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Wang W, Ding M, Wang Q, Song Y, Huo K, Chen X, Xiang Z, Liu L. Advances in Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Foxp3+ Treg) and key factors in digestive malignancies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1404974. [PMID: 38919615 PMCID: PMC11196412 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1404974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Foxp3+ Treg) play a role in regulating various types of tumors, but uncertainty still exists regarding the exact mechanism underlying Foxp3+ Treg activation in gastrointestinal malignancies. As of now, research has shown that Foxp3+ Treg expression, altered glucose metabolism, or a hypoxic tumor microenvironment all affect Foxp3+ Treg function in the bodies of tumor patients. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that post-translational modifications are essential for mature Foxp3 to function properly. Additionally, a considerable number of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been implicated in the activation of the Foxp3 signaling pathway. These mechanisms regulating Foxp3 may one day serve as potential therapeutic targets for gastrointestinal malignancies. This review primarily focuses on the properties and capabilities of Foxp3 and Foxp3+Treg. It emphasizes the advancement of research on the regulatory mechanisms of Foxp3 in different malignant tumors of the digestive system, providing new insights for the exploration of anticancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Minglu Ding
- Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qiuhong Wang
- Mudanjiang Hospital for Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Anesthesiology, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yidan Song
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Keyuan Huo
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaojie Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zihan Xiang
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Lantao Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, China
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2
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Zhang H, Winter P, Wartmann T, Simioni L, Al-Madhi S, Perrakis A, Croner RS, Shi W, Yu Q, Kahlert UD. Unlocking Clinical Insights: Lymphocyte-Specific Protein Tyrosine Kinase Candidates as Promising Therapeutic Targets for Pancreatic Cancer Risk Stratification. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2024. [PMID: 38837745 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2024.0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Uncover the pivotal link between lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (Lck)-related genes and clinical risk stratification in pancreatic cancer. Methods: This study identifies shared genes between differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and Lck-related genes in pancreatic cancer using a methodological framework rooted in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Feature gene selection is accomplished and a signature model is constructed. Statistical significant clinical endpoints such as overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and progression-free interval (PFI) were defined. Results: After performing random survival forest, Lasso regression, and multivariate Cox regression model, 7 trait genes out of 272 Lck-associated DEGs are selected to create a signature model that is independent of other clinical factors and can predict OS and DSS. It appears that high-risk patients have activated the TP53 signaling pathway and the cell cycle signaling pathway. LAMA3 turned out to be the hub gene of the signature with high expression in pancreatic cancer. Patients with increased expression of LAMA3 had a short OS, DSS, and PFI in comparison. The candidate competing endogenous RNA network of LAMA3 turned out to be OPI5-AS1/hsa-miR-186-5p/LAMA3 axis. Conclusions: A characteristic signature of seven Lck-related genes, especially LAMA3, has been shown to be a key factor in clinical risk stratification for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu City, China
| | - Paul Winter
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Wartmann
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Luca Simioni
- Institute for molecular and clinical immunology, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sara Al-Madhi
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Aris Perrakis
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Roland S Croner
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Wenjie Shi
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Quan Yu
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ulf D Kahlert
- Molecular and Experimental Surgery, University Clinic for General-, Visceral-, Vascular- and Trans-Plantation Surgery, Medical Faculty University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto-von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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3
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Liu J, Zhang B, Zhang G, Shang D. Reprogramming of regulatory T cells in inflammatory tumor microenvironment: can it become immunotherapy turning point? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1345838. [PMID: 38449875 PMCID: PMC10915070 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1345838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and identifying widely used immunosuppressants with minimal side effects are two major challenges currently hampering cancer immunotherapy. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are present in almost all cancer tissues and play an important role in preserving autoimmune tolerance and tissue homeostasis. The tumor inflammatory microenvironment causes the reprogramming of Tregs, resulting in the conversion of Tregs to immunosuppressive phenotypes. This process ultimately facilitates tumor immune escape or tumor progression. However, current systemic Treg depletion therapies may lead to severe autoimmune toxicity. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the mechanism of Treg reprogramming and develop immunotherapies that selectively target Tregs within tumors. This article provides a comprehensive review of the potential mechanisms involved in Treg cell reprogramming and explores the application of Treg cell immunotherapy. The interference with reprogramming pathways has shown promise in reducing the number of tumor-associated Tregs or impairing their function during immunotherapy, thereby improving anti-tumor immune responses. Furthermore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive Treg cell reprogramming could reveal new molecular targets for future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Guolin Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dong Shang
- Department of General Surgery, Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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4
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Gao C, Zhu H, Gong P, Wu C, Xu X, Zhu X. The functions of FOXP transcription factors and their regulation by post-translational modifications. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194992. [PMID: 37797785 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The forkhead box subfamily P (FOXP) of transcription factors, consisting of FOXP1, FOXP2, FOXP3, and FOXP4, is involved in the regulation of multisystemic functioning. Disruption of the transcriptional activity of FOXP proteins leads to neurodevelopmental disorders and immunological diseases, as well as the suppression or promotion of carcinogenesis. The transcriptional activities of FOXP proteins are directly or indirectly regulated by diverse post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, O-GlcNAcylation, and methylation. Here, we discuss how post-translational modifications modulate the multiple functions of FOXP proteins and examine the implications for tumorigenesis and cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congwen Gao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China; College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China
| | - Peng Gong
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors & Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China
| | - Chen Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Xingzhi Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China.
| | - Xuefei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors & Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China.
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5
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Golzari-Sorkheh M, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC. Development and function of FOXP3+ regulators of immune responses. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 213:13-22. [PMID: 37085947 PMCID: PMC10324550 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The Forkhead Box P3 (FOXP3) protein is an essential transcription factor for the development and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs), involved in the maintenance of immunological tolerance. Although extensive research over the last decade has investigated the critical role of FOXP3+ cells in preserving immune homeostasis, our understanding of their specific functions remains limited. Therefore, unveiling the molecular mechanisms underpinning the up- and downstream transcriptional regulation of and by FOXP3 is crucial for developing Treg-targeted therapeutics. Dysfunctions in FOXP3+ Tregs have also been found to be inherent drivers of autoimmune disorders and have been shown to exhibit multifaceted functions in the context of cancer. Recent research suggests that these cells may also be involved in tissue-specific repair and regeneration. Herein, we summarize current understanding of the thymic-transcriptional regulatory landscape of FOXP3+ Tregs, their epigenetic modulators, and associated signaling pathways. Finally, we highlight the contributions of FOXP3 on the functional development of Tregs and reflect on the clinical implications in the context of pathological and physiological immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Carlos Zúñiga-Pflücker
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Biological Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
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6
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Interactions of IDO and the Kynurenine Pathway with Cell Transduction Systems and Metabolism at the Inflammation-Cancer Interface. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112895. [PMID: 37296860 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying a relationship between inflammation and cancer are unclear, but much emphasis has been placed on the role of tryptophan metabolism to kynurenine and downstream metabolites, as these make a substantial contribution to the regulation of immune tolerance and susceptibility to cancer. The proposed link is supported by the induction of tryptophan metabolism by indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) or tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), in response to injury, infection or stress. This review will summarize the kynurenine pathway and will then focus on the bi-directional interactions with other transduction pathways and cancer-related factors. The kynurenine pathway can interact with and modify activity in many other transduction systems, potentially generating an extended web of effects other than the direct effects of kynurenine and its metabolites. Conversely, the pharmacological targeting of those other systems could greatly enhance the efficacy of changes in the kynurenine pathway. Indeed, manipulating those interacting pathways could affect inflammatory status and tumor development indirectly via the kynurenine pathway, while pharmacological modulation of the kynurenine pathway could indirectly influence anti-cancer protection. While current efforts are progressing to account for the failure of selective IDO1 inhibitors to inhibit tumor growth and to devise means of circumventing the issue, it is clear that there are wider factors involving the relationship between kynurenines and cancer that merit detailed consideration as alternative drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
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7
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Cruz P, Paredes N, Asela I, Kolimi N, Molina JA, Ramírez-Sarmiento CA, Goutam R, Huang G, Medina E, Sanabria H. Domain tethering impacts dimerization and DNA-mediated allostery in the human transcription factor FoxP1. J Chem Phys 2023; 158:2890482. [PMID: 37184020 DOI: 10.1063/5.0138782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors are multidomain proteins with specific DNA binding and regulatory domains. In the human FoxP subfamily (FoxP1, FoxP2, FoxP3, and FoxP4) of transcription factors, a 90 residue-long disordered region links a Leucine Zipper (ZIP)-known to form coiled-coil dimers-and a Forkhead (FKH) domain-known to form domain swapping dimers. We used replica exchange discrete molecular dynamics simulations, single-molecule fluorescence experiments, and other biophysical tools to understand how domain tethering in FoxP1 impacts dimerization at ZIP and FKH domains and how DNA binding allosterically regulates their dimerization. We found that domain tethering promotes FoxP1 dimerization but inhibits a FKH domain-swapped structure. Furthermore, our findings indicate that the linker mediates the mutual organization and dynamics of ZIP and FKH domains, forming closed and open states with and without interdomain contacts, thus highlighting the role of the linkers in multidomain proteins. Finally, we found that DNA allosterically promotes structural changes that decrease the dimerization propensity of FoxP1. We postulate that, upon DNA binding, the interdomain linker plays a crucial role in the gene regulatory function of FoxP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perla Cruz
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Casilla 653, Santiago 7800003, Chile
| | - Nicolás Paredes
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Casilla 653, Santiago 7800003, Chile
| | - Isabel Asela
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Casilla 653, Santiago 7800003, Chile
| | - Narendar Kolimi
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA
| | - José Alejandro Molina
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- ANID - Millennium Science Initiative Program - Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Santiago 7820436, Chile
| | - César A Ramírez-Sarmiento
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- ANID - Millennium Science Initiative Program - Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Santiago 7820436, Chile
| | - Rajen Goutam
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA
| | - Gangton Huang
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA
| | - Exequiel Medina
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Casilla 653, Santiago 7800003, Chile
| | - Hugo Sanabria
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA
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8
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Integrative and Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis of Lymphocyte-Specific Protein Tyrosine Kinase in Human Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213998. [PMID: 36430477 PMCID: PMC9697346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK) is common in a variety of hematologic malignancies but comparatively less common in solid tumors. This study aimed to explore the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of LCK across tumors through integrative and comprehensive pan-cancer analysis, as well as experimental validation. Multiple databases were used to explore the expression, alteration, prognostic value, association with immune infiltration, and potential functional pathways of LCK in pan-cancers. The results were further validated by western blotting and qPCR of patient samples as well as tumor cell lines. High LCK expression typically represents a better prognosis. Notably, drug sensitivity prediction of LCK identified P-529 as a candidate for drug development. Gene Annotations (GO) and KEGG analyses showed significant enrichment of PD-L1 and the T-cell receptor pathway. The results from patient samples and tumor cell lines confirmed these conclusions in LIHC. In conclusion, LCK is differentially expressed in multiple tumors and normal tissues. Further analysis highlighted its association with prognostic implications, pan-cancer genetic alterations, and immune signatures. Our data provide evidence for a diagnostic marker of LCK and the possible use of LCK as a target for the treatment of tumors.
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9
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Zhang Z, Bu L, Luo J, Guo J. Targeting protein kinases benefits cancer immunotherapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188738. [PMID: 35660645 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule kinase inhibitors have been well established and successfully developed in the last decades for cancer target therapies. However, intrinsic or acquired drug resistance is becoming the major barrier for their clinical application. With the development of immunotherapies, in particular the discovery of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the combination of ICIs with other therapies have recently been extensively explored, among which combination of ICIs with kinase inhibitors achieves promising clinical outcome in a plethora of cancer types. Here we comprehensively summarize the potent roles of protein kinases in modulating immune checkpoints both in tumor and immune cells, and reshaping tumor immune microenvironments by evoking innate immune response and neoantigen generation or presentation. Moreover, the clinical trial and approval of combined administration of kinase inhibitors with ICIs are collected, highlighting the precise strategies to benefit cancer immune therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengkun Zhang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China; Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Lang Bu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Junhang Luo
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
| | - Jianping Guo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
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10
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Le Menn G, Jabłońska A, Chen Z. The effects of post-translational modifications on Th17/Treg cell differentiation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119223. [PMID: 35120998 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells and Th17 cells are subsets of CD4+ T cells which play an essential role in immune homeostasis and infection. Dysregulation of the Th17/Treg cell balance was shown to be implicated in the development and progression of several disorders such as autoimmune disease, inflammatory disease, and cancer. Multiple factors, including T cell receptor (TCR) signals, cytokines, metabolic and epigenetic regulators can influence the differentiation of Th17 and Treg cells and affect their balance. Accumulating evidence indicates that the activity of key molecules such as forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), the retinoic acid-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt), and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)s are modulated by the number of post-translational modifications (PTMs) such as phosphorylation, methylation, nitrosylation, acetylation, glycosylation, lipidation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation. PTMs might affect the protein folding efficiency and protein conformational stability, and consequently determine protein structure, localization, and function. Here, we review the recent progress in our understanding of how PTMs modify the key molecules involved in the Th17/Treg cell differentiation, regulate the Th17/Treg balance, and initiate autoimmune diseases caused by dysregulation of the Th17/Treg balance. A better understanding of Th17/Treg regulation may help to develop novel potential therapeutics to treat immune-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenaëlle Le Menn
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Agnieszka Jabłońska
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, University of Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Zhi Chen
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, University of Gdańsk, Poland.
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11
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Forkhead Box Protein P3 (FOXP3) Represses ATF3 Transcriptional Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111400. [PMID: 34768829 PMCID: PMC8583784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), a transcription factor and acute stress sensor, is rapidly induced by a variety of pathophysiological signals and is essential in the complex processes in cellular stress response. FOXP3, a well-known breast and prostate tumor suppressor from the X chromosome, is a novel transcriptional repressor for several oncogenes. However, it remains unknown whether ATF3 is the target protein of FOXP3. Herein, we demonstrate that ATF3 expression is regulated by FOXP3. Firstly, we observed that overexpression of FOXP3 reduced ATF3 protein level. Moreover, knockdown FOXP3 by siRNA increased ATF3 expression. Secondly, FOXP3 dose-dependently reduced ATF3 promoter activity in the luciferase reporter assay. Since FOXP3 is regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs), we next investigated whether PTMs affect FOXP3-mediated ATF3 expression. Interestingly, we observed that phosphorylation mutation on FOXP3 (Y342F) significantly abolished FOXP3-mediated ATF3 expression. However, other PTM mutations on FOXP3, including S418 phosphorylation, K263 acetylation and ubiquitination, and K268 acetylation and ubiquitination, did not alter FOXP3-mediated ATF3 expression. Finally, the FOXP3 binding site was found on ATF3 promoter region by deletion and mutagenesis analysis. Taken together, our results suggest that FOXP3 functions as a novel regulator of ATF3 and that this novel event may be involved in tumor development and progression.
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12
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Zhang W, Liu X, Zhu Y, Liu X, Gu Y, Dai X, Li B. Transcriptional and posttranslational regulation of Th17/Treg balance in health and disease. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2137-2150. [PMID: 34322865 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202048794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper type 17 (Th17) cells play important roles in adaptive immune responses, antagonizing each other in immune disorders. Th17/Treg balance is critical to maintaining the immune homeostasis of human bodies and is tightly regulated under healthy conditions. The transcription factors that are required for driving Th17 and Treg cell lineages differentiation respectively, RORγt and FOXP3 are tightly regulated under different tissue microenvironment, especially the transcriptional induction, posttranslational modifications, and dynamic enzymatic cofactors binding. The imbalance caused by alteration of the quantity or properties of RORγt+ Th17 or FOXP3+ Treg can contribute to inflammatory disorders in humans. Restoring Th17/Treg balance by modifying the enzymatic activities of RORγt and FOXP3 binding partners may be therapeutically applied to treat severe immune disorders. In this review, we focus on the transcriptional and posttranslational regulations of Th17/Treg balance, immune disorders caused by Th17/Treg imbalance, and new therapeutic strategies for restoring immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Zhang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yicheng Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinnan Liu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunting Gu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyu Dai
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Weiße J, Rosemann J, Müller L, Kappler M, Eckert AW, Glaß M, Misiak D, Hüttelmaier S, Ballhausen WG, Hatzfeld M, Haemmerle M, Gutschner T. Identification of lymphocyte cell-specific protein-tyrosine kinase (LCK) as a driver for invasion and migration of oral cancer by tumor heterogeneity exploitation. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:88. [PMID: 34116687 PMCID: PMC8194179 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01384-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer metastases are the main cause of lethality. The five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed with advanced stage oral cancer is 30%. Hence, the identification of novel therapeutic targets is an urgent need. However, tumors are comprised of a heterogeneous collection of cells with distinct genetic and molecular profiles that can differentially promote metastasis making therapy development a challenging task. Here, we leveraged intratumoral heterogeneity in order to identify drivers of cancer cell motility that might be druggable targets for anti-metastasis therapy. METHODS We used 2D migration and 3D matrigel-based invasion assays to characterize the invasive heterogeneity among and within four human oral cancer cell lines in vitro. Subsequently, we applied mRNA-sequencing to map the transcriptomes of poorly and strongly invasive subclones as well as primary tumors and matched metastasis. RESULTS We identified SAS cells as a highly invasive oral cancer cell line. Clonal analysis of SAS yielded a panel of 20 subclones with different invasive capacities. Integrative gene expression analysis identified the Lymphocyte cell-specific protein-tyrosine kinase (LCK) as a druggable target gene associated with cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Inhibition of LCK using A-770041 or dasatinib blocked invasion of highly aggressive SAS cells. Interestingly, reduction of LCK activity increased the formation of adherens junctions and induced cell differentiation. CONCLUSION Analysis of invasive heterogeneity led to the discovery of LCK as an important regulator of motility in oral cancer cells. Hence, small molecule mediated inhibition of LCK could be a promising anti-metastasis therapy option for oral cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Weiße
- Junior Research Group 'RNA biology and pathogenesis', Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Julia Rosemann
- Junior Research Group 'RNA biology and pathogenesis', Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Lisa Müller
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Pathobiochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Matthias Kappler
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Alexander W Eckert
- Department of Cranio Maxillofacial Surgery, Paracelsus Medical University, 90471, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Markus Glaß
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Molecular Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Danny Misiak
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Molecular Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Stefan Hüttelmaier
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Molecular Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Wolfgang G Ballhausen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Molecular Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Mechthild Hatzfeld
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Section for Pathobiochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Monika Haemmerle
- Institute of Pathology, Section for Experimental Pathology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112, Halle, Germany
| | - Tony Gutschner
- Junior Research Group 'RNA biology and pathogenesis', Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle, Germany.
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14
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Grover P, Goel PN, Piccirillo CA, Greene MI. FOXP3 and Tip60 Structural Interactions Relevant to IPEX Development Lead to Potential Therapeutics to Increase FOXP3 Dependent Suppressor T Cell Functions. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:607292. [PMID: 33614551 PMCID: PMC7888439 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.607292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells play a role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis and are critical mediators of immune tolerance. The Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) protein acts as a regulator for Treg development and function. Mutations in the FOXP3 gene can lead to autoimmune diseases such as Immunodysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, and X-linked (IPEX) syndrome in humans, often resulting in death within the first 2 years of life and a scurfy like phenotype in Foxp3 mutant mice. We discuss biochemical features of the FOXP3 ensemble including its regulation at various levels (epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-translational modifications) and molecular functions. The studies also highlight the interactions of FOXP3 and Tat-interacting protein 60 (Tip60), a principal histone acetylase enzyme that acetylates FOXP3 and functions as an essential subunit of the FOXP3 repression ensemble complex. Lastly, we have emphasized the role of allosteric modifiers that help stabilize FOXP3:Tip60 interactions and discuss targeting this interaction for the therapeutic manipulation of Treg activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Grover
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peeyush N Goel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ciriaco A Piccirillo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Program in Infectious Diseases and Immunology in Global Health, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Centre of Excellence in Translational Immunology (CETI), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Mark I Greene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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15
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Kim JH, Hwang J, Jung JH, Lee HJ, Lee DY, Kim SH. Molecular networks of FOXP family: dual biologic functions, interplay with other molecules and clinical implications in cancer progression. Mol Cancer 2019; 18:180. [PMID: 31815635 PMCID: PMC6900861 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-019-1110-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Though Forkhead box P (FOXP) transcription factors comprising of FOXP1, FOXP2, FOXP3 and FOXP4 are involved in the embryonic development, immune disorders and cancer progression, the underlying function of FOXP3 targeting CD4 + CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and the dual roles of FOXP proteins as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor are unclear and controversial in cancers to date. Thus, the present review highlighted research history, dual roles of FOXP proteins as a tumor suppressor or an oncogene, their molecular networks with other proteins and noncoding RNAs, cellular immunotherapy targeting FOXP3, and clinical implications in cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Ha Kim
- Cancer Molecular Target Herbal Research Lab, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee university, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisung Hwang
- Cancer Molecular Target Herbal Research Lab, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee university, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Jung
- Cancer Molecular Target Herbal Research Lab, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee university, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jung Lee
- Cancer Molecular Target Herbal Research Lab, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee university, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Young Lee
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, Rural Development Administration, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Kim
- Cancer Molecular Target Herbal Research Lab, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee university, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Deng G, Song X, Fujimoto S, Piccirillo CA, Nagai Y, Greene MI. Foxp3 Post-translational Modifications and Treg Suppressive Activity. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2486. [PMID: 31681337 PMCID: PMC6813729 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are engaged in maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing autoimmunity. Treg cells include thymic Treg cells and peripheral Treg cells, both of which can suppress the immune response via multiple distinct mechanisms. The differentiation, proliferation, suppressive function and survival of Treg cells are affected by distinct energy metabolic programs. Tissue-resident Treg cells hold unique features in comparison with the lymphoid organ Treg cells. Foxp3 transcription factor is a lineage master regulator for Treg cell development and suppressive activity. Accumulating evidence indicates that the activity of Foxp3 protein is modulated by various post-translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation, O-GlcNAcylation, acetylation, ubiquitylation and methylation. These modifications affect multiple aspects of Foxp3 function. In this review, we define features of Treg cells and roles of Foxp3 in Treg biology, and summarize current research in PTMs of Foxp3 protein involved in modulating Treg function. This review also attempts to define Foxp3 dimer modifications relevant to mediating Foxp3 activity and Treg suppression. Understanding Foxp3 protein features and modulation mechanisms may help in the design of rational therapies for immune diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoping Deng
- Department of Immunology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaomin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Ciriaco A Piccirillo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Centre of Excellence in Translational Immunology (CETI), Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Yasuhiro Nagai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mark I Greene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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17
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Deng G, Song X, Greene MI. FoxP3 in T reg cell biology: a molecular and structural perspective. Clin Exp Immunol 2019; 199:255-262. [PMID: 31386175 PMCID: PMC7008219 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are specialized in immune suppression and play a dominant role in peripheral immune tolerance. Treg cell lineage development and function maintenance is determined by the forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3) transcriptional factor, whose activity is fine‐tuned by its post‐translational modifications (PTMs) and interaction partners. In this review, we summarize current studies in the crystal structures, the PTMs and interaction partners of FoxP3 protein, and discuss how these insights may provide a roadmap for new approaches to modulate Treg suppression, and new therapies to enhance immune tolerance in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Deng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - X Song
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - M I Greene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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18
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Wang CM, Yang WH, Liu R, Wang L, Yang WH. FOXP3 Activates SUMO-Conjugating UBC9 Gene in MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19072036. [PMID: 30011797 PMCID: PMC6073147 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19072036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Forkhead Box Protein P3 (FOXP3), a transcription factor of the FOX protein family, is essentially involved in the development of regulatory T (Treg) cells, and functions as a tumor suppressor. Although FOXP3 has been widely studied in immune system and cancer development, its function in the regulation of the UBC9 gene (for the sole E2 enzyme of SUMOylation) is unknown. Herein, we find that the overexpression of FOXP3 in human MCF7 breast cancer cells increases the level of UBC9 mRNA. Moreover, the level of UBC9 protein dose-dependently increases in the FOXP3-Tet-off MCF7 cells. Notably, the promoter activity of the UBC9 is activated by FOXP3 in a dose-dependent manner in both the MCF7 and HEK293 cells. Next, by mapping the UBC9 promoter as well as the site-directed mutagenesis and ChIP analysis, we show that the FOXP3 response element at the −310 bp region, but not the −2182 bp region, is mainly required for UBC9 activation by FOXP3. Finally, we demonstrate that the removal of phosphorylation (S418A and Y342F) and the removal of acetylation/ubiquitination (K263R and K263RK268R) of the FOXP3 result in attenuated transcriptional activity of UBC9. Taken together, FOXP3 acts as a novel transcriptional activator of the human UBC9 gene, suggesting that FOXP3 may have physiological functions as a novel player in global SUMOylation, as well as other post-translational modification systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiung-Min Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA 31404, USA.
| | - William H Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA 31404, USA.
| | - Runhua Liu
- Department of Genetics and Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Lizhong Wang
- Department of Genetics and Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Wei-Hsiung Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA 31404, USA.
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19
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Peng J, Yu Z, Xue L, Wang J, Li J, Liu D, Yang Q, Lin Y. The effect of foxp3-overexpressing Treg cells on non-small cell lung cancer cells. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:5860-5868. [PMID: 29436663 PMCID: PMC5866031 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the novel mechanisms of forkhead box protein P3 (foxp3) in T regulatory (Treg) cells in lung cancer behavior. Treg cells were isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy volunteers and then co-cultured with 95D cells. A plasmid overexpressing foxp3 was constructed and transfected into Treg cells and an MTS assay was performed to assess cell viability. Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate cell apoptosis and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to measure mRNA expression. A Transwell assay was used to assess cell invasion. Treg cells were successfully isolated from peripheral blood with purity of 94.26%. Foxp3 expression in Treg cells was significantly increased following co-culture with 95D cells, while matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression was upregulated in 95D cells co-cultured with Treg cells. The apoptosis, invasion and migration abilities of 95D cells were suppressed by co-culture with Treg cells, whereas the adhesive ability was enhanced. Foxp3 overexpression in Treg cells enhanced the viability and invasiveness of 95D cells, whereas cell adhesion and migration were decreased. The results of the present study demonstrate that the viability and invasiveness of 95D cells are enhanced by foxp3 overexpression in Treg cells, indicating that increased levels of foxp3 in the tumor microenvironment may promote tumor cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangzhou Peng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Zigang Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Lei Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Jiabin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanwei People's Hospital, Shanwei, Guangdong 516600, P.R. China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Degang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
| | - Yihui Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510500, P.R. China
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20
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Abstract
The proper restraint of the destructive potential of the immune system is essential for maintaining health. Regulatory T (Treg) cells ensure immune homeostasis through their defining ability to suppress the activation and function of other leukocytes. The expression of the transcription factor forkhead box protein P3 (FOXP3) is a well-recognized characteristic of Treg cells, and FOXP3 is centrally involved in the establishment and maintenance of the Treg cell phenotype. In this Review, we summarize how the expression and activity of FOXP3 are regulated across multiple layers by diverse factors. The therapeutic implications of these topics for cancer and autoimmunity are also discussed.
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21
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Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) represent a cell type that promotes immune tolerance to autologous components and maintains immune system homeostasis. The abnormal function of Tregs is relevant to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and other autoimmune diseases. Therefore, therapeutic modulation of Tregs could be a potent means of treating autoimmune diseases. Human Tregs are diverse, however, and not all of them have immunosuppressive effects. Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), a pivotal transcription factor of Tregs that is crucial in maintaining Treg immunosuppressive function, can be expressed heterogeneously or unstably across Treg subpopulations. Insights into modulating Treg differentiation on the level of DNA transcription or protein modification may improve the success of Treg modifying immunotherapies. In this review, we will summarize three main prospects: the regulatory mechanism of Foxp3, the influence on Foxp3 and Tregs in autoimmune diseases, then finally, how Tregs can be used to treat autoimmune diseases.
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22
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Pesenacker AM, Cook L, Levings MK. The role of FOXP3 in autoimmunity. Curr Opin Immunol 2016; 43:16-23. [PMID: 27544816 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
FOXP3 controls the development and function of T regulatory cells (Tregs). Autoimmunity is linked to changes in FOXP3 activity that can occur at multiple levels and lead to Treg dysfunction. For example, changes in IL-2 signaling, FOXP3 transcription and/or post-translational modifications can all contribute to loss of self-tolerance. As additional pathways of FOXP3 regulation are elucidated, new therapeutic approaches to increase Treg activity either by cell therapy or pharmacological intervention are being tested. Early success from pioneering studies of Treg-based therapy in transplantation has promoted the undertaking of similar studies in autoimmunity, with emerging evidence for the effectiveness of these approaches, particularly in the context of type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Pesenacker
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Laura Cook
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Megan K Levings
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Canada; BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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23
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Nie J, Li YY, Zheng SG, Tsun A, Li B. FOXP3(+) Treg Cells and Gender Bias in Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2015; 6:493. [PMID: 26441996 PMCID: PMC4585344 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells play a pivotal role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis, where the X-linked master transcription factor forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) determines Treg cell development and function. Genetic deficiency of foxp3 induces dysfunction of Treg cells and immuno-dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, and X-linked syndrome in humans. Functionally deficient Treg cells or the development of exTreg cells positively correlate with autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). In general, females are more susceptible to SLE and MS but less susceptible to AS, where the expression of FOXP3 and its protein complex are perturbed by multiple factors, including hormonal fluctuations, inflammatory cytokines, and danger signals. Therefore, it is critical to explore the potential molecular mechanisms involved and these differences linked to gender. Here, we review recent findings on the regulation of FOXP3 activity in Treg cells and also discuss gender difference in the determination of Treg cell function in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Nie
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Shanghai , China
| | - Yang Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Shanghai , China
| | - Song Guo Zheng
- Clinical Immunology Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , China ; Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Penn State Hershey College of Medicine , Hershey, PA , USA
| | - Andy Tsun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Shanghai , China ; Innovent Biologics Inc. , Suzhou , China
| | - Bin Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Shanghai , China
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24
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Li Z, Li D, Tsun A, Li B. FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and their functional regulation. Cell Mol Immunol 2015; 12:558-65. [PMID: 25683611 PMCID: PMC4579651 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2015.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Revised: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
FOXP3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells are critical in maintaining immune tolerance and homeostasis of the immune system. The molecular mechanisms underlying the stability, plasticity and functional activity of Treg cells have been much studied in recent years. Here, we summarize these intriguing findings, and provide insight into their potential use or manipulation during Treg cell therapy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Li
- Unit of Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Li
- Unit of Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Andy Tsun
- Unit of Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Innovent Biologics Inc., Suzhou, China
| | - Bin Li
- Unit of Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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25
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Deng G, Nagai Y, Xiao Y, Li Z, Dai S, Ohtani T, Banham A, Li B, Wu SL, Hancock W, Samanta A, Zhang H, Greene MI. Pim-2 Kinase Influences Regulatory T Cell Function and Stability by Mediating Foxp3 Protein N-terminal Phosphorylation. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:20211-20. [PMID: 25987564 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.638221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of the extent of immune responses is a requirement to maintain self-tolerance and limit inflammatory processes. CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells play a role in regulation. The Foxp3 transcription factor is considered a dominant regulator for Treg cell development and function. Foxp3 function itself is directly regulated by multiple posttranslational modifications that occur in response to various external stimuli. The Foxp3 protein is a component of several dynamic macromolecular regulatory complexes. The complexes change constituents over time and through different signals to regulate the development and function of regulatory T cells. Here we identified a mechanism regulating Foxp3 level and activity that operates through discrete phosphorylation. The Pim-2 kinase can phosphorylate Foxp3, leading to decreased suppressive functions of Treg cells. The amino-terminal domain of Foxp3 is modified at several sites by Pim-2 kinase. This modification leads to altered expression of proteins related to Treg cell functions and increased Treg cell lineage stability. Treg cell suppressive function can be up-regulated by either pharmacologically inhibiting Pim-2 kinase activity or by genetically knocking out Pim-2 in rodent Treg cells. Deficiency of Pim-2 activity increases murine host resistance to dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in vivo, and a Pim-2 small molecule kinase inhibitor also modified Treg cell functions. Our studies define a pathway for limiting the regulation of Foxp3 function because the Pim-2 kinase represents a potential therapeutic target for modulating the Treg cell suppressive activities in controlling immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoping Deng
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Yasuhiro Nagai
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Yan Xiao
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- the Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Shujia Dai
- the Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000
| | - Takuya Ohtani
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Alison Banham
- the Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom, and
| | - Bin Li
- the Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Shiaw-Lin Wu
- the Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000
| | - Wayne Hancock
- the Division of Transplant Immunology and Biesecker Center for Pediatric Liver Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Arabinda Samanta
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Hongtao Zhang
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Mark I Greene
- From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104,
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26
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Liu R, Liu C, Chen D, Yang WH, Liu X, Liu CG, Dugas CM, Tang F, Zheng P, Liu Y, Wang L. FOXP3 Controls an miR-146/NF-κB Negative Feedback Loop That Inhibits Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells. Cancer Res 2015; 75:1703-13. [PMID: 25712342 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
FOXP3 functions not only as the master regulator in regulatory T cells, but also as an X-linked tumor suppressor. The tumor-suppressive activity of FOXP3 has been observed in tumor initiation, but its role during tumor progression remains controversial. Moreover, the mechanism of FOXP3-mediated tumor-suppressive activity remains largely unknown. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing, we identified a series of potential FOXP3-targeted miRNAs in MCF7 cells. Notably, FOXP3 significantly induced the expression of miR-146a/b. In vitro, FOXP3-induced miR-146a/b prevented tumor cell proliferation and enhanced apoptosis. Functional analyses in vitro and in vivo revealed that FOXP3-induced miR-146a/b negatively regulates NF-κB activation by inhibiting the expression of IRAK1 and TRAF6. In ChIP assays, FOXP3 directly bound the promoter region of miR-146a but not of miR-146b, and FOXP3 interacted directly with NF-κB p65 to regulate an miR-146-NF-κB negative feedback regulation loop in normal breast epithelial and tumor cells, as demonstrated with luciferase reporter assays. Although FOXP3 significantly inhibited breast tumor growth and migration in vitro and metastasis in vivo, FOXP3-induced miR-146a/b contributed only to the inhibition of breast tumor growth. These data suggest that miR-146a/b contributes to FOXP3-mediated tumor suppression during tumor growth by triggering apoptosis. The identification of a FOXP3-miR-146-NF-κB axis provides an underlying mechanism for disruption of miR-146 family member expression and constitutive NF-κB activation in breast cancer cells. Linking the tumor suppressor function of FOXP3 to NF-κB activation reveals a potential therapeutic approach for cancers with FOXP3 defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runhua Liu
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama. Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama. Department of Endocrinology, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Dongquan Chen
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Wei-Hsiung Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, Georgia
| | - Xiuping Liu
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Chang-Gong Liu
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Courtney M Dugas
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Fei Tang
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Pan Zheng
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Yang Liu
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Lizhong Wang
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama. Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.
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