeting other areas of the MAPK signaling pathway to block KRAS function. Researchers found that inhibiting enzymes and protein-protein interactions involved in the MAPK signaling pathway inhibit the activation of KRAS mutant therefore can lead to a potential therapeutic for KRAS mutated cancers. Throughout the past two decades, various indirect inhibitors have been designed and tested. EGFR and MEK inhibitors have presented with less success; however, significant advances have been made when targeting the plasma membrane localization process and the allosteric site of KRAS mutant. Farnesyltransferase and allosteric inhibitors have both advanced to human clinical trials. This comprehensive review presents the most recent developments of direct and indirect KRAS mutant inhibitors. This review summarizes published data on the inhibitory and anti-cancer activity of compounds that target KRAS activation as well as highlights the most promising strategies for targeting KRAS mutant cancers.
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Abstract
Aberrations in rat sarcoma (RAS) viral oncogene are the most prevalent and best-known genetic alterations identified in human cancers. Indeed, RAS drives tumorigenesis as one of the downstream effectors of EGFR activation, regulating cellular switches and functions and triggering intracellular signaling cascades such as the MAPK and PI3K pathways. Of the three RAS isoforms expressed in human cells, all of which were linked to tumorigenesis more than three decades ago, KRAS is the most frequently mutated. In particular, point mutations in KRAS codon 12 are present in up to 80% of KRAS-mutant malignancies. Unfortunately, there are no approved KRAS-targeted agents, despite decades of research and development. Recently, a revolutionary strategy to use covalent allosteric inhibitors that target a shallow pocket on the KRAS surface has provided new impetus for renewed drug development efforts, specifically against KRASG12C. These inhibitors, such as AMG 510 and MRTX849, show promise in early-phase studies. Nevertheless, combination strategies that target resistance mechanisms have become vital in the war against KRAS-mutant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyaw Z Thein
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University/Knight Cancer Institute, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA;
| | - Amadeo B Biter
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; ,
| | - David S Hong
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; ,
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Zhou L, Sheng W, Jia C, Shi X, Cao R, Wang G, Lin Y, Zhu F, Dong Q, Dong M. Musashi2 promotes the progression of pancreatic cancer through a novel ISYNA1-p21/ZEB-1 pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:10560-10572. [PMID: 32779876 PMCID: PMC7521282 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies found overexpression of Musashi2 (MSI2) conduced to the progression and chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer (PC) by negative regulation of Numb and wild type p53 (wtp53). Now, we further investigated the novel signalling involved with MSI2 in PC. We identified inositol‐3‐phosphate synthase 1 (ISYNA1) as a novel tumour suppressor regulated by MSI2. High MSI2 and low ISYNA1 expression were prevalently observed in 91 PC tissues. ISYNA1 expression was negatively correlated with MSI2 expression, T stage, vascular permeation and poor prognosis in PC patients. What's more, patients expressed high MSI2 and low ISYNA1 level had a significant worse prognosis. And in wtp53 Capan‐2 and SW1990 cells, ISYNA1 was downregulated by p53 silencing. ISYNA1 silencing promoted cell proliferation and cell cycle by inhibiting p21 and enhanced cell migration and invasion by upregulating ZEB‐1. However, MSI2 silencing upregulated ISYNA1 and p21 but downregulated ZEB‐1, which can be rescued by ISYNA1 silencing. Moreover, reduction of cell migration and invasion resulting from MSI2 silencing was significantly reversed by ISYNA1 silencing. In summary, MSI2 facilitates the development of PC through a novel ISYNA1‐p21/ZEB‐1 pathway, which provides new gene target therapy for PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - WeiWei Sheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chao Jia
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaoyang Shi
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Rongxian Cao
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guosen Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yiheng Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fang Zhu
- Division of Cardiology, The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Qi Dong
- Department of General Surgery, The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Ming Dong
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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26
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Chai TF, Manu KA, Casey PJ, Wang M. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase is required for the impact of mutant KRAS on TAZ protein level and cancer cell self-renewal. Oncogene 2020; 39:5373-5389. [PMID: 32561852 PMCID: PMC7391290 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1364-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells possess the capacity for self-renewal and resistance to chemotherapy. It is therefore crucial to understand the molecular regulators of stemness in the quest to develop effective cancer therapies. TAZ is a transcription activator that promotes stem cell functions in post-development mammalian cells; suppression of TAZ activity reduces or eliminates cancer stemness in select cancers. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) is the unique enzyme of the last step of posttranslational prenylation processing pathway that modifies several oncogenic proteins, including RAS. We found that suppression of ICMT results in reduced self-renewal/stemness in KRAS-driven pancreatic and breast cancer cells. Silencing of ICMT led to significant reduction of TAZ protein levels and loss of self-renewal ability, which could be reversed by overexpressing mutant KRAS, demonstrating the functional impact of ICMT modification on the ability of KRAS to control TAZ stability and function. Contrary to expectation, YAP protein levels appear to be much less susceptible than TAZ to the regulation by ICMT and KRAS, and YAP is less consequential in regulating stemness characteristics in these cells. Further, we found that the ICMT-dependent KRAS regulation of TAZ was mediated through RAF, but not PI3K, signaling. Functionally, we demonstrate that a signaling cascade from ICMT modification of KRAS to TAZ protein stability supports cancer cell self-renewal abilities in both in vitro and in vivo settings. In addition, studies using the proof-of-concept small molecule inhibitors of ICMT confirmed its role in regulating TAZ and self-renewal, demonstrating the potential utility of targeting ICMT to control aggressive KRAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin Fan Chai
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore
| | - Kanjoormana Aryan Manu
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore. .,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore.
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Abstract
RAS (KRAS, NRAS and HRAS) is the most frequently mutated gene family in cancers, and, consequently, investigators have sought an effective RAS inhibitor for more than three decades. Even 10 years ago, RAS inhibitors were so elusive that RAS was termed 'undruggable'. Now, with the success of allele-specific covalent inhibitors against the most frequently mutated version of RAS in non-small-cell lung cancer, KRASG12C, we have the opportunity to evaluate the best therapeutic strategies to treat RAS-driven cancers. Mutation-specific biochemical properties, as well as the tissue of origin, are likely to affect the effectiveness of such treatments. Currently, direct inhibition of mutant RAS through allele-specific inhibitors provides the best therapeutic approach. Therapies that target RAS-activating pathways or RAS effector pathways could be combined with these direct RAS inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors or T cell-targeting approaches to treat RAS-mutant tumours. Here we review recent advances in therapies that target mutant RAS proteins and discuss the future challenges of these therapies, including combination strategies.
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Li X, Zhou S, Fan T, Feng X. lncRNA DGCR 5/miR‑27a‑3p/BNIP3 promotes cell apoptosis in pancreatic cancer by regulating the p38 MAPK pathway. Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:729-739. [PMID: 32626951 PMCID: PMC7307863 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non‑coding RNA (lncRNA) DGCR5 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in several types of cancer. However, its biological functions in pancreatic cancer (PaCa) have not yet been fully elucidated. The present study was designed to investigate the role of lncRNA DGCR5 in the regulation of PaCa cell apoptosis. For this purpose, lncRNA DGCR5, miR‑27a‑3p and Bcl‑2/adenovirus E1B‑19kDa‑interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) expression levels were examined by reverse transcription‑quantitative (RT‑qPCR) and western blot analysis, respectively. RNA pull‑down assay was used to verify DGCR5 as a target of miR‑27a‑3p and dual luciferase reporter assay was used to clarify whether miR‑27a‑3p targets the BNIP3 3' UTR. In addition, PaCa cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Recombinant plasmids and cell transfection were performed to modulate the endogenous expression of related genes. Thereafter, the role of DGCR5 in PaCa was analyzed using a nude mouse model of PaCa. lncRNA DGCR5 was found to be downregulated in PaCa tissues and cells. DGCR5 functioned as a decoy of miR‑27a‑3p, and BNIP3 was negatively regulated by miR‑27a‑3p. Following the transfection of DGCR5 plasmid into PaCa cells, the expression of miR‑27a‑3p was downregulated, and this downregulation was reversed following transfection with miR‑27a‑3p mimic. In addition, DGCR5 regulated the BNIP3 and p38 MAPK pathways via miR‑27a‑3p and promoted PaCa cell apoptosis via the miR‑27a‑3p/BNIP3 pathway. The results of in vivo experiments also indicated the positive effects of DGCR5 on a nude mouse model of PaCa. On the whole, the findings of the present study indicate that lncRNA DGCR5 upregulates the BNIP3 and p38 MAPK pathways via miR‑27a‑3p to promote PaCa cell apoptosis, thereby attenuating PaCa development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjie Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315020, P.R. China
| | - Shanxue Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315020, P.R. China
| | - Tianyi Fan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315020, P.R. China
| | - Xuefeng Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315020, P.R. China
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29
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Fu T, Liang A, Liu Y. [Role of P21 in Resistance of Lung Cancer]. ZHONGGUO FEI AI ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF LUNG CANCER 2020; 23:597-602. [PMID: 32434295 PMCID: PMC7406443 DOI: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2020.101.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common malignant tumor in the world with the highest incidence of deaths. In recent years, the treatment of lung cancer has made a significant breakthrough. However, as the tumor progresses, lung cancer cells inevitably acquire resistance and the efficacy of the treatment are greatly reduced. P21 protein plays a dual role in tumors, which not only regulates the cell cycle, induces apoptosis, inhibits cell proliferation, but also protects cells against apoptosis and promotes tumor cell resistance. This article reviews the research on P21 and lung cancer resistance, to provide new ideas for individualized treatment of lung cancer and overcoming lung cancer resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Fu
- Medical Molecular Diagnostics Key Laboratory of Guangdong, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Department of Clinical Biochemistry in Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Ailing Liang
- Medical Molecular Diagnostics Key Laboratory of Guangdong, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory Biochemistry of Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yongjun Liu
- Medical Molecular Diagnostics Key Laboratory of Guangdong, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Department of Clinical Biochemistry in Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
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30
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Nagasaka M, Li Y, Sukari A, Ou SHI, Al-Hallak MN, Azmi AS. KRAS G12C Game of Thrones, which direct KRAS inhibitor will claim the iron throne? Cancer Treat Rev 2020; 84:101974. [PMID: 32014824 PMCID: PMC7041424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2020.101974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) are among the most common aberrations in cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The lack of an ideal small molecule binding pocket in the KRAS protein and its high affinity towards the abundance of cellular guanosine triphosphate (GTP) renders the design of specific small molecule drugs challenging. Despite efforts, KRAS remains a challenging therapeutic target. Among the different known mutations; the KRASG12C (glycine 12 to cysteine) mutation has been considered potentially druggable. Several novel covalent direct inhibitors targeting KRASG12C with similar covalent binding mechanisms are now in clinical trials. Both AMG 510 from Amgen and MRTX849 from Mirati Therapeutics covalently binds to KRASG12C at the cysteine at residue 12, keeping KRASG12C in its inactive GDP-bound state and inhibiting KRAS-dependent signaling. Both inhibitors are being studied as a single agent or as combination with other targets. In addition, two novel KRAS G12C inhibitors JNJ-74699157 and LY3499446 will have entered phase 1 studies by the end of 2019. Given the rapid clinical development of 4 direct covalent KRAS G12C inhibitors within a short period of time, understanding the similarities and differences among these will be important to determine the best treatment option based on tumor specific response (NSCLC versus colorectal carcinoma), potential resistance mechanisms (i.e. anticipated acquired mutation at the cysteine 12 residue) and central nervous system (CNS) activity. Additionally, further investigation evaluating the efficacy and safety of combination therapies with agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors will be important next steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misako Nagasaka
- Karmanos Cancer Institute Wayne State University, Detroit MI, USA; St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan.
| | - Yiwei Li
- Karmanos Cancer Institute Wayne State University, Detroit MI, USA; Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit MI, USA.
| | - Ammar Sukari
- Karmanos Cancer Institute Wayne State University, Detroit MI, USA.
| | - Sai-Hong Ignatius Ou
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Orange, CA, USA.
| | | | - Asfar S Azmi
- Karmanos Cancer Institute Wayne State University, Detroit MI, USA; Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit MI, USA.
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31
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Degirmenci U, Wang M, Hu J. Targeting Aberrant RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK Signaling for Cancer Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E198. [PMID: 31941155 PMCID: PMC7017232 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signaling cascade is essential for cell inter- and intra-cellular communication, which regulates fundamental cell functions such as growth, survival, and differentiation. The MAPK pathway also integrates signals from complex intracellular networks in performing cellular functions. Despite the initial discovery of the core elements of the MAPK pathways nearly four decades ago, additional findings continue to make a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of this pathway challenging. Considerable effort has been focused on the regulation of RAF, especially after the discovery of drug resistance and paradoxical activation upon inhibitor binding to the kinase. RAF activity is regulated by phosphorylation and conformation-dependent regulation, including auto-inhibition and dimerization. In this review, we summarize the recent major findings in the study of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling cascade, particularly with respect to the impact on clinical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk Degirmenci
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
| | - Mei Wang
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Jiancheng Hu
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Crescent, Singapore 169610, Singapore
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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32
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Cells deficient for Krüppel-like factor 4 exhibit mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired mitophagy. Eur J Cell Biol 2020; 99:151061. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2019.151061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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Xu J, Zhu Y, Wang F, Zhou Y, Xia G, Xu W. ICMT contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma growth, survival, migration and chemoresistance via multiple oncogenic pathways. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 518:584-589. [PMID: 31451223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.08.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (Icmt) which catalyzes the final step of prenylation of many oncoproteins, such as Ras. Despite studies on Icmt and its regulation in biological activities of various cancers, little is known on the expression, function and mechanisms of the impact of Icmt on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We report here the findings that Icmt is critical for HCC growth, migration, survival and chemoresistance by multiple oncogenic pathways. Expression analysis on primary patient and cell line samples demonstrated that Icmt protein level was significantly higher in the majority (∼70%) of HCC tissues and cells than corresponding normal counterparts. Icmt depletion inhibited growth, survival and migration in HCC cells, and augmented the inhibitory effects of doxorubicin. Consistently, Icmt also inhibited growth, and migration, and induced apoptosis in HCC cells that are resistant to doxorubicin. In contrast, Icmt overexpression promoted growth and migration in normal liver cells. Mechanistically, Icmt inhibition suppressed Ras/Raf/Mek/Erk signaling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC cells. Several different approaches demonstrated that Icmt was critical for HCC biological activities with the predominant role in cell response to chemotherapy. This previously unappreciated function of Icmt can be targeted to enhance chemotherapy in particular those HCC patients with high Icmt expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianguo Xu
- Department of Liver Disease Center, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Information Management Section, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei province, China
| | - Guili Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Manu KA, Cao PHA, Chai TF, Casey PJ, Wang M. p21cip1/waf1 Coordinate Autophagy, Proliferation and Apoptosis in Response to Metabolic Stress. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081112. [PMID: 31382612 PMCID: PMC6721591 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells possess metabolic properties that are different from benign cells. These unique characteristics have become attractive targets that are being actively investigated for cancer therapy. p21cip1/waf1, also known as Cyclin-Dependent Kinase inhibitor 1A, is encoded by the CDKN1A gene. It is a major p53 target gene involved in cell cycle progression that has been extensively evaluated. To date, p21 has been reported to regulate various cell functions, both dependent and independent of p53. Besides regulating the cell cycle, p21 also modulates apoptosis, induces senescence, and maintains cellular quiescence in response to various stimuli. p21 transcription is induced in response to stresses, including those from oxidative and chemotherapeutic treatment. A recent study has shown that in response to metabolic stresses such as nutrient and energy depletion, p21 expression is induced to regulate various cell functions. Despite the biological significance, the mechanism of p21 regulation in cancer adaptation to metabolic stress is underexplored and thus represents an exciting field. This review focuses on the recent development of p21 regulation in response to metabolic stress and its impact in inducing cell cycle arrest and death in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanjoormana Aryan Manu
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Pham Hong Anh Cao
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Tin Fan Chai
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Patrick J Casey
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore.
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35
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Marín-Ramos NI, Balabasquer M, Ortega-Nogales FJ, Torrecillas IR, Gil-Ordóñez A, Marcos-Ramiro B, Aguilar-Garrido P, Cushman I, Romero A, Medrano FJ, Gajate C, Mollinedo F, Philips MR, Campillo M, Gallardo M, Martín-Fontecha M, López-Rodríguez ML, Ortega-Gutiérrez S. A Potent Isoprenylcysteine Carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) Inhibitor Improves Survival in Ras-Driven Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Med Chem 2019; 62:6035-6046. [PMID: 31181882 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Blockade of Ras activity by inhibiting its post-translational methylation catalyzed by isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) has been suggested as a promising antitumor strategy. However, the paucity of inhibitors has precluded the clinical validation of this approach. In this work we report a potent ICMT inhibitor, compound 3 [UCM-1336, IC50 = 2 μM], which is selective against the other enzymes involved in the post-translational modifications of Ras. Compound 3 significantly impairs the membrane association of the four Ras isoforms, leading to a decrease of Ras activity and to inhibition of Ras downstream signaling pathways. In addition, it induces cell death in a variety of Ras-mutated tumor cell lines and increases survival in an in vivo model of acute myeloid leukemia. Because ICMT inhibition impairs the activity of the four Ras isoforms regardless of its activating mutation, compound 3 surmounts many of the common limitations of available Ras inhibitors described so far. In addition, these results validate ICMT as a valuable target for the treatment of Ras-driven tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagore I Marín-Ramos
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain.,CEI Campus Moncloa , UCM-UPM and CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Moisés Balabasquer
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Francisco J Ortega-Nogales
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Iván R Torrecillas
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina , Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona , E-08193 Bellaterra , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Ana Gil-Ordóñez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Beatriz Marcos-Ramiro
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Pedro Aguilar-Garrido
- H12O-CNIO Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit , Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) , E-28029 Madrid , Spain
| | - Ian Cushman
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology , Duke University Medical Center , Durham , North Carolina 27710 , United States
| | - Antonio Romero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | | | - Consuelo Gajate
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | | | - Mark R Philips
- Perlmutter Cancer Center , New York University School of Medicine , New York , New York 10016 , United States
| | - Mercedes Campillo
- Laboratori de Medicina Computacional, Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina , Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona , E-08193 Bellaterra , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Miguel Gallardo
- H12O-CNIO Haematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit , Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO) , E-28029 Madrid , Spain
| | - Mar Martín-Fontecha
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - María L López-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , E-28040 Madrid , Spain
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Zhang B, Meng M, Xiang S, Cao Z, Xu X, Zhao Z, Zhang T, Chen B, Yang P, Li Y, Zhou Q. Selective activation of tumor-suppressive MAPKP signaling pathway by triptonide effectively inhibits pancreatic cancer cell tumorigenicity and tumor growth. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 166:70-81. [PMID: 31075266 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK, 1K) family members ERK, JNK, and p38 play a divergent role in either promoting tumorigenesis or tumor-suppression. Activation of ERK and JNK promotes tumorigenesis; whereas, escalation of p38 inhibits carcinogenesis. As these three MAPK members are controlled by the common up-stream MAPK signaling proteins which consist of MAPK kinases (2K) and MAPK kinase kinases (3K), how to selectively actuate tumor-suppressive p38, not concurrently stimulate tumorigenic ERK and JNK, in cancer cells is a challenge for cancer researchers, and a new opportunity for novel anti-cancer drug discovery. Using human pancreatic cancer cells and xenograft mice as models, we found that a small molecule triptonide first discerningly activated the up-stream MAPK kinase kinase MEKK4, not the other two 3K members ASK1 and GADD45; and then selectively actuated the middle stream MAPK kinase MKK4, not the other two 2K members MKK3 and MKK6; and followed by activation of the MAPK member p38, not the other two members ERK and JNK. These data suggest that triptonide is a selective MEKK4-MKK4-p38 axis agonist. Consequently, selective activation of the MEKK4-MKK4-p38 signaling axis by triptonide activated tumor suppressor p21 and inhibited CDK3 expression, resulting in cancer cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and marked inhibition of pancreatic cancer cell tumorigenic capability in vitro and tumor growth in xenograft mice. Our findings support the notion that selective activation of tumor-suppressive MEKK4-MKK4-p38-p21signaling pathway by triptonide is a new approach for pancreatic cancer therapy, providing a new drug candidate for development of novel anti-cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Mei Meng
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Shufen Xiang
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Zhifei Cao
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Xingdong Xu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Bowen Chen
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Ping Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226000, PR China
| | - Ye Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Quansheng Zhou
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China.
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Kim Y, Kim KH, Lee IS, Park JY, Na YC, Chung WS, Jang HJ. Apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest induced by a timosaponin A3 from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge on AsPC-1 pancreatic cancer cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 56:48-56. [PMID: 30668353 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timosaponin A3 (TA3), one of the active components of spirostanol saponin isolated from A. asphodeloides, is widely used as an anticancer agent in a variety of cancer cell lines. However, the research on the anticancer efficacy is very limited in human pancreatic cancer models. PURPOSE In this study, we investigated the molecular targets in the active components of A. asphodeloides, which showed anti-cancer effects in human pancreatic cancer cells, and confirmed the pathways involved. STUDY DESIGN The apoptotic effects of five solvent extracts of A. asphodeloides in human pancreatic cancer cells (AsPC-1) was studied, and the phytochemical leading to their effects identified. Next, we determined whether the phytochemical inhibit STAT3 and ERK1/2, and investigated the pathways involved. METHODS Five solvent extracts of A. asphodeloides (100 µg/ml, 24 h) was investigated for their cytotoxicity against AsPC-1 cells. The active ingredient of the extract exhibiting the highest toxicity were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Next, we studied the mechanism of action of the phytochemical in pancreatic cancer. Cell cycle and annexin V/FITC assays were performed to assess cell growth and apoptosis capacity. The effects on apoptosis and proliferation-related pathways, STAT3, and MAPKs were confirmed at the protein level using immunoblotting. The factors regulated in the pathways were investigated using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The results showed that the ethyl acetate extract of A. asphodeloides (EAA) induced apoptotic and anti-proliferative activities through the STAT3 and MAPKs pathways. We found that TA3, an active component of EAA, inhibits constitutive STAT3 and ERK1/2 proteins. EAA and TA3 decreased the viability of AsPC-1 cells, leading to cell cycle arrest at the sub-G1 and G2/M phases. Moreover, TA3 inhibited the expression of various genes encoding anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2, Bcl-xl), proliferative (Cyclin D1), metastatic (MMP-9), and angiogenic (VEGF-1) proteins. CONCLUSION The results indicated that TA3, an active phytochemical from A. asphodeloides, could induce apoptosis and suppress cell proliferation by inhibiting the STAT3 and ERK1/2 pathways. Thus, TA3 is a candidate cancer chemotherapeutic agent instead to treat human pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kang-Hoon Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Seung Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Young Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Cheol Na
- Western Seoul Center, Korea Basic Science Institute 150 Bugahyeon-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu, 03759, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Seok Chung
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyeung-Jin Jang
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Ahearn I, Zhou M, Philips MR. Posttranslational Modifications of RAS Proteins. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2018; 8:cshperspect.a031484. [PMID: 29311131 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a031484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The three human RAS genes encode four proteins that play central roles in oncogenesis by acting as binary molecular switches that regulate signaling pathways for growth and differentiation. Each is subject to a set of posttranslational modifications (PTMs) that modify their activity or are required for membrane targeting. The enzymes that catalyze the various PTMs are potential targets for anti-RAS drug discovery. The PTMs of RAS proteins are the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Ahearn
- Department of Medicine, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Mo Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Mark R Philips
- Department of Medicine, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
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Hou PF, Jiang T, Chen F, Shi PC, Li HQ, Bai J, Song J. KIF4A facilitates cell proliferation via induction of p21-mediated cell cycle progression and promotes metastasis in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:477. [PMID: 29706624 PMCID: PMC5924760 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0550-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Kinesin family member 4A (KIF4A) was found to be implicated in the regulation of chromosome condensation and segregation during mitotic cell division, which is essential for eukaryotic cell proliferation. However, little is known about the role of KIF4A in colorectal carcinoma (CRC). This study explored the biological function of KIF4A in CRC progression and investigated the potential molecular mechanisms involved. Here, we found that KIF4A was remarkably upregulated in primary CRC tissues and cell lines compared with paired non-cancerous tissues and normal colorectal epithelium. Elevated expression of KIF4A in CRC tissues was significantly correlated with clinicopathological characteristics in patients as well as with shorter overall and disease-free cumulative survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that KIF4A was an independent prognostic factor for poor survival in human CRC patients. Functional assays, including a CCK-8 cell proliferation assay, colony formation analysis, cancer xenografts in nude mice, cell cycle and apoptosis analysis, indicated that KIF4A obviously enhanced cell proliferation by promoting cell cycle progression in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis, Luciferase reporter assays, and ChIP assays revealed that KIF4A facilitates cell proliferation via regulating the p21 promoter, whereas KIF4A had no effect on cell apoptosis. In addition, Transwell analysis indicated that KIF4A promotes migration and invasion in CRC. Taken together, these findings not only demonstrate that KIF4A contributes to CRC proliferation via modulation of p21-mediated cell cycle progression but also suggest the potential value of KIF4A as a clinical prognostic marker and target for molecular treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Fu Hou
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.,Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.,Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.,Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China
| | - Pei-Cong Shi
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.,Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hai-Qing Li
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.,Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jin Bai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China. .,Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.
| | - Jun Song
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China. .,Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 221002, Xuzhou, China.
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Lee CC, Hsieh TS. Wuho/WDR4 deficiency inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis via DNA damage in mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Cell Signal 2018; 47:16-26. [PMID: 29574139 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Wuho known as WDR4 encodes a highly conserved WD40-repeat protein, which has known homologues of WDR4 in human and mouse. Wuho-FEN1 interaction may have a critical role in the growth and development, and in the maintenance of genome stability. However, how Wuho gene deletion contributes to cell growth inhibition and apoptosis is still unknown. We utilized CAGGCre-ER transgenic mice have a tamoxifen-inducible cre-mediated recombination cassette to prepare primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) with Wuho deficiency. We have demonstrated that Wuho deficiency would induces γH2AX protein level elevation, heterochromatin relaxation and DNA damage down-stream sequences, including p53 activation, caspase-mediated apoptotic pathway, and p21-mediated G2/M cell cycle arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Chiu Lee
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Sec. 2, Nangang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
| | - Tao-Shih Hsieh
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Sec. 2, Nangang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; Department of Biochemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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Lau HY, Wang M. Small change, big effect: Taking RAS by the tail through suppression of post-prenylation carboxylmethylation. Small GTPases 2017; 11:271-279. [PMID: 29261009 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2017.1415637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutant RAS isoforms are the most common oncogenes affecting human cancers. After decades of effort in developing drugs targeting oncogenic RAS-driven cancers, we are still charting an unclear path. Despite recent developments exemplified by KRAS (G12C) inhibitors, direct targeting of mutant RAS remains a difficult endeavor. Inhibiting RAS function by targeting its post-translational prenylation processing has remained an important approach, especially with recent progress on the study of isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT), the unique enzyme for the last step of prenylation processing of RAS isoforms and other substrates. Inhibition of ICMT has shown efficacy both in vitro and in vivo in RAS-mutant cancer models. We will discuss the roles of RAS family of proteins in human cancers and the impact of post-prenylation carboxylmethylation on RAS driven tumorigenesis. In addition, we will review what is known of the molecular and cellular impact of ICMT inhibition on cancer cells that underlie its anti-proliferative and pro-apoptosis efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yeung Lau
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore
| | - Mei Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore , Singapore
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Shi C, Cai Y, Li Y, Li Y, Hu N, Ma S, Hu S, Zhu P, Wang W, Zhou H. Yap promotes hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis and mobilization via governing cofilin/F-actin/lamellipodium axis by regulation of JNK/Bnip3/SERCA/CaMKII pathways. Redox Biol 2017; 14:59-71. [PMID: 28869833 PMCID: PMC5582718 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the increasingly important role of Hippo-Yap in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and progression, little insight is available at the time regarding the specifics interaction of Yap and cancer cells migration. Here, we identified the mechanism by which tumor-intrinsic Yap deletion resulted in HCC migratory inhibition. Yap was greatly upregulated in HCC and its expression promoted the cells migration. Functional studies found that knockdown of Yap induced JNK phosphorylation which closely bound to the Bnip3 promoter and contributed to Bnip3 expression. Higher Bnip3 employed excessive mitophagy leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and ATP shortage. The insufficient ATP inactivated SERCA and consequently triggered intracellular calcium overload. As the consequence of calcium oscillation, Ca/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases II (CaMKII) was signaled and subsequently inhibited cofilin activity via phosphorylated modification. The phosphorylated cofilin failed to manipulate F-actin polymerization and lamellipodium formation, resulting into the impairment of lamellipodium-based migration. Collectively, our results identified Hippo-Yap as the tumor promoter in hepatocellular carcinoma that mediated via activation of cofilin/F-actin/lamellipodium axis by limiting JNK-Bnip3-SERCA-CaMKII pathways, with potential application to HCC therapy involving cancer metastasis. Yap is upregulated in the hepatocellular carcinoma and promotes cancer cell migration. Loss of Yap impairs cell mobility via inhibiting cofilin/F-actin/lamellipodium by activation of JNK-Bnip3-SERCA-CaMKII. Loss of Yap enhances JNK phosphorylation which triggers Bnip3-required mitophagy. Excessive mitophagy induces mitochondrial energy disorder which blunts SERCA and causes calcium overload. The calcium overload drives CaMKII which inactivates cofilin, leading to F-actin degradation and lamellipodium collapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Cai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yongheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Oncology, PLA General Hospital Cancer Center, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Hu
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Sai Ma
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Shunying Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Pingjun Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weihu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China.
| | - Hao Zhou
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY 82071, USA; Department of Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Yin J, Ni B, Liao WG, Gao YQ. Hypoxia-induced apoptosis of mouse spermatocytes is mediated by HIF-1α through a death receptor pathway and a mitochondrial pathway. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:1146-1155. [PMID: 28444885 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia in vivo induces oligozoospermia, azoospermia, and degeneration of the germinal epithelium, but the underlying molecular mechanism of this induction is not fully clarified. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the death receptor pathway and the mitochondrial pathway in hypoxia-induced apoptosis of mouse GC-2spd (GC-2) cells and the relationship between HIF-1α and apoptosis of GC-2 cells induced by hypoxia. GC-2 cells were subjected to 1% oxygen for 48 hr. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, LDH, caspase-3/8/9 in the absence and presence of HIF-1α siRNA. The protein levels of apoptosis-related markers were determined by Western blot in the presence and absence of HIF-1α siRNA. Mitochondrial transmembrane potential change was observed by in situ JC-1 staining. Cell viability was assessed upon treatment of caspase-8 and 9 inhibitors. The results indicated that hypoxia at 1% oxygen for 48 hr induced apoptosis of GC-2 cells. A prolonged exposure of GC-2 cells to hypoxic conditions caused downregulation of c-FLIP, Dc R2 and Bcl-2 and upregulation of DR5 , TRAIL, Fas, p53, and Bax, with an overproduction of caspase-3/8/9. Moreover, hypoxia at this level had an effect on mitochondrial depolarization. In addition, specific inhibitors of caspase-8/9 partially suppressed hypoxia-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis, and the anti-apoptotic effects of the caspase inhibitors were additive. Of note, HIF-1α knockdown attenuated hypoxia and induced apoptosis of GC-2 cells. In conclusion, our data suggest that the death receptor pathway and mitochondrial pathway, which are likely mediated by HIF-1α, contribute to hypoxia-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yin
- Department of Pathophysiology and High Altitude Pathology/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environment Medicine (Third Military Medical University), Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Bing Ni
- Department of Pathophysiology and High Altitude Pathology/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environment Medicine (Third Military Medical University), Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Wei-Gong Liao
- Department of Pathophysiology and High Altitude Pathology/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environment Medicine (Third Military Medical University), Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yu-Qi Gao
- Institute of Medicine and Hygienic Equipment for High Altitude Region/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Environment Medicine (Third Military Medical University), Ministry of Education/Key Laboratory of High Altitude Medicine, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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Do MT, Chai TF, Casey PJ, Wang M. Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase function is essential for RAB4A-mediated integrin β3 recycling, cell migration and cancer metastasis. Oncogene 2017; 36:5757-5767. [PMID: 28604748 PMCID: PMC5658678 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Isoprenylcysteine carboxylmethyltransferase (ICMT) catalyzes the post-translational modification of RAB GTPases that contain C-terminal CXC motifs. However, the functional impact of this modification on RAB proteins has not been actively explored. We found that inhibition of ICMT significantly reduced cell migration in vitro and cancer invasion and metastasis in vivo. This role of ICMT was found to be mediated by RAB4A, an essential regulator of the fast recycling of integrin β3. Integrin β3 regulates cell polarity and migration when localized appropriately to the plasma membrane, thereby having an essential role in cancer metastasis. ICMT catalyzed carboxylmethylation is critical for RAB4A activation and interaction with effectors, its localization to endosomes and recycling vesicles, and hence important for RAB4A-dependent integrin β3 recycling to plasma membrane. These findings bring attention to the effects of C-terminal carboxylmethylation on RAB GTPases and provide a rationale for targeting ICMT in the treatment of metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Do
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - T F Chai
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - P J Casey
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - M Wang
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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