1
|
Huang R, Jin X, Jiang Z, Wang Y, Wu Y, Wang L, Zhu W. Genetically evaluating the causal role of peripheral immune cells in colorectal cancer: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:753. [PMID: 38902711 PMCID: PMC11191266 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12515-z] [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: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Investigating novel therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer (CRC) is imperative. However, there is limited research on the use of drugs to target peripheral blood immune cells in this context. To address this gap, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to identify potential therapeutic targets for CRC. METHODS We applied two-sample MR to identify the causal relationship between peripheral blood immune cells and CRC. GWAS data were obtained from the IEU OPEN GWAS project. Based on the implications from the MR results, we conducted a comprehensive database search and genetic analysis to explore potential underlying mechanisms. We predicted miRNAs for each gene and employed extensive research for potential therapeutic applications. RESULTS We have identified causal associations between two peripheral immune cells and colorectal cancer. Activated & resting Treg %CD4 + cell was positively associated with the risks of CRC, while DN (CD4-CD8-) %leukocyte cell exhibited a protective role in tumor progression. NEK7 (NIMA related kinase 7) and LHX9 (LIM homeobox 9) expressed in Treg cells were positively associated with CRC risks and may play a vital role in carcinogenesis. CONCLUSIONS This study identified causal relationship between peripheral immune cell and CRC. Treg and DN T cells were implicated to own promoting and inhibiting effects on CRC progression respectively. NEK7 and LHX9 in Treg cells were identified as potential biotarget for antitumor therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runze Huang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziting Jiang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixiu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yibin Wu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Weiping Zhu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen L, Ballout F, Lu H, Hu T, Zhu S, Chen Z, Peng D. Differential Expression of NEK Kinase Family Members in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma and Barrett's Esophagus. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4821. [PMID: 37835513 PMCID: PMC10571661 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) has risen rapidly during the past four decades, making it the most common type of esophageal cancer in the USA and Western countries. The NEK (Never in mitosis A (NIMA) related kinase) gene family is a group of serine/threonine kinases with 11 members. Aberrant expression of NEKs has been recently found in a variety of human cancers and plays important roles in tumorigenesis, progression, and drug-resistance. However, the expression of the NEKs in EAC and its precancerous condition (Barrett's esophagus, BE) has not been investigated. In the present study, we first analyzed the TCGA and 9 GEO databases (a total of 10 databases in which 8 contain EAC and 6 contain BE) using bioinformatic approaches for NEKs expression in EAC and BE. We identified that several NEK members, such as NEK2 (7/8), NEK3 (6/8), and NEK6 (6/8), were significantly upregulated in EAC as compared to normal esophagus samples. Alternatively, NEK1 was downregulated in EAC as compared to the normal esophagus. On the contrary, genomic alterations of these NEKs are not frequent in EAC. We validated the above findings using qRT-PCR and the protein expression of NEKs in EAC cell lines using Western blotting and in primary EAC tissues using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Our data suggest that frequent upregulation of NEK2, NEK3, and NEK7 may be important in EAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
| | - Farah Ballout
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
| | - Heng Lu
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Tianling Hu
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
| | - Shoumin Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
| | - Zheng Chen
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Dunfa Peng
- Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (L.C.); (F.B.); (H.L.); (T.H.); (S.Z.); (Z.C.)
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Joseph BB, Naslavsky N, Binti S, Conquest S, Robison L, Bai G, Homer RO, Grant BD, Caplan S, Fay DS. Conserved NIMA kinases regulate multiple steps of endocytic trafficking. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010741. [PMID: 37099601 PMCID: PMC10166553 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human NIMA-related kinases have primarily been studied for their roles in cell cycle progression (NEK1/2/6/7/9), checkpoint-DNA-damage control (NEK1/2/4/5/10/11), and ciliogenesis (NEK1/4/8). We previously showed that Caenorhabditis elegans NEKL-2 (NEK8/9 homolog) and NEKL-3 (NEK6/7 homolog) regulate apical clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) in the worm epidermis and are essential for molting. Here we show that NEKL-2 and NEKL-3 also have distinct roles in controlling endosome function and morphology. Specifically, loss of NEKL-2 led to enlarged early endosomes with long tubular extensions but showed minimal effects on other compartments. In contrast, NEKL-3 depletion caused pronounced defects in early, late, and recycling endosomes. Consistently, NEKL-2 was strongly localized to early endosomes, whereas NEKL-3 was localized to multiple endosomal compartments. Loss of NEKLs also led to variable defects in the recycling of two resident cargoes of the trans-Golgi network (TGN), MIG-14/Wntless and TGN-38/TGN38, which were missorted to lysosomes after NEKL depletion. In addition, defects were observed in the uptake of clathrin-dependent (SMA-6/Type I BMP receptor) and independent cargoes (DAF-4/Type II BMP receptor) from the basolateral surface of epidermal cells after NEKL-2 or NEKL-3 depletion. Complementary studies in human cell lines further showed that siRNA knockdown of the NEKL-3 orthologs NEK6 and NEK7 led to missorting of the mannose 6-phosphate receptor from endosomes. Moreover, in multiple human cell types, depletion of NEK6 or NEK7 disrupted both early and recycling endosomal compartments, including the presence of excess tubulation within recycling endosomes, a defect also observed after NEKL-3 depletion in worms. Thus, NIMA family kinases carry out multiple functions during endocytosis in both worms and humans, consistent with our previous observation that human NEKL-3 orthologs can rescue molting and trafficking defects in C. elegans nekl-3 mutants. Our findings suggest that trafficking defects could underlie some of the proposed roles for NEK kinases in human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braveen B. Joseph
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Naava Naslavsky
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
- The Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Shaonil Binti
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Sylvia Conquest
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Lexi Robison
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Ge Bai
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Rafael O. Homer
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Barth D. Grant
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Steve Caplan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
- The Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - David S. Fay
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture Life Sciences, and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang J, Sun H, Guo R, Guo J, Tian X, Wang J, Sun S, Han Y, Wang Y. Exosomal miR-23b-3p from bone mesenchymal stem cells alleviates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by inhibiting microglial pyroptosis. Exp Neurol 2023; 363:114374. [PMID: 36907352 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and is marked by inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. Recent studies have highlighted the therapeutic value of exosomes (Exos) obtained from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in MS treatment. These BMSC-Exos contain biologically active molecules that show promising results in preclinical evaluations. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of BMSC-Exos containing miR-23b-3p in both LPS-stimulated BV2 microglia and in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for MS. Exos were isolated from BMSCs, and their effects were evaluated in vitro by co-culturing with BV2 microglia. The interaction between miR-23b-3p and its downstream targets was also explored. The efficacy of BMSC-Exos was further verified in vivo by injecting the Exos into EAE mice. The results showed that BMSC-Exos containing miR-23b-3p reduced microglial pyroptosis in vivo by specifically binding to and suppressing the expression of NEK7. In vivo, BMSC-Exos containing miR-23b-3p alleviated the severity of EAE by decreasing microglial inflammation and pyroptosis via the repression of NEK7. These findings provide new insights into the therapeutic potential of BMSC-Exos containing miR-23b-3p for MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jueqiong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Huanhuan Sun
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ruoyi Guo
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jiangyuan Guo
- Department of Neurology, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xinyi Tian
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinli Wang
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shichao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yusen Han
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Panchal NK, Evan Prince S. The NEK family of serine/threonine kinases as a biomarker for cancer. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:17-30. [PMID: 35037094 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00782-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is defined by unrestrained cell proliferation due to impaired protein activity. Cell cycle-related proteins are likely to play a role in human cancers, including proliferation, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. The serine/threonine NEK kinases are the part of Never In Mitosis A Kinases (NIMA) family, which are less explored kinase family involved in the cell cycle, checkpoint regulation, and cilia biology. They comprise of eleven members, namely NEK1, NEK2, NEK3, NEK4, NEK5, NEK6, NEK7, NEK8, NEK9, NEK10, and NEK11, located in different cellular regions. Recent research has shown the role of NEK family in various cancers by perversely expressing. Therefore, this review aimed to provide a systematic account of our understanding of NEK kinases; structural details; and its role in the cell cycle regulation. Furthermore, we have comprehensively reviewed the NEK kinases in terms of their expression and regulation in different cancers. Lastly, we have emphasized on some of the potential NEK inhibitors reported so far.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nagesh Kishan Panchal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632 014, India
| | - Sabina Evan Prince
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632 014, India.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wang J, Chen S, Liu M, Zhang M, Jia X. NEK7: a new target for the treatment of multiple tumors and chronic inflammatory diseases. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:1179-1187. [PMID: 35829941 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-01026-7] [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: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
NIMA-related kinase 7 (NEK7) is a serine/threonine kinase, which is the smallest one in mammalian NEK family. At present, many studies have reported that NEK7 has a physiological role in regulating the cell cycle and promoting the mitotic process of cells. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have proposed that NEK7 is involved in the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Under normal conditions, NEK7 is in a low activity state, while under pathological conditions, NEK7 is abnormally expressed and therefore plays a key role in the progression of multiple tumors and chronic inflammatory diseases. This review will concentrate on the mechanism of NEK7 participates in the process of mitosis and regulates the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, the aberrant expression of NEK7 in a variety of tumors and chronic inflammatory diseases, and some potential inhibitors, which may provide some new ideas for the treatment of diverse tumors and chronic inflammatory diseases associated with NEK7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Simeng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyi Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China. .,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China. .,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research and Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sun Z, Wang Q, Sun L, Wu M, Li S, Hua H, Sun Y, Ni T, Zhou C, Huang S, Zhang A, Zhang Y, Jia Z. Acetaminophen-induced reduction of NIMA related kinase 7 expression exacerbates acute liver injury. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100545. [PMID: 36097583 PMCID: PMC9463592 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) is a global health issue characterised by an incomplete understanding of its pathogenesis and unsatisfactory therapies. NEK7 plays critical roles in both cell cycle regulation and inflammation. In the present study, we investigated the role and mechanism of NEK7 in APAP-induced ALI. Methods In mice with NEK7 overexpression (hydrodynamic tail vein injection of NEK7 plasmids), hepatocyte-specific NEK7 knockout (cKO), and inducible NEK7 knockout (iKO), an overdose of APAP was administered to induce ALI. Liver injury was determined by an analysis of serum liver enzymes, pathological changes, inflammatory cytokines, and metabonomic profiles. In vitro, hepatocyte damage was evaluated by an analysis of cell viability, the reactive oxygen species levels, and mitochondrial function in different cell lines. Hepatocyte proliferation and the cell cycle status were determined by Ki-67 staining, EdU staining, and the cyclin levels. Results NEK7 was markedly downregulated in APAP-induced injured liver and damaged hepatocytes. NEK7 overexpression in the liver significantly alleviated APAP-induced liver injury, as shown by the restored liver function, reduced pathological injury, and decreased inflammation and oxidative stress, which was confirmed in a hepatocyte cell line. Moreover, both NEK7 cKO and iKO mice exhibited exacerbation of APAP-induced ALI. Finally, we determined that cyclin B1-mediated cell cycle progression could mediate the protective effect of NEK7 against APAP-induced ALI. Conclusions Reduced NEK7 contributes to APAP-induced ALI, possibly by dysregulating cyclins and disturbing cell cycle progression. Lay summary Acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury is one of the major global health issues, owing to its high incidence, potential severity, and limited therapeutic options. Our current understanding of its pathogenesis is incomplete. Herein, we have shown that reduced NEK7 (a protein with a key role in the cell cycle) exacerbates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury. Hence, NEK7 could be a possible therapeutic target for the prevention or treatment of this condition. NEK7 was downregulated in livers following APAP overdose challenge. Reduced NEK7 worsened APAP-induced acute liver injury. Reduced NEK7 dysregulated cyclins and cell cycle progression. Cyclin B1 overexpression attenuated NEK7 reduction-related worsening of APAP-induced acute liver injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Sun
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Sun
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengying Wu
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuzhen Li
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hu Hua
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tong Ni
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunlei Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Songming Huang
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Corresponding authors. Addresses: Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road #72, Nanjing 210008, China. Tel.: +86-25-8311-7309; Fax: +86-25-8330-4239.
| | - Aihua Zhang
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road #72, Nanjing 210008, China. Tel.: +86-25-8311-7309; Fax: +86-25-8330-4239.
| | - Yue Zhang
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Corresponding authors. Addresses: Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road #72, Nanjing 210008, China. Tel.: +86-25-8311-7309; Fax: +86-25-8330-4239.
| | - Zhanjun Jia
- Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Corresponding authors. Addresses: Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road #72, Nanjing 210008, China. Tel.: +86-25-8311-7309; Fax: +86-25-8330-4239.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
In Mitosis You Are Not: The NIMA Family of Kinases in Aspergillus, Yeast, and Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074041. [PMID: 35409400 PMCID: PMC8999480 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074041] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Never in mitosis gene A (NIMA) family of serine/threonine kinases is a diverse group of protein kinases implicated in a wide variety of cellular processes, including cilia regulation, microtubule dynamics, mitotic processes, cell growth, and DNA damage response. The founding member of this family was initially identified in Aspergillus and was found to play important roles in mitosis and cell division. The yeast family has one member each, Fin1p in fission yeast and Kin3p in budding yeast, also with functions in mitotic processes, but, overall, these are poorly studied kinases. The mammalian family, the main focus of this review, consists of 11 members named Nek1 to Nek11. With the exception of a few members, the functions of the mammalian Neks are poorly understood but appear to be quite diverse. Like the prototypical NIMA, many members appear to play important roles in mitosis and meiosis, but their functions in the cell go well beyond these well-established activities. In this review, we explore the roles of fungal and mammalian NIMA kinases and highlight the most recent findings in the field.
Collapse
|
9
|
Yan Z, Da Q, Li Z, Lin Q, Yi J, Su Y, Yu G, Ren Q, Liu X, Lin Z, Qu J, Yin W, Liu J. Inhibition of NEK7 Suppressed Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression by Mediating Cancer Cell Pyroptosis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:812655. [PMID: 35223495 PMCID: PMC8866693 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.812655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
NIMA-related kinase 7 (NEK7) is a serine/threonine kinase involved in cell cycle progression via mitotic spindle formation and cytokinesis. It has been related to multiple cancers, including breast cancer, hepatocellular cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. Moreover, NEK7 regulated the NLRP3 inflammasome to activate Caspase-1, resulting in cell pyroptosis. In the present study, we investigated whether NEK7 is involved in cell pyroptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Interestingly, we found that NEK7 was significantly related to expression of pyroptosis marker GSDMD in HCC. We found that NEK7 expression was significantly correlated with GSDMD expression in bioinformatics analysis, and NEK7 expression was significantly co-expressed with GSDMD in our HCC specimens. Cell viability, migration, and invasion capacity of HCC cell lines were inhibited, and the tumor growth in the xenograft mouse model was also suppressed following knockdown of NEK7 expression. Mechanistic studies revealed that knockdown of NEK7 in HCC cells significantly upregulated the expression of pyroptosis markers such as NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD. Coculture of HCC cells stimulated hepatic stellate cell activation by increasing p-ERK1/2 and α-SMA. Knockdown of NEK7 impaired the stimulation of HCC cells. Therefore, downregulation of NEK7 inhibited cancer–stromal interaction by triggering cancer cell pyroptosis. Taken together, this study highlights the functional role of NEK7-regulated pyroptosis in tumor progression and cancer–stromal interaction of HCC, suggesting NEK7 as a potential target for a new therapeutic strategy of HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qingen Da
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhangfu Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qirui Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Yi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanze Su
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guanyin Yu
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qingqi Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zewei Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianhua Qu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weihua Yin
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jikui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ketzer F, Abdelrasoul H, Vogel M, Marienfeld R, Müschen M, Jumaa H, Wirth T, Ushmorov A. CCND3 is indispensable for the maintenance of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:1. [PMID: 35013097 PMCID: PMC8748974 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-021-00377-0] [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: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The D-type cyclins (CCND1, CCND2, and CCND3) in association with CDK4/6 are known drivers of cell cycle progression. We reported previously that inactivation of FOXO1 confers growth arrest and apoptosis in B-ALL, partially mediated by subsequent depletion of CCND3. Given that previously the canonical MYC target CCND2 has been considered to play the major role in B-ALL proliferation, further investigation of the role of FOXO1 in CCND3 transcription and the role of CCND3 in B-ALL is warranted. In this study, we demonstrated that CCND3 is essential for the proliferation and survival of B-ALL, independent of the mutational background. Respectively, its expression at mRNA level exceeds that of CCND1 and CCND2. Furthermore, we identified FOXO1 as a CCND3-activating transcription factor in B-ALL. By comparing the effects of CCND3 depletion and CDK4/6 inhibition by palbociclib on B-ALL cells harboring different driver mutations, we found that the anti-apoptotic effect of CCND3 is independent of the kinase activity of the CCND3-CDK4/6 complex. Moreover, we found that CCND3 contributes to CDK8 transcription, which in part might explain the anti-apoptotic effect of CCND3. Finally, we found that increased CCND3 expression is associated with the development of resistance to palbociclib. We conclude that CCND3 plays an essential role in the maintenance of B-ALL, regardless of the underlying driver mutation. Moreover, downregulation of CCND3 expression might be superior to inhibition of CDK4/6 kinase activity in terms of B-ALL treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franz Ketzer
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Hend Abdelrasoul
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XInstitute of Immunology, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Mona Vogel
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Molecular Medicine, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ralf Marienfeld
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XInstitute of Pathology, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Müschen
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Center of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Yale School of Medicine, 300 George Street, 06520 New Haven, CT USA
| | - Hassan Jumaa
- grid.410712.10000 0004 0473 882XInstitute of Immunology, Ulm University Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Wirth
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexey Ushmorov
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a very deadly disease. HCC initiation and progression involve multiple genetic events, including the activation of proto-oncogenes and disruption of the function of specific tumor suppressor genes. Activation of oncogenes stimulates cell growth and survival, while loss-of-function mutations of tumor suppressor genes result in unrestrained cell growth. In this review, we summarize the new findings that identified novel proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressors in HCC over the past five years. These findings may inspire the development of novel therapeutic strategies to improve the outcome of HCC patients.
Collapse
|
12
|
Liu R, Liu Y, Liu C, Gao A, Wang L, Tang H, Wu Q, Wang X, Tian D, Qi Z, Shen Y. NEK7-Mediated Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome Is Coordinated by Potassium Efflux/Syk/JNK Signaling During Staphylococcus aureus Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:747370. [PMID: 34603335 PMCID: PMC8481599 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.747370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a foodborne pathogen that causes severe diseases, such as endocarditis, sepsis, and bacteremia. As an important component of innate immune system, the NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a critical role in defense against pathogen infection. However, the cellular mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasome activation during S. aureus infection remains unknown. In the present study, we found that spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) were rapidly phosphorylated during S. aureus infection. Moreover, a Syk/JNK inhibitor and Syk/JNK siRNA not only reduced NLRP3 inflammasome-associated molecule expression at the protein and mRNA levels, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase-recruitment domain (ASC) speck formation, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18 release but also rescued the decreased NIMA-related kinase 7 (NEK7) expression level following suppression of the NEK7-NLRP3 interaction in macrophages. Interestingly, Syk/JNK phosphorylation levels and NLRP3 inflammasome-associated molecule expression were decreased by blockade of K+ efflux. Furthermore, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and a lower NEK7 protein level were found in vivo upon S. aureus infection. Taken together, our data indicated that S. aureus infection induces a K+ efflux/Syk/JNK/NEK7-NLRP3 signaling pathway and the subsequent activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome for the release of proinflammatory cytokines. This study expands our understanding of the basic molecular mechanism regulating inflammation and provides potential value for anti-infective drug development against S. aureus infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqing Liu
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yashan Liu
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Aijiao Gao
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lin Wang
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Huixin Tang
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases Of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Derun Tian
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhi Qi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanna Shen
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sultan S, Ahmed F, Bajouh O, Schulten HJ, Bagatian N, Al-Dayini R, Subhi O, Karim S, Almalki S. Alterations of transcriptome expression, cell cycle, and mitochondrial superoxide reveal foetal endothelial dysfunction in Saudi women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Endocr J 2021; 68:1067-1079. [PMID: 33867398 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej21-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects one in four Saudi women and is associated with high risks of cardiovascular diseases in both the mother and foetus. It is believed that endothelial cells (ECs) dysfunction initiates these diabetic complications. In this study, differences in the transcriptome profiles, cell cycle distribution, and mitochondrial superoxide (MTS) between human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) from GDM patients and those from healthy (control) subjects were analysed. Transcriptome profiles were generated using high-density expression microarray. The selected four altered genes were validated using qRT-PCR. MTS and cell cycle were analysed by flow cytometry. A total of 84 altered genes were identified, comprising 52 upregulated and 32 downregulated genes in GDM.HUVECs. Our selection of the four interested altered genes (TGFB2, KITLG, NEK7, and IGFBP5) was based on the functional network analysis, which revealed that these altered genes are belonging to the highest enrichment score associated with cellular function and proliferation; all of which may contribute to ECs dysfunction. The cell cycle revealed an increased percentage of cells in the G2/M phase in GDM.HUVECs, indicating cell cycle arrest. In addition, we found that GDM.HUVECs had increased MTS generation. In conclusion, GDM induces persistent impairment of the biological functions of foetal ECs, as evidenced by analyses of transcriptome profiles, cell cycle, and MTS even after ECs culture in vitro for several passages under normal glucose conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samar Sultan
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farid Ahmed
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Bajouh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hans-Juergen Schulten
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadia Bagatian
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Roaa Al-Dayini
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ohoud Subhi
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sajjad Karim
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultanah Almalki
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li YK, Zhu XR, Zhan Y, Yuan WZ, Jin WL. NEK7 promotes gastric cancer progression as a cell proliferation regulator. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:438. [PMID: 34419048 PMCID: PMC8379724 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02148-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive system. However, its targeted therapy develops at a slow pace. Thus, exploring the mechanisms of the malignant behavior of gastric cancer cells is crucial to exploit its treatment. Mammalian never-in-mitosis A (NIMA)-related kinases (NEKs) are considered to play a significant role in cancer cell proliferation. However, no study has reported on NIMA family proteins in gastric cancer. Methods Bioinformatics analysis was employed to clarify the expression patterns of NEK1–NEK11 and their effects on prognosis. The effects of NEK7 on immune infiltration and NEK7 related pathways were also analyzed. At the cell level, 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine, cell cycle, and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays were utilized to clarify the effect of NEK7 on gastric cancer cell proliferation. A mouse subcutaneous model revealed the regulating effect of NEK7 on gastric cancer cell proliferation in vivo. Results Bioinformatics analysis revealed that NEK7 is upregulated in gastric cancer and is related to poor prognosis. NEK7 is also related to T-stage, which is closely associated with cell proliferation. Further analysis showed that NEK7 was correlated with infiltration of multiple immune cells as well as gastric cancer-related pathways. Cell experiments indicated the promoting effect of NEK7 on cell proliferation, while the absence of NEK7 could lead to inhibition of gastric cancer proliferation and G1/S arrest. Conclusion NEK7 exerts a regulatory effect on cell proliferation and is closely related to tumor immune infiltration. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02148-8.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ke Li
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ran Zhu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.,Medical Pioneer Innovation Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhan
- Medical Pioneer Innovation Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Zhen Yuan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China. .,Medical Pioneer Innovation Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China. .,Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China. .,Medical Pioneer Innovation Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yan Z, Qu J, Li Z, Yi J, Su Y, Lin Q, Yu G, Lin Z, Yin W, Lu F, Liu J. NEK7 Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression And Its Expression Is Correlated With Poor Prognosis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:705797. [PMID: 34295827 PMCID: PMC8290842 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.705797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients is still dismal. Elucidation of associated genomic alteration may provide effective therapeutic strategies for PDAC treatment. NIMA-related protein kinase 7 is widely expressed in various tumors, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer and lung cancer, and promotes the proliferation of liver cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. We investigated the protein expression level of NEK7 in tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues using immunohistochemistry of 90 patients with PADC. Meanwhile, the RNA expression level of NEK7 was examined using database-based bioinformatic analysis. Correlation and significance of NEK7 expression with patient clinicopathological features and prognosis were examined. Cell proliferation, cell adhesion, migration and invasion capabilities were measured following downregulation of NEK7 expression. 3D tumor organoids of pancreatic cancer were established and splenic xenografted into nude mice, then liver metastatic ability of NEK7 was evaluated in following 4 weeks. We observed NEK7 expression was upregulated in tumor tissues compared to normal tissues at both RNA and protein levels using bioinformatic analysis and immunohistochemistry analysis in PDAC. NEK7 expression was undetectable in normal pancreatic ducts; NEK7 was overexpressed in primary tumor of PDAC; NEK7 expression was highly correlated with advanced T stage, poorly differentiated histological grade invasive ductal carcinoma, and lymphatic invasion. Meanwhile, patients with higher NEK7 expression accompanied by worse survival outcome. Moreover, NEK7 promoted migration, invasion, adhesion, proliferation and liver metastatic ability of pancreatic cancer cells. Taken together, our data indicate that NEK7 promotes pancreatic cancer progression and it may be a potential marker for PDAC prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianhua Qu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhangfu Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Yi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanze Su
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qirui Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guangyin Yu
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zewei Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weihua Yin
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jikui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sun Z, Gong W, Zhang Y, Jia Z. Physiological and Pathological Roles of Mammalian NEK7. Front Physiol 2020; 11:606996. [PMID: 33364979 PMCID: PMC7750478 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.606996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
NEK7 is the smallest NIMA-related kinase (NEK) in mammals. The pathological and physiological roles of NEK7 have been widely reported in many studies. To date, the major function of NEK7 has been well documented in mitosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, but the detailed mechanisms of its regulation remain unclear. This review summarizes current advances in NEK7 research involving mitotic regulation, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, related diseases and potential inhibitors, which may provide new insights into the understanding and therapy of the diseases associated with NEK7, as well as the subsequent studies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Gong
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhanjun Jia
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhao N, Li CC, Di B, Xu LL. Recent advances in the NEK7-licensed NLRP3 inflammasome activation: Mechanisms, role in diseases and related inhibitors. J Autoimmun 2020; 113:102515. [PMID: 32703754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2020.102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a high-molecular-weight complex mediated by the activation of pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) seed in innate immunity. Once NLRP3 is activated, the following recruitment of the adapter apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (CARD) (ASC) and procaspase-1 would be initiated. Cleavage of procaspase-1 into active caspase-1 then leads to the maturation of the precursor forms of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 into biologically active IL-1β and IL-18. The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome is thought to be tightly associated with a regulator never in mitosis A (NIMA)-related kinase 7 (NEK7), apart from other signaling events such as K+ efflux and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Plus, the NLRP3 inflammasome has been linked to various metabolic disorders, chronic inflammation and other diseases. In this review, we firstly describe the cellular/molecular mechanisms of the NEK7-licensed NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Then we detail the potential inhibitors that can selectively and effectively modulate either the NEK7-NLRP3 complex itself or the related molecular/cellular events. Finally, we describe some inhibitors as promising therapeutic strategies for diverse diseases driven by NLRP3 inflammasome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ni Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Cui-Cui Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Bin Di
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Li-Li Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liu G, Chen X, Wang Q, Yuan L. NEK7: a potential therapy target for NLRP3-related diseases. Biosci Trends 2020; 14:74-82. [PMID: 32295992 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2020.01029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
NLRP3 inflammasome plays an essential role in innate immunity, yet the activation mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasome is not clear. In human or animal models, inappropriate NLRP3 inflammasome activation is implicated in many NLRP3-related diseases, such as tumors, inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases. Until now, a great number of inhibitors have been used to disturb the related signaling pathways, such as IL-1β blockade, IL-18 blockade and caspase-1 inhibitors. Unfortunately, most of these inhibitors just disturb the signaling pathways after the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Inhibitors that directly regulate NLRP3 to abolish the inflammation response may be more effective. NEK7 is a multifunctional kinase affecting centrosome duplication, mitochondrial regulation, intracellular protein transport, DNA repair and mitotic spindle assembly. Researchers have made significant observations on the regulation of gene transcription or protein expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway by NEK7. Those signaling pathways include ROS signaling, potassium efflux, lysosomal destabilization, and NF-κB signaling. Furthermore, NEK7 has been proved to be involved in many NLRP3-related diseases in humans or in animal models. Inhibitors focused on NEK7 may regulate NLRP3 to abolish the inflammation response and NEK7 may be a potential therapeutic target for NLRP3-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ganglei Liu
- Department of Geriatrics Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueliang Chen
- Department of Geriatrics Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Zhuzhou Hospital of Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Lianwen Yuan
- Department of Geriatrics Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Peres de Oliveira A, Kazuo Issayama L, Betim Pavan IC, Riback Silva F, Diniz Melo-Hanchuk T, Moreira Simabuco F, Kobarg J. Checking NEKs: Overcoming a Bottleneck in Human Diseases. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25081778. [PMID: 32294979 PMCID: PMC7221840 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25081778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [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: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In previous years, several kinases, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), have been linked to important human diseases, although some kinase families remain neglected in terms of research, hiding their relevance to therapeutic approaches. Here, a review regarding the NEK family is presented, shedding light on important information related to NEKs and human diseases. NEKs are a large group of homologous kinases with related functions and structures that participate in several cellular processes such as the cell cycle, cell division, cilia formation, and the DNA damage response. The review of the literature points to the pivotal participation of NEKs in important human diseases, like different types of cancer, diabetes, ciliopathies and central nervous system related and inflammatory-related diseases. The different known regulatory molecular mechanisms specific to each NEK are also presented, relating to their involvement in different diseases. In addition, important information about NEKs remains to be elucidated and is highlighted in this review, showing the need for other studies and research regarding this kinase family. Therefore, the NEK family represents an important group of kinases with potential applications in the therapy of human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andressa Peres de Oliveira
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil; (A.P.d.O.); (L.K.I.); (I.C.B.P.); (F.R.S.); (T.D.M.-H.)
| | - Luidy Kazuo Issayama
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil; (A.P.d.O.); (L.K.I.); (I.C.B.P.); (F.R.S.); (T.D.M.-H.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-871, Brazil
| | - Isadora Carolina Betim Pavan
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil; (A.P.d.O.); (L.K.I.); (I.C.B.P.); (F.R.S.); (T.D.M.-H.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-871, Brazil
- Laboratório Multidisciplinar em Alimentos e Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências Aplicadas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, São Paulo 13484-350, Brazil;
| | - Fernando Riback Silva
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil; (A.P.d.O.); (L.K.I.); (I.C.B.P.); (F.R.S.); (T.D.M.-H.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-871, Brazil
| | - Talita Diniz Melo-Hanchuk
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil; (A.P.d.O.); (L.K.I.); (I.C.B.P.); (F.R.S.); (T.D.M.-H.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-871, Brazil
| | - Fernando Moreira Simabuco
- Laboratório Multidisciplinar em Alimentos e Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências Aplicadas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, São Paulo 13484-350, Brazil;
| | - Jörg Kobarg
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-871, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-19-3521-8143
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Joseph BB, Wang Y, Edeen P, Lažetić V, Grant BD, Fay DS. Control of clathrin-mediated endocytosis by NIMA family kinases. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008633. [PMID: 32069276 PMCID: PMC7048319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocytosis, the process by which cells internalize plasma membrane and associated cargo, is regulated extensively by posttranslational modifications. Previous studies suggested the potential involvement of scores of protein kinases in endocytic control, of which only a few have been validated in vivo. Here we show that the conserved NIMA-related kinases NEKL-2/NEK8/9 and NEKL-3/NEK6/7 (the NEKLs) control clathrin-mediated endocytosis in C. elegans. Loss of NEKL-2 or NEKL-3 activities leads to penetrant larval molting defects and to the abnormal localization of trafficking markers in arrested larvae. Using an auxin-based degron system, we also find that depletion of NEKLs in adult-stage C. elegans leads to gross clathrin mislocalization and to a dramatic reduction in clathrin mobility at the apical membrane. Using a non-biased genetic screen to identify suppressors of nekl molting defects, we identified several components and regulators of AP2, the major clathrin adapter complex acting at the plasma membrane. Strikingly, reduced AP2 activity rescues both nekl mutant molting defects as well as associated trafficking phenotypes, whereas increased levels of active AP2 exacerbate nekl defects. Moreover, in a unique example of mutual suppression, NEKL inhibition alleviates defects associated with reduced AP2 activity, attesting to the tight link between NEKL and AP2 functions. We also show that NEKLs are required for the clustering and internalization of membrane cargo required for molting. Notably, we find that human NEKs can rescue molting and trafficking defects in nekl mutant worms, suggesting that the control of intracellular trafficking is an evolutionarily conserved function of NEK family kinases. In order to function properly, cells must continually import materials from the outside. This process, termed endocytosis, is necessary for the uptake of nutrients and for interpreting signals coming from the external environment or from within the body. These signals are critical during animal development but also affect many types of cell behaviors throughout life. In our current work, we show that several highly conserved proteins in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, NEKL-2 and NEKL-3, regulate endocytosis. The human counterparts of NEKL-2 and NEKL-3 have been implicated in cardiovascular and renal diseases as well as many types of cancers. However, their specific functions within cells is incompletely understood and very little is known about their role in endocytosis or how this role might impact disease processes. Here we use several complementary approaches to characterize the specific functions of C. elegans NEKL-2 and NEKL-3 in endocytosis and show that their human counterparts likely have very similar functions. This work paves the way to a better understanding of fundamental biological processes and to determining the cellular functions of proteins connected to human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braveen B. Joseph
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Phil Edeen
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Vladimir Lažetić
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Barth D. Grant
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - David S. Fay
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Han W, Allam SA, Elsawa SF. GLI2-Mediated Inflammation in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1263:55-65. [PMID: 32588323 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-44518-8_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in the development and progression of cancer and has been shown to contribute to resistance to therapy. Inflammation is one of the hallmarks of cancer implicated in disease phenotype. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that regulate inflammation in cancer and consequently how inflammatory mediators promote cancer progression is important for our understanding of cancer cell biology. The transcription factor GLI2 was initially identified as a member of the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway. During the last decade, studies have shown a novel mechanism of GLI2 regulation independent of HH signaling, where GLI2 consequently modulated several cytokine genes in the TME. These studies highlight a novel role for GLI2 as an inflammatory mediatory independent of HH stimulation. This chapter will discuss canonical and noncanonical pathways of GLI2 regulation and some of the downstream cytokine target genes regulated by GLI2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiguo Han
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Shereen A Allam
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Sherine F Elsawa
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen X, Liu G, Yuan Y, Wu G, Wang S, Yuan L. NEK7 interacts with NLRP3 to modulate the pyroptosis in inflammatory bowel disease via NF-κB signaling. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:906. [PMID: 31787755 PMCID: PMC6885517 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2157-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the most common diseases in the gastrointestinal tract related to aberrant inflammation. Pyroptosis, which is characterized by inflammasome formation, the activation of caspase-1, and the separation of the N- and C-terminals of GSDMD, might be related to IBD pathogenesis. NEK7 is an important component of the NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages. We attempted to investigate the mechanism of NEK7 interacting with NLRP3 to modulate the pyroptosis in IBD. NEK7 mRNA and protein expression and pyroptosis-associated factors, including Caspase-1 (p45, p20), NLRP3, and GSDMD, were upregulated in IBD tissues. NEK7 knockdown abolish ATP + LPS-induced pyroptosis in vitro and improved DSS-induced chronic colitis in vivo. NEK7 interacted with NLRP3, as revealed by Co-IP and GST pull-down assays, to exert its effects. Moreover, short-term LPS treatment alone induced no significant changes in NEK7 protein level. TLR4/NF-κB signaling in MODE-K cells could be activated by LPS treatment. LPS-induced NEK7 upregulation could be significantly reversed by JSH-23, an inhibitor of p65. Furthermore, LUC and ChIP assays revealed that RELA might activate the transcription of NEK7 via targeting its promoter region. LPS-induced TLR4/NF-κB activation causes an increase in NEK7 expression by RELA binding NEK7 promoter region. In conclusion, NEK7 interacts with NLRP3 to modulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation, therefore modulating the pyroptosis in MODE-K cells and DSS-induced chronic colitis in mice. We provide a novel mechanism of NEK7-NLRP3 interaction affecting IBD via pyroptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueliang Chen
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China
| | - Ganglei Liu
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, The people's Hospital of Baoan Shenzhen, 518000, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guotao Wu
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China
| | - Shalong Wang
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China
| | - Lianwen Yuan
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410011, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhang J, Wang L, Zhang Y. Downregulation of NIMA-related kinase-7 inhibits cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest in human retinoblastoma cells. Exp Ther Med 2017; 15:1360-1366. [PMID: 29434721 PMCID: PMC5774400 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
NIMA-related kinase-7 (Nek7) is a centrosomal kinase involved in various types of cancer, including gallbladder cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the biological function and the potential underlying mechanism of Nek7 in retinoblastoma remain largely unknown. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of Nek7 in retinoblastoma cells. The expression of Nek7 was initially determined and observed to be commonly upregulated in retinoblastoma cell lines (Y79, SO-RB50 and WERI-RB1) as compared with that in normal retinal pigment epithelium cells. Next, the endogenous expression of Nek7 was efficiently knocked down in Y79 and SO-RB50 cells using a lentivirus-mediated RNA interference approach, as confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Loss-of-function assays, including MTT, colony formation and flow cytometry, indicated that knockdown of Nek7 significantly inhibited cell growth, impaired the colony formation ability and induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, mechanistic studies demonstrated that silencing of Nek7 resulted in reduced cyclin-dependent kinase 2, cyclin D1 and cyclin E levels in vitro. In conclusion, the present study highlights the crucial role of Nek7 in promoting retinoblastoma cell proliferation, and Nek7-silencing may serve as a novel therapeutic target for retinoblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ankang City Central Hospital, Ankang, Shaanxi 725000, P.R. China
| | - Yongkang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial Rehabilitation Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710065, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gupta A, Tsuchiya Y, Ohta M, Shiratsuchi G, Kitagawa D. NEK7 is required for G1 progression and procentriole formation. Mol Biol Cell 2017; 28:2123-2134. [PMID: 28539406 PMCID: PMC5509424 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e16-09-0643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
As cells exit mitosis, the decision to commit to the next cell cycle is made during G1. Not only DNA replication, but also centriole duplication is initiated as cells enter the S-phase. The kinase NEK7 is required for the timely regulation of G1 progression, S-phase entry, and procentriole formation. The decision to commit to the cell cycle is made during G1 through the concerted action of various cyclin–CDK complexes. Not only DNA replication, but also centriole duplication is initiated as cells enter the S-phase. The NIMA-related kinase NEK7 is one of many factors required for proper centriole duplication, as well as for timely cell cycle progression. However, its specific roles in these events are poorly understood. In this study, we find that depletion of NEK7 inhibits progression through the G1 phase in human U2OS cells via down-regulation of various cyclins and CDKs and also inhibits the earliest stages of procentriole formation. Depletion of NEK7 also induces formation of primary cilia in human RPE1 cells, suggesting that NEK7 acts at least before the restriction point during G1. G1-arrested cells in the absence of NEK7 exhibit abnormal accumulation of the APC/C cofactor Cdh1 at the vicinity of centrioles. Furthermore, the ubiquitin ligase APC/CCdh1 continuously degrades the centriolar protein STIL in these cells, thus inhibiting centriole assembly. Collectively our results demonstrate that NEK7 is involved in the timely regulation of G1 progression, S-phase entry, and procentriole formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshari Gupta
- Division of Centrosome Biology, Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Yuki Tsuchiya
- Division of Centrosome Biology, Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Midori Ohta
- Division of Centrosome Biology, Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Gen Shiratsuchi
- Division of Centrosome Biology, Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Daiju Kitagawa
- Division of Centrosome Biology, Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan .,Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lažetić V, Fay DS. Conserved Ankyrin Repeat Proteins and Their NIMA Kinase Partners Regulate Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Intracellular Trafficking in Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetics 2017; 205:273-293. [PMID: 27799278 PMCID: PMC5223508 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.116.194464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Molting is an essential developmental process in nematodes during which the epidermal apical extracellular matrix, the cuticle, is remodeled to accommodate further growth. Using genetic approaches, we identified a requirement for three conserved ankyrin repeat-rich proteins, MLT-2/ANKS6, MLT-3/ANKS3, and MLT-4/INVS, in Caenorhabditis elegans molting. Loss of mlt function resulted in severe defects in the ability of larvae to shed old cuticle and led to developmental arrest. Genetic analyses demonstrated that MLT proteins functionally cooperate with the conserved NIMA kinase family members NEKL-2/NEK8 and NEKL-3/NEK6/NEK7 to promote cuticle shedding. MLT and NEKL proteins were specifically required within the hyp7 epidermal syncytium, and fluorescently tagged mlt and nekl alleles were expressed in puncta within this tissue. Expression studies further showed that NEKL-2-MLT-2-MLT-4 and NEKL-3-MLT-3 colocalize within largely distinct assemblies of apical foci. MLT-2 and MLT-4 were required for the normal accumulation of NEKL-2 at the hyp7-seam cell boundary, and loss of mlt-2 caused abnormal nuclear accumulation of NEKL-2 Correspondingly, MLT-3, which bound directly to NEKL-3, prevented NEKL-3 nuclear localization, supporting the model that MLT proteins may serve as molecular scaffolds for NEKL kinases. Our studies additionally showed that the NEKL-MLT network regulates early steps in clathrin-mediated endocytosis at the apical surface of hyp7, which may in part account for molting defects observed in nekl and mlt mutants. This study has thus identified a conserved NEKL-MLT protein network that regulates remodeling of the apical extracellular matrix and intracellular trafficking, functions that may be conserved across species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Lažetić
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming 82071
| | - David S Fay
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming 82071
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
STC2 as a novel mediator for Mus81-dependent proliferation and survival in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2016; 388:177-186. [PMID: 27939696 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.11.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Methyl methansulfonate and UV sensitive gene clone 81 (Mus81) is a critical DNA repair gene that has been implicated in development of several cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, whether Mus81 can affect proliferation and survival of HCC remains unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated that the knockdown of Mus81 was associated with suppressed proliferation and elevated apoptosis of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Multilayered screenings, including DNA microarray, high content screen, and real-time PCR validation, identified STC2 as a proliferation-facilitating gene significantly down-regulated in HCC cells upon Mus81 knockdown. STC2 expression was also closely correlated to Mus81 expression in HCC tissues. More importantly, the restoration of STC2 expression recovered the compromised cell proliferation and survival in Mus81 depleted HCC cells. Furthermore, Mus81 knockdown was associated with the activation of APAF1, APC, and PTEN pathways and concurrent inhibition of MAPK pathway through decreasing STC2 expression. In conclusion, Mus81 knockdown suppresses proliferation and survival of HCC cells likely by downregulating STC2 expression, implicating Mus81 as a therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
|
27
|
Xu J, Lu L, Li L. NEK7: a novel promising therapy target for NLRP3-related inflammatory diseases. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:966-968. [PMID: 27563009 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmw080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xu
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Learning Key Laboratory for Pharmacoproteomics, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Liqun Lu
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Learning Key Laboratory for Pharmacoproteomics, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Lanfang Li
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Learning Key Laboratory for Pharmacoproteomics, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| |
Collapse
|