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Hu L, Zhang Y, Guo L, Zhong H, Xie L, Zhou J, Liao C, Yao H, Fang J, Liu H, Zhang C, Zhang H, Zhu X, Luo M, von Kriegsheim A, Li B, Luo W, Zhang X, Chen X, Mendell JT, Xu L, Kapur P, Baldwin AS, Brugarolas J, Zhang Q. Kinome-wide siRNA screen identifies a DCLK2-TBK1 oncogenic signaling axis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Mol Cell 2024; 84:776-790.e5. [PMID: 38211588 PMCID: PMC10922811 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.12.010] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) is a potential therapeutic target in multiple cancers, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). However, targeting TBK1 in clinical practice is challenging. One approach to overcome this challenge would be to identify an upstream TBK1 regulator that could be targeted therapeutically in cancer specifically. In this study, we perform a kinome-wide small interfering RNA (siRNA) screen and identify doublecortin-like kinase 2 (DCLK2) as a TBK1 regulator in ccRCC. DCLK2 binds to and directly phosphorylates TBK1 on Ser172. Depletion of DCLK2 inhibits anchorage-independent colony growth and kidney tumorigenesis in orthotopic xenograft models. Conversely, overexpression of DCLK2203, a short isoform that predominates in ccRCC, promotes ccRCC cell growth and tumorigenesis in vivo. Mechanistically, DCLK2203 elicits its oncogenic signaling via TBK1 phosphorylation and activation. Taken together, these results suggest that DCLK2 is a TBK1 activator and potential therapeutic target for ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianxin Hu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yanfeng Zhang
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Lei Guo
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hua Zhong
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Ling Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chengheng Liao
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hongwei Yao
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jun Fang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hongyi Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xiaoqiang Zhu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Maowu Luo
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Alex von Kriegsheim
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Bufan Li
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Weibo Luo
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xuewu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xian Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Joshua T Mendell
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Lin Xu
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Payal Kapur
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Kidney Cancer Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Albert S Baldwin
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - James Brugarolas
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Kidney Cancer Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Kidney Cancer Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Ye L, Liu B, Huang J, Zhao X, Wang Y, Xu Y, Wang S. DCLK1 and its oncogenic functions: A promising therapeutic target for cancers. Life Sci 2024; 336:122294. [PMID: 38007147 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122294] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1), a significant constituent of the protein kinase superfamily and the doublecortin family, has been recognized as a prooncogenic factor that exhibits a strong association with the malignant progression and clinical prognosis of various cancers. DCLK1 serves as a stem cell marker that governs tumorigenesis, tumor cell reprogramming, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Multiple studies have indicated the capable of DCLK1 in regulating the DNA damage response and facilitating DNA damage repair. Additionally, DCLK1 is involved in the regulation of the immune microenvironment and the promotion of tumor immune evasion. Recently, DCLK1 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for a multitude of cancers. Several small-molecule inhibitors of DCLK1 have been identified. Nevertheless, the biological roles of DCLK1 are mainly ambiguous, particularly with the disparities between its α- and β-form transcripts in the malignant progression of cancers, which impedes the development of more precisely targeted drugs. This article focuses on tumor stem cells, tumor epithelial-mesenchymal transition, the DNA damage response, and the tumor microenvironment to provide a comprehensive overview of the association between DCLK1 and tumor malignant progression, address unsolved questions and current challenges, and project future directions for targeting DCLK1 for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Beibei Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Jingling Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Xiaolin Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Yungen Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
| | - Shuping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
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3
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Undi RB, Ahsan N, Larabee JL, Darlene-Reuter N, Papin J, Dogra S, Hannafon BN, Bronze MS, Houchen CW, Huycke MM, Ali N. Blocking of doublecortin-like kinase 1-regulated SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle restores cell signaling network. J Virol 2023; 97:e0119423. [PMID: 37861336 PMCID: PMC10688311 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01194-23] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Severe COVID-19 and post-acute sequelae often afflict patients with underlying co-morbidities. There is a pressing need for highly effective treatment, particularly in light of the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants. In a previous study, we demonstrated that DCLK1, a protein associated with cancer stem cells, is highly expressed in the lungs of COVID-19 patients and enhances viral production and hyperinflammatory responses. In this study, we report the pivotal role of DCLK1-regulated mechanisms in driving SARS-CoV-2 replication-transcription processes and pathogenic signaling. Notably, pharmacological inhibition of DCLK1 kinase during SARS-CoV-2 effectively impedes these processes and counteracts virus-induced alternations in global cell signaling. These findings hold significant potential for immediate application in treating COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Babu Undi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Nagib Ahsan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
- Mass Spectrometry, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jason L. Larabee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Nicole Darlene-Reuter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - James Papin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Samrita Dogra
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Bethany N. Hannafon
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Michael S. Bronze
- Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Courtney W. Houchen
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Mark M. Huycke
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Naushad Ali
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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4
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Chen XY, Kao C, Peng SW, Chang JH, Lee YL, Laiman V, Chung KF, Bhavsar PK, Heriyanto DS, Chuang KJ, Chuang HC. Role of DCLK1/Hippo pathway in type II alveolar epithelial cells differentiation in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Mol Med 2023; 29:159. [PMID: 37996782 PMCID: PMC10668445 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00760-0] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delay in type II alveolar epithelial cell (AECII) regeneration has been linked to higher mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, the interaction between Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) and the Hippo signaling pathway in ARDS-associated AECII differentiation remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to understand the role of the DCLK1/Hippo pathway in mediating AECII differentiation in ARDS. MATERIALS AND METHODS AECII MLE-12 cells were exposed to 0, 0.1, or 1 μg/mL of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 6 and 12 h. In the mouse model, C57BL/6JNarl mice were intratracheally (i.t.) injected with 0 (control) or 5 mg/kg LPS and were euthanized for lung collection on days 3 and 7. RESULTS We found that LPS induced AECII markers of differentiation by reducing surfactant protein C (SPC) and p53 while increasing T1α (podoplanin) and E-cadherin at 12 h. Concurrently, nuclear YAP dynamic regulation and increased TAZ levels were observed in LPS-exposed AECII within 12 h. Inhibition of YAP consistently decreased cell levels of SPC, claudin 4 (CLDN-4), galectin 3 (LGALS-3), and p53 while increasing transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) at 6 h. Furthermore, DCLK1 expression was reduced in isolated human AECII of ARDS, consistent with the results in LPS-exposed AECII at 6 h and mouse SPC-positive (SPC+) cells after 3-day LPS exposure. We observed that downregulated DCLK1 increased p-YAP/YAP, while DCLK1 overexpression slightly reduced p-YAP/YAP, indicating an association between DCLK1 and Hippo-YAP pathway. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that DCLK1-mediated Hippo signaling components of YAP/TAZ regulated markers of AECII-to-AECI differentiation in an LPS-induced ARDS model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yue Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ching Kao
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Syue-Wei Peng
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jer-Hwa Chang
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yueh-Lun Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
| | - Vincent Laiman
- International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Pankaj K Bhavsar
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Didik Setyo Heriyanto
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kai-Jen Chuang
- School of Public Health, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Inhalation Toxicology Research Lab (ITRL), School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 110, Taiwan.
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5
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Moore LL, Houchen CW. Epigenetic Landscape and Therapeutic Implication of Gene Isoforms of Doublecortin-Like Kinase 1 for Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16407. [PMID: 38003596 PMCID: PMC10671580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216407] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
While significant strides have been made in understanding cancer biology, the enhancement in patient survival is limited, underscoring the urgency for innovative strategies. Epigenetic modifications characterized by hereditary shifts in gene expression without changes to the DNA sequence play a critical role in producing alternative gene isoforms. When these processes go awry, they influence cancer onset, growth, spread, and cancer stemness. In this review, we delve into the epigenetic and isoform nuances of the protein kinase, doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1). Recognized as a hallmark of tumor stemness, DCLK1 plays a pivotal role in tumorigenesis, and DCLK1 isoforms, shaped by alternative promoter usage and splicing, can reveal potential therapeutic touchpoints. Our discussion centers on recent findings pertaining to the specific functions of DCLK1 isoforms and the prevailing understanding of its epigenetic regulation via its two distinct promoters. It is noteworthy that all DCLK1 isoforms retain their kinase domain, suggesting that their unique functionalities arise from non-kinase mechanisms. Consequently, our research has pivoted to drugs that specifically influence the epigenetic generation of these DCLK1 isoforms. We posit that a combined therapeutic approach, harnessing both the epigenetic regulators of specific DCLK1 isoforms and DCLK1-targeted drugs, may prove more effective than therapies that solely target DCLK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landon L. Moore
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA;
| | - Courtney W. Houchen
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA;
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- The Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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6
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Venkat A, Watterson G, Byrne DP, O'Boyle B, Shrestha S, Gravel N, Fairweather EE, Daly LA, Bunn C, Yeung W, Aggarwal I, Katiyar S, Eyers CE, Eyers PA, Kannan N. Mechanistic and evolutionary insights into isoform-specific 'supercharging' in DCLK family kinases. eLife 2023; 12:RP87958. [PMID: 37883155 PMCID: PMC10602587 DOI: 10.7554/elife.87958] [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] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Catalytic signaling outputs of protein kinases are dynamically regulated by an array of structural mechanisms, including allosteric interactions mediated by intrinsically disordered segments flanking the conserved catalytic domain. The doublecortin-like kinases (DCLKs) are a family of microtubule-associated proteins characterized by a flexible C-terminal autoregulatory 'tail' segment that varies in length across the various human DCLK isoforms. However, the mechanism whereby these isoform-specific variations contribute to unique modes of autoregulation is not well understood. Here, we employ a combination of statistical sequence analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vitro mutational analysis to define hallmarks of DCLK family evolutionary divergence, including analysis of splice variants within the DCLK1 sub-family, which arise through alternative codon usage and serve to 'supercharge' the inhibitory potential of the DCLK1 C-tail. We identify co-conserved motifs that readily distinguish DCLKs from all other calcium calmodulin kinases (CAMKs), and a 'Swiss Army' assembly of distinct motifs that tether the C-terminal tail to conserved ATP and substrate-binding regions of the catalytic domain to generate a scaffold for autoregulation through C-tail dynamics. Consistently, deletions and mutations that alter C-terminal tail length or interfere with co-conserved interactions within the catalytic domain alter intrinsic protein stability, nucleotide/inhibitor binding, and catalytic activity, suggesting isoform-specific regulation of activity through alternative splicing. Our studies provide a detailed framework for investigating kinome-wide regulation of catalytic output through cis-regulatory events mediated by intrinsically disordered segments, opening new avenues for the design of mechanistically divergent DCLK1 modulators, stabilizers, or degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarya Venkat
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Grace Watterson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Dominic P Byrne
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Brady O'Boyle
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Safal Shrestha
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Nathan Gravel
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Emma E Fairweather
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Leonard A Daly
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Proteome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Claire Bunn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Wayland Yeung
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Ishan Aggarwal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Samiksha Katiyar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - Claire E Eyers
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Proteome Research, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Patrick A Eyers
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Natarajan Kannan
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
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7
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Hardt R, Dehghani A, Schoor C, Gödderz M, Cengiz Winter N, Ahmadi S, Sharma R, Schork K, Eisenacher M, Gieselmann V, Winter D. Proteomic investigation of neural stem cell to oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation reveals phosphorylation-dependent Dclk1 processing. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:260. [PMID: 37594553 PMCID: PMC10439241 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04892-8] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes are generated via a two-step mechanism from pluripotent neural stem cells (NSCs): after differentiation of NSCs to oligodendrocyte precursor/NG2 cells (OPCs), they further develop into mature oligodendrocytes. The first step of this differentiation process is only incompletely understood. In this study, we utilized the neurosphere assay to investigate NSC to OPC differentiation in a time course-dependent manner by mass spectrometry-based (phospho-) proteomics. We identify doublecortin-like kinase 1 (Dclk1) as one of the most prominently regulated proteins in both datasets, and show that it undergoes a gradual transition between its short/long isoform during NSC to OPC differentiation. This is regulated by phosphorylation of its SP-rich region, resulting in inhibition of proteolytic Dclk1 long cleavage, and therefore Dclk1 short generation. Through interactome analyses of different Dclk1 isoforms by proximity biotinylation, we characterize their individual putative interaction partners and substrates. All data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD040652.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hardt
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alireza Dehghani
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397, Biberach, Germany
| | - Carmen Schoor
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Markus Gödderz
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nur Cengiz Winter
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Cologne, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Shiva Ahmadi
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Bayer Pharmaceuticals, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ramesh Sharma
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Karin Schork
- Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Medical Faculty, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
- Medical Proteome Analysis, Center for Protein Diagnostics, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Martin Eisenacher
- Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Medical Faculty, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
- Medical Proteome Analysis, Center for Protein Diagnostics, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Volkmar Gieselmann
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dominic Winter
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Nussallee 11, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
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8
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Venkat A, Watterson G, Byrne DP, O’Boyle B, Shrestha S, Gravel N, Fairweather EE, Daly LA, Bunn C, Yeung W, Aggarwal I, Katiyar S, Eyers CE, Eyers PA, Kannan N. Mechanistic and evolutionary insights into isoform-specific 'supercharging' in DCLK family kinases. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.29.534689. [PMID: 37034755 PMCID: PMC10081240 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.29.534689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Catalytic signaling outputs of protein kinases are dynamically regulated by an array of structural mechanisms, including allosteric interactions mediated by intrinsically disordered segments flanking the conserved catalytic domain. The Doublecortin Like Kinases (DCLKs) are a family of microtubule-associated proteins characterized by a flexible C-terminal autoregulatory 'tail' segment that varies in length across the various human DCLK isoforms. However, the mechanism whereby these isoform-specific variations contribute to unique modes of autoregulation is not well understood. Here, we employ a combination of statistical sequence analysis, molecular dynamics simulations and in vitro mutational analysis to define hallmarks of DCLK family evolutionary divergence, including analysis of splice variants within the DCLK1 sub-family, which arise through alternative codon usage and serve to 'supercharge' the inhibitory potential of the DCLK1 C-tail. We identify co-conserved motifs that readily distinguish DCLKs from all other Calcium Calmodulin Kinases (CAMKs), and a 'Swiss-army' assembly of distinct motifs that tether the C-terminal tail to conserved ATP and substrate-binding regions of the catalytic domain to generate a scaffold for auto-regulation through C-tail dynamics. Consistently, deletions and mutations that alter C-terminal tail length or interfere with co-conserved interactions within the catalytic domain alter intrinsic protein stability, nucleotide/inhibitor-binding, and catalytic activity, suggesting isoform-specific regulation of activity through alternative splicing. Our studies provide a detailed framework for investigating kinome-wide regulation of catalytic output through cis-regulatory events mediated by intrinsically disordered segments, opening new avenues for the design of mechanistically-divergent DCLK1 modulators, stabilizers or degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarya Venkat
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Grace Watterson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Dominic P. Byrne
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Brady O’Boyle
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Safal Shrestha
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Nathan Gravel
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Emma E. Fairweather
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Leonard A. Daly
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
- Centre for Proteome Research, Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Claire Bunn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Wayland Yeung
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Ishan Aggarwal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Samiksha Katiyar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Claire E. Eyers
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
- Centre for Proteome Research, Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Patrick A. Eyers
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Natarajan Kannan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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9
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Yan R, Huang X, Liu H, Xiao Z, Liu J, An G, Ge Y. DCLK1 Drives EGFR-TKI-Acquired Resistance in Lung Adenocarcinoma by Remodeling the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Status. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051490. [PMID: 37239162 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051490] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) is a first-line treatment for lung adenocarcinoma with EGFR-sensitive mutations, but acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs remains a problem in clinical practice. The development of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical mechanism that induces acquired resistance to TKIs. Reversing acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs through targeting the key molecules driving EMT provides an alternative choice for patients. We, therefore, aimed to explore the role of doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) as an EMT driver gene in the acquired resistance of lung adenocarcinoma to EGFR-TKIs. METHODS The IC50 of Gefitinib or Osimertinib in PC9/HCC827 cells was measured using a cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay. The expression levels of EMT-related genes in PC9 and HCC827 cells were detected using RT-PCR and Western blot. Cell migration and invasion abilities were assessed via a transwell assay. For the in vivo experiments, PC9 cells were subcutaneously injected into BALB/c nude mice to form tumors. Upon harvesting, tumor tissues were retained for RT-PCR, Western blot, and polychromatic fluorescence staining to detect biomarker changes in the EMT process. RESULTS Gefitinib-resistant PC9 (PC9/GR) and Osimertinib-resistant HCC827 (HCC827/OR) cells showed remarkable activation of EMT and enhanced migration and invasion abilities compared to TKI-sensitive cells. In addition, DCLK1 expression was markedly increased in EGFR-TKI-resistant lung adenocarcinoma cells. The targeted knockout of DCLK1 effectively reversed the EMT phenotype in TKI-resistant cells and improved EGFR-TKI sensitivity, which was further validated by the in vivo experiments. CONCLUSIONS DCLK1 facilitates acquired resistance to EGFR-TKI in lung adenocarcinoma by inducting EMT and accelerating the migration and invasion abilities of TKI-resistant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yan
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xuying Huang
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Heshu Liu
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Zeru Xiao
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Guangyu An
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yang Ge
- Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, 8 Gongren Tiyuchang Nanlu Road, Chaoyang Dist., Beijing 100020, China
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10
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Carli ALE, Hardy JM, Hoblos H, Ernst M, Lucet IS, Buchert M. Structure-Guided Prediction of the Functional Impact of DCLK1 Mutations on Tumorigenesis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030990. [PMID: 36979969 PMCID: PMC10046695 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030990] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a functional serine/threonine (S/T)-kinase and a member of the doublecortin family of proteins which are characterized by their ability to bind to microtubules (MTs). DCLK1 is a proposed cancer driver gene, and its upregulation is associated with poor overall survival in several solid cancer types. However, how DCLK1 associates with MTs and how its kinase function contributes to pro-tumorigenic processes is poorly understood. This review builds on structural models to propose not only the specific functions of the domains but also attempts to predict the impact of individual somatic missense mutations on DCLK1 functions. Somatic missense mutations in DCLK1 are most frequently located within the N-terminal MT binding region and likely impact on the ability of DCLK1 to bind to αβ-tubulin and to polymerize and stabilize MTs. Moreover, the MT binding affinity of DCLK1 is negatively regulated by its auto-phosphorylation, and therefore mutations that affect kinase activity are predicted to indirectly alter MT dynamics. The emerging picture portrays DCLK1 as an MT-associated protein whose interactions with tubulin heterodimers and MTs are tightly controlled processes which, when disrupted, may confer pro-tumorigenic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa L E Carli
- Cancer Inflammation Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Joshua M Hardy
- ACRF Chemical Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Hanadi Hoblos
- ACRF Chemical Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Matthias Ernst
- Cancer Inflammation Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Isabelle S Lucet
- ACRF Chemical Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Michael Buchert
- Cancer Inflammation Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
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11
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Murphy KE, Zhang EY, Wyatt EV, Sperringer JE, Duncan BW, Maness PF. Doublecortin-Like Kinase 1 Facilitates Dendritic Spine Growth of Pyramidal Neurons in Mouse Prefrontal Cortex. Neuroscience 2023; 508:98-109. [PMID: 36064052 PMCID: PMC10317307 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.08.020] [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: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The L1 cell adhesion molecule NrCAM (Neuron-glia related cell adhesion molecule) functions as a co-receptor for secreted class 3 Semaphorins to prune subpopulations of dendritic spines on apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons in the developing mouse neocortex. The developing spine cytoskeleton is enriched in actin filaments, but a small number of microtubules have been shown to enter the spine apparently trafficking vesicles to the membrane. Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a member of the Doublecortin (DCX) family of microtubule-binding proteins with serine/threonine kinase activity. To determine if DCLK1 plays a role in spine remodeling, we generated a tamoxifen-inducible mouse line (Nex1Cre-ERT2: DCLK1flox/flox: RCE) to delete microtubule binding isoforms of DCLK1 from pyramidal neurons during postnatal stages of spine development. Homozygous DCLK1 conditional mutant mice exhibited decreased spine density on apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex (layer 2/3). Mature mushroom spines were selectively decreased upon DCLK1 deletion but dendritic arborization was unaltered. Mutagenesis and binding studies revealed that DCLK1 bound NrCAM at the conserved FIGQY1231 motif in the NrCAM cytoplasmic domain, a known interaction site for the actin-spectrin adaptor Ankyrin. These findings demonstrate in a novel mouse model that DCLK1 facilitates spine growth and maturation on cortical pyramidal neurons in the mouse prefrontal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Erin Y Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Elliott V Wyatt
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Justin E Sperringer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Bryce W Duncan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Patricia F Maness
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and Carolina Institute of Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, United States.
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12
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Targeting Doublecortin-Like Kinase 1 (DCLK1)-Regulated SARS-CoV-2 Pathogenesis in COVID-19. J Virol 2022; 96:e0096722. [PMID: 35943255 PMCID: PMC9472619 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00967-22] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Host factors play critical roles in SARS-CoV-2 infection-associated pathology and the severity of COVID-19. In this study, we systematically analyzed the roles of SARS-CoV-2-induced host factors, doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1), and S100A9 in viral pathogenesis. In autopsied subjects with COVID-19 and pre-existing chronic liver disease, we observed high levels of DCLK1 and S100A9 expression and immunosuppressive (DCLK1+S100A9+CD206+) M2-like macrophages and N2-like neutrophils in lungs and livers. DCLK1 and S100A9 expression were rarely observed in normal controls, COVID-19-negative subjects with chronic lung disease, or COVID-19 subjects without chronic liver disease. In hospitalized patients with COVID-19, we detected 2 to 3-fold increased levels of circulating DCLK1+S100A9+ mononuclear cells that correlated with disease severity. We validated the SARS-CoV-2-dependent generation of these double-positive immune cells in coculture. SARS-CoV-2-induced DCLK1 expression correlated with the activation of β-catenin, a known regulator of the DCLK1 promoter. Gain and loss of function studies showed that DCLK1 kinase amplified live virus production and promoted cytokine, chemokine, and growth factor secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Inhibition of DCLK1 kinase blocked pro-inflammatory caspase-1/interleukin-1β signaling in infected cells. Treatment of SARS-CoV-2-infected cells with inhibitors of DCLK1 kinase and S100A9 normalized cytokine/chemokine profiles and attenuated DCLK1 expression and β-catenin activation. In conclusion, we report previously unidentified roles of DCLK1 in augmenting SARS-CoV-2 viremia, inflammatory cytokine expression, and dysregulation of immune cells involved in innate immunity. DCLK1 could be a potential therapeutic target for COVID-19, especially in patients with underlying comorbid diseases associated with DCLK1 expression. IMPORTANCE High mortality in COVID-19 is associated with underlying comorbidities such as chronic liver diseases. Successful treatment of severe/critical COVID-19 remains challenging. Herein, we report a targetable host factor, DCLK1, that amplifies SARS-CoV-2 production, cytokine secretion, and inflammatory pathways via activation of β-catenin(p65)/DCLK1/S100A9/NF-κB signaling. Furthermore, we observed in the lung, liver, and blood an increased prevalence of immune cells coexpressing DCLK1 and S100A9, a myeloid-derived proinflammatory protein. These cells were associated with increased disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Finally, we used a novel small-molecule inhibitor of DCLK1 kinase (DCLK1-IN-1) and S100A9 inhibitor (tasquinimod) to decrease virus production in vitro and normalize hyperinflammatory responses known to contribute to disease severity in COVID-19.
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13
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β-Arrestin2 Is Critically Involved in the Differential Regulation of Phosphosignaling Pathways by Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone and Taltirelin. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091473. [PMID: 35563779 PMCID: PMC9103620 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and its analogs, including taltirelin (TAL), have demonstrated a range of effects on the central nervous system that represent potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of various neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms of their actions remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated phosphosignaling dynamics in pituitary GH1 cells affected by TRH and TAL and the putative role of β-arrestin2 in mediating these effects. Our results revealed widespread alterations in many phosphosignaling pathways involving signal transduction via small GTPases, MAP kinases, Ser/Thr- and Tyr-protein kinases, Wnt/β-catenin, and members of the Hippo pathway. The differential TRH- or TAL-induced phosphorylation of numerous proteins suggests that these ligands exhibit some degree of biased agonism at the TRH receptor. The different phosphorylation patterns induced by TRH or TAL in β-arrestin2-deficient cells suggest that the β-arrestin2 scaffold is a key factor determining phosphorylation events after TRH receptor activation. Our results suggest that compounds that modulate kinase and phosphatase activity can be considered as additional adjuvants to enhance the potential therapeutic value of TRH or TAL.
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