1
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An W, Hall C, Li J, Hung A, Wu J, Park J, Wang L, Bai XC, Choi E. Activation of the insulin receptor by insulin-like growth factor 2. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2609. [PMID: 38521788 PMCID: PMC10960814 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46990-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Insulin receptor (IR) controls growth and metabolism. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) has different binding properties on two IR isoforms, mimicking insulin's function. However, the molecular mechanism underlying IGF2-induced IR activation remains unclear. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of full-length human long isoform IR (IR-B) in both the inactive and IGF2-bound active states, and short isoform IR (IR-A) in the IGF2-bound active state. Under saturated IGF2 concentrations, both the IR-A and IR-B adopt predominantly asymmetric conformations with two or three IGF2s bound at site-1 and site-2, which differs from that insulin saturated IR forms an exclusively T-shaped symmetric conformation. IGF2 exhibits a relatively weak binding to IR site-2 compared to insulin, making it less potent in promoting full IR activation. Cell-based experiments validated the functional importance of IGF2 binding to two distinct binding sites in optimal IR signaling and trafficking. In the inactive state, the C-terminus of α-CT of IR-B contacts FnIII-2 domain of the same protomer, hindering its threading into the C-loop of IGF2, thus reducing the association rate of IGF2 with IR-B. Collectively, our studies demonstrate the activation mechanism of IR by IGF2 and reveal the molecular basis underlying the different affinity of IGF2 to IR-A and IR-B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong An
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Catherine Hall
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Albert Hung
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Jiayi Wu
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Junhee Park
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Liwei Wang
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Xiao-Chen Bai
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
| | - Eunhee Choi
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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2
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Szablewski L. Insulin Resistance: The Increased Risk of Cancers. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:998-1027. [PMID: 38392069 PMCID: PMC10888119 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31020075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Insulin resistance, also known as impaired insulin sensitivity, is the result of a decreased reaction of insulin signaling to blood glucose levels. This state is observed when muscle cells, adipose tissue, and liver cells, improperly respond to a particular concentration of insulin. Insulin resistance and related increased plasma insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) may cause metabolic impairments, which are pathological states observed in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Observations of cancer patients confirm that hyperinsulinemia is a major factor influencing obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Obesity and diabetes have been reported as risks of the initiation, progression, and metastasis of several cancers. However, both of the aforementioned pathologies may independently and additionally increase the cancer risk. The state of metabolic disorders observed in cancer patients is associated with poor outcomes of cancer treatment. For example, patients suffering from metabolic disorders have higher cancer recurrence rates and their overall survival is reduced. In these associations between insulin resistance and cancer risk, an overview of the various pathogenic mechanisms that play a role in the development of cancer is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leszek Szablewski
- Chair and Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5 Str., 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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3
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Scalia P, Marino IR, Asero S, Pandini G, Grimberg A, El-Deiry WS, Williams SJ. Autocrine IGF-II-Associated Cancers: From a Rare Paraneoplastic Event to a Hallmark in Malignancy. Biomedicines 2023; 12:40. [PMID: 38255147 PMCID: PMC10813354 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010040] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The paraneoplastic syndrome referred in the literature as non-islet-cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH) and extra-pancreatic tumor hypoglycemia (EPTH) was first reported almost a century ago, and the role of cancer-secreted IGF-II in causing this blood glucose-lowering condition has been widely established. The landscape emerging in the last few decades, based on molecular and cellular findings, supports a broader role for IGF-II in cancer biology beyond its involvement in the paraneoplastic syndrome. In particular, a few key findings are constantly observed during tumorigenesis, (a) a relative and absolute increase in fetal insulin receptor isoform (IRA) content, with (b) an increase in IGF-II high-molecular weight cancer-variants (big-IGF-II), and (c) a stage-progressive increase in the IGF-II autocrine signal in the cancer cell, mostly during the transition from benign to malignant growth. An increasing and still under-exploited combinatorial pattern of the IGF-II signal in cancer is shaping up in the literature with respect to its transducing receptorial system and effector intracellular network. Interestingly, while surgical and clinical reports have traditionally restricted IGF-II secretion to a small number of solid malignancies displaying paraneoplastic hypoglycemia, a retrospective literature analysis, along with publicly available expression data from patient-derived cancer cell lines conveyed in the present perspective, clearly suggests that IGF-II expression in cancer is a much more common event, especially in overt malignancy. These findings strengthen the view that (1) IGF-II expression/secretion in solid tumor-derived cancer cell lines and tissues is a broader and more common event compared to the reported IGF-II association to paraneoplastic hypoglycemia, and (2) IGF-II associates to the commonly observed autocrine loops in cancer cells while IGF-I cancer-promoting effects may be linked to its paracrine effects in the tumor microenvironment. Based on these evidence-centered considerations, making the autocrine IGF-II loop a hallmark for malignant cancer growth, we here propose the functional name of IGF-II secreting tumors (IGF-IIsT) to overcome the view that IGF-II secretion and pro-tumorigenic actions affect only a clinical sub-group of rare tumors with associated hypoglycemic symptoms. The proposed scenario provides an updated logical frame towards biologically sound therapeutic strategies and personalized therapeutic interventions for currently unaccounted IGF-II-producing cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Scalia
- The ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA; 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Ignazio R. Marino
- Department of Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Salvatore Asero
- The ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA; 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
- ARNAS Garibaldi, UOC Chirurgia Oncologica, Nesima, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pandini
- The ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA; 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Adda Grimberg
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wafik S. El-Deiry
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Stephen J. Williams
- The ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA; 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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4
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Scalia P, Williams SJ. Over-expression by degradation rescue of RTKs via cancer-secreted autocrine growth factors: a Phospho-degron-driven actionable layer of post-translational regulation?. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1278402. [PMID: 37823054 PMCID: PMC10562641 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1278402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently published work provide the first known evidence of a malignancy-associated regulatory mechanism, functionally connecting a phospho-regulated degron domain embedded in a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), with its ectopic expression in cancer, conditional to a specific autocrine growth factor signal. Mechanistically, the growth factor-triggered phosphorylation inhibits the degron domain present in the regulated RTK, blocking access to a specific degradation complex. This ultimately rescues the RTK from rapid ubiquitin-proteasome-system-mediated degradation and, most importantly, causes its cellular overexpression. This mechanism, which has been here assigned the new functional name "Over-Expression by Degradation Rescue" (OEDR), provides an additional layer and potentially preferential tool for the control of RTKs expression in cancer, in addition to other mechanisms acting at the transcriptional and messenger transcript stabilization levels. We propose this newly defined phosphorylation/ubiquitination switch-dependent signal to bear wider unexploited relevance in cell biology and human pathophysiology. The recently identified mechanism underlying an OEDR-regulated RTK is discussed herein in the context of physiological endocrine circuits and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Scalia
- Istituto Somatogene per la Oncologia Personalizzata e la Ricerca Onco-Genomica (ISOPROG)-Somatolink Expert-Patients For Patients (EPFP) Research Network, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Istituto Somatogene per la Oncologia Personalizzata e la Ricerca Onco-Genomica (ISOPROG)-Somatolink Expert-Patients For Patients (EPFP) Research Network, Caltanissetta, Italy
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Stephen J. Williams
- Istituto Somatogene per la Oncologia Personalizzata e la Ricerca Onco-Genomica (ISOPROG)-Somatolink Expert-Patients For Patients (EPFP) Research Network, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Istituto Somatogene per la Oncologia Personalizzata e la Ricerca Onco-Genomica (ISOPROG)-Somatolink Expert-Patients For Patients (EPFP) Research Network, Caltanissetta, Italy
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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IGF2: A Role in Metastasis and Tumor Evasion from Immune Surveillance? Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010229. [PMID: 36672737 PMCID: PMC9855361 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is upregulated in both childhood and adult malignancies. Its overexpression is associated with resistance to chemotherapy and worse prognosis. However, our understanding of its physiological and pathological role is lagging behind what we know about IGF1. Dysregulation of the expression and function of IGF2 receptors, insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A), insulin growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R), and their downstream signaling effectors drive cancer initiation and progression. The involvement of IGF2 in carcinogenesis depends on its ability to link high energy intake, increase cell proliferation, and suppress apoptosis to cancer risk, and this is likely the key mechanism bridging insulin resistance to cancer. New aspects are emerging regarding the role of IGF2 in promoting cancer metastasis by promoting evasion from immune destruction. This review provides a perspective on IGF2 and an update on recent research findings. Specifically, we focus on studies providing compelling evidence that IGF2 is not only a major factor in primary tumor development, but it also plays a crucial role in cancer spread, immune evasion, and resistance to therapies. Further studies are needed in order to find new therapeutic approaches to target IGF2 action.
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6
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Scalia P, Williams SJ, Fujita-Yamaguchi Y, Giordano A. Cell cycle control by the insulin-like growth factor signal: at the crossroad between cell growth and mitotic regulation. Cell Cycle 2023; 22:1-37. [PMID: 36005738 PMCID: PMC9769454 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2022.2108117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In proliferating cells and tissues a number of checkpoints (G1/S and G2/M) preceding cell division (M-phase) require the signal provided by growth factors present in serum. IGFs (I and II) have been demonstrated to constitute key intrinsic components of the peptidic active fraction of mammalian serum. In vivo genetic ablation studies have shown that the cellular signal triggered by the IGFs through their cellular receptors represents a non-replaceable requirement for cell growth and cell cycle progression. Retroactive and current evaluation of published literature sheds light on the intracellular circuitry activated by these factors providing us with a better picture of the pleiotropic mechanistic actions by which IGFs regulate both cell size and mitogenesis under developmental growth as well as in malignant proliferation. The present work aims to summarize the cumulative knowledge learned from the IGF ligands/receptors and their intracellular signaling transducers towards control of cell size and cell-cycle with particular focus to their actionable circuits in human cancer. Furthermore, we bring novel perspectives on key functional discriminants of the IGF growth-mitogenic pathway allowing re-evaluation on some of its signal components based upon established evidences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Scalia
- ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Caltanissetta, Italy,CST, Biology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United states,CONTACT Pierluigi Scalia ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA9102, USA
| | - Stephen J Williams
- ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Caltanissetta, Italy,CST, Biology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United states
| | - Yoko Fujita-Yamaguchi
- Arthur Riggs Diabetes & Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Antonio Giordano
- ISOPROG-Somatolink EPFP Research Network, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Caltanissetta, Italy,School of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Italy
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7
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Malaguarnera R, Gabriele C, Santamaria G, Giuliano M, Vella V, Massimino M, Vigneri P, Cuda G, Gaspari M, Belfiore A. Comparative proteomic analysis of insulin receptor isoform A and B signaling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 557:111739. [PMID: 35940390 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The insulin receptor (IR) gene undergoes differential splicing generating two IR isoforms, IR-A and IR-B. The roles of IR-A in cancer and of IR-B in metabolic regulation are well known but the molecular mechanisms responsible for their different biological effects are poorly understood. We aimed to identify different or similar protein substrates and signaling linked to each IR isoforms. We employed mouse fibroblasts lacking IGF1R gene and expressing exclusively either IR-A or IR-B. By proteomic analysis a total of 2530 proteins were identified and quantified. Proteins and pathways mostly associated with insulin-activated IR-A were involved in cancer, stemness and interferon signaling. Instead, proteins and pathways associated with insulin-stimulated IR-B-expressing cells were mostly involved in metabolic or tumor suppressive functions. These results show that IR-A and IR-B recruit partially different multiprotein complexes in response to insulin, suggesting partially different functions of IR isoforms in physiology and in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caterina Gabriele
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Santamaria
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy; Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Medicine and Molecular Cardiology, Technical University of Munich, Germany.
| | - Marika Giuliano
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy.
| | - Veronica Vella
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy.
| | - Michele Massimino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Oncology Unit, University of Catania, 95100, Catania, Italy.
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Oncology Unit, University of Catania, 95100, Catania, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Cuda
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Marco Gaspari
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122, Catania, Italy.
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8
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Abstract
The functional mass of kidney tissue in an adult is an important determinant of human health. Kidney formation during development is an essential determinant of the final nephron endowment of the adult organ, and no evidence has been reported that mice or humans are able to generate new nephrons after the developmental period. Mechanisms controlling organ growth after development are essential to establish the final adult organ size. The potential for organ growth is maintained in adult life and the size of one kidney may be significantly increased by loss of the contralateral kidney. The mouse has provided a model system for investigators to critically explore genetic, cell biological, and hormonal control of developmental and juvenile kidney growth. This article reviews three basic aspects of kidney size regulation: (1) Mechanisms that control nephron formation and how these are altered by the cessation of nephrogenesis at the end of the developmental period. (2) Applicability of the general model for growth hormone-insulin like growth factor control to kidney growth both pre- and postnatally. (3) Commonalities between mechanisms of juvenile kidney growth and the compensatory growth that is stimulated in adult life by reduction of kidney mass. Understanding the mechanisms that determine set-points for cell numbers and size in the kidney may inform ongoing efforts to generate kidney tissue from stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leif Oxburgh
- The Rogosin Institute, New York, NY, United States.
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9
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Well-differentiated liposarcoma causing non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia. Int Cancer Conf J 2022; 11:210-214. [PMID: 35669897 PMCID: PMC9163218 DOI: 10.1007/s13691-022-00550-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH) is a paraneoplastic syndrome that causes severe hypoglycemia. The tumor involved produces high-molecular-weight insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II). NICTH can be caused by various benign and malignant tumors. However, NICTH due to liposarcoma (LPS) is rare. A 38-year-old man was brought to the hospital emergency department with complaints of vomiting and unconsciousness. His abdomen was distended, and a large tumor was palpable. He had severe hypoglycemia that required continuous glucose infusion. Radiological examination revealed a large 40-cm mass that filled the abdominal cavity, and LPS of the mesentery was suspected. Laboratory data showed low levels of insulin, C-peptide, and IGF-I concentrations. Subsequently, an LPS-induced NICTH was suspected. Complete resection of the tumor and the encased small intestine was performed. The pathological diagnosis was well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS). The Western immunoblot showed that the high-molecular-weight IGF-II confirmed in the serum preoperatively, had almost disappeared postoperatively. Based on these findings, NICTH caused by a WDLPS was diagnosed. The postoperative course was uneventful. In the last 4 years since the primary operation, the patient had not experienced further hypoglycemia symptoms. Here, we report a case of NICTH caused by a large WDLPS. NICTH should be considered in patients with both severe hypoglycemia and large tumors. In these cases, appropriate treatment including semi-urgent surgery should be provided.
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Vella V, Giuliano M, La Ferlita A, Pellegrino M, Gaudenzi G, Alaimo S, Massimino M, Pulvirenti A, Dicitore A, Vigneri P, Vitale G, Malaguarnera R, Morrione A, Sims AH, Ferro A, Maggiolini M, Lappano R, De Francesco EM, Belfiore A. Novel Mechanisms of Tumor Promotion by the Insulin Receptor Isoform A in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2021; 10:3145. [PMID: 34831367 PMCID: PMC8621444 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A) plays an increasingly recognized role in fetal growth and tumor biology in response to circulating insulin and/or locally produced IGF2. This role seems not to be shared by the IR isoform B (IR-B). We aimed to dissect the specific impact of IR isoforms in modulating insulin signaling in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. We generated murine 4T1 TNBC cells deleted from the endogenous insulin receptor (INSR) gene and expressing comparable levels of either human IR-A or IR-B. We then measured IR isoform-specific in vitro and in vivo biological effects and transcriptome in response to insulin. Overall, the IR-A was more potent than the IR-B in mediating cell migration, invasion, and in vivo tumor growth. Transcriptome analysis showed that approximately 89% of insulin-stimulated transcripts depended solely on the expression of the specific isoform. Notably, in cells overexpressing IR-A, insulin strongly induced genes involved in tumor progression and immune evasion including chemokines and genes related to innate immunity. Conversely, in IR-B overexpressing cells, insulin predominantly induced the expression of genes primarily involved in the regulation of metabolic pathways and, to a lesser extent, tumor growth and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (V.V.); (M.G.); (E.M.D.F.)
| | - Marika Giuliano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (V.V.); (M.G.); (E.M.D.F.)
| | - Alessandro La Ferlita
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy; (A.L.F.); (S.A.); (A.P.); (A.F.)
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michele Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.P.); (M.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Germano Gaudenzi
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy; (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.V.)
| | - Salvatore Alaimo
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy; (A.L.F.); (S.A.); (A.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Michele Massimino
- Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (M.M.); (P.V.)
| | - Alfredo Pulvirenti
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy; (A.L.F.); (S.A.); (A.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessandra Dicitore
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy; (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.V.)
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (M.M.); (P.V.)
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Italy; (G.G.); (A.D.); (G.V.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Morrione
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
| | - Andrew H. Sims
- MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Scotland EH4 2XR, UK;
| | - Alfredo Ferro
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy; (A.L.F.); (S.A.); (A.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.P.); (M.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.P.); (M.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Ernestina Marianna De Francesco
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (V.V.); (M.G.); (E.M.D.F.)
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy; (V.V.); (M.G.); (E.M.D.F.)
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11
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The Yin and Yang of Discoidin Domain Receptors (DDRs): Implications in Tumor Growth and Metastasis Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071725. [PMID: 33917302 PMCID: PMC8038660 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in tumor development and metastasis. Collagens are major components of the extracellular matrix and can influence tumor development and metastasis by activating discoidin domain receptors (DDRs). This work shows the different roles of DDRs in various cancers and highlights the complexity of anti-DDR therapies in cancer treatment. Abstract The tumor microenvironment is a complex structure composed of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and nontumoral cells (notably cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and immune cells). Collagens are the main components of the ECM and they are extensively remodeled during tumor progression. Some collagens are ligands for the discoidin domain receptor tyrosine kinases, DDR1 and DDR2. DDRs are involved in different stages of tumor development and metastasis formation. In this review, we present the different roles of DDRs in these processes and discuss controversial findings. We conclude by describing emerging DDR inhibitory strategies, which could be used as new alternatives for the treatment of patients.
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12
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Understanding IGF-II Action through Insights into Receptor Binding and Activation. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102276. [PMID: 33053840 PMCID: PMC7601145 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system regulates metabolic and mitogenic signaling through an intricate network of related receptors and hormones. IGF-II is one of several hormones within this system that primarily regulates mitogenic functions and is especially important during fetal growth and development. IGF-II is also found to be overexpressed in several cancer types, promoting growth and survival. It is also unique in the IGF system as it acts through both IGF-1R and insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A). Despite this, IGF-II is the least investigated ligand of the IGF system. This review will explore recent developments in IGF-II research including a structure of IGF-II bound to IGF-1R determined using cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM). Comparisons are made with the structures of insulin and IGF-I bound to their cognate receptors. Finally discussed are outstanding questions in the mechanism of action of IGF-II with the goal of developing antagonists of IGF action in cancer.
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Buraschi S, Morcavallo A, Neill T, Stefanello M, Palladino C, Xu SQ, Belfiore A, Iozzo RV, Morrione A. Discoidin Domain Receptor 1 functionally interacts with the IGF-I system in bladder cancer. Matrix Biol Plus 2020; 6-7:100022. [PMID: 33543020 PMCID: PMC7852334 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2020.100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is one of the most common and aggressive cancers and, regardless of the treatment, often recurs and metastasizes. Thus, a better understanding of the mechanisms regulating urothelial tumorigenesis is critical for the design and implementation of rational therapeutic strategies. We previously discovered that the IGF-IR axis is critical for bladder cancer cell motility and invasion, suggesting a possible role in bladder cancer progression. However, IGF-IR depletion in metastatic bladder cancer cells only partially inhibited anchorage-independent growth. Significantly, metastatic bladder cancer cells have decreased IGF-IR levels but overexpressed the insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A), suggesting that the latter may play a more prevalent role than the IGF-IR in bladder tumor progression. The collagen receptor DDR1 cross-talks with both the IGF-IR and IR in breast cancer, and previous data suggest a role of DDR1 in bladder cancer. Here, we show that DDR1 is expressed in invasive and metastatic, but not in papillary, non-invasive bladder cancer cells. DDR1 is phosphorylated upon stimulation with IGF-I, IGF-II, and insulin, co-precipitates with the IGF-IR, and the IR-A and transient DDR1 depletion severely inhibits IGF-I-induced motility. We further demonstrate that DDR1 interacts with Pyk2 and non-muscle myosin IIA in ligands-dependent fashion, suggesting that it may link the IGF-IR and IR-A to the regulation of F-actin cytoskeleton dynamics. Similarly to the IGF-IR, DDR1 is upregulated in bladder cancer tissues compared to healthy tissue controls. Thus, our findings provide the first characterization of the molecular cross-talk between DDR1 and the IGF-I system and could lead to the identification of novel targets for therapeutic intervention in bladder cancer. Moreover, the expression profiles of IGF-IR, IR-A, DDR1, and downstream effectors could serve as a novel biomarker signature with diagnostic and prognostic significance. We discovered that the collagen receptor DDR1 cross-talks with insulin growth factor I (IGF-I) signaling in bladder cancer DDR1 co-precipitates with the IGF-IR and the insulin receptor (IR), and is phosphorylated upon stimulation with IGF ligands This collagen receptor modulates IGF-I-evoked motility and anchorage-independent growth DDR1 complexes with Pyk2, myosin IIA, IGF-IR and/or IR and regulates actin dynamics
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Buraschi
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Alaide Morcavallo
- Department of Urology, and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Thomas Neill
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Manuela Stefanello
- Department of Urology, and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Chiara Palladino
- Department of Urology, and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Shi-Qiong Xu
- Department of Urology, and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.,Department of Urology, and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.,Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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14
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Holly JMP, Biernacka K, Perks CM. The Neglected Insulin: IGF-II, a Metabolic Regulator with Implications for Diabetes, Obesity, and Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101207. [PMID: 31590432 PMCID: PMC6829378 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
When originally discovered, one of the initial observations was that, when all of the insulin peptide was depleted from serum, the vast majority of the insulin activity remained and this was due to a single additional peptide, IGF-II. The IGF-II gene is adjacent to the insulin gene, which is a result of gene duplication, but has evolved to be considerably more complicated. It was one of the first genes recognised to be imprinted and expressed in a parent-of-origin specific manner. The gene codes for IGF-II mRNA, but, in addition, also codes for antisense RNA, long non-coding RNA, and several micro RNA. Recent evidence suggests that each of these have important independent roles in metabolic regulation. It has also become clear that an alternatively spliced form of the insulin receptor may be the principle IGF-II receptor. These recent discoveries have important implications for metabolic disorders and also for cancer, for which there is renewed acknowledgement of the importance of metabolic reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff M P Holly
- Department of Translational Health Science, Bristol Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
| | - Kalina Biernacka
- Department of Translational Health Science, Bristol Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Claire M Perks
- Department of Translational Health Science, Bristol Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
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15
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Vella V, Nicolosi ML, Giuliano M, Morrione A, Malaguarnera R, Belfiore A. Insulin Receptor Isoform A Modulates Metabolic Reprogramming of Breast Cancer Cells in Response to IGF2 and Insulin Stimulation. Cells 2019; 8:cells8091017. [PMID: 31480557 PMCID: PMC6770491 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously published work has demonstrated that overexpression of the insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A) might play a role in cancer progression and metastasis. The IR has a predominant metabolic role in physiology, but the potential role of IR-A in cancer metabolic reprogramming is unknown. We aimed to characterize the metabolic impact of IR-A and its ligand insulin like growth factor 2 (IGF2) in human breast cancer (BC) cells. To establish autocrine IGF2 action, we generated human BC cells MCF7 overexpressing the human IGF2, while we focused on the metabolic effect of IR-A by stably infecting IGF1R-ablated MCF7 (MCF7IGF1R-ve) cells with a human IR-A cDNA. We then evaluated the expression of key metabolism related molecules and measured real-time extracellular acidification rates and oxygen consumption rates using the Seahorse technology. MCF7/IGF2 cells showed increased proliferation and invasion associated with aerobic glycolysis and mitochondrial biogenesis and activity. In MCF7IGF1R-ve/IR-A cells insulin and IGF2 stimulated similar metabolic changes and were equipotent in eliciting proliferative responses, while IGF2 more potently induced invasion. The combined treatment with the glycolysis inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) and the mitochondrial inhibitor metformin blocked cell invasion and colony formation with additive effects. Overall, these results indicate that IGF2 and IR-A overexpression may contribute to BC metabolic reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania 95122, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Nicolosi
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania 95122, Italy
| | - Marika Giuliano
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania 95122, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Roberta Malaguarnera
- School of Human and Social Sciences, "Kore" University of Enna, Enna 94100, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania 95122, Italy.
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16
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Vella V, Malaguarnera R, Nicolosi ML, Morrione A, Belfiore A. Insulin/IGF signaling and discoidin domain receptors: An emerging functional connection. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:118522. [PMID: 31394114 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.118522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The insulin/insulin-like growth factor system (IIGFs) plays a fundamental role in the regulation of prenatal and postnatal growth, metabolism and homeostasis. As a consequence, dysregulation of this axis is associated with growth disturbance, type 2 diabetes, chronic inflammation and tumor progression. A functional crosstalk between IIGFs and discoidin domain receptors (DDRs) has been recently discovered. DDRs are non-integrin collagen receptors that canonically undergo slow and long-lasting autophosphorylation after binding to fibrillar collagen. While both DDR1 and DDR2 functionally interact with IIGFs, the crosstalk with DDR1 is so far better characterized. Notably, the IIGFs-DDR1 crosstalk presents a feed-forward mechanism, which does not require collagen binding, thus identifying novel non-canonical action of DDR1. Further studies are needed to fully explore the role of this IIGFs-DDRs functional loop as potential target in the treatment of inflammatory and neoplastic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Nicolosi
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy.
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17
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Identification of a novel EphB4 phosphodegron regulated by the autocrine IGFII/IR A axis in malignant mesothelioma. Oncogene 2019; 38:5987-6001. [PMID: 31270394 PMCID: PMC8075896 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma is a deadly disease with limited therapeutic options. EphB4 is an oncogenic tyrosine kinase receptor expressed in malignant mesothelioma as well as in a variety of cancers. It is involved in tumor microenvironment mediating angiogenesis and invasive cellular effects via both EphrinB2 ligand-dependent and independent mechanisms. The molecular network underlying EphB4 oncogenic effects is still unclear. Here we show that EphB4 expression in malignant mesothelioma cells is markedly decreased upon neutralization of cancer-secreted IGF-II. In particular, we demonstrate that EphB4 protein expression in malignant mesothelioma cells depend upon a degradation rescue mechanism controlled by the autocrine IGF-II-insulin receptor-A specific signaling axis. We show that the regulation of EphB4 expression is linked to a competing post-translational modification of its carboxy-terminal tail via phosphorylation of its tyrosine 987 by the Insulin receptor isoform-A kinase-associated activity in response to the autocrine IGF-II stimuli. Neutralization of this autocrine-induced EphB4-phosphorylation by IGF-II associates with the increased ubiquitination of EphB4 carboxy-terminal tail and with its rapid degradation. We also describe a novel Ubiquitin binding motif in the targeted region as part of the identified EphB4 phosphodegron and provide 3D modeling data supporting a possible model for the acute EphB4 PTM-driven regulation by IGF-II. Altogether, these findings disclose a novel molecular mechanism for the maintenance of EphB4-expression in malignant mesothelioma cells and other IGF-II-secreting cancers (IGF2omas).
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Holly JMP, Biernacka K, Perks CM. Systemic Metabolism, Its Regulators, and Cancer: Past Mistakes and Future Potential. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:65. [PMID: 30809194 PMCID: PMC6380210 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a resurgence of interest in cancer metabolism; primarily in the resetting of metabolism within malignant cells. Metabolism within cells has always been a tightly regulated process; initially in protozoans due to metabolic enzymes, and the intracellular signaling pathways that regulate these, being directly sensitive to the availability of nutrients. With the evolution of metazoans many of these controls had been overlaid by extra-cellular regulators that ensured coordinated regulation of metabolism within the community of cells that comprised the organism. Central to these systemic regulators is the insulin/insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system that throughout evolution has integrated the control of tissue growth with metabolic status. Oncological interest in the main systemic metabolic regulators greatly subsided when pharmaceutical strategies designed to treat cancers failed in the clinic. During the same period, however the explosion of new information from genetics has revealed the complexity and heterogeneity of advanced cancers and helped explain the problems of managing cancer when it reaches such a stage. Evidence has also accumulated implying that the setting of the internal environment determines whether cancers progress to advanced disease and metabolic status is clearly an important component of this local ecology. We are in the midst of an epidemic of metabolic disorders and there is considerable research into strategies for controlling metabolism. Integrating these new streams of information suggests new possibilities for cancer prevention; both primary and secondary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff M. P. Holly
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Translational Health Science, University of Bristol, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
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19
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Vella V, Milluzzo A, Scalisi NM, Vigneri P, Sciacca L. Insulin Receptor Isoforms in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113615. [PMID: 30453495 PMCID: PMC6274710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin receptor (IR) mediates both metabolic and mitogenic effects especially when overexpressed or in clinical conditions with compensatory hyperinsulinemia, due to the metabolic pathway resistance, as obesity diabetes. In many cancers, IR is overexpressed preferentially as IR-A isoform, derived by alternative splicing of exon 11. The IR-A overexpression, and the increased IR-A:IR-B ratio, are mechanisms that promote the mitogenic response of cancer cells to insulin and IGF-2, which is produced locally by both epithelial and stromal cancer cells. In cancer IR-A, isoform predominance may occur for dysregulation at both mRNA transcription and post-transcription levels, including splicing factors, non-coding RNAs and protein degradation. The mechanisms that regulate IR isoform expression are complex and not fully understood. The IR isoform overexpression may play a role in cancer cell stemness, in tumor progression and in resistance to target therapies. From a clinical point of view, the IR-A overexpression in cancer may be a determinant factor for the resistance to IGF-1R target therapies for this issue. IR isoform expression in cancers may have the meaning of a predictive biomarker and co-targeting IGF-1R and IR-A may represent a new more efficacious treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Section, University of Catania Medical School, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, via Palermo 636, 95122 Catania, Italy.
- School of Human and Social Science, University "Kore" of Enna, 94100 Enna, Italy.
| | - Agostino Milluzzo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Section, University of Catania Medical School, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, via Palermo 636, 95122 Catania, Italy.
| | - Nunzio Massimo Scalisi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Section, University of Catania Medical School, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, via Palermo 636, 95122 Catania, Italy.
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania Medical School, Center of Experimental Oncology and Hematology, A.O.U. Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Laura Sciacca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Section, University of Catania Medical School, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, via Palermo 636, 95122 Catania, Italy.
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20
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Mancarella C, Scotlandi K. IGF system in sarcomas: a crucial pathway with many unknowns to exploit for therapy. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:T45-T60. [PMID: 29273680 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system has gained substantial interest due to its involvement in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation and survival during anoikis and after conventional and targeted therapies. However, results from clinical trials have been largely disappointing, with only a few but notable exceptions, such as trials targeting sarcomas, especially Ewing sarcoma. This review highlights key studies focusing on IGF signaling in sarcomas, specifically studies underscoring the properties that make this system an attractive therapeutic target and identifies new relationships that may be exploited. This review discusses the potential roles of IGF2 mRNA-binding proteins (IGF2BPs), discoidin domain receptors (DDRs) and metalloproteinase pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) in regulating the IGF system. Deeper investigation of these novel regulators of the IGF system may help us to further elucidate the spatial and temporal control of the IGF axis, as understanding the control of this axis is essential for future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Mancarella
- Experimental Oncology Lab, CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Orthopaedic Rizzoli Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- Experimental Oncology Lab, CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Orthopaedic Rizzoli Institute, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Vella V, Malaguarnera R, Nicolosi ML, Palladino C, Spoleti C, Massimino M, Vigneri P, Purrello M, Ragusa M, Morrione A, Belfiore A. Discoidin domain receptor 1 modulates insulin receptor signaling and biological responses in breast cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:43248-43270. [PMID: 28591735 PMCID: PMC5522143 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal isoform A of the insulin receptor (IR-A) is frequently overexpressed in a variety of malignancies including breast cancer. IR overexpression has a recognized role in cancer progression and resistance to anticancer therapies. In particular, IR-A has a peculiar mitogenic potential and is activated not only by insulin but also by IGF-2. Previously, we identified discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1) as a new IR-A interacting protein. DDR1, a non-integrin collagen tyrosine kinase receptor, is overexpressed in several malignancies and plays a role in cancer progression and metastasis. We now evaluated whether DDR1 is able to exert a role in breast cancer biology by functionally cross-talking with IR. In MCF-7 human breast cancer cells, IR and DDR1 co-immunoprecipitated and co-localized after insulin or IGF-2 stimulation. In a panel of breast cancer cells, DDR1 knockdown by specific siRNAs markedly inhibited IR downstream signaling as well as proliferation, migration and colony formation in response to insulin and IGF-2. These effects were accompanied by reduction of IR protein and mRNA expression, which involved both transcriptional and post-transcriptional effects. DDR1 overexpression elicited opposite effects. Bioinformatics analysis of public domain databases showed that IR and DDR1 co-expression significantly correlates with several clinically relevant histopathological and molecular features of human breast carcinomas. These findings demonstrate that, in human breast cancer cells, DDR1 regulates IR expression and ligand dependent biological actions. This novel functional crosstalk is likely clinically relevant and may become a new molecular target in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Vella
- School of Motor Sciences, Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Roberta Malaguarnera
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Nicolosi
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Chiara Palladino
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cristina Spoleti
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michele Massimino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Purrello
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Unit of BioMolecular, Genome, and Complex System BioMedicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Ragusa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Unit of BioMolecular, Genome, and Complex System BioMedicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Urology and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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22
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Belfiore A, Malaguarnera R, Vella V, Lawrence MC, Sciacca L, Frasca F, Morrione A, Vigneri R. Insulin Receptor Isoforms in Physiology and Disease: An Updated View. Endocr Rev 2017; 38:379-431. [PMID: 28973479 PMCID: PMC5629070 DOI: 10.1210/er.2017-00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The insulin receptor (IR) gene undergoes differential splicing that generates two IR isoforms, IR-A and IR-B. The physiological roles of IR isoforms are incompletely understood and appear to be determined by their different binding affinities for insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), particularly for IGF-2. Predominant roles of IR-A in prenatal growth and development and of IR-B in metabolic regulation are well established. However, emerging evidence indicates that the differential expression of IR isoforms may also help explain the diversification of insulin and IGF signaling and actions in various organs and tissues by involving not only different ligand-binding affinities but also different membrane partitioning and trafficking and possibly different abilities to interact with a variety of molecular partners. Of note, dysregulation of the IR-A/IR-B ratio is associated with insulin resistance, aging, and increased proliferative activity of normal and neoplastic tissues and appears to sustain detrimental effects. This review discusses novel information that has generated remarkable progress in our understanding of the physiology of IR isoforms and their role in disease. We also focus on novel IR ligands and modulators that should now be considered as an important strategy for better and safer treatment of diabetes and cancer and possibly other IR-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberta Malaguarnera
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Veronica Vella
- School of Human and Social Sciences, University Kore of Enna, via della Cooperazione, 94100 Enna, Italy
| | - Michael C. Lawrence
- Structural Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Laura Sciacca
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Frasca
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Urology and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
| | - Riccardo Vigneri
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
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23
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Liefers-Visser JAL, Meijering RAM, Reyners AKL, van der Zee AGJ, de Jong S. IGF system targeted therapy: Therapeutic opportunities for ovarian cancer. Cancer Treat Rev 2017; 60:90-99. [PMID: 28934637 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system comprises multiple growth factor receptors, including insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), insulin receptor (IR) -A and -B. These receptors are activated upon binding to their respective growth factor ligands, IGF-I, IGF-II and insulin, and play an important role in development, maintenance, progression, survival and chemotherapeutic response of ovarian cancer. In many pre-clinical studies anti-IGF-1R/IR targeted strategies proved effective in reducing growth of ovarian cancer models. In addition, anti-IGF-1R targeted strategies potentiated the efficacy of platinum based chemotherapy. Despite the vast amount of encouraging and promising pre-clinical data, anti-IGF-1R/IR targeted strategies lacked efficacy in the clinic. The question is whether targeting the IGF-1R/IR signaling pathway still holds therapeutic potential. In this review we address the complexity of the IGF-1R/IR signaling pathway, including receptor heterodimerization within and outside the IGF system and downstream signaling. Further, we discuss the implications of this complexity on current targeted strategies and indicate therapeutic opportunities for successful targeting of the IGF-1R/IR signaling pathway in ovarian cancer. Multiple-targeted approaches circumventing bidirectional receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) compensation and prevention of system rewiring are expected to have more therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A L Liefers-Visser
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - R A M Meijering
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A K L Reyners
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A G J van der Zee
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - S de Jong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Matà R, Palladino C, Nicolosi ML, Lo Presti AR, Malaguarnera R, Ragusa M, Sciortino D, Morrione A, Maggiolini M, Vella V, Belfiore A. IGF-I induces upregulation of DDR1 collagen receptor in breast cancer cells by suppressing MIR-199a-5p through the PI3K/AKT pathway. Oncotarget 2016; 7:7683-700. [PMID: 26655502 PMCID: PMC4884947 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Discoidin Domain Receptor 1 (DDR1) is a collagen receptor tyrosine-kinase that contributes to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and enhances cancer progression. Our previous data indicate that, in breast cancer cells, DDR1 interacts with IGF-1R and positively modulates IGF-1R expression and biological responses, suggesting that the DDR1-IGF-IR cross-talk may play an important role in cancer. In this study, we set out to evaluate whether IGF-I stimulation may affect DDR1 expression. Indeed, in breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) IGF-I induced significant increase of DDR1 protein expression, in a time and dose dependent manner. However, we did not observe parallel changes in DDR1 mRNA. DDR1 upregulation required the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway while the ERK1/2, the p70/mTOR and the PKC pathways were not involved. Moreover, we observed that DDR1 protein upregulation was induced by translational mechanisms involving miR-199a-5p suppression through PI3K/AKT activation. This effect was confirmed by both IGF-II produced by cancer-associated fibroblasts from human breast cancer and by stable transfection of breast cancer cells with a human IGF-II expression construct. Transfection with a constitutively active form of AKT was sufficient to decrease miR-199a-5p and upregulate DDR1. Accordingly, IGF-I-induced DDR1 upregulation was inhibited by transfection with pre-miR-199a-5p, which also impaired AKT activation and cell migration and proliferation in response to IGF-I. These results demonstrate that, in breast cancer cells, a novel pathway involving AKT/miR-199a-5p/DDR1 plays a role in modulating IGFs biological responses. Therefore, this signaling pathway may represent an important target for breast cancers with over-activation of the IGF-IR axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Matà
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Chiara Palladino
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Nicolosi
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Lo Presti
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberta Malaguarnera
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marco Ragusa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Biology, Genetics and BioInformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniela Sciortino
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Urology and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Veronica Vella
- Motor Sciences, School of Human and Social Sciences, "Kore" University of Enna, Enna, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Molecular Bio-Medicine, Endocrinology Unit, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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25
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van Beijnum JR, Pieters W, Nowak-Sliwinska P, Griffioen AW. Insulin-like growth factor axis targeting in cancer and tumour angiogenesis - the missing link. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2016; 92:1755-1768. [PMID: 27779364 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Numerous molecular players in the process of tumour angiogenesis have been shown to offer potential for therapeutic targeting. Initially denoted to be involved in malignant transformation and tumour progression, the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signalling axis has been subject to therapeutic interference, albeit with limited clinical success. More recently, IGFs and their receptors have received attention for their contribution to tumour angiogenesis, which offers novel therapeutic opportunities. Here we review the contribution of this signalling axis to tumour angiogenesis, the mechanisms of resistance to therapy and the interplay with other pro-angiogenic pathways, to offer insight in the renewed interest in the application of IGF axis targeting agents in anti-cancer combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy R van Beijnum
- Department of Medical Oncology, Angiogenesis Laboratory, VU University Medical Center, PO box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wietske Pieters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Angiogenesis Laboratory, VU University Medical Center, PO box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patrycja Nowak-Sliwinska
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva (UNIGE), Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Arjan W Griffioen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Angiogenesis Laboratory, VU University Medical Center, PO box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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26
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Papaioannou A, Kuyucak S, Kuncic Z. Elucidating the Activation Mechanism of the Insulin-Family Proteins with Molecular Dynamics Simulations. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161459. [PMID: 27548502 PMCID: PMC4993506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-family proteins bind to their own receptors, but insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) can also bind to the A isoform of the insulin receptor (IR-A), activating unique and alternative signaling pathways from those of insulin. Although extensive studies of insulin have revealed that its activation is associated with the opening of the B chain-C terminal (BC-CT), the activation mechanism of the insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) still remains unknown. Here, we present the first comprehensive study of the insulin-family proteins comparing their activation process and mechanism using molecular dynamics simulations to reveal new insights into their specificity to the insulin receptor. We have found that all the proteins appear to exhibit similar stochastic dynamics in their conformational change to an active state. For the IGFs, our simulations show that activation involves two opening locations: the opening of the BC-CT section away from the core, similar to insulin; and the additional opening of the BC-CT section away from the C domain. Furthermore, we have found that these two openings occur simultaneously in IGF-I, but not in IGF-II, where they can occur independently. This suggests that the BC-CT section and the C domain behave as a unified domain in IGF-I, but as two independent domains in IGF-II during the activation process, implying that the IGFs undergo different activation mechanisms for receptor binding. The probabilities of the active and inactive states of the proteins suggest that IGF-II is hyperactive compared to IGF-I. The hinge residue and the hydrophobic interactions in the core are found to play a critical role in the stability and activity of IGFs. Overall, our simulations have elucidated the crucial differences and similarities in the activation mechanisms of the insulin-family proteins, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms responsible for the observed differences between IGF-I and IGF-II in receptor binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Papaioannou
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail: (AP); (ZK)
| | - Serdar Kuyucak
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Zdenka Kuncic
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail: (AP); (ZK)
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27
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Malaguarnera R, Nicolosi ML, Sacco A, Morcavallo A, Vella V, Voci C, Spatuzza M, Xu SQ, Iozzo RV, Vigneri R, Morrione A, Belfiore A. Novel cross talk between IGF-IR and DDR1 regulates IGF-IR trafficking, signaling and biological responses. Oncotarget 2016; 6:16084-105. [PMID: 25840417 PMCID: PMC4599258 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR), plays a key role in regulating mammalian development and growth, and is frequently deregulated in cancer contributing to tumor initiation and progression. Discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), a collagen receptor tyrosine-kinase, is as well frequently overexpressed in cancer and implicated in cancer progression. Thus, we investigated whether a functional cross-talk between the IGF-IR and DDR1 exists and plays any role in cancer progression. Using human breast cancer cells we found that DDR1 constitutively associated with the IGF-IR. However, this interaction was enhanced by IGF-I stimulation, which promoted rapid DDR1 tyrosine-phosphorylation and co-internalization with the IGF-IR. Significantly, DDR1 was critical for IGF-IR endocytosis and trafficking into early endosomes, IGF-IR protein expression and IGF-I intracellular signaling and biological effects, including cell proliferation, migration and colony formation. These biological responses were inhibited by DDR1 silencing and enhanced by DDR1 overexpression. Experiments in mouse fibroblasts co-transfected with the human IGF-IR and DDR1 gave similar results and indicated that, in the absence of IGF-IR, collagen-dependent phosphorylation of DDR1 is impaired. These results demonstrate a critical role of DDR1 in the regulation of IGF-IR action, and identify DDR1 as a novel important target for breast cancers that overexpress IGF-IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Malaguarnera
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Nicolosi
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonella Sacco
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alaide Morcavallo
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Veronica Vella
- Motor Sciences, School of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Concetta Voci
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michela Spatuzza
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Shi-Qiong Xu
- Department of Urology and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology and Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Riccardo Vigneri
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Sperimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Department of Urology and Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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Westermeier F, Sáez T, Arroyo P, Toledo F, Gutiérrez J, Sanhueza C, Pardo F, Leiva A, Sobrevia L. Insulin receptor isoforms: an integrated view focused on gestational diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2016; 32:350-65. [PMID: 26431063 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.2729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The human insulin receptor (IR) exists in two isoforms that differ by the absence (IR-A) or the presence (IR-B) of a 12-amino acid segment encoded by exon 11. Both isoforms are functionally distinct regarding their binding affinities and intracellular signalling. However, the underlying mechanisms related to their cellular functions in several tissues are only partially understood. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge in this field regarding the alternative splicing of IR isoform, tissue-specific distribution and signalling both in physiology and disease, with an emphasis on the human placenta in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Furthermore, we discuss the clinical relevance of IR isoforms highlighted by findings that show altered insulin signalling due to differential IR-A and IR-B expression in human placental endothelium in GDM pregnancies. Future research and clinical studies focused on the role of IR isoform signalling might provide novel therapeutic targets for treating GDM to improve the adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Westermeier
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Advanced Centre for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Science, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - T Sáez
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), Faculty of Medicine, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - P Arroyo
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - F Toledo
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile
| | - J Gutiérrez
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Cellular Signalling and Differentiation Laboratory (CSDL), School of Medical Technology, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Sanhueza
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - F Pardo
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - A Leiva
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - L Sobrevia
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
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29
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Franks SE, Jones RA, Briah R, Murray P, Moorehead RA. BMS-754807 is cytotoxic to non-small cell lung cancer cells and enhances the effects of platinum chemotherapeutics in the human lung cancer cell line A549. BMC Res Notes 2016; 9:134. [PMID: 26928578 PMCID: PMC4772483 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-016-1919-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite advances in targeted therapy for lung cancer, survival for patients remains poor and lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-IR) has emerged as a potential target for lung cancer treatment, however, clinical trials to date have provided disappointing results. Further research is needed to identify if certain patients would benefit from IGF-IR targeted therapies and the ideal approach to incorporate IGF-IR targeted agents with current therapies. Methods The dual IGF-IR/insulin receptor inhibitor, BMS-754807, was evaluated alone and in combination with platinum-based chemotherapeutics in two human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. Cell survival was determined using WST-1 assays and drug interaction was evaluated using Calcusyn software. Proliferation and apoptosis were determined using immunofluorescence for phospho-histone H3 and cleaved caspase 3, respectively. Results Treatment with BMS-754807 alone reduced cell survival and wound closure while enhancing apoptosis in both human lung cancer cell lines. These effects appear to be mediated through IGF-IR/IR signaling and, at least in part, through the PI3K/AKT pathway as administration of BMS-754807 to A549 or NCI-H358 cells significantly suppressed IGF-IR/IR and AKT phosphorylation. In addition of BMS-754807 enhanced the cytotoxic effects of carboplatin or cisplatin in a synergistic manner when given simultaneously to A549 cells. Conclusions BMS-754807 may be an effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of NSCLC, particularly in lung cancer cells expressing high levels of IGF-IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Elizabeth Franks
- Department of Biomedical Science, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada.
| | - Robert A Jones
- Department of Biomedical Science, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada.
| | - Ritesh Briah
- Department of Biomedical Science, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada.
| | - Payton Murray
- Department of Biomedical Science, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada.
| | - Roger A Moorehead
- Department of Biomedical Science, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada.
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30
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Lodhia KA, Tienchaiananda P, Haluska P. Understanding the Key to Targeting the IGF Axis in Cancer: A Biomarker Assessment. Front Oncol 2015. [PMID: 26217584 PMCID: PMC4495315 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 1 insulin like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) targeted therapies showed compelling pre-clinical evidence; however, to date, this has failed to translate into patient benefit in Phase 2/3 trials in unselected patients. This was further complicated by the toxicity, including hyperglycemia, which largely results from the overlap between IGF and insulin signaling systems and associated feedback mechanisms. This has halted the clinical development of inhibitors targeting IGF signaling, which has limited the availability of biopsy samples for correlative studies to understand biomarkers of response. Indeed, a major factor contributing to lack of clinical benefit of IGF targeting agents has been difficulty in identifying patients with tumors driven by IGF signaling due to the lack of predictive biomarkers. In this review, we will describe the IGF system, rationale for targeting IGF signaling, the potential liabilities of targeting strategies, and potential biomarkers that may improve success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paul Haluska
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, MN , USA
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31
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Casellas A, Mallol C, Salavert A, Jimenez V, Garcia M, Agudo J, Obach M, Haurigot V, Vilà L, Molas M, Lage R, Morró M, Casana E, Ruberte J, Bosch F. Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Overexpression Induces β-Cell Dysfunction and Increases Beta-cell Susceptibility to Damage. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:16772-85. [PMID: 25971976 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.642041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The human insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) and insulin genes are located within the same genomic region. Although human genomic studies have demonstrated associations between diabetes and the insulin/IGF2 locus or the IGF2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), the role of IGF2 in diabetes pathogenesis is not fully understood. We previously described that transgenic mice overexpressing IGF2 specifically in β-cells (Tg-IGF2) develop a pre-diabetic state. Here, we characterized the effects of IGF2 on β-cell functionality. Overexpression of IGF2 led to β-cell dedifferentiation and endoplasmic reticulum stress causing islet dysfunction in vivo. Both adenovirus-mediated overexpression of IGF2 and treatment of adult wild-type islets with recombinant IGF2 in vitro further confirmed the direct implication of IGF2 on β-cell dysfunction. Treatment of Tg-IGF2 mice with subdiabetogenic doses of streptozotocin or crossing these mice with a transgenic model of islet lymphocytic infiltration promoted the development of overt diabetes, suggesting that IGF2 makes islets more susceptible to β-cell damage and immune attack. These results indicate that increased local levels of IGF2 in pancreatic islets may predispose to the onset of diabetes. This study unravels an unprecedented role of IGF2 on β-cells function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Casellas
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Mallol
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Veronica Jimenez
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Garcia
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Agudo
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Obach
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Haurigot
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Vilà
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Molas
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricardo Lage
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Morró
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estefania Casana
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jesús Ruberte
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain Animal Health and Anatomy, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, 08193-Bellaterra and
| | - Fatima Bosch
- From the Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, 08036-Barcelona, Spain
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Rajapaksha H, Forbes BE. Ligand-Binding Affinity at the Insulin Receptor Isoform-A and Subsequent IR-A Tyrosine Phosphorylation Kinetics are Important Determinants of Mitogenic Biological Outcomes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:107. [PMID: 26217307 PMCID: PMC4493403 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin receptor (IR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that can mediate both metabolic and mitogenic biological actions. The IR isoform-A (IR-A) arises from alternative splicing of exon 11 and has different ligand binding and signaling properties compared to the IR isoform-B. The IR-A not only binds insulin but also insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) with high affinity. IGF-II acting through the IR-A promotes cancer cell proliferation, survival, and migration by activating some unique signaling molecules compared to those activated by insulin. This observation led us to investigate whether the different IR-A signaling outcomes in response to IGF-II and insulin could be attributed to phosphorylation of a different subset of IR-A tyrosine residues or to the phosphorylation kinetics. We correlated IR-A phosphorylation to activation of molecules involved in mitogenic and metabolic signaling (MAPK and Akt) and receptor internalization rates (related to mitogenic signaling). We also extended this study to incorporate two ligands that are known to promote predominantly mitogenic [(His(4), Tyr(15), Thr(49), Ile(51)) IGF-I, qIGF-I] or metabolic (S597 peptide) biological actions, to see if common mechanisms can be used to define mitogenic or metabolic signaling through the IR-A. The threefold lower mitogenic action of IGF-II compared to insulin was associated with a decreased potency in activation of Y960, Y1146, Y1150, Y1151, Y1316, and Y1322, in MAPK phosphorylation and in IR-A internalization. With the poorly mitogenic S597 peptide, it was a decreased rate of tyrosine phosphorylation rather than potency that was associated with a low mitogenic potential. We conclude that both decreased affinity of IR-A binding and kinetics of IR-A phosphorylation can independently lead to a lower mitogenic activity. None of the studied parameters could account for the lower metabolic activity of qIGF-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harinda Rajapaksha
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Briony E. Forbes
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Briony E. Forbes, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders University of South Australia, C/O Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders Drive, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia,
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Cox OT, O’Shea S, Tresse E, Bustamante-Garrido M, Kiran-Deevi R, O’Connor R. IGF-1 Receptor and Adhesion Signaling: An Important Axis in Determining Cancer Cell Phenotype and Therapy Resistance. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:106. [PMID: 26191041 PMCID: PMC4490239 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IGF-1R expression and activation levels generally cannot be correlated in cancer cells, suggesting that cellular proteins may modulate IGF-1R activity. Strong candidates for such modulation are found in cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion signaling complexes. Activated IGF-1R is present at focal adhesions, where it can stabilize β1 integrin and participate in signaling complexes that promote invasiveness associated with epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance to therapy. Whether IGF-1R contributes to EMT or to non-invasive tumor growth may be strongly influenced by the degree of extracellular matrix engagement and the presence or absence of key proteins in IGF-1R-cell adhesion complexes. One such protein is PDLIM2, which promotes both cell polarization and EMT by regulating the stability of transcription factors including NFκB, STATs, and beta catenin. PDLIM2 exhibits tumor suppressor activity, but is also highly expressed in certain invasive cancers. It is likely that distinct adhesion complex proteins modulate IGF-1R signaling during cancer progression or adaptive responses to therapy. Thus, identifying the key modulators will be important for developing effective therapeutic strategies and predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orla T. Cox
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sandra O’Shea
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Emilie Tresse
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Milan Bustamante-Garrido
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ravi Kiran-Deevi
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Rosemary O’Connor
- Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Rosemary O’Connor, Cell Biology Laboratory, BioSciences Institute, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland,
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De Marco P, Romeo E, Vivacqua A, Malaguarnera R, Abonante S, Romeo F, Pezzi V, Belfiore A, Maggiolini M. GPER1 is regulated by insulin in cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Endocr Relat Cancer 2014; 21:739-53. [PMID: 25012984 DOI: 10.1530/erc-14-0245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Elevated insulin levels have been associated with an increased cancer risk as well as with aggressive and metastatic cancer phenotypes characterized by a poor prognosis. Insulin stimulates the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of cancer cells through diverse transduction pathways, including estrogen signaling. As G protein estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) mediates rapid cell responses to estrogens, we evaluated the potential of insulin to regulate GPER1 expression and function in leiomyosarcoma cancer cells (SKUT-1) and breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which were used as a model system. We found that insulin transactivates the GPER1 promoter sequence and increases the mRNA and protein expression of GPER1 through the activation of the PRKCD/MAPK1/c-Fos/AP1 transduction pathway, as ascertained by means of specific pharmacological inhibitors and gene-silencing experiments. Moreover, cell migration triggered by insulin occurred through GPER1 and its main target gene CTGF, whereas the insulin-induced expression of GPER1 boosted cell-cycle progression and the glucose uptake stimulated by estrogens. Notably, a positive correlation between insulin serum levels and GPER1 expression was found in cancer fibroblasts obtained from breast cancer patients. Altogether, our data indicate that GPER1 may be included among the complex network of transduction signaling triggered by insulin that drives cells toward cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola De Marco
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Enrica Romeo
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Adele Vivacqua
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberta Malaguarnera
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Sergio Abonante
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesco Romeo
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pezzi
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of PharmacyHealth and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), ItalyRegional HospitalCosenza, ItalyEndocrinologyDepartment of Health, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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Rota LM, Albanito L, Shin ME, Goyeneche CL, Shushanov S, Gallagher EJ, LeRoith D, Lazzarino DA, Wood TL. IGF1R inhibition in mammary epithelia promotes canonical Wnt signaling and Wnt1-driven tumors. Cancer Res 2014; 74:5668-79. [PMID: 25092896 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-0970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive disease subtype that, unlike other subtypes, lacks an effective targeted therapy. Inhibitors of the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) have been considered for use in treating TNBC. Here, we provide genetic evidence that IGF1R inhibition promotes development of Wnt1-mediated murine mammary tumors that offer a model of TNBC. We found that in a double transgenic mouse model carrying activated Wnt1 and mutant Igf1r, a reduction in IGF1R signaling reduced tumor latency and promoted more aggressive phenotypes. These tumors displayed a squamous phenotype with increased expression of keratins 5/6 and β-catenin. Notably, cell lineage analyses revealed an increase in basal (CD29(hi)/CD24(+)) and luminal (CD24(+)/CD61+/CD29(lo)) progenitor cell populations, along with increased Nanog expression and decreased Elf5 expression. In these doubly transgenic mice, lung metastases developed with characteristics of the primary tumors, unlike MMTV-Wnt1 mice. Mechanistic investigations showed that pharmacologic inhibition of the IGF1R in vitro was sufficient to increase the tumorsphere-forming efficiency ofMMTV-Wnt1 tumor cells. Tumors from doubly transgenic mice also exhibited an increase in the expression ratio of the IGF-II-sensitive, A isoform of the insulin receptor versus the IR-B isoform, which when stimulated in vitro resulted in enhanced expression of β-catenin. Overall, our results revealed that in Wnt-driven tumors, an attenuation of IGF1R signaling accelerates tumorigenesis and promotes more aggressive phenotypes with potential implications for understanding TNBC pathobiology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Rota
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Lidia Albanito
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Marcus E Shin
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Corey L Goyeneche
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Sain Shushanov
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Emily J Gallagher
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Diseases, The Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine, Icahn Sinai School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Derek LeRoith
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Diseases, The Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine, Icahn Sinai School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Deborah A Lazzarino
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Teresa L Wood
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School Cancer Center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey.
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Livingstone C, Borai A. Insulin-like growth factor-II: its role in metabolic and endocrine disease. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2014; 80:773-81. [PMID: 24593700 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) is a widely expressed 7·5 kDa mitogenic peptide hormone. Although it is abundant in serum, understanding of its physiological role is limited compared with that of IGF-I. IGF-II regulates foetal development and differentiation, but its role in adults is less well understood. Evidence suggests roles in a number of tissues including skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, bone and ovary. Altered IGF-II expression has been observed in metabolic conditions, notably obesity, diabetes and the polycystic ovary syndrome. This article summarizes what is known about the actions of IGF-II and its dysregulation in metabolic and endocrine diseases. The possible causes and consequences of dysregulation are discussed along with the implications for diagnostic tests and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callum Livingstone
- Peptide Hormones Supraregional Assay Service (SAS), Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Trust, Guildford, UK; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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37
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Ziegler AN, Chidambaram S, Forbes BE, Wood TL, Levison SW. Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) and IGF-II analogs with enhanced insulin receptor-a binding affinity promote neural stem cell expansion. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:4626-33. [PMID: 24398690 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.537597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to employ genetically engineered IGF-II analogs to establish which receptor(s) mediate the stemness promoting actions of IGF-II on mouse subventricular zone neural precursors. Neural precursors from the subventricular zone were propagated in vitro in culture medium supplemented with IGF-II analogs. Cell growth and identity were analyzed using sphere generation and further analyzed by flow cytometry. F19A, an analog of IGF-II that does not bind the IGF-2R, stimulated an increase in the proportion of neural stem cells (NSCs) while decreasing the proportion of the later stage progenitors at a lower concentration than IGF-II. V43M, which binds to the IGF-2R with high affinity but which has low binding affinity to the IGF-1R and to the A isoform of the insulin receptor (IR-A) failed to promote NSC growth. The positive effects of F19A on NSC growth were unaltered by the addition of a functional blocking antibody to the IGF-1R. Altogether, these data lead to the conclusion that IGF-II promotes stemness of NSCs via the IR-A and not through activation of either the IGF-1R or the IGF-2R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber N Ziegler
- From the Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey 07103-1709 and
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Morcavallo A, Stefanello M, Iozzo RV, Belfiore A, Morrione A. Ligand-mediated endocytosis and trafficking of the insulin-like growth factor receptor I and insulin receptor modulate receptor function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:220. [PMID: 25566192 PMCID: PMC4269189 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor system and its two major receptors, the IGF receptor I (IGF-IR) and IR, plays a central role in a variety of physiological cellular processes including growth, differentiation, motility, and glucose homeostasis. The IGF-IR is also essential for tumorigenesis through its capacity to protect cancer cells from apoptosis. The IR is expressed in two isoforms: the IR isoform A (IR-A) and isoform B (IR-B). While the role of the IR-B in the regulation of metabolic effects has been known for several years, more recent evidence suggests that the IR, and in particular the IR-A, may be involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Ligand-mediated endocytosis of tyrosine-kinases receptors plays a critical role in modulating the duration and intensity of receptors action but while the signaling pathways induced by the IGF-IR and IR are quite characterized, very little is still known about the mechanisms and proteins that regulate ligand-induced IGF-IR and IR endocytosis and trafficking. In addition, how these processes affect receptor downstream signaling has not been fully characterized. Here, we discuss the current understanding of the mechanisms and proteins regulating IGF-IR and IR endocytosis and sorting and their implications in modulating ligand-induced biological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaide Morcavallo
- Departments of Urology, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Health Sciences and Endocrinology, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Manuela Stefanello
- Departments of Urology, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Health Sciences and Endocrinology, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Renato V. Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Department of Health Sciences and Endocrinology, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Departments of Urology, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Sydney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- *Correspondence: Andrea Morrione, Biology of Prostate Cancer Program, Department of Urology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, 233 South 10th Street, BLSB Room 620, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA e-mail:
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Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a 7.5 kDa mitogenic peptide hormone expressed by liver and many other tissues. It is three times more abundant in serum than IGF1, but our understanding of its physiological and pathological roles has lagged behind that of IGF1. Expression of the IGF2 gene is strictly regulated. Over-expression occurs in many cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis. Elevated serum IGF2 is also associated with increased risk of developing various cancers including colorectal, breast, prostate and lung. There is established clinical utility for IGF2 measurement in the diagnosis of non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia, a condition characterised by a molar IGF2:IGF1 ratio >10. Recent advances in understanding of the pathophysiology of IGF2 in cancer have suggested much novel clinical utility for its measurement. Measurement of IGF2 in blood and genetic and epigenetic tests of the IGF2 gene may help assess cancer risk and prognosis. Further studies will determine whether these tests enter clinical practice. New therapeutic approaches are being developed to target IGF2 action. This review provides a clinical perspective on IGF2 and an update on recent research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callum Livingstone
- Peptide Hormones Supraregional Assay Service (SAS), Clinical Biochemistry Department, Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Trust, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XX, UK Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 5XH, UK
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Westley RL, May FEB. A twenty-first century cancer epidemic caused by obesity: the involvement of insulin, diabetes, and insulin-like growth factors. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:632461. [PMID: 23983688 PMCID: PMC3747439 DOI: 10.1155/2013/632461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the developed world. The progression from obesity to diabetes mellitus type 2, via metabolic syndrome, is recognised, and the significant associated increase in the risk of major human cancers acknowledged. We review the molecular basis of the involvement of morbidly high concentrations of endogenous or therapeutic insulin and of insulin-like growth factors in the progression from obesity to diabetes and finally to cancer. Epidemiological and biochemical studies establish the role of insulin and hyperinsulinaemia in cancer risk and progression. Insulin-like growth factors, IGF-1 and IGF-2, secreted by visceral or mammary adipose tissue have significant paracrine and endocrine effects. These effects can be exacerbated by increased steroid hormone production. Structural studies elucidate how each of the three ligands, insulin, IGF-1, and IGF-2, interacts differently with isoforms A and B of the insulin receptor and with type I IGF receptor and explain how these protagonists contribute to diabetes-associated cancer. The above should inform appropriate treatment of cancers that arise in obese individuals and in those with diabetes mellitus type 2. Novel drugs that target the insulin and insulin-like growth factor signal transduction pathways are in clinical trial and should be effective if appropriate biomarker-informed patient stratification is implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalyne L. Westley
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Felicity E. B. May
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
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Djiogue S, Nwabo Kamdje AH, Vecchio L, Kipanyula MJ, Farahna M, Aldebasi Y, Seke Etet PF. Insulin resistance and cancer: the role of insulin and IGFs. Endocr Relat Cancer 2013. [PMID: 23207292 DOI: 10.1530/erc-12-0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Insulin, IGF1, and IGF2 are the most studied insulin-like peptides (ILPs). These are evolutionary conserved factors well known as key regulators of energy metabolism and growth, with crucial roles in insulin resistance-related metabolic disorders such as obesity, diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as associated immune deregulations. A growing body of evidence suggests that insulin and IGF1 receptors mediate their effects on regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, glucose transport, and energy metabolism by signaling downstream through insulin receptor substrate molecules and thus play a pivotal role in cell fate determination. Despite the emerging evidence from epidemiological studies on the possible relationship between insulin resistance and cancer, our understanding on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that might account for this relationship remains incompletely understood. The involvement of IGFs in carcinogenesis is attributed to their role in linking high energy intake, increased cell proliferation, and suppression of apoptosis to cancer risks, which has been proposed as the key mechanism bridging insulin resistance and cancer. The present review summarizes and discusses evidence highlighting recent advances in our understanding on the role of ILPs as the link between insulin resistance and cancer and between immune deregulation and cancer in obesity, as well as those areas where there remains a paucity of data. It is anticipated that issues discussed in this paper will also recover new therapeutic targets that can assist in diagnostic screening and novel approaches to controlling tumor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sefirin Djiogue
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University of Yaoundé 1, PO Box 812, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Varewijck AJ, Brugts MP, Frystyk J, Goudzwaard JA, Uitterlinden P, Waaijers AM, Feng Y, Dimitrov DS, Lamberts SW, Hofland LJ, Janssen JA. Circulating insulin-like growth factors may contribute substantially to insulin receptor isoform A and insulin receptor isoform B signalling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 365:17-24. [PMID: 22982059 PMCID: PMC6959542 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a fraction of circulating insulin-like activity is due to insulin itself. The aim of this study was to determine total serum insulin-like activity mediated via the insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A) and isoform B (IR-B) by using kinase receptor activation (KIRA) assays specific for the IR-A and IR-B. METHODS The IR-A and IR-B KIRA assays use human embryonic kidney cells which have been transfected with the human IR-A or IR-B gene and quantify serum-mediated phosphorylation of the IR. RESULTS Both IR KIRA assays were sensitive (detection limit 32 pmol/L) and precise (intra- and inter assay CV: <12% and <15%). The EC₅₀s of insulin, IGF-I and IGF-II were 1.4, 11.2 and 6.7 nmol/L for the IR-A KIRA assay, and 1.3, 31.0 and 15.7 nmol/L for the IR-B KIRA assay. The operational range of both assays allowed for determination of total insulin-like activity in human serum. Analysis of serum samples showed that there was a significant positive correlation between serum insulin-like and immunoreactive insulin concentrations (IR-A: r = 0.56, p = 0.01, IR-B: r = 0.68, p = 0.001). Importantly, addition of IGF-I or IGF-II antibodies to human serum samples could substantially decrease the endpoint signal in both KIRA assays. CONCLUSIONS We showed that serum IGF-I and IGF-II may substantially contribute to IR signalling. Since IR isoform specific KIRA assays also take into account the contribution of IGFs present in serum on IR signalling, they may help to gain more insight into the roles of IGF mediated IR-A and IR-B activation in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee J. Varewijck
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael P. Brugts
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Frystyk
- The Medical Research Laboratories, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jeannette A. Goudzwaard
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter Uitterlinden
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adriana M. Waaijers
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yang Feng
- Protein Interactions Group, CCRNP, NCI-Frederick, NIH, Frederick, MD 21702, United States
| | - Dimiter S. Dimitrov
- Protein Interactions Group, CCRNP, NCI-Frederick, NIH, Frederick, MD 21702, United States
| | - Steven W.J. Lamberts
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leo J. Hofland
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joseph A.M.J.L. Janssen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Corresponding author. Address: Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Room D-443, ‘s-Gravendijkwal 230, 3015 CE Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 (0)10 7033975; fax: +31 (0)10 7033268. (J.A.M.J.L. Janssen)
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Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest a positive association between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) with the risk of cancer and cancer-related mortality. Insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, increased levels of IGF, elevated levels of steroid and peptide hormones, and inflammatory markers appear to play a role in the connection between these different diseases. Medications, such as metformin and exogenous insulin, used to treat T2D may affect the risk of cancer and cancer-related mortality. Newer therapies targeting the insulin and IGF1 systems are being developed for use in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dara Hope Cohen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Diseases, The Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029, USA
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Alberini CM, Chen DY. Memory enhancement: consolidation, reconsolidation and insulin-like growth factor 2. Trends Neurosci 2012; 35:274-83. [PMID: 22341662 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2011.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2011] [Revised: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 12/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Life and societies would change significantly if memory capacity or persistence in health and disease could be enhanced. It has been known for many years that memory can be improved and strengthened. Substances known to enhance memory include hormones, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and metabolic substrates. Recently, attention has been given to identifying the molecular mechanisms and targets whereby memory enhancement can be achieved. One approach would be to target the physiological changes that are induced by learning and naturally required for memory strengthening via consolidation and reconsolidation. Here, we review approaches that boost memories by targeting the cAMP response element binding protein-CCAAT enhancer binding protein (CREB-C/EBP) pathway and/or its recently identified target gene insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2).
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45
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Morcavallo A, Genua M, Palummo A, Kletvikova E, Jiracek J, Brzozowski AM, Iozzo RV, Belfiore A, Morrione A. Insulin and insulin-like growth factor II differentially regulate endocytic sorting and stability of insulin receptor isoform A. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:11422-36. [PMID: 22318726 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.252478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin receptor isoform A (IR-A) binds both insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II, although the affinity for IGF-II is 3-10-fold lower than insulin depending on a cell and tissue context. Notably, in mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking the IGF-IR and expressing solely the IR-A (R-/IR-A), IGF-II is a more potent mitogen than insulin. As receptor endocytosis and degradation provide spatial and temporal regulation of signaling events, we hypothesized that insulin and IGF-II could affect IR-A biological responses by differentially regulating IR-A trafficking. Using R-/IR-A cells, we discovered that insulin evoked significant IR-A internalization, a process modestly affected by IGF-II. However, the differential internalization was not due to IR-A ubiquitination. Notably, prolonged stimulation of R-/IR-A cells with insulin, but not with IGF-II, targeted the receptor to a degradative pathway. Similarly, the docking protein insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) was down-regulated after prolonged insulin but not IGF-II exposure. Similar results were also obtained in experiments using [NMeTyr(B26)]-insulin, an insulin analog with IR-A binding affinity similar to IGF-II. Finally, we discovered that IR-A was internalized through clathrin-dependent and -independent pathways, which differentially regulated the activation of downstream effectors. Collectively, our results suggest that a lower affinity of IGF-II for the IR-A promotes lower IR-A phosphorylation and activation of early downstream effectors vis à vis insulin but may protect IR-A and IRS-1 from down-regulation thereby evoking sustained and robust mitogenic stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaide Morcavallo
- Department of Urology and Endocrine Mechanisms and Hormone Action Program, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA
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Cianfarani S. Insulin-like growth factor-II: new roles for an old actor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:118. [PMID: 23060858 PMCID: PMC3462314 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II), traditionally considered as a growth factor implicated in growth of fetal tissues and cancer cells, is now emerging as a potential metabolic regulator. The aim of this overview is to provide the available evidence, obtained in both experimental conditions and in humans, for a role of IGF-II in the fine-tuning of metabolism and body composition. The underlying mechanisms and the potential clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cianfarani
- Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata UniversityRome, Italy
- Molecular Endocrinology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s HospitalRome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Stefano Cianfarani, Molecular Endocrinology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy. e-mail:
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Malaguarnera R, Belfiore A. The insulin receptor: a new target for cancer therapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2011; 2:93. [PMID: 22654833 PMCID: PMC3356071 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2011.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 11/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A large body of evidences have shown that both the IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) and the insulin receptor (IR) play a role in cancer development and progression. In particular, IR overactivation by IGF-II is common in cancer cells, especially in dedifferentiated/stem-like cells. In spite of these findings, until very recently, only IGF-IR but not IR has been considered a target in cancer therapy. Although several preclinical studies have showed a good anti-cancer activity of selective anti-IGF-IR drugs, the results of the clinical first trials have been disappointing. In fact, only a small subset of malignant tumors has shown an objective response to these therapies. Development of resistance to anti-IGF-IR drugs may include upregulation of IR isoform A (IR-A) in cancer cells and its overactivation by increased secretion of autocrine IGF-II. These findings have led to the concept that co-targeting IR together with IGF-IR may increase therapy efficacy and prevent adaptive resistance to selective anti-IGF-IR drugs. IR blockade should be especially considered in tumors with high IR-A:IGF-IR ratio and high levels of autocrine IGF-II. Conversely, insulin sensitizers, which ameliorate insulin resistance associated with metabolic disorders and cancer treatments, may have important implications for cancer prevention and management. Only few drugs co-targeting the IR and IGF-IR are currently available. Ideally, future IR targeting strategies should be able to selectively inhibit the tumor promoting effects of IR without impairing its metabolic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Malaguarnera
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Magna Graecia of CatanzaroCatanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Magna Graecia of CatanzaroCatanzaro, Italy
- *Correspondence: Antonino Belfiore, Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro, Campus Universitario, Viale Europa, località Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy. e-mail:
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