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Lu Y, Sun Y, Zhang J, Kong M, Zhao Z, Sun B, Wang Y, Jiang Y, Chen S, Wang C, Tong Y, Wen L, Huang M, Wu F, Zhang L. The deubiquitinase USP2a promotes tumor immunosuppression by stabilizing immune checkpoint B7-H4 in lung adenocarcinoma harboring EGFR-activating mutants. Cancer Lett 2024; 596:217020. [PMID: 38849009 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217020] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
B7-H4 is an immune checkpoint crucial for inhibiting CD8+ T-cell activity. A clinical trial is underway to investigate B7-H4 as a potential immunotherapeutic agent. However, the regulatory mechanism of B7-H4 degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) remains poorly understood. In this study, we discovered that proteasome inhibitors effectively increased B7-H4 expression, while EGFR-activating mutants promoted B7-H4 expression through the UPP. We screened B7-H4 binding proteins by co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry and found that USP2a acted as a deubiquitinase of B7-H4 by removing K48- and K63-linked ubiquitin chains from B7-H4, leading to a reduction in B7-H4 degradation. EGFR mutants enhanced B7-H4 stability by upregulating USP2a expression. We further investigated the role of USP2a in tumor growth in vivo. Depletion of USP2a in L858R/LLC cells inhibited tumor cell proliferation, consequently suppressing tumor growth in immune-deficient nude mice by destabilizing downstream molecules such as Cyclin D1. In an immune-competent C57BL/6 mouse tumor model, USP2a abrogation facilitated infiltration of CD95+CD8+ effector T cells and hindered infiltration of Tim-3+CD8+ and LAG-3+CD8+ exhausted T cells by destabilizing B7-H4. Clinical lung adenocarcinoma samples showed a significant correlation between B7-H4 abundance and USP2a expression, indicating the contribution of the EGFR/USP2a/B7-H4 axis to tumor immunosuppression. In summary, this study elucidates the dual effects of USP2a in tumor growth by stabilizing Cyclin D1, promoting tumor cell proliferation, and stabilizing B7-H4, contributing to tumor immunosuppression. Therefore, USP2a represents a potential target for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwei Lu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Kong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Boshu Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Zhaxin Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaomu Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yin Tong
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liangzhu Wen
- He Cheng Biotechnology Suzhou Co.Ltd, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Moli Huang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fengying Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liang Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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2
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Alhasan BA, Morozov AV, Guzhova IV, Margulis BA. The ubiquitin-proteasome system in the regulation of tumor dormancy and recurrence. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189119. [PMID: 38761982 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189119] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Tumor recurrence is a mechanism triggered in sparse populations of cancer cells that usually remain in a quiescent state after strict stress and/or therapeutic factors, which is affected by a variety of autocrine and microenvironmental cues. Despite thorough investigations, the biology of dormant and/or cancer stem cells is still not fully elucidated, as for the mechanisms of their reawakening, while only the major molecular patterns driving the relapse process have been identified to date. These molecular patterns profoundly interfere with the elements of cellular proteostasis systems that support the efficiency of the recurrence process. As a major proteostasis machinery, we review the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in tumor cell dormancy and reawakening, devoting particular attention to the functions of its components, E3 ligases, deubiquitinating enzymes and proteasomes in cancer recurrence. We demonstrate how UPS components functionally or mechanistically interact with the pivotal proteins implicated in the recurrence program and reveal that modulators of the UPS hold promise to become an efficient adjuvant therapy for eradicating refractory tumor cells to impede tumor relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar A Alhasan
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Alexey V Morozov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov Street 32, 119991 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Irina V Guzhova
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Boris A Margulis
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia.
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3
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Duan CY, Li Y, Zhi HY, Tian Y, Huang ZY, Chen SP, Zhang Y, Liu Q, Zhou L, Jiang XG, Ullah K, Guo Q, Liu ZH, Xu Y, Han JH, Hou J, O'Connor DP, Xu G. E3 ubiquitin ligase UBR5 modulates circadian rhythm by facilitating the ubiquitination and degradation of the key clock transcription factor BMAL1. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01290-z. [PMID: 38740904 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01290-z] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock is the inner rhythm of life activities and is controlled by a self-sustained and endogenous molecular clock, which maintains a ~ 24 h internal oscillation. As the core element of the circadian clock, BMAL1 is susceptible to degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Nevertheless, scant information is available regarding the UPS enzymes that intricately modulate both the stability and transcriptional activity of BMAL1, affecting the cellular circadian rhythm. In this work, we identify and validate UBR5 as a new E3 ubiquitin ligase that interacts with BMAL1 by using affinity purification, mass spectrometry, and biochemical experiments. UBR5 overexpression induced BMAL1 ubiquitination, leading to diminished stability and reduced protein level of BMAL1, thereby attenuating its transcriptional activity. Consistent with this, UBR5 knockdown increases the BMAL1 protein. Domain mapping discloses that the C-terminus of BMAL1 interacts with the N-terminal domains of UBR5. Similarly, cell-line-based experiments discover that HYD, the UBR5 homolog in Drosophila, could interact with and downregulate CYCLE, the BMAL1 homolog in Drosophila. PER2-luciferase bioluminescence real-time reporting assay in a mammalian cell line and behavioral experiments in Drosophila reveal that UBR5 or hyd knockdown significantly reduces the period of the circadian clock. Therefore, our work discovers a new ubiquitin ligase UBR5 that regulates BMAL1 stability and circadian rhythm and elucidates the underlying molecular mechanism. This work provides an additional layer of complexity to the regulatory network of the circadian clock at the post-translational modification level, offering potential insights into the modulation of the dysregulated circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Duan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, D02 YN77, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yue Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Hao-Yu Zhi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yao Tian
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, 2 Sipailou Road, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Zheng-Yun Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Su-Ping Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xiao-Gang Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Kifayat Ullah
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Qing Guo
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cytoneurobiology, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cytoneurobiology, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jun-Hai Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, 2 Sipailou Road, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Jiajie Hou
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Darran P O'Connor
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 123 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, D02 YN77, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Precision Diagnostics and Therapeutics Development, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Prevention and Treatment of Hyperlipidemic Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
- Suzhou International Joint Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Brain Diseases, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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4
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Song X, Xia B, Gao X, Liu X, Lv H, Wang S, Xiao Q, Luo H. Related cellular signaling and consequent pathophysiological outcomes of ubiquitin specific protease 24. Life Sci 2024; 342:122512. [PMID: 38395384 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 24 (USP24) is an essential member of the deubiquitinating protease family found in eukaryotes. It engages in interactions with multiple proteins, including p53, MCL-1, E2F4, and FTH1, among others. Through these interactions, USP24 plays a critical role in regulating vital cellular processes such as cell cycle control, DNA damage response, cellular iron autophagy, and apoptosis. Increased levels of USP24 have been observed in various cancer types, including bladder cancer, lung cancer, myeloma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and gastric cancer. However, in certain tumors like kidney cancer, USP24 is significantly downregulated, and the specific mechanism behind this remains unclear. Currently, there are no officially approved USP24 inhibitors available for clinical use. Some existing inhibitors targeting USP24 have shown promising effects in treating malignancies; however, their precise mode of action and information regarding binding sites are not well understood. Moreover, further optimization is required to enhance the selectivity and efficacy of these inhibitors. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in understanding the cellular functions of USP24, its association with various diseases, and the development of small-molecule inhibitors that target this protein. In conclusion, USP24 represents a promising therapeutic target for various diseases, and ongoing research will contribute to validating its role and facilitating the development of effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyang Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Boyu Xia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Xinrong Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Xinying Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Hongyuan Lv
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Shiwei Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Qinpei Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Hao Luo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
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5
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Zhou Q, Wang R, Su Y, Wang B, Zhang Y, Qin X. The molecular circadian rhythms regulating the cell cycle. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30539. [PMID: 38372014 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30539] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The circadian clock controls the expression of a large proportion of protein-coding genes in mammals and can modulate a wide range of physiological processes. Recent studies have demonstrated that disruption or dysregulation of the circadian clock is involved in the development and progression of several diseases, including cancer. The cell cycle is considered to be the fundamental process related to cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that the circadian clock can control the expression of a large number of genes related to the cell cycle. This article reviews the mechanism of cell cycle-related genes whose chromatin regulatory elements are rhythmically occupied by core circadian clock transcription factors, while their RNAs are rhythmically expressed. This article further reviews the identified oscillatory cell cycle-related genes in higher organisms such as baboons and humans. The potential functions of these identified genes in regulating cell cycle progression are also discussed. Understanding how the molecular clock controls the expression of cell cycle genes will be beneficial for combating and treating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Zhou
- Institute of Health Sciences and Technology, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ruohan Wang
- Institute of Health Sciences and Technology, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yunxia Su
- Institute of Health Sciences and Technology, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Bowen Wang
- Institute of Health Sciences and Technology, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yunfei Zhang
- Modern Experiment Technology Center, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ximing Qin
- Institute of Health Sciences and Technology, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
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6
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Di Gregorio J, Di Giuseppe L, Terreri S, Rossi M, Battafarano G, Pagliarosi O, Flati V, Del Fattore A. Protein Stability Regulation in Osteosarcoma: The Ubiquitin-like Modifications and Glycosylation as Mediators of Tumor Growth and as Targets for Therapy. Cells 2024; 13:537. [PMID: 38534381 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060537] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The identification of new therapeutic targets and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches are the most important challenges for osteosarcoma treatment. In fact, despite being relatively rare, recurrence and metastatic potential, particularly to the lungs, make osteosarcoma a deadly form of cancer. In fact, although current treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy, have improved survival rates, the disease's recurrence and metastasis are still unresolved complications. Insights for analyzing the still unclear molecular mechanisms of osteosarcoma development, and for finding new therapeutic targets, may arise from the study of post-translational protein modifications. Indeed, they can influence and alter protein structure, stability and function, and cellular interactions. Among all the post-translational modifications, ubiquitin-like modifications (ubiquitination, deubiquitination, SUMOylation, and NEDDylation), as well as glycosylation, are the most important for regulating protein stability, which is frequently altered in cancers including osteosarcoma. This review summarizes the relevance of ubiquitin-like modifications and glycosylation in osteosarcoma progression, providing an overview of protein stability regulation, as well as highlighting the molecular mediators of these processes in the context of osteosarcoma and their possible targeting for much-needed novel therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Di Gregorio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Laura Di Giuseppe
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anaesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Terreri
- Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Rossi
- Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Battafarano
- Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Olivia Pagliarosi
- Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Del Fattore
- Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
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7
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Kim SB, Hwang S, Cha JY, Lee HJ. Programmed Death Ligand 1 Regulatory Crosstalk with Ubiquitination and Deubiquitination: Implications in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2939. [PMID: 38474186 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052939] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays a pivotal role in cancer immune evasion and is a critical target for cancer immunotherapy. This review focuses on the regulation of PD-L1 through the dynamic processes of ubiquitination and deubiquitination, which are crucial for its stability and function. Here, we explored the intricate mechanisms involving various E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that modulate PD-L1 expression in cancer cells. Specific ligases are discussed in detail, highlighting their roles in tagging PD-L1 for degradation. Furthermore, we discuss the actions of DUBs that stabilize PD-L1 by removing ubiquitin chains. The interplay of these enzymes not only dictates PD-L1 levels but also influences cancer progression and patient response to immunotherapies. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting these regulatory pathways and propose novel strategies to enhance the efficacy of PD-L1/PD-1-based therapies. Our review underscores the complexity of PD-L1 regulation and its significant impact on the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Bin Kim
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Soonjae Hwang
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Young Cha
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Jae Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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Gao W, Guo N, Yan H, Zhao S, Sun Y, Chen Z. Mycn ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy-induced heart failure in mice by mediating the USP2/JUP/Akt/β-catenin cascade. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:82. [PMID: 38297207 PMCID: PMC10829249 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03748-8] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathological cardiac hypertrophy is associated with cardiac dysfunction and is a key risk factor for heart failure and even sudden death. This study investigates the function of Mycn in cardiac hypertrophy and explores the interacting molecules. METHODS A mouse model of cardiac hypertrophy was induced by isoproterenol (ISO). The cardiac dysfunction was assessed by the heart weight-to-body weight ratio (HW/BW), echocardiography assessment, pathological staining, biomarker detection, and cell apoptosis. Transcriptome alteration in cardiac hypertrophy was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis. Gain- or loss-of-function studies of MYCN proto-oncogene (Mycn), ubiquitin specific peptidase 2 (USP2), and junction plakoglobin (JUP) were performed. The biological functions of Mycn were further examined in ISO-treated cardiomyocytes. The molecular interactions were verified by luciferase assay or immunoprecipitation assays. RESULTS Mycn was poorly expressed in ISO-treated mice, and its upregulation reduced HW/BW, cell surface area, oxidative stress, and inflammation while improving cardiac function of mice. It also reduced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in mice and those in vitro induced by ISO. Mycn bound to the USP2 promoter to activate its transcription. USP2 overexpression exerted similar myocardial protective functions. It stabilized JUP protein by deubiquitination modification, which blocked the Akt/β-catenin pathway. Knockdown of JUP restored phosphorylation of Akt and β-catenin protein level, which negated the protective effects of USP2. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that Mycn activates USP2 transcription, which mediates ubiquitination and protein stabilization of JUP, thus inactivating the Akt/β-catenin axis and alleviating cardiac hypertrophy-induced heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weinian Gao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
| | - Na Guo
- Department of Geriatry II, TCM Hospital of Shijiazhuang city, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
| | - Hongjiang Yan
- Department of Thoracic surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
| | - Shuguang Zhao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
| | - Yongquan Sun
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China
| | - Ziying Chen
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, P.R. China.
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9
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Cheng Q, Chen M, Liu M, Wang F, Chen X, Sun W, Du Y, Wu H. Age-related genes USP2 and ARG2 are involved in the reduction of immune cell infiltration in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3582. [PMID: 37727011 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3582] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are large differences in clinical manifestations and biological markers between elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis (EPRA, age >60) and younger patients with RA (YPRA, age ≤60), partly owing to variations in the immune system of different age groups. Here, we focused on the changes of immune cell infiltration in YPRA and EPRA. METHODS The R packages "ssGSEA" and "GSEA" were used to identify the changes in immune cell infiltration and immune-related pathways between the two groups. The R packages "WGCNA" and "DEseq2" were used to screen and verify age-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Hub genes were identified using Cytoscape and cytoHubba. Spearman correlation coefficient was conducted to evaluate correlations between hub age-related genes and immune cells. RESULTS Compared with 54 established YPRA, several immune cells and immune-related pathways were markedly decreased in 29 EPRA synovial tissues. Moreover, 78 age-related DEGs related to amino acid and glycosphingolipid synthesis and metabolism were identified. USP2 and ARG2 were verified to be upregulated in EPRA, signifying that these two genes could effectively distinguish YPRA and EPRA and have potential as biomarkers. In addition, we found that USP2 was significantly negatively correlated with B cells and monocytes, while there was a significant negative association between ARG2 and T cells. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, this study is the first to systematically analyze changes in immune cell infiltration between YPRA and EPRA patients and obtain hub age-related genes, which may provide the basis for illuminating the pathogenesis of EPRA and informing treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Cheng
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mo Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengdan Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangying Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjia Sun
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Du
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huaxiang Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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10
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Klonisch T, Logue SE, Hombach-Klonisch S, Vriend J. DUBing Primary Tumors of the Central Nervous System: Regulatory Roles of Deubiquitinases. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1503. [PMID: 37892185 PMCID: PMC10605193 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101503] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) utilizes an orchestrated enzymatic cascade of E1, E2, and E3 ligases to add single or multiple ubiquitin-like molecules as post-translational modification (PTM) to proteins. Ubiquitination can alter protein functions and/or mark ubiquitinated proteins for proteasomal degradation but deubiquitinases (DUBs) can reverse protein ubiquitination. While the importance of DUBs as regulatory factors in the UPS is undisputed, many questions remain on DUB selectivity for protein targeting, their mechanism of action, and the impact of DUBs on the regulation of diverse biological processes. Furthermore, little is known about the expression and role of DUBs in tumors of the human central nervous system (CNS). In this comprehensive review, we have used publicly available transcriptional datasets to determine the gene expression profiles of 99 deubiquitinases (DUBs) from five major DUB families in seven primary pediatric and adult CNS tumor entities. Our analysis identified selected DUBs as potential new functional players and biomarkers with prognostic value in specific subtypes of primary CNS tumors. Collectively, our analysis highlights an emerging role for DUBs in regulating CNS tumor cell biology and offers a rationale for future therapeutic targeting of DUBs in CNS tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Klonisch
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
- CancerCare Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Susan E. Logue
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
- CancerCare Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Sabine Hombach-Klonisch
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - Jerry Vriend
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
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11
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Zhang S, Guo Y, Zhang S, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Zuo S. Targeting the deubiquitinase USP2 for malignant tumor therapy (Review). Oncol Rep 2023; 50:176. [PMID: 37594087 PMCID: PMC10463009 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8613] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin‑proteasome system is a major degradation pathway for >80% of proteins in vivo. Deubiquitylases, which remove ubiquitinated tags to stabilize substrate proteins, are important components involved in regulating the degradation of ubiquitinated proteins. In addition, they serve multiple roles in tumor development by participating in physiological processes such as protein metabolism, cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair and gene transcription. The present review systematically summarized the role of ubiquitin‑specific protease 2 (USP2) in malignant tumors and the specific molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of USP2 in tumor‑associated pathways. USP2 reverses ubiquitin‑mediated degradation of proteins and is involved in aberrant proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and drug resistance of tumors. Additionally, the present review summarized studies reporting on the use of USP2 as a therapeutic target for malignancies such as breast, liver, ovarian, colorectal, bladder and prostate cancers and glioblastoma and highlights the current status of pharmacological research on USP2. The clinical significance of USP2 as a therapeutic target for malignant tumors warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilong Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Shenjie Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Shi Zuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
- Precision Medicine Research Institute of Guizhou, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
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12
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Kuang Z, Liu X, Zhang N, Dong J, Sun C, Yin M, Wang Y, Liu L, Xiao D, Zhou X, Feng Y, Song D, Deng H. USP2 promotes tumor immune evasion via deubiquitination and stabilization of PD-L1. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:2249-2264. [PMID: 37670038 PMCID: PMC10589324 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01219-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The abnormal upregulation of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells impedes T-cell mediated cytotoxicity through PD-1 engagement, and further exploring the mechanisms regulation of PD-L1 in cancers may enhance the clinical efficacy of PD-L1 blockade. Here, using single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs) screening system, we identify ubiquitin-specific processing protease 2 (USP2) as a novel regulator of PD-L1 stabilization for tumor immune evasion. USP2 directly interacts with and increases PD-L1 abundance in colorectal and prostate cancer cells. Our results show that Thr288, Arg292 and Asp293 at USP2 control its binding to PD-L1 through deconjugating the K48-linked polyubiquitination at lysine 270 of PD-L1. Depletion of USP2 causes endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation of PD-L1, thus attenuates PD-L1/PD-1 interaction and sensitizes cancer cells to T cell-mediated killing. Meanwhile, USP2 ablation-induced PD-L1 clearance enhances antitumor immunity in mice via increasing CD8+ T cells infiltration and reducing immunosuppressive infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs), whereas PD-L1 overexpression reverses the tumor growth suppression by USP2 silencing. USP2-depletion combination with anti-PD-1 also exhibits a synergistic anti-tumor effect. Furthermore, analysis of clinical tissue samples indicates that USP2 is positively associated with PD-L1 expression in cancer. Collectively, our data reveal a crucial role of USP2 for controlling PD-L1 stabilization in tumor cells, and highlight USP2 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zean Kuang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Xiaojia Liu
- Beijing Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jingwen Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Cuicui Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Mingxiao Yin
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yuting Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Lu Liu
- Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266034, China
| | - Dian Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xinbo Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yanchun Feng
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China.
| | - Danqing Song
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Hongbin Deng
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
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13
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Zhang J, Qiu Z, Zhang Y, Wang G, Hao H. Intracellular spatiotemporal metabolism in connection to target engagement. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 200:115024. [PMID: 37516411 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115024] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
The metabolism in eukaryotic cells is a highly ordered system involving various cellular compartments, which fluctuates based on physiological rhythms. Organelles, as the smallest independent sub-cell unit, are important contributors to cell metabolism and drug metabolism, collectively designated intracellular metabolism. However, disruption of intracellular spatiotemporal metabolism can lead to disease development and progression, as well as drug treatment interference. In this review, we systematically discuss spatiotemporal metabolism in cells and cell subpopulations. In particular, we focused on metabolism compartmentalization and physiological rhythms, including the variation and regulation of metabolic enzymes, metabolic pathways, and metabolites. Additionally, the intricate relationship among intracellular spatiotemporal metabolism, metabolism-related diseases, and drug therapy/toxicity has been discussed. Finally, approaches and strategies for intracellular spatiotemporal metabolism analysis and potential target identification are introduced, along with examples of potential new drug design based on this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhixia Qiu
- Center of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongjie Zhang
- Clinical Pharmacokinetics Laboratory, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Research Unit of PK-PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
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14
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Lee TG, Woo SM, Seo SU, Kim S, Park JW, Chang YC, Kwon TK. Inhibition of USP2 Enhances TRAIL-Mediated Cancer Cell Death through Downregulation of Survivin. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12816. [PMID: 37628997 PMCID: PMC10454696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612816] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) is a deubiquitinase belonging to the USPs subfamily. USP2 has been known to display various biological effects including tumorigenesis and inflammation. Therefore, we aimed to examine the sensitization effect of USP2 in TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. The pharmacological inhibitor (ML364) and siRNA targeting USP2 enhanced TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-induced cancer cell death, but not normal cells. Mechanistically, USP2 interacted with survivin, and ML364 degraded survivin protein expression by increasing the ubiquitination of survivin. Overexpression of survivin or USP2 significantly prevented apoptosis through cotreatment with ML364 and TRAIL, whereas a knockdown of USP2 increased sensitivity to TRAIL. Taken together, our data suggested that ML364 ubiquitylates and degrades survivin, thereby increasing the reactivity to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tak Gyeom Lee
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Seon Min Woo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Seung Un Seo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Shin Kim
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Jong-Wook Park
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
| | - Young-Chae Chang
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea;
| | - Taeg Kyu Kwon
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea; (T.G.L.); (S.M.W.); (S.U.S.); (S.K.); (J.-W.P.)
- Center for Forensic Pharmaceutical Science, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
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15
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Zhang X, Nadolny C, Chen Q, Ali W, Hashmi SF, Deng R. Dysregulation and oncogenic activities of ubiquitin specific peptidase 2a in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2023; 13:2392-2409. [PMID: 37424823 PMCID: PMC10326592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin specific peptidase 2a (USP2a) plays critical roles in protein degradation and other cellular activities. Currently, our understanding on USP2a dysregulation in subjects with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its roles in HCC pathogenesis is limited. In this study, we found that USP2a mRNA and protein levels were significantly upregulated in HCC tumors from both human and mice. USP2a overexpression in HepG2 and Huh 7 cells significantly increased cell proliferation while inhibition of USP2a activity by chemical inhibitor or stable knockout of USP2 by CRISPR markedly reduced cell proliferation. In addition, USP2a overexpression significantly augmented the resistance while knockout of USP2a markedly increased the susceptibility of HepG2 cells to bile acid-induced apoptosis and necrosis. Consistent with the oncogenic activities detected in vitro, overexpression of USP2a promoted de novo HCC development in mice with significantly increased tumor occurrence rates, tumor sizes and liver/body ratios. Further investigations with unbiased co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP)-coupled proteomic analysis and Western blot identified novel USP2a target proteins involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis. Analysis of those USP2a target proteins revealed that USP2a's oncogenic activities are mediated through multiple pathways, including modulating protein folding and assembling through regulating protein chaperones/co-chaperones HSPA1A, DNAJA1 and TCP1, promoting DNA replication and transcription through regulating RUVBL1, PCNA and TARDBP, and altering mitochondrial apoptotic pathway through regulating VDAC2. Indeed, those newly identified USP2a target proteins were markedly dysregulated in HCC tumors. In summary, USP2a was upregulated in HCC subjects and acted as an oncogene in the pathogenesis of HCC through multiple downstream pathways. The findings provided molecular and pathogenesis bases for developing interventions to treat HCC by targeting USP2a or its downstream pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Christina Nadolny
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Qiwen Chen
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Winifer Ali
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Syed F Hashmi
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Ruitang Deng
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
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Suga K, Suto A, Tanaka S, Sugawara Y, Kageyama T, Ishikawa J, Sanayama Y, Ikeda K, Furuta S, Kagami SI, Iwata A, Hirose K, Suzuki K, Ohara O, Nakajima H. TAp63, a methotrexate target in CD4+ T cells, suppresses Foxp3 expression and exacerbates autoimmune arthritis. JCI Insight 2023; 8:164778. [PMID: 37212280 PMCID: PMC10322677 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.164778] [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: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is a standard, first-line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, its precise mechanisms of action other than antifolate activity are largely unknown. We performed DNA microarray analyses of CD4+ T cells in patients with RA before and after MTX treatment and found that TP63 was the most significantly downregulated gene after MTX treatment. TAp63, an isoform of TP63, was highly expressed in human IL-17-producing Th (Th17) cells and was suppressed by MTX in vitro. Murine TAp63 was expressed at high levels in Th cells and at lower levels in thymus-derived Treg cells. Importantly, TAp63 knockdown in murine Th17 cells ameliorated the adoptive transfer arthritis model. RNA-Seq analyses of human Th17 cells overexpressing TAp63 and those with TAp63 knockdown identified FOXP3 as a possible TAp63 target gene. TAp63 knockdown in CD4+ T cells cultured under Th17 conditions with low-dose IL-6 increased Foxp3 expression, suggesting that TAp63 balances Th17 cells and Treg cells. Mechanistically, TAp63 knockdown in murine induced Treg (iTreg) cells promoted hypomethylation of conserved noncoding sequence 2 (CNS2) of the Foxp3 gene and enhanced the suppressive function of iTreg cells. Reporter analyses revealed that TAp63 suppressed the activation of the Foxp3 CNS2 enhancer. Collectively, TAp63 suppresses Foxp3 expression and exacerbates autoimmune arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Suga
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Akira Suto
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
- Institute for Advanced Academic Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shigeru Tanaka
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Yutaka Sugawara
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Takahiro Kageyama
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Junichi Ishikawa
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Yoshie Sanayama
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Kei Ikeda
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Shunsuke Furuta
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Shin-Ichiro Kagami
- Research Center for Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Asahi General Hospital, Asahi, Chiba, Japan
| | - Arifumi Iwata
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Koichi Hirose
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Kotaro Suzuki
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
| | - Osamu Ohara
- Department of Applied Genomics, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nakajima
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, and
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Wei C, Zhao X, Zhang H, Wang L. USP2 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis in choroidal melanoma via stabilizing Snail. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04855-3. [PMID: 37199836 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04855-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choroidal melanoma (CM) is an intraocular tumor that arises from melanocytes. While ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) modulates the progression of numerous diseases, its role in CM is not known. This study aimed to determine the role of USP2 in CM and elucidate its molecular mechanisms. METHODS MTT, Transwell, and wound-scratch assays were used to investigate the function of USP2 in the proliferation and metastasis of CM. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to analyze the expression of USP2, Snail, and factors associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The relationship between USP2 and Snail was explored by co-immunoprecipitation and in vitro ubiquitination assays. A nude mouse model of CM was established for verifying the role of USP2 in vivo. RESULTS USP2 overexpression promoted proliferation and metastasis, and induced the EMT in CM cells in vitro, while specific inhibition of USP2 by ML364 produced the opposite effects. ML364 also suppressed CM tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, USP2 is known to deubiquitinate Snail, stabilizing the latter through the removal of its K48 poly-ubiquitin chains. However, a catalytically inactive form of USP2 (C276A) had no effect on Snail ubiquitination and failed to increase Snail protein expression. The C276A mutant was also unable to promote CM cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as EMT progression. Furthermore, Snail overexpression partly counteracted the effects of ML364 on proliferation and migration, while rescuing the effects of the inhibitor on the EMT. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrated that USP2 modulated CM development through the stabilization of Snail and suggest that USP2 may be a useful target for the development of novel treatments for CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Pathology Tissue Bank, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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18
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Fu D, Luo J, Wu Y, Zhang L, Li L, Chen H, Wen T, Fu Y, Xiong W. Angiotensin II-induced calcium overload affects mitochondrial functions in cardiac hypertrophy by targeting the USP2/MFN2 axis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 571:111938. [PMID: 37100191 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Ubiquitination, a common type of post-translational modification, is known to affect various diseases, including cardiac hypertrophy. Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 2 (USP2) plays a crucial role in regulating cell functions, but its role in cardiac functions remains elusive. The present study aims to investigate the mechanism of USP2 in cardiac hypertrophy. Animal and cell models of cardiac hypertrophy were established using Angiotensin II (Ang II) induction. Our experiments revealed that Ang II induced USP2 downregulation in the in vitro and in vivo models. USP2 overexpression suppressed the degree of cardiac hypertrophy (decreased ANP, BNP, and β-MHC mRNA levels, cell surface area, and ratio of protein/DNA), calcium overload (decreased Ca2+ concentration and t-CaMKⅡ and p-CaMKⅡ, and increased SERCA2), and mitochondrial dysfunction (decreased MDA and ROS and increased MFN1, ATP, MMP, and complex Ⅰ and II) both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, USP2 interacted with MFN2 and improved the protein level of MFN2 through deubiquitination. Rescue experiments confirmed that MFN2 downregulation neutralized the protective role of USP2 overexpression in cardiac hypertrophy. Overall, our findings suggested that USP2 overexpression mediated deubiquitination to upregulate MFN2, thus alleviating calcium overload-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoyao Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yanze Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Liuping Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tong Wen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yongnan Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China; Hypertension Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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19
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Zhu H, Zhang H, Guo J, Zhang C, Zhang Q, Gao F. Up-regulated oxidized USP2a can increase Mdm2-p60-p53 to promote cell apoptosis. Exp Cell Res 2023; 427:113597. [PMID: 37044314 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113597] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Mdm2 promotes the ubiquitination and degradation of p53, while Mdm2-p60 can bind to p53 and reduce the Mdm2-induced p53 ubiquitination to improve its stability. USP2a can deubiquitinate and stabilize Mdm2, whether USP2a can regulate Mdm2-p60 needs to be further confirmed and elucidated. We found that oxidative stress can up-regulate USP2a at the post-transcriptional level and induce USP2a to be oxidized by forming inter-subunit disulfide bonds. The oxidized USP2a is closely related with cell apoptosis. In apoptotic cells, oxidized USP2a has enhanced protein stability and further stabilizes Mdm2-p60 through deubiquitination, and the USP2a-Mdm2-p60-p53 axis plays a role in cell apoptosis. Altogether USP2a is oxygen sensitive, oxidized USP2a exerts apoptotic effects through the Mdm2-p60-p53 axis, which provides an experimental basis for regulating p53 apoptotic signaling by targeting USP2a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Zhu
- Department of Pulmonary Function Test, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Hongliang Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Department of Blood Transfusion of Central China Fuwai Hospital, Central China Fuwai Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450053, China.
| | - Jiahui Guo
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201999, China.
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201999, China.
| | - Quanwu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450007, China.
| | - Fenghou Gao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201999, China; Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, China.
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20
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Yi J, Tavana O, Li H, Wang D, Baer RJ, Gu W. Targeting USP2 regulation of VPRBP-mediated degradation of p53 and PD-L1 for cancer therapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1941. [PMID: 37024504 PMCID: PMC10079682 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37617-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since Mdm2 (Mouse double minute 2) inhibitors show serious toxicity in clinic studies, different approaches to achieve therapeutic reactivation of p53-mediated tumor suppression in cancers need to be explored. Here, we identify the USP2 (ubiquitin specific peptidase 2)-VPRBP (viral protein R binding protein) axis as an important pathway for p53 regulation. Like Mdm2, VPRBP is a potent repressor of p53 but VPRBP stability is controlled by USP2. Interestingly, the USP2-VPRBP axis also regulates PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) expression. Strikingly, the combination of a small-molecule USP2 inhibitor and anti-PD1 monoclonal antibody leads to complete regression of the tumors expressing wild-type p53. In contrast to Mdm2, knockout of Usp2 in mice has no obvious effect in normal tissues. Moreover, no obvious toxicity is observed upon the USP2 inhibitor treatment in vivo as Mdm2-mediated regulation of p53 remains intact. Our study reveals a promising strategy for p53-based therapy by circumventing the toxicity issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Yi
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Omid Tavana
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Huan Li
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Donglai Wang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Richard J Baer
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Wei Gu
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, 1130 Nicholas Ave, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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21
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Kitamura H. Ubiquitin-Specific Proteases (USPs) and Metabolic Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3219. [PMID: 36834633 PMCID: PMC9966627 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination and deubiquitination are reversible processes that modify the characteristics of target proteins, including stability, intracellular localization, and enzymatic activity. Ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs) constitute the largest deubiquitinating enzyme family. To date, accumulating evidence indicates that several USPs positively and negatively affect metabolic diseases. USP22 in pancreatic β-cells, USP2 in adipose tissue macrophages, USP9X, 20, and 33 in myocytes, USP4, 7, 10, and 18 in hepatocytes, and USP2 in hypothalamus improve hyperglycemia, whereas USP19 in adipocytes, USP21 in myocytes, and USP2, 14, and 20 in hepatocytes promote hyperglycemia. In contrast, USP1, 5, 9X, 14, 15, 22, 36, and 48 modulate the progression of diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, and/or retinopathy. USP4, 10, and 18 in hepatocytes ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), while hepatic USP2, 11, 14, 19, and 20 exacerbate it. The roles of USP7 and 22 in hepatic disorders are controversial. USP9X, 14, 17, and 20 in vascular cells are postulated to be determinants of atherosclerosis. Moreover, mutations in the Usp8 and Usp48 loci in pituitary tumors cause Cushing syndrome. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the modulatory roles of USPs in energy metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kitamura
- Laboratory of Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu 069-8501, Japan
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22
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Kim H, Kim D, Choi H, Shin G, Lee JK. Deubiquitinase USP2 stabilizes the MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 complex at DNA double-strand break sites by counteracting the ubiquitination of NBS1. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102752. [PMID: 36436562 PMCID: PMC9758435 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex plays essential roles in the cellular response to DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which are the most cytotoxic DNA lesions, and is a target of various modifications and controls. Recently, lysine 48-linked ubiquitination of NBS1, resulting in premature disassembly of the MRN complex from DSB sites, was observed in cells lacking RECQL4 helicase activity. However, the role and control of this ubiquitination during the DSB response in cells with intact RECQL4 remain unknown. Here, we showed that USP2 counteracts this ubiquitination and stabilizes the MRN complex during the DSB response. By screening deubiquitinases that increase the stability of the MRN complex in RECQL4-deficient cells, USP2 was identified as a new deubiquitinase that acts at DSB sites to counteract NBS1 ubiquitination. We determined that USP2 is recruited to DSB sites in a manner dependent on ATM, a major checkpoint kinase against DSBs, and stably interacts with NBS1 and RECQL4 in immunoprecipitation experiments. Phosphorylation of two critical residues in the N terminus of USP2 by ATM is required for its recruitment to DSBs and its interaction with RECQL4. While inactivation of USP2 alone does not substantially influence the DSB response, we found that inactivation of USP2 and USP28, another deubiquitinase influencing NBS1 ubiquitination, results in premature disassembly of the MRN complex from DSB sites as well as defects in ATM activation and homologous recombination repair abilities. These results suggest that deubiquitinases counteracting NBS1 ubiquitination are essential for the stable maintenance of the MRN complex and proper cellular response to DSBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunsup Kim
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dongmin Kim
- Department of Biology Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyemin Choi
- Department of Biology Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gwangsu Shin
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon-Kyu Lee
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetic Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea; Department of Biology Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
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23
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Liu D, Chen YY, Li QQ, Xu M, Liao JT, Wang B. Integrative bioinformatics analysis to identify the effects of circadian rhythm on Crohn’s disease. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:961481. [PMID: 36172047 PMCID: PMC9511471 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.961481] [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: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a multifactorial inflammatory bowel disease characterized by complex aberrant autoimmune disorders. Currently, the involvement of the circadian rhythm in the pathogenesis of CD is unknown.Methods: Bulk and single-cell RNA-seq data and associated clinical data from patients with CD were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis was performed to calculate the enrichment score (ES) of circadian rhythm-related genes. Differential expression analysis was used to identify differentially expressed genes. Functional enrichment analysis was used to explore potential disease mechanisms. CIBERSORT was used to estimate immune cell abundance. Single-cell RNA-seq data were analyzed using the R package “Seurat.”Results: The ES of circadian rhythm-related genes was lower in the CD tissue than in the normal tissue. Ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2), a circadian rhythm-related gene, was identified as a potential modulator of CD pathogenesis. USP2 expression was reduced in CD and was associated with disease severity. Moreover, the analysis of bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA-seq data showed that monocyte and neutrophil abundance was elevated in CD and was negatively correlated with USP2 expression. It should be noted that USP2 expression in acinar cells was negatively correlated with monocyte and neutrophil abundance. Functional enrichment analysis revealed several canonical pathways to be enriched in CD, including the interleukin-17 signaling pathway, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and nod-like receptor signaling pathway.Conclusion: Aberrant expression of circadian rhythm-related genes is correlated with CD pathogenesis. USP2 might be related to crosstalk among the different cell types in CD. These findings provide insights into future chronotherapy for CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Yin-Yun Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Qing-qing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang-Tao Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Ben Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratary of Aging Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Ben Wang,
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24
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An R, Wang P, Guo H, Liuyu T, Zhong B, Zhang ZD. USP2 promotes experimental colitis and bacterial infections by inhibiting the proliferation of myeloid cells and remodeling the extracellular matrix network. CELL INSIGHT 2022; 1:100047. [PMID: 37192862 PMCID: PMC10120320 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely associated with dysregulation of genetic factors and microbial environment. Here, we report a susceptible role of ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) in experimental colitis and bacterial infections. USP2 is upregulated in the inflamed mucosa of IBD patients and in the colon of mice treated with dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS). Knockout or pharmacologic inhibition of USP2 promotes the proliferation of myeloid cells to activate IL-22 and IFNγ production of T cells. In addition, knockout of USP2 in myeloid cells inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines to relieve the dysregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) network and promote the gut epithelial integrity after DSS treatment. Consistently, Lyz2-Cre;Usp2fl/fl mice exhibit hyper-resistance to DSS-induced colitis and Citrobacter rodentium infections compared to Usp2fl/fl mice. These findings highlight an indispensable role of USP2 in myeloid cells to modulate T cell activation and epithelial ECM network and repair, indicating USP2 as a potential target for therapeutic intervention of IBD and bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran An
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, College of Life Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Wuhan Research Center for Infectious Diseases and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, College of Life Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, College of Life Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Tianzi Liuyu
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Bo Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, College of Life Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Wuhan Research Center for Infectious Diseases and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhi-Dong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, College of Life Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Wuhan Research Center for Infectious Diseases and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
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25
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Hashimoto M, Fujimoto M, Konno K, Lee ML, Yamada Y, Yamashita K, Toda C, Tomura M, Watanabe M, Inanami O, Kitamura H. Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 2 in the Ventromedial Hypothalamus Modifies Blood Glucose Levels by Controlling Sympathetic Nervous Activation. J Neurosci 2022; 42:4607-4618. [PMID: 35504726 PMCID: PMC9186793 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2504-21.2022] [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: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) participates in glucose metabolism in peripheral tissues such as the liver and skeletal muscles. However, the glucoregulatory role of USP2 in the CNS is not well known. In this study, we focus on USP2 in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), which has dominant control over systemic glucose homeostasis. ISH, using a Usp2-specific probe, showed that Usp2 mRNA is present in VMH neurons, as well as other glucoregulatory nuclei, in the hypothalamus of male mice. Administration of a USP2-selective inhibitor ML364 (20 ng/head), into the VMH elicited a rapid increase in the circulating glucose level in male mice, suggesting USP2 has a suppressive role on glucose mobilization. ML364 treatment also increased serum norepinephrine concentration, whereas it negligibly affected serum levels of insulin and corticosterone. ML364 perturbated mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in neural SH-SY5Y cells and subsequently promoted the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Consistent with these findings, hypothalamic ML364 treatment stimulated AMPKα phosphorylation in the VMH. Inhibition of hypothalamic AMPK prevented ML364 from increasing serum norepinephrine and blood glucose. Removal of ROS restored the ML364-evoked mitochondrial dysfunction in SH-SY5Y cells and impeded the ML364-induced hypothalamic AMPKα phosphorylation as well as prevented the elevation of serum norepinephrine and blood glucose levels in male mice. These results indicate hypothalamic USP2 attenuates perturbations in blood glucose levels by modifying the ROS-AMPK-sympathetic nerve axis.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Under normal conditions (excluding hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia), blood glucose levels are maintained at a constant level. In this study, we used a mouse model to identify a hypothalamic protease controlling blood glucose levels. Pharmacological inhibition of USP2 in the VMH caused a deviation in blood glucose levels under a nonstressed condition, indicating that USP2 determines the set point of the blood glucose level. Modification of sympathetic nervous activity accounts for the USP2-mediated glucoregulation. Mechanistically, USP2 mitigates the accumulation of ROS in the VMH, resulting in attenuation of the phosphorylation of AMPK. Based on these findings, we uncovered a novel glucoregulatory axis consisting of hypothalamic USP2, ROS, AMPK, and the sympathetic nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuko Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu 0698501, Japan
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Tondabayashi 5848450, Japan
| | | | - Kohtarou Konno
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 0600808, Japan
| | - Ming-Liang Lee
- Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 0600808, Japan
| | - Yui Yamada
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu 0698501, Japan
| | | | - Chitoku Toda
- Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 0600808, Japan
| | - Michio Tomura
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Tondabayashi 5848450, Japan
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 0600808, Japan
| | | | - Hiroshi Kitamura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu 0698501, Japan
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26
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Protein interaction networks of the mammalian core clock proteins. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 131:207-233. [PMID: 35871891 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Circadian rhythm is a 24-h cycle that regulates the biochemical and behavioral changes of organisms. It controls a wide range of functions, from gene expression to behavior, allowing organisms to anticipate daily changes in their environment. In mammals, circadian rhythm is generated by a complex transcriptional and translational feedback loop mechanism. The binding of CLOCK/BMAL1 heterodimer to the E-box of DNA located within the promoter region initiates transcription of clock control genes including the transcription of the other two core clock genes of Periods (Pers) and Cryptochromes (Crys). Then PERs and CRYs along with casein kinase 1ɛ/Δ translocate into the nucleus where they suppress CLOCK/BMAL1 transactivation and, in turn, clock-regulated gene expression. Various clock components must be operational to aid in their stabilization and period extension in circadian rhythm. In this review, we have highlighted the recent progress for the core clock interacting proteins to maintain and to stabilize circadian rhythm in mammals.
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27
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Zhu M, Wang H, Ding Y, Yang Y, Xu Z, Shi L, Zhang N. Ribonucleotide reductase holoenzyme inhibitor COH29 interacts with deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific protease 2 and downregulates its substrate protein cyclin D1. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22329. [PMID: 35476303 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101914rr] [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: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
USP2 contributes to the quality control of multiple oncogenic proteins including cyclin D1, Mdm2, Aurora-A, etc., and it is a potential target for anti-cancer drug development. However, currently only a few inhibitors with moderate inhibition activities against USP2 have been discovered. USP2-targeted active compounds with either new scaffolds or enhanced activities are in need. Here in this study, Ub-AMC hydrolysis assay-based screening against ~4000 commercially available drugs and drug candidates was performed to identify USP2-targeted inhibitors. COH29, which was originally developed as an anti-cancer agent by blocking the function of human ribonucleotide reductase (RNR, IC50 = 16 µM), was found to exhibit an inhibition activity against USP2 with the IC50 value at 2.02 ± 0.16 µM. The following conducted biophysical and biochemical experiments demonstrated that COH29 could specifically interact with USP2 and inhibit its enzymatic activity in a noncompetitive inhibition mode (Ki = 1.73 ± 0.14 µM). Since COH29 shows similar inhibitory potencies against RNR (RRM2) and USP2, USP2 inhibition-dependent cellular consequences of COH29 are expected. The results of cellular assays confirmed that the application of COH29 could downregulate the level of cyclin D1 by enhancing its degradation via ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), and the modulation effect of COH29 on cyclin D1 is independent of RRM2. Since cyclin D1 acts as an oncogenic driver in human cancer, our findings suggest that USP2 might be a promising therapeutic target for cyclin D1-addicted cancers, and COH29 could serve as a starting compound for high selectivity inhibitor development against USP2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Zhu
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiluan Ding
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuo Xu
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Shi
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Naixia Zhang
- Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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28
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High Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 2a Expression Level Predicts Poor Prognosis in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2022; 30:304-310. [PMID: 35384881 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation has been reported to be involved in regulating the activity of oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Dysfunction or dysregulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system may induce tumorigenesis. Deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific protease 2a (USP2a) has been reported to regulate cell growth or death and is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancers. However, the role of USP2a in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) has not been investigated yet. The goal of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of USP2a expression in UTUC. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 110 UTUC cases were included in this study. USP2a expression level was evaluated through immunohistochemistry staining, and the correlation of USP2a expression level with both clinical and pathologic variables was analyzed. RESULTS High USP2a expression level was observed in 48 (43.6%) cancer specimens. USP2a expression level was significantly correlated with tumor stage (P=0.001), grade (P=0.033), and tumor recurrence (P=0.008). High USP2a expression level was correlated with poor disease-free survival (P=0.005) and cancer-specific survival (P<0.001). In addition, high USP2a expression level was an independent predictor of poor disease-free survival (hazard ratio=2.31; P=0.007) and cancer-specific survival (hazard ratio=5.49; P=0.009). CONCLUSIONS This study indicated that USP2a protein expression level may be a potential biomarker for predicting UTUC patient survival. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate the role of USP2a in UTUC progression.
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29
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Egstrand S, Mace ML, Morevati M, Nordholm A, Engelholm LH, Thomsen JS, Brüel A, Naveh-Many T, Guo Y, Olgaard K, Lewin E. Hypomorphic expression of parathyroid Bmal1 disrupts the internal parathyroid circadian clock and increases parathyroid cell proliferation in response to uremia. Kidney Int 2022; 101:1232-1250. [PMID: 35276205 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2022.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The molecular circadian clock is an evolutionary adaptation to anticipate recurring changes in the environment and to coordinate variations in activity, metabolism and hormone secretion. Parathyroid hyperplasia in uremia is a significant clinical challenge. Here, we examined changes in the transcriptome of the murine parathyroid gland over 24 hours and found a rhythmic expression of parathyroid signature genes, such as Casr, Vdr, Fgfr1 and Gcm2. Overall, 1455 genes corresponding to 6.9% of all expressed genes had significant circadian rhythmicity. Biological pathway analysis indicated that the circadian clock system is essential for the regulation of parathyroid cell function. To study this, a novel mouse strain with parathyroid gland-specific knockdown of the core clock gene Bmal1 (PTHcre;Bmal1flox/flox) was created. Dampening of the parathyroid circadian clock rhythmicity was found in these knockdown mice, resulting in abrogated rhythmicity of regulators of parathyroid cell proliferation such as Sp1, Mafb, Gcm2 and Gata3, indicating circadian clock regulation of these genes. Furthermore, the knockdown resulted in downregulation of genes involved in mitochondrial function and synthesis of ATP. When superimposed by uremia, these PTHcre;Bmal1flox/flox mice had an increased parathyroid cell proliferative response, compared to wild type mice. Thus, our findings indicate a role of the internal parathyroid circadian clock in the development of parathyroid gland hyperplasia in uremia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Søren Egstrand
- Nephrological Department B, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Lerche Mace
- Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marya Morevati
- Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Nordholm
- Nephrological Department B, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Henning Engelholm
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Finsen Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Annemarie Brüel
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tally Naveh-Many
- Minerva Center for Calcium and Bone Metabolism, Nephrology Services, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yuliu Guo
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Centre of Diagnostics, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Klaus Olgaard
- Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ewa Lewin
- Nephrological Department B, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Nephrological Department P, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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30
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Choi HS, Baek KH. Pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic regulation mediated by deubiquitinating enzymes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:117. [PMID: 35118522 PMCID: PMC11071826 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04132-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Although damaged cells can be repaired, cells that are considered unlikely to be repaired are eliminated through apoptosis, a type of predicted cell death found in multicellular organisms. Apoptosis is a structured cell death involving alterations to the cell morphology and internal biochemical changes. This process involves the expansion and cracking of cells, changes in cell membranes, nuclear fragmentation, chromatin condensation, and chromosome cleavage, culminating in the damaged cells being eaten and processed by other cells. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is a major cellular pathway that regulates the protein levels through proteasomal degradation. This review proposes that apoptotic proteins are regulated through the UPS and describes a unique direction for cancer treatment by controlling proteasomal degradation of apoptotic proteins, and small molecules targeted to enzymes associated with UPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Seul Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-Ro, Bundang-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyun Baek
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-Ro, Bundang-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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31
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He J, Zhong Y, Sun Y, Xie C, Yu T. Construction of an immune-related prognostic model by exploring the tumor microenvironment of clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Anal Biochem 2022; 643:114567. [PMID: 35122734 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, bioinformatics methods were performed to screen the candidate prognosis-related genes of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) by analyzing the tumor microenvironment (TME). METHODS Gene expression and clinical data of ccRCC patients were accessed from TCGA, and R package ESTIMATE was applied to calculate immune, stromal, and ESTIMATE scores of the patients. Survival analysis was conducted per median of these three scores. Based on the scoring results, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened. Regression algorithms were utilized to screen prognostic genes and establish a risk model. Finally, pathway activity differences were analyzed through GSEA. RESULTS Patients with the unfavorable prognosis had high immune scores. 619 DEGs (499 up-regulated and 120 down-regulated) were screened based on the differences in gene expression of the patients with high and low immune scores. These genes mainly participated in immune-related signaling pathways. A prognostic risk model for ccRCC patients was constructed and 7 immune-related signature genes (RORB, TNFSF14, UCN2, USP2, TOX3, KLRC2, SLAMF9) were obtained through regression analysis. The constructed prognostic risk model could be used for determining prognoses of patients with ccRCC. CONCLUSION We unraveled the association between TME and prognosis of ccRCC patients and established a prognostic risk model based on the differentially expressed genes. These results contributed to understanding of TME that affected patients' prognosis and progression of ccRCC and conduced to finding potential biomarkers of ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia He
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314000, China
| | - Yun Zhong
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314000, China
| | - Yanli Sun
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314000, China
| | - Chao Xie
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314000, China
| | - Tianqiang Yu
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314000, China.
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Nadolny C, Zhang X, Chen Q, Hashmi SF, Ali W, Hemme C, Ahsan N, Chen Y, Deng R. Dysregulation and activities of ubiquitin specific peptidase 2b in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4746-4767. [PMID: 34765291 PMCID: PMC8569343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin specific peptidase-2 (USP2) plays important roles in a myriad of cellular activities through deubiquitinating target proteins and its implications in various diseases, especially cancers, are starting to emerge. Our current understanding on USP2 expression in subjects with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its roles in the pathogenesis of HCC is limited. In this study, we found that USP2 protein and mRNA levels were significantly dysregulated in HCC tumor (HCC-T) when compared to adjacent non-tumor (HCC-NT) or normal liver tissues from both human and mouse HCC model. Among the USP2 isoforms, USP2b was the predominant isoform in the normal liver and markedly down-regulated in HCC-T tissues in both human and mice. Data from overexpression, chemical inhibition and knockout studies consistently demonstrated that USP2b promoted cell proliferation, colony formation and wound healing in HepG2 and Huh 7 cells. On the other hand, USP2b exhibited proapoptotic and pronecrtotic activities through enhancing bile acid-induced apoptosis and necrosis in both HepG2 and Huh 7 cells. Unbiased proteomic analysis of USP2-knockout (KO) and parental HepG2 cells resulted in identification of USP2-regulated downstream target proteins involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis, including serine/threonine kinase 4 (STK4), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) and fatty acid binding protein 1 (FABP1). In conclusion, USP2b expression was dysregulated in subjects with HCC and contributed to the pathogenesis of HCC by promoting cell proliferation and exerting proapoptotic and pronecrotic activities. The findings provide the molecular basis for developing therapies for HCC through modulating USP2b expression or activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Nadolny
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Xinmu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Qiwen Chen
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Syed F Hashmi
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Winifer Ali
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Christopher Hemme
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Nagib Ahsan
- COBRE Center for Cancer Research Development, Proteomics Core Facility, Rhode Island HospitalProvidence, RI 02903, USA
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown UniversityProvidence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma101 Stephenson Parkway, Norman, OK 73019, USA
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Ruitang Deng
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
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Lee K, Yu H, Shouse S, Kong B, Lee J, Lee SH, Ko KS. RNA-Seq Reveals Different Gene Expression in Liver-Specific Prohibitin 1 Knock-Out Mice. Front Physiol 2021; 12:717911. [PMID: 34539442 PMCID: PMC8446661 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.717911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Prohibitin 1 (PHB1) is an evolutionarily conserved and ubiquitously expressed protein that stabilizes mitochondrial chaperone. Our previous studies showed that liver-specific Phb1 deficiency induced liver injuries and aggravated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced innate immune responses. In this study, we performed RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis with liver tissues to investigate global gene expression among liver-specific Phb1−/−, Phb1+/−, and WT mice, focusing on the differentially expressed (DE) genes between Phb1+/− and WT. When 78 DE genes were analyzed for biological functions, using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) tool, lipid metabolism-related genes, including insulin receptor (Insr), sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 (Srebf1), Srebf2, and SREBP cleavage-activating protein (Scap) appeared to be downregulated in liver-specific Phb1+/− compared with WT. Diseases and biofunctions analyses conducted by IPA verified that hepatic system diseases, including liver fibrosis, liver hyperplasia/hyperproliferation, and liver necrosis/cell death, which may be caused by hepatotoxicity, were highly associated with liver-specific Phb1 deficiency in mice. Interestingly, of liver disease-related 5 DE genes between Phb1+/− and WT, the mRNA expressions of forkhead box M1 (Foxm1) and TIMP inhibitor of metalloproteinase (Timp1) were matched with validation for RNA-seq in liver tissues and AML12 cells transfected with Phb1 siRNA. The results in this study provide additional insights into molecular mechanisms responsible for increasing susceptibility of liver injuries associated with hepatic Phb1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyuwon Lee
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, College of Science and Industry Convergence, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyeonju Yu
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, College of Science and Industry Convergence, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Stephanie Shouse
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Byungwhi Kong
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Jihye Lee
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Seong-Ho Lee
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Kwang Suk Ko
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, College of Science and Industry Convergence, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea.,Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Beverly Hills, CA, United States
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34
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Li G, Yang T, Chen Y, Bao J, Wu D, Hu X, Feng C, Xu L, Li M, Li G, Jin M, Xu Y, Zhang R, Qian G, Pan J. USP5 Sustains the Proliferation of Glioblastoma Through Stabilization of CyclinD1. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:720307. [PMID: 34483932 PMCID: PMC8415357 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.720307] [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: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most malignant primary tumors in humans. Despite standard therapeutic strategy with tumor resection combined with radiochemotherapy, the prognosis remains disappointed. Recently, deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) has been reported as potential cancer therapy targets due to their multifunctions involved in the regulation of tumorigenesis, cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy. In this study, we found that knockdown of ubiquitin specific protease (USP5), a family member of DUB, could significantly suppress GBM cell line U251 and DBTRG-05MG proliferation and colony formation by inducing cell cycle G1/S arrest, which was correlated with downregulation of CyclinD1 protein level. CyclinD1 had been reported to play a critical role in the tumorigenesis and development of GBM via regulating cell cycle transition. Overexpression of USP5 could significantly extend the half-life of CyclinD1, while knockdown of USP5 decreased the protein level of CyclinD1, which could be restored by proteasome inhibitor MG-132. Indeed, USP5 was found to directly interact with CyclinD1, and decrease its K48-linked polyubiquitination level. Furthermore, knockdown of USP5 in U251 cells remarkably inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that USP5 plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and progression of GBM by stabilizing CyclinD1 protein. Targeting USP5 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tianquan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanling Chen
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianping Bao
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Di Wu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaohan Hu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chenxi Feng
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lixiao Xu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mei Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Gang Li
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Meifang Jin
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yunyun Xu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Clinical Pediatrics School, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Guanghui Qian
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Pan
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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