Genome-wide analysis of the WW domain-containing protein genes in silkworm and their expansion in eukaryotes

Exploring the role of PMEPA1 in gastric cancer

Although there are several treatments available for gastric cancer (GC), the prognosis of the disease is still poor due to many factors, such as late diagnosis and tumor heterogeneity. To identify potential therapeutic targets, bioinformatics techniques and clinical sample validation were employed and prostate transmembrane protein androgen induced 1 (PMEPA1) was selected for further study. In the present study, we found that elevated PMEPA1 expression correlates with a worse prognosis and weaker anti-tumor immunity in GC patients. Moreover, our study showed that PMEPA1 not only influences cell proliferation, clone formation, invasion, and migration in vitro, but also plays an important role in GC progression in vivo. Mechanically, PMEPA1 exerts its oncogenic effects through activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, PMEPA1 is a potential target for treating GC effectively.

BAG3-mediated proteostasis at a glance

Cellular and organismal survival depend on the ability to maintain the proteome, even under conditions that threaten protein integrity. BCL2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) is essential for protein homeostasis (proteostasis) in stressed cells. Owing to its multi-domain structure, it engages in diverse processes that are crucial for proteome maintenance. BAG3 promotes the activity of molecular chaperones, sequesters and concentrates misfolded proteins, initiates autophagic disposal, and balances transcription, translation and degradation. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we discuss the functions of this multi-functional proteostasis tool with a focus on mechanical stress protection and describe the importance of BAG3 for human physiology and pathophysiology.