The Mdm2 RING domain C-terminus is required for supramolecular assembly and ubiquitin ligase activity

MDM2 promotes SUMO-2/3 modification of p53 to modulate transcriptional activity

The tumor suppressor p53 is extensively regulated by post-translational modification, including modification by the small ubiquitin-related modifier SUMO. We show here that MDM2, previously shown to promote ubiquitin, Nedd8 and SUMO-1 modification of p53, can also enhance conjugation of endogenous SUMO-2/3 to p53. Sumoylation activity requires p53-MDM2 binding but does not depend on an intact RING finger. Both ARF and L11 can promote SUMO-2/3 conjugation of p53. However, unlike the previously described SUMO-1 conjugation of p53 by an MDM2-ARF complex, this activity does not depend on the ability of MDM2 to relocalize to the nucleolus. Interestingly, the SUMO consensus is not conserved in mouse p53, which is therefore not modified by SUMO-2/3. Finally, we show that conjugation of SUMO-2/3 to p53 correlates with a reduction of both activation and repression of a subset of p53-target genes.

RINGs of good and evil: RING finger ubiquitin ligases at the crossroads of tumour suppression and oncogenesis

The ubiquitin-proteasome system has numerous crucial roles in physiology and pathophysiology. Fundamental to the specificity of this system are ubiquitin-protein ligases (E3s). Of these, the majority are RING finger and RING finger-related E3s. Many RING finger E3s have roles in processes that are central to the maintenance of genomic integrity and cellular homeostasis, such as the anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), the SKP1-cullin 1-F-box protein (SCF) E3s, MDM2, BRCA1, Fanconi anaemia proteins, CBL proteins, von Hippel-Lindau tumour suppressor (VHL) and SIAH proteins. As a result, many RING finger E3s are implicated in either the suppression or the progression of cancer. This Review summarizes current knowledge in this area.

Discovery of Mdm2-MdmX E3 ligase inhibitors using a cell-based ubiquitination assay

E3 ubiquitin ligases are of interest as drug targets for their ability to regulate protein stability and function. The oncogene Mdm2 is an attractive E3 ligase to target, as it is the key negative regulator of the tumor suppressor p53, which controls the transcription of genes involved in cell fate. Overexpression of Mdm2 facilitates tumorigenesis by inactivating p53, and through p53-independent oncogenic effects. We developed a high-throughput cellular Mdm2 auto-ubiquitination assay, which we used to discover a class of small-molecule Mdm2 ligase activity inhibitors. These compounds inhibit Mdm2 and p53 ubiquitination in cells, reduce viability of cells with wild-type p53, and synergize with DNA-damaging agents to cause cell death. We determined that these compounds effectively inhibit the E3 ligase activity of the Mdm2-MdmX hetero-complex. This mechanism may be exploitable to create a new class of anti-tumor agents.

MDM4 (MDMX) and its Transcript Variants

MDM family proteins are crucial regulators of the oncosuppressor p53. Alterations of their gene status, mainly amplification events, have been frequently observed in human tumors.MDM4 is one of the two members of the MDM family. The human gene is located on chromosome 1 at q32-33 and codes for a protein of 490aa. In analogy to MDM2, besides the full-length mRNA several transcript variants of MDM4 have been identified. Almost all variants thus far described derive from a splicing process, both through canonical and aberrant splicing events. Some of these variants are expressed in normal tissues, others have been observed only in tumor samples. The presence of these variants may be considered a fine tuning of the function of the full-length protein, especially in normal cells. In tumor cells, some variants show oncogenic properties.This review summarizes all the different MDM4 splicing forms thus far described and their role in the regulation of the wild type protein function in normal and tumor cells. In addition, a description of the full-length protein structure with all known interacting proteins thus far identified and a comparison of the MDM4 variant structure with that of full-length protein are presented. Finally, a parallel between MDM4 and MDM2 variants is discussed.

Contribution of E3-ubiquitin ligase activity to HIV-1 restriction by TRIM5alpha(rh): structure of the RING domain of TRIM5alpha

TRIM5α(rh) is a cytosolic protein that potently restricts HIV-1 before reverse transcription. TRIM5α(rh) is composed of four different domains: RING, B-box 2, coiled coil, and B30.2(SPRY). The contribution of each of these domains to restriction has been extensively studied, with the exception of the RING domain. The RING domain of TRIM5α exhibits E3-ubiquitin ligase activity, but the contribution of this activity to the restriction of HIV-1 is not known. To test the hypothesis that the E3-ubiquitin ligase activity of the RING domain modulates TRIM5α(rh) restriction of HIV-1, we correlated the E3-ubiquitin ligase activity of a panel of TRIM5α(rh) RING domain variants with the ability of these mutant proteins to restrict HIV-1. For this purpose, we first solved the nuclear magnetic resonance structure of the RING domain of TRIM5α and defined potential functional regions of the RING domain by homology to other RING domains. With this structural information, we performed a systematic mutagenesis of the RING domain regions and tested the TRIM5α RING domain variants for the ability to undergo self-ubiquitylation. Several residues, particularly the ones on the E2-binding region of the RING domain, were defective in their self-ubiquitylation ability. To correlate HIV-1 restriction to self-ubiquitylation, we used RING domain mutant proteins that were defective in self-ubiquitylation but preserve important properties required for potent restriction by TRIM5α(rh), such as capsid binding and higher-order self-association. From these investigations, we found a set of residues that when mutated results in TRIM5α molecules that lost both the ability to potently restrict HIV-1 and their self-ubiquitylation activity. Remarkably, all of these changes were in residues located in the E2-binding region of the RING domain. Overall, these results demonstrate a role for TRIM5α self-ubiquitylation in the ability of TRIM5α to restrict HIV-1.

The p53 inhibitors MDM2/MDMX complex is required for control of p53 activity in vivo

There are currently two distinct models proposed to explain why both MDM2 and MDMX are required in p53 control, with a key difference centered on whether these two p53 inhibitors work together or independently. To test these two competing models, we generated knockin mice expressing a point mutation MDMX mutant (C462A) that is defective in MDM2 binding. This approach allowed a targeted disassociation of the MDM2/MDMX heterocomplex without affecting the ability of MDMX to bind to p53, and while leaving the MDM2 protein itself completely untouched. Significantly, Mdmx(C462A/C462A) homozygous mice died at approximately day 9.5 of embryonic development, as the result of a combination of apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation, as shown by TUNEL and BrdU incorporation assays, respectively. Interestingly, even though the MDMX mutant protein abundance was found slightly elevated in the Mdmx(C462A/C462A) homozygous embryos, both the abundance and activity of p53 were markedly increased. A p53-dependent death was demonstrated by the finding that concomitant deletion of p53 completely rescued the embryonic lethality in Mdmx(C462A/C462A) homozygous mice. Our data demonstrate that MDM2 and MDMX function as an integral complex in p53 control, providing insights into the nonredundant nature of the function of MDM2 and MDMX.

Caging the beast: TRIM5α binding to the HIV-1 core

The potent HIV-1 inhibitor TRIM5α blocks HIV-1 infection by accelerating the uncoating of HIV-1. TRIM5α is known to form higher-order self-association complexes that contribute to the avidity of TRIM5α for the HIV-1 capsid, and are essential to inhibit infection; these higher-order self-association complexes are dependent upon an intact B-box 2 domain. Even though the ability to form higher-order self-association complexes resembles the clathrin triskelion that forms a protein array, or cage, around the endocytic vesicle, evidence for the ability of TRIM5α to assemble a similar type of structure surrounding the HIV-1 core has been lacking. Recent work by Ganser-Pornillos, Chandrasekaran and colleagues has now demonstrated the ability of the restriction factor TRIM5α to "cage" or "net" the HIV-1 core by forming an hexagonal array on the surface of the viral capsid. This hexagonal array is strikingly similar in design to the array formed by the clathrin triskelion on the surface of the clathrin-coated endocytic vesicle. This remarkable finding represents an important advance on our understanding of the restriction factor TRIM5α, and suggests that TRIM5α cages the HIV-1 core in order to terminate infection. The present note discusses the implications of this discovery.

Parkin, A Top Level Manager in the Cell's Sanitation Department

Parkin belongs to a class of multiple RING domain proteins designated as RBR (RING, in between RING, RING) proteins. In this review we examine what is known regarding the structure/function relationship of the Parkin protein. Parkin contains three RING domains plus a ubiquitin-like domain and an in-between-RING (IBR) domain. RING domains are rich in cysteine amino acids that act as ligands to bind zinc ions. RING domains may interact with DNA or with other proteins and perform a wide range of functions. Some function as E3 ubiquitin ligases, participating in attachment of ubiquitin chains to signal proteasome degradation; however, ubiquitin may be attached for purposes other than proteasome degradation.

It was determined that the C-terminal most RING, RING2, is essential for Parkin to function as an E3 ubiquitin ligase and a number of substrates have been identified. However, Parkin also participates in a number of other fiunctions, such as DNA repair, microtubule stabilization, and formation of aggresomes. Some functions, such as participation in a multi-protein complex implicated in NMDA activity at the post synaptic density, do not require ubiquitination of substrate molecules. Recent observations of RING proteins suggest their function may be regulated by zinc ion binding. We have modeled the three RING domains of Parkin and have identified a new set of RING2 ligands. This set allows for binding of two rather than just one zinc ion, opening the possibility that the number of zinc ions bound acts as a molecular switch to modulate Parkin function.

Functions of MDMX in the modulation of the p53-response

The MDM family proteins MDM2 and MDMX are two critical regulators of the p53 tumor suppressor protein. Expression of both proteins is necessary for allowing the embryonal development by keeping the activity of p53 in check. Upon stresses that need to activate p53 to perform its function as guardian of the genome, p53 has to be liberated from these two inhibitors. In this review, we will discuss the various mechanisms by which MDMX protein levels are downregulated upon various types of stress, including posttranslational modifications of the MDMX protein and the regulation of mdmx mRNA expression, including alternative splicing. In addition, the putative function(s) of the described MDMX splice variants, particularly in tumor development, will be discussed. Lastly, in contrast to common belief, we have recently shown the existence of a p53-MDMX feedback loop, which is important for dampening the p53-response at later phases after genotoxic stress.

Mdm2 links genotoxic stress and metabolism to p53

Mouse double minute 2 (Mdm2) gene was isolated from a cDNA library derived from transformed mouse 3T3 cells, and was classified as an oncogene as it confers 3T3 and Rat2 cells tumorigenicity when overexpressed. It encodes a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling ubiquitin E3 ligase, with its main target being tumor suppressor p53, which is mutated in more than 50% of human primary tumors. Mdm2's oncogenic activity is mainly mediated by p53, which is activated by various stresses, especially genotoxic stress, via Atm (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) and Atr (Atm and Rad3-related). Activated p53 inhibits cell proliferation, induces apoptosis or senescence, and maintains genome integrity. Mdm2 is also a target gene of p53 transcription factor. Thus, Mdm2 and p53 form a feedback regulatory loop. External and internal cues, through multiple signaling pathways, can act on Mdm2 to regulate p53 levels and cell proliferation, death, and senescence. This review will focus on how Mdm2 is regulated under genotoxic stress, and by the Akt1-mTOR-S6K1 pathway that is activated by insulin, growth factors, amino acids, or energy status.

A small-molecule inhibitor of MDMX activates p53 and induces apoptosis

The p53 inactivation caused by aberrant expression of its major regulators (e.g., MDM2 and MDMX) contributes to the genesis of a large number of human cancers. Recent studies have shown that restoration of p53 activity by counteracting p53 repressors is a promising anticancer strategy. Although agents (e.g., nutlin-3a) that disrupt MDM2-p53 interaction can inhibit tumor growth, they are less effective in cancer cells that express high levels of MDMX. MDMX binds to p53 and can repress the tumor suppressor function of p53 through inhibiting its trans-activation activity and/or destabilizing the protein. Here we report the identification of a benzofuroxan derivative [7-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-4-nitro-1-oxido-2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-1-ium, NSC207895] that could inhibit MDMX expression in cancer cells through a reporter-based drug screening. Treatments of MCF-7 cells with this small-molecule MDMX inhibitor activated p53, resulting in elevated expression of proapoptotic genes (e.g., PUMA, BAX, and PIG3). Importantly, this novel small-molecule p53 activator caused MCF-7 cells to undergo apoptosis and acted additively with nutlin-3a to activate p53 and decrease the viability of cancer cells. These results thus show that small molecules targeting MDMX expression would be of therapeutic benefits.

Structural and functional comparison of the RING domains of two p53 E3 ligases, Mdm2 and Pirh2

The tumor suppressor p53 maintains genome stability and prevents malignant transformation by promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Both Mdm2 and Pirh2 have been shown to ubiquitylate p53 through their RING domains, thereby targeting p53 for proteasomal degradation. Using structural and functional analyses, here we show that the Pirh2 RING domain differs from the Mdm2 RING domain in its oligomeric state, surface charge distribution, and zinc coordination scheme. Pirh2 also possesses weaker E3 ligase activity toward p53 and directs ubiquitin to different residues on p53. NMR and mutagenesis studies suggest that whereas Pirh2 and Mdm2 share a conserved E2 binding site, the seven C-terminal residues of the Mdm2 RING directly contribute to Mdm2 E3 ligase activity, a feature unique to Mdm2 and absent in the Pirh2 RING domain. This comprehensive analysis of the Pirh2 and Mdm2 RING domains provides structural and mechanistic insight into p53 regulation by its E3 ligases.

c-Abl phosphorylation of Mdm2 facilitates Mdm2-Mdmx complex formation

Mdm2 and Mdmx are oncoproteins that have essential yet nonredundant roles in development and function as part of a multicomponent ubiquitinating complex that targets p53 for proteasomal degradation. However, in response to DNA damage, Mdm2 and Mdmx are phosphorylated and protect p53 through various mechanisms. It has been predicted that Mdm2-Mdmx complex formation modulates Mdm2 ligase activity, yet the mechanism that promotes formation of Mdm2-Mdmx complexes is unknown. Here, we show that optimal Mdm2-Mdmx complex formation requires c-Abl phosphorylation of Mdm2 both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, Abl phosphorylation of Mdm2 is required for efficient ubiquitination of Mdmx in vitro, and eliminating c-Abl signaling, using c-Abl(-/-) knock-out murine embryonic fibroblasts, led to a decrease in Mdmx ubiquitination. Further, p53 levels are not induced as efficiently in c-Abl(-/-) murine embryonic fibroblasts following DNA damage. Overall, these results define a direct link between genotoxic stress-activated c-Abl kinase signaling and Mdm2-Mdmx complex formation. Our results add an important regulatory mechanism for the activation of p53 in response to DNA damage.

Enigma negatively regulates p53 through MDM2 and promotes tumor cell survival in mice

The human E3 ubiquitin ligase murine double minute 2 (MDM2) targets the tumor suppressor p53 for ubiquitination and degradation but also promotes its own ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. As the balance between MDM2 and p53 levels plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, we sought to identify factors selectively inhibiting MDM2 self-ubiquitination. Here we have shown that the LIM domain protein Enigma directly interacts with MDM2 to form a ternary complex with p53 in vitro and in human hepatoma and colon carcinoma cell lines and mouse embryonic fibroblasts. We found that Enigma elicited p53 degradation by inhibiting MDM2 self-ubiquitination and increasing its ubiquitin ligase activity toward p53 in cells. Moreover, mitogenic stimuli such as serum, FGF, and HGF increased Enigma transcription via induction of serum response factor (SRF), leading to MDM2 stabilization and subsequent p53 degradation. We observed similar results in the livers of mice treated with HGF. In humans, we found SRF and Enigma coexpressed with MDM2 but not p53 in several liver and stomach tumors. Finally, we showed that Enigma promoted cell survival and chemoresistance by suppressing p53-mediated apoptosis in both cell lines and a mouse xenograft model. Our findings suggest a role for Enigma in tumorigenesis and uncover a mechanism whereby mitogens attenuate p53 antiproliferative activity through an SRF/Enigma/MDM2 pathway.

APC/C(Cdc20) targets E2F1 for degradation in prometaphase

The mechanisms that control E2F-1 activity are complex. We previously showed that Chk1 and Chk2 are required for E2F1 stabilization and p73 target gene induction following DNA damage. To gain further insight into the processes regulating E2F1 protein stability, we focused our investigation on the mechanisms responsible for regulating E2F1 turnover. Here we show that E2F1 is a substrate of the anaphase promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C), a ubiquitin ligase that plays an important role in cell cycle progression. Ectopic expression of the APC/C activators Cdh1 and Cdc20 reduced the levels of co-expressed E2F-1 protein. Co-expression of DP1 with E2F1 blocked APC/C-induced E2F1 degradation, suggesting that the E2F1/DP1 heterodimer is protected from APC/C regulation. Following Cdc20 knockdown, E2F1 levels increased and remained stable in extracts over a time course, indicating that APC/C(Cdc20) is a primary regulator of E2F1 stability in vivo. Moreover, cell synchronization experiments showed that siRNA directed against Cdc20 induced an accumulation of E2F1 protein in prometaphase cells. These data suggest that APC/C(Cdc20) specifically targets E2F1 for degradation in early mitosis and reveal a novel mechanism for limiting free E2F1 levels in cells, failure of which may compromise cell survival and/or homeostasis.

Phosphatases in the cellular response to DNA damage

In the last fifteen years, rapid progress has been made in delineating the cellular response to DNA damage. The DNA damage response network is composed of a large number of proteins with different functions that detect and signal the presence of DNA damage in order to coordinate DNA repair with a variety of cellular processes, notably cell cycle progression. This signal, which radiates from the chromatin template, is driven primarily by phosphorylation events, mainly on serine and threonine residues. While we have accumulated detailed information about kinases and their substrates our understanding of the role of phosphatases in the DNA damage response is still preliminary. Identifying the phosphatases and their regulation will be instrumental to obtain a complete picture of the dynamics of the DNA damage response. Here we give an overview of the DNA damage response in mammalian cells and then review the data on the role of different phosphatases and discuss their biological relevance.

Turning the RING domain protein MdmX into an active ubiquitin-protein ligase

The related RING domain proteins MdmX and Mdm2 are best known for their role as negative regulators of the tumor suppressor p53. However, although Mdm2 functions as a ubiquitin ligase for p53, MdmX does not have appreciable ubiquitin ligase activity. In this study, we performed a mutational analysis of the RING domain of MdmX, and we identified two distinct regions that, when replaced by the respective regions of Mdm2, turn MdmX into an active ubiquitin ligase for p53. Mdm2 and MdmX form homodimers as well as heterodimers with each other. One of the regions identified localizes to the dimer interface indicating that subtle conformational changes in this region either affect dimer stability and/or the interaction with the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme UbcH5b. The second region contains the cryptic nucleolar localization signal of Mdm2 but is also assumed to be involved in the interaction with UbcH5b. Here, we show that this region has a significant impact on the ability of respective MdmX mutants to functionally interact with UbcH5b in vitro supporting the notion that this region serves two distinct functional purposes, nucleolar localization and ubiquitin ligase activity. Finally, evidence is provided to suggest that the RING domain of Mdm2 not only binds to UbcH5b but also acts as an allosteric activator of UbcH5b.

The C terminus of p53 binds the N-terminal domain of MDM2

The p53 tumor suppressor interacts with its negative regulator Mdm2 via the former's N-terminal region and core domain, yet the extreme p53 C-terminal region contains lysine residues ubiquitinated by Mdm2 and can bear post-translational modifications that inhibit Mdm2-p53 association. We show that the Mdm2-p53 interaction is decreased upon deletion, mutation or acetylation of the p53 C terminus. Mdm2 decreases the association of full-length but not C-terminally deleted p53 with a DNA target sequence in vitro and in cells. Further, using multiple approaches, we show that a peptide from the p53 C terminus directly binds the Mdm2 N terminus in vitro. We also show that p300-acetylated p53 inefficiently binds Mdm2 in vitro, and Nutlin-3 treatment induces C-terminal modification(s) of p53 in cells, explaining the low efficiency of Nutlin-3 in dissociating p53-MDM2 in vitro.

Deconstructing nucleotide binding activity of the Mdm2 RING domain

Mdm2, a central negative regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor, possesses a Really Interesting New Gene (RING) domain within its C-terminus. In addition to E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, the Mdm2 RING preferentially binds adenine base nucleotides, and such binding leads to a conformational change in the Mdm2 C-terminus. Here, we present further biochemical analysis of the nucleotide–Mdm2 interaction. We have found that MdmX, an Mdm2 family member with high sequence homology, binds adenine nucleotides with similar affinity and specificity as Mdm2, suggesting that residues involved in nucleotide binding may be conserved between the two proteins and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binding may have similar functional consequences for both Mdm family members. By generating and testing a series of proteins with deletions and substitution mutations within the Mdm2 RING, we mapped the specific adenine nucleotide binding region of Mdm2 to residues 429–484, encompassing the minimal RING domain. Using a series of ATP derivatives, we demonstrate that phosphate coordination by the Mdm2 P-loop contributes to, but is not primarily responsible for, ATP binding. Additionally, we have identified the 2′ and 3′ hydroxyls of the ribose and the C6 amino group of the adenine base moiety as being essential for binding.

Smad ubiquitylation regulatory factor 1/2 (Smurf1/2) promotes p53 degradation by stabilizing the E3 ligase MDM2

The tumor suppressor p53 protein is tightly regulated by a ubiquitin-proteasomal degradation mechanism. Several E3 ubiquitin ligases, including MDM2 (mouse double minute 2), have been reported to play an essential role in the regulation of p53 stability. However, it remains unclear how the activity of these E3 ligases is regulated. Here, we show that the HECT-type E3 ligase Smurf1/2 (Smad ubiquitylation regulatory factor 1/2) promotes p53 degradation by enhancing the activity of the E3 ligase MDM2. We provide evidence that the role of Smurf1/2 on the p53 stability is not dependent on the E3 activity of Smurf1/2 but rather is dependent on the activity of MDM2. We find that Smurf1/2 stabilizes MDM2 by enhancing the heterodimerization of MDM2 with MDMX, during which Smurf1/2 interacts with MDM2 and MDMX. We finally provide evidence that Smurf1/2 regulates apoptosis through p53. To our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate that Smurf1/2 functions as a factor to stabilize MDM2 protein rather than as a direct E3 ligase in regulation of p53 degradation.

Mechanism of p53 stabilization by ATM after DNA damage

p53 suppresses tumor development by responding to unauthorized cell proliferation, growth factor or nutrient deprivation, and DNA damage. Distinct pathways have been identified that cause p53 activation, including ARF-dependent response to oncogene activation, ribosomal protein-mediated response to abnormal rRNA synthesis, and ATM-dependent response to DNA damage. Elucidating the mechanisms of these signaling events are critical for understanding tumor suppression by p53 and development of novel cancer therapeutics. More than a decade of research has established the ATM kinase as a key molecule that activates p53 after DNA damage. Our recent study revealed that ATM phosphorylation of MDM2 is likely to be the key step in causing p53 stabilization. Upon activation by ionizing irradiation, ATM phosphorylates MDM2 on multiple sites near its RING domain. These modifications inhibit the ability of MDM2 to poly-ubiquitinate p53, thus leading to its stabilization. MDM2 phosphorylation does not inactivate its E3 ligase activity per se, since MDM2 self-ubiquitination and MDMX ubiquitination functions are retained. The selective inhibition of p53 poly-ubiquitination is accomplished through disrupting MDM2 oligomerization that may provide a scaffold for processive elongation of poly ubiquitin chains. These findings suggest a novel model of p53 activation and a general mechanism of E3 ligase regulation by phosphorylation.

The p53 orchestra: Mdm2 and Mdmx set the tone

The activities of p53 cover diverse aspects of cell biology, including cell cycle control, apoptosis, metabolism, fertility, differentiation and cellular reprogramming. Although loss of p53 function engenders tumor susceptibility, hyperactivation of p53 is lethal. Therefore, p53 activity must be strictly regulated to maintain normal tissue homeostasis. Critical for the control of p53 function are its two main negative regulators: Mdm2 and Mdmx. Recent reports have provided insight into the complex mechanisms that regulate these two proteins and have revealed novel functions for each. Here, we review and evaluate models of Mdm2- and Mdmx-dependent regulation of p53 activity. Both Mdm2 and Mdmx receive input from numerous signaling pathways and interact with many proteins in addition to p53. Therefore, we also consider roles for Mdm2 and Mdmx in additional cancer-related networks, including Notch signaling and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.

MDM2 promotes proteasomal degradation of p21Waf1 via a conformation change

MDM2 plays a major role in cancer development and progression via both p53-dependent and -independent functions. One of its p53-independent functions is the induction of the ubiquitin-independent proteasomal degradation of p21(Waf1). The present study was designed to characterize the mechanism(s) by which MDM2 induces p21(Waf1) degradation. We first determined the regions of MDM2 required for p21(Waf1) degradation using pulldown assays and Western blotting and then examined the mechanisms using limited proteolysis and fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays. We found that the MDM2-p21(Waf1) interaction depended on the central domain of MDM2 and that nuclear localization of both proteins was necessary for p21(Waf1) degradation. Specifically, amino acids 226-250 of MDM2 were required for p21(Waf1) binding and degradation, and amino acids 251-260 were necessary for p21(Waf1) degradation. The latter region induced a conformation change in p21(Waf1), increasing its interaction with the C8 subunit of the proteasome, leading to its degradation. When MDM2 lacked either segment (aa 226-250 or aa 251-260), its capacity to promote p21(Waf1) degradation and cell cycle progression was significantly reduced. In summary, the present study elucidated a previously unknown mechanism by which MDM2 promotes the degradation of an intact protein (p21(Waf1)) through an ubiquitin-independent proteasomal degradation pathway. Because MDM2 also increases the degradation of other proteins in a ubiquitin-independent manner, this mechanism may underlie part of its tumorigenic properties.

Mdm2-mediated ubiquitylation: p53 and beyond

The really interesting genes (RING)-finger-containing oncoprotein, Mdm2, is a promising drug target for cancer therapy. A key Mdm2 function is to promote ubiquitylation and proteasomal-dependent degradation of the tumor suppressor protein p53. Recent reports provide novel important insights into Mdm2-mediated regulation of p53 and how the physical and functional interactions between these two proteins are regulated. Moreover, a p53-independent role of Mdm2 has recently been confirmed by genetic data. These advances and their potential implications for the development of new cancer therapeutic strategies form the focus of this review.

The SWI/SNF protein BAF60b is ubiquitinated through a signalling process involving Rac GTPase and the RING finger protein Unkempt

The SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complexes are important regulators of transcription; they consist of large multisubunit assemblies containing either Brm or Brg1 as the catalytic ATPase subunit and a variable subset of approximately 10 Brg/Brm-associated factors (BAF). Among these factors, BAF60 proteins (BAF60a, BAF60b or BAF60c), which are found in most complexes, are thought to bridge interactions between transcription factors and SWI/SNF complexes. We report here on a Rac-dependent process leading to BAF60b ubiquitination. Using two-hybrid cloning procedures, we identified a mammalian RING finger protein homologous to drosophila Unkempt as a new partner of the activated form of RacGTPases and demonstrated that mammalian Unkempt specifically binds to BAF60b and promotes its ubiquitination in a Rac1-dependent manner. Immunofluorescence studies demonstrated that Unkempt is primarily localized in the cytoplasmic compartment, but has the ability to shuttle between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, suggesting that the Rac- and Unkempt-dependent process leading to BAF60b ubiquitination takes place in the nuclear compartment. Ubiquitinated forms of BAF60b were found to accumulate upon treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG132, indicating that BAF60b ubiquitination is of the degradative type and could regulate the level of BAF60b in SWI/SNF complexes. Our observations support the new idea of a direct connection between Rac signalling and chromatin remodelling.

ATM activates p53 by regulating MDM2 oligomerization and E3 processivity

Rapid activation of p53 by ionizing irradiation is a classic DNA damage response mediated by the ATM kinase. However, the major signalling target and mechanism that lead to p53 stabilization are unknown. We show in this report that ATM induces p53 accumulation by phosphorylating the ubiquitin E3 ligase MDM2. Multiple ATM target sites near the MDM2 RING domain function in a redundant manner to provide robust DNA damage signalling. In the absence of DNA damage, the MDM2 RING domain forms oligomers that mediate p53 poly ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Phosphorylation by ATM inhibits RING domain oligomerization, specifically suppressing p53 poly ubiquitination. Blocking MDM2 phosphorylation by alanine substitution of all six phosphorylation sites results in constitutive degradation of p53 after DNA damage. These observations show that ATM controls p53 stability by regulating MDM2 RING domain oligomerization and E3 ligase processivity. Promoting or disrupting E3 oligomerization may be a general mechanism by which signalling kinases regulate ubiquitination reactions, and a potential target for therapeutic intervention.

Targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome system to activate wild-type p53 for cancer therapy

Ubiquitination plays a key role in regulating the tumour suppressor p53. It targets p53 for degradation by the 26S proteasome. The ubiquitin pathway also regulates the activity and localisation of p53. Ubiquitination requires ubiquitin-activating and -conjugating enzymes and ubiquitin ligases. In addition, ubiquitination can be reversed by the action of deubiquitinating enzymes. Here we give an overview of the role of components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in the regulation of p53 and review progress in targeting these proteins to activate wild-type p53 for the treatment of cancer.

Small-molecule inhibitors of MDM2 as new anticancer therapeutics

It has long been known that traditional anticancer radio- and chemotherapies in part work through direct or indirect activation of the p53 tumour suppressor pathway. However, many of these strategies are nonselective and genotoxic. The emerging understanding of the pathways that regulate p53 has led to the notion that it should be possible to activate the p53 pathway in ways that are inherently nongenotoxic. Important targets for pharmacological interference in this respect are MDM2 and MDMX, key negative regulators of p53. Genetic and pharmacologic studies suggest that blocking the physical interaction of these proteins with p53, or inhibiting the catalytic role of MDM2 in tagging p53 for proteasomal degradation, both of which lead to an increase in the transcriptional activity of p53, may indeed be an efficient and safe way to eradicate tumour cells that retain wild-type p53. Here we review the rationale for such strategies, as well as the current state in the discovery and development of drugs that reactivate p53 by inhibiting its inhibitors MDM2 and MDMX. The first compounds that have been shown in model systems to be able selectively to kill cancer cells in this way are now entering clinical trials and the promise of MDM2 inhibitors as a new therapeutic anticancer modality should therefore become clear in the not-too-distant future.

Signaling to p53: ribosomal proteins find their way

Inherently disparate cell growth and division, which are intimately coupled through a delicate network of intracellular and extracellular signaling, require ribosomal biogenesis. A number of events imparting instability to ribosomal biogenesis can cause nucleolar stress. In response to this stress, several ribosomal proteins bind to MDM2 and block MDM2-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation, resulting in p53-dependent cell cycle arrest. By doing so, the ribosomal proteins play a crucial role in connecting deregulated cell growth with inhibition of cell division. The ribosomal protein-MDM2-p53 signaling pathway provides a molecular switch that may constitute a surveillance network monitoring the integrity of ribosomal biogenesis.

Suppression of p53 activity by Siva1

The tumor suppressor p53 induces potent anti-proliferative responses in stressed cells; in unstressed cells this ability of p53 is restrained by Hdm2. Expression of Hdm2 is also induced by p53, thereby establishing feedback inhibition. Regulation of the p53-Hdm2 interaction and the feedback inhibition of p53 are not well understood. Here, we show that the p53-Hdm2 interaction in unstressed cells is promoted by Siva1, which, like Hdm2, is the product of a p53 target gene. Siva1 binds to both p53 and Hdm2 through distinct regions and enhances Hdm2-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation. Siva1 strongly inhibits p53-mediated gene expression and apoptosis. In xenograft mouse models, downregulation of Siva1 markedly inhibits tumor formation because of the activation of p53. On DNA damage, the interactions of Siva1 with both p53 and Hdm2 are diminished. The function of Siva1 seems to be related to its ability to form a homo-oligomer as the oligomerization defective splicing variant Siva2 fails to de-stabilize p53. These results identify Siva1 as an important adaptor promoting p53 degradation through Hdm2. Siva1 may be part of the negative feedback loop that inhibits p53 activity at the end of a non-lethal stress response.

Differential regulation of CFTRDeltaF508 degradation by ubiquitin ligases gp78 and Hrd1

The most common mutation associated with cystic fibrosis is the deletion of phenylalanine 508 of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTRDeltaF508). This mutation renders otherwise functional protein susceptible to ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and prevents CFTR from exiting the ER and trafficking to the plasma membrane. In this study, we demonstrate that RNAi-mediated silencing of gp78, an established ubiquitin ligase (E3) involved in ERAD, leads to accumulation of CFTRDeltaF508 protein in cells. gp78 facilitates the degradation of CFTRDeltaF508 by enhancing both its ubiquitination and interaction with p97/VCP. SVIP, which is the inhibitor of gp78, causes accumulation of CFTRDeltaF508. We showed that endogenous gp78 co-immunoprecipitates with Hrd1. Furthermore, the results indicate that silencing the expression of another ERAD E3, Hrd1, leads to stabilization of gp78 and decline in gp78 ubiquitination; thereby enhancing CFTRDeltaF508 degradation. The results support that gp78 is an E3 targeting CFTRDeltaF508 for degradation and Hrd1 inhibits CFTRDeltaF508 degradation by acting as an E3 for gp78.

[Progress in regulation of activity and stability of ubiquitin protein ligase MDM2]

The ubiquitin protein ligase (E3) MDM2 (Murine double minute 2) possesses oncogenic activities. Overexpression of this protein enhances degradation and inactivation of the tumor suppressor p53. At least 7% of all human tumors exhibit inappropriate amplification of mdm2, whereas p53 gene remains in its wild-type configuration. This indicates that MDM2 may function in the p53-independent manner to promote tumorigenesis. Considering the critical role of MDM2, this review summarizes the current mechanisms and progress on MDM2 regulation in levels of gene control, mRNA transcription, post-translational modification, and interaction proteins.

A polymorphic variant in human MDM4 associates with accelerated age of onset of estrogen receptor negative breast cancer

Murine double minute 4 (MDM4) shares significant structural homology with murine double minute 2 (MDM2) and interacts and regulates transcriptional activity of the tumor suppressor p53. In tumors with wild-type p53, there is often overexpression of MDM2 or MDM4 leading to functional inactivation of p53. A single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the promoter of human MDM2 (SNP309) was shown to associate with increased MDM2 expression and increased risk of cancer. This study evaluated the association of a SNP in human MDM4 (C>T) with age of onset of breast cancer in two independent cohorts. In cohort 1 of 675 patients, the average age of diagnosis for women with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and ER-negative breast cancers was 53.2 and 48 years, respectively. In this cohort, homozygous variant (TT) carriers developed ER-negative carcinomas at an earlier age than homozygous wild-type (CC) or heterozygous (TC) such that the age at diagnosis was accelerated by 5.0 years (P = 0.018). This association was validated in a second cohort of breast cancer patients (n = 148), where TT carriers with ER-negative cancer developed the disease 3.8 years earlier than CC carriers (P = 0.006). The effect was more pronounced in Caucasians with ER-negative ductal carcinomas with TT homozygotes developing disease 7.5 years (P = 0.031) and 6.2 years (P = 7 x 10(-5)) earlier than CC carriers in cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. No association was seen in ER-positive ductal cancers suggesting that the SNP in MDM4 only has a functional association in ER-negative breast cancer.

A comprehensive framework of E2-RING E3 interactions of the human ubiquitin-proteasome system

Covalent attachment of ubiquitin to substrates is crucial to protein degradation, transcription regulation and cell signalling. Highly specific interactions between ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (E2) and ubiquitin protein E3 ligases fulfil essential roles in this process. We performed a global yeast-two hybrid screen to study the specificity of interactions between catalytic domains of the 35 human E2s with 250 RING-type E3s. Our analysis showed over 300 high-quality interactions, uncovering a large fraction of new E2–E3 pairs. Both within the E2 and the E3 cohorts, several members were identified that are more versatile in their interaction behaviour than others. We also found that the physical interactions of our screen compare well with reported functional E2–E3 pairs in in vitro ubiquitination experiments. For validation we confirmed the interaction of several versatile E2s with E3s in in vitro protein interaction assays and we used mutagenesis to alter the E3 interactions of the E2 specific for K63 linkages, UBE2N(Ubc13), towards the K48-specific UBE2D2(UbcH5B). Our data provide a detailed, genome-wide overview of binary E2–E3 interactions of the human ubiquitination system.

Ribosomal protein S7 is both a regulator and a substrate of MDM2

MDM2 associates with ribosomal protein S7, and this interaction is required to inhibit MDM2's E3 ligase activity, leading to stabilization of MDM2 and p53. Notably, the MDM2 homolog MDMX facilitates the inhibition of MDM2 E3 ligase activity by S7. Further, ablation of S7 inhibits MDM2 and p53 accumulation induced by different stress signals in some cell types. Thus, ribosomal/nucleolar stress is likely a key integrating event in DNA damage signaling to p53. Interestingly, S7 is itself a substrate for MDM2 E3 ligase activity both in vitro and in vivo. An S7-ubiquitin fusion protein (S7-Ub) selectively inhibits MDM2 degradation of p53 and is unaffected by MDMX. S7-Ub promotes apoptosis to a greater extent than S7 alone. This indicates that MDM2 ubiquitination of S7 is involved in sustaining the p53 response. Thus, S7 functions as both effector and affector of MDM2 to ensure a proper cellular response to different stress signals.

A B-box 2 surface patch important for TRIM5alpha self-association, capsid binding avidity, and retrovirus restriction

TRIM5alpha is a tripartite motif (TRIM) protein that consists of RING, B-box 2, coiled-coil, and B30.2(SPRY) domains. The TRIM5alpha(rh) protein from rhesus monkeys recognizes the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) capsid as it enters the host cell and blocks virus infection prior to reverse transcription. HIV-1-restricting ability can be eliminated by disruption of the B-box 2 domain. Changes in the TRIM5alpha(rh) B-box 2 domain have been associated with alterations in TRIM5alpha(rh) turnover, the formation of cytoplasmic bodies and higher-order oligomerization. We present here the nuclear magnetic resonance structure of the TRIM5 B-box 2 domain and identify an unusual hydrophobic patch (cluster 1) on the domain surface. Alteration of cluster 1 or the flanking arginine 121 resulted in various degrees of inactivation of HIV-1 restriction, in some cases depending on compensatory changes in other nearby charged residues. For this panel of TRIM5alpha(rh) B-box 2 mutants, inhibition of HIV-1 infection was strongly correlated with higher-order self-association and binding affinity for capsid complexes but not with TRIM5alpha(rh) half-life or the formation of cytoplasmic bodies. Thus, promoting cooperative TRIM5alpha(rh) interactions with the HIV-1 capsid represents a major mechanism whereby the B-box 2 domain potentiates HIV-1 restriction.

RING domain E3 ubiquitin ligases

E3 ligases confer specificity to ubiquitination by recognizing target substrates and mediating transfer of ubiquitin from an E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme to substrate. The activity of most E3s is specified by a RING domain, which binds to an E2 approximately ubiquitin thioester and activates discharge of its ubiquitin cargo. E2-E3 complexes can either monoubiquitinate a substrate lysine or synthesize polyubiquitin chains assembled via different lysine residues of ubiquitin. These modifications can have diverse effects on the substrate, ranging from proteasome-dependent proteolysis to modulation of protein function, structure, assembly, and/or localization. Not surprisingly, RING E3-mediated ubiquitination can be regulated in a number of ways. RING-based E3s are specified by over 600 human genes, surpassing the 518 protein kinase genes. Accordingly, RING E3s have been linked to the control of many cellular processes and to multiple human diseases. Despite their critical importance, our knowledge of the physiological partners, biological functions, substrates, and mechanism of action for most RING E3s remains at a rudimentary stage.

Increased radioresistance and accelerated B cell lymphomas in mice with Mdmx mutations that prevent modifications by DNA-damage-activated kinases

Mdmx is a critical negative regulator of the p53 pathway that is stoichiometrically limiting in some tissues. Posttranslational modification and degradation of Mdmx after DNA damage have been proposed to be essential for p53 activation. We tested this model in vivo, where critical stoichiometric relationships are preserved. We generated an Mdmx mutant mouse in which three conserved serines (S341, S367, S402) targeted by DNA-damage-activated kinases were replaced by alanines to investigate whether modifications of these residues are important for Mdmx degradation and p53 activation. The mutant mice were remarkably resistant to radiation, and very susceptible to Myc-induced lymphomagenesis. These data demonstrate that Mdmx downregulation is crucial for effective p53-mediated radiation responses and tumor suppression in vivo.

Cytoplasmic tethering is involved in synergistic inhibition of p53 by Mdmx and Mdm2

The mdm2 and mdmx oncogenes play essential yet nonredundant roles in synergistic inactivatiosn of p53. However, the biochemical mechanism by which Mdmx synergizes with Mdm2 to inhibit p53 function remains obscure. Here we demonstrate that, using nonphosphorylatable mutants of Mdmx, the cooperative inhibition of p53 by Mdmx and Mdm2 was associated with cytoplasmic localization of p53, and with an increase of the interaction of Mdmx to p53 and Mdm2 in the cytoplasm. In addition, the Mdmx mutant cooperates with Mdm2 to induce ubiquitination of p53 at C-terminal lysine residues, and the integrity of the C-terminal lysines was partly required for the cooperative inhibition. The expression of subcellular localization mutants of Mdmx revealed that subcellular localization of Mdmx dictated p53 localization, and that cytoplasmic Mdmx tethered p53 in the cytoplasm and efficiently inhibited p53 activity. RNAi-mediated inhibition of Mdmx or introduction of the nuclear localization mutant of Mdmx reduced cytoplasmic retention of p53 in neuroblastoma cells, in which cytoplasmic sequestration of p53 is involved in its inactivation. Our data indicate that cytoplasmic tethering of p53 mediated by Mdmx contributes to p53 inactivation in some types of cancer cells.

Modes of p53 regulation

The traditional view of p53 activation includes three steps-p53 stabilization, DNA binding, and transcriptional activation. However, recent studies indicate that each step of p53 activation is more complex than originally anticipated. Moreover, both genetic studies in mice and in vitro studies with purified components suggest that the classical model may not be sufficient to explain all aspects of p53 activation in vivo. To reconcile these differences, we propose that antirepression, the release of p53 from repression by factors such as Mdm2 and MdmX, is a key step in the physiological activation of p53.

Functions of p53 in metabolism and invasion

The p53 protein is an important tumour suppressor that is inactivated in many human cancers. Understanding how p53 is regulated and the downstream consequences of p53 function is helping us to devise novel therapies based on the reactivation of p53. Such approaches may be useful in the treatment of cancer, but a growing understanding of a role for p53 in other conditions suggests that modulation of p53 may have broader applications.

Regulation of the E3 ubiquitin ligase activity of MDM2 by an N-terminal pseudo-substrate motif

The tumor suppressor p53 has evolved a MDM2-dependent feedback loop that promotes p53 protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. MDM2 is an E3-RING containing ubiquitin ligase that catalyzes p53 ubiquitination by a dual-site mechanism requiring ligand occupation of its N-terminal hydrophobic pocket, which then stabilizes MDM2 binding to the ubiquitination signal in the DNA-binding domain of p53. A unique pseudo-substrate motif or "lid" in MDM2 is adjacent to its N-terminal hydrophobic pocket, and we have evaluated the effects of the flexible lid on the dual-site ubiquitination reaction mechanism catalyzed by MDM2. Deletion of this pseudo-substrate motif promotes MDM2 protein thermoinstability, indicating that the site can function as a positive regulatory element. Phospho-mimetic mutation in the pseudo-substrate motif at codon 17 (MDM2(S17D)) stabilizes the binding of MDM2 towards two distinct peptide docking sites within the p53 tetramer and enhances p53 ubiquitination. Molecular modeling orientates the phospho-mimetic pseudo-substrate motif in equilibrium over a charged surface patch on the MDM2 at Arg(97)/Lys(98), and mutation of these residues to the MDM4 equivalent reverses the activating effect of the phospho-mimetic mutation on MDM2 function. These data highlight the ability of the pseudo-substrate motif to regulate the allosteric interaction between the N-terminal hydrophobic pocket of MDM2 and its central acidic domain, which stimulates the E3 ubiquitin ligase function of MDM2. This model of MDM2 regulation implicates an as yet undefined lid-kinase as a component of pro-oncogenic pathways that stimulate the E3 ubiquitin ligase function of MDM2 in cells.

Role of Mdm2 acid domain interactions in recognition and ubiquitination of the transcription factor IRF-2

Mdm2 (murine double minute 2)-mediated ubiquitination of the p53 tumour suppressor requires interaction of the ligase at two distinct binding sites that form general multiprotein-docking sites for the p53 protein. The first Mdm2-binding site resides in the transactivation domain of p53 and is an allosteric effector site for Mdm2-mediated p53 ubiquitination; the second site requires the acid domain of Mdm2 to recognize a 'ubiquitination signal' within p53's DNA-binding core. In order to expand on fundamental requirements for a protein to function as an Mdm2 substrate and the role of the acid domain in recognition, we have carried out a bioinformatics search for open reading frames that have homology with the Mdm2-docking sites in p53. IRF-2 [IFN (interferon) regulatory factor-2], an IFN-regulated transcription factor, has been identified as an Mdm2-binding protein and substrate requiring interactions with both the hydrophobic pocket and the acid domain of Mdm2. Mutation of either of the two Mdm2-binding sites on IRF-2 can attenuate substrate ubiquitination, confirming the requirement of a dual-site substrate interaction mechanism. Ligands that bind to the hydrophobic pocket are not sufficient to inhibit Mdm2 E3-ligase activity. Rather, acid domain-binding ligands act as E3-ligase inhibitors, lending additional support to the idea that the acid domain of Mdm2 is key to understanding its mechanism of action. The ability of Mdm2 and IRF-2 to form a complex in cells complements the biochemical assays and together establishes a novel substrate with which to develop insights into E3-ubiquitin ligase-substrate interactions in vitro and in cells.

Ubiquitin-mediated regulation of apoptosis

Ubiquitin is a protein modifier that is conjugated to target proteins either as a single moiety or as polyubiquitin chains. Over the past several years, an increasing number of ubiquitin ligases and ubiquitin-deconjugating enzymes have been identified; these modulate cell survival by degradative and non-degradative means. Mutations that affect ubiquitin-mediated signalling are tightly linked to various human pathologies including tumorigenesis. Unravelling how the ubiquitin-signal is conjugated, edited and 'read' is crucial to understanding cellular processes such as endocytic trafficking, NF-kappaB signalling, gene expression, DNA repair and apoptosis. In this review, we summarize recent advances that start to elucidate how the ubiquitin message is used as a versatile tool to regulate apoptosis, for example in the conjugation of ubiquitin to caspases. This results in steric interference with substrate entry and allosteric conformational impairment of the catalytic pocket of the caspase.

Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen 3C augments Mdm2-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation by deubiquitinating Mdm2

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen 3C (EBNA3C) is one of the essential latent antigens for primary B-cell transformation. Previous studies established that EBNA3C facilitates degradation of several vital cell cycle regulators, including the retinoblastoma (pRb) and p27(KIP) proteins, by recruitment of the SCF(Skp2) E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. EBNA3C was also shown to be ubiquitinated at its N-terminal residues. Furthermore, EBNA3C can bind to and be degraded in vitro by purified 20S proteasomes. Surprisingly, in lymphoblastoid cell lines, EBNA3C is extremely stable, and the mechanism for this stability is unknown. In this report we show that EBNA3C can function as a deubiquitination enzyme capable of deubiquitinating itself in vitro as well as in vivo. Functional mapping using deletion and point mutational analysis showed that both the N- and C-terminal domains of EBNA3C contribute to the deubiquitination activity. We also show that EBNA3C efficiently deubiquitinates Mdm2, an important cellular proto-oncogene, which is known to be overexpressed in several human cancers. The data presented here further demonstrate that the N-terminal domain of EBNA3C can bind to the acidic domain of Mdm2. Additionally, the N-terminal domain of EBNA3C strongly stabilizes Mdm2. Importantly, EBNA3C simultaneously binds to both Mdm2 and p53 and can form a stable ternary complex; however, in the presence of p53 the binding affinity of Mdm2 toward EBNA3C was significantly reduced, suggesting that p53 and Mdm2 might share a common overlapping domain of EBNA3C. We also showed that EBNA3C enhances the intrinsic ubiquitin ligase activity of Mdm2 toward p53, which in turn facilitated p53 ubiquitination and degradation. Thus, manipulation of the oncoprotein Mdm2 by EBNA3C potentially provides a favorable environment for transformation and proliferation of EBV-infected cells.

Targeting Mdm2 and Mdmx in cancer therapy: better living through medicinal chemistry?

Genomic and proteomic profiling of human tumor samples and tumor-derived cell lines are essential for the realization of personalized therapy in oncology. Identification of the changes required for tumor initiation or maintenance will likely provide new targets for small-molecule and biological therapeutics. For example, inactivation of the p53 tumor suppressor pathway occurs in most human cancers. Although this can be due to frank p53 gene mutation, almost half of all cancers retain the wild-type p53 allele, indicating that the pathway is disabled by other means. Alternate mechanisms include deletion or epigenetic inactivation of the p53-positive regulator arf, methylation of the p53 promoter, or elevated expression of the p53 regulators Mdm2 and Mdmx. This review discusses current models of p53 regulation by Mdm2 and Mdmx and presents the rationale for design of future Mdmx-specific therapeutics based on our knowledge of its structure and biological functions.