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D'Souza J, Hickson ID. Replication fork barriers to study site-specific DNA replication perturbation. DNA Repair (Amst) 2024; 141:103735. [PMID: 39079395 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2024.103735] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
DNA replication ensures the complete and accurate duplication of the genome. The traditional approach to analysing perturbation of DNA replication is to use chemical inhibitors, such as hydroxyurea or aphidicolin, that slow or stall replication fork progression throughout the genome. An alternative approach is to perturb replication at a single site in the genome that permits a more forensic investigation of the cellular response to the stalling or disruption of a replication fork. This has been achieved in several organisms using different systems that share the common feature of utilizing the high affinity binding of a protein to a defined DNA sequence that is integrated into a specific locus in the host genome. Protein-mediated replication fork blocking systems of this sort have proven very valuable in defining how cells cope with encountering a barrier to fork progression. In this review, we compare protein-based replication fork barrier systems from different organisms that have been developed to generate site-specific replication fork perturbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenevieve D'Souza
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N 2200, Denmark
| | - Ian D Hickson
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N 2200, Denmark.
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2
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Ramirez-Otero MA, Costanzo V. "Bridging the DNA divide": Understanding the interplay between replication- gaps and homologous recombination proteins RAD51 and BRCA1/2. DNA Repair (Amst) 2024; 141:103738. [PMID: 39084178 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2024.103738] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
A key but often neglected component of genomic instability is the emergence of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) gaps during DNA replication in the absence of functional homologous recombination (HR) proteins, such as RAD51 and BRCA1/2. Research in prokaryotes has shed light on the dual role of RAD51's bacterial ortholog, RecA, in HR and the protection of replication forks, emphasizing its essential role in preventing the formation of ssDNA gaps, which is vital for cellular viability. This phenomenon was corroborated in eukaryotic cells deficient in HR, where the formation of ssDNA gaps within newly synthesized DNA and their subsequent processing by the MRE11 nuclease were observed. Without functional HR proteins, cells employ alternative ssDNA gap-filling mechanisms to ensure survival, though this compensatory response can compromise genomic stability. A notable example is the involvement of the translesion synthesis (TLS) polymerase POLζ, along with the repair protein POLθ, in the suppression of replicative ssDNA gaps. Persistent ssDNA gaps may result in replication fork collapse, chromosomal anomalies, and cell death, which contribute to cancer progression and resistance to therapy. Elucidating the processes that avert ssDNA gaps and safeguard replication forks is critical for enhancing cancer treatment approaches by exploiting the vulnerabilities of cancer cells in these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincenzo Costanzo
- IFOM ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Italy; Department of Oncology and Hematology-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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3
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Ma M, Zhu Y, Xiao C, Li R, Cao X, Kang R, Wang X, Li E. Novel insights into RB1 in prostate cancer lineage plasticity and drug resistance. TUMORI JOURNAL 2024; 110:252-263. [PMID: 38316605 DOI: 10.1177/03008916231225576] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most common malignancy among men in the world, posing a serious threat to men's health and lives. RB1 is the first human tumor suppressor gene to be described, and it is closely associated with the development, progression, and suppression of a variety of tumors. It was found that the loss of RB1 is an early event in prostate cancer development and is closely related to prostate cancer development, progression and treatment resistance. This paper reviews the current status of research on the relationship between RB1 and prostate cancer from three aspects: RB1 and prostate cell lineage plasticity; biological behavior; and therapeutic resistance. Providing a novel perspective for developing new therapeutic strategies for RB1-loss prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ma
- Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Basic Medical, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yazhi Zhu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Basic Medical, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Changkai Xiao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ruidong Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xingyu Cao
- Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Basic Medical, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Ran Kang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaolan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ermao Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Basic Medical, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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4
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Zaragoza JZ, Klap K, Heidstra R, Zhou W, Scheres B. The dual role of the RETINOBLASTOMA-RELATED protein in the DNA damage response is coordinated by the interaction with LXCXE-containing proteins. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 118:1194-1206. [PMID: 38321589 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Living organisms possess mechanisms to safeguard genome integrity. To avoid spreading mutations, DNA lesions are detected and cell division is temporarily arrested to allow repair mechanisms. Afterward, cells either resume division or respond to unsuccessful repair by undergoing programmed cell death (PCD). How the success rate of DNA repair connects to later cell fate decisions remains incompletely known, particularly in plants. The Arabidopsis thaliana RETINOBLASTOMA-RELATED1 (RBR) protein and its partner E2FA, play both structural and transcriptional functions in the DNA damage response (DDR). Here we provide evidence that distinct RBR protein interactions with LXCXE motif-containing proteins guide these processes. Using the N849F substitution in the RBR B-pocket domain, which specifically disrupts binding to the LXCXE motif, we show that these interactions are dispensable in unchallenging conditions. However, N849F substitution abolishes RBR nuclear foci and promotes PCD and growth arrest upon genotoxic stress. NAC044, which promotes growth arrest and PCD, accumulates after the initial recruitment of RBR to foci and can bind non-focalized RBR through the LXCXE motif in a phosphorylation-independent manner, allowing interaction at different cell cycle phases. Disrupting NAC044-RBR interaction impairs PCD, but their genetic interaction points to opposite independent roles in the regulation of PCD. The LXCXE-binding dependency of the roles of RBR in the DDR suggests a coordinating mechanism to translate DNA repair success to cell survival. We propose that RBR and NAC044 act in two distinct DDR pathways, but interact to integrate input from both DDR pathways to decide upon an irreversible cell fate decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Zamora Zaragoza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biotechnology, Rijk Zwaan Breeding B.V., Eerste Kruisweg 9, 4793 RS, Fijnaart, The Netherlands
| | - Katinka Klap
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renze Heidstra
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wenkun Zhou
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ben Scheres
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biotechnology, Rijk Zwaan Breeding B.V., Eerste Kruisweg 9, 4793 RS, Fijnaart, The Netherlands
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5
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Elsibaei SM, Amleh A, Ismail MA, El-Sayed WM. Azafuramidines as potential anticancer Agents: Pro-apoptotic profile and cell cycle arrest. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 97:129550. [PMID: 37952598 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129550] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The current study aimed to test the antiproliferative activity of three azafuramidines (X, Y, and Z) against three different human cell lines; liver HepG2, breast MCF-7, and bone U2OS. And to explore the molecular mechanism(s) of the antiproliferative activity of these derivatives. The three new azafuramidines demonstrated a potent cytotoxicity at < 2 μM against the three cell lines investigated. The azafuramidines were highly selective with selectivity index ∼ 47 - 61 folds indicating safety to the normal cells. In the scratch assay, azafuramidines significantly reduced the percentage of wound healing indicating ability to prevent or reduce metastasis. Derivatives X and Z arrested the HepG2 cells at S and G2/M phases detected by the flow cytometry. Derivatives X, Y, and Z elevated the apoptosis of HepG2 cells by ∼ 71 %, 66 %, and 59 %, respectively. Derivatives X and Z were superior to derivative Y. The potent antiproliferative, cell cycle arrest, and pro-apoptotic efficacy of these chlorophenyl derivatives could be attributed to their ability of inducing the overexpression of p53, p21, and p27. These derivatives had the potential to act as anticancer agents and merit further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh M Elsibaei
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Asma Amleh
- Department of Biology, School of Science and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Ismail
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Wael M El-Sayed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt.
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6
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ASPM promotes ATR-CHK1 activation and stabilizes stalled replication forks in response to replication stress. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203783119. [PMID: 36161901 PMCID: PMC9546549 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203783119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
ASPM (encoded by MCPH5) is a frequently mutated protein, and such mutations occur in >40% of cases of primary microcephaly (MCPH). Here, we characterize a function of ASPM in DNA replication and the replication stress response. ASPM serves as a scaffold to load stimulators required for ATR-CHK1 checkpoint signaling upon replication stress, which protects stalled replication forks from degradation. ASPM deficiency leads to genomic instability and the sensitization of cancer cells to replication stressors. ASPM is a protein encoded by primary microcephaly 5 (MCPH5) and is responsible for ensuring spindle position during mitosis and the symmetrical division of neural stem cells. We recently reported that ASPM promotes homologous recombination (HR) repair of DNA double strand breaks. However, its potential role in DNA replication and replication stress response remains elusive. Interestingly, we found that ASPM is dispensable for DNA replication under unperturbed conditions. However, ASPM is enriched at stalled replication forks in a RAD17-dependent manner in response to replication stress and promotes RAD9 and TopBP1 loading onto chromatin, facilitating ATR-CHK1 activation. ASPM depletion results in failed fork restart and nuclease MRE11-mediated nascent DNA degradation at the stalled replication fork. The overall consequence is chromosome instability and the sensitization of cancer cells to replication stressors. These data support a role for ASPM in loading RAD17-RAD9/TopBP1 onto chromatin to activate the ATR-CHK1 checkpoint and ultimately ensure genome stability.
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Kaczynski TJ, Au ED, Farkas MH. Oxidative stress alters transcript localization of disease-associated genes in the retinal pigment epithelium. Mol Vis 2022; 28:340-351. [PMID: 36338668 PMCID: PMC9603899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Nuclear retention is a mechanism whereby excess RNA transcripts are stored in the event that a cell needs to quickly respond to a stimulus; maintaining proper nuclear-to-cytoplasmic balance is important for cellular homeostasis and cell function. There are many mechanisms that are employed to determine whether to retain a transcript or export it to the cytoplasm, although the extent to which tissue or cell type, internal and external stressors, and disease pathogenesis affect this process is not yet clear. As the most biochemically active tissue in the body, the retina must mitigate endogenous and exogenous stressors to maintain cell health and tissue function. Oxidative stress, believed to contribute to the pathogenesis or progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs), is produced both internally from biochemical processes as well as externally from environmental insult. Here, we evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on transcript localization in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), with specific focus on transcripts related to RPE function and disease. METHODS We performed poly(A) RNA sequencing on nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions from human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (iPSC-RPE) cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>), as well as on untreated controls. RESULTS Under normal conditions, the number of mRNA transcripts retained in the nucleus exceeded that found in studies on other tissues. Further, the nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio of transcripts was altered following oxidative stress, as was the retention of genes associated with AMD and IRDs, as well as those that are important for RPE physiology. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a localization catalog of all expressed mRNA in iPSC-RPE under normal conditions and after exposure to H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>, shedding light on the extent to which H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> alters transcript localization and potentially offering insight into one mechanism through which oxidative stress may contribute to the progression of visual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeusz J. Kaczynski
- Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY,Research Service, VA Medical Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Elizabeth D. Au
- Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Michael H. Farkas
- Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY,Research Service, VA Medical Center, Buffalo, NY,Department of Biochemistry, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
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8
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Safeguarding DNA Replication: A Golden Touch of MiDAS and Other Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911331. [PMID: 36232633 PMCID: PMC9570362 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911331] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA replication is a tightly regulated fundamental process allowing the correct duplication and transfer of the genetic information from the parental cell to the progeny. It involves the coordinated assembly of several proteins and protein complexes resulting in replication fork licensing, firing and progression. However, the DNA replication pathway is strewn with hurdles that affect replication fork progression during S phase. As a result, cells have adapted several mechanisms ensuring replication completion before entry into mitosis and segregating chromosomes with minimal, if any, abnormalities. In this review, we describe the possible obstacles that a replication fork might encounter and how the cell manages to protect DNA replication from S to the next G1.
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9
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Li W, Huang T, Xu S, Che B, Yu Y, Zhang W, Tang K. Molecular Mechanism of Tanshinone against Prostate Cancer. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175594. [PMID: 36080361 PMCID: PMC9457553 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignant tumor of the male urinary system in Europe and America. According to the data in the World Cancer Report 2020, the incidence rate of PCa ranks second in the prevalence of male malignant tumors and varies worldwide between regions and population groups. Although early PCa can achieve good therapeutic results after surgical treatment, due to advanced PCa, it can adapt and tolerate androgen castration-related drugs through a variety of mechanisms. For this reason, it is often difficult to achieve effective therapeutic results in the treatment of advanced PCa. Tanshinone is a new fat-soluble phenanthraquinone compound derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza that can play a therapeutic role in different cancers, including PCa. Several studies have shown that Tanshinone can target various molecular pathways of PCa, including the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, androgen receptor (AR) pathway, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which will affect the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and affect cell proliferation, apoptosis, tumor metabolism, genomic stability, and tumor drug resistance. Thus, the occurrence and development of PCa cells are inhibited. In this review, we summarized the in vivo and in vitro evidence of Tanshinone against prostate cancer and discussed the effect of Tanshinone on nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), AR, and mTOR. At the same time, we conducted a network pharmacology analysis on the four main components of Tanshinone to further screen the possible targets of Tanshinone against prostate cancer and provide ideas for future research.
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10
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Biomimetic Radical Chemistry and Applications. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27072042. [PMID: 35408441 PMCID: PMC9000372 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Some of the most interesting aspects of free radical chemistry that emerged in the last two decades are radical enzyme mechanisms, cell signaling cascades, antioxidant activities, and free radical-induced damage of biomolecules. In addition, identification of modified biomolecules opened the way for the evaluation of in vivo damage through biomarkers. When studying free radical-based chemical mechanisms, it is very important to establish biomimetic models, which allow the experiments to be performed in a simplified environment, but suitably designed to be in strict connection with cellular conditions. The 28 papers (11 reviews and 17 articles) published in the two Special Issues of Molecules on "Biomimetic Radical Chemistry and Applications (2019 and 2021)" show a remarkable range of research in this area. The biomimetic approach is presented with new insights and reviews of the current knowledge in the field of radical-based processes relevant to health, such as biomolecular damages and repair, signaling and biomarkers, biotechnological applications, and novel synthetic approaches.
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11
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Kisby GE, Spencer PS. Genotoxic Damage During Brain Development Presages Prototypical Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:752153. [PMID: 34924930 PMCID: PMC8675606 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.752153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Western Pacific Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC) is a disappearing prototypical neurodegenerative disorder (tau-dominated polyproteinopathy) linked with prior exposure to phytogenotoxins in cycad seed used for medicine and/or food. The principal cycad genotoxin, methylazoxymethanol (MAM), forms reactive carbon-centered ions that alkylate nucleic acids in fetal rodent brain and, depending on the timing of systemic administration, induces persistent developmental abnormalities of the cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, and retina. Whereas administration of MAM prenatally or postnatally can produce animal models of epilepsy, schizophrenia or ataxia, administration to adult animals produces little effect on brain structure or function. The neurotoxic effects of MAM administered to rats during cortical brain development (specifically, gestation day 17) are used to model the histological, neurophysiological and behavioral deficits of human schizophrenia, a condition that may precede or follow clinical onset of motor neuron disease in subjects with sporadic ALS and ALS/PDC. While studies of migrants to and from communities impacted by ALS/PDC indicate the degenerative brain disorder may be acquired in juvenile and adult life, a proportion of indigenous cases shows neurodevelopmental aberrations in the cerebellum and retina consistent with MAM exposure in utero. MAM induces specific patterns of DNA damage and repair that associate with increased tau expression in primary rat neuronal cultures and with brain transcriptional changes that parallel those associated with human ALS and Alzheimer's disease. We examine MAM in relation to neurodevelopment, epigenetic modification, DNA damage/replicative stress, genomic instability, somatic mutation, cell-cycle reentry and cellular senescence. Since the majority of neurodegenerative disease lacks a solely inherited genetic basis, research is needed to explore the hypothesis that early-life exposure to genotoxic agents may trigger or promote molecular events that culminate in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen E. Kisby
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States
| | - Peter S. Spencer
- School of Medicine (Neurology), Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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12
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Tice RR, Bassan A, Amberg A, Anger LT, Beal MA, Bellion P, Benigni R, Birmingham J, Brigo A, Bringezu F, Ceriani L, Crooks I, Cross K, Elespuru R, Faulkner DM, Fortin MC, Fowler P, Frericks M, Gerets HHJ, Jahnke GD, Jones DR, Kruhlak NL, Lo Piparo E, Lopez-Belmonte J, Luniwal A, Luu A, Madia F, Manganelli S, Manickam B, Mestres J, Mihalchik-Burhans AL, Neilson L, Pandiri A, Pavan M, Rider CV, Rooney JP, Trejo-Martin A, Watanabe-Sailor KH, White AT, Woolley D, Myatt GJ. In Silico Approaches In Carcinogenicity Hazard Assessment: Current Status and Future Needs. COMPUTATIONAL TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 20. [PMID: 35368437 DOI: 10.1016/j.comtox.2021.100191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Historically, identifying carcinogens has relied primarily on tumor studies in rodents, which require enormous resources in both money and time. In silico models have been developed for predicting rodent carcinogens but have not yet found general regulatory acceptance, in part due to the lack of a generally accepted protocol for performing such an assessment as well as limitations in predictive performance and scope. There remains a need for additional, improved in silico carcinogenicity models, especially ones that are more human-relevant, for use in research and regulatory decision-making. As part of an international effort to develop in silico toxicological protocols, a consortium of toxicologists, computational scientists, and regulatory scientists across several industries and governmental agencies evaluated the extent to which in silico models exist for each of the recently defined 10 key characteristics (KCs) of carcinogens. This position paper summarizes the current status of in silico tools for the assessment of each KC and identifies the data gaps that need to be addressed before a comprehensive in silico carcinogenicity protocol can be developed for regulatory use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond R Tice
- RTice Consulting, Hillsborough, North Carolina, 27278, USA
| | | | - Alexander Amberg
- Sanofi Preclinical Safety, Industriepark Höchst, 65926 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Lennart T Anger
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Marc A Beal
- Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0K9
| | | | | | - Jeffrey Birmingham
- GlaxoSmithKline, David Jack Centre for R&D, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0DP, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Brigo
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation, Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Lidia Ceriani
- Humane Society International, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ian Crooks
- British American Tobacco (Investments) Ltd, GR&D Centre, Southampton, SO15 8TL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rosalie Elespuru
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993, USA
| | - David M Faulkner
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Marie C Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08855, USA
| | - Paul Fowler
- FSTox Consulting (Genetic Toxicology), Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Gloria D Jahnke
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | | | - Naomi L Kruhlak
- Food and Drug Administration, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993, USA
| | - Elena Lo Piparo
- Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Juan Lopez-Belmonte
- Cuts Ice Ltd Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Amarjit Luniwal
- North American Science Associates (NAMSA) Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55426, USA
| | - Alice Luu
- Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Government of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0K9
| | - Federica Madia
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Serena Manganelli
- Chemical Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | | | - Jordi Mestres
- IMIM Institut Hospital Del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques and Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; and Chemotargets SL, Baldiri Reixac 4, Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Louise Neilson
- Broughton Nicotine Services, Oak Tree House, Earby, Lancashire, BB18 6JZ United Kingdom
| | - Arun Pandiri
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | | | - Cynthia V Rider
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - John P Rooney
- Integrated Laboratory Systems, LLC., Morrisville, North Carolina, 27560, USA
| | | | - Karen H Watanabe-Sailor
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, West Campus, Glendale, Arizona, 85306, USA
| | - Angela T White
- GlaxoSmithKline, David Jack Centre for R&D, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0DP, United Kingdom
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13
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Lee SY, Kim JJ, Miller KM. Bromodomain proteins: protectors against endogenous DNA damage and facilitators of genome integrity. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1268-1277. [PMID: 34548613 PMCID: PMC8492697 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00673-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous DNA damage is a major contributor to mutations, which are drivers of cancer development. Bromodomain (BRD) proteins are well-established participants in chromatin-based DNA damage response (DDR) pathways, which maintain genome integrity from cell-intrinsic and extrinsic DNA-damaging sources. BRD proteins are most well-studied as regulators of transcription, but emerging evidence has revealed their importance in other DNA-templated processes, including DNA repair and replication. How BRD proteins mechanistically protect cells from endogenous DNA damage through their participation in these pathways remains an active area of investigation. Here, we review several recent studies establishing BRD proteins as key influencers of endogenous DNA damage, including DNA–RNA hybrid (R-loops) formation during transcription and participation in replication stress responses. As endogenous DNA damage is known to contribute to several human diseases, including neurodegeneration, immunodeficiencies, cancer, and aging, the ability of BRD proteins to suppress DNA damage and mutations is likely to provide new insights into the involvement of BRD proteins in these diseases. Although many studies have focused on BRD proteins in transcription, evidence indicates that BRD proteins have emergent functions in DNA repair and genome stability and are participants in the etiology and treatment of diseases involving endogenous DNA damage. Bromodomain (BRD) proteins, known to regulate gene expression, switching particular genes on and off, also play key roles in repairing DNA damage, and studying them may help identify treatments for various diseases, including cancer. DNA damage can occur during normal cellular metabolism, for example, during copying DNA and gene expression. DNA damage is implicated in tumor formation as well as in neurodegeneration, immunodeficiency, and aging. Seo Yun Lee and colleagues at The University of Texas at Austin, USA, have reviewed new results showing how BRD proteins function in repairing DNA damage. They report that when DNA is damaged during copying in BRD-deficient cells, tumors can result. They also report that defects in BRD proteins are often present in cancers. Studying how BRD proteins function in both healthy and diseased cells could help to identify new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo Yun Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jae Jin Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA. .,Department of Life Science and Multidisciplinary Genome Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea.
| | - Kyle M Miller
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA. .,Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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Suchkova IO, Borisova EV, Patkin EL. Length Polymorphism and Methylation Status of UPS29 Minisatellite of the ACAP3 Gene as Molecular Biomarker of Epilepsy. Sex Differences in Seizure Types and Symptoms. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9206. [PMID: 33276684 PMCID: PMC7730309 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disease with different clinical forms and inter-individuals heterogeneity, which may be associated with genetic and/or epigenetic polymorphisms of tandem-repeated noncoding DNA. These polymorphisms may serve as predictive biomarkers of various forms of epilepsy. ACAP3 is the protein regulating morphogenesis of neurons and neuronal migration and is an integral component of important signaling pathways. This study aimed to carry out an association analysis of the length polymorphism and DNA methylation of the UPS29 minisatellite of the ACAP3 gene in patients with epilepsy. We revealed an association of short UPS29 alleles with increased risk of development of symptomatic and cryptogenic epilepsy in women, and also with cerebrovascular pathologies, structural changes in the brain, neurological status, and the clinical pattern of seizures in both women and men. The increase of frequency of hypomethylated UPS29 alleles in men with symptomatic epilepsy, and in women with both symptomatic and cryptogenic epilepsy was observed. For patients with hypomethylated UPS29 alleles, we also observed structural changes in the brain, neurological status, and the clinical pattern of seizures. These associations had sex-specific nature similar to a genetic association. In contrast with length polymorphism epigenetic changes affected predominantly the long UPS29 allele. We suppose that genetic and epigenetic alterations UPS29 can modify ACAP3 expression and thereby affect the development and clinical course of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina O. Suchkova
- Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Mammalian Development, Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia;
| | - Elena V. Borisova
- Department of Neurology, Clinic of Institute of Experimental Medicine, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia;
| | - Eugene L. Patkin
- Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Mammalian Development, Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia;
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Wengner AM, Scholz A, Haendler B. Targeting DNA Damage Response in Prostate and Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8273. [PMID: 33158305 PMCID: PMC7663807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormone signaling induces vast gene expression programs which necessitate the local formation of transcription factories at regulatory regions and large-scale alterations of the genome architecture to allow communication among distantly related cis-acting regions. This involves major stress at the genomic DNA level. Transcriptionally active regions are generally instable and prone to breakage due to the torsional stress and local depletion of nucleosomes that make DNA more accessible to damaging agents. A dedicated DNA damage response (DDR) is therefore essential to maintain genome integrity at these exposed regions. The DDR is a complex network involving DNA damage sensor proteins, such as the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1), the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase and the ATM and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase, as central regulators. The tight interplay between the DDR and steroid hormone receptors has been unraveled recently. Several DNA repair factors interact with the androgen and estrogen receptors and support their transcriptional functions. Conversely, both receptors directly control the expression of agents involved in the DDR. Impaired DDR is also exploited by tumors to acquire advantageous mutations. Cancer cells often harbor germline or somatic alterations in DDR genes, and their association with disease outcome and treatment response led to intensive efforts towards identifying selective inhibitors targeting the major players in this process. The PARP-1 inhibitors are now approved for ovarian, breast, and prostate cancer with specific genomic alterations. Additional DDR-targeting agents are being evaluated in clinical studies either as single agents or in combination with treatments eliciting DNA damage (e.g., radiation therapy, including targeted radiotherapy, and chemotherapy) or addressing targets involved in maintenance of genome integrity. Recent preclinical and clinical findings made in addressing DNA repair dysfunction in hormone-dependent and -independent prostate and breast tumors are presented. Importantly, the combination of anti-hormonal therapy with DDR inhibition or with radiation has the potential to enhance efficacy but still needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bernard Haendler
- Preclinical Research, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Müllerstr. 178, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (A.M.W.); (A.S.)
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Origin of Genome Instability and Determinants of Mutational Landscape in Cancer Cells. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11091101. [PMID: 32967144 PMCID: PMC7563369 DOI: 10.3390/genes11091101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome instability is a crucial and early event associated with an increased predisposition to tumor formation. In the absence of any exogenous agent, a single human cell is subjected to about 70,000 DNA lesions each day. It has now been shown that physiological cellular processes including DNA transactions during DNA replication and transcription contribute to DNA damage and induce DNA damage responses in the cell. These processes are also influenced by the three dimensional-chromatin architecture and epigenetic regulation which are altered during the malignant transformation of cells. In this review, we have discussed recent insights about how replication stress, oncogene activation, chromatin dynamics, and the illegitimate recombination of cell-free chromatin particles deregulate cellular processes in cancer cells and contribute to their evolution. The characterization of such endogenous sources of genome instability in cancer cells can be exploited for the development of new biomarkers and more effective therapies for cancer treatment.
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Forrer Charlier C, Martins RAP. Protective Mechanisms Against DNA Replication Stress in the Nervous System. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E730. [PMID: 32630049 PMCID: PMC7397197 DOI: 10.3390/genes11070730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The precise replication of DNA and the successful segregation of chromosomes are essential for the faithful transmission of genetic information during the cell cycle. Alterations in the dynamics of genome replication, also referred to as DNA replication stress, may lead to DNA damage and, consequently, mutations and chromosomal rearrangements. Extensive research has revealed that DNA replication stress drives genome instability during tumorigenesis. Over decades, genetic studies of inherited syndromes have established a connection between the mutations in genes required for proper DNA repair/DNA damage responses and neurological diseases. It is becoming clear that both the prevention and the responses to replication stress are particularly important for nervous system development and function. The accurate regulation of cell proliferation is key for the expansion of progenitor pools during central nervous system (CNS) development, adult neurogenesis, and regeneration. Moreover, DNA replication stress in glial cells regulates CNS tumorigenesis and plays a role in neurodegenerative diseases such as ataxia telangiectasia (A-T). Here, we review how replication stress generation and replication stress response (RSR) contribute to the CNS development, homeostasis, and disease. Both cell-autonomous mechanisms, as well as the evidence of RSR-mediated alterations of the cellular microenvironment in the nervous system, were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rodrigo A. P. Martins
- Programa de Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil;
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