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Papageorgakopoulou MA, Bania A, Lagogianni IA, Birmpas K, Assimakopoulou M. The Role of Glia Telomere Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Central Nervous System Diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:5868-5881. [PMID: 38240992 PMCID: PMC11249767 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03947-6] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining the telomere length is decisive for the viability and homeostasis process of all the cells of an organism, including human glial cells. Telomere shortening of microglial cells has been widely associated with the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, traumatic brain injury appears to have a positive correlation with the telomere-shortening process of microglia, and telomere length can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for the clinical management of these patients. Moreover, telomere involvement through telomerase reactivation and homologous recombination also known as the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) has been described in gliomagenesis pathways, and particular focus has been given in the translational significance of these mechanisms in gliomas diagnosis and prognostic classification. Finally, glia telomere shortening is implicated in some psychiatric diseases. Given that telomere dysfunction of glial cells is involved in the central nervous system (CNS) disease pathogenesis, it represents a promising drug target that could lead to the incorporation of new tools in the medicinal arsenal for the management of so far incurable conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelina Bania
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Martha Assimakopoulou
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Preclinical Medicine Department Building, 1 Asklipiou, 26504, Patras, Greece.
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2
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Brankiewicz-Kopcinska W, Kallingal A, Krzemieniecki R, Baginski M. Targeting shelterin proteins for cancer therapy. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104056. [PMID: 38844065 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104056] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
As a global health challenge, cancer prompts continuous exploration for innovative therapies that are also based on new targets. One promising avenue is targeting the shelterin protein complex, a safeguard for telomeres crucial in preventing DNA damage. The role of shelterin in modulating ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinases, key players in the DNA damage response (DDR), establishes its significance in cancer cells. Disrupting these defence mechanisms of shelterins, especially in cancer cells, renders telomeres vulnerable, potentially leading to genomic instability and hindering cancer cell survival. In this review, we outline recent approaches exploring shelterins as potential anticancer targets, highlighting the prospect of developing selective molecules to exploit telomere vulnerabilities toward new innovative cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Brankiewicz-Kopcinska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland; Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Anoop Kallingal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Radoslaw Krzemieniecki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Baginski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland.
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3
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Bosso G, Cintra Herpst AC, Laguía O, Adetchessi S, Serrano R, Blasco MA. Differential contribution for ERK1 and ERK2 kinases in BRAF V600E-triggered phenotypes in adult mouse models. Cell Death Differ 2024; 31:804-819. [PMID: 38698060 PMCID: PMC11165013 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-024-01300-x] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The BRAF gene is mutated in a plethora of human cancers. The majority of such molecular lesions result in the expression of a constitutively active BRAF variant (BRAFV600E) which continuously bolsters cell proliferation. Although we recently addressed the early effects triggered by BRAFV600E-activation, the specific contribution of ERK1 and ERK2 in BRAFV600E-driven responses in vivo has never been explored. Here we describe the first murine model suitable for genetically dissecting the ERK1/ERK2 impact in multiple phenotypes induced by ubiquitous BRAFV600E-expression. We unveil that ERK1 is dispensable for BRAFV600E-dependent lifespan shortening and for BRAFV600E-driven tumor growth. We show that BRAFV600E-expression provokes an ERK1-independent lymphocyte depletion which does not rely on p21CIP1-induced cell cycle arrest and is unresponsive to ERK-chemical inhibition. Moreover, we also reveal that ERK1 is dispensable for BRAFV600E-triggered cytotoxicity in lungs and that ERK-chemical inhibition abrogates some of these detrimental effects, such as DNA damage, in Club cells but not in pulmonary lymphocytes. Our data suggest that ERK1/ERK2 contribution to BRAFV600E-driven phenotypes is dynamic and varies dependently on cell type, the biological function, and the level of ERK-pathway activation. Our findings also provide useful insights into the comprehension of BRAFV600E-driven malignancies pathophysiology as well as the consequences in vivo of novel ERK pathway-targeted anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Bosso
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Ana Carolina Cintra Herpst
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Oscar Laguía
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Sarah Adetchessi
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Rosa Serrano
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Maria A Blasco
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.
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4
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Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
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5
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Bolzán AD. Considerations on the scoring of telomere aberrations in vertebrate cells detected by telomere or telomere plus centromere PNA-FISH. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2024; 794:108507. [PMID: 38802042 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2024.108507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Given that telomeres play a fundamental role in maintaining genomic stability, the study of the chromosomal aberrations involving telomeric sequences is a topic of considerable research interest. In recent years, the scoring of these types of aberrations has been used in vertebrate cells, particularly human cells, to evaluate the effects of genotoxic agents on telomeres and the involvement of telomeric sequences on chromosomal aberrations. Currently, chromosomal aberrations involving telomeric sequences are evaluated in peripheral blood lymphocytes or immortalized cell lines, using telomere or telomere plus centromere fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) probes (PNA-FISH). The telomere PNA probe is more efficient in the detection of telomeric sequences than conventional FISH with a telomere DNA probe. In addition, the intensity of the telomeric PNA-FISH probe signal is directly correlated with the number of telomeric repeats. Therefore, use of this type of probe can identify chromosomal aberrations involving telomeres as well as determine the telomere length of the sample. There are several mistakes and inconsistencies in the literature regarding the identification of telomere aberrations, which prevent accurate scoring and data comparison between different publications concerning these types of aberrations. The aim of this review is to clarify these issues, and provide proper terminology and criteria for the identification, scoring, and analysis of telomere aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro D Bolzán
- Laboratorio de Citogenética y Mutagénesis, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Celular (IMBICE, CONICET-UNLP-CICPBA), calle 526 y Camino General Belgrano, La Plata, Buenos Aires B1906APO, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, calle 60 y 122, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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6
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Shi R, Wang S, Jiang Y, Zhong G, Li M, Sun Y. ERCC4: a potential regulatory factor in inflammatory bowel disease and inflammation-associated colorectal cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1348216. [PMID: 38516408 PMCID: PMC10954797 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1348216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains unclear and is associated with an increased risk of developing colitis-associated cancer (CAC). Under sustained inflammatory stimulation in the intestines, loss of early DNA damage response genes can lead to tumor formation. Many proteins are involved in the pathways of DNA damage response and play critical roles in protecting genes from various potential damages that DNA may undergo. ERCC4 is a structure-specific endonuclease that participates in the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. The catalytic site of ERCC4 determines the activity of NER and is an indispensable gene in the NER pathway. ERCC4 may be involved in the imbalanced process of DNA damage and repair in IBD-related inflammation and CAC. This article primarily reviews the function of ERCC4 in the DNA repair pathway and discusses its potential role in the processes of IBD-related inflammation and carcinogenesis. Finally, we explore how this knowledge may open novel avenues for the treatment of IBD and IBD-related cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yan Sun
- *Correspondence: Yan Sun, ; Mingsong Li,
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7
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Schellnegger M, Hofmann E, Carnieletto M, Kamolz LP. Unlocking longevity: the role of telomeres and its targeting interventions. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2024; 5:1339317. [PMID: 38333665 PMCID: PMC10850353 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2024.1339317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Average life expectancy has been steadily increasing in developed countries worldwide. These demographic changes are associated with an ever-growing social and economic strain to healthcare systems as well as society. The aging process typically manifests as a decline in physiological and cognitive functions, accompanied by a rise in chronic diseases. Consequently, strategies that both mitigate age-related diseases and promote healthy aging are urgently needed. Telomere attrition, characterized by the shortening of telomeres with each cell division, paradoxically serves as both a protective mechanism and a contributor to tissue degeneration and age-related ailments. Based on the essential role of telomere biology in aging, research efforts aim to develop approaches designed to counteract telomere attrition, aiming to delay or reduce age-related diseases. In this review, telomere biology and its role in aging and age-related diseases is summarized along with recent approaches to interfere with telomere shortening aiming at well- and healthy-aging as well as longevity. As aging research enters a new era, this review emphasizes telomere-targeting therapeutics, including telomerase activators and tankyrase inhibitors, while also exploring the effects of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory agents, along with indirectly related approaches like statins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlies Schellnegger
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Hofmann
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
- Research Unit for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Reconstruction, Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martina Carnieletto
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Lars-Peter Kamolz
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
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8
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Li Q, Qin K, Tian Y, Chen B, Zhao G, Xu S, Wu L. Inhibition of demethylase by IOX1 modulates chromatin accessibility to enhance NSCLC radiation sensitivity through attenuated PIF1. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:817. [PMID: 38086789 PMCID: PMC10716120 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06346-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Chromatin accessibility is a critical determinant of gene transcriptional expression and regulated by histones modification. However, the potential for manipulating chromatin accessibility to regulate radiation sensitivity remains unclear. Our findings demonstrated that the histone demethylase inhibitor, 5-carboxy-8-hydroxyquinoline (IOX1), could enhance the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, IOX1 treatment reduced chromatin accessibility in the promoter region of DNA damage repair genes, leading to decreased DNA repair efficiency and elevated DNA damage induced by γ irradiation. Notably, IOX1 treatment significantly reduced both chromatin accessibility and the transcription of phytochrome interacting factor 1 (PIF1), a key player in telomere maintenance. Inhibition of PIF1 delayed radiation-induced DNA and telomeric DNA damage repair, as well as increased radiosensitivity of NSCLC in vitro and in vivo. Further study indicated that the above process was regulated by a reduction of transcription factor myc-associated zinc finger protein (MAZ) binding to the distal intergenic region of the PIF1. Taken together, IOX1-mediated demethylase inactivation reduced chromatin accessibility, leading to elevated telomere damage which is partly due to PIF1 inhibition, thereby enhancing NSCLC radiosensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- School of Environmental Science and Optoelectronic Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Kexin Qin
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, PR China
| | - Yushan Tian
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, PR China
| | - Biao Chen
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, PR China
| | - Guoping Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Optoelectronic Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China
| | - Shengmin Xu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, PR China.
| | - Lijun Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Optoelectronic Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, PR China.
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, PR China.
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Rizzo A, Maresca C, D'Angelo C, Porru M, Di Vito S, Salvati E, Sacconi A, Berardinelli F, Sgura A, Kuznetsov S, Potdar S, Hassinen A, Stoppacciaro A, Zizza P, Biroccio A. Drug repositioning strategy for the identification of novel telomere-damaging agents: A role for NAMPT inhibitors. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13944. [PMID: 37858982 PMCID: PMC10652301 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13944] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning strategy represents a valid tool to accelerate the pharmacological development through the identification of new applications for already existing compounds. In this view, we aimed at discovering molecules able to trigger telomere-localized DNA damage and tumor cell death. By applying an automated high-content spinning-disk microscopy, we performed a screening aimed at identifying, on a library of 527 drugs, molecules able to negatively affect the expression of TRF2, a key protein in telomere maintenance. FK866, resulting from the screening as the best candidate hit, was then validated at biochemical and molecular levels and the mechanism underlying its activity in telomere deprotection was elucidated both in vitro and in vivo. The results of this study allow us to discover a novel role of FK866 in promoting, through the production of reactive oxygen species, telomere loss and deprotection, two events leading to an accumulation of DNA damage and tumor cell death. The ability of FK866 to induce telomere damage and apoptosis was also demonstrated in advanced preclinical models evidencing the antitumoral activity of FK866 in triple-negative breast cancer-a particularly aggressive breast cancer subtype still orphan of targeted therapies and characterized by high expression levels of both NAMPT and TRF2. Overall, our findings pave the way to the development of novel anticancer strategies to counteract triple-negative breast cancer, based on the use of telomere deprotecting agents, including NAMPT inhibitors, that would rapidly progress from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Rizzo
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Carmen Maresca
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Carmen D'Angelo
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Manuela Porru
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Serena Di Vito
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Erica Salvati
- Institute of Molecular Biology and PathologyNational Research CouncilRomeItaly
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteClinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics UnitRomeItaly
| | | | | | - Sergey Kuznetsov
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Swapnil Potdar
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Antti Hassinen
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Antonella Stoppacciaro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea HospitalSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Pasquale Zizza
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
| | - Annamaria Biroccio
- IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteTranslational Oncology Research UnitRomeItaly
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Zhao X, Luo D, Liu T, Zhang H, Xie Y, Kong W. BIBR1532 Affects Endometrial Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Endometriosis via Telomerase Inhibition and MAPK Signaling. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2023; 88:226-239. [PMID: 37429261 DOI: 10.1159/000530460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effect of telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 on endometriotic cells was investigated to explore the inhibitory effect of targeting telomerase on endometriosis. DESIGN In vitro primary cell culture study. Participants/Materials: Primary endometrial cells derived from eutopic and ectopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis. SETTING The study was conducted in the university hospital. METHODS Paired eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells were collected from 6 patients from January 2018 to July 2021. A TRAP assay was performed to detect the telomerase activity of the cells. MTT, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays were performed to study the inhibitory effect of BIBR1532. Enrichment analysis was performed to identify the key pathways involved in endometriosis progression and telomerase action. Then, Western blotting was used to investigate the expression of related proteins. RESULTS BIBR1532 treatment significantly inhibited the growth of eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells, with apoptosis and cell cycle signaling involved. Migration and invasion, important characteristics for the establishment of ectopic lesions, were also inhibited by BIBR1532. The MAPK signaling cascade, related to telomerase and endometriosis, was decreased in eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells with the treatment of BIBR1532. LIMITATIONS The severe side effects of telomerase inhibitors might be the main obstacle to clinical application, so it is necessary to find better drug delivery methods in vivo. CONCLUSIONS The telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 affects endometrial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yunkai Xie
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weimin Kong
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
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11
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Elsakrmy N, Cui H. R-Loops and R-Loop-Binding Proteins in Cancer Progression and Drug Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087064. [PMID: 37108225 PMCID: PMC10138518 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087064] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
R-loops are three-stranded DNA/RNA hybrids that form by the annealing of the mRNA transcript to its coding template while displacing the non-coding strand. While R-loop formation regulates physiological genomic and mitochondrial transcription and DNA damage response, imbalanced R-loop formation can be a threat to the genomic integrity of the cell. As such, R-loop formation is a double-edged sword in cancer progression, and perturbed R-loop homeostasis is observed across various malignancies. Here, we discuss the interplay between R-loops and tumor suppressors and oncogenes, with a focus on BRCA1/2 and ATR. R-loop imbalances contribute to cancer propagation and the development of chemotherapy drug resistance. We explore how R-loop formation can cause cancer cell death in response to chemotherapeutics and be used to circumvent drug resistance. As R-loop formation is tightly linked to mRNA transcription, their formation is unavoidable in cancer cells and can thus be explored in novel cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha Elsakrmy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Haissi Cui
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
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12
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Kusuma FK, Prabhu A, Tieo G, Ahmed SM, Dakle P, Yong WK, Pathak E, Madan V, Jiang YY, Tam WL, Kappei D, Dröge P, Koeffler HP, Jeitany M. Signalling inhibition by ponatinib disrupts productive alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). Nat Commun 2023; 14:1919. [PMID: 37024489 PMCID: PMC10079688 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37633-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) supports telomere maintenance in 10-15% of cancers, thus representing a compelling target for therapy. By performing anti-cancer compound library screen on isogenic cell lines and using extrachromosomal telomeric C-circles, as a bona fide marker of ALT activity, we identify a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor ponatinib that deregulates ALT mechanisms, induces telomeric dysfunction, reduced ALT-associated telomere synthesis, and targets, in vivo, ALT-positive cells. Using RNA-sequencing and quantitative phosphoproteomic analyses, combined with C-circle level assessment, we find an ABL1-JNK-JUN signalling circuit to be inhibited by ponatinib and to have a role in suppressing telomeric C-circles. Furthermore, transcriptome and interactome analyses suggest a role of JUN in DNA damage repair. These results are corroborated by synergistic drug interactions between ponatinib and either DNA synthesis or repair inhibitors, such as triciribine. Taken together, we describe here a signalling pathway impacting ALT which can be targeted by a clinically approved drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Karla Kusuma
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aishvaryaa Prabhu
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Galen Tieo
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Syed Moiz Ahmed
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pushkar Dakle
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wai Khang Yong
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elina Pathak
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vikas Madan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yan Yi Jiang
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Wai Leong Tam
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dennis Kappei
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Center for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peter Dröge
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - H Phillip Koeffler
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore (NCIS), National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Maya Jeitany
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
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13
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Sohn EJ, Goralsky JA, Shay JW, Min J. The Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects of Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT). Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15071945. [PMID: 37046606 PMCID: PMC10093677 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15071945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
As detailed by the end replication problem, the linear ends of a cell's chromosomes, known as telomeres, shorten with each successive round of replication until a cell enters into a state of growth arrest referred to as senescence. To maintain their immortal proliferation capacity, cancer cells must employ a telomere maintenance mechanism, such as telomerase activation or the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres pathway (ALT). With only 10-15% of cancers utilizing the ALT mechanism, progress towards understanding its molecular components and associated hallmarks has only recently been made. This review analyzes the advances towards understanding the ALT pathway by: (1) detailing the mechanisms associated with engaging the ALT pathway as well as (2) identifying potential therapeutic targets of ALT that may lead to novel cancer therapeutic treatments. Collectively, these studies indicate that the ALT molecular mechanisms involve at least two distinct pathways induced by replication stress and damage at telomeres. We suggest exploiting tumor dependency on ALT is a promising field of study because it suggests new approaches to ALT-specific therapies for cancers with poorer prognosis. While substantial progress has been made in the ALT research field, additional progress will be required to realize these advances into clinical practices to treat ALT cancers and improve patient prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Sohn
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Julia A Goralsky
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jerry W Shay
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9039, USA
| | - Jaewon Min
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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14
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Song Y, Wang Y, Guan A, Xue J, Li B, Huang Z, Zheng Z, Liang N, Yang Y, Li S. Footprints: Stamping hallmarks of lung cancer with patient-derived models, from molecular mechanisms to clinical translation. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1132940. [PMID: 36911198 PMCID: PMC9993089 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1132940] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The conventional two-dimensional (2D) tumor cell lines in Petri dishes have played an important role in revealing the molecular biological mechanism of lung cancer. However, they cannot adequately recapitulate the complex biological systems and clinical outcomes of lung cancer. The three-dimensional (3D) cell culture enables the possible 3D cell interactions and the complex 3D systems with co-culture of different cells mimicking the tumor microenvironments (TME). In this regard, patient-derived models, mainly patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) and patient-derived organoids discussed hereby, are with higher biological fidelity of lung cancer, and regarded as more faithful preclinical models. The significant Hallmarks of Cancer is believed to be the most comprehensive coverage of current research on tumor biological characteristics. Therefore, this review aims to present and discuss the application of different patient-derived lung cancer models from molecular mechanisms to clinical translation with regards to the dimensions of different hallmarks, and to look to the prospects of these patient-derived lung cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ai Guan
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianchao Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhicheng Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Zheng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Naixin Liang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlian Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shanqing Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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15
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Dinami R, Pompili L, Petti E, Porru M, D'Angelo C, Di Vito S, Rizzo A, Campani V, De Rosa G, Bruna A, Serra V, Mano M, Giacca M, Leonetti C, Ciliberto G, Tarsounas M, Stoppacciaro A, Schoeftner S, Biroccio A. MiR-182-3p targets TRF2 and impairs tumor growth of triple-negative breast cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 15:e16033. [PMID: 36426578 PMCID: PMC9832842 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The telomeric repeat-binding factor 2 (TRF2) is a telomere-capping protein that plays a key role in the maintenance of telomere structure and function. It is highly expressed in different cancer types, and it contributes to cancer progression. To date, anti-cancer strategies to target TRF2 remain a challenge. Here, we developed a miRNA-based approach to reduce TRF2 expression. By performing a high-throughput luciferase screening of 54 candidate miRNAs, we identified miR-182-3p as a specific and efficient post-transcriptional regulator of TRF2. Ectopic expression of miR-182-3p drastically reduced TRF2 protein levels in a panel of telomerase- or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT)-positive cancer cell lines. Moreover, miR-182-3p induced DNA damage at telomeric and pericentromeric sites, eventually leading to strong apoptosis activation. We also observed that treatment with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing miR-182-3p impaired tumor growth in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) models, including patient-derived tumor xenografts (PDTXs), without affecting mouse survival or tissue function. Finally, LNPs-miR-182-3p were able to cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce intracranial tumors representing a possible therapeutic option for metastatic brain lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Dinami
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Luca Pompili
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Eleonora Petti
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Manuela Porru
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Carmen D'Angelo
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Serena Di Vito
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly,Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB)University of TusciaViterboItaly
| | - Angela Rizzo
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of PharmacyUniversity Federico II of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of PharmacyUniversity Federico II of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | | | | | - Miguel Mano
- Functional Genomics and RNA‐based Therapeutics Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC)University of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal,Department of Life SciencesUniversity of CoimbraCoimbraPortugal,King's College London, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research ExcellenceSchool of Cardiovascular Medicine & SciencesLondonUK
| | - Mauro Giacca
- King's College London, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research ExcellenceSchool of Cardiovascular Medicine & SciencesLondonUK
| | - Carlo Leonetti
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific DirectionIRCCS‐Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
| | - Madalena Tarsounas
- Department of Oncology, Genome Stability and Tumourigenesis Group, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation OncologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Antonella Stoppacciaro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, St. Andrea HospitalSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | - Annamaria Biroccio
- Translational Oncology Research UnitIRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer InstituteRomeItaly
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16
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Gao J, Pickett HA. Targeting telomeres: advances in telomere maintenance mechanism-specific cancer therapies. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:515-532. [PMID: 35790854 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00490-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells establish replicative immortality by activating a telomere-maintenance mechanism (TMM), be it telomerase or the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway. Targeting telomere maintenance represents an intriguing opportunity to treat the vast majority of all cancer types. Whilst telomerase inhibitors have historically been heralded as promising anticancer agents, the reality has been more challenging, and there are currently no therapeutic options for cancer types that use ALT despite their aggressive nature and poor prognosis. In this Review, we discuss the mechanistic differences between telomere maintenance by telomerase and ALT, the current methods used to detect each mechanism, the utility of these tests for clinical diagnosis, and recent developments in the therapeutic strategies being employed to target both telomerase and ALT. We present notable developments in repurposing established therapeutic agents and new avenues that are emerging to target cancer types according to which TMM they employ. These opportunities extend beyond inhibition of telomere maintenance, by finding and exploiting inherent weaknesses in the telomeres themselves to trigger rapid cellular effects that lead to cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixuan Gao
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Hilda A Pickett
- Telomere Length Regulation Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
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17
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Sanchez-Burgos L, Navarro-González B, García-Martín S, Sirozh O, Mota-Pino J, Fueyo-Marcos E, Tejero H, Antón ME, Murga M, Al-Shahrour F, Fernandez-Capetillo O. Activation of the integrated stress response is a vulnerability for multidrug-resistant FBXW7-deficient cells. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e15855. [PMID: 35861150 PMCID: PMC9449593 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215855] [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: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
FBXW7 is one of the most frequently mutated tumor suppressors, deficiency of which has been associated with resistance to some anticancer therapies. Through bioinformatics and genome‐wide CRISPR screens, we here reveal that FBXW7 deficiency leads to multidrug resistance (MDR). Proteomic analyses found an upregulation of mitochondrial factors as a hallmark of FBXW7 deficiency, which has been previously linked to chemotherapy resistance. Despite this increased expression of mitochondrial factors, functional analyses revealed that mitochondria are under stress, and genetic or chemical targeting of mitochondria is preferentially toxic for FBXW7‐deficient cells. Mechanistically, the toxicity of therapies targeting mitochondrial translation such as the antibiotic tigecycline relates to the activation of the integrated stress response (ISR) in a GCN2 kinase‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the discovery of additional drugs that are toxic for FBXW7‐deficient cells showed that all of them unexpectedly activate a GCN2‐dependent ISR regardless of their accepted mechanism of action. Our study reveals that while one of the most frequent mutations in cancer reduces the sensitivity to the vast majority of available therapies, it renders cells vulnerable to ISR‐activating drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sanchez-Burgos
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Navarro-González
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Oleksandra Sirozh
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Mota-Pino
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Fueyo-Marcos
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Héctor Tejero
- Bioinformatics Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Elena Antón
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Matilde Murga
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fátima Al-Shahrour
- Bioinformatics Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Fernandez-Capetillo
- Genomic Instability Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.,Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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CircRNAs in lung cancer- role and clinical application. Cancer Lett 2022; 544:215810. [PMID: 35780929 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer holds the highest mortality rate among malignancies worldwide. Nevertheless, the potential molecular mechanisms of its tumorigenesis and evolution remain obscure. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a broad category of covalently closed molecules, follow a malignancy-restricted expression pattern. Leading-edge studies have demonstrated the clinical application prospects of circRNAs in lung cancer. Herein, this review elucidates the biogenesis, biological functions, and pathophysiology of circRNAs. Furthermore, we underscore the forefront of the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of circRNAs in lung cancer as well as discuss the bottleneck that needs to be overcome to translate the basic advances of circRNAs into clinical practice.
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19
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Identification of Prognostic and Tumor Microenvironment by Shelterin Complex-Related Signatures in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6849304. [PMID: 35757510 PMCID: PMC9217620 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6849304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignant tumor of the oral cavity. Shelterin complex gene (SG) has an important role in regulating telomere structure and length. SG is considered promising as a novel prognostic marker for cancer and a potential target for tumor therapy. However, SGs have not been systematically studied in OSCC. We analyzed SGs based on public data from OSCC patients and showed that SGs are closely associated with the prognosis of OSCC patients. Two different subtypes of SGs were identified in the TCGA and GEO cohorts, and LASSO regression analysis was used to further construct an SGs-related prognostic model. Randomized cohorts and different clinical subgroups validated the model's accuracy. The assessment of clinical characteristics, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and tumor microenvironment (TME) between high- and low-risk scores groups showed lower TMB, more abundant immune cell infiltration, and better prognosis in the low-risk group. According to the IPS analysis, patients in the low-risk group were more responsive to immunotherapy. This study establishes a foundation for research on SG and confirms that risk scores can predict prognosis and guide clinical treatment in OSCC patients.
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20
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Thakkar MK, Lee J, Meyer S, Chang VY. RecQ Helicase Somatic Alterations in Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:887758. [PMID: 35782872 PMCID: PMC9240438 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.887758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Named the “caretakers” of the genome, RecQ helicases function in several pathways to maintain genomic stability and repair DNA. This highly conserved family of enzymes consist of five different proteins in humans: RECQL1, BLM, WRN, RECQL4, and RECQL5. Biallelic germline mutations in BLM, WRN, and RECQL4 have been linked to rare cancer-predisposing syndromes. Emerging research has also implicated somatic alterations in RecQ helicases in a variety of cancers, including hematological malignancies, breast cancer, osteosarcoma, amongst others. These alterations in RecQ helicases, particularly overexpression, may lead to increased resistance of cancer cells to conventional chemotherapy. Downregulation of these proteins may allow for increased sensitivity to chemotherapy, and, therefore, may be important therapeutic targets. Here we provide a comprehensive review of our current understanding of the role of RecQ DNA helicases in cancer and discuss the potential therapeutic opportunities in targeting these helicases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha K. Thakkar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jamie Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Stefan Meyer
- Division of Cancer Studies, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Vivian Y. Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Childrens Discovery and Innovation Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Vivian Y. Chang,
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21
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Vertecchi E, Rizzo A, Salvati E. Telomere Targeting Approaches in Cancer: Beyond Length Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073784. [PMID: 35409143 PMCID: PMC8998427 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are crucial structures that preserve genome stability. Their progressive erosion over numerous DNA duplications determines the senescence of cells and organisms. As telomere length homeostasis is critical for cancer development, nowadays, telomere maintenance mechanisms are established targets in cancer treatment. Besides telomere elongation, telomere dysfunction impinges on intracellular signaling pathways, in particular DNA damage signaling and repair, affecting cancer cell survival and proliferation. This review summarizes and discusses recent findings in anticancer drug development targeting different “telosome” components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Vertecchi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy, c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 4, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Angela Rizzo
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Erica Salvati
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy, c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 4, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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22
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Zhu L, Retana D, García‐Gómez P, Álvaro‐Espinosa L, Priego N, Masmudi‐Martín M, Yebra N, Miarka L, Hernández‐Encinas E, Blanco‐Aparicio C, Martínez S, Sobrino C, Ajenjo N, Artiga M, Ortega‐Paino E, Torres‐Ruiz R, Rodríguez‐Perales S, Soffietti R, Bertero L, Cassoni P, Weiss T, Muñoz J, Sepúlveda JM, González‐León P, Jiménez‐Roldán L, Moreno LM, Esteban O, Pérez‐Núñez Á, Hernández‐Laín A, Toldos O, Ruano Y, Alcázar L, Blasco G, Fernández‐Alén J, Caleiras E, Lafarga M, Megías D, Graña‐Castro O, Nör C, Taylor MD, Young LS, Varešlija D, Cosgrove N, Couch FJ, Cussó L, Desco M, Mouron S, Quintela‐Fandino M, Weller M, Pastor J, Valiente M. A clinically compatible drug-screening platform based on organotypic cultures identifies vulnerabilities to prevent and treat brain metastasis. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e14552. [PMID: 35174975 PMCID: PMC8899920 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202114552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a medium-throughput drug-screening platform (METPlatform) based on organotypic cultures that allows to evaluate inhibitors against metastases growing in situ. By applying this approach to the unmet clinical need of brain metastasis, we identified several vulnerabilities. Among them, a blood-brain barrier permeable HSP90 inhibitor showed high potency against mouse and human brain metastases at clinically relevant stages of the disease, including a novel model of local relapse after neurosurgery. Furthermore, in situ proteomic analysis applied to metastases treated with the chaperone inhibitor uncovered a novel molecular program in brain metastasis, which includes biomarkers of poor prognosis and actionable mechanisms of resistance. Our work validates METPlatform as a potent resource for metastasis research integrating drug-screening and unbiased omic approaches that is compatible with human samples. Thus, this clinically relevant strategy is aimed to personalize the management of metastatic disease in the brain and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Zhu
- Brain Metastasis GroupCNIOMadridSpain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Raúl Torres‐Ruiz
- Molecular Cytogenetics UnitCNIOMadridSpain,Division of Hematopoietic Innovative TherapiesCentro de Investigaciones EnergeticasMedioambientales y Tecnologicas (CIEMAT)MadridSpain
| | | | | | - Riccardo Soffietti
- Department of Neuro‐OncologyUniversity and City of Health and Science HospitalTurinItaly
| | - Luca Bertero
- Department of Medical SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Paola Cassoni
- Department of Medical SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Tobias Weiss
- Department of NeurologyClinical Neuroscience CenterUniversity Hospital Zurich and University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Javier Muñoz
- Proteomics UnitProteoRedISCIIICNIOMadridSpain,Present address:
Cell Signaling and Clinical Proteomics GroupBiocruces Bizkaia Health Research InstituteBarakaldoSpain,Present address:
IkerbasqueBasque Foundation for ScienceBilbaoSpain
| | | | | | - Luis Jiménez‐Roldán
- Neurosurgery UnitHospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain,Department of SurgeryUniversidad Complutense de MadridMadridSpain,Neuropathology UnitInstituto i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain
| | | | - Olga Esteban
- Neurosurgery UnitHospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain
| | - Ángel Pérez‐Núñez
- Neurosurgery UnitHospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain,Department of SurgeryUniversidad Complutense de MadridMadridSpain,Neuro‐Oncology GroupResearch Institute Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12)MadridSpain
| | | | - Oscar Toldos
- Neuropathology UnitInstituto i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain
| | - Yolanda Ruano
- Pathology DepartmentInstituto i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadridSpain,Universidad Francisco de VitoriaMadridSpain
| | - Lucía Alcázar
- Neurosurgery DepartmentHospital Universitario de La PrincesaMadridSpain
| | - Guillermo Blasco
- Neurosurgery DepartmentHospital Universitario de La PrincesaMadridSpain
| | | | | | - Miguel Lafarga
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)University of Cantabria‐IDIVALSantanderSpain
| | | | | | - Carolina Nör
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoONCanada
| | - Michael D Taylor
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoONCanada
| | - Leonie S Young
- Endocrine Oncology Research GroupDepartment of SurgeryRCSI University of Medicine and Health SciencesDublinIreland
| | - Damir Varešlija
- Endocrine Oncology Research GroupDepartment of SurgeryRCSI University of Medicine and Health SciencesDublinIreland
| | - Nicola Cosgrove
- Endocrine Oncology Research GroupDepartment of SurgeryRCSI University of Medicine and Health SciencesDublinIreland
| | - Fergus J Couch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and PathologyMayo ClinicRochesterMNUSA
| | - Lorena Cussó
- Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería AeroespacialUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM)MadridSpain,Unidad de Imagen AvanzadaCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC)MadridSpain
| | - Manuel Desco
- Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería AeroespacialUniversidad Carlos III de MadridMadridSpain,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio MarañónMadridSpain,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM)MadridSpain,Unidad de Imagen AvanzadaCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC)MadridSpain
| | | | | | - Michael Weller
- Department of NeurologyClinical Neuroscience CenterUniversity Hospital Zurich and University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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23
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Early differential responses elicited by BRAF V600E in adult mouse models. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:142. [PMID: 35145078 PMCID: PMC8831492 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04597-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The BRAF gene is frequently mutated in cancer. The most common genetic mutation is a single nucleotide transition which gives rise to a constitutively active BRAF kinase (BRAFV600E) which in turn sustains continuous cell proliferation. The study of BRAFV600E murine models has been mainly focused on the role of BRAFV600E in tumor development but little is known on the early molecular impact of BRAFV600E expression in vivo. Here, we study the immediate effects of acute ubiquitous BRAFV600E activation in vivo. We find that BRAFV600E elicits a rapid DNA damage response in the liver, spleen, lungs but not in thyroids. This DNA damage response does not occur at telomeres and is accompanied by activation of the senescence marker p21CIP1 only in lungs but not in liver or spleen. Moreover, in lungs, BRAFV600E provokes an acute inflammatory state with a tissue-specific recruitment of neutrophils in the alveolar parenchyma and macrophages in bronchi/bronchioles, as well as bronchial/bronchiolar epithelium transdifferentiation and development of adenomas. Furthermore, whereas in non-tumor alveolar type II (ATIIs) pneumocytes, acute BRAFV600E induction elicits rapid p53-independent p21CIP1 activation, adenoma ATIIs express p53 without resulting in p21CIP1 gene activation. Conversely, albeit in Club cells BRAFV600E-mediated proliferative cue is more exacerbated compared to that occurring in ATIIs, such oncogenic stimulus culminates with p21CIP1-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Our findings indicate that acute BRAFV600E expression drives an immediate induction of DNA damage response in vivo. More importantly, it also results in rapid differential responses of cell cycle and senescence-associated proteins in lung epithelia, thus revealing the early molecular changes emerging in BRAFV600E-challenged cells during tumorigenesis in vivo.
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Telomeres and Cancer. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11121405. [PMID: 34947936 PMCID: PMC8704776 DOI: 10.3390/life11121405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres cap the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes and are indispensable chromatin structures for genome protection and replication. Telomere length maintenance has been attributed to several functional modulators, including telomerase, the shelterin complex, and the CST complex, synergizing with DNA replication, repair, and the RNA metabolism pathway components. As dysfunctional telomere maintenance and telomerase activation are associated with several human diseases, including cancer, the molecular mechanisms behind telomere length regulation and protection need particular emphasis. Cancer cells exhibit telomerase activation, enabling replicative immortality. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) activation is involved in cancer development through diverse activities other than mediating telomere elongation. This review describes the telomere functions, the role of functional modulators, the implications in cancer development, and the future therapeutic opportunities.
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25
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Chatterjee D, Chakrabarti O. Role of stress granules in modulating senescence and promoting cancer progression: Special emphasis on glioma. Int J Cancer 2021; 150:551-561. [PMID: 34460104 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) contain mRNAs and proteins stalled in translation during stress; these are increasingly being implicated in diseases, including neurological disorders and cancer. The dysregulated assembly, persistence, disassembly and clearance of SGs contribute to the process of senescence. Senescence has long been a mysterious player in cellular physiology and associated diseases. The systemic process of aging has been pivotal in the development of various neurological disorders like age-related neuropathy, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Glioma is a cancer of neurological origin with a very poor prognosis and high rate of recurrence, SGs have only recently been implicated in its pathogenesis. Senescence has long been established to play an antitumorigenic role, however, relatively less studied is its protumorigenic importance. Here, we have evaluated the existing literature to assess the crosstalk of the two biological phenomena of senescence and SG formation in the context of tumorigenesis. In this review, we have attempted to analyze the contribution of senescence in regulating diverse cellular processes, like, senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP), microtubular reorganization, telomeric alteration, autophagic clearance and how intricately these phenomena are tied with the formation of SGs. Finally, we propose that interplay between senescence, its contributing factors and the genesis of SGs can drive tumorigenicity of gliomas, which can potentially be utilized for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debmita Chatterjee
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, India
| | - Oishee Chakrabarti
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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26
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AKT-dependent signaling of extracellular cues through telomeres impact on tumorigenesis. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009410. [PMID: 33690611 PMCID: PMC7942993 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The telomere-bound shelterin complex is essential for chromosome-end protection and genomic stability. Little is known on the regulation of shelterin components by extracellular signals including developmental and environmental cues. Here, we show that human TRF1 is subjected to AKT-dependent regulation. To study the importance of this modification in vivo, we generate knock-in human cell lines carrying non-phosphorylatable mutants of the AKT-dependent TRF1 phosphorylation sites by CRISPR-Cas9. We find that TRF1 mutant cells show decreased TRF1 binding to telomeres and increased global and telomeric DNA damage. Human cells carrying non-phosphorylatable mutant TRF1 alleles show accelerated telomere shortening, demonstrating that AKT-dependent TRF1 phosphorylation regulates telomere maintenance in vivo. TRF1 mutant cells show an impaired response to proliferative extracellular signals as well as a decreased tumorigenesis potential. These findings indicate that telomere protection and telomere length can be regulated by extracellular signals upstream of PI3K/AKT activation, such as growth factors, nutrients or immune regulators, and this has an impact on tumorigenesis potential. We show how extracellular milieu information is transmitted to the nucleus through modifications in the telomeric protein TRF1. TRF1, a component of the shelterin complex that protects the ends of our chromosomes, is modified by the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which senses the extracellular nutritional conditions. We generated knock-in human cell lines carrying mutant TRF1 variants unable to be modified by AKT. TRF1 mutant cells show decreased TRF1 binding to telomeres, increased DNA damage and accelerated telomere shortening. TRF1 mutant cells show an impaired TRF1 stability in response to proliferative extracellular signals and a decreased tumorigenesis potential, demonstrating that telomere function and telomere length are regulated by extracellular signals upstream of PI3K/AKT activation.
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27
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Goh CJH, Wong JH, El Farran C, Tan BX, Coffill CR, Loh YH, Lane D, Arumugam P. Identification of pathways modulating vemurafenib resistance in melanoma cells via a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 screen. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2021; 11:jkaa069. [PMID: 33604667 PMCID: PMC8022920 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkaa069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vemurafenib is a BRAF kinase inhibitor (BRAFi) that is used to treat melanoma patients harboring the constitutively active BRAF-V600E mutation. However, after a few months of treatment patients often develop resistance to vemurafenib leading to disease progression. Sequence analysis of drug-resistant tumor cells and functional genomic screens has identified several genes that regulate vemurafenib resistance. Reactivation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a recurrent feature of cells that develop resistance to vemurafenib. We performed a genome-scale CRISPR-based knockout screen to identify modulators of vemurafenib resistance in melanoma cells with a highly improved CRISPR sgRNA library called Brunello. We identified 33 genes that regulate resistance to vemurafenib out of which 14 genes have not been reported before. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that the hit genes regulate histone modification, transcription and cell cycle. We discuss how inactivation of hit genes might confer resistance to vemurafenib and provide a framework for follow-up investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jin Huei Wong
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), A*STAR, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Chadi El Farran
- Epigenetics and Cell Fates Laboratory, A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Ban Xiong Tan
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, A*STAR, Singapore 138670, Singapore
| | | | - Yuin-Hain Loh
- Epigenetics and Cell Fates Laboratory, A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - David Lane
- p53Lab, A*STAR, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Prakash Arumugam
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), A*STAR, Singapore 138671, Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Food and Biotechnology Innovation, Singapore 138632, Singapore
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28
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Bhari VK, Kumar D, Kumar S, Mishra R. Shelterin complex gene: Prognosis and therapeutic vulnerability in cancer. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 26:100937. [PMID: 33553693 PMCID: PMC7859307 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.100937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere encompasses a (TTAGGG)n tandem repeats, and its dysfunction has emerged as the epicenter of driving carcinogenesis by promoting genetic instability. Indeed, they play an essential role in stabilizing chromosomes and therefore protecting them from end-to-end fusion and DNA degradation. Telomere length homeostasis is regulated by several key players including shelterin complex genes, telomerase, and various other regulators. Targeting these regulatory players can be a good approach to combat cancer as telomere length is increasingly correlated with cancer initiation and progression. In this review, we have aimed to describe the telomere length regulator's role in prognostic significance and important drug targets in breast cancer. Moreover, we also assessed alteration in telomeric function by various telomere length regulators and compares this to the regulatory mechanisms that can be associated with clinical biomarkers in cancer. Using publicly available software we summarized mutational and CpG island prediction analysis of the TERT gene breast cancer patient database. Studies have reported that the TERT gene has prognostic significance in breast cancer progression however mechanistic approaches are not defined yet. Interestingly, we reported using the UCSC Xena web-based tool, we confirmed a positive correlation of shelterin complex genes TERF1 and TERF2 in recurrent free survival, indicating the critical role of these genes in breast cancer prognosis. Moreover, the epigenetic landscape of DNA damage repair genes in different breast cancer subtypes also being analyzed using the UCSC Xena database. Together, these datasets provide a comprehensive resource for shelterin complex gene profiles and define epigenetic landscapes of DNA damage repair genes which reveals the key role of shelterin complex genes in breast cancer with the potential to identify novel and actionable targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Kumar Bhari
- Department of Biosciences, Manipal University Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Durgesh Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Government Medical College, Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Surendra Kumar
- Department of Neurology, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Rajeev Mishra
- Department of Biosciences, Manipal University Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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29
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Luo Z, Liu W, Sun P, Wang F, Feng X. Pan-cancer analyses reveal regulation and clinical outcome association of the shelterin complex in cancer. Brief Bioinform 2021; 22:6120315. [PMID: 33497432 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbaa441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Shelterin, a protective complex at telomeres, plays essential roles in cancer. In addition to maintain telomere integrity, shelterin functions in various survival pathways. However, the detailed mechanisms of shelterin regulation in cancer remain elusive. Here, we perform a comprehensive analysis of shelterin in 9125 tumor samples across 33 cancer types using multi-omic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and validate some findings in Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas and cancer cell lines from Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. In the genomic landscape, we identify the amplification of TRF1 and POT1, co-amplification/deletion of TRF2-RAP1-TPP1 as the dominant alteration events. Clustering analysis based on shelterin expression reveals three cancer clusters with different degree of genome instability. To measure overall shelterin activity in cancer, we derive a shelterin score based on shelterin expression. Pathway analysis shows shelterin is positively correlated with E2F targets, while is negatively correlated with p53 pathway. Importantly, shelterin links to tumor immunity and predicts response to PD-1 blockade immune therapy. In-depth miRNA analysis reveals a miRNA-shelterin interaction network, with p53 regulated miRNAs targeting multiple shelterin components. We also identify a significant amount of lncRNAs regulating shelterin expression. In addition, we find shelterin expression could be used to predict patient survival in 24 cancer types. Finally, by mining the connective map database, we discover a number of potential drugs that might target shelterin. In summary, this study provides broad molecular signatures for further functional and therapeutic studies of shelterin, and also represents a systemic approach to characterize key protein complex in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Luo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Weijin Liu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Panpan Sun
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Xuyang Feng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
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30
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[Are telomeres and telomerase still relevant targets in oncology?]. Bull Cancer 2020; 108:30-38. [PMID: 33256968 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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31
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Using telomeric chromosomal aberrations to evaluate clastogen-induced genomic instability in mammalian cells. Chromosome Res 2020; 28:259-276. [DOI: 10.1007/s10577-020-09641-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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32
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Guterres AN, Villanueva J. Targeting telomerase for cancer therapy. Oncogene 2020; 39:5811-5824. [PMID: 32733068 PMCID: PMC7678952 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01405-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Telomere maintenance via telomerase reactivation is a nearly universal hallmark of cancer cells which enables replicative immortality. In contrast, telomerase activity is silenced in most adult somatic cells. Thus, telomerase represents an attractive target for highly selective cancer therapeutics. However, development of telomerase inhibitors has been challenging and thus far there are no clinically approved strategies exploiting this cancer target. The discovery of prevalent mutations in the TERT promoter region in many cancers and recent advances in telomerase biology has led to a renewed interest in targeting this enzyme. Here we discuss recent efforts targeting telomerase, including immunotherapies and direct telomerase inhibitors, as well as emerging approaches such as targeting TERT gene expression driven by TERT promoter mutations. We also address some of the challenges to telomerase-directed therapies including potential therapeutic resistance and considerations for future therapeutic applications and translation into the clinical setting. Although much work remains to be done, effective strategies targeting telomerase will have a transformative impact for cancer therapy and the prospect of clinically effective drugs is boosted by recent advances in structural models of human telomerase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam N Guterres
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jessie Villanueva
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Melanoma Research Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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33
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Berei J, Eckburg A, Miliavski E, Anderson AD, Miller RJ, Dein J, Giuffre AM, Tang D, Deb S, Racherla KS, Patel M, Vela MS, Puri N. Potential Telomere-Related Pharmacological Targets. Curr Top Med Chem 2020; 20:458-484. [DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200109114339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Telomeres function as protective caps at the terminal portion of chromosomes, containing
non-coding nucleotide sequence repeats. As part of their protective function, telomeres preserve genomic
integrity and minimize chromosomal exposure, thus limiting DNA damage responses. With
continued mitotic divisions in normal cells, telomeres progressively shorten until they reach a threshold
at a point where they activate senescence or cell death pathways. However, the presence of the enzyme
telomerase can provide functional immortality to the cells that have reached or progressed past
senescence. In senescent cells that amass several oncogenic mutations, cancer formation can occur due
to genomic instability and the induction of telomerase activity. Telomerase has been found to be expressed
in over 85% of human tumors and is labeled as a near-universal marker for cancer. Due to this
feature being present in a majority of tumors but absent in most somatic cells, telomerase and telomeres
have become promising targets for the development of new and effective anticancer therapeutics.
In this review, we evaluate novel anticancer targets in development which aim to alter telomerase
or telomere function. Additionally, we analyze the progress that has been made, including preclinical
studies and clinical trials, with therapeutics directed at telomere-related targets. Furthermore, we review
the potential telomere-related therapeutics that are used in combination therapy with more traditional
cancer treatments. Throughout the review, topics related to medicinal chemistry are discussed,
including drug bioavailability and delivery, chemical structure-activity relationships of select therapies,
and the development of a unique telomere assay to analyze compounds affecting telomere elongation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Berei
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Adam Eckburg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Edward Miliavski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Austin D. Anderson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Rachel J. Miller
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Joshua Dein
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Allison M. Giuffre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Diana Tang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Shreya Deb
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Kavya Sri Racherla
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Meet Patel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Monica Saravana Vela
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
| | - Neelu Puri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
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34
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Cherfils-Vicini J, Gilson E. Inhibiting TRF1 upstream signaling pathways to target telomeres in cancer cells. EMBO Mol Med 2019; 11:e10845. [PMID: 31273935 PMCID: PMC6609909 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201910845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the context of tumorigenesis, telomere shortening is associated with apparent antagonistic outcomes: On one side, it favors cancer initiation through mechanisms involving genome instability, while on the other side, it prevents cancer progression, due to the activation of the DNA damage response (DDR) checkpoint behaving as a cell-intrinsic proliferation barrier. Consequently, telomerase, which can compensate for replicative erosion by adding telomeric DNA repeats at the chromosomal DNA extremities, is crucial for cancer progression and is upregulated in nearly 90% of human cancers. Therefore, telomeres are considered potential anti-cancer targets and, to date, most of the studies have focused on telomerase inhibition. However, the development of clinically efficient telomerase targeting therapies is still in its infancy. In this context, the findings reported in this issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine by Bejarano et al (2019) open new avenues for alternative telomere therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Cherfils-Vicini
- Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR7284, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1081, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN), Nice, France
| | - Eric Gilson
- Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR7284, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1081, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN), Nice, France
- Department of Medical Genetics, Archet 2 Hospital, CHU of Nice, Nice, France
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